Shades of Neverland

by Carey Corp

Wendy Darling's course is charted. Suffocated by her domineering aunt and expected to marry for status, the only place she can truly breathe is the theatre. When she witnesses Peter Neverland making his acting debut, her world opens to infinite possibilities. The moment Peter steps onto the stage, the boy who never intended to grow up discovers his true purpose. Surrounded by a humble troupe of players, Peter's so happy he could crow. Until the starry-eyed girl watching rapturously from the balcony alters his orbit. In that hallowed space of universal dreams, Peter and Wendy fall in love.

But when Wendy's aunt plots to separate the two, it sends them on different trajectories that will put an ocean between them. For Peter and Wendy's love to conquer the stars, it will take more than pixie dust. It will require the Neverlands, which are always seeking to break through, to perform a miracle.


"From theatre in London's West End, to Broadway, and Hollywood's nascent enterprise of moving pictures, Shades of Neverland takes you on a journey of faith, trust, and pixie dust past the second star to the right and straight on till happily ever after. Shades of Neverland is the continuation of Peter Pan's story that my heart needed!" - Lorie Langdon author of Disney Villains' Happily Never After series

Genres: Retellings, Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy, Ebooks, Fairy Tales

177 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2023

About the author

I am the author of several young adult books, including the DOON series from BLINK/HarperCollins, inspired by Lerner & Loewe's Brigadoon, and co-written w/Lorie Langdon.

*Please note this is an unmonitored account. I do love to connect with readers on Twitter and Facebook. Visit the Dooniverse for links: www.DoonSeries.com*

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Reviews

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a cute yet anxiety inducing read! 🤣 The whimsical writing helped lighten the uncertainty of what was going to happen! I loved the continuation of the OG Pan and Wendy story.

All in all a fun read

[Laura and Literature · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fun! If you’re like me and have always wondered about the in between of “Peter Pan” and “Hook”.. this book provides a fun option.

The writing was lovely and the illustrations were perfect.

This would be great for younger YA readers as well. 👍🏼

[Brittany Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

As atmospheric as a windswept painting, Shades of Neverland is a classic retelling with lovely dashes of nostalgia, wit, and good old-fashioned pining. I was charmed from the first page until the picture-perfect happy ending.

[Jaida · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ｡⋆⋆｡ﾟ☁︎｡⋆｡ ﾟ☾ ﾟ

Now Playing ♡ Kelsea Ballerini - Peter Pan
1:45 ──●── 3:20

This was so cute but also SO sad. I loved how the chapters had titles and the titles were great! There were so many cute parts with the thimbles, Shared dreams, the acorn necklace, and how Peter always stands in the shadows. The ending was so sad but also beautiful and I cried. Their relationship was far from perfect; it was messy and obsessive and complicated. The Characters did stupid things because of their love towards one another but I just loved this book and the characters. The Thimble at the end was so cute though! I think this is a great book for anyone who likes Peter Pan and wants to see a romance between Wendy and Peter.

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬
𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘪𝘵.”

The Characters
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wendy ~ I loved her. She was such a good character and I really liked her relationship with her best friend Meimie.

Peter ~ He leaves “kisses” (thimbles) on her windowsill every year on her birthday which is adorable! I absolutely loved his relationship with his adoptive older brother Griffin.

Griffin ~ He was such a good brother for Peter and I loved their dynamic!

Meimie ~ She was great. I really liked her!

James ~ I didn't really like him but he wasn't horrible.

“𝘐 𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘯𝘢𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 '𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘺 𝘐 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵.”

What To Expect
🌑 Peter Pan Retelling
🌑 Historical Fiction
🌑 Romance
🌑 Love At First Sight
🌑 He Falls First And Harder

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺. 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘺.”

Quotes
~~~~~~~
“Crumpling up the half-written letter into a paper ball, he hurled it into the ocean. Then he lifted his ever-present talisman reverently to his lips. Shutting his eyes, he made a wish on the second star to his right. Please, he beseeched the heavens, please work your will. In that moment the strangest of sensations settled over him and Peter felt the urge to crow.”

“Peter sought Wendy, but in all actuality, it felt as if he were seeking his very self.”

“I became a man because of you, Wendy.” Her eyes widened, and she gasped with feeling at some recrimination he did not intend. “No, Peter!” “Shhh, dearest,” he soothed, caressing her downy cheek. “I wanted to grow up–to become a man for you. You are my own… I love you, Wendy.” “I love you too, Peter. I always have.”

“𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘺, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘥𝘴. 𝘠𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘺, 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥.”

Content
~~~~~~~
❤️‍🔥Romance| Peter and Wendy long for each other, a few kisses with minimal details, dancing, near kisses,

🤬Language| D-mn,

🗡️Violence| Pirates attack in nightmares, fighting, play fighting,

🏳️‍🌈LGBTQ| none.

✝️Religion/Spirituality| Peter calls Wendy an angel multiple times,

🍷Alcohol/Drugs| Peter gets drunk when he's heartbroken and being an idiot, Peter and his friends drink casually,

⚠️Other| Death of a parent, Peter spends the night in his hotel room with a woman (nothing at all romantic happens they just talk and it's purely platonic but the press speculates about what happened) Adoption,

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a delightful, whimsical, fun continuation of the classic story of Peter Pan. If you ever wondered what would have happened if Peter decided to grow up and be with Wendy, this book is for you. Plus, theatre kids will also love the theatre setting of many parts of the book.

The plot was very fast-paced, so if you like slower paced books with more details and world building, you may not love this aspect of it. Personally, I loved the pace and that the story kept moving along. I finished this the day after starting it because it was just so easy and fun to read.

Both Peter and Wendy have amnesia and do not remember their adventures in Neverland, but have dreams throughout the book where they are both connected to Neverland still. I loved this detail, along with other characters in the book remembering glimpses of Neverland from their childhood. This plotline leads to some misunderstandings and miscommunication, which I usually don't like, but it didn't bother me as much in this.

Now, there were a few things I didn't love as much. I believe the book could've used more scenes between Peter and Wendy, instead of solely pining. I didn't mind the love at first sight trope, since we know they both did know each other before they "meet" in this book. But they barely even talked to each other in the book, and I would've liked at least a little more conversation.

Also, there were vaguely suggestive and weird comments scattered throughout the book that I could've done without, as well as a charcter trying to seduce Peter (though it wasn't detailed or graphic). Because of this, I wouldn't have read this book as a teen who was very cautious both what she read, which is disappointing because the magic of the Peter Pan story is for children and adults of every age, and with a handful of lines being left out this book could've been the same - a pure, sweet, innocent family tale. There is also one line that implies a background character is gay (and after looking it up, this character was a real person apparently). They were barely in the book at all, and I almost didn't even notice what the sentence was implying as it's very brief, but again, I felt like it was an unnecessary detail to include.

If it wasn't for these few issues, I probably would've give this 5 stars because it truly was delightful for the most part.

I received a free digital copy of this book as part of the Q&F Ink Team. All views are my own.

[Melissa Landers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: I'm critique partners with the author, and I read this in draft form.

This is one of my favorites from Carey. The story is beautifully written, romantic, and best of all...it has a happy ending. :)

[cianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a second there, I really thought I had found a new favorite book. The premise of this book is so unique and interesting. Peter growing up because he sees Wendy moving on, then the two of them, having forgotten their memories of Neverland, fall in love through the theatre? Um okay YES.

I loved the way Corp described Peter and Wendy's connection and found myself highlighting so much. Like YES Peter and Wendy are soulmates. Peter is Wendy's Peter, and Wendy is Peter's Wendy, and that's just how it is.

I really appreciated the clear love and respect Corp had for the original Peter Pan story. You could feel it in the Barrie-esque narration, the weaving of lines and scenes from Peter Pan and this book, and all the research she brought to life in this book, from references to The Little White Bird to the inclusion of historical characters and settings from Barrie's life. I especially appreciated how Corp centered on love for the theatre, since Peter and Wendy started out as a play.

This story explores growing up, losing your way, and having to figure out what pieces of your childhood self you might still need, an important theme as well as one that effectively plays off of the themes of the original Peter Pan.

That being said, the pieces never fully came together for me. The relationship between Peter and Wendy began to feel like insta-love as the story went on, despite knowing that these two DO in fact know each other. Because they don't remember knowing each other, and they don't talk to each other EVER, so everything is based on glances and one dance and these little confusing snippets of dreams where they don't even really talk. I finished the book feeling a bit robbed of their relationship. Yes, they're each other's person and they're so in love and it's all described beautifully but. What about actually seeing them together? Talking? Spending time together? It's a book full of frustrating miscommunications and near misses but rarely any actual interactions and never any communication! And everything just ends so abruptly and so much of the story feels dropped and I was just confused. There were also just a lot of odd moments and lines that rubbed me the wrong way.

Overall, this is a short and sweet read that I found myself speeding through, and I'd recommend it to Peter Pan fans if the premise sounds interesting, but it was a bit disappointing in the end.

[DJWman · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Shades of Neverland" by Carey Corp is a delightful continuation for fans of Peter Pan who have grown up but still hold onto the magic of childhood. The story follows Wendy Darling, who feels suffocated by her domineering aunt and societal expectations to marry for status. Her only solace is the theatre, where she witnesses Peter “Neverland's” acting debut and finds her world expanding with infinite possibilities.

Peter, on the other hand, discovers his true purpose on stage. Surrounded by a humble troupe of players, he is content until he “meets” Wendy, the starry-eyed girl who changes everything. Their love story unfolds in a hallowed space of universal dreams, but Wendy's aunt plots to separate them, putting an ocean between them. For their love to conquer the stars, it will take more than pixie dust—it will require a miracle from the Neverlands.

The novel beautifully explores the theme of growing up without losing one's childlike innocence, the tension between duty and heart, and what it means to be an adult. While it leans more towards magical realism, the shadow of Neverland is ever-present, though not the main focus. I would have liked more appearances from characters like Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys, rather than just in memories or dreams, but this would have complicated the amnesia plot.

Though not action-packed, the story pulls you along as you anxiously wait for Wendy and Peter to reunite. I would have appreciated more interactions between them to further develop their relationship, rather than so much pining, but that may be my impatience for their union. The inclusion of the theatre is a perfect fit for the dramatic Peter Pan, and the author skillfully writes in the style of J.M. Barrie, maintaining the classic feel of the original.

"Shades of Neverland" is a classic retelling with nostalgic charm, wit, and heartfelt longing. It continues the story of Peter and Wendy from J.M. Barrie's original "Peter Pan," capturing the trials they face including the loss of their memories of their time in Neverland, the romance they desire, and the forces trying to keep them apart. It’s a perfect addition to the canon for anyone who has always wanted a romance story between Peter and Wendy that follows the original, rather than being a mere retelling.

[Stephany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shades of Neverland is a fabulous continuation for fans of Peter Pan that have grown up, but not quite all the way.
Wendy is growing up and Peter is noticing her in a new way, in such a way that Peter can no longer fly. Can he be growing up too?

For those who want to see Peter with Wendy and not a great great granddaughter, this is the book for you. It explores the theme of growing up, but not losing your childlike innocence—of duty vs. heart and what it means to be an adult.

I would classify this book as more of a magical realism, shades of Neverland couldn’t be a more appropriate title. The shadow of Neverland is there, but it is not the focus of this story.

It’s not action packed, but the story pulls you along as you anxiously wait for Wendy and Peter to be together.

I loved the addition and importance of theatre in the story. I can’t think of a more perfect profession for our dramatic Peter Pan.

I also loved how the author wrote this continuation in the style of J.M. Barrie so it holds the same feel as the classic.

I think this book would make a lovely movie.

If you are a fan of Peter Pan and Wendy, then I highly recommend this book.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a unique story. Taking place after Wendy has returned to London, Peter Pan continues to visit every year, but in the shadows. As Wendy grows she forgets all about Peter and Neverland. As she turns 16, Peter spies her with a suitor and his pain leads to him tumbling from the sky and growing up. Having forgotten all about her and Neverland. Their journey to each other was tangled and tumultuous. They had love at first sight without a meeting, they were separated, there were misunderstandings. Indeed, there were some very teenager and childish reactions that compounded over again. We travel from London to America and back again. Some of the writing was different and unique, I can only guess that perhaps this way of writing was used to emulate the original author of Peter Pan. If Peter Pan is your favorite fairy tale, you may enjoy reading this as a continuation of their story. The romance was just kisses, intimacy level 2.

Content warnings: some innuendo, 2 instances of language

I received a complimentary ecopy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Hope Griffin Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This charming What If? story of Wendy Darling and Peter (Pan) Neverland is absolutely precious in its whimsical look at what happens to Wendy and Peter as Grown Ups.

The book follows Wendy as she is thrust into society after years of birthdays when Peter would visit her and give her a thimble - both a real one and what they called a "thimble" or a kiss. But Peter sees the young man who Wendy's Dowager Aunt wants to marry her off to "thimble" Wendy and is forced into a decision that leaves him bereft of his memories of Neverland except on the verge of his memory. And in both his and Wendy's dreams or rather nightmares.

This story captivated me with its charm and cleverness! I adored the way the author wove in so many details. Peter's rescue of an infant in Kensington Park. When Peter played the part of the swashbuckling D'Artanyan in The Three Musketeers so he could capture Wendy's eye as the theater patron in the first row. Griffin saluting Peter (subtle). Our Peter and Wendy are so immediately drawn to each other, and yet they keep having misfires. Wendy is scared of her feelings for Peter. Peter becomes frustrated and leaves. They have forgotten something very important, something their dreams are trying to convey to them - they need to remember their inner child. They would avoid miscommunication and pain if they had. I usually do not like the miscommunication trope. However, in this book, it was used in such a way that I didn't find it objectionable.

The ending, oh, the ending is superbly done. It was so satisfying. Thank you to the author and quill and flame publishers for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.

[✨silver.✨ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 "I-cant-believe-it-either" stars
No review mentions what you really need to know before reading this book, so I'll have to do it and sound like a villain. But hey, at least I'm honest.
- Peter and Wendy grew up to be weak and stupid.
- This book is best described as everything that ever made me angry in one package. I was annoyed, then seething, I kept reading but it was p a i n f u l.
- Double amnesia! And on top of that: assumptions, Big Misunderstandings, and manipulative females! Please just speak to each other, you idiots! Of course it was all used to create ~drama~.
- Griffin was the only sensible character.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you enjoy the story of Peter Pan and Wendy then you will love this take on the continuation of JM Barrie's story. It was whimsical and perfect for an older teen as it does have some odd lines in it that I don't think a middle schooler would understand and honestly the book could have done without.

This is a pretty short read and it does move somewhat fast although I would have enjoyed it better if there would have been more interactions between Peter and Wendy rather than them pining for each other from afar. This book is also told in narrative form so it was a different type of feeling as your read, especially for me I felt I couldn't fully connect to the characters.

Overall it was fun fantasy story and if you have an older teen then this may be something they enjoy!

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are my own.

[A.J. Skelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This continuation of the story of Peter and Wendy from J. M. Barrie's original Peter Pan is absolutely stunning. Written in the style of the original, Shades of Neverland follows nearly adult Wendy and Peter, the trials they face, the romance they want to share, and the forces designed to keep them apart. A perfect story to add to the cannon. ;)

[Alyssa Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

For anyone who grew up with Peter Pan and Wendy and wondered what would happen if they got together… this book is for you and it doesn’t disappoint! There was some back and forth on both parts but in the end true love won out and I was happy to see that.

[Millicent Allen · Rating 1 out of 5]

Everything moved too fast, and the dream sequences were a bit confusing.

[Christi Zubler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good Peter Pan retelling. And this book was a favorite one. I couldn’t get enough and didn’t want it to end.

[Crystal Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cute!!!!!!

So sweet and beautiful it's a must read for fairytale lovers. I loved every page.... has a hook feeling to the book

[Beatrice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so beautiful. The writing is elegant and the story is wonderfully weaved together.