Cover Image: Robin Hood's Dawn: Book One in The Robin Hood Trilogy

Robin Hood's Dawn: Book One in The Robin Hood Trilogy

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Robin Hood retellings are not my favorites but this book was fierce. I enjoyed it and the writing was very good with vivid descriptions.

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I enjoyed the overall take on the Robin Hood legend. However, the emphasis on the revenge plot became boring over time. I judge a Robin Hood book in part on its characterization of Marian, and this version of the character was a bit too passive for my taste.

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I don't usually read Robin Hood retellings, and I think to be honest all the girl Robin Hood type stories have put me off. But I requested this one late last year, and only just got around to reading it now.

This novel was solidly based in history: there are even family trees and a glossary at the end. This was one of its strengths as I think it made many of the recognizable characters and events we're used to from other Robin Hood stories more plausible. And there are certainly scenes and events readers will recognize, some resembling movies or TV versions of the story.

It also gave an authenticity to some of the smaller details like Robin and Marian's betrothal; and the early years of the reign of Richard the Lionheart. He's referred to as Richard the Lionhearted in this story, which I think is the American version, one of the few such aberrations.
The prologue also sets up a very interesting background for the characters, and especially for the actions of the Sheriff.

The characters were all pretty well-developed, including Robin and Marian, who goes from an innocent and naive girl to an assertive young woman- but by the end of the story is turning into something darker, but I don't want to give away the ending.
Guy of Gisborne may have been one of the best developed characters. I've long been sympathetic to him other Robin Hood stories, and I cannot help feeling a little sorry for him here. Yes he's delusional and violent, but the Sheriff seems to exercise a certain kind of psychological control over him.

I also appreciated how the author's did not fall into the trap of inserting or imposing modern ideas about religion and society into this story. The character's beliefs are instead true to the time, and religion does play quite a big part in their lives, including the characters who aren't necessarily good. They all go to mass and attend church, and accept or are at least aware of religious teachings and norms for the most part. Many also have an active faith, and its not considered something that makes them fanatical or silly.

There is even a reference to the Saint's days and religious calendar was used for centuries.Its interesting that there was no Friar Tuck among Robin's merry men, until right at the end when a Knight Templar called Tuck is introduced. That raises some intriguing possibilities for the next story.

Which I cannot wait for. I want the book now, but I don't know when or indeed if its coming out.

I'd heartily recommend this one to any historical fiction lover who wants a story that is not too dark or intense, but is very accurate. Its a nice change from the typical Romances, which some Robin Hood retellings and a lot of Medieval Fiction seems to be.

I reviewed this book of my own volition, requesting the PDF from Angevin World Publishing on Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review an all opinions expressed are my own.

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A really interesting take on the Robin Hood legend, weaving it into Plantagenet history and drawing on real events. All the old favourites are still there, although Friar Tuck doesn't appear until the end. Maid Marian is more than a "love interest" with a fierce and independent character, The reader gets to see Robin evolve, make mistakes and ultimately triumph, although not in the way you would think.
It's exciting to the last page and I am looking forward to the next instalment.

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I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley and would like to thank them for the opportunity to read a most enjoyable book.

Almost everyone has heard the classic tale of Robin Hood and his Merry band of men who stole from the rich and gave to the poor while battling with the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, the beautiful Maid Marian,
I was born and grew up in England and even visited Sherwood Forest a few times. This story was one of my favorite’s, I found this version of the story very refreshing much to my surprise.
Robin Hood’s Dawn was exceptionally well written read and it not only creates a Robin that I found myself relating with more than any other version of the character before, but also a character who is not a perfect hero. He may still be the forest thief, but he is also tinged with a duty to his country and those he loves. Robin is constantly trying to balance his life and be with Marian, while also trying to live up to what he feels he must do for others. The other element of this novel that I tremendously enjoyed was Marian’s character. She learned to protect herself and takes charge of any situation and was certainly not a damsel in distress as shown in the previous version of this story. I also enjoyed the very well-done glossary at the end of the novel, packed full of explanations and historical details.
I will certainly look forward to reading another book in this series.

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Characters

What’s not to love about Robin Hood? There’s something charming and engaging about the legend from England. In this book he is presented with a wonderful, boyish charm and a brilliant relationship with his friends. He’s provided with political enemies and motivation to fight for what is right. While I would argue he is not the protagonist of the book (It is certainly an ensamble), he is the focus.

Marion in this book is my favourite portrayal outside of the Disney animation. I’ve always struggled with how other books and film represent her, where as in Robin Hood’s Dawn, the characteristic of head strong woman does not conflict with her feminity,

Plot

The plot does exactly what it perhaps suggests in the title; it is an origins of sorts. There is detail in the history, ensuring readers understand where in which the story is based. It is rich in historical context and ensure you are there on the front lines. It doesn’t boil the ideas of Robin Hood down to the parable-like meanings some other retellings do and it’s a refreshing change to see the story show how much of an impact the Crusades are believed to have had upon the citizens of England.

Writing

The story moves between many characters to give the historical setting its richness. It does make the initial chapters a little broken and choppy, but the payoff is very much worth it. It becomes a fast and easy read that will have you begging for the sequel.

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Of course the basic story of Robin Hood is a good one and I enjoy a maid Marion's transition from delicate flower to empowered woman, I do not care for the excessive reiteration of the titles and land holdings of all the characters, I don't feel that it adds to the story but rather detracts. I would read book two when it comes out.

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First, I must say that the Historical Fiction section was never my go to in the bookstore. I always gravitated more towards Young Adult or Romance. However, I am truly glad that I was offered a chance to read and review this book. It took me away from my norm and allowed me to experience a new world.

This book takes you back to a time of malevolent kings and revengeful knights. The writing was so good that it felt as though you were right along side Robin Hood and his band of merry men in Sherwood Forest.

I can't wait to read the rest of this trilogy. And I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an escape from the norm.

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When I was approached about reading this book, I was only vaguely familiar with the story of Robin Hood. I watched the Disney movie and I read some Robin Hood books when I was a kid. I knew he took from the rich and gave to the poor, but that was just a small part of this story. This book gave so much more fascinating details about Robin Hood.

I loved the background of the characters that was given at the beginning. The characters all had so much depth, because their family histories were told before they were introduced. I enjoy English historical fiction, so I really liked this story.

The story wasn’t just about Robin Hood. It really talked about the royal issues at the time, such as who will inherit the throne. Many people took advantage of their position to abuse their power, such as the Sheriff. But these situations only gave Robin Hood an opportunity to become a hero.

The story was incredibly detailed. So much happened in the story, that I can’t imagine what will happen in the next instalments. This story would be great for fans of historical fiction and Robin Hood.

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This is a retelling of Robin Hood’s legend and a pretty good one at that. I am vaguely familiar with the outlaw who stole from the rich and gave to the poor and who had problems with the Sheriff of Nottingham (and that episode of Doctor Who with Robin Hood and the robots :)).

Anyway. The book is interesting although I had a lot of problems in the beginning – it featured a lot of characters I did not know and did not know how much of an effort I should put in remembering their names. It might have been a bit too long as I thin it should have come to the hero of the book a bit faster.

That was one of my biggers issues with the book. At times it rushed forwards and at other times it was quite slow. That being said, I started to enjoy it soon. By the end I thought there would be that one plot twist that would make the legend quite different, but then another plot twist came. Yet, I liked the characters and I thought they were quite truthfull. The sheriff and his servants, the schemers, Robin and his men, and Marian were easy to either hate or love. And I liked the descriptions of Richard the Lionheart.

The description of the next book is also very intriguing and I am looking forward to reading it.

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I'd like to extend my thanks to NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to review this novel.
Robin Hood's Dawn is the origin story of the popular folk hero that we all know and love. Sadly, this story does him no justice. Which is truly disappointing, because this book has moments of great depth, then there's an ABSURDLY SAPPY love scene.
Now, I love a sappy love scene but the love scenes in this novel are the sickeningly sweet nightmares of Queen Eleanor's very worst bard. There are some excellent action scenes, with some very good descriptions of medieval Acre. Sword fights, arguments, and beatings clash violently with all the lovey-dovey googly eyes.
This book is the love child of a Hallmark movie and Braveheart. If you like that kind of dichotomy, you'll love this book. If you can't stand teenagers (and adults) mooning over each other to spice up your battle scenes (like myself) put this book back on the shelf and move on to the next book.

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Accused of murdering Lady Marian's father, Robin is sentenced to death in a public hanging. When he is rescued by John Little and his men, Robin becomes an outlaw, pledging to destroy sheriff Argentan and his accomplices, Gisborne and Payan without killing. He decides to make their lives so difficult that they will leave Nottingham and end their tyranny of the common people.
This is an intriguing story of how Robin and the sheriff of Nottingham ended up opposite each other and is full of many surprising twists. It is quite a different take on the usual Robin Hood legend. I have my own suspicions for the direction book 2 will take!
I haven't read a lot of historical fiction but I did love Philippa Gregory's series and thought this sounded interesting so decided to give it a try. It would help to know some history of the period, which is definitely not one of my strengths but the family tree at the beginning helps a bit. There is also an extensive glossary at the end, which is useful for some of the lesser known old fashioned words.

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Though I am a massive fan of any and all retellings, this reading experience was a bit different than usual. I have not actually read any Robin Hood stories yet, so I went into this knowing far less about the original source material. Typically, I don’t read retellings when I have such a small amount of knowledge of the story it’s trying to retell. However, after reading the synopsis of this novel, I absolutely could not pass it up—and I am extremely glad that I didn’t, for multiple reasons.

First and foremost, I thoroughly enjoyed my general reading experience. This exciting story and its memorable cast of characters, this fictional adventure embedded in historical fact—it all works together beautifully to create a riveting and witty narrative. Second, it was interesting for me to essentially go in blind, not having any substantial frame of reference. While I have little to no ability to compare and contrast this retelling to anything else, I feel that I have a handle on the way it comes across on its own, without any preconceived ideas of how things should be. That gave me a personally unique perspective compared to what I’m used to when it comes to retellings.

In this novel, we follow Robin Fitzooth—Earl of Huntingdon and an experienced swordsman and archer—during the events leading up to and immediately follow his transformation into the Robin Hood we all know and love. A false murder conviction sends him to Sherwood Forest and into the role of a hero, fighting for justice over a corrupt force within a country at war, all while retaining his loyalty to the king and his own integrity. He risks everything to right the wrongs inflicted on the poor and innocent, and to combat an immoral group of men who are conspiring to destroy a kingdom and threaten to harm those closest to him.

I will go ahead and say now that being unfamiliar with the original stories did not dampen my enjoyment of this novel in any way whatsoever. In fact, I am now even more eager to read those classic tales. Longueville and Plummer give us a well-rounded view of the lives as well as the familial histories of our main characters. We not only experience the adventures of Robin Hood and his men, but also witness the events that brought them together, even reaching back through multiple generations. The comprehensive rendering of fictional events woven into historical ones allows for a deeper understanding of the time period, and subsequently a multi-dimensional narrative.

I have to admit, this ended up being a bit of a slow read for me. This was not at all a reflection of the writing or story quality—rather, it was just my own ability to immerse myself in the world and plot. The text itself flows very nicely and is consistently absorbing, particularly as the action picks up a few chapters into the novel. The world-building is vivid and captures the time period well. Longueville and Plummer clearly put a lot of time and effort into researching the history that sets the stage for this adventure to play out on, and their knowledge causes the story to be even more tangible.

One thing I am unsure of is how exactly Longueville and Plummer split up the task of writing, but nonetheless, I was very impressed with the seamlessness of the text. I didn’t notice any major shifts in the writing or storytelling style, which is no small feat in a dual author narrative. The pair demonstrate a great deal of skill and knowledge in both prose and history, and make for a strong literary duo.

Longueville and Plummer do a fantastic job building three-dimensional characters who are easy to either root for or hate, and are always memorable. The relationships between the characters are beautifully depicted as well, the love story between Robin and Marian being an outstanding example. I am particularly pleased with how they portrayed Marian—while Robin is very protective of her and desperate to save her, she remains very independent, strong, and brave in a horrible situation. Robin’s relationships with the members of his band are another major highlight of this novel.

Overall, I found this to be a solid and well-crafted fantasy. Though it took me a bit longer to get through, I did feel very engaged and invested all the way to the end. Both fans of Robin Hood’s adventures as well as readers new to these characters can easily find enjoyment in this novel. While things do not end in any sort of cliffhanger, I was still left wanting more. I’m eager to see where the story goes, so I will definitely be picking up the next two installments as they come out.

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I've always been a huge fan of Robin Hood and unfortunately, haven't come across a lot of re-tellings so, when I saw Robin Hood's dawn, I was ecstatic! I was extremely excited to start reading it immediately and I was not disappointed. I was a bit confused at the beginning because it took me a couple of chapters to get used to the writing style and the language used but, once I did, everything was great! It was like Robin Hood's Dawn actually transported me to that era with its detailed descriptions and vivid images.

I got immersed in the story and how accurately written it was and I really appreciated the explanations given for terms that I wasn't really familiar with.
I was extremely intrigued and excited to finally be introduced to the characters of the original in a completely different way than I was used to and their development through the novel really impressed me! It was definitely a fresh take on the legend itself and gave the characters a very well thought of new beginning, in a way. The story itself is very engaging and the way it explores conspiracies and distinguishes what is right and what is wrong in the eyes of each character is fascinating. The characters are far from two dimensional, which is something I always appreciate and they have certain depth to them that, truthfully, isn't really easy to come across in novels. They just feel so real and I couldn't help but connect with them more with each chapter!


Throughout the novel, there are so many things going on that kept me at the edge of my seat and I cannot stress how much I enjoyed reading about these characters and their adventures enough! Structure is also very important when it comes to Historical Fiction and Fantasy novels, especially if they're based off of such a famous and loved hero and truth be told, the expectations are a bit higher when it comes to re-tellings in general. I feel like the authors did a perfect job at structuring the novel itself accordingly and creating memorable characters readers could easily relate to. Which is more than admirable! Basing a novel on an already existing one is not easy at all but, they handled it perfectly!

Overall, Robin Hood's Dawn was a beautifully written, action packed and intricately woven tale of loyalty, the difference between right and wrong and how important it is to question corruption and authority when it's not doing what it's supposed to! I highly highly recommend it to everyone in search of an interesting story that will definitely leave a positive impression! I cannot wait for the sequel and I'm extremely curious to see how Robin Hood's story will unfold!

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Robin Hood has been one of the popular culture's folk heroes. We have seen him as a subject of ballads, films, and books. Robin has been known as a highly skilled archer and swordsman, who robs the rich and gives it to the poor alongside his band of Merry Men in Sherwood Forest. However, have you ever wondered what is Robin's life before he fought injustice and oppression with his band?

Robin Hood's Dawn by authors Olivia Longueville and J.C. Plummer gives so many answers to these types of questions while remaining true to the story. The story highlights how Robin faced deceit, conspiracies, and an impending war while upholding his own morality and loyalty to the king and his country.

I like how the story began with a family tree so the readers knew who was related to whom. I personally found it very helpful since I tend to easily get confused when I am overwhelmed with so many characters. I loved the writing style of the book. Although it got too wordy sometimes, the attention to details allowed readers to easily get absorb and imagine every scene. It just felt so real. The story itself was fast-paced. Moreover, the story was mixed with historical fiction, action, adventure, friendship, and romance.

There were good and bad characters which are all memorable and unique in their own ways. This book allowed each character to develop gradually as the story went. I could not help but adore the friendship of Robin with his merry men. Also, his undying devotion to Marian brought emotions which made me sighed. Also, I like Guy to some level.

I really had a fun time knowing and understanding Robin Hood through this well-written retelling. There is no way you will able to put this book down until you finished. If you really want to see Robin Hood's story in a new light, then you need to read this book. I cannot wait to read the second and third part of this trilogy.

I give Robin Hood's Dawn 5 stars.

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I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and any thoughts on this books are completely my own.

Almost everyone has heard the classic tale of Robin Hood and his Merry band of men who stole from the rich and gave to the poor while battling with the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, the beautiful Maid Marian and the war of France that King Richard was battling with. I always wondered what the back story could have been on Robin Hood and what let him to do the things he was doing.

This book was just what I was looking for because it not only gave a back story as to why France was so at war with England but also who Robin Hood could have been and the story behind what happened.

In this version Robin Hood was born Robert Robin Fitzooth, the Earl of Huntingdon who spends his time helping those less fortunate, becoming a skilled archer and spending time with his betrothed Marian. Though there's a shadowing of his parents' death, Robin is doing his best to move on and enjoy life in the present with his beloved at his side. Just when things seem to be falling into place, his mentor and Marian's Father are murdered. If that wasn't terrible enough, Robin is falsely accused of performing the striking blow and becomes an outlaw after escaping his prison into the Sherwood Forest.

Robin is determined to get to the bottom of this false claim and sets out on a journey with loyal companions at his side to learn the truth of who really killed his mentor, clear his name and hopefully spend a quieter life with Marian at his side.

Things are not so easily solved and he finds himself caught up in a plot that was brought about long before he was born that involved his Father, trusted advisers and a host of people who turned on their liege in a crucial moment and the after affects are not quite done with the next generation.

Full of adventure, intrigue, history and revenge, it was a wonderful retelling of the classic Robin Hood tale. This is part one of a series so you can be there will be much more information and another adventure when the next book is released!

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I remember seeing Robin Hood films. I also watched the a cartoon series about Robin Hood when I was very young.
This is the first retelling of Robin Hood I have read, and it was action from start to end.
The attention to detail is amazing and the book is very atmospheric. There's bloodshead and disagreements as well as romance.

The title of the book is just perfect! It automatically mentions Robin Hood, but got me interested as to find out what his origins were and how he came to be.

We are introduced to the characters well and they are well fleshed-out.
I felt I was immediately transported into the era. Every detail is so real.

I was a little confused by some of the language used at first, but luckily there's a dictionary at the back of the book (which I thought would have been better placed at the front to avoid having to go to the end). The book begins with a helpful chart and a family tree so the reader gets a sense of who's who right before they read/ listen to the first sentence. There's also a handy graphic showing the shields. This was a nice touch.

The cover was mysterious despite Robin Hood's name and after finishing it, I was happy that I had a greater understanding of how Robin Hood came to be Robin Hood and quite a detailed idea of his background as well as that of the characters who are household names when we think of Robin
Hood.

Some parts did get a little wordy at times, but the upside of that was that the descriptions of both the surroundings and people as well as the culture and customs of the time were made even more visual and realistic. Short chapters really helped the pace along and kept me listening to my Kindle ARC on my iPad!

I'm looking forward to book two!

Thanks to Olivia Longueville and J.C. Plummer for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

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In this retelling of the Robin Hood legend, Robin is a nobleman in exile during the reign of Henry II and Richard I because he has been accused of a crime he didn't commit. Dark forces are at work as the French conspire to take over the English throne, and Robin becomes a pawn in their deadly game. Robin, Marian, and the Sherwood Forest outlaws begin their fight against the French in this first novel of a new trilogy.
I have been fascinated with the Robin Hood legend since I was little, so I was excited to read this book. I thought this book was very well done, and the historical connections made sense to me. Everything seemed to align well with the original legend, with a few changes. The writing was descriptive and kept me reading into the night until I finished the book. I thought it bogged down a little in the middle and I didn't care for the profanity and sexual content (I prefer to keep the bedroom door closed), but I did enjoy reading the book overall. I am looking forward to finding out what happens next.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Blending real history with the key elements of the Robin Hood legend, revealing the man that went on to become the peoples hero Robin Hood himself. From his background story and his family to becoming the leader of a band of men fighting for king and country.
Robin Hood leads the fight in a battle of good verses evil for the future and the past.
It delves into the intrinsic value of all people, rich or poor, the moral imperative of defending the powerless against tyrannical government officials and shows the transformation of Lady Marian into a powerful female character who faces danger with an intrepid spirit.
Fans of Game of Thrones will love this book!

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Robin Hood's Dawn (The Robin Hood Trilogy #1) was not what I figure it was gonna be. I figure it would be the same old storyline that has been told several times before. To my surprise Olivia Longueville & J.C. Plummer changed the entire story line while still remaining true to the story. Olivia Longueville & J.C. Plummer has shifted things & moved the order around so much that it seems like an entire new story while at the same time remains true o the story just not the normal story line. There are all the "bad" & "good" characters in the story in their correct places but things have been moved around & has made it more interesting in my opinion.

If you want to read the Robin Hood Story but completely different in a good way that will make you want to read the second & third book in the series then you need to read this book.

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