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Tales of Winberg #1
Hooked
She’s free to fly if her past doesn’t catch up with her.
But what if she’s ready to fall for him instead?
Cecily doesn’t want to grow up—not if growing up means marrying. After escaping a life of abandonment and mistreatment, she refuses to put her life in the hands of a man ever again. She’s happily settled into her life as lady’s maid to Princess Marilee, and that’s where she intends to stay. But when the princess’s personal guard, Falstone, starts to show an interest in her, she’s tempted to believe that an attachment might not be a bad thing after all.
His kind heart and playful nature pull her in, but while she would trust him with her life, she can’t seem to trust him with her heart. Not only that, but Falstone himself is hesitant to bring a wife into his precarious world when he’s pledged to give his life for the protection of another. Though they both want to give their budding feelings a chance, that choice is taken out of their hands by the appearance of Captain Huckley, the man she ran from years ago, who insists he has a claim on Cecily and her future.
With Cecily’s past rearing up and Captain Huckley determined to drag her away from all she cherishes, can she find the courage to escape him again and find her way to real love? Or will the captain force her into a life that’s not only miserable, but destined to end too soon?
A story about bravery and vulnerability, this reimagined version of Peter Pan will carry you on an adventure that brings romance to the forefront of a beloved tale.
But what if she’s ready to fall for him instead?
Cecily doesn’t want to grow up—not if growing up means marrying. After escaping a life of abandonment and mistreatment, she refuses to put her life in the hands of a man ever again. She’s happily settled into her life as lady’s maid to Princess Marilee, and that’s where she intends to stay. But when the princess’s personal guard, Falstone, starts to show an interest in her, she’s tempted to believe that an attachment might not be a bad thing after all.
His kind heart and playful nature pull her in, but while she would trust him with her life, she can’t seem to trust him with her heart. Not only that, but Falstone himself is hesitant to bring a wife into his precarious world when he’s pledged to give his life for the protection of another. Though they both want to give their budding feelings a chance, that choice is taken out of their hands by the appearance of Captain Huckley, the man she ran from years ago, who insists he has a claim on Cecily and her future.
With Cecily’s past rearing up and Captain Huckley determined to drag her away from all she cherishes, can she find the courage to escape him again and find her way to real love? Or will the captain force her into a life that’s not only miserable, but destined to end too soon?
A story about bravery and vulnerability, this reimagined version of Peter Pan will carry you on an adventure that brings romance to the forefront of a beloved tale.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2022
80 people are currently reading
884 people want to read
About the author
Annette K. Larsen
23 books534 followersI love words. I always have. In songs, in poems, in books, in movies—words move me. In my younger years, I dabbled in writing as a therapy and an escape, but I never expected it to become more than that. While deep in the depths of mommying several small children, I took seven years to write my first book, Just Ella. During that time, I taught myself how to write a novel through a whole lot of trial and error. Not the most time-efficient method, but it gave me an education I wouldn’t have received from a class or a how-to book. Something about the struggle of writing without a formula or rules worked for me. I wrote for me. I wrote from my heart space, and I think that’s the reason that Just Ella has found room in so many of my readers’ heart spaces.
I write clean romance because I love it. I love the discovery of new love. I love the relationship building that’s done with looks, words, brushing fingers, and tentative kisses. Jane Eyre is the hero of my youth and taught me that being true to yourself and clinging to your convictions will be hard, but it will bring you more genuine happiness than giving up on yourself ever can.
I am an extraordinarily happy wife, and a mother of five kids. I’ve lived in Utah, Arizona, Missouri, and Virginia, but my heart is now firmly ensconced in Idaho where we’ve built a home and a community.
I love chocolate, waterfalls, pretty teacups, the sight and sound of ocean waves, and most especially my husband and my five littles. I love books that leave me with a sigh of contentment, and I aspire to write stories that do the same for my readers.
Find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annetteklar...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoraklarsen
Follow me on twitter: @AnnetteKLarsen
Contact Me: http://www.annetteklarsen.com/contact...
I write clean romance because I love it. I love the discovery of new love. I love the relationship building that’s done with looks, words, brushing fingers, and tentative kisses. Jane Eyre is the hero of my youth and taught me that being true to yourself and clinging to your convictions will be hard, but it will bring you more genuine happiness than giving up on yourself ever can.
I am an extraordinarily happy wife, and a mother of five kids. I’ve lived in Utah, Arizona, Missouri, and Virginia, but my heart is now firmly ensconced in Idaho where we’ve built a home and a community.
I love chocolate, waterfalls, pretty teacups, the sight and sound of ocean waves, and most especially my husband and my five littles. I love books that leave me with a sigh of contentment, and I aspire to write stories that do the same for my readers.
Find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annetteklar...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoraklarsen
Follow me on twitter: @AnnetteKLarsen
Contact Me: http://www.annetteklarsen.com/contact...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 10, 2022
Oh My..... I wish more books were like that one! It's been so long since a book pulled me under it's spell and didn't let me go. I was in the world of Dalthia all day with these amazing characters! Annette wrote one of my most favorite series years ago starting with Just Ella (one of my all time favorite books). In that series is the story of princess Marilee. This is the story of Marilee's maid Cecily:} And her brave, fearless guard Falstone! We go back to the world of Dalthia in a different way:} I have never loved the story of Peter pan like I loved this retelling. It was so well done! Gosh that was such a joy to read:} I got absolutely nothing done today and I don't even care! I am so excited for this series!!! Red Riding hood is next!! (HAppy Dance)
14 and up. A nasty bad guy and some sweet kisses make this book more appropriate for a teen. But as an older person I enjoyed it more:}
14 and up. A nasty bad guy and some sweet kisses make this book more appropriate for a teen. But as an older person I enjoyed it more:}
![Profile Image for Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1766269624i%2F169222098._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 19, 2025
⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️
This is my first Peter Pan retelling and I hope it’s really good! This is my first time reading this author as well! I really liked Cecily! She was a great character! Falstone, (what a strange name), was really good! I enjoyed his character and his humor! He was delightful! Captain Huckley was a monster and I hated him! The children were sweethearts! This book hooked me right from the start and I didn’t want to stop reading! I really liked how there was no magic in this one! This was a very good Peter Pan retelling and I’ll definitely be reading more by Annette K Larsen! I think I need to read more Peter Pan retellings as well! It wasn’t quite a five star, but close since there were a couple parts that I didn’t love. But overall, it was great and I can’t wait to see what happens in the rest of the series!
Quote that I liked:
⚓️ He looked at the children around us. "Who said anything about growing up?" he asked with a grin before returning his lips to my own. "I have every intention of growing young together."
⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️
This is my first Peter Pan retelling and I hope it’s really good! This is my first time reading this author as well! I really liked Cecily! She was a great character! Falstone, (what a strange name), was really good! I enjoyed his character and his humor! He was delightful! Captain Huckley was a monster and I hated him! The children were sweethearts! This book hooked me right from the start and I didn’t want to stop reading! I really liked how there was no magic in this one! This was a very good Peter Pan retelling and I’ll definitely be reading more by Annette K Larsen! I think I need to read more Peter Pan retellings as well! It wasn’t quite a five star, but close since there were a couple parts that I didn’t love. But overall, it was great and I can’t wait to see what happens in the rest of the series!
Quote that I liked:
⚓️ He looked at the children around us. "Who said anything about growing up?" he asked with a grin before returning his lips to my own. "I have every intention of growing young together."
⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️⚓️
February 5, 2025
This cover is peak gorgeousness. 😍😍😍 It’s also one of the best Peter Pan retellings I’ve ever read that actually kept a LOT of the story beats of the original fairytale (I think most of them actually—it’s been a hot minute since I read the OG) while being solely its own story with no magic or magical elements to boot!
While I didn’t connect deeply with any of the characters I did like them all…at least the good guys. I SEETHED, literally breathed fire like a furious dragon, whenever Captain Huckley showed his face or opened his big, fat mouth which was WAAAYYYY too much and just, just, just…!!!!! I wanted to yeet him off a cliff SO BADLY!!!!! Just GAAAHHHH!!!!! *incoherent sheathing and shrieking with much smoke* That man deserves to die is all I’m sayin’. 😤
Rant aside, Cecily and Falstone were much better characters and I liked both of them quite a bit, especially sweet and funny yet protective Falstone, who I was disappointed we didn’t get a POV from as this story is told all from Cecily’s eyes and broken, bruised heart. Loved the author’s take on Cecily never wanting to grow up either—it was so sad yet understandable and I just loved the themes she took from the original and how she made them her own whole retaining their originalness at the same time; it’s just beautiful.
There’s quite a bit of trauma drama regarding Cecily’s past relationships with people, especially men, and how Captain Huckley (the pig!) treats her by basically being very emotionally abusive, so keep that in mind if stuff like that bothers you, though I thought it was all handled in a thoughtful manner that shows the horror but not be too detailed on anything.
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man is emotionally abusive
Language: hell (to describe a situation); wench; hellish
Violence: a man is believed to have murdered his first three wives; in the past a character was physically abused and beaten (not shown or detailed); a man’s hand is cut off (not detailed); fighting with swords (not detailed); a woman is slapped; a knife is held to a woman’s throat; a woman is dangled over a cliff edge; in the past a man was abusive to his wife (never shown or detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: a woman was poisoned to death
Other: a character is “sold” to be a bride; death and grief; a character is basically held prisoner and is tied up at one point; a man plans to kill a woman
While I didn’t connect deeply with any of the characters I did like them all…at least the good guys. I SEETHED, literally breathed fire like a furious dragon, whenever Captain Huckley showed his face or opened his big, fat mouth which was WAAAYYYY too much and just, just, just…!!!!! I wanted to yeet him off a cliff SO BADLY!!!!! Just GAAAHHHH!!!!! *incoherent sheathing and shrieking with much smoke* That man deserves to die is all I’m sayin’. 😤
Rant aside, Cecily and Falstone were much better characters and I liked both of them quite a bit, especially sweet and funny yet protective Falstone, who I was disappointed we didn’t get a POV from as this story is told all from Cecily’s eyes and broken, bruised heart. Loved the author’s take on Cecily never wanting to grow up either—it was so sad yet understandable and I just loved the themes she took from the original and how she made them her own whole retaining their originalness at the same time; it’s just beautiful.
There’s quite a bit of trauma drama regarding Cecily’s past relationships with people, especially men, and how Captain Huckley (the pig!) treats her by basically being very emotionally abusive, so keep that in mind if stuff like that bothers you, though I thought it was all handled in a thoughtful manner that shows the horror but not be too detailed on anything.
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a man is emotionally abusive
Language: hell (to describe a situation); wench; hellish
Violence: a man is believed to have murdered his first three wives; in the past a character was physically abused and beaten (not shown or detailed); a man’s hand is cut off (not detailed); fighting with swords (not detailed); a woman is slapped; a knife is held to a woman’s throat; a woman is dangled over a cliff edge; in the past a man was abusive to his wife (never shown or detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: a woman was poisoned to death
Other: a character is “sold” to be a bride; death and grief; a character is basically held prisoner and is tied up at one point; a man plans to kill a woman
April 5, 2022
This is a wonderful retelling of Peter Pan and I found myself completely "Hooked" by Cecily's story. Cecily hasn't always been a maid to Princess Marilee, years ago she went by the name Wendolyn, but she ran away to escape an arranged marriage to a much older man, changed her name and became Princess Marilee's maid. She's happy with the life she lives in the castle with the princess and her husband with no plans to ever get involved with a man. That is, until she meets Falstone, one of the royal guards at the castle.
I loved watching Cecily and Falstone form a friendship and see it turn to more. Falstone is the best kind of hero--he's devoted to keeping Cecily safe, he has amazing fighting skills but yet he's gentle with the children who live at the castle and Cecily. I had no doubt Falstone would do whatever it took to save Cecily from the evil Captain Huckley.
I loved Princess Marilee's friendship with Cecily and a couple of the other workers at the castle. They'd been together a long time and she considered them friends. I loved Marilee's kind heart and how she treated others. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes of Falstone playing with the children and how they got Cecily to play along too.
This is the first book in Annette K. Larsen's new Tales of Winberg series. I look forward to reading more of her fairytale retellings--Little Red Riding Hood, and Robin Hood are coming soon.
I loved watching Cecily and Falstone form a friendship and see it turn to more. Falstone is the best kind of hero--he's devoted to keeping Cecily safe, he has amazing fighting skills but yet he's gentle with the children who live at the castle and Cecily. I had no doubt Falstone would do whatever it took to save Cecily from the evil Captain Huckley.
I loved Princess Marilee's friendship with Cecily and a couple of the other workers at the castle. They'd been together a long time and she considered them friends. I loved Marilee's kind heart and how she treated others. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes of Falstone playing with the children and how they got Cecily to play along too.
This is the first book in Annette K. Larsen's new Tales of Winberg series. I look forward to reading more of her fairytale retellings--Little Red Riding Hood, and Robin Hood are coming soon.
July 19, 2023
Compulsively readable. I did have trouble completely suspending my disbelief at the villain's level of commitment to his scheme, but I suppose that's just me being a bit indifferent to the Peter Pan shtick. A jolly good adventure in the YA style.
April 12, 2022
This was a fun retelling of Peter Pan. I used to love the old cartoon Peter Pan movie when I was a kid, I only got to see it when I visited my cousins house and so it gave it a special place in my heart. I haven't read any retellings though, but after seeing the cover and reading the synopsis for this one I knew I had to give it a try!
I thought Ms. Larsen did a great job creating a unique spin on this fairytale, while tying in familiar elements of the story. Cecily was a likable heroine. She is kind, strong and brave. After fleeing from an unwanted marriage to the creepy Captain Huckley, she goes into hiding and ends up a lady's maid to Princess Marilee (from Saving Marilee). She is finally at peace with her life and on the verge of a new relationship with guard Porter Falstone, when her past catches up with her.
This was an engaging story, easy to get lost in the pages and kept me curious about how the story would play out. Falstone was a fun leading man, strong and brave - yet young at heart with a playful side which made his interactions with Cecily pretty fun. They have good chemistry and a sweet romance. Huckley was definitely a creepy and relentless villain!
Overall, definitely a fun read and one I would recommend.
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild
I thought Ms. Larsen did a great job creating a unique spin on this fairytale, while tying in familiar elements of the story. Cecily was a likable heroine. She is kind, strong and brave. After fleeing from an unwanted marriage to the creepy Captain Huckley, she goes into hiding and ends up a lady's maid to Princess Marilee (from Saving Marilee). She is finally at peace with her life and on the verge of a new relationship with guard Porter Falstone, when her past catches up with her.
This was an engaging story, easy to get lost in the pages and kept me curious about how the story would play out. Falstone was a fun leading man, strong and brave - yet young at heart with a playful side which made his interactions with Cecily pretty fun. They have good chemistry and a sweet romance. Huckley was definitely a creepy and relentless villain!
Overall, definitely a fun read and one I would recommend.
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: None that I remember
Violence: Mild
February 9, 2023
This is a Peter Pan lovers dream ! 🥰 * sobs* 😭 ✨🧚♀️
Hooked is my favorite book of January 2023 ! The year is off to a great start if that's any sign !
I'm obsessed with Peter Pan in case you didn't know . He's definitely a comfort character . <3
This is wonderfully imaginative retelling that really respects the original .It's magical , full of chivalry ,and has a swoony hero ! Though it is at times dark , or sad , most of the first 1/3 of the book is like a wonderful daydream ! <3 I can't say enough good things about this book. I could gush all day tbh . 5/5 stars ALL THE STARS !!!
5/5 Hopeless Romantic tears
4/5 Sad tears ( due to the sketchy last 30%, I was terrified )
5/5 Happy tears <3 <3
Hooked is my favorite book of January 2023 ! The year is off to a great start if that's any sign !
I'm obsessed with Peter Pan in case you didn't know . He's definitely a comfort character . <3
This is wonderfully imaginative retelling that really respects the original .It's magical , full of chivalry ,and has a swoony hero ! Though it is at times dark , or sad , most of the first 1/3 of the book is like a wonderful daydream ! <3 I can't say enough good things about this book. I could gush all day tbh . 5/5 stars ALL THE STARS !!!
5/5 Hopeless Romantic tears
4/5 Sad tears ( due to the sketchy last 30%, I was terrified )
5/5 Happy tears <3 <3
February 14, 2022
What a wonderful way to spend the day- being enveloped in Neverland! I LOVED this beautiful story. Annette Larsen is one of my favorite authors and I have looked forward to the release of this book with great anticipation and a little fear that it wouldn't live up to her other amazing books. I didn't need to worry as she outdid herself with Hooked. It has everything I crave in a book- characters you love to love and ones you love to hate, suspense, lively humor and dialogue, and deep-felt romance. Thank you, Ms. Larsen for reminding me why I love to read!!
March 20, 2022
I'm not usually a big fan of "Peter Pan" stories, but when I read the description for Hooked, I was, well, "hooked." This is the first book in a new series called Tales of Winberg by Annette K. Larsen. Though I was not previously familiar with her work, this story made me pretty curious about her other princess adventure tales. The series takes place in the same world as her previous series, Books of Dalthia, which also contains a number of fairy tale retellings. This book is an excellent princess story that contains everything a great fairy tale should, but I would not necessarily recommend it to fans of Peter Pan in particular, as it takes great liberties with its homage. Still, I have to give the author props for coming up with such a creative reimagining.
Wendolyn spent most of her teenage years in hiding for fear that she would be discovered by the wicked captain her family tried to force her into marriage with. In order to hide her identity, she went by the nickname Cecily and took up work as a maid. She found her true home serving a kind-hearted princess named Marilee in a lovely castle and planned to remain there until the fateful day that Captain Huckley discovered her hiding place. I found it interesting how many princess-like elements this story contained despite the main character not being a princess herself. Like many princesses that came before her, Wendolyn is a noblewoman who feels confined by her high status and desires the freedom to choose her own path. The majority of the book is about her trying to escape from her arranged marriage, which is a common trope in princess tales.
Like all great fairy tales, Hooked is a love story at its core. During her time serving Princess Marilee, Wendolyn grows attached to Falstone, a castle guard who can't seem to keep his eyes off her. Falstone is an excellent hero who is skillfully trained in the art of fighting and is also very in tune with the emotions of those around him. He is a fine candidate to protect Wendolyn from Captain Huckley, which he does with composure and enthusiasm after she opens up to him about her plight. An equally excellent ally to Wendolyn is Princess Marilee, who sees her as more of a friend than a servant. Marilee is patient and understanding and is always there for Wendolyn when she needs her. An ongoing theme in this book is that families don't always come from blood or even from growing up together. Trust, love, and understanding are the true building blocks forming life-long bonds.
In the author's note at the end of Hooked, it was revealed that this book was originally planned as a "Sleeping Beauty" retelling before it switched to "Peter Pan." This answered a few questions I had since it never quite felt like a "Peter Pan" retelling. The aspect of Wendolyn not wanting to grow up because she didn't want to marry a criminal felt like a stretch, and most of the references to fairies and mermaids came from the stories she told the children who were living at the castle. The setting of Dalthia itself did not contain any magic or at least none that was revealed in this particular book. If I were to choose a fairy tale that shares the most similarities with this story, it would be "Bluebeard." Nevertheless, this book is a charming romance and a pleasant read.
Hooked is a wonderful introduction to Annette K. Larsen's work that made me curious about Princess Marilee and the other leading ladies in the prequel series, Books of Dalthia. I recommend her books to anyone who enjoys romance and adventure with just a touch of fairy tale inspiration. Wendolyn is a strong heroine who is easy to relate to and root for. The skillful narrative descriptions made me feel like I was with her every step of the way, sharing in her joy, despair, and everything in between. This was an excellent read that contained just the right amount of romance and adventure.
Wendolyn spent most of her teenage years in hiding for fear that she would be discovered by the wicked captain her family tried to force her into marriage with. In order to hide her identity, she went by the nickname Cecily and took up work as a maid. She found her true home serving a kind-hearted princess named Marilee in a lovely castle and planned to remain there until the fateful day that Captain Huckley discovered her hiding place. I found it interesting how many princess-like elements this story contained despite the main character not being a princess herself. Like many princesses that came before her, Wendolyn is a noblewoman who feels confined by her high status and desires the freedom to choose her own path. The majority of the book is about her trying to escape from her arranged marriage, which is a common trope in princess tales.
Like all great fairy tales, Hooked is a love story at its core. During her time serving Princess Marilee, Wendolyn grows attached to Falstone, a castle guard who can't seem to keep his eyes off her. Falstone is an excellent hero who is skillfully trained in the art of fighting and is also very in tune with the emotions of those around him. He is a fine candidate to protect Wendolyn from Captain Huckley, which he does with composure and enthusiasm after she opens up to him about her plight. An equally excellent ally to Wendolyn is Princess Marilee, who sees her as more of a friend than a servant. Marilee is patient and understanding and is always there for Wendolyn when she needs her. An ongoing theme in this book is that families don't always come from blood or even from growing up together. Trust, love, and understanding are the true building blocks forming life-long bonds.
In the author's note at the end of Hooked, it was revealed that this book was originally planned as a "Sleeping Beauty" retelling before it switched to "Peter Pan." This answered a few questions I had since it never quite felt like a "Peter Pan" retelling. The aspect of Wendolyn not wanting to grow up because she didn't want to marry a criminal felt like a stretch, and most of the references to fairies and mermaids came from the stories she told the children who were living at the castle. The setting of Dalthia itself did not contain any magic or at least none that was revealed in this particular book. If I were to choose a fairy tale that shares the most similarities with this story, it would be "Bluebeard." Nevertheless, this book is a charming romance and a pleasant read.
Hooked is a wonderful introduction to Annette K. Larsen's work that made me curious about Princess Marilee and the other leading ladies in the prequel series, Books of Dalthia. I recommend her books to anyone who enjoys romance and adventure with just a touch of fairy tale inspiration. Wendolyn is a strong heroine who is easy to relate to and root for. The skillful narrative descriptions made me feel like I was with her every step of the way, sharing in her joy, despair, and everything in between. This was an excellent read that contained just the right amount of romance and adventure.
October 13, 2024
This is a beautiful and captivating story. It’s more focused on relationship building than action, and has the sweetest interactions and dialogue. It’s ultimately about a broken and traumatized girl being tenderly knit back together through the patient efforts of a ridiculously perfect man. Falstone is one of those characters you can’t help but adore, while at the same time acknowledging that such creatures do not exist in real life. Ah, fairy tales ☺️
I’m not too familiar with the Peter Pan story, but feel like the integration of it (the odd obsession with not growing up) might have been a little forced. I loved the book, though, and would definitely recommend it.
Content:
I will warn that the villain, Captain Huckley, is a very bad man. There is physical and emotional abuse and distressing scenes that may be a trigger to some.
There’s no foul language or sex. The romance is clean. There is no magic. There is no mention of faith or God.
I’m not too familiar with the Peter Pan story, but feel like the integration of it (the odd obsession with not growing up) might have been a little forced. I loved the book, though, and would definitely recommend it.
Content:
I will warn that the villain, Captain Huckley, is a very bad man. There is physical and emotional abuse and distressing scenes that may be a trigger to some.
There’s no foul language or sex. The romance is clean. There is no magic. There is no mention of faith or God.
February 17, 2022
The Books of Dalthia are some of my absolute favorite books. I have reread them more times than any other books. So when I heard Annette K Larsen was revisiting the world of Dalthia, I was SO excited. And Hooked did not disappoint--I literally read it in one sitting. Well, sitting and lying down as I finished it in bed at 1:30am.
I read a lot of romance (both sweet and spicy) and there are tropes I love and tropes/cliches that drive me crazy and tropes that can be fabulous if done well and terrible if not. The main trope we start with in Hooked is the "I don't want to get married" (which of course worked beautifully with the Peter Pan retelling theme) and it's done really well here. Cecily's reasons feel believable and the rethinking of those reasons (not really a spoiler because HI we know we're reading a romance) make sense.
Falstone was dreamy and fabulous, but also felt real. He got annoyed and got his feelings hurt just like a normal human would (unlike some of the leading men in romances who just get their teeth bashed in by the women and they keep coming back with a grin in a way that just doesn't feel like a healthy relationship). Somehow Annette Larsen just keeps writing swoon-worthy leading men who are all different and yet equally as swoony.
I have read a lot of fairy tale retellings and they can be tricky. It's easy for the fairy tale to take over the plot the author was trying to write and make it feel convoluted or forced. That's not the case with Hooked. The fairy tale guided the overall story (and led to some delightful Easter eggs) but the fairy tale served the overall plot, not the other way around.
Also, I just loved the way the relationship between Cecily and Falstone developed. And I think it's one of the things I love best about sweet romances--instead of everyone just hopping into bed, there's longing glances and push and pull and heart fluttery moments and Annette is a MASTER at writing those interactions. As I was reading I was reminded why I love The Books of Dalthia so much--it's those little interactions that just make you swoon.
Also seeing Marilee again, healed and living her best life is just *swoony sigh*
Overall delightful read and I can't wait to read the next ones in the series!
I read a lot of romance (both sweet and spicy) and there are tropes I love and tropes/cliches that drive me crazy and tropes that can be fabulous if done well and terrible if not. The main trope we start with in Hooked is the "I don't want to get married" (which of course worked beautifully with the Peter Pan retelling theme) and it's done really well here. Cecily's reasons feel believable and the rethinking of those reasons (not really a spoiler because HI we know we're reading a romance) make sense.
Falstone was dreamy and fabulous, but also felt real. He got annoyed and got his feelings hurt just like a normal human would (unlike some of the leading men in romances who just get their teeth bashed in by the women and they keep coming back with a grin in a way that just doesn't feel like a healthy relationship). Somehow Annette Larsen just keeps writing swoon-worthy leading men who are all different and yet equally as swoony.
I have read a lot of fairy tale retellings and they can be tricky. It's easy for the fairy tale to take over the plot the author was trying to write and make it feel convoluted or forced. That's not the case with Hooked. The fairy tale guided the overall story (and led to some delightful Easter eggs) but the fairy tale served the overall plot, not the other way around.
Also, I just loved the way the relationship between Cecily and Falstone developed. And I think it's one of the things I love best about sweet romances--instead of everyone just hopping into bed, there's longing glances and push and pull and heart fluttery moments and Annette is a MASTER at writing those interactions. As I was reading I was reminded why I love The Books of Dalthia so much--it's those little interactions that just make you swoon.
Also seeing Marilee again, healed and living her best life is just *swoony sigh*
Overall delightful read and I can't wait to read the next ones in the series!
April 12, 2022
This was my first read by Annette K. Larsen, and I was very impressed. Hooked was a perfect read for me. The hero was sweet, charming, strong, and respected the heroine's boundaries. Their romance and friendship was so sweet and gentle, I couldn't put the book down once I started. The only part that I did not like was how long the conflict with the villain lasted near the end. It was a little too emotionally heavy for me at times, and I would have liked it to have been shorter. It felt like it was dragged out a bit too long when we already knew how horrible the villain was. But I absolutely loved the rest of this book, and the subtle Peter Pan re-telling was very well done.
May 13, 2023
I really loved this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! It was nice to see the other characters again! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of Peter Pan! I will be reading the next book in this really wonderful series! I really love all of Annette Larsen's books!
March 22, 2022
WONDERFUL!!!
March 28, 2022
Good read. The bad guy however was too bad. He made my skin crawl. I ended up skimming the parts he was in. I did however really enjoy the main couple. So good!!!
July 15, 2025
I love fairy tale retellings so of course I had to start this series. You would think id get bored of them, but no. They are so much fun and every author tells it differently. I love the take on Peter pan in this story. Its not so much magic and not growing up. But its about fighting evil and finding your own way. I love Cecily. I love how she chose her own path. She gave up everything but gained so much more. I admire her for that. Falstone is adorable and perfect for Cecily. I love the support they both have from their employers. It was more than a story of love and romance. It was a story of friendship, loyalty, and true connection. Overcoming such hardships and forgiving a perceived wrong. I love that there wasnt any spice in this. Just sweet moments and friendship.
July 14, 2023
Cecily ran from a forced marriage when she was 16. Now 9 years later her past is about to find her, and endanger her very life.
Similar to a historical romance/suspense in general feel, but since it is set in a fictional world the author can make her own rules regarding law and customs. This makes it easier to suspend disbelief and just enjoy the story.
Clean romance, non-magic fantasy that explores the themes of Peter Pan.
Possible Spoiler:
CW: Cecily has been the victim of physical abuse, and is in danger of being the victim of sexual assault if forced into marriage. This doesn’t happen, but the threat is real.
Similar to a historical romance/suspense in general feel, but since it is set in a fictional world the author can make her own rules regarding law and customs. This makes it easier to suspend disbelief and just enjoy the story.
Clean romance, non-magic fantasy that explores the themes of Peter Pan.
Possible Spoiler:
CW: Cecily has been the victim of physical abuse, and is in danger of being the victim of sexual assault if forced into marriage. This doesn’t happen, but the threat is real.
May 8, 2025
Forced marriage and heros
Cecily has built a life as a lady's maid to a princess, safe and happy in her life. Until her old life appears in the form of her jilted betrothed, the man she had run from. He insists their marriage contract is valid and demands she fulfill her end. With no other choice, she goes with him. But he will not break her and she will escape. She wont be another dead wife on his mantle. And the family she has built wont let her go that easily, especially Falstone, the soldier who has vowed to never grow up.
A gripping tale. Loved it!
Cecily has built a life as a lady's maid to a princess, safe and happy in her life. Until her old life appears in the form of her jilted betrothed, the man she had run from. He insists their marriage contract is valid and demands she fulfill her end. With no other choice, she goes with him. But he will not break her and she will escape. She wont be another dead wife on his mantle. And the family she has built wont let her go that easily, especially Falstone, the soldier who has vowed to never grow up.
A gripping tale. Loved it!
December 20, 2022
A 4.5⭐️ read. Everything in this book was enchanting and I loved the characters. The only thing keeping it from 5 stars is that I wish there was a bit more actual magic. Definitely recommend.
December 6, 2025
Hooked is such a delightful and unexpected twist on Peter Pan! I loved the way the romance blossomed and grew, and I'm a sucker for heroic rescues under impossible circumstances! I started a little out of order, but I'm excited to finish the other Tales of Winberg books that I haven't read yet!
March 15, 2022
Best Peter Pan fairytale retelling I’ve read!
This was the best retelling I’ve read of Peter Pan! The author did such a great job of pulling you into the story, with enough parallels and hints to Never land, Captain Hook, Peter (Porter) Pan, and flying away that you can’t help but love the story of Peter Pan all over again.
When I started this I had no idea it branched off of the author’s Books of Dalthia series, specifically “Saving Marilee”. It’s on of my favorites in her series, and so many characters are continued on from that story into this one. This book would still work as a standalone story, but so much was better understood in the context of having already read Saving Marilee.
Cecily is such a likable protagonist, one who has been hurt by those close to her, yet she has carved out a life for herself, surrounded by a unique but lovable group. She loves to tell stories, which is where Falstone starts to come in. He was such a surprise! He seems so serious all the time, which made his playful nature all the more endearing when he brought it out.
There were so many swoony moments, as well as a dark and formidable villain. I really enjoyed this book, and can’t wait to see what the author comes out with next!
This was the best retelling I’ve read of Peter Pan! The author did such a great job of pulling you into the story, with enough parallels and hints to Never land, Captain Hook, Peter (Porter) Pan, and flying away that you can’t help but love the story of Peter Pan all over again.
When I started this I had no idea it branched off of the author’s Books of Dalthia series, specifically “Saving Marilee”. It’s on of my favorites in her series, and so many characters are continued on from that story into this one. This book would still work as a standalone story, but so much was better understood in the context of having already read Saving Marilee.
Cecily is such a likable protagonist, one who has been hurt by those close to her, yet she has carved out a life for herself, surrounded by a unique but lovable group. She loves to tell stories, which is where Falstone starts to come in. He was such a surprise! He seems so serious all the time, which made his playful nature all the more endearing when he brought it out.
There were so many swoony moments, as well as a dark and formidable villain. I really enjoyed this book, and can’t wait to see what the author comes out with next!
March 9, 2022
Loved it!
I really enjoyed diving back into the land of Dalthia after all these years, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Princess Marilee was just as sweet as in her own book, Saving Marilee, but the real star--as it should be--was Cecily. Knowing all the hardships she'd gone through over the years made her happily ever after that much sweeter. I was rooting for her and Falstone from the beginning, truly invested in how their story would work out. I was happy for her when she began letting her walls down just a bit for Falstone, sad when it seemed all hope was lost. (I seriously almost cried when she got on that boat.) I loved that she didn't wait around to be saved. I'm not saying a damsel in distress is a bad thing, but with Cecily's ferociousness in not being caged time and again, it would have felt wrong. Oh, I loved it. I loved the characters, I loved the plot, but most of all, I Loved those sweet and swoony kisses! *sigh* Annette write just enough to leave you completely satisfied. Kudos to her on another book well done!
I really enjoyed diving back into the land of Dalthia after all these years, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Princess Marilee was just as sweet as in her own book, Saving Marilee, but the real star--as it should be--was Cecily. Knowing all the hardships she'd gone through over the years made her happily ever after that much sweeter. I was rooting for her and Falstone from the beginning, truly invested in how their story would work out. I was happy for her when she began letting her walls down just a bit for Falstone, sad when it seemed all hope was lost. (I seriously almost cried when she got on that boat.) I loved that she didn't wait around to be saved. I'm not saying a damsel in distress is a bad thing, but with Cecily's ferociousness in not being caged time and again, it would have felt wrong. Oh, I loved it. I loved the characters, I loved the plot, but most of all, I Loved those sweet and swoony kisses! *sigh* Annette write just enough to leave you completely satisfied. Kudos to her on another book well done!
May 5, 2022
loved this story!
It was hard for me to start this book because it was some time since I'd read the Dalthia books. I loved that world and the people in it, but my memory was confused.
However, once I started, I was drawn in to the characters, their relationships, and especially the stories they told. Cecily, Princess Marilee, and Falstone drew me into their imaginary world and their imaginings. This was a fabulous take on Peter Pan and the Lost Boys and Neverland. Highly recommend. Also, I don't think you need to have read Marilee's book, but it added to my enjoyment.
It was hard for me to start this book because it was some time since I'd read the Dalthia books. I loved that world and the people in it, but my memory was confused.
However, once I started, I was drawn in to the characters, their relationships, and especially the stories they told. Cecily, Princess Marilee, and Falstone drew me into their imaginary world and their imaginings. This was a fabulous take on Peter Pan and the Lost Boys and Neverland. Highly recommend. Also, I don't think you need to have read Marilee's book, but it added to my enjoyment.
June 1, 2022
I loved this reimagined fairy tale. Cicily was a strong female lead and I loved her determination. I had a hard time putting this book down. The romance was well paced, the suspense just suspenseful enough, and the struggles of the characters were not overdone.
PG for some peril and a violent scene or two
PG for some peril and a violent scene or two
June 1, 2023
An amazing book
I recommend this book to anyone who loves romances I love this book so much it made me feel every emotion that you can feel and I love that it so good that I could feel that I love this book so much is now my favorite book
I recommend this book to anyone who loves romances I love this book so much it made me feel every emotion that you can feel and I love that it so good that I could feel that I love this book so much is now my favorite book
March 12, 2022
Absolutely loved it. A fun retelling of Peter Pan. Well worth the read.
June 6, 2022
How do you feel about retellings or reimagined stories? Do you enjoy reading them?
Hooked by Annette K. Larsen is a unique retelling of the story of Peter Pan. I love how the author switched up the story completely but kept the main characters of Peter, Wendy, and Captain Hook. I don’t think many people think of Peter Pan and think romance, but the author did such an outstanding job of retelling this story as a romance that I had a hard time putting it down.
I loved finding all the little nods to the original story like “Wendy” telling stories, the “lost boys,” the desire not to grow up, “Peter” teaching the “lost boys” how to fight, swimming in the “mermaid” pond, the “fairy realm,” “Peter” taking “Wendy” on a nighttime adventure, and “Peter” saving “Wendy” from “Captain Hook.” I also found a little nod to the animated movie in a thimble that “Peter” takes from “Wendy.”
Wendy, or Cecily as she is called in the story, is such a strong heroine. I became invested in her story from the very beginning. She has had a rough life, but she is able to rise above it and find happiness. I loved watching her interact with Princess Marilee and Emeline.
I must admit that my favorite parts of the book are the sections with Cecily and Falstone (Cecily’s Peter Pan). Can Falstone get any more dreamy? I’m not sure it is possible. Who would have thought that Peter Pan would make a good romantic hero? Every interaction between them is golden. The scene when Cecily and Falstone go on a midnight swim in the pond is so swoony. I love their banter and how their relationship develops. They are so good together.
This retelling is brilliant! I am in awe of Annette’s ability to create a story that is both new and a tribute to the original. This book is definitely going on my list of books to reread.
Hooked is the first in the Tales of Winberg series. It can be read as a standalone book.
Hooked by Annette K. Larsen is a unique retelling of the story of Peter Pan. I love how the author switched up the story completely but kept the main characters of Peter, Wendy, and Captain Hook. I don’t think many people think of Peter Pan and think romance, but the author did such an outstanding job of retelling this story as a romance that I had a hard time putting it down.
I loved finding all the little nods to the original story like “Wendy” telling stories, the “lost boys,” the desire not to grow up, “Peter” teaching the “lost boys” how to fight, swimming in the “mermaid” pond, the “fairy realm,” “Peter” taking “Wendy” on a nighttime adventure, and “Peter” saving “Wendy” from “Captain Hook.” I also found a little nod to the animated movie in a thimble that “Peter” takes from “Wendy.”
Wendy, or Cecily as she is called in the story, is such a strong heroine. I became invested in her story from the very beginning. She has had a rough life, but she is able to rise above it and find happiness. I loved watching her interact with Princess Marilee and Emeline.
I must admit that my favorite parts of the book are the sections with Cecily and Falstone (Cecily’s Peter Pan). Can Falstone get any more dreamy? I’m not sure it is possible. Who would have thought that Peter Pan would make a good romantic hero? Every interaction between them is golden. The scene when Cecily and Falstone go on a midnight swim in the pond is so swoony. I love their banter and how their relationship develops. They are so good together.
This retelling is brilliant! I am in awe of Annette’s ability to create a story that is both new and a tribute to the original. This book is definitely going on my list of books to reread.
Hooked is the first in the Tales of Winberg series. It can be read as a standalone book.
February 22, 2025
I feel bad giving this book a two star rating because it's my first book by the author and the series was recommended by a friend. However, I had to force myself to finish. Knowing that Hooked was supposed to be a Peter Pan retelling, I decided to read Peter Pan first. After finishing Peter Pan, I immediately started reading Hooked and was really confused. The back cover said that it's a retelling of Peter Pan, but I didn't really feel it. Peter Pan himself was a narcissistic child who couldn't be bothered about anyone else. There was zero character growth through the entire novel. Hooked, however, showed some character growth in both Cecily (the equivalent of Wendy) and Falstone (Peter Pan).
The story arcs in Peter Pan and Hooked are nothing alike. Peter Pan is a collection of adventures whereas Hooked is a romance story with a horrible villain.
My rating is partly due to misplaced expectations due to the cover blurb and partly due to frustration with all the characters. Cecily kept saying she didn't want to grow up but she was growing up. She just didn't trust men (I don't view trust issues due to trauma as the same thing as an outright refusal to grow up). Falstone also said he wasn't growing up but he was already a responsible adult with firm moral beliefs (the polar opposite of Peter Pan). Maybe I would have enjoyed the novel more if it hadn't been marketed as a Peter Pan retelling. I kept noticing differences between the two novels and I hated Peter Pan. So I went into Hooked with a bad impression.
The story arcs in Peter Pan and Hooked are nothing alike. Peter Pan is a collection of adventures whereas Hooked is a romance story with a horrible villain.
My rating is partly due to misplaced expectations due to the cover blurb and partly due to frustration with all the characters. Cecily kept saying she didn't want to grow up but she was growing up. She just didn't trust men (I don't view trust issues due to trauma as the same thing as an outright refusal to grow up). Falstone also said he wasn't growing up but he was already a responsible adult with firm moral beliefs (the polar opposite of Peter Pan). Maybe I would have enjoyed the novel more if it hadn't been marketed as a Peter Pan retelling. I kept noticing differences between the two novels and I hated Peter Pan. So I went into Hooked with a bad impression.
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