The Outlaw Witch of Sherwood 

by Brittany Hansen

(Let's here it for the cover!!!!👏👏👏👏)

⭐⭐⭐

A gender-bent Robin Hood wrapped in magic, Renna Hood has a premise that’s hard to resist. The first half drags with heavy worldbuilding and info-dumps, but once Renna escapes into Sherwood Forest, the story truly comes alive. The ever-blooming woods, clever fox companion, and found-family dynamics make for enchanting moments, and the second half delivers stronger pacing, richer tension, and a slow-burn romance, though the latter never quite sparks.

Renna’s journey is compelling in parts, especially her awakening to betrayal and self-discovery, but she often feels passive compared to Garen, the battle-hardened Sheriff of Nottingham, whose arc carries more weight and purpose. For a Robin Hood retelling, action and momentum felt lacking, and the romance could have used more depth.

That said, the Nordic- and Slavic-inspired worldbuilding is vivid and immersive, with blood magic, witchcraft, and lush folklore giving it a unique flavor. Renna Hood may not be flawless, but it offers enough charm, magic, and mystery to delight fans of dark fantasy and folkloric romance.