Review of Never (Never, #1) by Jessa Hastings
When I first stumbled upon Never, the latest creation by Jessa Hastings, I felt an inexplicable pull. Perhaps it was the promise of a new take on the beloved realm of Neverland, or perhaps it was Hastings’ signature ability to weave enchantment into her narratives. Either way, my curiosity was piqued, and I found myself flipping through the pages with a sense of wonder and anticipation.
Heartfelt Exploration of Characters and Themes
At the heart of Never lies Daphne, a character I found myself deeply connected to. Critics may label her as naive, but I see her as a product of her upbringing—the Darling family lineage, which carries the weight of being swept away by Peter Pan. Daphne’s journey is a compelling exploration of nature vs. nurture, and her sense of destiny informs her decisions. Raised among grandmothers enchanted by the folklore of Neverland, her initial reverence for Peter makes perfect sense. The way Hastings captures the nuances of Daphne’s character invites empathy rather than dismissal. We’ve all grappled with facets of ourselves that don’t meet societal expectations; Daphne embodies that beautifully, showcasing a blend of cleverness and vulnerability.
Peter Pan himself is an enigma in this narrative, skillfully penned to retain the charm and unsettling qualities of Barrie’s original character. Hastings deftly navigates Peter’s arrogance and selfishness, crafting a portrait that is at once captivating and disquieting. I found myself alternating between moments of admiration and exasperation, perfectly articulating the complexity of relationships. This tumultuous dynamic adds depth to the romantic elements, moving it beyond mere idealization and into the realm of the raw and real.
A Magical Narrative Style
The writing style Hastings employs is genuinely immersive. The pacing aligns beautifully with the chaotic nature of Daphne’s arrival in Neverland, mirroring her internal transformations. I vividly imagined the colorful world of Never as I followed Daphne, thanks to Hastings’ lush descriptions that bring the island to life. The inclusion of Daisy Haites’ footnotes adds an unexpected dash of levity, interjecting personal thoughts and humor that tether us more closely to the narrative.
One of my favorite moments echoed upon reading, “We are products of the folk who raise us.” It’s a line that resonates deeply, capturing the essence of how our past shapes our choices. Hastings manages to seamlessly blend profound wisdom within the fabric of her fantasy, allowing readers to engage with the story on multiple levels.
Conclusion: An Invitation to Explore
Never is not just a book; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last page is turned. If you adore rich fantasy blended with romance, or if you’re captivated by flawed characters navigating complex relationships, this story is for you. Jessa Hastings has crafted a tale that encourages reflection while delivering the enchanting escape we all crave.
As I closed the book, I felt a shift within myself—Never transformed my perspective on love, growth, and the stories we tell ourselves. It beckons you to unlock your window and take a flight of imagination, inviting all who dare to get lost in its wonders. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.
