Scarlet

Scarlet is the second book in The Lunar Chronicles series, a science fiction reimagining of classic fairy tales. Set in France, the story centers on 18-year-old Scarlet Benoit's search for her missing grandmother while a larger political crisis unfolds in the Eastern Commonwealth. The narrative introduces Wolf, a mysterious street fighter who becomes involved in Scarlet's quest. Their investigation leads them from a small French farming town to Paris as they follow clues about a dangerous organization marked by distinctive tattoos. The book continues the storyline from Cinder while weaving in this new tale inspired by Little Red Riding Hood. The parallel narratives intersect as both heroines face mounting threats in their respective locations. This science fiction adaptation explores themes of loyalty, trust, and the complex relationship between appearance and identity. Through its futuristic setting, the novel examines how traditional fairy tale elements can be transformed to address contemporary social issues.

Readers say this retelling of Little Red Riding Hood builds effectively on the first book in the series while introducing compelling new characters. They mention the strong chemistry between Scarlet and Wolf, and appreciate how their storyline interweaves with Cinder's continuing narrative. What readers liked: - Fast-paced plot with multiple storylines - Character development, especially Wolf - Equal balance of action and romance - French setting and atmospheric details What readers disliked: - Less focus on Cinder compared to book one - Takes time to adjust to new main characters - Some found the parallel plotlines confusing - Romance develops too quickly for some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 from 338,000+ ratings Amazon: 4.7/5 from 3,800+ ratings Barnes & Noble: 4.6/5 from 900+ ratings "The dual narratives strengthen rather than detract from each other," notes one top Goodreads review. Another reader states: "The world-building expands naturally without overwhelming the story."

Cinder by Marissa Meyer First book in the Lunar Chronicles series follows a cyborg mechanic in a sci-fi retelling of Cinderella.

Ash by Malinda Lo This retelling of Cinderella incorporates Chinese folklore and follows an apprentice huntress who must choose between a fairy prince and her mortal love.

The Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare A shape-shifting girl in Victorian London discovers her supernatural powers while searching for her missing brother among demons and clockwork creatures.

Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge This Beauty and the Beast reimagining combines Greek mythology with a story of a girl trained to kill the demon ruler she must marry.

The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh A retelling of One Thousand and One Nights follows a young woman who volunteers to marry a murderous king with the intent to end his reign.

🌙 The character Wolf was inspired by both the fairy tale Big Bad Wolf and various werewolf mythologies from around the world, particularly Slavic folklore. 🚀 Marissa Meyer wrote the first draft of Scarlet during NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), completing most of the manuscript in just 30 days. 🇫🇷 The author specifically chose France as the setting after discovering that the earliest written version of Little Red Riding Hood originated in the French court of King Louis XIV. 🤖 The series' unique blend of fairy tales and science fiction was conceived while Meyer was working as a fan fiction writer for the anime series Sailor Moon. 📚 The Lunar Chronicles series has been translated into over 30 languages and has sold more than 7 million copies worldwide, with Scarlet consistently ranking as a fan favorite.