I have not read the first book in the series, so I feel i cannot give this book a far review. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

Violet's world has never been perfect, but it takes a turn for the worse when a visit to her grandmother discloses that the local baron is stealing from the local villagers to fill his own pockets. She begins writing to the king, to inform him, but the letter is found when their own house is invaded by the baron's men. And when she's dragged before the baron, things get still worse when he takes a most unaccountable interest in her birth mother. Sir Merek, one of the baron's men, proves himself an honest man and eager to help her, but can even he save her, or will he only get himself killed? What does the baron want of her, and can she and Merek bring him to justice to save her family and friends?

I've enjoyed previous books in the series and thought this sounded interesting too - and while not unputdownable, it did hold my interest well enough through most of the book. Unfortunately, as I got to the last few chapters, something changed and I found myself on the outside, watching somewhat detachedly as they got their well-deserved happy ending. So I'm left feeling somewhat ambivalent. I certainly didn't dislike it, but I didn't love it either - and some things about the story didn't feel like they quite held together (for example, it sound like the baron has been stealing for years, and yet Violet somehow only just heard of it? and she seems to have most unrealistic ideas of what a girl in her position could achieve, too). Overall, I'd have to say that it really wasn't quite my cup of tea, but it may well be exactly what others are looking for. May be better for a younger audience?

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really tried to give this book my time and effort, but to be fair there were a lot more books that I would rather be reading than this one. The whole premise of a fairytale retelling with Christian aspects intrigued me from the beginning, but the actual execution did not impress me in any way. I think it was partially because the writing was geared toward a younger audience of young adult readers (middle school). I am a college student who enjoys reading young adult fiction but unfortunately, this one did not make the cut for me. With that being said, I think a middle school audience would enjoy this story thoroughly.

Violet Lambton was adopted when young, and content with her happy small-town life. The most dramatic thing she has is the vivid red cloak her grandmother gifted her. When her grandmother is robbed by Baron Dunham, Violet is determined to end the baron’s mis­treatment. Sir Merek is a knight in the service of Baron Dunham, only learning of the baron’s treachery when he meets Violet. Determined to serve the kingdom and not a wicked baron, he dares to expose the deceitfulness to the king. Violet discovers a secret that shakes the foundation of her world and must trust Merek in his quest to expose the baron.

This is a Dericott Tale, a series that includes Court of Swans and Veil of Winter. These are linked books based on fairy tales, in that similar locations show up and there are cameos in the form of names you might recognize if you read prior books. Don't worry if you didn't! This one only mentions Dericott in passing, and it's not necessary to have read prior books. This one is inspired by Red Riding Hood, given Violet has the red cloak and visits her grandmother with a basket of food. She has learning and a strong desire for justice, leading her to speak out openly when everyone else is so afraid of the baron. Mare is heavy-handed when he sets out to discover the truth; he's so earnest and can't believe that other people aren't. They're quite the pair, with obstacles to their inevitable romance. We know the baron will do as he pleases, but they still believe in the law, justice, and God's benevolent will.

This is another fun medieval-style romance. Violet is very much not a shrinking violet, and Marek has a temper in the face of injustice and broken ideals. I really like her grandmother, a mix of serene and feisty, and we have glimpses of real depth in other side characters. While we know it's a romance, the novel keeps the reader on edge to see how it all ends well.

Violet of Burwelle dons her red cloak and visits her grandmother as often as she can. When Violet discovers her grandmother has been the victim of robbery at the hands of the local lord’s guards, she seeks justice. Enter Sir Merek of Dericott. As a new employee of Baron Dunham, he is angered when Violet accuses his new boss of robbing his poor tenants. Determined to uncover the truth, Violet and Sir Merek work together to bring justice to the local villagers. Will they pay the price with their lives? Find out in this engaging depiction of life during the time of England’s King Richard.

This wasn't what I expected from this author having loved other books written by her. I haven't read the other's in the series and didn't realise it was a YA story based on red riding hood which might have been my problem. This is a very clean/wholesome read which isn't a problem but the writing seemed overly simplistic at times and the character's didn't interest me or keep me hooked. One for the younger reader's I think. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This series has captured my heart and this book was no different. I loved this story, the character growth, the undertones of having faith in God, and the nods to little red riding hood.
Violet is a strong woman who stands up for what she believes in despite her fears and anxieties. Her growth in this book really felt encouraging to me as I read it. Although Violet faces some hard decisions and stressful and scary situations she continues forward with her love for her family and friends strengthening her, as well as her faith in God.
Merek may be a hot head as we read in previous books but I love how he works to control his temper. It's a great example to all of us that though we might have strong feelings we can bridle them and use them at the right times and places. The slow-burn of Merek falling for Violet was very sweet and I loved seeing him fall in love with a strong women.
The writing in this book was fantastic. I really enjoyed our side characters, the suspense of the situation with the Baron, and the resolution presented. I felt like the resolution was especially clever and it felt unique and it left me perfectly satisfied. The pacing of the book was really good, although I did feel like the resolution was satisfactory but just a tad rushed. I still loved it though, it was perfect for Merek and Violet.

Violet is stubborn, a trait which causes her to do things that are both courageous and risky. Her biggest undertaking comes when she resolves to speak out against the evil baron and his men. Along the way, Violet meets a knight known as Sir Merek, who shares her longing for justice. Throughout the story, there is a moving sense of mystery, as the reader is always questioning whether each individual is trustworthy. A mix of Robin Hood, Little Red Riding Hood, and the Disney movie "Cruella."
The book was overly romantic at the end which deducted a star from my rating.
However, there were several morals to be learned throughout the story such as the importance of family, speaking up for what is right even in the midst of danger, and seeking God's will and listening to his voice.

Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the chance to preview this book.

Cloak of Scarlet, a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, is a true YA Christian Historical Fairytale through and through. It was clean, faith-filled, fast-paced, and easy read. One of the most appropriate YA novels I have read. There was sweet romance, dangerous villains, good vs. evil plot, and of course, a well deserved HEA!

Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced copy, all opinions are my own.

Seeing as how this book is written for YA maybe that can account for the simple language, but I felt this book was missing depth. The story itself was good, but I found the writing to lack detail and it never drew me in, nor did I feel an emotional pull towards either of the main characters. I felt it was almost there, but there was missing information, as if the book was written but needed an emotional edit to take it the full distance.

This was my first book by this author, and I want to read more because I’ve heard good things about her. This book wasn’t what I expected (and you know what happens when you have expectations...), but I plan to read some of her others.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This fun, light story is fast paced with action that sweeps you in pretty quickly. Violet and Merek are interesting characters, and how could you not love Violet’s grandmother. Cloak of Scarlet is an imaginative retelling of the beloved Little Red Riding Hood fairytale. I really enjoy Melanie Dickerson’s writing. Although I am far from young I have enjoyed the whole Dericott Tale series listed as YA fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to read for my honest review.

Cloak of Scarlet is the fifth installment in Melanie Dickerson's well loved The Dericott Tales, and it's a (loose) retelling of little red riding hood. I haven't read too many adaptations of this particular fairytale, and I was intrigued at the idea of how the author was going to work this story frame into the medieval time period, and into the Dericott world..

While I will say that this didn't end up being my favorite novel by this author, I did think it was a wonderful story that captured my interest fairly early on, and kept me guessing as to how the plot was going to weave together to answer all my questions.

Violet and Merek are probably my least favorite couple from this series so far, but each of them did still have their redeeming qualities. I did also enjoy how much growth each of their characters show by the conclusion of the story. The secondary characters on the other hand I adored, especially Grandma and Sir Willmer, and I would love to see him be given his own story someday.

All in all, a charming, medieval era fairytale that loosely follows the classic red riding hood tale, while still giving readers an original story that focuses around romance, faith and friendship, and what it truly means to be a hero when we face devastating circumstances outside our control

Final Rating: 4/5.

While not as good as the first four books in the series, still a lovely read and I appreciated that it was clean, sweet and swoon worthy.

Thanks so much to Thomas Nelson for allowing me to advance read and review this one!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Thomas Nelson) via Netgalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

Ccloak of Scarlet is a sweet (loosley based) reimagining of Little Red Riding Hood.
Violet, the kind-hearted grandaughter that travels to visit her ill (yet spunky) grandmother with handmade baked goods. However, the wolf in this storyis personified as the Baron of Dunham. The Baron and his men have been stealing for his people.
In Dickerson fashion,the heroine (Violet) meets the hero(Sir Merek) and instantly distrusts him yet realizes,during her quest to expose the Baron, that Sir Merek is kind & just, thus falling in love.(much to the delight of her grandmother)
While this is the fifith instalment in the Dericott series, it would be plausable to read as a stand alone.
This is a very clean/wholesome read. The writing can be overly simplistic at times and quite transparent. However, as a Librarian, I am faced with providing recommendations to patrons. I am always confident to recommend this author to patrons looking for suggestions for young readers and reades preferring Christian authors. Dickerson is conssiten twith her content and approach in her writing,making her an excellent choice for those searching for an encouraging/ wholesome novel.

3/5

Another solid addition to the Dericott Tales series. Cloak of Scarlet is a (loose) retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. With Dickerson’s dependable story telling abilities, this story was fun and easy to read. The characters this time include Sir Merek, the feisty yet chivalrous Dericott brother, and a landowner’s daughter, Violet, named so for her violet eyes. In typical Dickerson fashion, these two are first wary of each other, then after an evil man has them questioning the way of the world, they eventually team up, and from there? Well, you’ll just have to read to find out.

As usual, I’m not the biggest fan of the overly-religious tones in Dickerson’s work, but I am glad to look past it to her delightful fairytale retellings. This book however was a little light on the retelling and heavy on the religious. Though Violet’s red cape made many appearances, there wasn’t much else to tie in Red Riding Hood (at least what I know of it). But altogether the novel was still enjoyable and can easily hold its own in the Dericott universe.

One more thing I particularly liked was the character of Sir Willmer. I found it hilarious whenever Merek thought of him. I guess you’ll have to read it to find out why ;)

I look forward to the next book! I’m hoping it’s Charles! Until then, thank you Melanie Dickerson~

This story is set in the late 1300's. Violet is passionate about helping those in need and is enraged when she learns coin has been stolen from widows, including her grandmother, as well as families already struggling. She had briefly met Sir Merek a couple weeks back and runs into him again, this time with another guard. He asks for directions to a different town and she lights into him about the Baron stealing from the people. He adamantly denies this but promises to look into it. The story progresses with this theme. Page turning story as we learn more about Violet as well as Sir Merek, one of the Dericott siblings.
A complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson via Net Galley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Cloak of Scarlet is book five of the Dericott Tales series. I have not read the other four, and I feel this can be read perfectly well as a standalone. It is set in the 14th century and features Sir Merek, a knight, and Violet, a young woman adopted by a loving family after her mother died. This is a loosely based retelling of Little Red Riding Hood.

I liked Violet and her spunk. Her grandmother is also delightful. Sir Merek is as noble a knight as there ever was.

This is Christian fiction, and accordingly, it contains prayers and contemplations about God. This is also YA. I have read many well-written YA novels. This isn't as well-written as it could be. The writing is simplistic and contains many repetitive phrases such as Merek's blood boiling. Also, we are told countless times how handsome he is. But overall, it kept my attention, and I enjoyed it.

Family friendly.

This is a great addition to Melanie Dickerson’s fairytale based romances. A great and easy read. Based off of the Little Red Ridinghood.

All in all, what draws me to Dickerson’s work is how I know she always puts out clean Christian romance with a solid message. The plots are simple, usually with characters that are a little too good to be realistic, a black-and-white villain, and a happily-ever-after resolution. The suspense in House of Refuge had me rushing to the end, but I can’t say Cloak of Scarlet was as consistent.

The worldview in these books is actually what surprised me from the start. Though set in an older time period, the characters consistently call upon God, read and apply His Word, and seek Him in the good times and the bad. Even though there wasn’t really a message of salvation (but rather more of a focus on finding love), these novels read like sweet Middle Grade novels. (They’re technically YA but they feel like they’re more for a younger audience.) House of Refuge is the stronger of the two novels all around, but I did enjoy Cloak of Scarlet.

All in all, I do enjoy these novels, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for the sixth installment! They’re mostly standalone, so you don’t have to read all of them in order. Overall ratings: 3.5

Although Cloak of Scarlet is the fifth title in a series of historical fiction novels, I did not have any difficulty reading it as a stand-alone.

I did not find it the most engaging historical fiction tale I've read, but it was still interesting to dive into the time period. The story has a 'Little Red Riding Hood' theme (as Violet visits her grandmother and has a big bad wolf called Baron Dunham enter her life) with a dose of romance (in the form of Sir Merek.)

For readers who enjoy a Christian slant to things with a clean romance, this could be a good title for them.

I have read Melanie Dickerson in the past, but this was my first in the Dericott Tale series. My sixteen-year-old daughter has read them all and enjoys them very much. This is the fifth book in the series and each one is about a Dericott sibling. I did feel a little lost when the story introduced characters that had a history I didn't know of. I think it would make more sense to start with book one.

Violet Lambton is the adopted daughter of prominent farmers. Raised in a happy childhood with one brother, she is just beginning to understand herself and what she wants out of life. She can't remember much about her previous life with her mother, but is grateful to the Lambtons for taking her in. Violet has a very close relationship with her adopted grandmother and is constantly wearing the scarlet cloak she gave her. The trouble begins when the Lord of the Manor, Baron Dunham, begins to mistreat and overtax all the people under him. Violet cannot stand by and watch the innocent suffer and begins to fight back against the Baron's oppression. Unfortunately, Violet's actions catch the attention of the Baron. He is struck by her unusual violet colored eyes. Who exactly was her mother? And why does the Baron seem to have a secret of his own?

Sir Merek Dericott has been sent by King Richard to serve Baron Dunham. At first he is deceived by the Baron's offer of friendship and speeches about helping the poor in his community. But soon his eyes are opened to the Baron's cruelty and cunning. Soon he begins to have feelings for pretty Violet and wants to help her escape the Baron's clutches.

I liked reading Cloak of Scarlet. It is a good read for teens and is a clean, light romance set in Medieval times. My daughter is always waiting impatiently for the next Melanie Dickerson book!