A Dive into Darkness: My Review of The First of Never: A Dark Neverland Fairytale Romance
As a lover of fairy tales twisted into something darker, I was immediately captivated by the premise of The First of Never by C.M. Kars, a book that blends familiar elements of Neverland with a fresh, twisted narrative. With its promise of suspense, court intrigue, and sizzling romance, I felt drawn into a world where danger and desire intertwine, and I couldn’t resist the allure of discovering its depths.
At the heart of this tale is Princess Tigerlily, or as she now refers to herself, Aurelia—a young woman fleeing her responsibilities and the deadly politics of her realm. Kars crafts an exciting backdrop where the fairies have retreated, leaving behind a kingdom embroiled in chaos and betrayal. The world-building is rich and vibrant, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a Neverland fraught with peril. I found myself constantly turning the pages, eager to unveil what would happen next amid the deceit and treachery of characters like the psychotic queenpin, La Crocodíl, and the cunning pirate leader, Ivo “Hook” Emerald.
The relationship between Aurelia and her fated mate, Calix—an assassin hired to kill her—adds a tantalizing layer of complexity to this fast-paced narrative. Their dynamic oscillates between fiery tension and moments of deep vulnerability, embodying the classic enemies-to-lovers trope expertly. Kars gives us banter draped in danger, making each interaction between the two crackle with intensity. I found myself rooting for them, even as they threatened to tear each other apart. It’s a potent reminder of how love can bloom amidst turmoil—a theme that resonates deeply throughout the book.
Kars’ writing style is lyrical yet straightforward, emphasizing emotions and high stakes in accessible prose. The pacing is tight, with twists that kept me on my toes and revelations that made my heart race. I particularly appreciated the moments of dark humor peppered throughout, which provided relief from the otherwise tense atmosphere.
A significant highlight for me was the exploration of beauty as a weapon and emotion as a vulnerability, a central theme that echoes through the narrative. Kars seamlessly intertwines these elements, compelling readers to consider the nature of power and its consequences. A memorable quote that lingered with me articulates this succinctly: “In a world draped in darkness, even the faintest flicker of light can cast the most haunting shadows.” It perfectly encapsulates the desperation and allure of this chilling Neverland.
The First of Never is not for the faint of heart; the book grapples with themes of trauma and survival in a way that is both raw and honest. Those who appreciate dark romance, intricate political scheming, and moral ambiguity will find a treasure trove in this story. However, readers should be mindful of its mature themes, including implied violence and emotional turmoil.
In conclusion, this engaging fairy tale fantasy has left me pondering the complexities of love and betrayal long after I turned the last page. Fans of dark romances and fairy tales twisted by intrigue will find The First of Never to be a captivating read. I wholeheartedly recommend diving into this tale if you’re ready to embrace the shadows of Neverland—it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
You can find The First of Never: A Dark Neverland Fairytale Romance here >>