Full disclosure that I have a story in this anthology. I will only be reviewing the rest of the stories. All remarks below exclude my own story, including the count—twelve stories exist in this anthology.
The fairy tale of Red Riding Hood is a cautionary tale in the category of “kids in trouble.” The other two main types are “true love” (e.g. Cinderella) and “plucky hero” (e.g. Puss in Boots). Ye Olde Dragon Press has released three anthologies before Tales from the Forest all falling into the “true love” category. With its focus away from romance, this Riding-Hood-themed book was a welcome addition to the series.
The editors asked the authors to think creatively when writing about Red Riding Hood and the result is a wide range of ideas. Four of eleven short stories are contemporary or thrillers. At least three of the stories would best be enjoyed by eighteen and older. The character of Red Riding Hood is everything from a villain, to a soldier, to a spy. Very few of the stories would be classified as humorous, though humor is sprinkled throughout many of the stories.
Everything here is executed with style, and the stories elevate the anthologies to one of the better selections on the market. Tastes vary, but a few stood out to me. First, I evaluated the story itself, independent of its fairytale origins. Then, I rated the story based on how creatively it took its theme and presented a new story.
Ignoring the Red Riding Hood theme, the three tales I enjoyed the best were A Cactus Among Wolves by Yvonne McArthur, The Ways of a Wolf by Lindsi McIntyre, and Kelli and Kirmizi by Michelle Houston. These three brought a first-rate story to the pages and built fascinating characters and settings.
For the other rating (i.e. the twist on Red Riding Hood theme), kudos to Crimson Spy by Jessica Noelle, Woodland Cravings by Rachel A. Greco, and Red Wolf by Michelle Levigne.
A third category is the stories that balanced the two the best. Face the Wolf by Kathleen Bird and The Night of the Mindbender by Stoney M. Setzer received honors here.
Overall, something exists for everyone in this anthology. Whether you cheer on Red Riding Hood, enjoy a good wolf story, or think Grandma is the winner, you’ll find something here for you.
Ye Olde Dragon Site: https://yeoldedragonbooks.com/anthologies/