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Into the Wonder Dark
Everyone knows the story about the girl who followed the white rabbit. The one who fell down a hole into a land full of curious adventure.But you see, this tale isn’t like that. Because in this one, when Adelais finds the white rabbit, it’s already dead. Just like every person in the land it takes her to.And although there are many wondrous creatures lurking in the Wood, they’re far more interested in carving out her heart than offering her tea.In a world with missing souls and a ruler painted in blood, Adelais knows she shouldn’t trust anyone. Especially Terek, the man cloaked in shadows and blades, who always seems to know when she’s around.But when the Crimson Queen puts a bounty on Adelais’s soul, Terek might just be the only person in the entire Underland who can protect her.From everyone…but himself.
642 pages, Hardcover
Published December 26, 2023
101 people are currently reading
1845 people want to read
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November 22, 2023
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
All opinions in this review are ultimately my own and shouldn’t dissuade you from giving the story a try. You might enjoy it more than I did!
This is a solid ⭐️⭐️.5 stars for me. I love this author so giving this book a less than positive review is hard—but I gotta be honest.
For part one of a duet, this book was way too long for me. Nearly 700 pages, and pacing was a HUGE detriment to my enjoyment. When things were happening my interest was peaked and I was engaged with the story, but in between it was a slog. It felt like not much happened over all. The intro chapters went on too long. I understand the idea of introducing the Upside vs. Underland and how Adelais travels between, I understand wanting to make it so we are really rooting for Adelais to leave and stay in the Underland. But it felt like we focused far too much on her abuse etc while also getting confusing world building smattered in.
Also the choice to have Adelais’ story set in what I am assuming is like late 1800’s-early 1900’s (England?) but have modern phrasing etc was a bit of a jarring decision that pulled me out. that’s me being nitpicky but if the setting of the Upside was modern I wouldn’t have batted an eye.
The world building of the Underland was cool at the surface but I feel like it falls apart a bit. Some of the elements didn’t really make a ton of sense to me given its Afterlife/Purgatory like state and so things were a tad—weird. Idk.
Also Terek was a bit too much. I get it, he’s angry and broody and obsessive but I felt like his lack of communication was just a bit of a lazy way of just dragging the plot on for longer than neccesary . He should have just told Adelais what she needed to know. She also should have acted like her 27 years of age and not been so frustrating in making silly decisions that got her in trouble.
She’s been controlled all her life, yes, and she traumatized by her abuse(of course she is) but her naïveté was used as too much a crutch for me and so it made her actions really frustrating as she kept being wishy washy. Again though, Terek not just calming the heck down and telling her vital info could have solved that. Also I would have liked more of a softer side to him. I like an angry broody MMC as much as the next girl, but it felt like we didn’t get anything other than one side of him so his character felt really flat.
I could go on, but again it would feel like me nitpicking and while I enjoyed the bones of the story the meat just wasn’t cooked like I’d prefer.
All opinions in this review are ultimately my own and shouldn’t dissuade you from giving the story a try. You might enjoy it more than I did!
This is a solid ⭐️⭐️.5 stars for me. I love this author so giving this book a less than positive review is hard—but I gotta be honest.
For part one of a duet, this book was way too long for me. Nearly 700 pages, and pacing was a HUGE detriment to my enjoyment. When things were happening my interest was peaked and I was engaged with the story, but in between it was a slog. It felt like not much happened over all. The intro chapters went on too long. I understand the idea of introducing the Upside vs. Underland and how Adelais travels between, I understand wanting to make it so we are really rooting for Adelais to leave and stay in the Underland. But it felt like we focused far too much on her abuse etc while also getting confusing world building smattered in.
Also the choice to have Adelais’ story set in what I am assuming is like late 1800’s-early 1900’s (England?) but have modern phrasing etc was a bit of a jarring decision that pulled me out. that’s me being nitpicky but if the setting of the Upside was modern I wouldn’t have batted an eye.
The world building of the Underland was cool at the surface but I feel like it falls apart a bit. Some of the elements didn’t really make a ton of sense to me given its Afterlife/Purgatory like state and so things were a tad—weird. Idk.
Also Terek was a bit too much. I get it, he’s angry and broody and obsessive but I felt like his lack of communication was just a bit of a lazy way of just dragging the plot on for longer than neccesary . He should have just told Adelais what she needed to know. She also should have acted like her 27 years of age and not been so frustrating in making silly decisions that got her in trouble.
She’s been controlled all her life, yes, and she traumatized by her abuse(of course she is) but her naïveté was used as too much a crutch for me and so it made her actions really frustrating as she kept being wishy washy. Again though, Terek not just calming the heck down and telling her vital info could have solved that. Also I would have liked more of a softer side to him. I like an angry broody MMC as much as the next girl, but it felt like we didn’t get anything other than one side of him so his character felt really flat.
I could go on, but again it would feel like me nitpicking and while I enjoyed the bones of the story the meat just wasn’t cooked like I’d prefer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2024
Rating: 2 🌟
Spice: 2 🌶️
Themes/Tropes:
- DARK adult fantasy romance - check TWs
- Alice in Wonderland retelling
- Morally grey MMC
- FMC travels to the land of the dead
- Psychotic villain
- Paranormal elements
- Slowburn romance
- Magic
I was excited to read this book, based on the advertising on social media. It seemed right in line with what I enjoy reading, but there were some issues in this book I could not overlook.
This story follows Adelais, from the time she is eight years old, to the "present-day", when she is 27 years old. Adelais is a free-spirit, and does not wish to conform to society. Her unloving parents uses her as a bargaining chip to increase their social status. Throughout the first half of the book, we see the emotional and physical abuse Adelais endures from her parents, teachers, and husband. During this time, Adelais learns that she can travel to the Underland, an "in-between" space where dead souls linger before eventually moving on to their final resting place. In the Underland, she meets Terek, our MMC.
The overall premise of the book is interesting. This is a dark (adult), retelling of Alice in Wonderland. There are many similarities to the original story. I like the world that the author created, and the unique magic that the FMC has. However, that's really as far as it goes for my enjoyment....
Here are a few issues I had with the story:
- Pacing. This is a slow-paced book, and a LONG book (close to 700 pages on Kindle). There were a few moments of excitement, but overall, it was very repetitive and boring. The first 1/3-1/4 of the book focuses on Adelais's upbringing, and this should have been condensed. I do believe it helped the readers gain an understanding of how dire her situation is, and why she would rather spend her time permanently in the Underland. However, I wished we started when Adelais was in her teenage years, instead of at eight. It just dragged on a bit. Moreover, there were a few "everyday" scenes, and a lot of the same arguments over and over between the FMC and MMC, that I think could have been shortened or cut out completely. I found myself skimming irrelevant information (physical setting description, some character descriptions, FMCs internal monologues about the MMC, etc), and didn’t miss anything important.
- Adelais. Despite the hardships she has gone through, which I can empathize with, she is a very unlikable character. When I read a book, I like to put myself in the MC's shoes. What would I do if I were in Adelais's situation? Adelais grew up very sheltered, had minimal contact with the "outside" world (she was not allowed to dress her self, go out by herself, etc). Every person she has interacted with (minus one - her former housekeeper) has abused her in some way. If I were her, I would NOT trust people so easily. She is naive, which fits with her upbringing, but she also makes horrible decisions in regards to her own safety (this is a point that the MMC repeatedly mentions). Example: Adelais blindly trusts and follows a stranger, but then completely ignores the advice of those that have actually showed her kindness (Duma, Dex, and even Terek). The reader could see this turn out badly from a mile away. Her poor decision making is what furthers along the plot, and it was just frustrating to read. It seemed like her abusive past was used as a crutch to justify and explain her poor decision making. There is some character growth for her at the end (she can only improve, TBH).
- Miscommunication/Lack of communication. Specifically, Terek withholds important information that is relevant to Adelais (which goes along with her making poor decisions), because he thinks it's better for her safety. But then, he complains about how Adelais makes poor decisions regarding her safety…! I truly think Adelais would not be so unlikeable if Terek just TOLD Adelais what she wanted to know about the Underland. A big reason she acted the way she did was because Terek literally would not tell her anything. Again, just frustrating to read about. This theme/trope is used to further along the plot, which is annoying.
- Confusing/inconsistent time period and dialogue. Although it is not explicitly stated, the setting of the Upside (when/where Adelais lived) seems to be late 1800s/early 1900s, based on the social events and dress code. When Adelais travels to the Underland, everyone should be older than her (because they are dead...). Terek, Duma, and Dex mention that they have been there for a "few decades", and Terek even mentions towards the end of the book that he has been alive a few decades longer than Adelais's parents. Adelais even mentions needing a "menstrual cloth". However, their speech DOES NOT match the time period. Modern phrasing and slang are used by all the characters. Adelais grew up in high-society, and was taught "proper speech", yet she curses a fair amount that does not fit with her upbringing. This did take me out of the story whenever I encountered certain phrasing that did not make sense with the ages/time period of the characters’s background.
- Narration. As mentioned previously, we go through a fair amount of Adelais's life. There are a few chapters when she is 8-11 years old, when she is a teenager, and when she becomes an adult. The narration is very much the same “voice” throughout these ages. When I read the initial few chapters (when Adelais is eight years old), I remember making a note that she speaks/thinks like someone who is much older. When she becomes an adult in her twenties (and even when she was a teenager), the narration was still very similar to when she was a pre-teen. I wish there was more of a distinction between the ages, because it makes it seem like Adelais is either a REALLY smart child, or a REALLY dumb adult (though based on how she acts when she’s 27 years old, it kind of fits).
- The romance. There was no romance between the two characters. This book is advertised as a slowburn romance, which is a trope I love. However, this is one of the worse slowburn “romances” I’ve ever read. Terek is so emotionally unavailable, and Adelais just keeps giving him more and more chances. Their whole dynamic was very exhausting to read through. They argue for a majority of the book, and Adelais "gets mad" at Terek multiple times (honestly, he is kind of a jerk to her), but then will forgive him multiple times. Both of them throw temper tantrums throughout the book. The author did a poor job in writing a morally-grey MMC in Terek. He was truly insufferable, and just the absolute worse when it came to communication. I felt like the author forced this romance on the readers, and tried to justify their relationship due to a common (spoilery) trope often seen in the fantasy romance genre. I need their romance to have more substance than the characters simply thinking the other as good-looking and being horny for one another. Additionally, feeling a “warmth” or “tug” in their chest whenever they’re not near one another should not be the main reason for these two truly unlikeable characters to be in a relationship. Overall, I'm not thrilled about the romance, and honestly the one spicy scene (which happens at the VERY END, 85-95% mark), was a let down due to everything that led up to it. Also, if you are hoping for these two to settle their differences and communicate as actual adults after they have sex, you will be very disappointed.
I am still unsure if I will read the sequel. I heard this series is a duology, so I just might pick up Book 2, but it's not one that I am counting down the days for it to release.
Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@nicole_thereader
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolethere...
Spice: 2 🌶️
Themes/Tropes:
- DARK adult fantasy romance - check TWs
- Alice in Wonderland retelling
- Morally grey MMC
- FMC travels to the land of the dead
- Psychotic villain
- Paranormal elements
- Slowburn romance
- Magic
I was excited to read this book, based on the advertising on social media. It seemed right in line with what I enjoy reading, but there were some issues in this book I could not overlook.
This story follows Adelais, from the time she is eight years old, to the "present-day", when she is 27 years old. Adelais is a free-spirit, and does not wish to conform to society. Her unloving parents uses her as a bargaining chip to increase their social status. Throughout the first half of the book, we see the emotional and physical abuse Adelais endures from her parents, teachers, and husband. During this time, Adelais learns that she can travel to the Underland, an "in-between" space where dead souls linger before eventually moving on to their final resting place. In the Underland, she meets Terek, our MMC.
The overall premise of the book is interesting. This is a dark (adult), retelling of Alice in Wonderland. There are many similarities to the original story. I like the world that the author created, and the unique magic that the FMC has. However, that's really as far as it goes for my enjoyment....
Here are a few issues I had with the story:
- Pacing. This is a slow-paced book, and a LONG book (close to 700 pages on Kindle). There were a few moments of excitement, but overall, it was very repetitive and boring. The first 1/3-1/4 of the book focuses on Adelais's upbringing, and this should have been condensed. I do believe it helped the readers gain an understanding of how dire her situation is, and why she would rather spend her time permanently in the Underland. However, I wished we started when Adelais was in her teenage years, instead of at eight. It just dragged on a bit. Moreover, there were a few "everyday" scenes, and a lot of the same arguments over and over between the FMC and MMC, that I think could have been shortened or cut out completely. I found myself skimming irrelevant information (physical setting description, some character descriptions, FMCs internal monologues about the MMC, etc), and didn’t miss anything important.
- Adelais. Despite the hardships she has gone through, which I can empathize with, she is a very unlikable character. When I read a book, I like to put myself in the MC's shoes. What would I do if I were in Adelais's situation? Adelais grew up very sheltered, had minimal contact with the "outside" world (she was not allowed to dress her self, go out by herself, etc). Every person she has interacted with (minus one - her former housekeeper) has abused her in some way. If I were her, I would NOT trust people so easily. She is naive, which fits with her upbringing, but she also makes horrible decisions in regards to her own safety (this is a point that the MMC repeatedly mentions). Example: Adelais blindly trusts and follows a stranger, but then completely ignores the advice of those that have actually showed her kindness (Duma, Dex, and even Terek). The reader could see this turn out badly from a mile away. Her poor decision making is what furthers along the plot, and it was just frustrating to read. It seemed like her abusive past was used as a crutch to justify and explain her poor decision making. There is some character growth for her at the end (she can only improve, TBH).
- Miscommunication/Lack of communication. Specifically, Terek withholds important information that is relevant to Adelais (which goes along with her making poor decisions), because he thinks it's better for her safety. But then, he complains about how Adelais makes poor decisions regarding her safety…! I truly think Adelais would not be so unlikeable if Terek just TOLD Adelais what she wanted to know about the Underland. A big reason she acted the way she did was because Terek literally would not tell her anything. Again, just frustrating to read about. This theme/trope is used to further along the plot, which is annoying.
- Confusing/inconsistent time period and dialogue. Although it is not explicitly stated, the setting of the Upside (when/where Adelais lived) seems to be late 1800s/early 1900s, based on the social events and dress code. When Adelais travels to the Underland, everyone should be older than her (because they are dead...). Terek, Duma, and Dex mention that they have been there for a "few decades", and Terek even mentions towards the end of the book that he has been alive a few decades longer than Adelais's parents. Adelais even mentions needing a "menstrual cloth". However, their speech DOES NOT match the time period. Modern phrasing and slang are used by all the characters. Adelais grew up in high-society, and was taught "proper speech", yet she curses a fair amount that does not fit with her upbringing. This did take me out of the story whenever I encountered certain phrasing that did not make sense with the ages/time period of the characters’s background.
- Narration. As mentioned previously, we go through a fair amount of Adelais's life. There are a few chapters when she is 8-11 years old, when she is a teenager, and when she becomes an adult. The narration is very much the same “voice” throughout these ages. When I read the initial few chapters (when Adelais is eight years old), I remember making a note that she speaks/thinks like someone who is much older. When she becomes an adult in her twenties (and even when she was a teenager), the narration was still very similar to when she was a pre-teen. I wish there was more of a distinction between the ages, because it makes it seem like Adelais is either a REALLY smart child, or a REALLY dumb adult (though based on how she acts when she’s 27 years old, it kind of fits).
- The romance. There was no romance between the two characters. This book is advertised as a slowburn romance, which is a trope I love. However, this is one of the worse slowburn “romances” I’ve ever read. Terek is so emotionally unavailable, and Adelais just keeps giving him more and more chances. Their whole dynamic was very exhausting to read through. They argue for a majority of the book, and Adelais "gets mad" at Terek multiple times (honestly, he is kind of a jerk to her), but then will forgive him multiple times. Both of them throw temper tantrums throughout the book. The author did a poor job in writing a morally-grey MMC in Terek. He was truly insufferable, and just the absolute worse when it came to communication. I felt like the author forced this romance on the readers, and tried to justify their relationship due to a common (spoilery) trope often seen in the fantasy romance genre. I need their romance to have more substance than the characters simply thinking the other as good-looking and being horny for one another. Additionally, feeling a “warmth” or “tug” in their chest whenever they’re not near one another should not be the main reason for these two truly unlikeable characters to be in a relationship. Overall, I'm not thrilled about the romance, and honestly the one spicy scene (which happens at the VERY END, 85-95% mark), was a let down due to everything that led up to it. Also, if you are hoping for these two to settle their differences and communicate as actual adults after they have sex, you will be very disappointed.
I am still unsure if I will read the sequel. I heard this series is a duology, so I just might pick up Book 2, but it's not one that I am counting down the days for it to release.
Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@nicole_thereader
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolethere...
December 13, 2023
✨I wasn’t unreasonable when it came to her. I wasn’t unfair or even insane. I was absolutely f-cking unhinged.
**
Wrong. You are mine, and I will rip the heart from your chest and hold it for eternity before I let you give it to someone else.”
**
“Tell me to stop,” I begged, even as I greedily pressed my fingers against her…..”. “Please.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
☠️☠️☠️
Dark Fantasy Romance 📖
✨This story, whew! The steam, swoon, hurt, and love! It utterly consumed, intrigued, saved, and broke my heart all in one go!
A few weeks ago I read Into The Wonder Dark and spiraled deep down the rabbit hole into the Underland of this tantalizing dark fantasy romance.
✨The world that Lilian has built in this story is incredibly unique and truly fascinating. The layers of world building, historical context, and character development interwoven within the plot kept me craving more and more… as did our MC’s! The tension, angst, and chemistry between them was everything!
I have no words for how perfectly executed the relationship development is between the two MC’s over time, or how maddening the slow burn aspect of their story is!
✨Our MMC is definitely a character I hate to love… there were so many times that I wanted to, and did yell at him! Even through his infuriating denial of feelings…. his care and protectiveness, and longing for our FMC underneath shone through his toughened exterior.
On that note, Adelais, our FMC, has endured so very much in her life. There were moments that my heart broke for her, and others that I was utterly enraged for all that she experienced.
✨Who did this to you
✨Forbidden romance
✨Possessive/Obsessive
✨Found Family
✨Dual POV
✨Steamy Slow Burn
✨Unique world & magic system
Into The Wonder Dark releases in 2 week on December 26th and I can not recommend it enough! This is going to be the end of year read that you deserve! Check CW/TW
✨My most sincere and genuine thanks for having me on your ARC team!
**
Wrong. You are mine, and I will rip the heart from your chest and hold it for eternity before I let you give it to someone else.”
**
“Tell me to stop,” I begged, even as I greedily pressed my fingers against her…..”. “Please.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
☠️☠️☠️
Dark Fantasy Romance 📖
✨This story, whew! The steam, swoon, hurt, and love! It utterly consumed, intrigued, saved, and broke my heart all in one go!
A few weeks ago I read Into The Wonder Dark and spiraled deep down the rabbit hole into the Underland of this tantalizing dark fantasy romance.
✨The world that Lilian has built in this story is incredibly unique and truly fascinating. The layers of world building, historical context, and character development interwoven within the plot kept me craving more and more… as did our MC’s! The tension, angst, and chemistry between them was everything!
I have no words for how perfectly executed the relationship development is between the two MC’s over time, or how maddening the slow burn aspect of their story is!
✨Our MMC is definitely a character I hate to love… there were so many times that I wanted to, and did yell at him! Even through his infuriating denial of feelings…. his care and protectiveness, and longing for our FMC underneath shone through his toughened exterior.
On that note, Adelais, our FMC, has endured so very much in her life. There were moments that my heart broke for her, and others that I was utterly enraged for all that she experienced.
✨Who did this to you
✨Forbidden romance
✨Possessive/Obsessive
✨Found Family
✨Dual POV
✨Steamy Slow Burn
✨Unique world & magic system
Into The Wonder Dark releases in 2 week on December 26th and I can not recommend it enough! This is going to be the end of year read that you deserve! Check CW/TW
✨My most sincere and genuine thanks for having me on your ARC team!
February 3, 2025
“We do not stand up for ourselves or anyone else, Adelais. We are women. We smile, we bear it, and we ignore how it cuts.”
If that kind of motherly statement provokes you, then this is a story you will want to read. Our main character Adelais is born into a world where she doesn’t fit, but her parents refuse to accept her as she is and use extreme tactics to break her spirit and force her compliance. What does extreme entail? Unrelenting physical and emotional abuse. The first portion of this book depicts her early life, and witnessing all she endures can be difficult to read at times. But stick with it - I promise the journey is worth it.
Flash forward to Adelais at 27-years-old, and this becomes a spicy, dark, and addictive Alice in Wonderland retelling, for those of us who love a guy who will damn his soul to save hers and eviscerate anyone who touches her along the way. Lilian T. James has mastered the art of a scorching, possessive male character, and Terek is the ultimate depiction of that.
“I wasn’t unreasonable when it came to her. I wasn’t unfair or even insane. I was absolutely fucking unhinged.”
Unhinged is exactly right, and I 👏 am 👏 here 👏 for 👏 it. Though somehow this man exercises supreme control, so this is a sloooow burn. But when he snaps, it is so worth the wait. 🔥🥵🫠😍 Absolutely loved this book and will be reading on repeat until we get part two!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Trigger warnings: childhood physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault (not from parents)
If that kind of motherly statement provokes you, then this is a story you will want to read. Our main character Adelais is born into a world where she doesn’t fit, but her parents refuse to accept her as she is and use extreme tactics to break her spirit and force her compliance. What does extreme entail? Unrelenting physical and emotional abuse. The first portion of this book depicts her early life, and witnessing all she endures can be difficult to read at times. But stick with it - I promise the journey is worth it.
Flash forward to Adelais at 27-years-old, and this becomes a spicy, dark, and addictive Alice in Wonderland retelling, for those of us who love a guy who will damn his soul to save hers and eviscerate anyone who touches her along the way. Lilian T. James has mastered the art of a scorching, possessive male character, and Terek is the ultimate depiction of that.
“I wasn’t unreasonable when it came to her. I wasn’t unfair or even insane. I was absolutely fucking unhinged.”
Unhinged is exactly right, and I 👏 am 👏 here 👏 for 👏 it. Though somehow this man exercises supreme control, so this is a sloooow burn. But when he snaps, it is so worth the wait. 🔥🥵🫠😍 Absolutely loved this book and will be reading on repeat until we get part two!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Trigger warnings: childhood physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault (not from parents)
June 4, 2024
MMC was a bit too much of an asshole for my taste
December 24, 2023
Oh wow, Into the Wonder Dark is unlike any fantasy romance that I've read in a WHILE. The story is intricate and well-written, the twists are mind-blowing, and whew, that slow burn is WORTH IT. Oh gosh, I think this book is the first Alice in Wonderland retelling I've ever read, and I LOVED how absolutely wild everything was. You do not want to miss out on this book, an AMAZING fantasy read.
From a very young age, Adelais has been different. She never fit in with her wealthy family or local society, preferring freedom to learning how to be a perfect wife and mother. However, she has a secret ability that enables her to escape - she is able to propel her body into the Underland, a kind of purgatory for restless souls. On her first (accidental) visit, she meets a mysterious man names Terek who, despite his surly demeanor, seems to look out for her whenever she returns. She feels a pull towards him and isn't quite sure why she keeps thinking about him despite his constant animosity towards her. Eventually Adelais winds up in a horrible and abusive marriage, unable to travel back to the Underland but never forgetting it. When she finally has an opportunity to escape, Terek very reluctantly agrees to help her, but he is clearly hiding something. Can Adelais finally find peace in the Underland? Or has she traded one life of horrors for another?
Whew, this book has one of the most interesting and detailed plots of anything I've read in a while. The imagery is incredibly descriptive and Lilian really made this crazy world come alive. I knew going into this book that it was going to be dark and it was going to be a significant slow burn, and both are VERY true. Definitely check TWs as some parts hard to read, especially Adelais' life on the Upside. And OMG the slow burn! There are indications of the connection between Terek and Adelais from early on, but gosh, they hate each other for a LONG time. Though Adelais seems to really see him as a savior, Terek has some very complicated feelings about her, and I loved that this book was dual POV so we could really see into his head. The spice is worth it when it comes, but be prepared to wait a bit!
The allusions to Alice in Wonderland throughout the book were SO COOL. I probably could have caught more had I gotten a refresher on the story, but still, super cool to find references everywhere. And wow, the ending is absolutely crazy, and I am SO INTRIGUED to find out where the story is going. If you are ready for something totally different in the realm of romantasy, definitely pick this one up!
From a very young age, Adelais has been different. She never fit in with her wealthy family or local society, preferring freedom to learning how to be a perfect wife and mother. However, she has a secret ability that enables her to escape - she is able to propel her body into the Underland, a kind of purgatory for restless souls. On her first (accidental) visit, she meets a mysterious man names Terek who, despite his surly demeanor, seems to look out for her whenever she returns. She feels a pull towards him and isn't quite sure why she keeps thinking about him despite his constant animosity towards her. Eventually Adelais winds up in a horrible and abusive marriage, unable to travel back to the Underland but never forgetting it. When she finally has an opportunity to escape, Terek very reluctantly agrees to help her, but he is clearly hiding something. Can Adelais finally find peace in the Underland? Or has she traded one life of horrors for another?
Whew, this book has one of the most interesting and detailed plots of anything I've read in a while. The imagery is incredibly descriptive and Lilian really made this crazy world come alive. I knew going into this book that it was going to be dark and it was going to be a significant slow burn, and both are VERY true. Definitely check TWs as some parts hard to read, especially Adelais' life on the Upside. And OMG the slow burn! There are indications of the connection between Terek and Adelais from early on, but gosh, they hate each other for a LONG time. Though Adelais seems to really see him as a savior, Terek has some very complicated feelings about her, and I loved that this book was dual POV so we could really see into his head. The spice is worth it when it comes, but be prepared to wait a bit!
The allusions to Alice in Wonderland throughout the book were SO COOL. I probably could have caught more had I gotten a refresher on the story, but still, super cool to find references everywhere. And wow, the ending is absolutely crazy, and I am SO INTRIGUED to find out where the story is going. If you are ready for something totally different in the realm of romantasy, definitely pick this one up!
December 25, 2023
✨ Into the Wonder Dark ✨
~ Found family
~ Slowburn
~ Possessive MMC
✨ My thoughts ✨
Holy cow! This was a fantastic read. I enjoyed every moment of this book. This book felt unique and different. I enjoy the world and characters. Adelais story is heartbreaking. To see her finally take a stand on how her story plays out was great to read. Now Terek... He is possessive and everything morally grey. I am truly obsessed with him. The slowburn is 100% worth it. It was so perfect. This is a loose retelling of Alice and wonderland. I loved seeing all the elements of that as well. I am excited to see where this story goes. I have so many questions. I can't recommend this enough. Especially those who like a darker fantasy.
Into the Wonder Dark is book 1 in Duet by Lilian T James. This book is recommended for 18+. This book is out on December 26th, 2023. I have been a huge fan of Lilian's work. This one didn't disappoint. As always please check TW before reading.
✨ I want to thank Lillian for an ARC copy of this book. I am beyond thankful for this opportunity. These are my own true thoughts. ✨
~ Found family
~ Slowburn
~ Possessive MMC
✨ My thoughts ✨
Holy cow! This was a fantastic read. I enjoyed every moment of this book. This book felt unique and different. I enjoy the world and characters. Adelais story is heartbreaking. To see her finally take a stand on how her story plays out was great to read. Now Terek... He is possessive and everything morally grey. I am truly obsessed with him. The slowburn is 100% worth it. It was so perfect. This is a loose retelling of Alice and wonderland. I loved seeing all the elements of that as well. I am excited to see where this story goes. I have so many questions. I can't recommend this enough. Especially those who like a darker fantasy.
Into the Wonder Dark is book 1 in Duet by Lilian T James. This book is recommended for 18+. This book is out on December 26th, 2023. I have been a huge fan of Lilian's work. This one didn't disappoint. As always please check TW before reading.
✨ I want to thank Lillian for an ARC copy of this book. I am beyond thankful for this opportunity. These are my own true thoughts. ✨
May 4, 2024
I REALLY ENJOYED THIS.
It’s not very spicy (rating: 🌶️)
Buuuut the sexual tension and the true enemies to lovers was so good. I say true enemies to lovers but what I mean is that Terek is a fucking asshole and he says things to her that are fucked up even when they become lovers. Idk I love that he is a good morally grey character.
The story has a really good build up and good filler. There aren’t many “events” in this book so a lot of it is small scenes and the beginning there are some time jumps - thank god. Once you get to part 2, there was definitely some corn starch added in to make the plot thicker.
I’m super excited to read the next one!!!
It’s not very spicy (rating: 🌶️)
Buuuut the sexual tension and the true enemies to lovers was so good. I say true enemies to lovers but what I mean is that Terek is a fucking asshole and he says things to her that are fucked up even when they become lovers. Idk I love that he is a good morally grey character.
The story has a really good build up and good filler. There aren’t many “events” in this book so a lot of it is small scenes and the beginning there are some time jumps - thank god. Once you get to part 2, there was definitely some corn starch added in to make the plot thicker.
I’m super excited to read the next one!!!
December 9, 2023
Wow I really loved this one! It gave me so much more than what I was expecting from an Alice in Wonderland retelling. I loved the world built and how she was traveling between the realms. Also that Terek has always been there for her. They are both insanely stubborn but I think that also elevated their passion. I loved the side characters of the twins: the queen reminded me of Regina from Once Upon a Time (before she turned good)— just insanely wicked.
January 27, 2024
This was a journey, a huge huge journey. You know how sometimes fantasy books are TOO long, and the length of the book kills the plot rather than advances it? That was not the case here, and the lush world that was built between Adelais’s 8th and 27th birthdays were worth the slow, slow burn to the payoff we got. Was it a little bit slow in some spots? Yes, but it didn’t put me off or take away from the plot and I truly am so excited for the next one. I mean, THAT LAST LINE?!
May 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶️
I was initially going to give this 4 stars for the amount of pages that were spent on backstory and filler. I’m not one for slow burn.
However, after reading the last 10 or so chapters in this book, I’m starting to understand why we were given SO much detail into Ace’s childhood. I feel something else going on here 👀
If you go into this thinking that it is dragging a bit, it does. But I now I think there’s a reason.
I was initially going to give this 4 stars for the amount of pages that were spent on backstory and filler. I’m not one for slow burn.
However, after reading the last 10 or so chapters in this book, I’m starting to understand why we were given SO much detail into Ace’s childhood. I feel something else going on here 👀
If you go into this thinking that it is dragging a bit, it does. But I now I think there’s a reason.
December 23, 2023
Lilian T James always knocks it out of the park and Into the Wonder Dark is no exception. With all the best tropes. Frenemies to lovers. Touch her and die. Possessive MMC. Slow burn. And one of my personal faves Who did this to you?!
I love Alice in Wonderland retellings and this is everything I didn’t know that I needed. So excited for the next book!
I love Alice in Wonderland retellings and this is everything I didn’t know that I needed. So excited for the next book!
June 17, 2025
Okay, honestly I got this book from a blind date with a book and I thought I wasn’t going to like it. I DID LIKE IT, a lot. It is a dark twist on Alice in Wonderland. The enemies to lovers was a very SLOW burn and I did think it was weird he watched her grow up and then they become lovers… the ending was a cliff hanger and not sure if there is a second but if there is i want to read it!!!!!
December 28, 2023
Summary
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
Spicy rating: 🌶️🌶️ 2.5/5
Fluff rating: 💖 1/5
💀 Multiple trauma triggers in this book - sensitive readers check before reading
Gosh I don’t even know how to review this. What a ride!
I’ve been an L T. James fan for a few years now and this is like nothing she’s ever written.
This was a dark and gritty fantasy romance with some paranormal undertones and a loose retelling of Alice in wonderland (like OG acid trip nightmare through the looking glass vibes). It was gripping and grotesque in all the best ways and I absolutely loved it!
The MCs were well written and dynamic and my heart genuinely hurt in my chest reading about Adelais’ trauma she’d survived and her finding her escape in the Underland (land of the dead/ purgatory). The quote “don’t let them break you” really resonates during her dark times.
Make no mistake, Terek is a grade A Alpha-hole, walking red flag, villainous, obsessive, cruel beast of a MMC but fuck do I love him anyway. Our found family side characters were sweet protective big brother types and I adored them too.
I think my only major critique is that I would’ve liked a little more world building like some deeper explanation of how and why everyone’s abilities come to be etc and a bit more of Terek’s past life events in the underland to allow us to understand his character more. We get loads of Adelais’ back story priming which was perfect but I would’ve liked a bit more of how/ what Terek was doing during these times.
The writing style was gorgeously descriptive and really immersive from the start. The pacing was good and it is a very binge worthy but fat read! I cannot wait for the next and final instalment of this duet. We are primed and ready for a battle of epic proportions and some heartache I fear.
I am immensely grateful to have read this book as an ARC.
February 13, 2024
Quick disclaimer: I do realise that my issues with this book are based on personal preferences / dislikes and are not inherently indicative of someone else‘s reading experience. I simply like to voice my opinion, so that people who see themselves in this review, because they have similar taste, can better judge if they want to read the book or not. On the other hand, if anyone tends to like the aspects I mentioned as dislikes, they could very well be more inclined to pick this book up.
Here's my thoughts about the book:
I was in the mood for a bit of a romance-heavier fantasy when I stumbled upon character art of this book on Instagram. After reading the synopsis, I was quite intrigued: An Alice in Wonderland retelling, where everyone tries to kill Alice. It sounded quite dark.
Additionally, the slow-burn romance was strongly advertised. If there‘s one romance trope I absolutely despise, it‘s insta-love / fated love. *sigh* Honestly, I‘m disappointed but not surprised. How many times have I picked up a fantasy romance book, based on the supposed slow-burn, just to find out that the author (or other readers) have a very different definition of what “slow-burn“ means? For the record, my understanding is that the characters can‘t just lie to each other, saying that they have no interest in the other person, but whenever we‘re reading from either of their p.o.v.s, they constantly think about how much they want to bang. If two characters are very clearly in love with each other from a relatively early point on, but they just pretend not to be, that‘s not slow-burn, imo. I don‘t understand why everyone always seems to disagree with this definition.
Furthermore, I dislike fated love, because it‘s almost always connected with insta-love and, additionally, it‘s usually used as an excuse to not give the romantic pairing any real chemistry.
The male love interest first meets the female mc when she‘s 8, while he has the appearance of someone in their early to mid thirties, but has lived a few decades longer than that, because that‘s when he stopped aging.
At first, he‘s not lusting after her, but as soon as she hits late adolescence / early adulthood, he‘s suddenly infatuated. There‘s just something a little bit weird about someone seeing a child slowly grow up like this, but as soon as they hit their twenties, they suddenly become an object of lust. Sure, they‘re both consenting adults - after the introductory part of the book -, but I can‘t help but be a little put off by this.
The prose was alright. Far from being the best I‘ve ever read, but also not the worst.
Another pet-peeve of mine that irked me quite a bit in this book is unnecessary swearing. I like to use language befitting the situation in a way that underlines my emotions the most effectively. As a general concept I have no issue with extreme swearing if the situation demands it, obviously. I use swear words to underline extreme dislike or frustration and I feel like that‘s the case with most adults. So, when an adult uses the word “fuck / fucking“ in every other sentence (talking about the male mc; the female mc doesn‘t do that), I suddenly can‘t help but feel like I‘m reading about a pubescent teenager, because this is what a lot of 12 to 15 year olds do (Myself included, at the time. I‘m definitely not exempt from this). They swear, just for the sake of it. They think it makes themselves look “cooler“ or “tougher“. Instead, it makes them look more immature, in my opinion. However, that‘s completely fine. They ARE immature, for the most part. When someone physically in their thirties (mentally, far older) does this, it makes them sound like such a young teenager. With that picture in mind, reading sex scenes makes me extremely uncomfortable.
Overall, the book didn‘t manage to pull me in. I wasn‘t really interested in the characters‘ well-being, because I didn‘t like them very much (mostly because I did get a little annoyed at some of their actions and their lack of communication when it mattered most), thus being quite uninterested in most of the plot as well. If you're more of a plot-driven reader, this might not be as much of an issue, though.
Here's my thoughts about the book:
I was in the mood for a bit of a romance-heavier fantasy when I stumbled upon character art of this book on Instagram. After reading the synopsis, I was quite intrigued: An Alice in Wonderland retelling, where everyone tries to kill Alice. It sounded quite dark.
Additionally, the slow-burn romance was strongly advertised. If there‘s one romance trope I absolutely despise, it‘s insta-love / fated love. *sigh* Honestly, I‘m disappointed but not surprised. How many times have I picked up a fantasy romance book, based on the supposed slow-burn, just to find out that the author (or other readers) have a very different definition of what “slow-burn“ means? For the record, my understanding is that the characters can‘t just lie to each other, saying that they have no interest in the other person, but whenever we‘re reading from either of their p.o.v.s, they constantly think about how much they want to bang. If two characters are very clearly in love with each other from a relatively early point on, but they just pretend not to be, that‘s not slow-burn, imo. I don‘t understand why everyone always seems to disagree with this definition.
Furthermore, I dislike fated love, because it‘s almost always connected with insta-love and, additionally, it‘s usually used as an excuse to not give the romantic pairing any real chemistry.
The male love interest first meets the female mc when she‘s 8, while he has the appearance of someone in their early to mid thirties, but has lived a few decades longer than that, because that‘s when he stopped aging.
At first, he‘s not lusting after her, but as soon as she hits late adolescence / early adulthood, he‘s suddenly infatuated. There‘s just something a little bit weird about someone seeing a child slowly grow up like this, but as soon as they hit their twenties, they suddenly become an object of lust. Sure, they‘re both consenting adults - after the introductory part of the book -, but I can‘t help but be a little put off by this.
The prose was alright. Far from being the best I‘ve ever read, but also not the worst.
Another pet-peeve of mine that irked me quite a bit in this book is unnecessary swearing. I like to use language befitting the situation in a way that underlines my emotions the most effectively. As a general concept I have no issue with extreme swearing if the situation demands it, obviously. I use swear words to underline extreme dislike or frustration and I feel like that‘s the case with most adults. So, when an adult uses the word “fuck / fucking“ in every other sentence (talking about the male mc; the female mc doesn‘t do that), I suddenly can‘t help but feel like I‘m reading about a pubescent teenager, because this is what a lot of 12 to 15 year olds do (Myself included, at the time. I‘m definitely not exempt from this). They swear, just for the sake of it. They think it makes themselves look “cooler“ or “tougher“. Instead, it makes them look more immature, in my opinion. However, that‘s completely fine. They ARE immature, for the most part. When someone physically in their thirties (mentally, far older) does this, it makes them sound like such a young teenager. With that picture in mind, reading sex scenes makes me extremely uncomfortable.
Overall, the book didn‘t manage to pull me in. I wasn‘t really interested in the characters‘ well-being, because I didn‘t like them very much (mostly because I did get a little annoyed at some of their actions and their lack of communication when it mattered most), thus being quite uninterested in most of the plot as well. If you're more of a plot-driven reader, this might not be as much of an issue, though.
December 26, 2023
Into The Wonder Dark: A Dark Fantasy And Spicy Retelling Of The Classic Tale "Alice In Wonderland" Is A Must For Fans Of Belladonna And One Dark Window.
Disclaimer: Please check content/trigger warnings which can be found at Lilian T. James' website.
Releasing on December 26th 2023, Into The Wonder Dark grips it's readers from the first page with a new spin on the classic tale of "Alice in Wonderland". 8 year old Adelais (pronounced Ad-eh-lace), ventures by accident into "Underland", a middle ground for deceased souls who have yet to cross over into heaven/hell, after touching a deceased rabbit. Adelais has no clue where or how she has ventured to this new place and has yet to realize the danger she is in when she stumbles into Terek, a tanned shadowy figure while out hunting the Creatures of the Wood.
One of the content warnings is that the FMC meets the MMC when she is 8, however their relationship doessn't develop into a romantic one until Adelais turns 27 years old. Adelais meets Terek at 8 years old and develops a sort of acquaintance/situationship/friendship with him. He truly sees her in her younger years as a bratty little kid, and does not think of her in a romantic way at all until she reaches maturity. He doesn't even recognize her when she returns to Underland at 20 years old and they kiss. My personal opinion in this situation is that I don't see a problem with it because he is deceased and thus doesn't truly age since he died in his thirty's. However, you as a reader might see a problem with it (i.e., thinking that he is potentially or acting like a pedophile), and while I might disagree with that line of thinking, if this could be triggering for you, I wouldn't recommend this book.
In addition, there is on-page violence, abuse and gore, off-page and/or implied child abuse and sexual assault, discussions of sexual assault, and discussions of marital abuse. If any of the previous mentioned trigger warnings might affect you, I would recommend proceeding with caution if you decide to read this book. As always, I am recommending this to readers aged 18+ due to it's sexually explicit content.
With tropes of:
-Found Family
-Possessive MMC
-Fated Mates
-Enemies To Lovers
This book is perfect for readers who fell in love with Belladonna and One Dark Window. With dual POV of both Adelais and Terek, the characters are oblivious to each others experiences, giving readers an inside look into their thoughts and experiences. This was such a brilliant idea from James because it lets readers see the why behind their actions while that remains a mystery from the characters themselves.
I would rate into Into The Wonder Dark 4 stars and 3 out of 6 peppers on a spice scale. Please see my Rating System for reference which can be found on my website www.bookishbylexi.com. While the first chapter was a bit difficult for me to delve into, once I understood a bit of Adelais' background, the story was easy and fun to read. Similar to her Bookish Box Exclusive Edition of Untainted, I anticipate we can expect another exclusive edition for Into The Wonder Dark.
Thank you to Lilian T. James for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Disclaimer: Please check content/trigger warnings which can be found at Lilian T. James' website.
Releasing on December 26th 2023, Into The Wonder Dark grips it's readers from the first page with a new spin on the classic tale of "Alice in Wonderland". 8 year old Adelais (pronounced Ad-eh-lace), ventures by accident into "Underland", a middle ground for deceased souls who have yet to cross over into heaven/hell, after touching a deceased rabbit. Adelais has no clue where or how she has ventured to this new place and has yet to realize the danger she is in when she stumbles into Terek, a tanned shadowy figure while out hunting the Creatures of the Wood.
One of the content warnings is that the FMC meets the MMC when she is 8, however their relationship doessn't develop into a romantic one until Adelais turns 27 years old. Adelais meets Terek at 8 years old and develops a sort of acquaintance/situationship/friendship with him. He truly sees her in her younger years as a bratty little kid, and does not think of her in a romantic way at all until she reaches maturity. He doesn't even recognize her when she returns to Underland at 20 years old and they kiss. My personal opinion in this situation is that I don't see a problem with it because he is deceased and thus doesn't truly age since he died in his thirty's. However, you as a reader might see a problem with it (i.e., thinking that he is potentially or acting like a pedophile), and while I might disagree with that line of thinking, if this could be triggering for you, I wouldn't recommend this book.
In addition, there is on-page violence, abuse and gore, off-page and/or implied child abuse and sexual assault, discussions of sexual assault, and discussions of marital abuse. If any of the previous mentioned trigger warnings might affect you, I would recommend proceeding with caution if you decide to read this book. As always, I am recommending this to readers aged 18+ due to it's sexually explicit content.
With tropes of:
-Found Family
-Possessive MMC
-Fated Mates
-Enemies To Lovers
This book is perfect for readers who fell in love with Belladonna and One Dark Window. With dual POV of both Adelais and Terek, the characters are oblivious to each others experiences, giving readers an inside look into their thoughts and experiences. This was such a brilliant idea from James because it lets readers see the why behind their actions while that remains a mystery from the characters themselves.
I would rate into Into The Wonder Dark 4 stars and 3 out of 6 peppers on a spice scale. Please see my Rating System for reference which can be found on my website www.bookishbylexi.com. While the first chapter was a bit difficult for me to delve into, once I understood a bit of Adelais' background, the story was easy and fun to read. Similar to her Bookish Box Exclusive Edition of Untainted, I anticipate we can expect another exclusive edition for Into The Wonder Dark.
Thank you to Lilian T. James for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 15, 2023
Well, Lilian did it again. Her brain knows exactly how to whip up a dark and heavy story with the most toxic (in the best of ways) morally gray characters, courageous and strong FMCs, and unique lore and world building. Truly, this book is probably my new favorite of hers and that’s saying A LOT because I’m still obsessed over her Crystal Island series. 🤣
🐰 TROPES & THEMES 🐰
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Possessive MMC
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Immortal Love Interest (she’s 27)
✔️ Dark Fantasy with PNR Elements
✔️ Loose Retelling
✔️ Fated Mates *screams*
Firstly, read the CW/TW on this story because it is dark, and it is heavy. But Lilian knows how to write those kinds of books because the storyline while delving into those heavier themes is about overcoming so much, and pushing through until the end and not giving up. Our FMC, Adelais, or Ace, is an excellent example of this.
Her life is a sad one - even from the very beginnings. It broke my heart reading about it. She kept finding herself in the Underland, or the place between the living and the void. And in this place, she kept running into moody and morally gray af Terek who is adamant she goes right back to where she belongs.
I’m gonna keep this review as spoiler free as I can. While this book is a chunk, do not let that scare you away. I never ONCE grew bored. I was invested and hooked the entire time. There was always something that kept me going, or wondering what’ll happen next as I went about life wanting to go back to reading.
The slow burn Lilian has down to a science. The angst? The tension? When I tell you I about combusted when they finally touched? I’m not even playing. 🤣 it was SO 👏🏻 GOOD 👏🏻
The villain in this story is very interesting, I’m dying to learn more about the past and history of them and the others - I’m hoping we get some of that in the next book!!
The character growth of Ace through all this, ugh. I was absolutely being a mom over here on the sidelines clapping and screaming as she overcame mental and physical hurdles and grew. 🥹
This book is a must read for all you people out there who love darker fantasy stories with that slow burn spice. This book is the perfect example of that niche, and I can’t wait until this book is released into the world and everyone can read it and go feral with me. 🥹
Thank you so much Lilian for this arc, as always these are my honest thoughts and feelings!
🐰 TROPES & THEMES 🐰
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Possessive MMC
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Immortal Love Interest (she’s 27)
✔️ Dark Fantasy with PNR Elements
✔️ Loose Retelling
✔️ Fated Mates *screams*
Firstly, read the CW/TW on this story because it is dark, and it is heavy. But Lilian knows how to write those kinds of books because the storyline while delving into those heavier themes is about overcoming so much, and pushing through until the end and not giving up. Our FMC, Adelais, or Ace, is an excellent example of this.
Her life is a sad one - even from the very beginnings. It broke my heart reading about it. She kept finding herself in the Underland, or the place between the living and the void. And in this place, she kept running into moody and morally gray af Terek who is adamant she goes right back to where she belongs.
I’m gonna keep this review as spoiler free as I can. While this book is a chunk, do not let that scare you away. I never ONCE grew bored. I was invested and hooked the entire time. There was always something that kept me going, or wondering what’ll happen next as I went about life wanting to go back to reading.
The slow burn Lilian has down to a science. The angst? The tension? When I tell you I about combusted when they finally touched? I’m not even playing. 🤣 it was SO 👏🏻 GOOD 👏🏻
The villain in this story is very interesting, I’m dying to learn more about the past and history of them and the others - I’m hoping we get some of that in the next book!!
The character growth of Ace through all this, ugh. I was absolutely being a mom over here on the sidelines clapping and screaming as she overcame mental and physical hurdles and grew. 🥹
This book is a must read for all you people out there who love darker fantasy stories with that slow burn spice. This book is the perfect example of that niche, and I can’t wait until this book is released into the world and everyone can read it and go feral with me. 🥹
Thank you so much Lilian for this arc, as always these are my honest thoughts and feelings!
November 27, 2023
Thank you to Lilian T. James for allowing me to receive this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Slow burn? ✅
Fated souls? ✅
Paranormal romance? ✅
Immortal age-gap? ✅
We follow Adelais throughout her childhood as she discovers she can just transport from the the realm of the living to the realm of the dead. I actually quite liked our FMC. My heart was sad hearing what her parents made her go through as a child. From her mother dying her hair blonde because “black in the hair was a sign of the devil,” to them shipping her off to some school for ladies and then subsequently marrying her off to that same schools founder who is just a horrible excuse of a human. It was all just so much for a child to go through all that. I felt very protective of Adelais. I just wanted her to have some type of happiness for one dang second. Now although I like Adelais, that’s not to say she was without her own faults. I think a mixture of her abusive upbringing with a lack of communication on our MMC’s part, she constantly made the wrong choices when in the Underland. So I was ecstatic when our MMC, Terek was introduced. Sadly, I was not impressed with him at all.
From the beginning, he was just plain mean to Adelais. He quickly found that Adelais liked being in the Underland because that was her escape from the Upside and yet he couldn’t hold back his vicious words. He hurt her again and again. At what point is enough, enough? I just wanted him to, I don’t know, maybe NOT make bold assumptions about her? He thought he had her life in the Upside all figured out. That this young girl couldn’t have possibly gone through anything traumatic in her life. But as the story progresses, her pain just increases and he’s oblivious to it or just didn’t care. I get why he wanted to stop her from going to his world but I couldn’t let go of all the mean things he said to her. If I would’ve been able to let all that go, my rating would’ve been much higher.
I was supposed to fall in love with the thought of Adelais and Terek being together and them being fated souls but there weren’t many instances in which I was convinced of his love for her. Aside from that, this was such an excruciatingly slow burn. Truly nothing happened until maybe the 85-90% mark. I was desperate for more than just subtle looks and touches but with this book being already 600+ pages, I was just annoyed at how long it took to read some steamy scenes. I’m quickly learning that I like slow burns but not excruciatingly long ones.
Overall, I just wasn’t sold on the romance aspect of the book.
Slow burn? ✅
Fated souls? ✅
Paranormal romance? ✅
Immortal age-gap? ✅
We follow Adelais throughout her childhood as she discovers she can just transport from the the realm of the living to the realm of the dead. I actually quite liked our FMC. My heart was sad hearing what her parents made her go through as a child. From her mother dying her hair blonde because “black in the hair was a sign of the devil,” to them shipping her off to some school for ladies and then subsequently marrying her off to that same schools founder who is just a horrible excuse of a human. It was all just so much for a child to go through all that. I felt very protective of Adelais. I just wanted her to have some type of happiness for one dang second. Now although I like Adelais, that’s not to say she was without her own faults. I think a mixture of her abusive upbringing with a lack of communication on our MMC’s part, she constantly made the wrong choices when in the Underland. So I was ecstatic when our MMC, Terek was introduced. Sadly, I was not impressed with him at all.
From the beginning, he was just plain mean to Adelais. He quickly found that Adelais liked being in the Underland because that was her escape from the Upside and yet he couldn’t hold back his vicious words. He hurt her again and again. At what point is enough, enough? I just wanted him to, I don’t know, maybe NOT make bold assumptions about her? He thought he had her life in the Upside all figured out. That this young girl couldn’t have possibly gone through anything traumatic in her life. But as the story progresses, her pain just increases and he’s oblivious to it or just didn’t care. I get why he wanted to stop her from going to his world but I couldn’t let go of all the mean things he said to her. If I would’ve been able to let all that go, my rating would’ve been much higher.
I was supposed to fall in love with the thought of Adelais and Terek being together and them being fated souls but there weren’t many instances in which I was convinced of his love for her. Aside from that, this was such an excruciatingly slow burn. Truly nothing happened until maybe the 85-90% mark. I was desperate for more than just subtle looks and touches but with this book being already 600+ pages, I was just annoyed at how long it took to read some steamy scenes. I’m quickly learning that I like slow burns but not excruciatingly long ones.
Overall, I just wasn’t sold on the romance aspect of the book.
December 27, 2023
I have always been an Alice in Wonderland fan, and 🐇🖤 Into the Wonder Dark by Lilian T. James 🖤🐇 is now my favorite retelling of the classic fairytale. Equal parts dark romance and thrilling action, this read hooked me in the first chapter and had an absolute hold on me the entire time I was reading it.
It’s a difficult task to write a retelling and add a unique spin to it. The world building and realm concepts in Into the Wonder Dark were truly special. They seamlessly combined humanism and fantasy to create a captivating magic realism that created a sense of relatability but also yearning for magic at the same time.
Although this book is categorized as a dark romance, it explores extremely important themes unrelated to romance. It explores problematic social expectations put on women and the dysfunctional history of patriarchy. The main female character, Adelais, encompasses a strong-willed mindset, and she continuously pushes for autonomy and control over her own choices and situations. Her struggle and persistence is honest and relatable. The book also has a heavy focus on belonging and trust. Fans of the found family trope will have a soft spot for this story.
The romantic storyline is a true slow-burn with dark themes and 18+ content. The dialogue between the love interests is laced with witty banter and sarcasm, but also protection and tenderness at times. There is a delicate balance between dark and light that James achieves in the romantic piece of her story.
Of course, there are also highly quotable moments, that would have any romance fan running to read this:
“I am but a moth throwing myself at your flame, seeking that blinding oblivion, yet knowing I’ll only burn.” 🔥
This book does end on a cliffhanger and is planned to be a duet. As this is dark romance, there are TW’s listed that I recommend looking at prior to reading.
🖤I want to send a huge thank you to Lilian T. James for sending me this copy of Into the Wonder Dark.🖤
#intothewonderdark #liliantjames #aliceinwonderland #darkromance #darkfairytale #darkretelling #retelling #strongfemalecharacters #romancereader #bookreviews #2023reads #goodreadschallenge
It’s a difficult task to write a retelling and add a unique spin to it. The world building and realm concepts in Into the Wonder Dark were truly special. They seamlessly combined humanism and fantasy to create a captivating magic realism that created a sense of relatability but also yearning for magic at the same time.
Although this book is categorized as a dark romance, it explores extremely important themes unrelated to romance. It explores problematic social expectations put on women and the dysfunctional history of patriarchy. The main female character, Adelais, encompasses a strong-willed mindset, and she continuously pushes for autonomy and control over her own choices and situations. Her struggle and persistence is honest and relatable. The book also has a heavy focus on belonging and trust. Fans of the found family trope will have a soft spot for this story.
The romantic storyline is a true slow-burn with dark themes and 18+ content. The dialogue between the love interests is laced with witty banter and sarcasm, but also protection and tenderness at times. There is a delicate balance between dark and light that James achieves in the romantic piece of her story.
Of course, there are also highly quotable moments, that would have any romance fan running to read this:
“I am but a moth throwing myself at your flame, seeking that blinding oblivion, yet knowing I’ll only burn.” 🔥
This book does end on a cliffhanger and is planned to be a duet. As this is dark romance, there are TW’s listed that I recommend looking at prior to reading.
🖤I want to send a huge thank you to Lilian T. James for sending me this copy of Into the Wonder Dark.🖤
#intothewonderdark #liliantjames #aliceinwonderland #darkromance #darkfairytale #darkretelling #retelling #strongfemalecharacters #romancereader #bookreviews #2023reads #goodreadschallenge
November 12, 2025
OHMYGAWDDDD this is a top read for me for the year! Whattttt!!!??? I didn't have many reads the past few months. But in the month of December, I have not one, but two, books that are at the top of my yearly favorites. Both dark fantasy retellings to boot! (Carrion by Amarah Calderini is the other if ya didn't see my post a while back)
First off, GO READ THIS BOOK!!! Idk when book 2 is coming, but omg, I NEED it like I need air now.
This was actually my first book I've read from this particular author.... and definitely not my last now.
“Unless of course, your desired method of thanks doesn’t involve using your lips to speak. In which case, I’d have to tell you, that’d be much preferred.”
🤭😉
This is an Alice In Wonderland retelling but beyonddd. Like not at all what you're thinking. But yet it has sprinkles of the story we all know. The story is so unique in its own right. It is a chunk of a read, at almost 700 pages. But ohhhh it's worth it. I was hooked the entire time. It's a process this book. It starts way back in Adelais's life as a young girl to now in the present. It's a journey and done so perfectly. Go in as blind as possible, other than check tws if ya need em. I knew nothing of this book prior to seeing it on Amazon's 'you may also like' section. SO glad I grabbed it!
▪︎Dual POV
▪︎Slow angstiest of burns with a payoff that'll have ya fanning yourself.
▪︎A very posessive, soulless man that melted me right from the start. Omg, Terek is top tier on every level. Wowzers! And hot DAYUMN!
▪︎Dark fantasy and even gore elements.
▪︎Fated souls.
▪︎Banter.
▪︎One bed. One cave.
▪︎Seriously, there are SO many things. Just go step into the Wood for yourself. I promise it's beyond worth it!
“I will give my heart to whomever I wish.”
“Wrong. You are mine, and I will rip the heart from your chest and hold it for eternity before I let you give it to someone else.”
🫠🫠🫠
This book get infinity stars from me!
First off, GO READ THIS BOOK!!! Idk when book 2 is coming, but omg, I NEED it like I need air now.
This was actually my first book I've read from this particular author.... and definitely not my last now.
“Unless of course, your desired method of thanks doesn’t involve using your lips to speak. In which case, I’d have to tell you, that’d be much preferred.”
🤭😉
This is an Alice In Wonderland retelling but beyonddd. Like not at all what you're thinking. But yet it has sprinkles of the story we all know. The story is so unique in its own right. It is a chunk of a read, at almost 700 pages. But ohhhh it's worth it. I was hooked the entire time. It's a process this book. It starts way back in Adelais's life as a young girl to now in the present. It's a journey and done so perfectly. Go in as blind as possible, other than check tws if ya need em. I knew nothing of this book prior to seeing it on Amazon's 'you may also like' section. SO glad I grabbed it!
▪︎Dual POV
▪︎Slow angstiest of burns with a payoff that'll have ya fanning yourself.
▪︎A very posessive, soulless man that melted me right from the start. Omg, Terek is top tier on every level. Wowzers! And hot DAYUMN!
▪︎Dark fantasy and even gore elements.
▪︎Fated souls.
▪︎Banter.
▪︎One bed. One cave.
▪︎Seriously, there are SO many things. Just go step into the Wood for yourself. I promise it's beyond worth it!
“I will give my heart to whomever I wish.”
“Wrong. You are mine, and I will rip the heart from your chest and hold it for eternity before I let you give it to someone else.”
🫠🫠🫠
This book get infinity stars from me!
May 11, 2025
This book was so good. I gobbled it up as fast as I could, but at the same time I wanted to draw it out and make it last forever.
The romance between Adelais and Terek is so good. They first meet when she is eight. They were never friends, but they were inevitable. The first time he meets her as a woman is passionate. That is until he realizes who she is. And then it becomes a slow burn, tension filled journey as he struggles with his deep desire for her alongside his desire to protect her.
The book cover and blurb both state that this is a dark retelling, but to me it didn’t seem all that dark. Terek is definitely a possessive asshole (in the best way), and there is some breath play, but that’s more kinky than it is dark. The darkest parts in the story are the abuse Adelais suffers her whole life. She is physically and emotionally abused to the point where dying would be the only escape for any other woman. So although abuse could be a big trigger warning for readers, I still say it’s not too dark as there is a lot we don’t see. It’s more talked about after the fact. Which is an amazing commentary on how most abuse is suffered alone and in silence.
Overall this story was very well written. There were almost no points where it dragged and everything had a meaning. All the characters were flushed out, including the side characters. We get to follow Adalais through her whole life, and the book still leaves you wanting more.
I can’t wait for the next book. I can’t wait for more of Terek and Adalais. I can’t wait to meet more creature and the mysterious Huka. I can’t wait for the Crimson Queen to be dethroned. And most of all, I can’t wait to journey back to Underland.
The romance between Adelais and Terek is so good. They first meet when she is eight. They were never friends, but they were inevitable. The first time he meets her as a woman is passionate. That is until he realizes who she is. And then it becomes a slow burn, tension filled journey as he struggles with his deep desire for her alongside his desire to protect her.
The book cover and blurb both state that this is a dark retelling, but to me it didn’t seem all that dark. Terek is definitely a possessive asshole (in the best way), and there is some breath play, but that’s more kinky than it is dark. The darkest parts in the story are the abuse Adelais suffers her whole life. She is physically and emotionally abused to the point where dying would be the only escape for any other woman. So although abuse could be a big trigger warning for readers, I still say it’s not too dark as there is a lot we don’t see. It’s more talked about after the fact. Which is an amazing commentary on how most abuse is suffered alone and in silence.
Overall this story was very well written. There were almost no points where it dragged and everything had a meaning. All the characters were flushed out, including the side characters. We get to follow Adalais through her whole life, and the book still leaves you wanting more.
I can’t wait for the next book. I can’t wait for more of Terek and Adalais. I can’t wait to meet more creature and the mysterious Huka. I can’t wait for the Crimson Queen to be dethroned. And most of all, I can’t wait to journey back to Underland.
January 10, 2024
Lilian T. James’ latest work, Into the Wonder Dark is a dark, steamy, intriguing take on the classic Alice in Wonderland. The first installment is filled with world building and the development of character relationships and sets up what is sure to be a thrilling second book.
The story begins when the main female character, Adelais, is a child and she discovers that she has the ability to travel to a mysterious wood in the Underland which serves as a purgatory of sorts for souls who are not truly ready to pass on. It’s there that she first meets Terek, a long time resident of the Underland, who desperately tries to convince her to remain in the world of the living. The story continues to follow Adelais through the trials of a life of abuse until she’s a twenty-seven year old woman who decides to permanently escape to the Underland. This is where the action truly picks up as she learns about the dangers of the realm and its Crimson Queen.
What I loved about the book:
A truly original, adult take on Alice in Wonderland
A female main character who discovers her inner strength
There are consequences to the main characters choices and actions that they are forced to face
The chemistry that develops between Adelais and Terek when she returns as an adult
The stunning use of the found family trope to develop supporting characters
The steamy bits
What I wasn’t crazy about:
The pacing at the beginning
While I appreciated that it built the backstory for Adelais and the history between the characters, it took a while to get to the main action.
Terek’s constant emotional boomerangs
I adore a tall, dark, and broody male in a book, but at times I was often frustrated by his massive mood swings
Ratings:
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall I really liked this book, especially the second part where the main plot really takes off. I can’t wait to see how the characters grow and develop in the second book and how Adelais and Terek’s story continues. I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes a dark, steamy variation of classic stories.
The story begins when the main female character, Adelais, is a child and she discovers that she has the ability to travel to a mysterious wood in the Underland which serves as a purgatory of sorts for souls who are not truly ready to pass on. It’s there that she first meets Terek, a long time resident of the Underland, who desperately tries to convince her to remain in the world of the living. The story continues to follow Adelais through the trials of a life of abuse until she’s a twenty-seven year old woman who decides to permanently escape to the Underland. This is where the action truly picks up as she learns about the dangers of the realm and its Crimson Queen.
What I loved about the book:
A truly original, adult take on Alice in Wonderland
A female main character who discovers her inner strength
There are consequences to the main characters choices and actions that they are forced to face
The chemistry that develops between Adelais and Terek when she returns as an adult
The stunning use of the found family trope to develop supporting characters
The steamy bits
What I wasn’t crazy about:
The pacing at the beginning
While I appreciated that it built the backstory for Adelais and the history between the characters, it took a while to get to the main action.
Terek’s constant emotional boomerangs
I adore a tall, dark, and broody male in a book, but at times I was often frustrated by his massive mood swings
Ratings:
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall I really liked this book, especially the second part where the main plot really takes off. I can’t wait to see how the characters grow and develop in the second book and how Adelais and Terek’s story continues. I would highly recommend this to anyone who likes a dark, steamy variation of classic stories.
March 7, 2025
This is honestly a 6.5 ⭐️ out of 5 book.
I love a fairy tale retelling and this one is so masterfully written. It is a long book but not one word is wasted. Every word, every sentence, every line, every paragraph, every page and every chapter counts towards building a beautiful story that grips you and doesn’t let go.
This books deals with some dark, heavy and deep themes in a beautiful and sensitive way. Part one is especially heartbreaking while masterfully written. The author somehow manages to spare our sensibilities but still make us feel the character’s turmoil.
Adelais is such a special FMC. We basically watch her grow and mature through the first part of the book. She goes through so much turmoil and abuse at the hands of those who should love her and yet somehow she always keeps her inner light, although somewhat dimmed at times.
She’s so strong and powerful but she doesn’t even realize it, her power manifesting in critical moments in the story but she remains unaware of what she can do. Even so one can see her gaining confidence as the story progresses.
And Terek! What an MMC! He is so angry and damaged. His experiences in Underland have shaped him into what he is and it seems like he barely remembers who he used to be. He only feels trapped, resentment and hates the situation he’s in.
Despite all that he just cannot stay away from Adelais, try as he might. He will do anything to protect her from the dangers of Underland, and most of all from himself.
In this book we’ve got and interesting world of the dead, special abilities, monsters, and almost sentient Wood, found family, characters with incredible depth, mystery, danger, action, pining, soulmates, spice and a cliffhanger ending.
I’m so excited to see where the next book takes us.
I love a fairy tale retelling and this one is so masterfully written. It is a long book but not one word is wasted. Every word, every sentence, every line, every paragraph, every page and every chapter counts towards building a beautiful story that grips you and doesn’t let go.
This books deals with some dark, heavy and deep themes in a beautiful and sensitive way. Part one is especially heartbreaking while masterfully written. The author somehow manages to spare our sensibilities but still make us feel the character’s turmoil.
Adelais is such a special FMC. We basically watch her grow and mature through the first part of the book. She goes through so much turmoil and abuse at the hands of those who should love her and yet somehow she always keeps her inner light, although somewhat dimmed at times.
She’s so strong and powerful but she doesn’t even realize it, her power manifesting in critical moments in the story but she remains unaware of what she can do. Even so one can see her gaining confidence as the story progresses.
And Terek! What an MMC! He is so angry and damaged. His experiences in Underland have shaped him into what he is and it seems like he barely remembers who he used to be. He only feels trapped, resentment and hates the situation he’s in.
Despite all that he just cannot stay away from Adelais, try as he might. He will do anything to protect her from the dangers of Underland, and most of all from himself.
In this book we’ve got and interesting world of the dead, special abilities, monsters, and almost sentient Wood, found family, characters with incredible depth, mystery, danger, action, pining, soulmates, spice and a cliffhanger ending.
I’m so excited to see where the next book takes us.
February 12, 2025
I like the book, for the most part. I liked the spin on Alice in wonderland with the underland and souls…. What I didn’t like so much was how the MMC treats the FMC. Like, he’s unnecessarily mean when he doesn’t need to be and a bit toxic. Which, I’m fine with some toxicity to a point. I’m just trying to wrap my head around a reason why the fmc loves him, aside from fact they are “heart mates” and feel a “pull” towards one another and are super attracted to eachother. I felt like he never really helps her with much, constantly pushes her away without any communication, and he degrades her for no reason instead of actually EXPLAINING things to her. He doesn’t try to help her grow or flourish and constantly puts her down any time she makes progress to bring the life back into herself. After finding out she had to be married to a vile piece a trash he turns around soon after to spit vile shit about her life upside and throws her trauma she endured from him back in her face.. like I feel like he’s just been continuously giving her more traumatic experiences with men. Idk, I hope book 2 redeems the MMC. I can see where’d he’d be coming from because of his past with the crimson queen but even after he acknowledged his feelings and knows it’s not going to happen again with Ace he still does NOT COMMUNICATE with her well and is still acting like a toxic piece of trash. Anyways, sorry. Rant over. The premise of the story is good and I will read book 2 in the hopes the MMC can be redeemed in some fashion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2025
4.5 Stars
This was a good, but long slow burn Alice in Wonderland retelling. It starts out following Adelais (Ace) starting at the age of 8 until 27 as she navigates growing up in an abusive household, and going to Underland to escape - but the only "people" that are in Underland are dead, and waiting to move on to the otherside. She found out that she can transport herself to Wonderland by accident one day, and went "home" whenever she could since it was the only place she felt safe. While there, she met Terek, and he would reluctantly watch over her and protect her while there. He was always an asshole to her, and tried to get her to leave and never come back each time, but she always saw him as a grumpy friend more than anything.
While this book was definitely a slow burn, it was a little too slow for me. Watching Ace grow up helped us to understand WHY she didn't want to go back home, wanted to stay in Underland so badly, but I wish that some of the scenes had been cut. When we finally did start to get more into the story, I wanted to throttle Terek. I wouldn't say there is a ton of miscommunication in this book, but he does hold back a lot of valuable information that could have helped Ace and not wind them up in some of the situations they got themselves into.
While this book does end on a small cliff hanger, I feel like I have more questions than answers at the end of the book. I am excited for the second book to come out though, and I hope that it will wrap everything up nicely.
This was a good, but long slow burn Alice in Wonderland retelling. It starts out following Adelais (Ace) starting at the age of 8 until 27 as she navigates growing up in an abusive household, and going to Underland to escape - but the only "people" that are in Underland are dead, and waiting to move on to the otherside. She found out that she can transport herself to Wonderland by accident one day, and went "home" whenever she could since it was the only place she felt safe. While there, she met Terek, and he would reluctantly watch over her and protect her while there. He was always an asshole to her, and tried to get her to leave and never come back each time, but she always saw him as a grumpy friend more than anything.
While this book was definitely a slow burn, it was a little too slow for me. Watching Ace grow up helped us to understand WHY she didn't want to go back home, wanted to stay in Underland so badly, but I wish that some of the scenes had been cut. When we finally did start to get more into the story, I wanted to throttle Terek. I wouldn't say there is a ton of miscommunication in this book, but he does hold back a lot of valuable information that could have helped Ace and not wind them up in some of the situations they got themselves into.
While this book does end on a small cliff hanger, I feel like I have more questions than answers at the end of the book. I am excited for the second book to come out though, and I hope that it will wrap everything up nicely.
November 29, 2024
Plot - 5/5🌟
Spice - 3/5🌶️
✔️Dark Fantasy Romance
✔️Slow Burn
✔️Broody Love Interest
✔️Dangerous Queen Villain
✔️Found Family
Okay, so Into the Wonder Dark by Lillian James? Absolute banger. Picture this: Adelais finds a dead rabbit (creepy vibes already) and boom—she’s in this purgatory-like place called the Underland. It’s spooky, gorgeous, and super dangerous, but honestly, it’s better than the life she’s running from. The whole vibe of the Underland is giving Tim Burton meets gothic fairytale, and I was obsessed.
Now, let’s talk about Terek, the long-time resident of this freaky forest. He’s broody, protective, and tries to convince Adelais not to be so quick to move on. Spoiler alert: their chemistry is chef’s kiss. It’s a slow-burn romance (the best kind, IMO) that’s equal parts emotional and steamy. The danger of the Crimson Queen lurking around just cranks the tension up to eleven. By the end, I was rooting for them so hard I might’ve cried a little.
If you’re into dark fantasy with a side of romance, this book will hit all the right spots. The writing is lush without being over-the-top, and the story just flows. Like, I didn’t even realize how much time had passed while I was reading it. Five stars, no question.
Spice - 3/5🌶️
✔️Dark Fantasy Romance
✔️Slow Burn
✔️Broody Love Interest
✔️Dangerous Queen Villain
✔️Found Family
Okay, so Into the Wonder Dark by Lillian James? Absolute banger. Picture this: Adelais finds a dead rabbit (creepy vibes already) and boom—she’s in this purgatory-like place called the Underland. It’s spooky, gorgeous, and super dangerous, but honestly, it’s better than the life she’s running from. The whole vibe of the Underland is giving Tim Burton meets gothic fairytale, and I was obsessed.
Now, let’s talk about Terek, the long-time resident of this freaky forest. He’s broody, protective, and tries to convince Adelais not to be so quick to move on. Spoiler alert: their chemistry is chef’s kiss. It’s a slow-burn romance (the best kind, IMO) that’s equal parts emotional and steamy. The danger of the Crimson Queen lurking around just cranks the tension up to eleven. By the end, I was rooting for them so hard I might’ve cried a little.
If you’re into dark fantasy with a side of romance, this book will hit all the right spots. The writing is lush without being over-the-top, and the story just flows. Like, I didn’t even realize how much time had passed while I was reading it. Five stars, no question.
January 6, 2024
World building ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character development ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the take on Wonderland this is. I love the similarities of the characters while still being unique to this take. The character development has me dizzy with madness just like Terek’s. *Chefs kiss* The world building is vast and I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface. And while the plot isn’t as heavy until the latter half, it’s still enough to keep you turning page from page wanting, no, NEEDING, more. Like I’m satisfied to the point I’m unsatisfied because I finished it and now I have to wait for more.
Can I just say that depth of the changes the characters go through is unnervingly brilliant. Especially Terek’s down spiraling in his sanity. Morally gray and possessiveness at its finest. And the slow burn!!!! I like a good slow burn but this!? This is what slow burn and denial of their feelings really should be.
Overall, the first book I’ve read by Lillian T James has me craving for more of hers while also scaring me. Like if I’m this distraught after finishing this with no more (at the moment) what will happen when I read her other books? But I’m willing to take that chance. 😈
Character development ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the take on Wonderland this is. I love the similarities of the characters while still being unique to this take. The character development has me dizzy with madness just like Terek’s. *Chefs kiss* The world building is vast and I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface. And while the plot isn’t as heavy until the latter half, it’s still enough to keep you turning page from page wanting, no, NEEDING, more. Like I’m satisfied to the point I’m unsatisfied because I finished it and now I have to wait for more.
Can I just say that depth of the changes the characters go through is unnervingly brilliant. Especially Terek’s down spiraling in his sanity. Morally gray and possessiveness at its finest. And the slow burn!!!! I like a good slow burn but this!? This is what slow burn and denial of their feelings really should be.
Overall, the first book I’ve read by Lillian T James has me craving for more of hers while also scaring me. Like if I’m this distraught after finishing this with no more (at the moment) what will happen when I read her other books? But I’m willing to take that chance. 😈
June 12, 2024
This was an intense book! Dark fantasy romance, Alice in Wonderland retelling! The Underland was so intriguing and there's so much more to be discovered. Adelais and Terek are very complex characters who have been dragged through hell & back. The tension was THICK between the two! Duma & Dex also make such loveable side characters.
I wasn’t unreasonable when it came to her. I wasn’t unfair or even insane. I was absolutely fucking unhinged.
-Who did this to you
-Magic
-Fairytale retelling
-Only one bed
-Fated Mates
-Touch her and die
The spice is SPICY and pretty aggressive.
“Sit on my fucking face and take your goddamn pleasure, Adelais. And don’t you dare think of me as you do unless it’s to scream about how good my tongue feels inside of you."
Also please check content warnings before reading if you are sensitive to particular things. The beginning of the book is a bit extra rough.
Men’s minds are like giant caverns filled with nothing but echoes of their own making. They change them willy-nilly based on whichever echo is the loudest that day.
I wasn’t unreasonable when it came to her. I wasn’t unfair or even insane. I was absolutely fucking unhinged.
-Who did this to you
-Magic
-Fairytale retelling
-Only one bed
-Fated Mates
-Touch her and die
The spice is SPICY and pretty aggressive.
“Sit on my fucking face and take your goddamn pleasure, Adelais. And don’t you dare think of me as you do unless it’s to scream about how good my tongue feels inside of you."
Also please check content warnings before reading if you are sensitive to particular things. The beginning of the book is a bit extra rough.
Men’s minds are like giant caverns filled with nothing but echoes of their own making. They change them willy-nilly based on whichever echo is the loudest that day.
January 7, 2024
Dnf at 42%. This book is almost 700 pages long. If I’m going down that rabbit hole (pun certainly intended), I need to be fully invested and the writing and plot NEEDS to be impeccable. Sadly this was not the case.
Part one was already too long and could have been condensed into two chapters. You have to read through several chapters of her being a petulant child avoiding her tea parties and other social functions.
Part two could have been solid. A seven year time jump from the last chapter in part one. And mfc still acting like a child. (Surprise) The slow burn is agonizingly slow that you just lose interest very fast. The dialogue between the two characters was so dry, it was suffering.
And finally. This is one of those books when you have no idea when and where in space and time this book is set. At first, I overlooked it because I was interested to see it play out. But there were too many modern phrasing that made me turn away and I couldn’t be bothered to continue this journey.
Part one was already too long and could have been condensed into two chapters. You have to read through several chapters of her being a petulant child avoiding her tea parties and other social functions.
Part two could have been solid. A seven year time jump from the last chapter in part one. And mfc still acting like a child. (Surprise) The slow burn is agonizingly slow that you just lose interest very fast. The dialogue between the two characters was so dry, it was suffering.
And finally. This is one of those books when you have no idea when and where in space and time this book is set. At first, I overlooked it because I was interested to see it play out. But there were too many modern phrasing that made me turn away and I couldn’t be bothered to continue this journey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2024
Why did it have to be so long?
The first part of this book was like sludging through thick trauma. I understand it was to give the reader insight as to why Ace was who she is but it could have been so much less.
At the 60% mark I was really getting into it and was like FINALLY!!! I'm sad it took so long for me to be invested but I don't regret anything.
Hits:
-Overall story & concept
-The creatures
-Tweeds :)
Misses:
-Using a trope to build a relationship
-Miscommunication / withholding info to further a plot (especially when the book is already so long)
Personally...... Terek didn't really do it for me. I think it would have been interesting to see another main love interest to come into play after Ace returned later in age. There wasn't really any building of their relationship when she was older, it just kind of was thrown in under the trope.
Will I read the next book? Yes, if it isn't as long as this one.
As others have mentioned, please read the content warnings. This books deals with very tough topics.
The first part of this book was like sludging through thick trauma. I understand it was to give the reader insight as to why Ace was who she is but it could have been so much less.
At the 60% mark I was really getting into it and was like FINALLY!!! I'm sad it took so long for me to be invested but I don't regret anything.
Hits:
-Overall story & concept
-The creatures
-Tweeds :)
Misses:
-Using a trope to build a relationship
-Miscommunication / withholding info to further a plot (especially when the book is already so long)
Personally...... Terek didn't really do it for me. I think it would have been interesting to see another main love interest to come into play after Ace returned later in age. There wasn't really any building of their relationship when she was older, it just kind of was thrown in under the trope.
Will I read the next book? Yes, if it isn't as long as this one.
As others have mentioned, please read the content warnings. This books deals with very tough topics.
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