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Inkbound #2
Inked in Onyx: A Twisted Fairy Tale
One fairytale down, one pirate-infested nightmare to go...
Molly, my ever-loyal falcon, Fetch, and I barely survived evil wizard Relyk and escaped Alabaster, only to get cannon-bombed into our next story. Literally. Peter Pan and Tinkerbell swoop in with a rescue, whisking us off to Neverland. At first, it’s all glitter and good times on an island straight out of a daydream…until they mention a magical clock they’ve been hunting.
The same clock I need to fulfill my destiny.
So we do what any desperate main characters would do—we steal their boat and vanish into the night to get a jump on finding the clock. Too bad we sail straight into the hands of pirates.
And here’s the real Their captain is the man I’ve been dreaming of since childhood.
The twist? He’s not charming. He’s not kind. He’s not even remotely sane.
He’s the most dreaded pirate of all time.
And he thinks I’m a boy.
Now we’re tangled in secrets, trying to blend in, plotting yet another escape—until I find out the man of my dreams is after the same enchanted clock. The one he stole from Peter Pan a decade ago and lost to a massive, man-eating crocodile…along with his hand.
With reluctant alliances, sea monsters, and an unholy attraction to an even unholier pirate, this story might end with a bang or me walking the plank.
Molly, my ever-loyal falcon, Fetch, and I barely survived evil wizard Relyk and escaped Alabaster, only to get cannon-bombed into our next story. Literally. Peter Pan and Tinkerbell swoop in with a rescue, whisking us off to Neverland. At first, it’s all glitter and good times on an island straight out of a daydream…until they mention a magical clock they’ve been hunting.
The same clock I need to fulfill my destiny.
So we do what any desperate main characters would do—we steal their boat and vanish into the night to get a jump on finding the clock. Too bad we sail straight into the hands of pirates.
And here’s the real Their captain is the man I’ve been dreaming of since childhood.
The twist? He’s not charming. He’s not kind. He’s not even remotely sane.
He’s the most dreaded pirate of all time.
And he thinks I’m a boy.
Now we’re tangled in secrets, trying to blend in, plotting yet another escape—until I find out the man of my dreams is after the same enchanted clock. The one he stole from Peter Pan a decade ago and lost to a massive, man-eating crocodile…along with his hand.
With reluctant alliances, sea monsters, and an unholy attraction to an even unholier pirate, this story might end with a bang or me walking the plank.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2025
1225 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
161 books7,259 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
May 29, 2025
This was such a great continuation from Inked in Ashes! I absolutely loved meeting Pan, Tink, and Hook in this installment. This was such a fun adventure in Neverland and I can’t wait to see where the story goes! The way this one ended has me needing the next book immediately! Especially after the teases of where this adventure takes us next!
Read this if you like:
🏴☠️ Peter Pan Retelling
🏴☠️ Found Family
🏴☠️ Morally Grey Love Interest
Thank you to the author for the gifted arc.
Read this if you like:
🏴☠️ Peter Pan Retelling
🏴☠️ Found Family
🏴☠️ Morally Grey Love Interest
Thank you to the author for the gifted arc.
August 5, 2025
Harmony, Molly and our favorite falcon Fetch are back in another awesome fairy tale retelling from Shannon Mayer, Inked in Onyx!
This time, after narrowly escaping the evil wizard Relyk, our favorites are now thrust into a world of pirates, Peter Pan and Tinkerbell as they have landed in Neverland! Now everyone is on the hunt for the clock, yes the same clock, while also trying to stay out of the clutches of…. The captain from her dreams?!
This adventure is just as exciting as the first! I love the characters in this series, especially Harmony our strong, courageous, and dedicated FMC and her bestie the sweet and funny Molly.
We were introduced to some new characters as well, including Peter Pan, Tink, and Captain Hook - but they are not the same as we are used to. I love that they have backstories and that they are not what they seem. There is also an awesome slow burn that will absolutely make the butterflies in your stomach flutter!
Shannon also created another vivid and colorful world of terrifying monsters, action and adventure, and high stakes. You will laugh, most definitely cry, and be completely enthralled with this story.
The hardest part of all? Waiting for the next one!
This time, after narrowly escaping the evil wizard Relyk, our favorites are now thrust into a world of pirates, Peter Pan and Tinkerbell as they have landed in Neverland! Now everyone is on the hunt for the clock, yes the same clock, while also trying to stay out of the clutches of…. The captain from her dreams?!
This adventure is just as exciting as the first! I love the characters in this series, especially Harmony our strong, courageous, and dedicated FMC and her bestie the sweet and funny Molly.
We were introduced to some new characters as well, including Peter Pan, Tink, and Captain Hook - but they are not the same as we are used to. I love that they have backstories and that they are not what they seem. There is also an awesome slow burn that will absolutely make the butterflies in your stomach flutter!
Shannon also created another vivid and colorful world of terrifying monsters, action and adventure, and high stakes. You will laugh, most definitely cry, and be completely enthralled with this story.
The hardest part of all? Waiting for the next one!
June 10, 2025
I absolutely loved the second book in the Inkbound series! I will read anything Shannon writes and this book has everything you need in a fairytale: villains, magic, and a determined FMC. The relationships between the characters as they make their way through the pages is fantastic. I just can’t wait to dive into the next story!
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
✨ Fairytale Fantasy ✨ Slow Burn Romance ✨ Found Family ✨ Lost Heir ✨ Baddie FMC ✨ Secret Identity ✨ Courtly Intrigue ✨ Dreamwalker Magic ✨ Falcon Animal Sidekick ✨ Hilarious Banter
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
✨ Fairytale Fantasy ✨ Slow Burn Romance ✨ Found Family ✨ Lost Heir ✨ Baddie FMC ✨ Secret Identity ✨ Courtly Intrigue ✨ Dreamwalker Magic ✨ Falcon Animal Sidekick ✨ Hilarious Banter
June 4, 2025
Harmony + Hook
-romantasy slow burn
-fairytale mashup
-trapped in a fable
-bound by magic
-lost heir
-badass fmc
-book 2/3
okay i am actually SOOO blown away & impressed by all the little fairytale nuances! its like retelling but yet still SOOOOO unique!! i am still sooooo stunned by this story...i have no idea whats going on...& i couldn't enjoy it more!!
-romantasy slow burn
-fairytale mashup
-trapped in a fable
-bound by magic
-lost heir
-badass fmc
-book 2/3
okay i am actually SOOO blown away & impressed by all the little fairytale nuances! its like retelling but yet still SOOOOO unique!! i am still sooooo stunned by this story...i have no idea whats going on...& i couldn't enjoy it more!!
June 10, 2025
This was an outstanding book 2 in this series. Our story continues with our FMC and her best friend being dropped into the world of Peter Pan. However, things are not quite as black and white, good and bad as we might have previously thought. Our FMC is brought face to face with the infamous man she has been dreaming about for years, only she is not too happy with exactly who he is. She is forced to take on some outrageous monsters in order to accomplish her next task in order to save their world and move on to save her own as well. She meets "new" characters that are playing new roles and ends up making some very good friends along the way. The ending had me tearing up and screaming all at the same time!!
May 22, 2025
A well loved Neverland fairy tale reimagined with a fresh, unique twist! I absolutely loved every moment of it! I didn't know who to trust and was on guard the entire time. The characters felt like family, and I just loved the way they connected with Harmony and Molly. There are some hilarious, and sweet moments. I loved the world building and twists and turns in this one. *Screaming, crying, throwing glitter!!*
It's so good. My heart is not okay. The narrator, Amelia Hugh is amazing! I loved the tones and inflections she used! I honestly felt like I was there in the pages. Amelia breathes life into the characters. So good! If you're looking for an addicting listen pick up this series. I'm obsessed with this one!
A very special thanks to Simon Maverick for the gifted ALC.
It's so good. My heart is not okay. The narrator, Amelia Hugh is amazing! I loved the tones and inflections she used! I honestly felt like I was there in the pages. Amelia breathes life into the characters. So good! If you're looking for an addicting listen pick up this series. I'm obsessed with this one!
A very special thanks to Simon Maverick for the gifted ALC.
June 11, 2025
What if everything you ever knew just got thrown out the window? Well, that is exactly Harmony's life.
She turned the page (literally) and left behind a twisted Cinderella nightmare. Now, she's in Neverland where nothing is what it seems. This is Peter Pan but darker! It is absolutely delicious.
A bit of a slow start for my tastes but it doesn't take long for me to be sucked into this story and eagerly pageturning to find out what is going to happen next. We get a fantastic cast of characters, tons of drama, some spicy romance heating up the pages and...a Godzilla size croc?! Hey...you tell me. Lol
One thing is for sure...there is a wicked witch cackling somewhere and Harmony better keep one eye open for trouble.
We honestly can't wait for the next book in this series because things just keep getting better and better.
She turned the page (literally) and left behind a twisted Cinderella nightmare. Now, she's in Neverland where nothing is what it seems. This is Peter Pan but darker! It is absolutely delicious.
A bit of a slow start for my tastes but it doesn't take long for me to be sucked into this story and eagerly pageturning to find out what is going to happen next. We get a fantastic cast of characters, tons of drama, some spicy romance heating up the pages and...a Godzilla size croc?! Hey...you tell me. Lol
One thing is for sure...there is a wicked witch cackling somewhere and Harmony better keep one eye open for trouble.
We honestly can't wait for the next book in this series because things just keep getting better and better.
May 29, 2025
Inked in Onyx: A Twisted Fairytale
Inkbound Book 2
By: Shannon Mayer
It’ll be hard to top Inked in Onyx because Peter Pan is my absolute favorite retelling. But then again as soon as I read the last word, I said a bad word because do I really have to wait until September for book 3?!
Fierce. Loyal. 2 words that describe Harmony. I love love love her, she is def in my top 5 best FMCs. Harmony is on a thrilling, magical quest to get herself home.. I LOVE how Shannon set this up through different retellings. But book 2… whew, it’s golden. Harmony alongside her bestie found themselves dropped in Neverland. It’s sketchy, I questioned so much but harmony pushed through and found herself in front of the man that she has had in her dreams for as long as she can remember… who is none other than Captain Hook. 😍 Each character has their own little story and I love it, I loved how it ended well for the most part. Because I couldn’t believe what I thought was about to happen but Shannon made another twist and I giggled and then cussed because cliffhangers are NOT my friend.
Also, Harmony is funny and selfless so I guess 4 words. 😆
You HAVE to read these in order as they are not standalones. 5 ⭐️ Def a slow burn and spice is low but fantasy high. Must read.
#inkedinashes #inkedinonyx #inkboundseries #shannonmayer #twistedfairytaleretelling #slowburnromance #secretidentity #foundfamily #fantasyromance
Inkbound Book 2
By: Shannon Mayer
It’ll be hard to top Inked in Onyx because Peter Pan is my absolute favorite retelling. But then again as soon as I read the last word, I said a bad word because do I really have to wait until September for book 3?!
Fierce. Loyal. 2 words that describe Harmony. I love love love her, she is def in my top 5 best FMCs. Harmony is on a thrilling, magical quest to get herself home.. I LOVE how Shannon set this up through different retellings. But book 2… whew, it’s golden. Harmony alongside her bestie found themselves dropped in Neverland. It’s sketchy, I questioned so much but harmony pushed through and found herself in front of the man that she has had in her dreams for as long as she can remember… who is none other than Captain Hook. 😍 Each character has their own little story and I love it, I loved how it ended well for the most part. Because I couldn’t believe what I thought was about to happen but Shannon made another twist and I giggled and then cussed because cliffhangers are NOT my friend.
Also, Harmony is funny and selfless so I guess 4 words. 😆
You HAVE to read these in order as they are not standalones. 5 ⭐️ Def a slow burn and spice is low but fantasy high. Must read.
#inkedinashes #inkedinonyx #inkboundseries #shannonmayer #twistedfairytaleretelling #slowburnromance #secretidentity #foundfamily #fantasyromance
August 9, 2025
ARC REVIEW 4.5 ⭐️
Shannon Mayer remains queen of world building, bada** female main characters, and bringing characters to life. Book 2 in the Inkbound series, Moll and Harmony continue their journey to save their world. This time they end up in Neverland, full of familiar faces with a twist, not everything is what it seems.
I loved how Shannon can always keep me on my toes! There are so many obstacles these characters have to overcome and I love the way their perseverance, determination and resilience are displayed. This book has everything you want in a fantasy: slow burn, humor, a morally grey MMC, fierce FMC, and found family. I love the bond these characters have and I cannot WAIT to see what happens next!!! Definitely need to read these in order. ☺️ check out the Inkbound series on KU.
#inkbound #inkedinashes #inkedinonyx #shannonmayer #slowburnromance #secretidentity #foundfamily #fantasyromance
Shannon Mayer remains queen of world building, bada** female main characters, and bringing characters to life. Book 2 in the Inkbound series, Moll and Harmony continue their journey to save their world. This time they end up in Neverland, full of familiar faces with a twist, not everything is what it seems.
I loved how Shannon can always keep me on my toes! There are so many obstacles these characters have to overcome and I love the way their perseverance, determination and resilience are displayed. This book has everything you want in a fantasy: slow burn, humor, a morally grey MMC, fierce FMC, and found family. I love the bond these characters have and I cannot WAIT to see what happens next!!! Definitely need to read these in order. ☺️ check out the Inkbound series on KU.
#inkbound #inkedinashes #inkedinonyx #shannonmayer #slowburnromance #secretidentity #foundfamily #fantasyromance
October 21, 2025
This trilogy is so unique. It took me a bit to piece together some of the clues. I really enjoyed this twisted spin on Peter Pan and tinker bell. If you loved the show “Once Upon a Time” and had a think of Captain Hook, you’ll love this book. I loved the tense connection Harmony has with him. Even though he is a dangerous pirate captain.
The adventure is fun. I loved the found family, continued danger and Harmony and Molly continue their quest.
What first felt odd seeing elements of the wizard of Oz in Cinderella and Peter Pan, its setting up for what I think Book 3 will be: a show down with the wicked witch. And hopefully Harmony connecting with her actual world.
The premise of being in a different story is fun. And seeing some of the same characters pop up along the way is fun! Even though they don’t realize it. It’s a unique and fun story line. I’m excited to conclude the journey in book 3.
The adventure is fun. I loved the found family, continued danger and Harmony and Molly continue their quest.
What first felt odd seeing elements of the wizard of Oz in Cinderella and Peter Pan, its setting up for what I think Book 3 will be: a show down with the wicked witch. And hopefully Harmony connecting with her actual world.
The premise of being in a different story is fun. And seeing some of the same characters pop up along the way is fun! Even though they don’t realize it. It’s a unique and fun story line. I’m excited to conclude the journey in book 3.
June 10, 2025
I write this with emotion still heavy from what I just read so keep that in mind. These unique fairytale retellings have captured my mind and heart in a tight grip. I can’t get over the creativity it took to keep the heart of the story while morphing into its own adventure.
Harmony just becomes more and more real to me with each chapter in each book. I enjoy seeing how her character grows and develops as she works toward becoming the woman she will become.
James is the perfect MMC. That is all. I can’t go into detail without revealing too much.
I love Molly. She is a loyal best friend and her witty remarks are always needed. All the additional side characters we meet just add to the story. It’s wild that they feel so fleshed out. They make me chuckle, get frustrated, and finally made me cry.
This is quickly becoming a favored series so I suggest getting in on this one ASAP.
Harmony just becomes more and more real to me with each chapter in each book. I enjoy seeing how her character grows and develops as she works toward becoming the woman she will become.
James is the perfect MMC. That is all. I can’t go into detail without revealing too much.
I love Molly. She is a loyal best friend and her witty remarks are always needed. All the additional side characters we meet just add to the story. It’s wild that they feel so fleshed out. They make me chuckle, get frustrated, and finally made me cry.
This is quickly becoming a favored series so I suggest getting in on this one ASAP.
September 11, 2025
Peter Pan Retelling
So good! This was a Peter Pan retelling. Peter, Tink, the Lost Boys, and Hook are all in this one. Along with Hook being the captain of a ship and Peter living on an island called Neverland... Peter is a boy just like in the fairytale and Tink is gorgeous with curves and wings too....but something nefarious lurks under her beauty.
The beginning of the book jumps right in to continue the story from where Inked in Ashes ended. We still follow Harmony as she navigates her new found powers, a new world, another story, old friends that become new friends, and continues her hunt to fulfill the prophecy.
Looks like our MMCs from book 1 and 2 are going to clash in the next book and I can't wait!!
So good! This was a Peter Pan retelling. Peter, Tink, the Lost Boys, and Hook are all in this one. Along with Hook being the captain of a ship and Peter living on an island called Neverland... Peter is a boy just like in the fairytale and Tink is gorgeous with curves and wings too....but something nefarious lurks under her beauty.
The beginning of the book jumps right in to continue the story from where Inked in Ashes ended. We still follow Harmony as she navigates her new found powers, a new world, another story, old friends that become new friends, and continues her hunt to fulfill the prophecy.
Looks like our MMCs from book 1 and 2 are going to clash in the next book and I can't wait!!
May 22, 2025
Shannon Mayer has me hooked. This series follows Harmony Fallowell in her quest to find her way home. A home she has no memory of. As she turns the pages on each chapter she gets a bit closer to her home. She must finish each story and learn more about her powers. I loved this inverted take on Peter Pan. There are surprises and strong relationships that tug at your heart. I need book 3 asap, I need to know what happens next.
I received an advance review copy for free from Simon Maverick, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free from Simon Maverick, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 8, 2025
This book picks up right where Ashes ends and while book 1 was major Cinderella vibes, this one give us a darker Neverland and I was here for every single page 🙌🏻 I loved watching the girls grow as individuals and in their relationship with each other. Shannon’s world building is some of my favorite and I think it really shines through in this book.
I knew the ending was coming but it still was a punch to the gut a bit. I’m so excited to see where book 3 goes, and really hoping to see a bit more building on a *certain* slow burn relationship 👀
I knew the ending was coming but it still was a punch to the gut a bit. I’m so excited to see where book 3 goes, and really hoping to see a bit more building on a *certain* slow burn relationship 👀
August 26, 2025
Another 5 Star read from Shannon Mayer!
This is book 2, after inked in ashes in the inkbound series!
This book takes us into Neverland where we meet Pan, Tinkerbell and Hook! This was such a fun retelling and follows the journey of the clock that everyone seems to be searching for.
Fairytale retelling
Found family
Strong FMC
Secret identity (hook think she’s a he)
Magic
Sidekicks
Slow burn
Can’t wait for book 3 in this trilogy!!!
This is book 2, after inked in ashes in the inkbound series!
This book takes us into Neverland where we meet Pan, Tinkerbell and Hook! This was such a fun retelling and follows the journey of the clock that everyone seems to be searching for.
Fairytale retelling
Found family
Strong FMC
Secret identity (hook think she’s a he)
Magic
Sidekicks
Slow burn
Can’t wait for book 3 in this trilogy!!!
June 14, 2025
This second installment was riveting. Call me a Hook fan forever. Loved seeing Harmony’s growth and strength. The secondary found family of pirates were wonderful. We’re heading for Ca’an Saas! You need to read Inked in Ashes first. This is definitely not a standalone. Looking forward to Inked in Emeralds in September
July 27, 2025
4.25 ⭐️ I ended up enjoying the continuation of this series more than the first book. This story pulled on my heart strings a little bit, plus I’m really into the different depictions of well known fairy tales. I find the romance part of it all kind of confusing and random, but I am guessing we will understand it further in the third book and I look forward to reading it! All in all, I am into the story and am still finding it to be a unique read.
January 13, 2026
Hook 🪝 yes please!!
June 26, 2025
Unbelievably good!!!
This is by far the coolest book!! I have had so much fun, reading it, from one moment to the next you never know what’s gonna happen. This is the craziest ,coolest book and one I am definitely going to have to buy for my collection.
This is by far the coolest book!! I have had so much fun, reading it, from one moment to the next you never know what’s gonna happen. This is the craziest ,coolest book and one I am definitely going to have to buy for my collection.
August 8, 2025
This was even better than the first book! A Peter Pan retelling with so many twists! Once again, Amelia Hugh did a fabulous job with the narration. I’m so impressed with how she brings each character to life. I highly recommend listening to this series! I flew through this book because I couldn’t stop listening. It took me less than 48 hours. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
June 16, 2025
Needs better editing
This book starts with a fairly detailed recap of book one, which I appreciate. However, I will note that there’s at least one thing (maybe two) mentioned here that I swear was not in book one, which I only read a couple weeks ago. I don’t remember our FMC, Harmony, knowing or learning anything about having to collect three magical items and I don’t remember Duncan’s whisper power affecting his sanity.
The first chapter starts immediately from where books 1 left off. Harm and Molly are in an ocean with a pirate ship bearing down on them. As expected, they’ve entered Neverland. They’re rescued by Peter Pan and Tinkerbell, who are a couple. There’s 3 other kids on the island; Caleb, Cissy, and Tristan.
There’s something up with Pan and Tink, not all is as it seems. I’d wager they’re only together because they trauma bonded and Tink is decidedly jealous. Not to mention they only ever intended to rescue boys, Cissy was an accident, and that screams dodgy.
SPOILER:
The man who Harm has spent her life dreaming about, is none other than Captain Hook.
This book needs a better editing, there’s lots of instances of completely incorrect words. I.e. drive-heaving instead of dry-heaving.
There’s a very small amount of smut in this book (two scenes) but it’s well written and fits in with the story well.
Unlike the previous book, there’s no melding of fairytales, this is straight Peter Pan, but not as you traditionally know it.
SPOILER:
The book ends with Harm entering Oz, presumably our final story before she manages to make it home.
This book starts with a fairly detailed recap of book one, which I appreciate. However, I will note that there’s at least one thing (maybe two) mentioned here that I swear was not in book one, which I only read a couple weeks ago. I don’t remember our FMC, Harmony, knowing or learning anything about having to collect three magical items and I don’t remember Duncan’s whisper power affecting his sanity.
The first chapter starts immediately from where books 1 left off. Harm and Molly are in an ocean with a pirate ship bearing down on them. As expected, they’ve entered Neverland. They’re rescued by Peter Pan and Tinkerbell, who are a couple. There’s 3 other kids on the island; Caleb, Cissy, and Tristan.
There’s something up with Pan and Tink, not all is as it seems. I’d wager they’re only together because they trauma bonded and Tink is decidedly jealous. Not to mention they only ever intended to rescue boys, Cissy was an accident, and that screams dodgy.
SPOILER:
The man who Harm has spent her life dreaming about, is none other than Captain Hook.
This book needs a better editing, there’s lots of instances of completely incorrect words. I.e. drive-heaving instead of dry-heaving.
There’s a very small amount of smut in this book (two scenes) but it’s well written and fits in with the story well.
Unlike the previous book, there’s no melding of fairytales, this is straight Peter Pan, but not as you traditionally know it.
SPOILER:
The book ends with Harm entering Oz, presumably our final story before she manages to make it home.
May 26, 2025
I give this book 4 1/2⭐️ I really enjoyed it , it was fun , entertaining love the twist on the Peter Pan retailing, fun magic system and I love the whole being stuck in a book and having to go on a quest to get out of the book
June 5, 2025
Daughter. Tinker. Pirate. Mage.
Over the last 6 months, I've fallen in love with Peter Pan retellings. Inked in Onyx hit the spot and then some!
Harmony and Molly's story picks up where Inked in Ashes leaves off, and we find them treading water with a pirate ship towards them. Cannons boom, causing turbulent waves as they crash into the vast ocean. Harmony and Molly quickly realize they’ve landed in the middle of a hostile fight.
Dropped into another world full of magic, Harmony must determine whom to trust. Everything is not what it seems, so she must proceed carefully. Who is friend? Who is foe? They're all after the same clock, one that Harmony needs to fulfill her destiny.
Look for glimpses of old friends, new ones in the making, and lots of adventure!
Let me tell you, I am so in love with this version of Captain James Hook! It's easy to see why many people fear him, but even more respect him. Hook is ruthless. He's loyal. His backstory is utterly heartbreaking. James is definitely a part of Harmony's story. However, does he play a more crucial long-term role? Is he part of her destiny?
Shannon Mayer has a way of writing fast-paced stories with unique magic systems and enticing foreshadowing, making them interesting, exciting, and unputdownable.
Once you've inhaled this book, be on the lookout for Inked in Emerald, the final book of the Inkbound series. It arrives in September, which cannot come soon enough.
Will Harmony discover where she truly belongs? Will she get her happily ever after? I need to know how this story ends!
📚 Quotes: 📚
“As much as I try, I can’t get you out of my head. It’s like you have me under a spell, little sea witch.”
Home. A place I didn’t remember, but longed for with every fiber of my being. The only way to get back there was by seeing this through. And yeah, maybe I’d taken one step forward, two steps back. But I was still in the fight.
He might be right about the muscle, but he was wrong about the heart. Iron heart, forged in the flames of poverty, fear and questionable decisions.
"I'm going to ruin my whole life for you, aren't I?"
“You’re strong. I see so much power in you.”
“My guess is that our fate isn’t yet determined and whatever belongs there is still being written.”
Fucking hell. Captain James Tyler Hook had a date with death. And he couldn’t fucking wait.
The man had the heart of a lion and the soul of a hero. The world needed him in it. And once we got through this, I was going to find a way to make him see it...
“Being brave isn’t about being fearless, Harmony. It’s about accepting that some things are scary and not letting that stop you."
💫 Tropes: 💫
• Slow-burn romance
• Fairytale fantasy
• Found family
• Lost heir
• Secret identity/royal
• Kickass heroine
• Dreamwalker
Over the last 6 months, I've fallen in love with Peter Pan retellings. Inked in Onyx hit the spot and then some!
Harmony and Molly's story picks up where Inked in Ashes leaves off, and we find them treading water with a pirate ship towards them. Cannons boom, causing turbulent waves as they crash into the vast ocean. Harmony and Molly quickly realize they’ve landed in the middle of a hostile fight.
Dropped into another world full of magic, Harmony must determine whom to trust. Everything is not what it seems, so she must proceed carefully. Who is friend? Who is foe? They're all after the same clock, one that Harmony needs to fulfill her destiny.
Look for glimpses of old friends, new ones in the making, and lots of adventure!
Let me tell you, I am so in love with this version of Captain James Hook! It's easy to see why many people fear him, but even more respect him. Hook is ruthless. He's loyal. His backstory is utterly heartbreaking. James is definitely a part of Harmony's story. However, does he play a more crucial long-term role? Is he part of her destiny?
Shannon Mayer has a way of writing fast-paced stories with unique magic systems and enticing foreshadowing, making them interesting, exciting, and unputdownable.
Once you've inhaled this book, be on the lookout for Inked in Emerald, the final book of the Inkbound series. It arrives in September, which cannot come soon enough.
Will Harmony discover where she truly belongs? Will she get her happily ever after? I need to know how this story ends!
📚 Quotes: 📚
“As much as I try, I can’t get you out of my head. It’s like you have me under a spell, little sea witch.”
Home. A place I didn’t remember, but longed for with every fiber of my being. The only way to get back there was by seeing this through. And yeah, maybe I’d taken one step forward, two steps back. But I was still in the fight.
He might be right about the muscle, but he was wrong about the heart. Iron heart, forged in the flames of poverty, fear and questionable decisions.
"I'm going to ruin my whole life for you, aren't I?"
“You’re strong. I see so much power in you.”
“My guess is that our fate isn’t yet determined and whatever belongs there is still being written.”
Fucking hell. Captain James Tyler Hook had a date with death. And he couldn’t fucking wait.
The man had the heart of a lion and the soul of a hero. The world needed him in it. And once we got through this, I was going to find a way to make him see it...
“Being brave isn’t about being fearless, Harmony. It’s about accepting that some things are scary and not letting that stop you."
💫 Tropes: 💫
• Slow-burn romance
• Fairytale fantasy
• Found family
• Lost heir
• Secret identity/royal
• Kickass heroine
• Dreamwalker
June 19, 2025
Shannon Mayer’s Inked in Onyx is a rollicking continuation of her fairytale-fusion fantasy that plunges us headfirst from one enchanted disaster into another—with sass, snark, and a seriously deranged pirate leading the charge. Picking up in the wake of Inked in Ashes, this sequel trades one treacherous land for another, this time dropping Harm, Molly, Fetch, and chaos incarnate into the dream/nightmare landscape of Neverland, and beyond.
Neverland isn’t the nostalgic escape of childhood memories—it’s glittery, yes, but there's an undercurrent of menace. And when the clock everyone wants turns out to be tied to Harm’s fate and to Captain Hook’s haunted past, the stakes spike fast and hard. Hook, in Mayer’s hands, is a fever dream of madness and magnetism—feral, broken, and irresistible. Their chemistry simmers from the moment he sees Harm disguised as a boy, and watching it unravel into reluctant trust and perilous tension is as much fun as it is nerve-wracking.
There’s a certain chaotic rhythm to the pacing—plot twists piled upon plot twists, glitter-drenched betrayals, monstrous obstacles, and a love-hate thread that burns in the background. Mayer’s greatest strength lies in how she balances romantic tension with rip-roaring action and irreverent humour. I laughed. I gasped. I sometimes wanted to shake Harm for her recklessness, but I never stopped rooting for her.
That said, this second instalment doesn’t quite stick the landing emotionally. Some character beats (particularly between Harm and Hook) feel underdeveloped—like the emotional payoff was waiting on the horizon but not quite within reach. And with the story careening from one high-octane moment to another, quieter introspection sometimes gets swallowed in the noise.
Still, Inked in Onyx is delicious fun. It’s sharp-edged, flirtatious, and wholly unafraid to burn fairytale tropes to the ground. With humongous crocodiles, identity mishaps, dreamers-to-lovers tension, and a heroine trying to rewrite her fate one chaotic decision at a time, it’s a story that refuses to play it safe—and I’m absolutely on board for whatever storm comes next.
A glittering, swashbuckling fever dream of danger and desire, Inked in Onyx doesn’t always take the time to breathe—but when it hits, it soars. Buckle in and bring a sword. You’ll need it.
Neverland isn’t the nostalgic escape of childhood memories—it’s glittery, yes, but there's an undercurrent of menace. And when the clock everyone wants turns out to be tied to Harm’s fate and to Captain Hook’s haunted past, the stakes spike fast and hard. Hook, in Mayer’s hands, is a fever dream of madness and magnetism—feral, broken, and irresistible. Their chemistry simmers from the moment he sees Harm disguised as a boy, and watching it unravel into reluctant trust and perilous tension is as much fun as it is nerve-wracking.
There’s a certain chaotic rhythm to the pacing—plot twists piled upon plot twists, glitter-drenched betrayals, monstrous obstacles, and a love-hate thread that burns in the background. Mayer’s greatest strength lies in how she balances romantic tension with rip-roaring action and irreverent humour. I laughed. I gasped. I sometimes wanted to shake Harm for her recklessness, but I never stopped rooting for her.
That said, this second instalment doesn’t quite stick the landing emotionally. Some character beats (particularly between Harm and Hook) feel underdeveloped—like the emotional payoff was waiting on the horizon but not quite within reach. And with the story careening from one high-octane moment to another, quieter introspection sometimes gets swallowed in the noise.
Still, Inked in Onyx is delicious fun. It’s sharp-edged, flirtatious, and wholly unafraid to burn fairytale tropes to the ground. With humongous crocodiles, identity mishaps, dreamers-to-lovers tension, and a heroine trying to rewrite her fate one chaotic decision at a time, it’s a story that refuses to play it safe—and I’m absolutely on board for whatever storm comes next.
A glittering, swashbuckling fever dream of danger and desire, Inked in Onyx doesn’t always take the time to breathe—but when it hits, it soars. Buckle in and bring a sword. You’ll need it.
June 17, 2025
Excuse me? HWAAATT??? That’s the ending? HIM? My brain is twisted. Like is it HIM him, or just a version? I have so many questions. Like I was so happy at the jump, and then you threw that curveball and I’m like, don’t tell me we’re about to face some jealousy in book 3?
So if you enjoy a left field fairytale retelling of Neverland where the hero and villain isn’t who you think, and nothing is quite as it seems, you HAVE to dive into this book. But before you do, you gotta go back and read book 1, Inked in Ashes.
Harmony has quickly become one of my favorite FMCs. She’s smart, loyal, resilient and just real. She doesn’t shy away from pain and trauma, she isn’t afraid to make hard decisions, and she cares deeply for those she considers close, but also for people in general. And she will sacrifice her own comfort to see those she loves happy and safe.
And I’m obsessed with her relationship with Fetch, but we aren’t gonna talk about that much or I’ll get emotional. Same with Molly. Molly is her ride or die bestie who has never shied away from danger when it comes to helping Harm. She’s that bestie every girl dreams of having who will build you up and fight by your side no matter the battle and never bat an eye. But that big heart of hers may cost a lot…
Can we also talk about my unhealthy obsession with pirates? Like why are they some of my favorite characters in any series? That’s one reason this book is even better than book one to me, which is saying a lot. It’s got wit and banter, but with PIRATES!
Including our own Captain Hook…and he’s far from the typical Disney character with the goofy mustache and oversized eyes and weirdly-shaped hair….more like a fit, headstrong, intelligent, handsome, dark and broody male that has secrets we all want to know and powers we’d only dream of.
Add in the crazy dreams Harmony has had for years, the fairy who isn’t a fairy, the man-child playing the hero, and the lost kids, and you’ve got yourself a story. Oh, and don’t forget the crazy witch who keeps popping up trying to kill Harmony and crew!
One fairytale down…one pirate-infested nightmare to go. Who will save the day, and who will walk the plank?
So if you enjoy a left field fairytale retelling of Neverland where the hero and villain isn’t who you think, and nothing is quite as it seems, you HAVE to dive into this book. But before you do, you gotta go back and read book 1, Inked in Ashes.
Harmony has quickly become one of my favorite FMCs. She’s smart, loyal, resilient and just real. She doesn’t shy away from pain and trauma, she isn’t afraid to make hard decisions, and she cares deeply for those she considers close, but also for people in general. And she will sacrifice her own comfort to see those she loves happy and safe.
And I’m obsessed with her relationship with Fetch, but we aren’t gonna talk about that much or I’ll get emotional. Same with Molly. Molly is her ride or die bestie who has never shied away from danger when it comes to helping Harm. She’s that bestie every girl dreams of having who will build you up and fight by your side no matter the battle and never bat an eye. But that big heart of hers may cost a lot…
Can we also talk about my unhealthy obsession with pirates? Like why are they some of my favorite characters in any series? That’s one reason this book is even better than book one to me, which is saying a lot. It’s got wit and banter, but with PIRATES!
Including our own Captain Hook…and he’s far from the typical Disney character with the goofy mustache and oversized eyes and weirdly-shaped hair….more like a fit, headstrong, intelligent, handsome, dark and broody male that has secrets we all want to know and powers we’d only dream of.
Add in the crazy dreams Harmony has had for years, the fairy who isn’t a fairy, the man-child playing the hero, and the lost kids, and you’ve got yourself a story. Oh, and don’t forget the crazy witch who keeps popping up trying to kill Harmony and crew!
One fairytale down…one pirate-infested nightmare to go. Who will save the day, and who will walk the plank?
June 12, 2025
fabulous storytelling, amazing characters
Rating: 5⭐️
And with a literal turn of the page, Mae has landed us in the fairy tale world of Peter Pan, Tinkerbelle, and Captain Hook with this second book as Harmony Fallowell, best friend Molly, and falcon Fetch leaping out over the edge of the page of the Kingdom of Alabaster just as the darkness was closing in.
It’s a splashdown into some familiar territory with wonderful creatures and fantastic twists!
Mae keeps moving the overall theme of getting Harmony back to her original kingdom in time to save it from the evil sorceress, letting her required knowledge and skills return as this journey continues. She is getting magically more powerful as she gathers the necessary items to complete her quest. ,As is Molly who’s undergone devastating events and is emerging from them a different, stronger woman, shifting into her own style and strengths. And there’s Fetch,Harmony’s feathered companion to add excitement to each adventure and adversarial moments.
It’s hard to say anything more about the characters due to their unique roles in this book. And the many twists in this storyline.
Onyx: A Twisted Fairy Tale (Inkbound Book 2) by Shannon Mae is the middle book in this trilogy so the author starts tying up a few of the characters stories. This aspect of Onyx makes for a really satisfying read and leaves one feeling great for several reasons, while still leaving the reader with the impression of suspense and excitement as Harmony is left with a companion tumbling off another page into the next kingdom and trilogy finale.
If you are a fan of these amazing covers like I am, you will have peaked at the last one, Inked in Emerald, and know exactly where she’s landed! Absolutely perfect.
I can hardly wait for this one to be released!
See you there. Clicking my heels.
Highly recommended. But they must be read in the order they are written.
Cover by HiJinks Ink Publishing
Inkbound trilogy series:
Inked in Ashes #1
Inked in Onyx #2
Inked in Emerald #3 - Sept 23,2025
Rating: 5⭐️
And with a literal turn of the page, Mae has landed us in the fairy tale world of Peter Pan, Tinkerbelle, and Captain Hook with this second book as Harmony Fallowell, best friend Molly, and falcon Fetch leaping out over the edge of the page of the Kingdom of Alabaster just as the darkness was closing in.
It’s a splashdown into some familiar territory with wonderful creatures and fantastic twists!
Mae keeps moving the overall theme of getting Harmony back to her original kingdom in time to save it from the evil sorceress, letting her required knowledge and skills return as this journey continues. She is getting magically more powerful as she gathers the necessary items to complete her quest. ,As is Molly who’s undergone devastating events and is emerging from them a different, stronger woman, shifting into her own style and strengths. And there’s Fetch,Harmony’s feathered companion to add excitement to each adventure and adversarial moments.
It’s hard to say anything more about the characters due to their unique roles in this book. And the many twists in this storyline.
Onyx: A Twisted Fairy Tale (Inkbound Book 2) by Shannon Mae is the middle book in this trilogy so the author starts tying up a few of the characters stories. This aspect of Onyx makes for a really satisfying read and leaves one feeling great for several reasons, while still leaving the reader with the impression of suspense and excitement as Harmony is left with a companion tumbling off another page into the next kingdom and trilogy finale.
If you are a fan of these amazing covers like I am, you will have peaked at the last one, Inked in Emerald, and know exactly where she’s landed! Absolutely perfect.
I can hardly wait for this one to be released!
See you there. Clicking my heels.
Highly recommended. But they must be read in the order they are written.
Cover by HiJinks Ink Publishing
Inkbound trilogy series:
Inked in Ashes #1
Inked in Onyx #2
Inked in Emerald #3 - Sept 23,2025
June 14, 2025
“One fairytale down, one pirate-infested nightmare to go…”
It’s official: I’m OBSESSED. I knew it would be hard to top Inked in Ashes—especially because Peter Pan is my all-time favorite fairytale—but Inked in Onyx somehow managed to steal my heart (and break it a little too 😭).
Harmony is everything. Fierce. Loyal. Sarcastic. Selfless. Her journey picks up right where book one ended—barely surviving Relyk and Alabaster—only to be blasted straight into her next fairytale: Neverland. At first, it’s glittery skies and carefree island vibes… until the truth sinks in. A magical clock is the key to her destiny. A clock Peter Pan and Tinkerbell have been hunting for years.
So what do Harmony and her bestie Molly do? They steal Pan’s ship and sail off in search of it. Only to crash—literally—into the hands of the most dreaded pirate of all time: Captain Hook.
And this isn’t the charming, misunderstood Hook we’ve seen in some retellings.
This one? Is feral. Cold. A little unhinged. Totally untrusting. And maddeningly magnetic. 😩
Oh, and he thinks Harmony’s a boy. 😂
Let the chaos begin.
I loved every single second of this. The banter. The found family. The secrets and lies and that ever-present sense of danger. You truly don’t know who to trust in this world. The plot was twisty and unpredictable in the best way. And the moments between Harmony and Hook?? Delicious slow-burn tension. 🔥
Also, shoutout to Molly and Fetch. The girl + falcon + fable dynamic is such a win. 💖🪶
Just when I thought I had the ending figured out… Shannon Mayer hit me with another twist that had me laughing and swearing and then SCREAMING. BECAUSE HOW DARE YOU LEAVE ME LIKE THAT. 😭😭😭
This series is such a clever, emotional, action-packed twist on classic fairytales. It’s not just a retelling—it’s something completely fresh, dark, and full of heart. And I can’t even explain how much I adore the way Mayer reimagines these childhood stories while still keeping their magic intact.
If you love:
🏴☠️ Peter Pan Retellings
🧚♀️ Twisted Fairytales
👑 Lost Heir vibes
🗡️ Enemies to Reluctant Allies
🌊 Trapped in a Fable
💥 Pirate Drama
💘 Morally Grey Love Interests
👯♀️ Loyal Best Friend Duos
🐦 Animal Companions
🔥 Slow Burn Romantasy
✨ Fairytale Mashups
Then please pick this up. But read Inked in Ashes first or you’ll miss out on so much magic. 💫
Also, someone hold me until September. That cliffhanger??? I’m still recovering.
Thank you to Shannon Mayer for the ARC—my heart is full (and also in pieces). ❤️🔥
It’s official: I’m OBSESSED. I knew it would be hard to top Inked in Ashes—especially because Peter Pan is my all-time favorite fairytale—but Inked in Onyx somehow managed to steal my heart (and break it a little too 😭).
Harmony is everything. Fierce. Loyal. Sarcastic. Selfless. Her journey picks up right where book one ended—barely surviving Relyk and Alabaster—only to be blasted straight into her next fairytale: Neverland. At first, it’s glittery skies and carefree island vibes… until the truth sinks in. A magical clock is the key to her destiny. A clock Peter Pan and Tinkerbell have been hunting for years.
So what do Harmony and her bestie Molly do? They steal Pan’s ship and sail off in search of it. Only to crash—literally—into the hands of the most dreaded pirate of all time: Captain Hook.
And this isn’t the charming, misunderstood Hook we’ve seen in some retellings.
This one? Is feral. Cold. A little unhinged. Totally untrusting. And maddeningly magnetic. 😩
Oh, and he thinks Harmony’s a boy. 😂
Let the chaos begin.
I loved every single second of this. The banter. The found family. The secrets and lies and that ever-present sense of danger. You truly don’t know who to trust in this world. The plot was twisty and unpredictable in the best way. And the moments between Harmony and Hook?? Delicious slow-burn tension. 🔥
Also, shoutout to Molly and Fetch. The girl + falcon + fable dynamic is such a win. 💖🪶
Just when I thought I had the ending figured out… Shannon Mayer hit me with another twist that had me laughing and swearing and then SCREAMING. BECAUSE HOW DARE YOU LEAVE ME LIKE THAT. 😭😭😭
This series is such a clever, emotional, action-packed twist on classic fairytales. It’s not just a retelling—it’s something completely fresh, dark, and full of heart. And I can’t even explain how much I adore the way Mayer reimagines these childhood stories while still keeping their magic intact.
If you love:
🏴☠️ Peter Pan Retellings
🧚♀️ Twisted Fairytales
👑 Lost Heir vibes
🗡️ Enemies to Reluctant Allies
🌊 Trapped in a Fable
💥 Pirate Drama
💘 Morally Grey Love Interests
👯♀️ Loyal Best Friend Duos
🐦 Animal Companions
🔥 Slow Burn Romantasy
✨ Fairytale Mashups
Then please pick this up. But read Inked in Ashes first or you’ll miss out on so much magic. 💫
Also, someone hold me until September. That cliffhanger??? I’m still recovering.
Thank you to Shannon Mayer for the ARC—my heart is full (and also in pieces). ❤️🔥
June 13, 2025
Inked in Onyx was such an incredible second installment to the Inkbound series! I know I said this in my Inked in Ashes review but it bears repeating again, this is the most unique fairytale retelling I’ve ever read and each book delivers on a different one!
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 0.5 🌶️
Quality of spice: 🌶️
*There are two(ish) spicy scenes in Inked in Onyx. I’ve included the pages/percentages at the bottom of this review.*
Inked in Onyx picks up immediately where Inked in Ashes left off and Harmony has turned the page with Molly to end up in Neverland. Based on the information The Speaker gave them, she knows they’re in a race to retrieve a clock. After being plunked into the ocean and shot at by cannonballs, they are rescued by Peter Pan and Tink and brought back to Neverland. Here they meet the Lost Boys (and girl) and realize some of the people in this story are the same as the ones in Alabaster.. but different.
Once Harmony learns of Noru, the 80 foot crocodile, and his involvement with the clock, she knows they need to leave Neverland and find someone to take them to The Fen. Only problem? She’s now realized that Captain Hook is the man she’s been dreaming about for as long as she can remember.. and he’s a murdering pirate.
However.. Peter Pan, Tink, and Hook are not exactly as they seem. I just love when a retelling has a twist on the classic fairytale and Shannon truly delivered on that!
Learning about the different Tideblessings/Whispers was so cool and I just loved getting to see Harmony strengthen her powers as the story was told. The ending had me sobbing and sitting on the edge of my seat! This series has had its hooks (pun intended) in me from the get go and I cannot wait to see how it progresses in Oz!
🌶️ Spicy Scenes 🌶️
1. Ch 6 18%
2. Ch 34 88%
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 0.5 🌶️
Quality of spice: 🌶️
*There are two(ish) spicy scenes in Inked in Onyx. I’ve included the pages/percentages at the bottom of this review.*
Inked in Onyx picks up immediately where Inked in Ashes left off and Harmony has turned the page with Molly to end up in Neverland. Based on the information The Speaker gave them, she knows they’re in a race to retrieve a clock. After being plunked into the ocean and shot at by cannonballs, they are rescued by Peter Pan and Tink and brought back to Neverland. Here they meet the Lost Boys (and girl) and realize some of the people in this story are the same as the ones in Alabaster.. but different.
Once Harmony learns of Noru, the 80 foot crocodile, and his involvement with the clock, she knows they need to leave Neverland and find someone to take them to The Fen. Only problem? She’s now realized that Captain Hook is the man she’s been dreaming about for as long as she can remember.. and he’s a murdering pirate.
However.. Peter Pan, Tink, and Hook are not exactly as they seem. I just love when a retelling has a twist on the classic fairytale and Shannon truly delivered on that!
Learning about the different Tideblessings/Whispers was so cool and I just loved getting to see Harmony strengthen her powers as the story was told. The ending had me sobbing and sitting on the edge of my seat! This series has had its hooks (pun intended) in me from the get go and I cannot wait to see how it progresses in Oz!
🌶️ Spicy Scenes 🌶️
1. Ch 6 18%
2. Ch 34 88%
September 9, 2025
⚓✨ Inked in Onyx (Inkbound #2) by Shannon Mayer ✨⚓
One fairytale down, one pirate-infested nightmare to go… and WOW, Shannon Mayer did it again!
After barely escaping Alabaster, Harmony, Molly, and our fave falcon Fetch get yeeted straight into Neverland but forget bedtime stories, this version is dark, dangerous, and full of secrets. Peter Pan and Tink are hiding more than they’re telling, everyone’s hunting for a magical clock, and who ends up with it? Yep… the one pirate you really don’t want to meet.
⚠️ Enter Captain Hook.
He’s unhinged. He’s dangerous. He’s everything Harmony’s been dreaming of (literally). And he thinks she’s a boy 👀. Cue chaos, reluctant alliances, monster fights, and a slow-burn romance that will absolutely make your stomach flip.
This book gave me:
✨ Found family feels (Harmony + Molly are still iconic)
✨ Dark, twisted fairytale magic
✨ Pirates, sea monsters, and plenty of action
✨ Banter + tension so sharp it hurt
✨ A romance that creeps up on you and then refuses to let go
Shannon’s worldbuilding is SO vivid that I swear I could hear the waves and feel the salt spray while reading. The monsters? Terrifying. The stakes? Even higher than book one. And don’t even get me started on the emotional gut punches 😭.
If Inked in Ashes hooked me, then Inked in Onyx dragged me aboard, tied me to the mast, and refused to let me go. This series is shaping up to be one of my FAVORITE romantasy retellings ever.
Now the real torture? Waiting for book three 😩.
#InkedInOnyx #InkboundSeries #ShannonMayer #RomantasyBooks #FantasyRomance #FairyTaleRetelling #DarkFantasyBooks #SlowBurnRomance #CaptainHookVibes #NeverlandRetelling #FoundFamilyFantasy #BookstagramFantasy #DarkRomantasy #FantasyAddict #EpicFantasyReads
One fairytale down, one pirate-infested nightmare to go… and WOW, Shannon Mayer did it again!
After barely escaping Alabaster, Harmony, Molly, and our fave falcon Fetch get yeeted straight into Neverland but forget bedtime stories, this version is dark, dangerous, and full of secrets. Peter Pan and Tink are hiding more than they’re telling, everyone’s hunting for a magical clock, and who ends up with it? Yep… the one pirate you really don’t want to meet.
⚠️ Enter Captain Hook.
He’s unhinged. He’s dangerous. He’s everything Harmony’s been dreaming of (literally). And he thinks she’s a boy 👀. Cue chaos, reluctant alliances, monster fights, and a slow-burn romance that will absolutely make your stomach flip.
This book gave me:
✨ Found family feels (Harmony + Molly are still iconic)
✨ Dark, twisted fairytale magic
✨ Pirates, sea monsters, and plenty of action
✨ Banter + tension so sharp it hurt
✨ A romance that creeps up on you and then refuses to let go
Shannon’s worldbuilding is SO vivid that I swear I could hear the waves and feel the salt spray while reading. The monsters? Terrifying. The stakes? Even higher than book one. And don’t even get me started on the emotional gut punches 😭.
If Inked in Ashes hooked me, then Inked in Onyx dragged me aboard, tied me to the mast, and refused to let me go. This series is shaping up to be one of my FAVORITE romantasy retellings ever.
Now the real torture? Waiting for book three 😩.
#InkedInOnyx #InkboundSeries #ShannonMayer #RomantasyBooks #FantasyRomance #FairyTaleRetelling #DarkFantasyBooks #SlowBurnRomance #CaptainHookVibes #NeverlandRetelling #FoundFamilyFantasy #BookstagramFantasy #DarkRomantasy #FantasyAddict #EpicFantasyReads
June 21, 2025
Inked in Onyx picks up right where Inked in Ashes left off, and don’t worry—there’s a handy recap at the start if you need a little memory jog (which I totally appreciated).
While the first book gave us a Cinderella retelling, this one dives headfirst into a darker, twisted version of Neverland.
I really enjoyed exploring this version of Peter Pan’s world as Harmony sets off in search of the second magical item to help her find her way back home. The monster battles were intense and super fun to read—packed with action and magic.
The found family vibes ? So strong.
I loved watching Harmony’s bond with Molly grow, and seeing her connect with Captain Cook’s crew and the Lost Boys made the eventual goodbye scene hit that much harder. Definitely got me in the feels!
That said, the romance had me scratching my head a bit.
I was intrigued by the dreamy, mysterious guy Harmony kept seeing, but when they finally met in person… the chemistry just wasn’t there for me.
They mostly seemed to dislike each other, and I wish we got more than just that tension—like, why are they even dreaming about each other in the first place ?
The ending broke my heart just a little, and it definitely left me with questions—but now I’m really looking forward to the next stop: the Wizard of Oz world. Next stop: the Wizard of Oz—one last wild ride before Harmony’s story comes full circle.
I received a review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: child abuse, child death, sexual content
While the first book gave us a Cinderella retelling, this one dives headfirst into a darker, twisted version of Neverland.
I really enjoyed exploring this version of Peter Pan’s world as Harmony sets off in search of the second magical item to help her find her way back home. The monster battles were intense and super fun to read—packed with action and magic.
The found family vibes ? So strong.
I loved watching Harmony’s bond with Molly grow, and seeing her connect with Captain Cook’s crew and the Lost Boys made the eventual goodbye scene hit that much harder. Definitely got me in the feels!
That said, the romance had me scratching my head a bit.
I was intrigued by the dreamy, mysterious guy Harmony kept seeing, but when they finally met in person… the chemistry just wasn’t there for me.
They mostly seemed to dislike each other, and I wish we got more than just that tension—like, why are they even dreaming about each other in the first place ?
The ending broke my heart just a little, and it definitely left me with questions—but now I’m really looking forward to the next stop: the Wizard of Oz world. Next stop: the Wizard of Oz—one last wild ride before Harmony’s story comes full circle.
I received a review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: child abuse, child death, sexual content
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