Never Ever After: A Journey Through Shadows and Dreams
Sue Lynn Tan has an extraordinary ability to weave magic with her words, and Never Ever After (Never Ever After, #1) is no exception. When I heard about this darker retelling of Cinderella, I knew I had to dive in. After all, who wouldn’t be intrigued by a story that promises to challenge the quintessential happily-ever-after? The anticipation was palpable as I settled in with my ARC, courtesy of Hodderscape and NetGalley, and let myself be whisked away to the enchanting world of Nine Hills.
From the very first page, Tan’s skillful storytelling captivated me. Set against the mesmerizing backdrop of a Chinese historical fantasy, her writing felt like a vibrant canvas, bursting with colors that beautifully depicted not only joy but also the intricate shadows that lie beneath. Tan’s evocative prose unfurled visions of the Iron Mountains, Amber Forest, and Mist Island, each realm pulsating with its own unique magic and character. The landscapes were almost characters in their own right, reflecting the emotional landscape of Yining, our intrepid heroine.
Yining’s journey is one of stark contrasts and raw emotion. Growing up under the thumb of a callous step-aunt, she embodies the struggle of so many—dreaming of a life of freedom and love while constantly battling the harsh realities that try to snuff out that spark. “Yet girls like me don’t end up with crowns on their heads,” she lamentingly reflects—a sentiment that resonated deeply with me, reminding us of the societal constraints we often face.
Yet, as Yining steps into the Palace of Nine Hills, the allure of a new life glimmers tantalizingly before her, drawing her into a world filled with breathtaking beauty and potential heartache. The moment she finds herself in the company of the brave Prince Zixin and the enigmatic Jin, I felt my heart race along with hers. Each character brings a unique essence to the narrative: Zixin’s bravery carries the weight of a kingdom, while Jin’s charming mystery adds an irresistible layer of intrigue.
The romance, much to my delight, was a subtle and delicate thread interwoven throughout Yining’s adventure. Unlike many stories that drown the plot in romantic drama, here, Tan skillfully allows her characters’ feelings to blossom naturally. I found myself rooting for Yining, but still unclear about which prince will ultimately win her heart. This tension intrigued me even more, leaving me eager for the next installment.
“Not all of us are born monsters; some are made,” is a profound reflection on the complexities of character—both good and evil. This motif reverberated throughout the novel and added depth to every twist and turn, making me ponder the true essence of power and the cost of dreams.
As I closed the book, I felt a mix of satisfaction and yearning—satisfaction in the rich storytelling and character development, and yearning for more of Yining’s journey. With its lyrical prose, layered political intrigue, and stunning world-building, Never Ever After is bound to resonate with fans of fantasy and fairy tale retellings.
If you adore vibrant worlds filled with complex characters, beautiful prose, and moral nuances, you’ll find a treasure in this debut. It’s a poignant reminder that while our pasts may be filled with darkness, a hopeful future still awaits us—one that is unwritten and ours to claim. I can’t wait for the next chapter in Yining’s story. Four brilliant stars from me! 🌟✨
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