A review by yourbookishbff
The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes by Cat Sebastian

emotional funny reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I loved this follow-up to The Queer Principles of Kit Webb! This is through-and-through a Robin Hood retelling, with a murdering Marian swapped in for Maid Marian, much to my delight. Truly, I will read any grumpy x sunshine pairing Cat Sebastian writes, because once again I adored this dynamic and her ability to create oddly hilarious and tender moments amidst heartache and trauma. Marian is in shock at the start of our story, and it takes the sustained sunshine of our pretty, preening rogue, Rob, to gradually ease her fear and anxiety. Rob's golden retriever energy is an absolute delight, particularly contrasted to the sharp edges of Marian's affection, and their chemistry had me sweating. And both of our main characters are bi?! I was floating with joy.

This is a story of reclaimed agency with big eat-the-rich energy, and it manages to weave in a road trip, only-one-bed-at-the-inn, blackmailers-to-lovers, found family, some chill kidnappings and some of the best executed femme domme I've read in historical romance. Highly recommend. Will be rereading.

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