A review by myfictionalworld
Hooked by Emily McIntire

dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

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

4.0

PLEASE LOOK AT TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK!

Hooked is the very first book in the Never After Series. 

This book follows crime boss James, also known as Hook, who only has one purpose in life, to kill his enemy, Peter Michales for taking his family away from him. James sees his opportunity when Peter’s daughter, Wendy, comes into his bar, the Jolly Roger, by deciding to pursue her. During their interactions, James is matched with petty banter and funny remarks. While creating his perfect revenge, there is now a traitor within his organization and his revenge now has to come to a halt now that he views Wendy as more than a pawn.

I rated this book 4 stars. I was very excited to read this book simply because I’ve been in love with Captain Hook since Once Upon A Time. That actor did a phenomenal job acting as Captain Hook. That man was fine! Anyways, Hooked was a really good story. This was very dark and full of trauma. It was very sad reading about James’ very traumatic childhood. Nobody deserves any of what happened to him. 

I really enjoyed how the author tied in the original Peter Pan story into her novel in a darker way. It was very unique and creative. 

The only negative thing that I have to say about this book is the ending. I feel like it was an afterthought because the climax of the story basically happened within 5 to 7 pages. It wasn’t needed because none if it made sense. The plot twists raised a lot of questions about the whole story. We could’ve done without it and it would’ve still been a great book.

Overall, a great book. Looking forward to reading more in the Never After Series.