The publisher kindly sent me a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
In this beautiful, grounded, and darkly magical modern-day reimagining of J. M. Barrie’s classic, to save her daughter’s life one woman must take on the infamous Peter Pan—who is not the innocent adventurer the fairy tales make him out to be …
Life is looking up for Holly Darling, granddaughter of Wendy—yes, that Wendy. She’s running a successful skincare company; her son, Jack, is happy and healthy; and the tragedy of her past is well behind her … until she gets a call that her daughter, Eden, who has been in a coma for nearly a decade, has gone missing from the estate where she’s been long tucked away. And, worst of all, Holly knows who must be responsible: Peter Pan, who is not only very real, but more dangerous than anyone could imagine.
Eden’s disappearance is a disaster for more reasons than one. She has a rare condition that causes her to age rapidly—ironic, considering her father is the boy who will never grow up—which also makes her blood incredibly valuable. It’s a secret that Holly is desperate to protect, especially from Eden’s half-brother, Jack, who knows nothing about his sister or the crucial role she plays in his life. Holly has no one to turn to—her mother is the only other person in the world who knows that Peter is more than a story, but she refuses to accept that he is not the hero she’s always imagined. Desperate, Holly enlists the help of Christopher Cooke, a notorious ex-soldier, in the hopes of rescuing Eden before it’s too late … or she may lose both her children.
Darling Girl brings all the magic of the classic Peter Pan story to the present, while also exploring the dark underpinnings of fairy tales, grief, aging, sacrifice, motherhood, and just how far we will go to protect those we love.
Darling Girl Review
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Disney — the movies, the storytelling, the music. After I heard about this Peter Pan retelling, I knew I would have to try it . I’m so glad I did!
Darling Girl follows Holly Darling, the granddaughter of Wendy. She’s successful and enjoying life while also dealing with her daughter who is in a coma. After she gets a call that her daughter has gone missing, she knows that only one person can be responsible: Peter Pan.
I really enjoyed this dark and twisted retelling of Peter Pan. Holly is an interesting main character. There are moments throughout the book where she is relatable and draws you in. But then there are times where it’s hard to root for her. That being said, she’s the perfect main character for this kind of story.
The storyline of this book is so gripping. It’s not a typical fairytale retelling. Rather, it’s a dark and twisted look into a story that so many love. It leaves the reader asking what would happen if our hero, isn’t actually a hero?
This book grips you from the very first page. It leaves you desperately wanting to turn the page and learn more. While a dark look into the world of Peter Pan isn’t something at the top of my list to read, I came away really liking the way that the story plays out.
Darling Girl is the perfect option if you’re looking for a gripping fantasy with a hint of mystery. Liz Michalski is sure to draw you in with her writing and the intricate story she’s woven throughout.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Favourite Quote
I want to experience life, really live it, before I die.
About the Author
A former reporter and editor, Liz lives with her family in Massachusetts. She loves reading fairytales and sometimes, writing them. Her latest book, DARLING GIRL, will be out in May of 2022 (Dutton).
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