Hooked by Emily Mcintire
⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 Stars)
Emily McIntire’s Hooked is a dark, seductive, and twisted reimagining of the classic Peter Pan tale. It’s the first book in her Never After series, where beloved fairy tales are transformed into gritty, morally gray, and deliciously compelling romances. This novel focuses on James "Hook" Barrie and Wendy Darling, weaving a story that’s far from Disney’s innocent whimsy.
Plot and Setting:
Set in a modern world full of danger, crime, and betrayal, Hooked introduces us to James Barrie, a ruthless and calculating crime boss with a thirst for revenge against his nemesis, Peter Michaels. Peter, in this version, is no hero but a powerful man whose actions have left scars on James’s life. Wendy Darling, Peter’s daughter, becomes the unwitting pawn in James’s game. But as James draws Wendy into his world, what begins as manipulation turns into a passionate and deeply emotional relationship.
Characters:
James "Hook" Barrie is the ultimate antihero: dark, brooding, and utterly magnetic. His tragic past and relentless pursuit of vengeance make him complex and compelling, and his softer moments with Wendy add depth to his character. Wendy, on the other hand, is far from the naïve girl of the original story. She’s strong-willed, intelligent, and unafraid to challenge James, which makes their dynamic sizzle with tension.
The chemistry between James and Wendy is electric, and their relationship evolves naturally, balancing intense attraction with vulnerability and emotional growth. McIntire excels at creating characters that feel raw and real, even in a world that’s steeped in danger and darkness.
Themes:
At its core, Hooked explores themes of revenge, redemption, and love’s transformative power. It delves into the scars of the past and how they shape who we are, offering a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. The novel also challenges traditional ideas of good versus evil, blurring the lines between hero and villain in a way that keeps readers questioning their loyalties.
Writing Style:
McIntire’s writing is captivating and atmospheric, drawing readers into the dark underbelly of her world. The dual POV narration allows us to see both James’s calculated mind and Wendy’s inner strength, making their journey even more engaging. The pacing is impeccable, with just the right mix of suspense, romance, and steamy scenes to keep readers hooked (pun intended) from start to finish.
Overall Impression:
Hooked is not for the faint of heart—it’s a dark romance with morally gray characters, intense emotions, and spicy scenes that push boundaries. But for those who enjoy a twisted fairy tale with a dash of danger and a whole lot of passion, this book is an absolute must-read. Emily McIntire has crafted a story that’s equal parts thrilling and tender, cementing her place as a master of dark romance.
If you love modern reimaginings of classic tales with antiheroes, sizzling chemistry, and a touch of darkness, Hooked is the perfect pick. Just be prepared to lose sleep—you won’t be able to put it down.