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Archie Jameson sat in the dark corners of the print shop, dreaming of adventure. Today, it found him. Caught in a chilly October storm, he ducked into a tavern, hoping to escape the rain. What he found, was a room teeming with pirates. Shanghaied by the most elderly of the lot, Archie found himself serving on a ship captained by the fiercest pirate ever to sail the seven seas— the man known as Blackbeard. Through a series of thrilling twists, Archie finds himself captain of another of Blackbeard's ships, the Jolig Roger. In an attempt to flee danger, his ship becomes lost under stars never before seen. Determined to save both his crew and the woman he loves, Archie will make decisions that will forever seal his fate. Discover the untold story of the man who became Captain Hook.
281 pages, Paperback
First published December 14, 2014
116 people are currently reading
3435 people want to read
About the author
K.R. Thompson
34 books248 followersK.R. Thompson was raised in the mountains of rural Virginia. She resides in Bland County with her husband, son, two cats and an undeterminable amount of chickens. She is an avid reader, firm believer of magic, and still watches for evidence of Bigfoot in the mud of Wolf Creek. She can be found on her website-- http://authorkrthompson.wix.com/theke...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 23, 2016
Everyone has heard some version of the story of Hook and Peter Pan. So when I read the blurb I was really intrigued. The back story of how Hook became well, Hook was a lot darker than what was portrayed in children's stories and disney movies but for me I loved this version. It showed real life, and how it doesn't always turn out how you hope it will. This wasn't a happy story but one of loss but also love and friendship. I really loved all the characters, main and secondary. The world the author created was magical and made you wish Neverland was real. I don't want to give too much away (although you know how it will end somewhat). The ending though left me wanting more and I can't wait for the next book! 4 Stars!
April 6, 2015
Was Peter Pan always just a well-meaning lost boy or was he more? Was Captain Hook’s hatred for Peter justified or just the nastiness of a black-hearted pirate? In one of the best tales of how Captain Hook came to be, K.R. Thompson’s Hook tells the tale of a man whose life was destroyed by the callousness of a flying boy. Archie was a dreamer, longing for adventure, but his dreams were cut short when he was kidnapped and consigned to the crew of the feared pirate, Blackbeard. Through fate or sheer dumb luck, Archie becomes a trusted member of the pirate’s crew as they plunder the seas for anything they can turn into gold at the nearest port.
As an honorable pirate, Archie is thrilled with the title, the adventure and he proves himself worthy of Blackbeard’s trust when they gain another ship, the Jolig Roger, after a fierce battle, he becomes its captain. The cargo is far more precious than he could know as hostages are discovered below deck and he finds the love of his life. There is magic aboard his ship and they are locked in its spell, never to leave the waters around an island inhabited by lost boys. When his reason for existing is taken from him with cold calculation, his heart is forever poisoned, and Captain Hook is born.
K.R Thompson’s story-telling is simply amazing! I found myself rooting for the misunderstood pirates, who, in spite of their wicked ways, had a code of honor that they never broke. See beloved characters through a whole new looking glass! Full of action, adventure and imagination, Never Never Land takes on a very different face. And Peter? He’s not just a lonely boy and in magical place. The transformation of young Archie into the dark and soulless Hook could almost bring tears to one’s eyes. This is magical Adult Fantasy that screams, “…The Rest of the Story…” I’m so glad I am finally old enough to appreciate the darker side of pretend. I only wonder, how did K.R. Thompson get the inside scoop?
Publication Date: January 1, 2015
Publisher: K. R. Thompson
ISBN-13: 9781503228320
ISBN: 1503228320
Genre: Fairytale re-telling, fantasy
Print Length: 283 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
As an honorable pirate, Archie is thrilled with the title, the adventure and he proves himself worthy of Blackbeard’s trust when they gain another ship, the Jolig Roger, after a fierce battle, he becomes its captain. The cargo is far more precious than he could know as hostages are discovered below deck and he finds the love of his life. There is magic aboard his ship and they are locked in its spell, never to leave the waters around an island inhabited by lost boys. When his reason for existing is taken from him with cold calculation, his heart is forever poisoned, and Captain Hook is born.
K.R Thompson’s story-telling is simply amazing! I found myself rooting for the misunderstood pirates, who, in spite of their wicked ways, had a code of honor that they never broke. See beloved characters through a whole new looking glass! Full of action, adventure and imagination, Never Never Land takes on a very different face. And Peter? He’s not just a lonely boy and in magical place. The transformation of young Archie into the dark and soulless Hook could almost bring tears to one’s eyes. This is magical Adult Fantasy that screams, “…The Rest of the Story…” I’m so glad I am finally old enough to appreciate the darker side of pretend. I only wonder, how did K.R. Thompson get the inside scoop?
Publication Date: January 1, 2015
Publisher: K. R. Thompson
ISBN-13: 9781503228320
ISBN: 1503228320
Genre: Fairytale re-telling, fantasy
Print Length: 283 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 6, 2015
Book provided by author for an honest review.
I am a sucker for a good retelling, if said retelling is from the viewpoint of the 'villain' all the better!
The beginning of the book drug a little bit for me. A little bit of world building....'Hook' was one boring individual.
Lets get to the pirates and where the hell is Peter Pan?!
The ball gets rolling and familiar characters are introduced in a different light. I don't want to give anything away but I certainly liked the twist on the old familiar story (even if it was a little hard for a 'forever Peter fan')
The next book promises to introduce Wendy! I love that girl, I would certainly be interested to read her story.
I would recommend this to anyone that likes Pirates or an interesting twist on an old familiar story. Happy Reading!
I am a sucker for a good retelling, if said retelling is from the viewpoint of the 'villain' all the better!
The beginning of the book drug a little bit for me. A little bit of world building....'Hook' was one boring individual.
Lets get to the pirates and where the hell is Peter Pan?!
The ball gets rolling and familiar characters are introduced in a different light. I don't want to give anything away but I certainly liked the twist on the old familiar story (even if it was a little hard for a 'forever Peter fan')
The next book promises to introduce Wendy! I love that girl, I would certainly be interested to read her story.
I would recommend this to anyone that likes Pirates or an interesting twist on an old familiar story. Happy Reading!
March 6, 2015
I really enjoyed this story. I found not only the characters engaging but also the storyline itself.. This is especially impressive because I knew how it would end--we're all familiar with the Peter Pan story--but I was still captivated. Archie was a wonderful character; well developed and sympathetic. For a while I just couldn't see how he would transform but in the end Ms. Thompson nailed it. I always enjoy stories that take what we already know to be a villain and show how a normal person would arrive at that place. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
March 26, 2015
What a fantastic take on how Hook came to be. I always fancied Peter to be more dark and devious...and wondered about the seemingly unending feud between Hook and him. This book was again, fantastic, and unraveled a tale that I didn't want to put down, let alone end!
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book, is it bad that I want Peter to go down? Like, badly.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. (LoP r2r)
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book, is it bad that I want Peter to go down? Like, badly.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. (LoP r2r)
January 26, 2015
Hook is a Great read!!
I love reading stories that are a spin off what most people consider classic. When I was younger I wondered where Hook and his crew came from, the only adults in all of neverland. . . With the a grand ship and huge grudge. K.R. Thompson gave me an amazing answer to my question. I can not wait to read more of this series!!!
I love reading stories that are a spin off what most people consider classic. When I was younger I wondered where Hook and his crew came from, the only adults in all of neverland. . . With the a grand ship and huge grudge. K.R. Thompson gave me an amazing answer to my question. I can not wait to read more of this series!!!
February 16, 2015
This is the story of how Captain Hook came to be. Captain Hook’s real name is Archie Jameson. He had inherited a business from her father. He didn’t really like it but bills needed to be paid and he needed to eat. He was on his way home one day and popped into a pub to avoid the coming storm. That once choice changed that rest of his life. The men in the pub drugged him and took him aboard their ship per the captain’s orders just because he could read. The captain of the ship was none other than Blackbeard on he was the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Archie wasn’t crazy about climbing the rigging so when the Captain asked if he had any skills he said cooking. Too bad he can’t cook to save his life. After a couple days Smee took pity on him and helped him. While taking dinner to the Captain he started commenting on the charts. The captain asked if he knew how to read them and when he said yes Blackbeard offered him a new job as navigator. The crew was never happier. They overtook another ship while sailing and then stopped to sell the booty that was aboard the ship they took. When they set sail again he was put aboard the ship they had taken, the Jolly Roger. Everything after this leads to how Archie Jameson became Captain Hook.
I enjoyed this book a lot. I like books like this that adds to a story that is already a classic. This book adds to the story of Peter Pan so much. It even shows a different take on Peter himself and what kind of creature he is exactly. It shows a different side of Hook. He is always thought of as wanting to get Peter and a cold, mean man. This explains how he got that way. You also learn about the lost boys. I don’t want to give too much away. There are mermaids, lost boys, fairies, and so much more in this book. This book was very well written. It also had some twists and turns that made you want to keep reading to find out what happened. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book a lot. I like books like this that adds to a story that is already a classic. This book adds to the story of Peter Pan so much. It even shows a different take on Peter himself and what kind of creature he is exactly. It shows a different side of Hook. He is always thought of as wanting to get Peter and a cold, mean man. This explains how he got that way. You also learn about the lost boys. I don’t want to give too much away. There are mermaids, lost boys, fairies, and so much more in this book. This book was very well written. It also had some twists and turns that made you want to keep reading to find out what happened. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
April 1, 2015
I received this book from the author through LoP in exchange for an honest review.
Hook is a Peter Pan prequel, which reveals the origins of Hook and his feud with Peter. It was very interesting to read an origins tale from a different perspective. Hook begins his pirate life as Archibald Jameson. The pirate life takes hold during a time when he is unhappy with the shape his life has taken. While he is unhappy at first, he quickly grows into his new role and finds that he likes it much better than the one he used to have. We see him quickly move up the ranks and eventually become the captain, but the final step in his transformation to the Captain that we know comes at a cost.
We meet a variety of characters, new and old, during his evolution. I really wish that Talulah’s storyline was fleshed out and that I think that there could have been much more to her storyline. Peter Pan is presented as an ominous, devilish, character. I thought that it was rather interesting. His characterization strongly reminded me of the Once Upon A Time version of Peter Pan. Overall, much of the story was interesting and I think it is worth reading if you are looking for a more ominous Peter Pan retelling.
Hook is a Peter Pan prequel, which reveals the origins of Hook and his feud with Peter. It was very interesting to read an origins tale from a different perspective. Hook begins his pirate life as Archibald Jameson. The pirate life takes hold during a time when he is unhappy with the shape his life has taken. While he is unhappy at first, he quickly grows into his new role and finds that he likes it much better than the one he used to have. We see him quickly move up the ranks and eventually become the captain, but the final step in his transformation to the Captain that we know comes at a cost.
We meet a variety of characters, new and old, during his evolution. I really wish that Talulah’s storyline was fleshed out and that I think that there could have been much more to her storyline. Peter Pan is presented as an ominous, devilish, character. I thought that it was rather interesting. His characterization strongly reminded me of the Once Upon A Time version of Peter Pan. Overall, much of the story was interesting and I think it is worth reading if you are looking for a more ominous Peter Pan retelling.
January 3, 2015
A Fascinating story, and in no way your classic 'Peter Pan' fairy tale! Ms Thompson writes an amazing world filled with all the things we didn't know about Cap'n Hook... who he was and how he became captain of the Jolig Roger. The wonderful characters he meets,(old and new alike) the adventures he takes and along with a few unexpected twists we find out how he became, Hook!
The authors attention to details, and vivid descriptions, made this story come alive. A fantasy adventure, that really had me Hooked, (Yes I said it) Neverland will never look the same again.
I loved, loved, loved this story, (definitely going to the re-read shelf)and I look forward to reading more adventures in the 'Untold Stories of Neverland'
The authors attention to details, and vivid descriptions, made this story come alive. A fantasy adventure, that really had me Hooked, (Yes I said it) Neverland will never look the same again.
I loved, loved, loved this story, (definitely going to the re-read shelf)and I look forward to reading more adventures in the 'Untold Stories of Neverland'
February 11, 2015
what a cover! Can't wait to read this Captain Hook tale, it sounds full of swashbuckling adventure... delicious!
February 6, 2015
Free book for honest review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
KR Thompson takes the classic story of Peter Pan and Captain Hook and puts a
unique, creative spin to this well-known story.
In HOOK, Archibald Jameson eagerly leaves his boring print job to head home.
An impending storm causes Archie to alter his usual route as he seeks shelter in a
tavern.
As a young man named Harper stumbles to read a letter, Archibald has mercy and
whispers the information to him. The next thing he knows, he wakes up on board
the Queen Anne's Revenge. He learns the cunning and crafty pirate, Smee,
drugged his ale, and he is now sailing under the command of the most notorious
pirate, Blackbeard.
Instead of trying to flee the situation he's been placed in, Archie finds himself
embracing this new adventure.
Archie proves himself to be a capable, yet honorable pirate with a taste for
tailored clothing. As the adventures continue, circumstances soon find him as
Captain of Blackbeard's acquired ship, the Jolig Roger. Archie rules with fairness
and integrity. Although he's a pirate, he's a likeable guy.
As Archie guides the Jolig Roger out into a storm to avoid capture from the
British Navy, he notices the familiar constellations have disappeared. His pixie
friend, Ms. Bell, helps guide them into an alternate world.
Archie and his crew find themselves in enchanted waters with a magical island.
No matter which course Archie plots, the Jolig Roger manages to return to the
mysterious island, Never Land.
With their food and supplies dwindled to nothing, Archie finally relents and
anchors so they can hunt. He quickly realizes that his pirates make better
plunderers than hunters. His recently acquired cargo consists of a group of
Indians. Archie has grown fond of the beautiful female, Tiger Lily. With no port
in sight, Archie negotiates for the Indians freedom in exchange for them agreeing
to hunt and provide food for the pirates while they're stuck on the island.
Archibald and his pirates encounter the Lost Boys, a lethal mermaid, as well as
Tic-Toc, the croc, and Peter Pan. In this version of Hook, Peter takes on a darker
side full of malice and evil.
HOOK turns out to be an engaging, five-star story with vivid, interesting
characters. This version gives an enlightening view of how Captain Hook
emerged, as well as an explanation for the animosity between Peter and Hook.
5stars
Rebecca Trust
KR Thompson takes the classic story of Peter Pan and Captain Hook and puts a
unique, creative spin to this well-known story.
In HOOK, Archibald Jameson eagerly leaves his boring print job to head home.
An impending storm causes Archie to alter his usual route as he seeks shelter in a
tavern.
As a young man named Harper stumbles to read a letter, Archibald has mercy and
whispers the information to him. The next thing he knows, he wakes up on board
the Queen Anne's Revenge. He learns the cunning and crafty pirate, Smee,
drugged his ale, and he is now sailing under the command of the most notorious
pirate, Blackbeard.
Instead of trying to flee the situation he's been placed in, Archie finds himself
embracing this new adventure.
Archie proves himself to be a capable, yet honorable pirate with a taste for
tailored clothing. As the adventures continue, circumstances soon find him as
Captain of Blackbeard's acquired ship, the Jolig Roger. Archie rules with fairness
and integrity. Although he's a pirate, he's a likeable guy.
As Archie guides the Jolig Roger out into a storm to avoid capture from the
British Navy, he notices the familiar constellations have disappeared. His pixie
friend, Ms. Bell, helps guide them into an alternate world.
Archie and his crew find themselves in enchanted waters with a magical island.
No matter which course Archie plots, the Jolig Roger manages to return to the
mysterious island, Never Land.
With their food and supplies dwindled to nothing, Archie finally relents and
anchors so they can hunt. He quickly realizes that his pirates make better
plunderers than hunters. His recently acquired cargo consists of a group of
Indians. Archie has grown fond of the beautiful female, Tiger Lily. With no port
in sight, Archie negotiates for the Indians freedom in exchange for them agreeing
to hunt and provide food for the pirates while they're stuck on the island.
Archibald and his pirates encounter the Lost Boys, a lethal mermaid, as well as
Tic-Toc, the croc, and Peter Pan. In this version of Hook, Peter takes on a darker
side full of malice and evil.
HOOK turns out to be an engaging, five-star story with vivid, interesting
characters. This version gives an enlightening view of how Captain Hook
emerged, as well as an explanation for the animosity between Peter and Hook.
5stars
Rebecca Trust
January 30, 2015
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2015/01/b...
When I heard about "Hook" I was intrigued. You see, I am not a big fan of pirates and didnt quite like Captain Hook in the movies so when I heard that this book told the story of how a normal boy later became Captain Hook, I thought maybe reading the book would make me understand and like this character better. So I did just that and I am happy to say that now I like Hook better and understand his actions more.
The cover of "Hook" is beautiful and it made me want to read this story and go feel the dangers and mysteries of pirates and the sea. The blurb is also very crisp and will definitely attract readers.
This is a difficult book to write. So much has already been shown and written about Captain Hook that it must have been really challenging for the author to plan a new story that would interest readers. Kudos to K.R Thompson for accomplishing this successfully. The plot is expertly conceived and very admirably executed.
The characterization is so life like that it felt like I was there and could see these characters in action. Captain Hook's transition from a naive young man who was a dreamer to the famous Captain who was brave and a legend is so beautifully brought to life in this book.
The story flows fluidly and the scenes are vividly narrated. The book kept me engrossed and interested till the very end and left me satisfied with the ending. K.R Thompson's writing style is vivid and colourful. She made me see her story in technicolour and I enjoyed every second of it. It felt like I was there braving the sea, walking among the dangerous pirates, feeling the thrill of adventure and dreaming about things that looked like fantasy.
All in all, Hook is a well written, entertaining book that had me enjoying the time I spent reading it. It had the potential to be even more amazing but still, it was great. 4 out of 5 to it and recommended to all fans of Captain Hook and readers who love adventure, mystery , fairy tales and sea legends. Go relive the thrill of the life of a pirate and have fun!
K.R. Thompson is a talented writer and I am so happy to have met her. I am surely going to checkout her future books.
I received an ARC from the author and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
When I heard about "Hook" I was intrigued. You see, I am not a big fan of pirates and didnt quite like Captain Hook in the movies so when I heard that this book told the story of how a normal boy later became Captain Hook, I thought maybe reading the book would make me understand and like this character better. So I did just that and I am happy to say that now I like Hook better and understand his actions more.
The cover of "Hook" is beautiful and it made me want to read this story and go feel the dangers and mysteries of pirates and the sea. The blurb is also very crisp and will definitely attract readers.
This is a difficult book to write. So much has already been shown and written about Captain Hook that it must have been really challenging for the author to plan a new story that would interest readers. Kudos to K.R Thompson for accomplishing this successfully. The plot is expertly conceived and very admirably executed.
The characterization is so life like that it felt like I was there and could see these characters in action. Captain Hook's transition from a naive young man who was a dreamer to the famous Captain who was brave and a legend is so beautifully brought to life in this book.
The story flows fluidly and the scenes are vividly narrated. The book kept me engrossed and interested till the very end and left me satisfied with the ending. K.R Thompson's writing style is vivid and colourful. She made me see her story in technicolour and I enjoyed every second of it. It felt like I was there braving the sea, walking among the dangerous pirates, feeling the thrill of adventure and dreaming about things that looked like fantasy.
All in all, Hook is a well written, entertaining book that had me enjoying the time I spent reading it. It had the potential to be even more amazing but still, it was great. 4 out of 5 to it and recommended to all fans of Captain Hook and readers who love adventure, mystery , fairy tales and sea legends. Go relive the thrill of the life of a pirate and have fun!
K.R. Thompson is a talented writer and I am so happy to have met her. I am surely going to checkout her future books.
I received an ARC from the author and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
January 30, 2015
When I first saw the cover of ‘Hook’ I was immediately fascinated about this book. I’m a huge pirate, Disney, fairy tales fan so when I read about the upcoming book tour for ‘Hook’ I immediately signed up. I loved the cover and I couldn’t wait to start reading. My expectations where really high because I just love stories about captain Hook and Peter Pan. So as soon as possible, I started reading.
The thing about ‘Hook’ is, that it’s a difficult story to write. The characters in ‘Hook’ are already well known around the world through the Disney movies and there are some things you will be expecting in this book. So I think it’s very brave of K.R. Thompson to write this book. This book is the untold story about the man who became Captain Hook and right from the beginning I was fascinated.
We meet Archie Jameson, a normal guy who finds his life very boring and dreams of big adventures. When he suddenly finds himself on a huge ship surrounded by pirates he knows his life has been changed forever.
The character’s in this book are very enjoyable. Most characters you know or heard of in the other stories of Peter Pan and Captain Hook, but that doesn’t mean you will ‘know’ the characters in this book. No, most times you know the name but the character and the way they are in this book are totally different. For example Tiger Lily. I knew Tiger Lily as the young Indian girl who was kidnapped by Captain Hook and was about to drown in the sea when Peter Pan saved her, in this book that doesn’t happen. In this book, this character has a totally different adventure.
There is a lot happening in this book and I found myself really fascinated by this story. I loved reading about Archie and the way his life changed completely. I loved the way the pirates lived and fought and how they survived different situations on sea. I loved the little pixie Tinker Bell and the way she found Archie. And most of all I loved the way Archie, became Captain Hook.
I really enjoyed this story, it wasn’t as ‘amazing’ as I hoped it would be, but it was still a great read. Like I said before, it’s very difficult to write a story about characters who are known around the world so my expectations where much too high. But this story was not disappointing, it was enjoyable and if you are a fan of Captain Hook you will definitely like this one.
The thing about ‘Hook’ is, that it’s a difficult story to write. The characters in ‘Hook’ are already well known around the world through the Disney movies and there are some things you will be expecting in this book. So I think it’s very brave of K.R. Thompson to write this book. This book is the untold story about the man who became Captain Hook and right from the beginning I was fascinated.
We meet Archie Jameson, a normal guy who finds his life very boring and dreams of big adventures. When he suddenly finds himself on a huge ship surrounded by pirates he knows his life has been changed forever.
The character’s in this book are very enjoyable. Most characters you know or heard of in the other stories of Peter Pan and Captain Hook, but that doesn’t mean you will ‘know’ the characters in this book. No, most times you know the name but the character and the way they are in this book are totally different. For example Tiger Lily. I knew Tiger Lily as the young Indian girl who was kidnapped by Captain Hook and was about to drown in the sea when Peter Pan saved her, in this book that doesn’t happen. In this book, this character has a totally different adventure.
There is a lot happening in this book and I found myself really fascinated by this story. I loved reading about Archie and the way his life changed completely. I loved the way the pirates lived and fought and how they survived different situations on sea. I loved the little pixie Tinker Bell and the way she found Archie. And most of all I loved the way Archie, became Captain Hook.
I really enjoyed this story, it wasn’t as ‘amazing’ as I hoped it would be, but it was still a great read. Like I said before, it’s very difficult to write a story about characters who are known around the world so my expectations where much too high. But this story was not disappointing, it was enjoyable and if you are a fan of Captain Hook you will definitely like this one.
March 28, 2015
There is just something so comforting about reading a re imagined story. You are already familiar with the world, the characters and most of the time, the basic plot. And while all of this is true of HOOK, what really made this work so well, were the changes made to the original lore of the story.
I am no stranger to Hook being the hero and Peter Pan being a callous, manipulative asshole, as I am an avid watcher of Once Upon A Time and they have also twisted the lore of the original story in this way, but I really enjoyed the way Hook was portrayed in this book.
Sure, he decided to become a pirate awfully quickly, he fell in love at the drop of a hat and had his own ship in a heartbeat, but I didn't care one bit, it fit the fast pace of the story, and although I found myself eye rolling at some of the plot conveniences, these were easily overcome by the strength of the writing and I think my love of Hook in general.
And even though I knew exactly where this story was going, I still found myself on the edge of my seat in the final act, and was gasping in shock at some of the major plot points that took me by surprise.
This was well written, easy to read and digest, with characters most will know and love, and for those who don't, this would be an intriguing way to enter the world of Peter Pan.
I look forward to reading more of Hook's adventures in the next installment of this series.
3 Stars.
Thank you to the author for kindly providing a review copy through lovers of paranormal!
I am no stranger to Hook being the hero and Peter Pan being a callous, manipulative asshole, as I am an avid watcher of Once Upon A Time and they have also twisted the lore of the original story in this way, but I really enjoyed the way Hook was portrayed in this book.
Sure, he decided to become a pirate awfully quickly, he fell in love at the drop of a hat and had his own ship in a heartbeat, but I didn't care one bit, it fit the fast pace of the story, and although I found myself eye rolling at some of the plot conveniences, these were easily overcome by the strength of the writing and I think my love of Hook in general.
And even though I knew exactly where this story was going, I still found myself on the edge of my seat in the final act, and was gasping in shock at some of the major plot points that took me by surprise.
This was well written, easy to read and digest, with characters most will know and love, and for those who don't, this would be an intriguing way to enter the world of Peter Pan.
I look forward to reading more of Hook's adventures in the next installment of this series.
3 Stars.
Thank you to the author for kindly providing a review copy through lovers of paranormal!
February 20, 2015
“Archie looked back at the island−a mysterious place inhabited by a strange, flying boy and pixies. While part of him wished to find an island with a port, a greater part wondered what other mysteries lay hidden, waiting to be discovered there.”
If you love fantasy or high seas adventure you’re sure to enjoy this fresh spin on the classic fairy tale by J.M. Barrie. For years you have heard testimony from Peter, the Darlings and the Lost Boys on behalf of the prosecution. Now, at long last, you will hear the case for the defense from the crew of the Jolig Roger and be left to decide anew the faces of good, evil, hero and villain as it pertains to Neverland. Archie Jameson always dreamed of adventure, but never imagined he would soon be setting the course for it. Despite being waylaid in London on the way home from his print shop by the bad form of happenstance and waking up on a pirate ship, he rises to destiny’s challenge and answers it with the good form of integrity, honor, loyalty and friendship. In so doing, Jameson the gentleman quickly rises from fate’s hapless captive to Adventure’s Captain: The man who would be Hook. With this novel author K.R. Thompson has charted an exciting new course to Neverland. Have you a thirst for adventure? Then sign the book and join the crew- you won’t regret it.
If you love fantasy or high seas adventure you’re sure to enjoy this fresh spin on the classic fairy tale by J.M. Barrie. For years you have heard testimony from Peter, the Darlings and the Lost Boys on behalf of the prosecution. Now, at long last, you will hear the case for the defense from the crew of the Jolig Roger and be left to decide anew the faces of good, evil, hero and villain as it pertains to Neverland. Archie Jameson always dreamed of adventure, but never imagined he would soon be setting the course for it. Despite being waylaid in London on the way home from his print shop by the bad form of happenstance and waking up on a pirate ship, he rises to destiny’s challenge and answers it with the good form of integrity, honor, loyalty and friendship. In so doing, Jameson the gentleman quickly rises from fate’s hapless captive to Adventure’s Captain: The man who would be Hook. With this novel author K.R. Thompson has charted an exciting new course to Neverland. Have you a thirst for adventure? Then sign the book and join the crew- you won’t regret it.
March 30, 2015
Loved this book! It's really true when they say all villains become villains somehow. I loved how this story was the beginning of how Captain Hook came about. Archie Jameson is truly a decent guy that happened to take cover in the wrong tavern. With that his life was changed forever. Though when he became captain, he was still a decent guy. He earned the respect of his crew and fell in love with an Indian. I like how this author makes Peter Pan out to be the villain. I don't know if any of you watch the show Once Upon A Time, but there version of Neverland, Peter Pan also wasn't such a good guy and Hook (known as Killian on the show) is a very likable character. This book really had be on Captain Jameson's side the entire time. Peter was not a nice boy. I can't wait to read book two in this series. This is a must read! And don't worry, Captain Hook makes his appearance before the end of the book!
March 26, 2015
A
Brilliant reimagining of the original tale. This book sparkles. K.R. Thompson earns her stars. I highly recommend this one. Pick up a copy today!
Brilliant reimagining of the original tale. This book sparkles. K.R. Thompson earns her stars. I highly recommend this one. Pick up a copy today!
December 1, 2017
This is what I call a great book. Interesting retelling. Makes you hate Peter Pan and side with Captain Hook. Too bad for Tiger Lily. Must read for fans of retellings and or Peter Pan.
January 10, 2015
Author K.R. Thompson, known to me as Kim, has been a rising local literary star since the release of her mystical Keeper Saga, based on her native Bland County’s Wolf Creek Indian Village saw the public light of day three years ago. After two successful installments and a brief prequel, Kim has taken a break from wolves and magic to take on her bravest serial effort as a writer to date. As a result, the local author has produced a masterpiece that is very likely to gain her national attention and beyond as an author.
Hook is the result of a writer’s gamble that has proved successful beyond measure. The bravery is taking on the literary origin of one of fiction’s all-time greatest villains is, on its own, enough to earn my eternal admiration as a fellow writer. However to craft it as well as Kim has done is a whole other matter entirely. “Archie Jameson sat in the dark corners of the print shop, dreaming of adventure,” reads the book’s back cover. “Today, it found him. Caught in a chilly October storm, he ducked into a tavern, hoping to escape the rain. What he found, was a room teeming with pirates. Shanghaied by the most elderly of the lot, Archie found himself serving on a ship captained by the fiercest pirate ever to sail the seven seas--the man known as Blackbeard. Through a series of thrilling twists, Archie finds himself captain of another of Blackbeard's ships, the Jolig Roger. In an attempt to flee danger, his ship becomes lost under stars never before seen. Determined to save both his crew and the woman he loves, Archie will make decisions that will forever seal his fate. Discover the untold story of the man who became Captain Hook.”
The local author’s 260-page take on the classic J.M. Barrie-originated tale is uniquely its own in every way. If you have not read the original Barrie text, as I haven’t, you will be introduced to it well enough in Kim’s book to gain a new respect for the timeless tales of Neverland. Though definitely more mature of a read that the Disney adaptation of which I have a longtime familiarity, I could see Kim’s book played out all too well as a Disney film in my head. The innovative company would deem itself lucky to have such a brilliant work from which to adapt a new film. Having had the good fortune of becoming acquainted with Margaret Kerry, Disney’s original reference model for Tinker Bell and the voice of the redheaded mermaid in the 1953 film, I plan to bring this book to her attention if I am lucky enough to speak with her again at this year’s Mayberry Days. I have every confidence she will be as impressed as me.
The ease with which her story molds into what I know of the original tale is breathtaking, from her knowledge of English vernacular and geography to the immense respect her publication offers its timeless predecessor. As my friend Paul Dellinger said in his review on the back cover, “your loyalties will shift” when you read Kim’s take on how this previously loathed villain came to be. If you think the abbreviated Disney version of the tale told you everything you needed to know about the inhabitants of Neverland, you simply must read Kim’s book. You certainly will never watch Peter Pan the same way again.
Having a nearly nine-month old daughter, I look forward to adding this selection to her bedtime story repertoire when she becomes old enough to appreciate it. However, it is a tremendously adventurous read for anyone who enjoys a good book, regardless of their age. With the dedication of the book bestowed to her toddler son, Michael, I have a strong inclination that children are much the author’s most targeted audience with Hook. Thankfully, too, it won’t be the last in her Neverland series. The first chapter of Nerida, which tells the story of one of the mermaids on the popular fairy tale island, will undoubtedly prove to be every bit as riveting as Hook, judging from the preview. Nerida is slated for release in the fall.
Those who prefer her more locally based writing need not be disappointed with Hook, either. There are plenty of lines that will prove especially amusing to us natives of Southwest Virginia, not to mention some obvious local inspiration throughout the tale. I never thought Neverland and Southwest Virginia could blend together so beautifully, but they have done so in the hands of Kim Thompson.
Hook displays the greatest display of versatility I have seen from any writer in my immediate recollection. It is a book that is certainly not to be overlooked or judged by its cover, though it is one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen. Designer Keri Knutson deserves equal praise for her incredible artwork, which help bring the equally vibrant text its envelopes to life.
Historical romance author Rita Cantrell praised Hook as one of those rare books in which the reader can “savor every word.” Those are also sentiments which I must echo. It was a thrill to read every new line and turn every new page. I know it is way too early in the year to say that this book is the best I have read in 2015, but I think it’s safe to say that any book I read in the next eleven months will find itself hard-pressed to be as enjoyable a read as Hook.
Kim Thompson has outdone herself in every sense of the word with this book. Although I enjoyed her other series, this is already exponentially better. I am looking forward to the next one and strongly recommend Hook to those who have yet to read it. For devoted fans of Kim’s Keeper Saga, you can look for that next adventure, Wynter’s War, this spring. For more information on all of Kim’s wonderful work, visit her website at http://authorkrthompson.wix.com/theke... or give her a like on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thekeepersaga.
Hook is the result of a writer’s gamble that has proved successful beyond measure. The bravery is taking on the literary origin of one of fiction’s all-time greatest villains is, on its own, enough to earn my eternal admiration as a fellow writer. However to craft it as well as Kim has done is a whole other matter entirely. “Archie Jameson sat in the dark corners of the print shop, dreaming of adventure,” reads the book’s back cover. “Today, it found him. Caught in a chilly October storm, he ducked into a tavern, hoping to escape the rain. What he found, was a room teeming with pirates. Shanghaied by the most elderly of the lot, Archie found himself serving on a ship captained by the fiercest pirate ever to sail the seven seas--the man known as Blackbeard. Through a series of thrilling twists, Archie finds himself captain of another of Blackbeard's ships, the Jolig Roger. In an attempt to flee danger, his ship becomes lost under stars never before seen. Determined to save both his crew and the woman he loves, Archie will make decisions that will forever seal his fate. Discover the untold story of the man who became Captain Hook.”
The local author’s 260-page take on the classic J.M. Barrie-originated tale is uniquely its own in every way. If you have not read the original Barrie text, as I haven’t, you will be introduced to it well enough in Kim’s book to gain a new respect for the timeless tales of Neverland. Though definitely more mature of a read that the Disney adaptation of which I have a longtime familiarity, I could see Kim’s book played out all too well as a Disney film in my head. The innovative company would deem itself lucky to have such a brilliant work from which to adapt a new film. Having had the good fortune of becoming acquainted with Margaret Kerry, Disney’s original reference model for Tinker Bell and the voice of the redheaded mermaid in the 1953 film, I plan to bring this book to her attention if I am lucky enough to speak with her again at this year’s Mayberry Days. I have every confidence she will be as impressed as me.
The ease with which her story molds into what I know of the original tale is breathtaking, from her knowledge of English vernacular and geography to the immense respect her publication offers its timeless predecessor. As my friend Paul Dellinger said in his review on the back cover, “your loyalties will shift” when you read Kim’s take on how this previously loathed villain came to be. If you think the abbreviated Disney version of the tale told you everything you needed to know about the inhabitants of Neverland, you simply must read Kim’s book. You certainly will never watch Peter Pan the same way again.
Having a nearly nine-month old daughter, I look forward to adding this selection to her bedtime story repertoire when she becomes old enough to appreciate it. However, it is a tremendously adventurous read for anyone who enjoys a good book, regardless of their age. With the dedication of the book bestowed to her toddler son, Michael, I have a strong inclination that children are much the author’s most targeted audience with Hook. Thankfully, too, it won’t be the last in her Neverland series. The first chapter of Nerida, which tells the story of one of the mermaids on the popular fairy tale island, will undoubtedly prove to be every bit as riveting as Hook, judging from the preview. Nerida is slated for release in the fall.
Those who prefer her more locally based writing need not be disappointed with Hook, either. There are plenty of lines that will prove especially amusing to us natives of Southwest Virginia, not to mention some obvious local inspiration throughout the tale. I never thought Neverland and Southwest Virginia could blend together so beautifully, but they have done so in the hands of Kim Thompson.
Hook displays the greatest display of versatility I have seen from any writer in my immediate recollection. It is a book that is certainly not to be overlooked or judged by its cover, though it is one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen. Designer Keri Knutson deserves equal praise for her incredible artwork, which help bring the equally vibrant text its envelopes to life.
Historical romance author Rita Cantrell praised Hook as one of those rare books in which the reader can “savor every word.” Those are also sentiments which I must echo. It was a thrill to read every new line and turn every new page. I know it is way too early in the year to say that this book is the best I have read in 2015, but I think it’s safe to say that any book I read in the next eleven months will find itself hard-pressed to be as enjoyable a read as Hook.
Kim Thompson has outdone herself in every sense of the word with this book. Although I enjoyed her other series, this is already exponentially better. I am looking forward to the next one and strongly recommend Hook to those who have yet to read it. For devoted fans of Kim’s Keeper Saga, you can look for that next adventure, Wynter’s War, this spring. For more information on all of Kim’s wonderful work, visit her website at http://authorkrthompson.wix.com/theke... or give her a like on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thekeepersaga.
April 7, 2015
***I was given this book in exchange for an honest review, Lovers of Paranormal.***
I have mixed feelings about this book because as with all childhood tales, I like the original, so seeing the other side of the pendulum like Captain Hook's story, always make me uneasy. This rendition was great, I was really interested throughout the whole book and enjoyed Archie as a character.
I didn't like the portrayal of Peter, but that is just my biased opinion. I loved the pirates characters and I loved Tiger Lily (another biased sore subject for me in this book ;)). I loved the iconic ending, it was great to see the set up.
Overall, I enjoyed it. It was different to be sure, but I still enjoyed it.
I have mixed feelings about this book because as with all childhood tales, I like the original, so seeing the other side of the pendulum like Captain Hook's story, always make me uneasy. This rendition was great, I was really interested throughout the whole book and enjoyed Archie as a character.
I didn't like the portrayal of Peter, but that is just my biased opinion. I loved the pirates characters and I loved Tiger Lily (another biased sore subject for me in this book ;)). I loved the iconic ending, it was great to see the set up.
Overall, I enjoyed it. It was different to be sure, but I still enjoyed it.
July 10, 2017
Fun quick read
I got this book on sale and really liked the premise of learning about how other characters in the Peter pan story came to be. Some liberties were taken and i didn't like how some aspects of it was portrayed, but the book was well written and kept me engaged. I may even consider reading the next one in the series. For a couple hour read, it was a good book. Not one that I'll return to, but enjoyable enough.
I got this book on sale and really liked the premise of learning about how other characters in the Peter pan story came to be. Some liberties were taken and i didn't like how some aspects of it was portrayed, but the book was well written and kept me engaged. I may even consider reading the next one in the series. For a couple hour read, it was a good book. Not one that I'll return to, but enjoyable enough.
September 20, 2017
Fairytale like no other
I enjoyed the back story of Captain Hook. I cannot wait to read all the books in this series, and hope she does other back stories! The author was perfect with descriptions, and I never felt she was too wordy.
I enjoyed the back story of Captain Hook. I cannot wait to read all the books in this series, and hope she does other back stories! The author was perfect with descriptions, and I never felt she was too wordy.
May 27, 2020
Peter pan is one of my favorite stories of all time. In the beginning i didn't really like it, it took me a while to really get into the story. But once i did, i really started loving it. It is a fun and interesting way to learn more about hook and his back story.
September 17, 2015
I honestly was SHOCKED by the last 4 chapters! WOW! I never saw it coming. The story was beautifully told and captures the darkness that is behind the tale of Pan. BEST READ BY A LOCAL AUTHOR YET!
November 27, 2023
I think I liked the story of Hook, the second book of the Untold Stories of Neverland series better than the first book, Pan. This one tells a longer, more satisfying story of Archibald Jameson, a printer in London, and how he became the legendary pirate, Captain Hook. Once again Tinker Bell is the driving force behind the arrival of Jameson and his shipmates in Neverland, but we don’t see nearly as much of her in this book as we did in Pan.
Archibald begins as a basically nice man. He runs a print shop he inherited from his parents. It gives him a job, which is good, but he finds it boring. He longs for more adventure in his life. He begins to hear bells occasionally, and before long he finds himself taking refuge from a rainstorm in a tavern frequented by pirates. Before he knows what’s going on, he finds himself shanghaied aboard the ship the Queen Anne’s Revenge – captained by the infamous (real life) pirate, Edward Teach, more popularly known as Blackbeard. It’s not very obvious, but this turn of events seems to have been orchestrated by Tinker Bell, who appears to Archibald occasionally but mostly stays out of sight as many of the other pirates seem to regard her as a source of bad luck.
Most of the first half of the book details Archibald’s education in how to be a sailor and a pirate. With the help of his first friend, Harper, and the ship’s doctor, Smee, Archie quickly goes from being an embarrassed misfit to a useful member of the crew. When the pirates capture a merchant ship by the name of the Jolig Roger (Jolly Roger), Archie joins several of the other pirates as part of a crew to sail that ship. While the Jolig Roger is separated from the Queen Anne’s Revenge, they encounter another merchant ship, this one headed for Spain with a cargo of Indian slaves and capture it. Unfortunately, Blackbeard’s first mate who was put in charge of the Jolig Roger is killed in the encounter after naming Archie captain if anything should happen to him.
Archie befriends the one Indian who can understand him – a woman who acquires the name Tiger Lily.
After another adventure or two, Archie is sailing one night and encounters a sky full of stars he doesn’t recognize. Tinker Bell shows up again and points out the way he should go before disappearing again. Not long after, they find themselves approaching Neverland.
Neverland is nice for a day or two but is not where they want to be. They spend a very long time trying to find their way back to their own world with no success.
The pirates are terrible at hunting. Eventually, to have something to eat, they set the Indians free in exchange for their hunting skills.
Inevitably, they encounter Peter Pan, the Lost Boys, and Tic-Tock the crocodile.
Peter likes to play games. But he gets very upset if the game doesn’t go exactly as he envisioned it. Also, he resents having grown-ups on what he thinks of as his island. He sets up a trap in which to kill Archie’s friend, Harper. This ignites a blood feud. For his next trick, Peter sets up something like a scavenger hunt – with Tiger Lilly as the prize.
The ending is inevitable. But I didn’t like how both Archie – now Captain Hook – and Peter both became so hardened and vicious.
Archibald begins as a basically nice man. He runs a print shop he inherited from his parents. It gives him a job, which is good, but he finds it boring. He longs for more adventure in his life. He begins to hear bells occasionally, and before long he finds himself taking refuge from a rainstorm in a tavern frequented by pirates. Before he knows what’s going on, he finds himself shanghaied aboard the ship the Queen Anne’s Revenge – captained by the infamous (real life) pirate, Edward Teach, more popularly known as Blackbeard. It’s not very obvious, but this turn of events seems to have been orchestrated by Tinker Bell, who appears to Archibald occasionally but mostly stays out of sight as many of the other pirates seem to regard her as a source of bad luck.
Most of the first half of the book details Archibald’s education in how to be a sailor and a pirate. With the help of his first friend, Harper, and the ship’s doctor, Smee, Archie quickly goes from being an embarrassed misfit to a useful member of the crew. When the pirates capture a merchant ship by the name of the Jolig Roger (Jolly Roger), Archie joins several of the other pirates as part of a crew to sail that ship. While the Jolig Roger is separated from the Queen Anne’s Revenge, they encounter another merchant ship, this one headed for Spain with a cargo of Indian slaves and capture it. Unfortunately, Blackbeard’s first mate who was put in charge of the Jolig Roger is killed in the encounter after naming Archie captain if anything should happen to him.
Archie befriends the one Indian who can understand him – a woman who acquires the name Tiger Lily.
After another adventure or two, Archie is sailing one night and encounters a sky full of stars he doesn’t recognize. Tinker Bell shows up again and points out the way he should go before disappearing again. Not long after, they find themselves approaching Neverland.
Neverland is nice for a day or two but is not where they want to be. They spend a very long time trying to find their way back to their own world with no success.
The pirates are terrible at hunting. Eventually, to have something to eat, they set the Indians free in exchange for their hunting skills.
Inevitably, they encounter Peter Pan, the Lost Boys, and Tic-Tock the crocodile.
Peter likes to play games. But he gets very upset if the game doesn’t go exactly as he envisioned it. Also, he resents having grown-ups on what he thinks of as his island. He sets up a trap in which to kill Archie’s friend, Harper. This ignites a blood feud. For his next trick, Peter sets up something like a scavenger hunt – with Tiger Lilly as the prize.
The ending is inevitable. But I didn’t like how both Archie – now Captain Hook – and Peter both became so hardened and vicious.
July 2, 2022
I found this book a pleasant diversion - not excellent but engaging. It was entertaining to consider the backstory to Peter Pan, a story I loved as a child. It’s told as a darker version than Disney’s, but it is relatively tame nonetheless. It’s appropriate (if not intended) for young readers eighth through twelfth grade or any of those who don’t want to grow up. (I received this book for free, and I have not yet read any other books in the series.)
November 24, 2017
Fun and fresh Hook adventure! Loved it!
February 9, 2018
A good book is never long enough.
March 20, 2018
A fantastic twist on a childhood favorite. It was page turning and heartbreaking.
June 18, 2020
Goddammit, what a fun adventure!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews