Lion Heart by A. C. Gaughen

Series: Scarlet #3 (series ender)
348 p.
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens
Published: 5/19/15
Source: Library

The eagerly-awaited conclusion to the Scarlet trilogy delivers another action-packed and romance-filled adventure. 

Scarlet has captured the hearts of readers as well as the heart of Robin Hood, and after ceaseless obstacles and countless threats, readers will finally find out the fate of the Lady Thief. 

Imprisoned by Prince John for months, Scarlet finds herself a long way from Nottinghamshire. After a daring escape from the Prince's clutches, she learns that King Richard’s life is in jeopardy, and Eleanor of Aquitaine demands a service Scarlet can’t refuse: spy for her and help bring Richard home safe. But fate—and her heart—won’t allow her to stay away from Nottinghamshire for long, and together, Scarlet and Rob must stop Prince John from going through with his dark plans for England. They can not rest until he’s stopped, but will their love be enough to save them once and for all?

My thoughts:

I was so bummed when I missed this one for review. It took me a while to get this one but I made sure my library would have it so I could read it.  I knew this was the ending book to the trilogy and ending books tend to disappoint me a lot. With this book, I have to say I was not disappointed and I would gladly choose to read the trilogy again. Yes, this one is great for the permanent collection.

We ended tragically with the second book so I knew we were in for a lot in the beginning of this book. I had forgotten quite a bit but it all came back as some of her injuries were accounted in several of the pages. Her injuries were both things that tried to destroy her but some of them made her stronger. It should be noted that she does struggle somewhat with those injuries so it does make her power seem more real and strong in the end.

I loved the light parts of the book. You almost didn't expect them to happen with all the dark that surrounds Scarlet. The ending was fulfilling but the impact it intended wasn't quite as strong. Still, I wouldn't want the ending any other way. The author's notes at the end tells where history is real and where she deviated from it. I think those that like to know how much history involved will enjoy those notes.

I give this book 4 stars. It is a solid ending to a great trilogy. I recommend it to those that love historical fiction, fantasy, and retellings. I think that older YA as well as adults will really enjoy this tale.