When I was recently offered the chance to read an ARC of The Red Fox Ran by December Knight, I was intrigued. The descriptions that I read for the book were vague but interesting. Ultimately, I have mixed feelings about this book, which will be published on Leap Day next year (February 29, 2024).
Basic Thoughts
This is a really interesting book in an odd way. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. For me, I thought the concept of the book was interesting, but the actual execution of the story didn’t quite work out for me. Unfortunately, it’s hard to say much more about the plot without ruining it. I will say, though, if you are looking for a book about a fox running, you will be disappointed. While there is a reason for the book’s title, that’s not apparent until almost the end of the book.
Mildly Christian Elements
This book seems to be marketed as a Christian book. There’s a chapter about 40% of the way into the book that really focuses on Christian values, but then after that, it’s easy to forget for a while that this is supposedly a Christian book. Then suddenly in the last two chapters, the characters are praying again. I would have preferred for these values to be spread throughout the book rather than really pushed at the reader during these three chapters.
Where It Went Wrong and Right
To me, the conversations really didn’t feel real. I think that’s the biggest reason this book got 3 stars. The conversations felt forced. They really need some editing. Along with that, our main character, Bay, I think is supposed to be likable. I found him to be really creepy. While I’m okay with him having almost no social skills, I still wanted to root for him as a character, and I just couldn’t fully like him.
One thing that I really liked about this story was the build-up to what made Bay and his brother, Blaze, different. The author did an excellent job giving us little hints throughout the story. For me, that worked really well. I liked that you knew pieces of their story without knowing their full story.
Is It Clean?
I would consider this a clean book. There’s no swearing, sexual content, or graphic violence. There is some violence, but it’s on the milder side and mostly behind the scenes.
Overall, I wouldn’t put The Red Fox Ran on my list of recommended novels. I didn’t hate it, but there are so many really great books out there. I do feel like the plot for a good story was there, but the book needs some work to achieve its potential. Since I got an ARC, the finalized version may reach that potential. If you’re looking for a YA fantasy book with an alternate history and tiny hints of Christian elements, this book could be for you.