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Lost Boys #2
Lost in Darkness
THEY CALL ME HOOK.
I am what my past made me.
A villain.
But that doesn't mean I'm going to let the monster who ruined me destroy my brother. I'll do whatever it takes to bring that bastard down for good.
Even work with Officer John Darling.
He's too young, too good, too... everything for me. He should stay away.
Too bad he's no better at doing what he should than I am.
He thinks he can save me. But I've been lost in the darkness so long, no light can reach me now.
Not even one that burns as bright as Johnathan Darling.
HE CALLS ME DARLING.
I was a kid when I met Hook. I crushed hard on the broody teen—following him around, hoping he'd pay attention to me.
He didn't, though. Not until I became his only option for saving his brother. Now, he can't hide from me.
Just like he can't hide the desire in his eyes whenever I'm on my knees for him.
But Hook has secrets. Dark ones. And now this undercover operation isn't my only mission. I'll risk everything to break down his walls and make him see himself as I do.
Because Captain James Hook is not the villain of this story...he's the hero.
And he's mine.
I am what my past made me.
A villain.
But that doesn't mean I'm going to let the monster who ruined me destroy my brother. I'll do whatever it takes to bring that bastard down for good.
Even work with Officer John Darling.
He's too young, too good, too... everything for me. He should stay away.
Too bad he's no better at doing what he should than I am.
He thinks he can save me. But I've been lost in the darkness so long, no light can reach me now.
Not even one that burns as bright as Johnathan Darling.
HE CALLS ME DARLING.
I was a kid when I met Hook. I crushed hard on the broody teen—following him around, hoping he'd pay attention to me.
He didn't, though. Not until I became his only option for saving his brother. Now, he can't hide from me.
Just like he can't hide the desire in his eyes whenever I'm on my knees for him.
But Hook has secrets. Dark ones. And now this undercover operation isn't my only mission. I'll risk everything to break down his walls and make him see himself as I do.
Because Captain James Hook is not the villain of this story...he's the hero.
And he's mine.
Audible Audio
First published October 29, 2019
70 people are currently reading
1383 people want to read
About the author
Gina L. Maxwell
37 books4,153 followersGina L. Maxwell is a New York Times, USA Today, and #1 International bestselling author living in the upper Midwest, despite her scathing hatred of snow and cold weather. As a lifelong romance novel addict, she began writing as another way of enjoying her love of Happily Ever Afters.
Her debut novel in 2012, Seducing Cinderella, hit the bestseller lists within a month of its release and continues to be a fan favorite a full decade later.
When she’s not reading, writing, or spending way too much on planners and office supplies, Gina enjoys hanging out with her grown children, experiencing everything life has to offer, and dreaming of her someday-move to someplace tropical.
Her debut novel in 2012, Seducing Cinderella, hit the bestseller lists within a month of its release and continues to be a fan favorite a full decade later.
When she’s not reading, writing, or spending way too much on planners and office supplies, Gina enjoys hanging out with her grown children, experiencing everything life has to offer, and dreaming of her someday-move to someplace tropical.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
December 2, 2019
4 STARS
If you know me or follow my reviews, than you already know just how much I love a good tortured hero. And let me tell you, it doesn't get more tortured than James Hook. The man is tortured personified. He's utterly broken in the most captivating way. The second he appeared on the pages of Pan, he stole the show, and I was counting down the days until I could get my hands on his story. I've read a few modern fairytale retellings, and I'll say that this one stays pretty darn close to the details. I especially love the way that Gina incorporates little pieces of Peter Pan into this book. From the evil crime boss, Fred Croc, to his loudly ticking pocket watch, everything came together flawlessly.
Hook is the Captain, or essentially the boss of his merry band of bandits or pirates as he calls them. In order to save his little brother from the evil clutches of Croc, he made a deal with the devil, at the expense of his soul. From the very first, you know there's something darker to Hook's history, and while the author alludes to it in the first book, she throws you into the deep end of his painful past in this one. Hook is a man that you can't help but love. You know that his callousness and hard exterior hides the soft heart of a wounded man that's never known affection. Hook has known nothing but suffering, but he'll take it ten times over in order to spare the others and his brother especially.
John Darling is a cop that has been crushing on Hook ever since they were boys and he followed his sister sneaking to the School of Lost Boys to see Pan. Now he's a grown man and understands that the child's crush he had runs much deeper. John is determined to bring Croc's operation down, and he's not above maneuvering Hook in order to set up his cover as his new pirate.
Now full disclosure, Gina does make a foreword letting the reader know to suspend your disbelief when it comes to procedural details of this book. I didn't have any problems with that. But I did have one asshole reader moment over a detail that plagued me for the entire book. You have a cop working with the FBI that goes undercover to catch a ruthless crime boss, and he uses fake tattoos. Like the stuff that can flake off when he gets into a fight or sweats or showers. And try as I might, I just couldn't get past it. I'm sorry, okay?! I love Gina's words, but the struggle was real here. I was on the struggle bus for the entire undercover gig. I just couldn't with this detail. I'm an asshole when it comes to certain details, and this just ate at me. Le sigh.
Having said that, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book. The story that we get here is a beautifully and gripping, emotional and oh so steamy. Darling and Hook set the pages on fire with their chemistry. I absolutely loved them together. Gina treads the line of darkness by giving the reader just enough details of Hook's past to build a devastating feel for why he is the way he is, without getting into the super gory details. She doesn't spare your heart strings, though, and plays those like a violin. My whole heart!!!
I fell so hard for John and Hook's story and romance and couldn't get enough of them. I absolutely adored their road to a HEA and couldn't have dreamed a better ending and epilogue. I'm so hooked on this series (see what I did there? *snorts*) and can't wait for more!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
He is my Captain. And for as long as he’ll have me, I am his.
If you know me or follow my reviews, than you already know just how much I love a good tortured hero. And let me tell you, it doesn't get more tortured than James Hook. The man is tortured personified. He's utterly broken in the most captivating way. The second he appeared on the pages of Pan, he stole the show, and I was counting down the days until I could get my hands on his story. I've read a few modern fairytale retellings, and I'll say that this one stays pretty darn close to the details. I especially love the way that Gina incorporates little pieces of Peter Pan into this book. From the evil crime boss, Fred Croc, to his loudly ticking pocket watch, everything came together flawlessly.
Hook is the Captain, or essentially the boss of his merry band of bandits or pirates as he calls them. In order to save his little brother from the evil clutches of Croc, he made a deal with the devil, at the expense of his soul. From the very first, you know there's something darker to Hook's history, and while the author alludes to it in the first book, she throws you into the deep end of his painful past in this one. Hook is a man that you can't help but love. You know that his callousness and hard exterior hides the soft heart of a wounded man that's never known affection. Hook has known nothing but suffering, but he'll take it ten times over in order to spare the others and his brother especially.
John Darling is a cop that has been crushing on Hook ever since they were boys and he followed his sister sneaking to the School of Lost Boys to see Pan. Now he's a grown man and understands that the child's crush he had runs much deeper. John is determined to bring Croc's operation down, and he's not above maneuvering Hook in order to set up his cover as his new pirate.
Now full disclosure, Gina does make a foreword letting the reader know to suspend your disbelief when it comes to procedural details of this book. I didn't have any problems with that. But I did have one asshole reader moment over a detail that plagued me for the entire book. You have a cop working with the FBI that goes undercover to catch a ruthless crime boss, and he uses fake tattoos. Like the stuff that can flake off when he gets into a fight or sweats or showers. And try as I might, I just couldn't get past it. I'm sorry, okay?! I love Gina's words, but the struggle was real here. I was on the struggle bus for the entire undercover gig. I just couldn't with this detail. I'm an asshole when it comes to certain details, and this just ate at me. Le sigh.
Having said that, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book. The story that we get here is a beautifully and gripping, emotional and oh so steamy. Darling and Hook set the pages on fire with their chemistry. I absolutely loved them together. Gina treads the line of darkness by giving the reader just enough details of Hook's past to build a devastating feel for why he is the way he is, without getting into the super gory details. She doesn't spare your heart strings, though, and plays those like a violin. My whole heart!!!
I fell so hard for John and Hook's story and romance and couldn't get enough of them. I absolutely adored their road to a HEA and couldn't have dreamed a better ending and epilogue. I'm so hooked on this series (see what I did there? *snorts*) and can't wait for more!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
December 11, 2019
4+ "Live in the light." Stars!
Goodness. What can I say? This book hurt my heart. James Hook had to endure the unimaginable way too often in his life. My heart just bleeds for him. The hope that he was going to find some peace and light drove me on throughout this book.
John... thank goodness he was a stubborn, determined and insightful man. I loved both James and John.
I guess you can tell my description of Hook, this book has some dark elements that may be triggers for some. - I do not like to read this type of story. But once in a while, I do venture into the dark. Usually by accident just like this time was, but I don't regret it. I loved Hook from book 1, PAN and I had great hope he would find his light.
Honestly, I'm a little afraid of what may be coming in this series, so as much as I love Gina L. Maxwell's writing and the way she builds her stories, she has scared me. I'm afraid the books will continue in this darkness. We shall see... never know about me.
Happy reading. 🥴
Goodness. What can I say? This book hurt my heart. James Hook had to endure the unimaginable way too often in his life. My heart just bleeds for him. The hope that he was going to find some peace and light drove me on throughout this book.
John... thank goodness he was a stubborn, determined and insightful man. I loved both James and John.
I guess you can tell my description of Hook, this book has some dark elements that may be triggers for some. - I do not like to read this type of story. But once in a while, I do venture into the dark. Usually by accident just like this time was, but I don't regret it. I loved Hook from book 1, PAN and I had great hope he would find his light.
Honestly, I'm a little afraid of what may be coming in this series, so as much as I love Gina L. Maxwell's writing and the way she builds her stories, she has scared me. I'm afraid the books will continue in this darkness. We shall see... never know about me.
Happy reading. 🥴
December 16, 2019
Hook was an emotional book that was filled with hope, healing and redemption. But pain also filled the pages and it was etched so deep that my heart hurt reading this story. Right from the prologue we were brought into Hook's world and we got to see how dark and desolate it was. Life could be so harsh and brutal. But with John Darling in the picture, love and peace of mind tried their hardest to continually add light to Hook's life. So if you love opposites attracts and stories that will pull at your heart, then definitely add this one to your tbr.
We met Hook in Pan, and I just knew his story would slay my heart open. You definitely don't have to read the previous book to follow along with this one, but you'll connect and understand the characters on a much deeper level if you do. So Hook and his crew of pirates dealt drugs for Croc. Hook was dealt a shit hand and was trying his best to help others, even though it dragged him into doing illegal activities. And then there was John Darling, Wendy's brother. He was a cop and the complete opposite of Hook. Since they were kids, there was always something between them. And now that they were older, it turned into something that was scorching hot.
John Darling was such a smart, caring, gentle hearted man. He was so honest and the reasons why he became a cop blew my mind. John was all heart and patience and I loved that no matter how high Hook's walls were, he kept trying. He saw the good in Hook and John slowly gave him pieces of his own heart. John cared so deeply for him that it made my heart soar. We alternated between John and Hook and I loved that we got to see what each of them thought about the other. It added so much depth and understanding to their story.
The tension between John and Hook had me begging for them to be together. And when they did *fans face*, it was extremely hot and addictive. Moments between them were sensual, but there was also heart in it all. So I kept hoping that each time they touched, that it helped knock down Hook's walls. Because emotionally, John was there for Hook. And we also got to see how physically he did everything he could to make his Captain happy. They had such a beautiful, slow burn relationship.
Just like John, I loved Hook. He had already captured and broken my heart in Pan. In his story, those broken pieces got shattered even further and scattered all over the floor. Don't worry, they got pieced back together in the most beautiful of ways. But still, I had a very hard time with Hook's story. His past was too much for me to handle. I struggle with rape, especially when it comes to kids. I knew about his past, because of what we saw in Pan, so I thought I could handle it. I was wrong. I sobbed for Hook. Even if it didn't go into details, you still understood exactly what happened and the darkness was too much for me. Thankfully one of the chapters had an alternative way to read it, on her website, and I did that. But still, this story was too hard for my heart.
So if you aren't triggered like me, definitely pick this one up. Yes you're going to have to suspend your belief from time to time, just like in Pan. But Hook was such a beautiful story about hope, love and persevering. I was rooting for Hook and John from the very beginning. Not only for them to be together, but their individual journeys too. There was also all of the side characters we got to love and hate. And then this book ended with an epilogue that dreams are made of. So if you pick this one up, I hope you love it way more than me, this book deserves all the love!
For more of my reviews, please visit:
“Damn your hero complex all to hell,” I mutter to myself on the way back to my room. “The Pirate doesn’t want to be saved, and you don’t belong on the dark side.”
We met Hook in Pan, and I just knew his story would slay my heart open. You definitely don't have to read the previous book to follow along with this one, but you'll connect and understand the characters on a much deeper level if you do. So Hook and his crew of pirates dealt drugs for Croc. Hook was dealt a shit hand and was trying his best to help others, even though it dragged him into doing illegal activities. And then there was John Darling, Wendy's brother. He was a cop and the complete opposite of Hook. Since they were kids, there was always something between them. And now that they were older, it turned into something that was scorching hot.
He is my Captain. And for as long as he’ll have me, I am his.
John Darling was such a smart, caring, gentle hearted man. He was so honest and the reasons why he became a cop blew my mind. John was all heart and patience and I loved that no matter how high Hook's walls were, he kept trying. He saw the good in Hook and John slowly gave him pieces of his own heart. John cared so deeply for him that it made my heart soar. We alternated between John and Hook and I loved that we got to see what each of them thought about the other. It added so much depth and understanding to their story.
Finally, he reaches me. As he stands between my spread legs, I focus on keeping my breaths even, determined not to show him how much his nearness affects me. I am a rock. An island. I don’t need him. I don’t need anyone. - Hook
The tension between John and Hook had me begging for them to be together. And when they did *fans face*, it was extremely hot and addictive. Moments between them were sensual, but there was also heart in it all. So I kept hoping that each time they touched, that it helped knock down Hook's walls. Because emotionally, John was there for Hook. And we also got to see how physically he did everything he could to make his Captain happy. They had such a beautiful, slow burn relationship.
Hatred— for Croc, for myself, for a system that failed us as kids and set all this in motion— rips through me from the bottom of my black soul until I let out a deafening roar and tear the visitor’s phone off the partition wall to whip it across the room.
Just like John, I loved Hook. He had already captured and broken my heart in Pan. In his story, those broken pieces got shattered even further and scattered all over the floor. Don't worry, they got pieced back together in the most beautiful of ways. But still, I had a very hard time with Hook's story. His past was too much for me to handle. I struggle with rape, especially when it comes to kids. I knew about his past, because of what we saw in Pan, so I thought I could handle it. I was wrong. I sobbed for Hook. Even if it didn't go into details, you still understood exactly what happened and the darkness was too much for me. Thankfully one of the chapters had an alternative way to read it, on her website, and I did that. But still, this story was too hard for my heart.
All I see is him in front of me, all I hear are his steady breaths, all I feel is his strong yet gentle touch. It’s both the most calming and unnerving thing I’ve ever experienced.
It’s where I belong.
I’ve never wanted and dreaded something so much in all my life. - Hook
So if you aren't triggered like me, definitely pick this one up. Yes you're going to have to suspend your belief from time to time, just like in Pan. But Hook was such a beautiful story about hope, love and persevering. I was rooting for Hook and John from the very beginning. Not only for them to be together, but their individual journeys too. There was also all of the side characters we got to love and hate. And then this book ended with an epilogue that dreams are made of. So if you pick this one up, I hope you love it way more than me, this book deserves all the love!
For more of my reviews, please visit:
November 1, 2019
Heartbreaking and uplifting all at once. As always, Gina's writing is immaculate and these characters' journeys will grip you all the way to their hard-won HEA. Loved every minute!
February 13, 2020
REVIEW: 4 STARS
"For such a hard-bodied guy, you're awfully soft on the inside."
I *finally* sat down to devour Hook and I am so glad I took the time on this one. I was anxiously anticipating this one, but I was almost scared to start it because of all the hopes I had for it. Crazy, I know. THIS LONG awaited followup to Pan was a great book. It’s not your run-of-the-mill "cop falls for the bad guy" kind of story. Yes, it followed the narrative of "I'm not good enough for you/you're too good compared to my bad" kind of story, but there was so much more to it. It’s so much more in-depth when it comes to the storyline because of, believe it or not, the backstory that goes with it. Now, to be fair, going into this story after finishing Pan, I knew there was something going on with Hook that I absolutely knew was going to be painful to witness. I wanted this one to be written .... heavier. I wanted Maxwell to give me the pain, the anger, the sorrow and the shame that I knew came with this type of storyline, to be more of a heavy read for me to embrace the background that I knew was coming. She definitely gave me that. I felt all of it, and I knew Hook was internally battling some wounds that only the right love would be able to help him, but the right man.
First and foremost: HOT. These two were HOT. The truths that came from the pain that is leveled in this story are soul-deep. Certainly ones to be read with emotion and intention, and not with a light thought - and I'm glad I had the buildup from Pan to work with. I knew this was a heavier read and I wanted to appreciate the gravity of the situation this book presented, but I also knew their white-hot chemistry was something to watch mature through the pages, and that part I really enjoyed - as well as their humor.
"If I'm not meant to be happy and John's destined to be my downfall, then I'm going to enjoy every sweet minute of my descent."
I just loved the dynamic between John and Hook. There’s so much desire and lust in between the two - palpable even - but it’s not anything that they can actually act upon, which makes it even more daring because it’s a hard line to cross. I love when something uncontrollable is stepping in the way, whether it be moral, emotional, physical, or mental. I appreciated that Maxwell gave me a little bit of each with this storyline. Having said that, here was a softer tone to the voice of Hook than I originally anticipated there would be. It’s not bad, it just made me see him in a whole new light. There was a lot more to discover about him; definitely not a surface scratching character. Even though I was hoping for more grrrr and less purr, their story really worked for me.
If I loved it so much, why is it a four star? There were some forced parts that were bothering me. I only say forced as in some things felt pushed-upon, instead of happening organically. It wasn't bad and it wasn't all forced, but some parts felt out of place. I found that they worked after the fact - so that was a little bit of a different approach for me, but since Maxwell is still a very new author to me, I'm still learning her voice and her storytelling style.
In the beginning, the hardest part for me was that I didn’t feel their connection immediately, but I certainly read it but I wanted to feel it!! They burned hot for each other and there was no denying that. I just wish I ‘felt’ it earlier on. It grew over the course of the book, and it most definitely manifested itself well by the end of the book, I just had to catch up with her thought process while reading it.
The writing was smooth, but overtly wordy at times. I know, I know. That sounds funny when it's obviously a book I'm reading! I just think her words gave enough oomph to not really need the ‘extra’, but sometimes it was overly descriptive where there wasn't really a reason for it. Maxwell sold the scenes wonderfully. She gave me the excitement of a secret, the anticipation of a kiss....but what she gave me most was a love worth following. I knew that Hook hid his emotions, but I also felt that he couldn’t hide from Darling. His pain was spelled out fairly clearly - and that opened the flood gates for a better understanding of Hook. I volleyed between John and Hook being too soft and "this is so perfect!!" I loved their dynamic. I loved their relationship. It was the perfect delivery of give and take. John and Hook had my heart by the end of this story. The calm John gave Hook was refreshing. I felt the release of tension every time Jonathan was there to hold James’s hand...or heart. It really was a test of patience, of will, and of love.
"As much as I wanted to let him run the show, my control is slipping."
While I've enjoyed her stories so far, her voice does lend a very feminine-esque emotion/voice to these very alpha males. Not nitpicking, but a rough and tumble guy doesn’t usually say “the water sluices over me” so it just came out as a very thesaurus-using description, even for a well read man. Yes, he’s smart and he reads - but this isn’t everyday language. So the words and descriptions had me shaking my head a few times, but not enough to take away from my overall enjoyment of the book. I do like that Maxwell can give me a story that I can get lost in and her story can transport me to another world, but I war with the the difference in the tones that her voice lends versus the story that I’m actually reading. Definitely not bad, because as women we are emotional beings, but I hear her voice and not necessarily John’s or James’. Again, not bad because I’m being handed the emotions on a platter, but I wanted to feel it from their POV with their grittiness, not necessarily her emotions.
Something crazy to think about, but this was the kind of book I could put down, think about, come back to, put down to do something else, only to come back again and continue reading as if there weren't any breaks. This book was like an old friend; I could step away and come back like nothing changed in time. They’re comfy reads for me. I really enjoy them. All in all, seriously, a great storyteller. I enjoy these books and am looking forward to more.
Confession : I think I went in with a predetermined perfection in my head based on what others were saying, and I usually don’t do that because I like to form my own opinions. I set it aside and then picked it back up - with renewed eyes and an open mind. Much better. I’ll be honest, I was almost too worried about this read and review. It’s such a great story, but her voice didn't originally project the heaviness the story required - in.my.mind. She’s a solid 4 star writer for me and I most definitely want more. So far, her stories have pulled me in. She’s got great stories to tell and I will continue to follow this entire series. I’m really enjoying the trip down memory lane into Neverland that she’s providing me.
Remember, this is her tentative schedule of books she plans on releasing (in no order) and I will be reading every single one of them.
Thomas
Silas
The Twins + Tiger Lily (MFM)
Nick
Carlos
Chief
Smee + Starkey + female (MMF).
"I know what I like and what I want, and I don't see the point in tap-dancing around that."
~BEE
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"For such a hard-bodied guy, you're awfully soft on the inside."
I *finally* sat down to devour Hook and I am so glad I took the time on this one. I was anxiously anticipating this one, but I was almost scared to start it because of all the hopes I had for it. Crazy, I know. THIS LONG awaited followup to Pan was a great book. It’s not your run-of-the-mill "cop falls for the bad guy" kind of story. Yes, it followed the narrative of "I'm not good enough for you/you're too good compared to my bad" kind of story, but there was so much more to it. It’s so much more in-depth when it comes to the storyline because of, believe it or not, the backstory that goes with it. Now, to be fair, going into this story after finishing Pan, I knew there was something going on with Hook that I absolutely knew was going to be painful to witness. I wanted this one to be written .... heavier. I wanted Maxwell to give me the pain, the anger, the sorrow and the shame that I knew came with this type of storyline, to be more of a heavy read for me to embrace the background that I knew was coming. She definitely gave me that. I felt all of it, and I knew Hook was internally battling some wounds that only the right love would be able to help him, but the right man.
First and foremost: HOT. These two were HOT. The truths that came from the pain that is leveled in this story are soul-deep. Certainly ones to be read with emotion and intention, and not with a light thought - and I'm glad I had the buildup from Pan to work with. I knew this was a heavier read and I wanted to appreciate the gravity of the situation this book presented, but I also knew their white-hot chemistry was something to watch mature through the pages, and that part I really enjoyed - as well as their humor.
"If I'm not meant to be happy and John's destined to be my downfall, then I'm going to enjoy every sweet minute of my descent."
I just loved the dynamic between John and Hook. There’s so much desire and lust in between the two - palpable even - but it’s not anything that they can actually act upon, which makes it even more daring because it’s a hard line to cross. I love when something uncontrollable is stepping in the way, whether it be moral, emotional, physical, or mental. I appreciated that Maxwell gave me a little bit of each with this storyline. Having said that, here was a softer tone to the voice of Hook than I originally anticipated there would be. It’s not bad, it just made me see him in a whole new light. There was a lot more to discover about him; definitely not a surface scratching character. Even though I was hoping for more grrrr and less purr, their story really worked for me.
If I loved it so much, why is it a four star? There were some forced parts that were bothering me. I only say forced as in some things felt pushed-upon, instead of happening organically. It wasn't bad and it wasn't all forced, but some parts felt out of place. I found that they worked after the fact - so that was a little bit of a different approach for me, but since Maxwell is still a very new author to me, I'm still learning her voice and her storytelling style.
In the beginning, the hardest part for me was that I didn’t feel their connection immediately, but I certainly read it but I wanted to feel it!! They burned hot for each other and there was no denying that. I just wish I ‘felt’ it earlier on. It grew over the course of the book, and it most definitely manifested itself well by the end of the book, I just had to catch up with her thought process while reading it.
The writing was smooth, but overtly wordy at times. I know, I know. That sounds funny when it's obviously a book I'm reading! I just think her words gave enough oomph to not really need the ‘extra’, but sometimes it was overly descriptive where there wasn't really a reason for it. Maxwell sold the scenes wonderfully. She gave me the excitement of a secret, the anticipation of a kiss....but what she gave me most was a love worth following. I knew that Hook hid his emotions, but I also felt that he couldn’t hide from Darling. His pain was spelled out fairly clearly - and that opened the flood gates for a better understanding of Hook. I volleyed between John and Hook being too soft and "this is so perfect!!" I loved their dynamic. I loved their relationship. It was the perfect delivery of give and take. John and Hook had my heart by the end of this story. The calm John gave Hook was refreshing. I felt the release of tension every time Jonathan was there to hold James’s hand...or heart. It really was a test of patience, of will, and of love.
"As much as I wanted to let him run the show, my control is slipping."
While I've enjoyed her stories so far, her voice does lend a very feminine-esque emotion/voice to these very alpha males. Not nitpicking, but a rough and tumble guy doesn’t usually say “the water sluices over me” so it just came out as a very thesaurus-using description, even for a well read man. Yes, he’s smart and he reads - but this isn’t everyday language. So the words and descriptions had me shaking my head a few times, but not enough to take away from my overall enjoyment of the book. I do like that Maxwell can give me a story that I can get lost in and her story can transport me to another world, but I war with the the difference in the tones that her voice lends versus the story that I’m actually reading. Definitely not bad, because as women we are emotional beings, but I hear her voice and not necessarily John’s or James’. Again, not bad because I’m being handed the emotions on a platter, but I wanted to feel it from their POV with their grittiness, not necessarily her emotions.
Something crazy to think about, but this was the kind of book I could put down, think about, come back to, put down to do something else, only to come back again and continue reading as if there weren't any breaks. This book was like an old friend; I could step away and come back like nothing changed in time. They’re comfy reads for me. I really enjoy them. All in all, seriously, a great storyteller. I enjoy these books and am looking forward to more.
Confession : I think I went in with a predetermined perfection in my head based on what others were saying, and I usually don’t do that because I like to form my own opinions. I set it aside and then picked it back up - with renewed eyes and an open mind. Much better. I’ll be honest, I was almost too worried about this read and review. It’s such a great story, but her voice didn't originally project the heaviness the story required - in.my.mind. She’s a solid 4 star writer for me and I most definitely want more. So far, her stories have pulled me in. She’s got great stories to tell and I will continue to follow this entire series. I’m really enjoying the trip down memory lane into Neverland that she’s providing me.
Remember, this is her tentative schedule of books she plans on releasing (in no order) and I will be reading every single one of them.
Thomas
Silas
The Twins + Tiger Lily (MFM)
Nick
Carlos
Chief
Smee + Starkey + female (MMF).
"I know what I like and what I want, and I don't see the point in tap-dancing around that."
~BEE
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March 8, 2021
The romance between Hook and Jonathon gets 5 stars. I had some issues with the writing but the romance was great.
July 4, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
November 2, 2019
I fell in love with London and Neverland North Carolina from the first paragraph of Pan. I have also been anticipating Hook from about 30% into Pan. Any seasoned author can incorporate wonder into a book for a side character, but Maxwell laced bits of Hook so perfectly that he was in my head throughout the rest of Peter’s book and the subsequent months after as I waited for this story to be completed.
Lots of authors write the tortured hero. None are quite like Captain James Hook though. He has taken bullet after bullet for the Lost Boys and his pirate crew over the years, but it cost him his self-image. His self-deprecation is both heart-breaking and somehow charming to John. Captain Hook is the “dark.” He is what everyone needs despite being feared. John Darling is the “light.” He heals and inspires everything he touches. His patience and sense of right and wrong are imperative throughout as he helps untangle Croc’s corrupt business and as Hook weeds through his own issues. Never has a couple felt so yin and yang in their utter perfection for each other.
This book was heavy but satisfying. I loved that I could feel the hurt, desperation, and anger because it made the love, justice, and happiness shine through all the more in those precious moments. This book is for anyone who knows love really can conquer all if we are patient enough to draw other’s dark out and brave enough to let other’s light in.
Lots of authors write the tortured hero. None are quite like Captain James Hook though. He has taken bullet after bullet for the Lost Boys and his pirate crew over the years, but it cost him his self-image. His self-deprecation is both heart-breaking and somehow charming to John. Captain Hook is the “dark.” He is what everyone needs despite being feared. John Darling is the “light.” He heals and inspires everything he touches. His patience and sense of right and wrong are imperative throughout as he helps untangle Croc’s corrupt business and as Hook weeds through his own issues. Never has a couple felt so yin and yang in their utter perfection for each other.
This book was heavy but satisfying. I loved that I could feel the hurt, desperation, and anger because it made the love, justice, and happiness shine through all the more in those precious moments. This book is for anyone who knows love really can conquer all if we are patient enough to draw other’s dark out and brave enough to let other’s light in.
November 6, 2019
Ok can I just give this book ALL the stars? I am blown away by the perfection Gina L. Maxwell gave us with this one. Her best work to date in my opinion. I absolutely could not put it down...and didn’t want it to end.
I’ve been dying for Hook and John’s story, and they were off the charts amazing. Hook is the tortured bad boy criminal with a devastating past, and John is the good boy clean cop who has always crushed on the man they call Captain. When an FBI investigation forces John to go undercover as one of Hooks crew, all bets are off and they finally explore all that attraction and chemistry that’s been building for years! Hook thinks of himself as broken. Damaged. Unfixable. His black heart has seen too much darkness. But John sees everything that Hook can’t. He’s in awe of the Pirate who has overcome so much, and still protects those who can’t protect themselves. Their connection was so beautiful, and the timing of this story was perfect. It had action, heart, SO MUCH HEAT, and alllll the feels. I adored this book so much.
I’ve been dying for Hook and John’s story, and they were off the charts amazing. Hook is the tortured bad boy criminal with a devastating past, and John is the good boy clean cop who has always crushed on the man they call Captain. When an FBI investigation forces John to go undercover as one of Hooks crew, all bets are off and they finally explore all that attraction and chemistry that’s been building for years! Hook thinks of himself as broken. Damaged. Unfixable. His black heart has seen too much darkness. But John sees everything that Hook can’t. He’s in awe of the Pirate who has overcome so much, and still protects those who can’t protect themselves. Their connection was so beautiful, and the timing of this story was perfect. It had action, heart, SO MUCH HEAT, and alllll the feels. I adored this book so much.
November 4, 2019
Hook by Gina Maxwell was a very dark, intense and disturbing read. I will warn you….. for those of you who are triggered by child abuse of a sexual nature you may want to be extra cautious. While there is no current abuse, there are flashbacks. That said, the flashbacks are not all explicitly graphic, however the author is very talented at painting the picture regardless. There will be no mistaking what you’re reading about.
I praise Gina Maxwell for the boundaries she crosses in her writing. These details are not easy to read, so I know that are even that much more difficult to write. that being said, I read a review copy but I understand in the original finished copy has an alternate chapter.
This book brought forth many emotions the most prominent being anger, and heartbreak. So, you are probably wondering why I read such a book? Life isn’t always painted with blue skies and butterflies. Sometimes we need reminders that this world isn’t perfect. Books like Hook bring that reality into perspective. And when we are given a beautifully written, believable happy ending our feeling of joy and elation will be that much more appreciated. I praise this author for writing realistic and believable text.
Hook is one of my favorite MM romances. Hook was a character whose whole purpose in life was to protect those around him. No matter how high and despicable the cost. Hook is a criminal by trade but not by choice. He is careful not to let people too close knowing the end will result in more despair for him and those he loves.
John Darling had a connection with Hook since they were children. But it wasn't until more than a decade later these two amazing men would be able to explore a relationship, albeit extremely carefully. I don’t want to give any of the story away. This is a book you’ll want to read without any spoilers. I don’t even want to comment on the last chapter; the ending. I will say that while I was pleased how things are going well for John and Hook, I am anxious for the next book in this series to assure me they are still going strong.
Hook is book two in Gina L. Maxwell’s Neverland series. The first book titled, Pan is Peter and Wendy’s story. It is also where we learn the dynamic of the Lost Boys, Hook and his pirates and the evil that is Fred Croc. Hook is a standalone but I think you’ll get more out of the story if you read Pan as well.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
I praise Gina Maxwell for the boundaries she crosses in her writing. These details are not easy to read, so I know that are even that much more difficult to write. that being said, I read a review copy but I understand in the original finished copy has an alternate chapter.
This book brought forth many emotions the most prominent being anger, and heartbreak. So, you are probably wondering why I read such a book? Life isn’t always painted with blue skies and butterflies. Sometimes we need reminders that this world isn’t perfect. Books like Hook bring that reality into perspective. And when we are given a beautifully written, believable happy ending our feeling of joy and elation will be that much more appreciated. I praise this author for writing realistic and believable text.
Hook is one of my favorite MM romances. Hook was a character whose whole purpose in life was to protect those around him. No matter how high and despicable the cost. Hook is a criminal by trade but not by choice. He is careful not to let people too close knowing the end will result in more despair for him and those he loves.
John Darling had a connection with Hook since they were children. But it wasn't until more than a decade later these two amazing men would be able to explore a relationship, albeit extremely carefully. I don’t want to give any of the story away. This is a book you’ll want to read without any spoilers. I don’t even want to comment on the last chapter; the ending. I will say that while I was pleased how things are going well for John and Hook, I am anxious for the next book in this series to assure me they are still going strong.
Hook is book two in Gina L. Maxwell’s Neverland series. The first book titled, Pan is Peter and Wendy’s story. It is also where we learn the dynamic of the Lost Boys, Hook and his pirates and the evil that is Fred Croc. Hook is a standalone but I think you’ll get more out of the story if you read Pan as well.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
November 6, 2019
I have been waiting for Hook ever since I finished the first book in this series, Pan, where we first meet John Darling and "Captain" Hook. G Maxwell has done an amazing job of creating a modern-take on this classic tale, and these characters surprised me in every way. I was glued to this story. Not only can G Maxwell write MM romance flawlessly, but she does it with deep emotion, and with real and raw feelings that you can't but help feel through the pages.
There are so many layers to Hook...his dark and tragic past broke this man, who everyone thinks is the villain, when in reality he is the savior. He is so selfless, but determined for revenge, and angry - oh so angry - when he first meets John Darling again in this book. I loved his character transformation - it was not easy learning his story, and watching him punish himself for all the mistakes and deeds of others; but it was absolutely beautiful when he finally stepped into the light and accepted himself for the man he truly is. My heart broke over and over again for this man!
And John Darling....this gentle giant has a heart of gold. The passion he has for not only Hook, but for helping others, had me drooling over him from the first Chapter. This man. He will make you swoon and sigh, and he is so hot that you'll need to fan yourself after a few scenes. He truly is a hero who would sacrifice anything for those he loves.
This story was steamy, suspenseful, and I shed tears of both pain and joy for these characters! G Maxwell's writing kept me glued to the pages and never wanting this story to end. Well done once again G Maxwell...I can't wait for what is to come next in this series!
There are so many layers to Hook...his dark and tragic past broke this man, who everyone thinks is the villain, when in reality he is the savior. He is so selfless, but determined for revenge, and angry - oh so angry - when he first meets John Darling again in this book. I loved his character transformation - it was not easy learning his story, and watching him punish himself for all the mistakes and deeds of others; but it was absolutely beautiful when he finally stepped into the light and accepted himself for the man he truly is. My heart broke over and over again for this man!
And John Darling....this gentle giant has a heart of gold. The passion he has for not only Hook, but for helping others, had me drooling over him from the first Chapter. This man. He will make you swoon and sigh, and he is so hot that you'll need to fan yourself after a few scenes. He truly is a hero who would sacrifice anything for those he loves.
This story was steamy, suspenseful, and I shed tears of both pain and joy for these characters! G Maxwell's writing kept me glued to the pages and never wanting this story to end. Well done once again G Maxwell...I can't wait for what is to come next in this series!
December 30, 2021
*Dec. 2021
“Thank you, Jonathan.”
“For what?”
“For everything. For being my happily ever after.”
“Always, Captain. Always.”
It’s been over 2 years since I first read this book and I’m still so in love with this couple. One of my all time favorite books 💙🖤
-——————————————————————————————
*original review Nov. 2019
“I'd rather be ruined by James Hook than be safe with anyone else." ~John Darling
I was intrigued by this book from the second I saw the cover and totally ready to dive in after reading the blurb. I've always loved the anti-hero, the flawed character with a chip on his shoulder but a secret heart full of gold. Gina has taken a beloved classic character and totally made me fall in love all over again!
This story is gritty and heartbreaking but also so full of hope and redemption. Hook and John are one of my new all time favorite couples, the heat and passion between them is enough to melt your kindle but the love and trust they share is really what makes this book worth the read. I felt every emotion from the two as if I was living it myself.
The writing sucks you right in and I wanted to stay in this world forever. I can't wait for the rest of the characters to get their HEA's!
“Thank you, Jonathan.”
“For what?”
“For everything. For being my happily ever after.”
“Always, Captain. Always.”
It’s been over 2 years since I first read this book and I’m still so in love with this couple. One of my all time favorite books 💙🖤
-——————————————————————————————
*original review Nov. 2019
“I'd rather be ruined by James Hook than be safe with anyone else." ~John Darling
I was intrigued by this book from the second I saw the cover and totally ready to dive in after reading the blurb. I've always loved the anti-hero, the flawed character with a chip on his shoulder but a secret heart full of gold. Gina has taken a beloved classic character and totally made me fall in love all over again!
This story is gritty and heartbreaking but also so full of hope and redemption. Hook and John are one of my new all time favorite couples, the heat and passion between them is enough to melt your kindle but the love and trust they share is really what makes this book worth the read. I felt every emotion from the two as if I was living it myself.
The writing sucks you right in and I wanted to stay in this world forever. I can't wait for the rest of the characters to get their HEA's!
July 25, 2021
Let me start off by saying that I think Gina Maxwell is a BRILLIANT author. That might be an understatement, but every time I read a new book of hers I'm blown away. I read this series in order starting with Pans book, and I loved it. I was able to tell where the abuse for Hook was going in the beginning of that book, and loved his character throughout Pan's story. This was the first m/m book I've read, and it dealt with so many sensitive subjects. But let me say, Hook's book was everything and more. The way the abuse and recovery was handled was so well written. And the romance between Hook and John was incredible. There was so much chemistry between the two and I couldn't help but love both of them separately and together. 5 stars all the damn way!
July 16, 2024
Re-Read: July 2024
Original Read: Nov 2022
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I did! Before diving into the review, I want to express my sadness that this is the author’s only MM romance to date because she knows how it’s done and that’s rare for authors who mostly write MF and try their hand at writing a random MM. Since I’m not interested in reading MF romances, I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we get more MM romances from her.
Another small aside - if you’re as unfamiliar with Peter Pan lore as I am and you’re worried that you won’t understand some parts of this re-telling – don’t be. I’m sure I missed tons of special references to Peter Pan lore but it was a completely normal dark contemporary romance with no Peter Pan related knowledge required in order to understand it. The characters and locations had weird names, but that’s it.
This book was very well done on many levels. It was a lot darker than I thought it would be but the romance between the MCs was so heartwarming and well done that it easily balanced the darker elements in the rest of the story. FYI, the story contains . Most of this is shown and the author doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities that these situations involve, which I appreciated. But as I said, despite the story involving a lot of heavy and dark themes, it didn’t feel overly dark because the romance was all about love, taking care of each other and healing.
At its core, this story is really James Hook’s story (don’t read the following spoiler if you don’t want to know his history).
The author does a fantastic job of building up this complex character who is grumpy and intimidating and uses sneers and rude comments to cover up the pain he’s hauled around for decades. I also loved how the author slowly reveals bits and pieces of James’ history throughout the book. A lot of things are obvious from the start but there are certain details that remain a mystery until James chooses to share more bits of information at specific times. It felt like the author was slowly putting together puzzle pieces and as more and more of the large picture came into view, the more fascinated I was by James but the more my heart broke for him.
What I also appreciated is that James doesn’t want others to view him as a victim. The abuse he suffered heavily impacts his daily life but he’s very capable of pushing that to the side when it comes to his responsibilities as Captain (ie the head of the drug dealing gang who work for Croc). He was tough, intimidating and a force to be reckoned with, which was beautifully balanced by the broken, lonely man he was when he's alone. He was doing a great job of existing and keeping those under his protection safe and happy but he wasn’t truly living.
Then John comes along and that’s when things finally get better for James. One of the things I loved is that John has known James since childhood. John and his sister Wendy used to sneak out at night and visit the orphanage boys and while James refused to spent much time with them as a group, John was instantly drawn to the moody, tough older boy and there was a serious case of hero worship going on. But as the years went by, the hero worship changed into John developed a deep respect and admiration for James. He didn’t know the specifics of the abuse James had endured but based on information he got from the other boys as they grew up, John never changes his opinion that James is the most awesome person on earth. This was such a perfect way of approaching the situation because James wouldn’t tolerate such admiration from anybody else. The only reason he does from John is because John’s been doing it for so long that James knows he can’t do anything to change it.
I also adored John as a character. He shares James' drive to protect the innocent and bring down bad guys but due to his privileged upbringing, John's life has always been on a completely different trajectory due to the differences in how they were raised - James is a criminal who keeps his crew safe by being involved in what they do and John is an FBI agent who uses the law and the privileges he was given throughout life to protect those who need help. What fascinated me was that they would have probably ended up in each other's positions if their childhood situations had been reversed.
In addition, I really appreciated that John is the stereotypical strait-laced Good Guy, but he's also tough and intelligent and James trusts John to take care of him. John's physical size and strength, his weapons training, his hand-to-hand combat training and his get-it-done attitude towards James' issues were all reasons that James felt safe with him and let down his barriers for the first time in his life.
I also found the usage of sex in the story really interesting. Right from the start, James and John realize they’re attracted to each other and they're happy to jump into bed together, as long as they’re doing it on James’ terms. This is where things got interesting because John is accustomed to topping and he’s never been interested in BDSM before, but when James makes it clear that he needs to be in charge during sex at all times, John happily agrees to try new things out. Then there were some SMOKING HOT sex scenes that were incredibly well done but I loved how important those scenes were for John and James’ relationship as well. Not only does James get to take a break from the darkness in his head when he’s focusing on sex but John realizes he enjoys being submissive and James gets the additional positives of being able to have sex in a way that makes him feel safe and in control but he also gets to take care of John in a way he can’t bring himself to outside of sex. The only thing I was disappointed by in terms of the smut scenes was that there aren't enough of them. We get two short scenes near the beginning which were really great but then the author tells us about future scenes via telling instead of showing and these scenes advance the MCs comfort level with each other quite a bit. There are more smut scenes after the halfway mark but I wish the author had switched things around and shown some of the telling-only scenes and vice versa.
The reason why I'm not giving this more than 3 stars is because the story was a bit repetitive and James was too emotional for my personal taste. To be fair - the abuse the poor guy has lived through was horrendous and I thought his PTSD was well portrayed. But having him be so overly emotional 24/7 felt OTT and not in character. Specifically, I found it exhausting that James constantly had the same thought processes and the same reactions to situations. No matter how good things were and how obvious it was that John and some of the other characters loved and cared for James, James would constantly remind himself that he's broken, tainted, unlovable, evil etc etc etc. He would roar and growl and go stomping around to emphasize how he's a very, very broken and bad person. While this type of thinking fit with the things he'd gone through, the repetition was boring and it felt OTT to me. The guy was 30 years old, not a teenager and I wish the author had dialed back his overly emotional displays and also decreased their frequency.
Connected to the above point - the suspense plotline was only a subplot in the story, which was a shame. The suspense stuff was intense and had the potential to be explored in much more detail but the author used way too much page time on James' repetitive, OTT angsting. I wish the author had split the focus evenly between the PTSD-recovery plotline and the suspense plotline, which would have helped balance things out and keep the pacing more even.
Despite those negatives, I still highly recommend this if you’re in the mood for an intense, emotional relationship progression between one damaged but tough man and another who has loved him for nearly his entire life and will wage war on demons any day, any time in order to make him feel loved.
Original Read: Nov 2022
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I did! Before diving into the review, I want to express my sadness that this is the author’s only MM romance to date because she knows how it’s done and that’s rare for authors who mostly write MF and try their hand at writing a random MM. Since I’m not interested in reading MF romances, I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we get more MM romances from her.
Another small aside - if you’re as unfamiliar with Peter Pan lore as I am and you’re worried that you won’t understand some parts of this re-telling – don’t be. I’m sure I missed tons of special references to Peter Pan lore but it was a completely normal dark contemporary romance with no Peter Pan related knowledge required in order to understand it. The characters and locations had weird names, but that’s it.
This book was very well done on many levels. It was a lot darker than I thought it would be but the romance between the MCs was so heartwarming and well done that it easily balanced the darker elements in the rest of the story. FYI, the story contains . Most of this is shown and the author doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities that these situations involve, which I appreciated. But as I said, despite the story involving a lot of heavy and dark themes, it didn’t feel overly dark because the romance was all about love, taking care of each other and healing.
At its core, this story is really James Hook’s story (don’t read the following spoiler if you don’t want to know his history).
The author does a fantastic job of building up this complex character who is grumpy and intimidating and uses sneers and rude comments to cover up the pain he’s hauled around for decades. I also loved how the author slowly reveals bits and pieces of James’ history throughout the book. A lot of things are obvious from the start but there are certain details that remain a mystery until James chooses to share more bits of information at specific times. It felt like the author was slowly putting together puzzle pieces and as more and more of the large picture came into view, the more fascinated I was by James but the more my heart broke for him.
What I also appreciated is that James doesn’t want others to view him as a victim. The abuse he suffered heavily impacts his daily life but he’s very capable of pushing that to the side when it comes to his responsibilities as Captain (ie the head of the drug dealing gang who work for Croc). He was tough, intimidating and a force to be reckoned with, which was beautifully balanced by the broken, lonely man he was when he's alone. He was doing a great job of existing and keeping those under his protection safe and happy but he wasn’t truly living.
Then John comes along and that’s when things finally get better for James. One of the things I loved is that John has known James since childhood. John and his sister Wendy used to sneak out at night and visit the orphanage boys and while James refused to spent much time with them as a group, John was instantly drawn to the moody, tough older boy and there was a serious case of hero worship going on. But as the years went by, the hero worship changed into John developed a deep respect and admiration for James. He didn’t know the specifics of the abuse James had endured but based on information he got from the other boys as they grew up, John never changes his opinion that James is the most awesome person on earth. This was such a perfect way of approaching the situation because James wouldn’t tolerate such admiration from anybody else. The only reason he does from John is because John’s been doing it for so long that James knows he can’t do anything to change it.
I also adored John as a character. He shares James' drive to protect the innocent and bring down bad guys but due to his privileged upbringing, John's life has always been on a completely different trajectory due to the differences in how they were raised - James is a criminal who keeps his crew safe by being involved in what they do and John is an FBI agent who uses the law and the privileges he was given throughout life to protect those who need help. What fascinated me was that they would have probably ended up in each other's positions if their childhood situations had been reversed.
In addition, I really appreciated that John is the stereotypical strait-laced Good Guy, but he's also tough and intelligent and James trusts John to take care of him. John's physical size and strength, his weapons training, his hand-to-hand combat training and his get-it-done attitude towards James' issues were all reasons that James felt safe with him and let down his barriers for the first time in his life.
I also found the usage of sex in the story really interesting. Right from the start, James and John realize they’re attracted to each other and they're happy to jump into bed together, as long as they’re doing it on James’ terms. This is where things got interesting because John is accustomed to topping and he’s never been interested in BDSM before, but when James makes it clear that he needs to be in charge during sex at all times, John happily agrees to try new things out. Then there were some SMOKING HOT sex scenes that were incredibly well done but I loved how important those scenes were for John and James’ relationship as well. Not only does James get to take a break from the darkness in his head when he’s focusing on sex but John realizes he enjoys being submissive and James gets the additional positives of being able to have sex in a way that makes him feel safe and in control but he also gets to take care of John in a way he can’t bring himself to outside of sex. The only thing I was disappointed by in terms of the smut scenes was that there aren't enough of them. We get two short scenes near the beginning which were really great but then the author tells us about future scenes via telling instead of showing and these scenes advance the MCs comfort level with each other quite a bit. There are more smut scenes after the halfway mark but I wish the author had switched things around and shown some of the telling-only scenes and vice versa.
The reason why I'm not giving this more than 3 stars is because the story was a bit repetitive and James was too emotional for my personal taste. To be fair - the abuse the poor guy has lived through was horrendous and I thought his PTSD was well portrayed. But having him be so overly emotional 24/7 felt OTT and not in character. Specifically, I found it exhausting that James constantly had the same thought processes and the same reactions to situations. No matter how good things were and how obvious it was that John and some of the other characters loved and cared for James, James would constantly remind himself that he's broken, tainted, unlovable, evil etc etc etc. He would roar and growl and go stomping around to emphasize how he's a very, very broken and bad person. While this type of thinking fit with the things he'd gone through, the repetition was boring and it felt OTT to me. The guy was 30 years old, not a teenager and I wish the author had dialed back his overly emotional displays and also decreased their frequency.
Connected to the above point - the suspense plotline was only a subplot in the story, which was a shame. The suspense stuff was intense and had the potential to be explored in much more detail but the author used way too much page time on James' repetitive, OTT angsting. I wish the author had split the focus evenly between the PTSD-recovery plotline and the suspense plotline, which would have helped balance things out and keep the pacing more even.
Despite those negatives, I still highly recommend this if you’re in the mood for an intense, emotional relationship progression between one damaged but tough man and another who has loved him for nearly his entire life and will wage war on demons any day, any time in order to make him feel loved.
October 31, 2019
What a wonderful book. I don't know the last time I cheered so hard for two characters to get together. Hook believes he is broken beyond repair, but John Darling is the perfect person to slowly, gently make him whole again. Although the characters are playfully based on the characters in the children's story, the themes of abuse get pretty dark. The author offers an alternative chapter if the reader would rather not read a particularly sensitive flashback. Kudos for this and for also having characters use consent, safe sex, and therapy.
Recommended. Standalone. No cliffhanger.
Content warning: History of sexual abuse (author provides alternate chapter on her website), themes of human trafficking, on-page violence.
Recommended. Standalone. No cliffhanger.
Content warning: History of sexual abuse (author provides alternate chapter on her website), themes of human trafficking, on-page violence.
November 2, 2019
Wicked Hook and darling John = so very intense.
I usually do not enjoy romances that are this dark but these characters are written so well and Gina Maxwell has done a really nice job on the reimagining of these characters in a contemporary setting. This series surprised me and is going to be gooooood.
I love her writing and this book was no exception.
I say 3.5 stars only because it has quite a bit of heavy subject matter, which, as reader was expected, but still difficult to read at times.
I usually do not enjoy romances that are this dark but these characters are written so well and Gina Maxwell has done a really nice job on the reimagining of these characters in a contemporary setting. This series surprised me and is going to be gooooood.
I love her writing and this book was no exception.
I say 3.5 stars only because it has quite a bit of heavy subject matter, which, as reader was expected, but still difficult to read at times.
December 30, 2020
I am in love with this book! John and Hook were everything. This was gritty and super steamy but also had tons of lovely sweet moments. I loved seeing Hook slowly open up and I loved that John never once gave up on him.
November 16, 2019
I usually do not read M/M storylines. I read one once that was poorly written so when a series has a book that is M/M centric I usually skip over it. When I read Pan I fell in love with Hook. There was no way I was going to skip his story. Gina Maxwell did not disappoint.
James Hook’s story is a hard one to read. With a drug addicted mother who died leaving two young children, James was forced to look out for his two year old brother. They find themselves in a loving home, with caring care-givers only to have the promise of a better life snatched away. They end up living in an environment of physical abuse at the hands of those who are supposed to take care of them. Now add in the element of sexual abuse. James Hook, being the type of personality to feel the need to shelter others allows himself to be abused so the other children do not have to endure the same pain and suffering he does.
All grown up, Hook still plots revenge against the man (Fred Croc) who abused him. This is when John Darling, Wendy’s brother, enters the story. John is a police office working a special task force charged with taking Fred Croc down. John infiltrates Hook’s band of Pirates in an effort to get an inside edge on Croc. John has always been secretly in love with Hook. Can John help James overcome the trauma of his childhood abuses? Can they take down Fred Croc?
Gina Maxwell wrote an amazing book that delved into incredibly tough topics. There are scenes that could trigger bad reactions from readers and Maxwell accounted for this with a warning and link to an alternative chapter. As a straight female I have to say the sex/intimate scenes were hot as hell. I fully recommend the whole series and I hope you fall in love with James and John as much as I did.
James Hook’s story is a hard one to read. With a drug addicted mother who died leaving two young children, James was forced to look out for his two year old brother. They find themselves in a loving home, with caring care-givers only to have the promise of a better life snatched away. They end up living in an environment of physical abuse at the hands of those who are supposed to take care of them. Now add in the element of sexual abuse. James Hook, being the type of personality to feel the need to shelter others allows himself to be abused so the other children do not have to endure the same pain and suffering he does.
All grown up, Hook still plots revenge against the man (Fred Croc) who abused him. This is when John Darling, Wendy’s brother, enters the story. John is a police office working a special task force charged with taking Fred Croc down. John infiltrates Hook’s band of Pirates in an effort to get an inside edge on Croc. John has always been secretly in love with Hook. Can John help James overcome the trauma of his childhood abuses? Can they take down Fred Croc?
Gina Maxwell wrote an amazing book that delved into incredibly tough topics. There are scenes that could trigger bad reactions from readers and Maxwell accounted for this with a warning and link to an alternative chapter. As a straight female I have to say the sex/intimate scenes were hot as hell. I fully recommend the whole series and I hope you fall in love with James and John as much as I did.
avoid
June 25, 2023Note: After reading a review on Amazon I’m removing this from my TBR. I think this book might be too heavy for my sensitivities. I really enjoy hurt/comfort but I need to feel the healing and it seems like this book has too much hurt prevalent throughout most of the story.
October 31, 2019
Like most of you, Hook by Gina L. Maxwell has been on my mind since finishing Pan and reading the bonus epilogue to get just a bit of insight into the tortured Hook and the man who wants to be the one to help save him. Unlike you, I’ve been privy to Hook and John’s journey from the start; I’ve been just a message away as Gina L. Maxwell painstakingly worked to be true to Hook and John’s character, to truly illustrate just how much Hook loathes himself, even though he tries to hide his pain, his darkness, his self-recriminations, so that he remains the silent and broody Captain who most fear and/or idolize.
Hook’s process of self-discovery, of allowing his sins and his nightmares to be unleashed, not for public consumption, but for one person who promises to bring light to his world is not a straightforward situation or a quick process. The physical and mental abuse that Hook suffered and the ways he’s tried to cope with his demons wasn’t a productive method, but it’s the only way he’s known, and that’s going to be a difficult habit to break, but if there was anyone who could do it, it was John Darling, the boy who worshipped Captain Hook and now the man who sees Hook as his Captain and no one else’s.
As much as John is the hero of this story, and believe me, he is one amazing guy who constantly battles for those who can’t do it themselves because he wants to give a voice and some light to the lost and lonely of London. The way that he methodically works his way into, not only Hook’s space, but his heart, illustrates that he is a man of conviction and he won’t stop when it’s something he truly believes in or someone he truly feels deserves the world - like he does when it comes to James.
Hook may not see himself as a hero, and let’s be honest, he definitely does commit quite a few unheroic acts, but he’s not the villain either; he’s not a monster who is irredeemable - that hellacious honor goes to the devil himself - Croc. But Hook, to me, is a scarred and tortured man who was once a boy whose life was never truly his own…who sacrificed his body and his soul so that no one else would have to suffer what he himself did and if that doesn’t speak to just how heroic he is - scars and all - I don’t know what does.
Even at the end of the story - an emotional and character-driven tale - Hook is still a work-in-progress and rightly so because the damage done to him is not something that will ever go away…but it is something he can learn to cope with…to deal with in a way that is not counterproductive and, thankfully, John will be there to bring Hook back into the light when the darkness gets a little bit too close for comfort.
Gina L. Maxwell wrote Hook and John’s story as Hook wanted and needed it to be - the pushy bastard - but it’s his book, so it makes sense that he would be the one to demand more from Gina than she thought possible, but with John’s guidance and light and Hook’s resolve to lay everything out for the readers to see, Gina has served as Hook’s mouthpiece and did amazing justice to his and John’s journey!!!
Hook’s process of self-discovery, of allowing his sins and his nightmares to be unleashed, not for public consumption, but for one person who promises to bring light to his world is not a straightforward situation or a quick process. The physical and mental abuse that Hook suffered and the ways he’s tried to cope with his demons wasn’t a productive method, but it’s the only way he’s known, and that’s going to be a difficult habit to break, but if there was anyone who could do it, it was John Darling, the boy who worshipped Captain Hook and now the man who sees Hook as his Captain and no one else’s.
As much as John is the hero of this story, and believe me, he is one amazing guy who constantly battles for those who can’t do it themselves because he wants to give a voice and some light to the lost and lonely of London. The way that he methodically works his way into, not only Hook’s space, but his heart, illustrates that he is a man of conviction and he won’t stop when it’s something he truly believes in or someone he truly feels deserves the world - like he does when it comes to James.
Hook may not see himself as a hero, and let’s be honest, he definitely does commit quite a few unheroic acts, but he’s not the villain either; he’s not a monster who is irredeemable - that hellacious honor goes to the devil himself - Croc. But Hook, to me, is a scarred and tortured man who was once a boy whose life was never truly his own…who sacrificed his body and his soul so that no one else would have to suffer what he himself did and if that doesn’t speak to just how heroic he is - scars and all - I don’t know what does.
Even at the end of the story - an emotional and character-driven tale - Hook is still a work-in-progress and rightly so because the damage done to him is not something that will ever go away…but it is something he can learn to cope with…to deal with in a way that is not counterproductive and, thankfully, John will be there to bring Hook back into the light when the darkness gets a little bit too close for comfort.
Gina L. Maxwell wrote Hook and John’s story as Hook wanted and needed it to be - the pushy bastard - but it’s his book, so it makes sense that he would be the one to demand more from Gina than she thought possible, but with John’s guidance and light and Hook’s resolve to lay everything out for the readers to see, Gina has served as Hook’s mouthpiece and did amazing justice to his and John’s journey!!!
December 7, 2019
Hook is the very definition of angst. Gina Maxwell doesn't hold back as she gives us the at times very excruciating tale of one James Hook and the man who would ultimately save him in more ways than one, the truly wonderful John Darling. These two have known each other since they were kids when John's sister Wendy first discovered the Lost Boys and gave them some joy in their less than ideal lives. John always felt something a bit more for Hook, daring even to call him by his first name when James despised the word. And now as adults. with the brazen cop and the hesitant drug pusher face to face once more, all bets are off as they come together both professionally and personally and take on Hook's demons once and for all.
Wow. This story is incredible. Taking yet another piece of the Peter Pan legacy, Maxwell turns the saga of Hook on it's ear and ravages the readers with her no holds barred view into his complex world. My heart broke over and over again as the memories surfaced of his 'special times' with that demonic Fred Croc. I'm not sure I would have been as calm as the stoic John was as he starts to break down the hardened walls of Hook's heart. Taking the time to know him and become what he needs, even going against his own desires all the while making sure Hook felt some semblance of comfort. In a word, John becomes his savior. The road they travel, albeit wildly bumpy and unforgiving at times, is also one filled with hope and the promise of a salvation Hook never even considered.
John Darling is one special man. His tenderness towards Hook. His promise of light, when Hook's world was so very dark had me smiling through some tears as he becomes the ultimate tether and eventual weapon in the war against Croc. Maxwell combines this burgeoning love story with the desire to bring down the evil Croc and it's as much a race against time to bring him to justice as it is to save the last remnants of Hook's soul. To say I was hooked is an understatement.
And then there is the reluctant star of this book, James Hook himself. The brooding hero is beautiful and selfless and broken. I wanted to reach into my ereader and smother him with hugs even if he couldn't accept them. His desire to fix the wrongs both done to him and his Pirates, most importantly Starkey, showed his strength even as he often felt he was at a crossroads and didn't know how to continue. But with his Johnathan by his side, the real James began to emerge once more and it's truly a fight to the finish as their relationship and their mission to bring down Croc fatefully combine in ways that are beyond their comprehension.
Hook is one powerful book as Maxwell takes a turn in the M/M genre and delivers a triumphant love story that is steamy and tender and full of a desire that cannot be extinguished. With some rare lighter moments with Pan, Wendy and Smee (he is a scene stealer time and again), Hook kept me riveted and I was determined to see this adventure through even it meant my heart would be in my throat more than once. And it was. But I wouldn't change one moment of it.
A very worthy and exceptional second book in this Neverland series, I happily give Hook 5+ stars!
Wow. This story is incredible. Taking yet another piece of the Peter Pan legacy, Maxwell turns the saga of Hook on it's ear and ravages the readers with her no holds barred view into his complex world. My heart broke over and over again as the memories surfaced of his 'special times' with that demonic Fred Croc. I'm not sure I would have been as calm as the stoic John was as he starts to break down the hardened walls of Hook's heart. Taking the time to know him and become what he needs, even going against his own desires all the while making sure Hook felt some semblance of comfort. In a word, John becomes his savior. The road they travel, albeit wildly bumpy and unforgiving at times, is also one filled with hope and the promise of a salvation Hook never even considered.
John Darling is one special man. His tenderness towards Hook. His promise of light, when Hook's world was so very dark had me smiling through some tears as he becomes the ultimate tether and eventual weapon in the war against Croc. Maxwell combines this burgeoning love story with the desire to bring down the evil Croc and it's as much a race against time to bring him to justice as it is to save the last remnants of Hook's soul. To say I was hooked is an understatement.
And then there is the reluctant star of this book, James Hook himself. The brooding hero is beautiful and selfless and broken. I wanted to reach into my ereader and smother him with hugs even if he couldn't accept them. His desire to fix the wrongs both done to him and his Pirates, most importantly Starkey, showed his strength even as he often felt he was at a crossroads and didn't know how to continue. But with his Johnathan by his side, the real James began to emerge once more and it's truly a fight to the finish as their relationship and their mission to bring down Croc fatefully combine in ways that are beyond their comprehension.
Hook is one powerful book as Maxwell takes a turn in the M/M genre and delivers a triumphant love story that is steamy and tender and full of a desire that cannot be extinguished. With some rare lighter moments with Pan, Wendy and Smee (he is a scene stealer time and again), Hook kept me riveted and I was determined to see this adventure through even it meant my heart would be in my throat more than once. And it was. But I wouldn't change one moment of it.
A very worthy and exceptional second book in this Neverland series, I happily give Hook 5+ stars!
June 28, 2023
This book took a lot out of me and required many pick-up-put-down sessions to get through it. This was in no way because of the writing or anything negative, but because of the dark and gut-wrenching emotions Maxwell was able to evoke throughout the story. My stomach physically hurt reading this book at times from seeing all the flashbacks to Hook’s childhood as well as sitting alongside him while he battled his demons and feelings of brokenness. Not only was Maxwell able to expertly craft his insecurities and responses to them, but what really hit me was how real this could all be. Thankfully, I have never been the survivor of SA, but the fact that this story conjures up the thoughts of how realistic this situation can be, was enough to make me nauseous and pissed off at the same time.
And then came along John Darling: a white knight since they were kids, with a soft side perfect to support Hook. Not only was John incredibly smart and badass in his own right, but he was the perfect light to Hook’s darkness. At no point did he rush Hook’s trust or intimacy, at no point did he present ultimatums, and at no point did he buy into Hook’s bullshit when Hook tried to push him away; he was the ultimate loving and caring partner that Hook so desperately needed in life. Furthermore, I loved that there was this feeling that John did not save Hook, but supported him as he saved himself. That is absolutely beautiful. These two were hands down one of the best couples I think I’ve ever read.
On a lighter note, I of course loved the fairy tale connection, them knowing each other since childhood, the “villain” getting an HEA, and the spicy scenes. Everything was so exquisitely done.
I knew I would like this book, what I didn’t know was that I would love it this much.
And then came along John Darling: a white knight since they were kids, with a soft side perfect to support Hook. Not only was John incredibly smart and badass in his own right, but he was the perfect light to Hook’s darkness. At no point did he rush Hook’s trust or intimacy, at no point did he present ultimatums, and at no point did he buy into Hook’s bullshit when Hook tried to push him away; he was the ultimate loving and caring partner that Hook so desperately needed in life. Furthermore, I loved that there was this feeling that John did not save Hook, but supported him as he saved himself. That is absolutely beautiful. These two were hands down one of the best couples I think I’ve ever read.
On a lighter note, I of course loved the fairy tale connection, them knowing each other since childhood, the “villain” getting an HEA, and the spicy scenes. Everything was so exquisitely done.
I knew I would like this book, what I didn’t know was that I would love it this much.
November 11, 2019
Ever since I discovered Gina, I've loved her books. She has a style and tone to her writing that really grooves with my own inner voice, making those books easy and fun to read. I really enjoyed Pan as well, loving the modern-day take she had on these classic literary characters.
There was much hype about Hook's book and I was excited to dig in, especially once I started seeing Gina's posts about writing it on social media. And the hype was not in vain because this book blew my doors off.
Gina tackled some VERY sensitive topics with this story but she did so with care and responsibility and in such a way that I felt invited in instead of pushed out. James Hook is an amazing character, my favorite sort. The bad boy with the heart of gold. But in Hook's case, it's even more heartbreaking because of the trauma he has been dealt in life. He truly believed he was the villain and there was nothing anyone could do or say to dissuade him of that. Until John Darling, that is. John is the first person to really push past Hook's bluster. The tenderness of their scenes together truly made me root for these two, despite the "cop/robber" dichotomy.
I don't want to spoil too much for anyone who hasn't read this book but know there were some parts that made me gasp out loud, cry out "no!" and also raise a fist and cheer. I really ran the gamut of emotions while reading this, which, isn't that the most we can hope for when reading a book? I've been thinking about it for days now, even more so since I set it down and I will probably think about it for a long time. These characters found their way into my heart.
Read this. It's truly Gina's masterpiece.
There was much hype about Hook's book and I was excited to dig in, especially once I started seeing Gina's posts about writing it on social media. And the hype was not in vain because this book blew my doors off.
Gina tackled some VERY sensitive topics with this story but she did so with care and responsibility and in such a way that I felt invited in instead of pushed out. James Hook is an amazing character, my favorite sort. The bad boy with the heart of gold. But in Hook's case, it's even more heartbreaking because of the trauma he has been dealt in life. He truly believed he was the villain and there was nothing anyone could do or say to dissuade him of that. Until John Darling, that is. John is the first person to really push past Hook's bluster. The tenderness of their scenes together truly made me root for these two, despite the "cop/robber" dichotomy.
I don't want to spoil too much for anyone who hasn't read this book but know there were some parts that made me gasp out loud, cry out "no!" and also raise a fist and cheer. I really ran the gamut of emotions while reading this, which, isn't that the most we can hope for when reading a book? I've been thinking about it for days now, even more so since I set it down and I will probably think about it for a long time. These characters found their way into my heart.
Read this. It's truly Gina's masterpiece.
November 22, 2019
A gay retelling of Peter Pan... Who would have thought it would turn out so good?!
I am a fan of retellings. Especially gender swapping ones. Though I can't say I would use Peter Pan as the basis. Maybe it's because despite discovering how adult-content are some fairytales (for example Red Riding Hood just as a big metaphor - and a cautionary tale for girls - about deflowering, like, you know, I am gonna "eat" you, little girl) there are still a few I would have a hard time picturing as a romance. Maybe it's because Peter Pan is not one of those stories I think about that often. Maybe it's because it's basically about kids not growing up which means any kind of romance would be the kid kind which is just... pointless? For that age category as well as adults?
And I can't say I was a fan of Peter. In this book. Didn't read the first one.
But as retellings go, this was only took the bare bones of the story and added a lot of extra material. Captain had no ship cause there is no sea, he was kind of part of the Lost Boys and Peter's friend, he had a brother, his crew was a bunch of mercenaries (as opposed to being a kind of family, like Pan has) and he's definitely not his own boss - just to name a few.
It was a little bit "dramatic" but I totally ate that up, which doesn't happen that often. Hook was all tragic monologues about how his life is effed up, he is even more so and the only reason he shouldn't end it is that people depend on him.
And his beau was his match in the important stuff - he could take everything Hook was giving out and not complain, just take it and be there and just give him what no one else could - his trust and his heart. As sappy as that sounds.
Their relationship was definitely the best thing, took the front stage and all, so there was not as much action and any character progress was part of the romance.
All the names were kept, as much as they could have been but this is mostly a story about a guy with a shitty past that is still trying to dig his way out of the hole his life has always been - just to meet the nice detective (that used to come as kid to the orphanage) so they can maybe save everyone - including Hook's... sanity?
Recommend.
I am a fan of retellings. Especially gender swapping ones. Though I can't say I would use Peter Pan as the basis. Maybe it's because despite discovering how adult-content are some fairytales (for example Red Riding Hood just as a big metaphor - and a cautionary tale for girls - about deflowering, like, you know, I am gonna "eat" you, little girl) there are still a few I would have a hard time picturing as a romance. Maybe it's because Peter Pan is not one of those stories I think about that often. Maybe it's because it's basically about kids not growing up which means any kind of romance would be the kid kind which is just... pointless? For that age category as well as adults?
And I can't say I was a fan of Peter. In this book. Didn't read the first one.
But as retellings go, this was only took the bare bones of the story and added a lot of extra material. Captain had no ship cause there is no sea, he was kind of part of the Lost Boys and Peter's friend, he had a brother, his crew was a bunch of mercenaries (as opposed to being a kind of family, like Pan has) and he's definitely not his own boss - just to name a few.
It was a little bit "dramatic" but I totally ate that up, which doesn't happen that often. Hook was all tragic monologues about how his life is effed up, he is even more so and the only reason he shouldn't end it is that people depend on him.
And his beau was his match in the important stuff - he could take everything Hook was giving out and not complain, just take it and be there and just give him what no one else could - his trust and his heart. As sappy as that sounds.
Their relationship was definitely the best thing, took the front stage and all, so there was not as much action and any character progress was part of the romance.
All the names were kept, as much as they could have been but this is mostly a story about a guy with a shitty past that is still trying to dig his way out of the hole his life has always been - just to meet the nice detective (that used to come as kid to the orphanage) so they can maybe save everyone - including Hook's... sanity?
Recommend.
November 5, 2019
Hook’s story is all I wanted and more........
I’ve waited for this story and I was NOT disappointed, Maxwell has created a story about a hero that can’t see himself as anything but a villain. John helps Hook in so many ways and the relationship building between them throughout the book is heartbreaking and raw but holds a hint of what can be.
The storyline is excellent and I have problems putting it down.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good and plenty of dialogues
I’ve got to know Hook and John in the previous book in this series so I got some glimpse of what could be and their personalities.
Love scenes is intense but also tender in some ways.
Maxwell has created a world I would love to read more about and the secondary characters is intriguing so the waiting begins again.....
5 stars mm romance that definitely can be read again.
I’ve waited for this story and I was NOT disappointed, Maxwell has created a story about a hero that can’t see himself as anything but a villain. John helps Hook in so many ways and the relationship building between them throughout the book is heartbreaking and raw but holds a hint of what can be.
The storyline is excellent and I have problems putting it down.
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good and plenty of dialogues
I’ve got to know Hook and John in the previous book in this series so I got some glimpse of what could be and their personalities.
Love scenes is intense but also tender in some ways.
Maxwell has created a world I would love to read more about and the secondary characters is intriguing so the waiting begins again.....
5 stars mm romance that definitely can be read again.
November 14, 2019
Hook was everything I wanted it to be...adventurous, sexy, suspenseful, full of emotion. I could not have asked for it to be better. Half way through, I knew what I needed to make it a true HEA, and Ms. Maxwell delivered. And proves yet again why she's my go-to author.
Thank you for taking me on such a ride that I lost myself in the story and could even put myself in it. The descriptions, the emotions, made me feel as if I were in the middle of everything that was happening.
Thank you, Ms. Maxwell for a story that won't leave me any time soon. #alwayscaptainalways
Thank you for taking me on such a ride that I lost myself in the story and could even put myself in it. The descriptions, the emotions, made me feel as if I were in the middle of everything that was happening.
Thank you, Ms. Maxwell for a story that won't leave me any time soon. #alwayscaptainalways
November 23, 2019
Holy shiz nit. This was a really hot book. M/M if yall didnt catch that. But holy moly i loved it. So so good. Worth the wait and everything. I loved James Hook and John Darling. These guys were the perfect pair. I loved seeing Pan and Wendy. Can i just say im really excited for the other Neverland books!
November 3, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It was everything I was expecting from the second book in this series. It was hard to read at certain points as it deals with some serious issues and your heart will break. However it has a beautiful HEA.
January 19, 2025
yummy and that’s all I gotta say about it
James and John absolutely melt my heart. Such a surprisingly intricate story blending trauma, vulnerability, and acceptance. And they call each other baby, ouch my heartttttt! Miss Maxwell, I’m gonna need tink and Michael’s story now pls
James and John absolutely melt my heart. Such a surprisingly intricate story blending trauma, vulnerability, and acceptance. And they call each other baby, ouch my heartttttt! Miss Maxwell, I’m gonna need tink and Michael’s story now pls
October 30, 2019
Sooo good. Can't wait for Tink now. Thanks to Gina for constant updates on Twitter as to books progress and release!
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