Not for the Faint of Heart by Lex Croucher

In the ever-expanding realm of YA fantasy retellings, few stories dare to venture beyond the well-worn paths of their source material. Lex Croucher’s “Not for the Faint of Heart” not only blazes its own trail through Sherwood Forest but also reimagines the legend of Robin Hood through a distinctly queer, feminist lens that speaks to contemporary audiences while honoring the spirit of the original tale.

The Story: More Than Just Merry Adventures

Set generations after Robin Hood’s legendary exploits, the novel follows Mariel Hartley-Hood, the iron-willed granddaughter of the famous outlaw, as she struggles to prove herself worthy of her heritage. When her company kidnaps Clem, a progressive healer with an irrepressible spirit, Mariel’s carefully constructed world begins to unravel. What starts as a simple act of retribution evolves into a complex narrative about identity, legacy, and the true meaning of justice.

Strengths That Hit the Mark

Characters That Leave Their Mark

The novel’s greatest strength lies in its masterfully crafted characters. Mariel, with her perpetual scowl and desperate need for validation, embodies the weight of inherited expectations. Her journey from rigid adherence to her father’s rules to finding her own moral compass is both compelling and authentically rendered. Clem serves as the perfect foil – her optimism and unwavering ethical code challenge Mariel’s assumptions while providing much-needed levity to the darker moments.

World-Building with Depth

Croucher’s version of Sherwood Forest feels lived-in and real, with political intrigues and personal vendettas that extend beyond simple rich-versus-poor dynamics. The author skillfully weaves historical elements with fantasy, creating a setting that feels both familiar and fresh.

Romance That Steals the Show

The slow-burn romance between Mariel and Clem is expertly crafted, building tension through small moments and verbal sparring that crackle with chemistry. Their relationship develops organically against the backdrop of increasing danger, making their eventual connection feel earned rather than contrived.

Areas That Miss the Target

Pacing Inconsistencies

While the first half of the novel maintains steady momentum, the middle section occasionally meanders, particularly during the political machinations at Underwood. Some readers might find these sections slow compared to the action-packed opening and finale.

Complex Political Landscape

The various factions and their motivations can be difficult to track, especially in the latter half of the book. Younger readers might struggle to keep up with the shifting alliances and betrayals.

Writing Style: Sharp as an Arrow

Croucher’s prose is a delightful blend of wit and wisdom, perfectly capturing both the gravity of the situation and the humor that helps the characters cope. The author excels at:

• Snappy dialogue that reveals character
• Vivid action sequences
• Emotional depth without melodrama
• Historical atmosphere without getting bogged down in period details

Themes That Strike True

Legacy and Identity

The novel expertly explores how the weight of family expectations can both shape and constrain us. Mariel’s struggle to live up to her grandfather’s legacy while finding her own path resonates deeply.

Justice and Morality

Through Clem’s healing work and Mariel’s evolving understanding of right and wrong, the story questions what true justice looks like and whether the ends can justify the means.

Found Family

The bonds formed between the main characters and their companions provide a heartwarming exploration of chosen family and loyalty.

Representation Matters

The queer representation in “Not for the Faint of Heart” feels natural and integrated rather than tokenistic. The novel presents multiple LGBTQ+ characters whose identities inform but don’t define their stories. The inclusion of diverse characters extends beyond sexuality to include different ethnicities and backgrounds, creating a richer tapestry of medieval England.

Comparisons and Context

For readers who enjoyed Croucher’s previous work “Gwen and Art Are Not in Love,” this sophomore novel maintains the author’s signature wit while delving into darker territory. Fans of Mackenzi Lee’s “The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue” and Robin LaFevers’ “His Fair Assassin” series will find similar themes of adventure, romance, and questioning societal norms.

Final Verdict:

“Not for the Faint of Heart” succeeds as both a compelling adventure and a thoughtful exploration of identity and justice. While some pacing issues and complex political plotlines might challenge younger readers, the strong character development, engaging romance, and fresh take on the Robin Hood legend make this a worthy addition to the YA fantasy genre.

Perfect for Readers Who:

• Love queer historical fantasy
• Enjoy complex female protagonists
• Appreciate found family narratives
• Seek adventures with depth and heart

Content Considerations:

• Violence (not gratuitous but present)
• Some medical procedures and injuries
• Complex family dynamics and trauma
• Political intrigue

This novel proves that sometimes the most important legends are the ones we write for ourselves, rather than those handed down to us. Croucher has created a story that honors its source material while blazing new trails through the greenwood, making “Not for the Faint of Heart” a remarkable addition to the growing canon of queer YA fantasy.