Book Review – The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud
The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud (The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne #1)
Fantasy | Young Adult | 400 pages
Published on 1 April 2021 by Walker Books
Synopsis
Set in a fragmented future England, The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne introduces us to a world where gunfights and monsters collide, and where the formidable outlaw Scarlett McCain fights daily against the odds. When she discovers a wrecked coach on a lonely road, there is only one survivor – the seemingly hapless youth, Albert Browne. Against her instincts, Scarlett agrees to escort him to safety. This is a mistake. Soon, new and implacable enemies are on her heels. As a relentless pursuit continues across the broken landscape of England, Scarlett must fight to uncover the secrets of Albert’s past – and come to terms with the implications of her own.
In his first new project since Lockwood & Co., Jonathan once again fuses action, humour and mystery to create a uniquely exciting adventure with two fascinating heroes at its heart.
My rating:
Review
I received this book from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Given a couple of my friends had mentioned not being sold on this, I started it pretty tentatively. But I quickly found myself caught up in the story and wondering how it was going to play out.
I do really like a quest or journeying book, as well as heist books, so I was immediately taken with our heroes trip, as well as with the thievery! I quite liked what we got to see of the world as well. There definitely could have been more world building and character development, however. We don’t get to know Scarlett’s secrets or get to know much about who Albert is underneath his nerves. And we don’t know why Britain has turned into what it has.
That said, what we did see of the world was quite interesting, and it was well enough done that I can imagine some of the traipsing through countryside in the Cotswolds, or sailing down the Thames. It felt very grounded in a world we knew, with enough twists to stop it being recognisable.
I also really liked Joe and Ettie, and I hope that we get to see more of them in future! I am definitely assuming this is heading into a series and I look forward to finding out more.
3.5 stars.
Buy The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan Stroud from Waterstones or Blackwells.
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