Book: The Never Heirs (The Lost Pixies of Neverhaven) by G.M. Fairy
Reviewed by Booksbystarlightandshadows
Rating: 4/5
I have a real soft spot for retellings and although this has lots of nods to the source material, it is very much its own thing. Belle was a great FMC and I liked the calling out of "not like other girls" right at the start. I thought the concept of the Darling was clever too and how it played into the larger plot. The world building was intriguing and I wanted more of it; particularly the events which led up to Belle ending up on earth. Lord Pan was an interesting villain but he's off page for a lot of the book - it definitely felt like he had some more story to tell. Instead the plot focus is largely on how to get Belle's Darling off.
I liked the connection between Rourke and Belle instantly; it took me longer with Peter and his relationship with Belle felt a lot more sudden in comparison although King of the Bunnies totally won me over. The tension wasn't quite there for me with Peter and Rourke though as it felt like they didn't share a lot of scenes together. I'd loved to have seen a bit more development between them on page as I did like the hints at their dynamic.
Great if you are looking for a twist on a retelling; I'm interested to see where book two goes.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read