A review by all_things_books21
Scarlett and the Kiss Thief by Ivy Smoak

adventurous emotional funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I was blessed to receive an ARC of Scarlett and the Kiss Thief by Ivy Smoak, and I absolutely loved it! I originally discovered Ivy’s Hunted series back in the end of 2020. Now almost 5 years later, I get to go back where it all began, but with their children! 

Scarlett James is 17, and starting her senior year in high school. For as long as she can remember, she’s had a crush on Axel Stevens, but he never seemed to notice her that away before. After a summer of changes, she’s ready for him to finally notice her. First day of school comes, and he finally notices her, but not the way she wants him too. However, someone else does notice her, Jacob Miller, Axel’s best friend. Scarlett finds herself confused over her feelings for the boys, when an unknown guy kisses her in the close, stealing her first kiss. Can Scarlett discover who the kiss thief is before she falls to hard for one the boys?

The chaos in this book had me cracking up. Getting to learn about the original 4’s children brings back so many emotions. The children share qualities from their parents, making the original story seem alive again. I absolutely loved finding random things throughout this book relating to other books from Ivy. 

All in all, Scarlett and the Kiss Thief was better than I expected. With the way the book ended, I can’t wait to read book 2. If you haven’t read at least the Hunted series, I’d go back and read that series first. However, Ivy connects most of her books so you’d probably want to read the Hunted series, the Empire High series, and the Men of Manhattan series. These three series will give background on most of the adults  mentioned.