The Notorious Scarlett and Browne (Scarlett and Browne 2)

 
4.9 (3)
 
0.0 (0)
989 0
The Notorious Scarlett and Browne (Scarlett and Browne 2)
Age Range
10+
Release Date
April 25, 2023
ISBN
978-0593430408
Buy This Book
      
Albert and Scarlett are a formidable pair. With his ability to read minds and her way with a weapon, no bank can keep them out and no jail can keep them in.
     But their notoriety may have spread a bit too far. Now old enemies from Scarlett’s past and a sinister new threat from Albert’s world are boxing them in—and holding their friends hostage.
     To win their freedom, the outlaws Scarlett and Browne are charged with pulling off an impossible mission.
     And the clock is ticking . . .

Editor reviews

3 reviews
Overall rating
 
4.9
Plot
 
5.0(3)
Characters
 
4.7(3)
Writing Style
 
5.0(3)
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A(0)
Sci-Fi Western for teens
Overall rating
 
4.7
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
4.0
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
What I liked:
Scarlett and Browne are outlaws, so famous they have a scandal sheet portraying their escapades. In this second book, both must face demons from their past that they kept to themselves and did not own up to. They are outlaws on the run, so they share the barest details about themselves, and Albert, bless his mind-reading heart, does his best to keep from wandering into Scarletts. There is some extreme edge-of-your-seat, cringing, scary moment in this second book, and it does get dark when they interact with the tainted. The tainted were once human but have become zombie-like, and they are bound to be scary for some to read about.
Final Verdict:
While this second book is darker, we also get more in-depth with Scarlett's back story in small sections at the start of each new part in the book. It would help to read the first book in this series to find out how these two end up together and become these famous outlaws on the run. Stroud knows how to write creative and interesting characters that you can't help turning the pages and reading more about their adventures.
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Facing your Past
Overall rating
 
5.0
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
5.0
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
This sequel is a strong addition to the Scarlett and Browne series. I loved that we delved deeper into Scarlett’s past and that she even reached the point in her relationship with Albert to open up about her deepest regret that has driven her to a life of drinking, gambling, and thieving. We learn where her mad skills came from and we see the solid companionship that is evolving between them.
I loved that we skipped enough time from the first book for Albert to have learned some self-preservation skills. I enjoyed his continued evolution to come to terms with his immense powers. It took strength to face them and decide they are worth developing and to start to rid himself of the shame that was ingrained in him from his torturous upbringing at Stonemoor.
The high-stakes robbery that managed to involve people from Scarlett’s and Albert’s past was expertly woven and made an action-packed story that was exciting to read through to the end. The snarkiness we know and love from Scarlett was still there but it is tempered by her evolving ability to be vulnerable around Albert and somewhat less lethal around others.
Final Verdict: I enjoyed the plot and the heart of these characters. They are evolving and delving into their pasts and learning to face them. The ending set the path for the next story and it sounds like a natural progression in their redemption and healing and I am excited for it! This continues to be a series that more mature middle grade or YA might be better suited to enjoy.

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Harnessing the powers within
Overall rating
 
5.0
Plot
 
5.0
Characters
 
5.0
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
N/A
What worked:
Scarlett and Browne are infamous thieves with Browne able to read minds and Scarlett an expert with weapons. The opening scene displays these talents as bandits quickly discover they’re attempting to rob the wrong two travelers. This moves into the next scene where they rob a Faith House with security so daunting that no other thieves are brave enough to attempt a heist. However, Browne is the moral conscience of the story as he questions what they’re doing. The church is depicted as a greedy, intimidating entity so robbing them doesn’t bother him but he wonders if Scarlett and he should be doing more to help oppressed citizens living in poverty. Their different views of the world create a simmering conflict between the two main characters until Browne learns more about Scarlett’s past.
Scarlett is the most interesting character as her personality is complicated. She comes across as rough and violent and that image is well-deserved. She has no problem killing those that threaten her or stand in her way but Browne is slowly encouraging her to treat some people less severely. Scarlett has quiet moments by herself when she calms her mind and reflects on her life. She’s always been confident in her choices and ability but she’s discovering there are treacherous, powerful people (perhaps more formidable than herself) intent on harming her or coercing her to use her skills. The main conflict in the plot actually arises from Scarlett’s concern for the safety and well-being of a young girl and her grandfather.
Fame and brochures retelling their escapades follow the notorious pair but the plot always has an air of danger. Scarlett and Browne never know who they can trust (usually no one) so Browne’s talent for reading minds comes in handy. A wild card throughout the book concerns his fear and anger as he releases blasts of devastating energy when the feelings become too strong. He’s unable to control this ability so it requires all of his inner strength to stifle the emotions. In addition to human dangers, various deadly creatures including Taints, blood-moles, and man-sized owls roam the lands, caves, and fen and add to the suspense in every chapter. A literal ticking clock counts down the time to a deadline that will result in the death of two innocent people. An intriguing twist occurs when another foe resurfaces to execute Scarlett and Browne and complicates their efforts.
What didn’t work as well:
The violent nature of the story, some suggestive scenes, and mild profanity may not be appropriate for younger readers. Actually, the author craftily blends drama, and maturity mixed with middle-grade, humor, and impossible conflicts to develop this highly fascinating story.
The Final Verdict:
While the tale of these two “heroes” has a mature tone due to Scarlett’s rough personality, middle-grade readers will still enjoy the action and dramatic situations. The very mild profanity is offset by the swear box Scarlett wears around her neck and she makes frequent donations. The overall book is very entertaining and I recommend you give it a shot. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
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