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Cry Madness
"I’d rather live a thousand years in a world where you ignore me than one second in a world without you.” —Maddox Hathorne
THEY'RE ALL MAD HERE
Maddox Hathorne is everything Alice Knightly doesn’t need, yet he’s everything she wants. At his best, he’s eccentric—at his worst, he’s psychotic. She’s also the only person in Wonderland who’s not afraid of him, and on the night their friendship crosses the line into romance, her world shatters.
Grief-stricken, Alice tries to escape the pain. She fails and flees Wonderland. Danger guides her back home, leaving her trapped between a past she can’t outrun and a treacherous road leading to an unpredictable future.
A predator saturated in sin, Maddox has his sights set on her all over again. This time, when they spiral down a rabbit hole of depravity, there’s more than the promise of ecstasy waiting for them at the bottom.
*CRY MADNESS is a complete standalone reimagining of Alice in Wonderland. This sizzling Dark Academia Romance features an antihero who pushes the boundaries of what it means to be ‘morally gray’ and a heroine fierce enough to tame the Mad Hatter.
THEY'RE ALL MAD HERE
Maddox Hathorne is everything Alice Knightly doesn’t need, yet he’s everything she wants. At his best, he’s eccentric—at his worst, he’s psychotic. She’s also the only person in Wonderland who’s not afraid of him, and on the night their friendship crosses the line into romance, her world shatters.
Grief-stricken, Alice tries to escape the pain. She fails and flees Wonderland. Danger guides her back home, leaving her trapped between a past she can’t outrun and a treacherous road leading to an unpredictable future.
A predator saturated in sin, Maddox has his sights set on her all over again. This time, when they spiral down a rabbit hole of depravity, there’s more than the promise of ecstasy waiting for them at the bottom.
*CRY MADNESS is a complete standalone reimagining of Alice in Wonderland. This sizzling Dark Academia Romance features an antihero who pushes the boundaries of what it means to be ‘morally gray’ and a heroine fierce enough to tame the Mad Hatter.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2025
20 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Renee Rocco
16 books272 followersRenee has always loved villains more than heroes, and although ‘spooky season’ is her time to shine, she enjoys lazy summer days spent poolside listening to podcasts. When not dreaming up ways to torment the characters who inhabit her mind, she’s a working mom who lives near the infamous Jersey Shore.
Find Renee around the internet:
Website: www.reneerocco.com
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Find Renee around the internet:
Website: www.reneerocco.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/reneeroccoauthor/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@reneeroccoauthor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorreneerocco
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 6, 2025
3.5 stars
A dark romance with a fairytale twist, this is a sexy spin on Alice in Wonderland, and I really enjoyed this book!
Maddox and Alice grew up together – she as the privileged and beloved daughter of a wealthy family, and he an orphaned misfit. Their differences didn’t matter though, and they fell in love and were it for each other. But they are torn apart by tragedy and, lost in grief, Alice leaves town. She returns three years later and Maddox knows this is his chance to get his girl.
Maddox is everything we love in an antihero. He’s broody and dangerous, smart and sarcastic, he’s slightly unhinged but completely soft for his girl.
It’s not an easy reunion. Alice is still trying to deal with her trauma, and she tries to keep her distance, but Maddox is determined, he’s shameless, and he’s unapologetically smitten. He teases and flirts, they bicker and banter, and their chemistry is still wild and undeniable, and the anticipation is so, so good!
The romance is sexy and all consuming, and surprisingly swoony, and I loved watching these two come back together.
It’s a short read and the story moves quickly, but I was still easily sucked in. The dark romance elements bring drama and violence along the way, but I was here for the love story, and it did not disappoint. Other characters are introduced, most with their own unique fairy tale twists, and I’m hoping there will be more books in this world.
I really enjoyed this one.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
A dark romance with a fairytale twist, this is a sexy spin on Alice in Wonderland, and I really enjoyed this book!
Maddox and Alice grew up together – she as the privileged and beloved daughter of a wealthy family, and he an orphaned misfit. Their differences didn’t matter though, and they fell in love and were it for each other. But they are torn apart by tragedy and, lost in grief, Alice leaves town. She returns three years later and Maddox knows this is his chance to get his girl.
Maddox is everything we love in an antihero. He’s broody and dangerous, smart and sarcastic, he’s slightly unhinged but completely soft for his girl.
“I’d rather endure a thousand lifetimes in a world where you ignore me than spend even one letting second in a world without you.”
It’s not an easy reunion. Alice is still trying to deal with her trauma, and she tries to keep her distance, but Maddox is determined, he’s shameless, and he’s unapologetically smitten. He teases and flirts, they bicker and banter, and their chemistry is still wild and undeniable, and the anticipation is so, so good!
“I don’t want just a kiss.”
If this woman asked me for every drop of blood from my veins, I’d bleed dry for her. “What do you want, Alice?”
“You, Maddox.” She looks down at me, tears in her eyes. “I want you.”
“You have me. You’ve always had me.”
The romance is sexy and all consuming, and surprisingly swoony, and I loved watching these two come back together.
“Sweetheart, I’ll take you any way I can get you, as long as you’re mine.”
It’s a short read and the story moves quickly, but I was still easily sucked in. The dark romance elements bring drama and violence along the way, but I was here for the love story, and it did not disappoint. Other characters are introduced, most with their own unique fairy tale twists, and I’m hoping there will be more books in this world.
I really enjoyed this one.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
October 16, 2025
Love a classic story getting a fresh breath of life with a retelling? Well, Alice in Wonderland gets a dark contemporary romance twist. When we say dark, we mean dark. Brace yourself for chaos, drama, romance, steamy and a surprise twist toward the end.
Make sure you read the warnings for this book because there is some heavy material in this book. Told from dual first person POV this story alternates between Alice and Maddox. Alice’s chapters honestly aren’t as interesting as Maddox’s. It takes time for Alice to become more interesting because it feels like she’s not ready to really reveal who she really is as a person. She’s hiding from herself and from her feelings, but when she stops...it’s refreshing.
Maddox is dark, twisted and unapologetic. We enjoyed his chapters the most despite him essentially bullying people from time to time. But honestly, he’s not the only one.
This book is interesting, but for us, it wasn’t a page-turner. It has a decent amount of elements that let you know it’s an Alice in Wonderland retelling, so we think that most readers will ultimately appreciate that.
Make sure you read the warnings for this book because there is some heavy material in this book. Told from dual first person POV this story alternates between Alice and Maddox. Alice’s chapters honestly aren’t as interesting as Maddox’s. It takes time for Alice to become more interesting because it feels like she’s not ready to really reveal who she really is as a person. She’s hiding from herself and from her feelings, but when she stops...it’s refreshing.
Maddox is dark, twisted and unapologetic. We enjoyed his chapters the most despite him essentially bullying people from time to time. But honestly, he’s not the only one.
This book is interesting, but for us, it wasn’t a page-turner. It has a decent amount of elements that let you know it’s an Alice in Wonderland retelling, so we think that most readers will ultimately appreciate that.
November 3, 2025
Aahhhh I want more!!! lol this was such a good retelling of Alice in Wonderland!!! Oh my gosh I couldn’t get enough & couldn’t put this book down!!! Aahhhh sooooo soooo good!!! Must freak’n read!!! 🩵🖤
October 8, 2025
solid story, great premise, would have enjoyed some additional length, more scenes to spend time with the characters, but the story was great. would love to see march's story.
October 21, 2025
Maddox and Alice grew up together – she as the privileged and beloved daughter of a wealthy family, and he an orphaned misfit. Their differences didn’t matter though, and they fell in love and were it for each other. But they are torn apart by tragedy and, lost in grief, Alice fled Wonderland after her father’s death, unable to cope with her grief and hoping that studying art would help her heal. However, her return, fleeing from a stalker, throws her right back into the middle of madness and into Maddox’s path.
Maddox is everything we love in an antihero. He’s broody and dangerous, smart and sarcastic, he’s slightly unhinged but completely soft for his girl. It’s not an easy reunion. Alice is still trying to deal with her trauma, and she tries to keep her distance, but Maddox is determined, he’s shameless, and he’s unapologetically smitten. He teases and flirts, they bicker and banter, and their chemistry is still wild and undeniable, and the anticipation is so, so good!
“We are all mad here” has a certain ring to this book. The twists and elements of Alice in Wonderland make it very enjoyable, with a slight feel of a fairy tale despite its darkness. Mad is more of a villain than a hero, but the whole story is deeply in the grey zone of morality, and definitely has a certain allure.
It’s a short read and the story moves quickly, but I was still easily sucked in. The dark romance elements bring drama and violence along the way, but I was here for the love story, and it did not disappoint. Other characters are introduced, most with their own unique fairy tale twists, and I’m hoping there will be more books in this world.
Maddox is everything we love in an antihero. He’s broody and dangerous, smart and sarcastic, he’s slightly unhinged but completely soft for his girl. It’s not an easy reunion. Alice is still trying to deal with her trauma, and she tries to keep her distance, but Maddox is determined, he’s shameless, and he’s unapologetically smitten. He teases and flirts, they bicker and banter, and their chemistry is still wild and undeniable, and the anticipation is so, so good!
“We are all mad here” has a certain ring to this book. The twists and elements of Alice in Wonderland make it very enjoyable, with a slight feel of a fairy tale despite its darkness. Mad is more of a villain than a hero, but the whole story is deeply in the grey zone of morality, and definitely has a certain allure.
It’s a short read and the story moves quickly, but I was still easily sucked in. The dark romance elements bring drama and violence along the way, but I was here for the love story, and it did not disappoint. Other characters are introduced, most with their own unique fairy tale twists, and I’m hoping there will be more books in this world.
October 20, 2025
Cry Madness by Renee Rocco is a powerful and evocative exploration of emotional turmoil and the complexities of human relationships. The novel centers around a protagonist whose life spirals into chaos following a series of traumatic events, prompting a journey of self-discovery and healing.
Rocco’s writing is both lyrical and poignant, creating a vivid atmosphere that immerses readers in the protagonist's inner world. The themes of grief, mental health, and resilience are handled with sensitivity and depth, inviting readers to empathize with the struggles faced by the characters. The author’s ability to articulate the nuances of pain and recovery is commendable, making the emotional weight of the story resonate strongly.
The character development is particularly noteworthy; each figure in the narrative is crafted with care, showcasing their vulnerabilities and strengths. The relationships explored in the book are authentic and layered, reflecting real-life complexities that many readers will find relatable. Rocco captures the essence of human connections beautifully, whether they be supportive or fraught with tension. The story delves into the impact of mental health on both the individual and those around them, sparking important conversations about empathy and understanding. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate character-driven stories that tackle meaningful subjects with grace and authenticity.
Rocco’s writing is both lyrical and poignant, creating a vivid atmosphere that immerses readers in the protagonist's inner world. The themes of grief, mental health, and resilience are handled with sensitivity and depth, inviting readers to empathize with the struggles faced by the characters. The author’s ability to articulate the nuances of pain and recovery is commendable, making the emotional weight of the story resonate strongly.
The character development is particularly noteworthy; each figure in the narrative is crafted with care, showcasing their vulnerabilities and strengths. The relationships explored in the book are authentic and layered, reflecting real-life complexities that many readers will find relatable. Rocco captures the essence of human connections beautifully, whether they be supportive or fraught with tension. The story delves into the impact of mental health on both the individual and those around them, sparking important conversations about empathy and understanding. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate character-driven stories that tackle meaningful subjects with grace and authenticity.
October 12, 2025
We are all mad here, some definitely more than others!
Alice and Maddox grew up together and they just fit together, belong together. Maddox doesn't care about another person in existence except Alice. Alice adores Maddox and all his crazy and dangerous sides, and accepts him as he is and knowing she will always be safe with him despite it.
Tragedy befalls Alice and the loss she feels has her fleeing Wonderland to go to school abroad to try to separate herself from overwhelming, all consuming pain to which Maddox is a reminder.
Maddox, an orphan, has been groomed his entire life and is a thug for the 'Boss' of Wonderland and relishes his work and would easily succumb to the darkness of it, letting it fill the void from the absence of Alice. She is the only thing, that keeps him from becoming something truly unredeemable.
Cry Madness is dark romantasy reimagining of Alice in Wonderland set in a modern world that is much darker than the Wonderland you are familiar with, trigger warnings with violence, torture and stalking.
Despite the dark bits, I quite enjoyed this story. The whole idea of someone loving you so deeply that they will let nothing harm you, making sure you and anyone who comes between you both know it, is quite intriguing and alluring and a bit terrifying, knowing the danger that may lurk around the corner.
Alice and Maddox grew up together and they just fit together, belong together. Maddox doesn't care about another person in existence except Alice. Alice adores Maddox and all his crazy and dangerous sides, and accepts him as he is and knowing she will always be safe with him despite it.
Tragedy befalls Alice and the loss she feels has her fleeing Wonderland to go to school abroad to try to separate herself from overwhelming, all consuming pain to which Maddox is a reminder.
Maddox, an orphan, has been groomed his entire life and is a thug for the 'Boss' of Wonderland and relishes his work and would easily succumb to the darkness of it, letting it fill the void from the absence of Alice. She is the only thing, that keeps him from becoming something truly unredeemable.
Cry Madness is dark romantasy reimagining of Alice in Wonderland set in a modern world that is much darker than the Wonderland you are familiar with, trigger warnings with violence, torture and stalking.
Despite the dark bits, I quite enjoyed this story. The whole idea of someone loving you so deeply that they will let nothing harm you, making sure you and anyone who comes between you both know it, is quite intriguing and alluring and a bit terrifying, knowing the danger that may lurk around the corner.
October 5, 2025
“You’re perfectly imperfect exactly as you are.”
♟️Cry Madness by Renee Rocco ♟️
Cry Madness is a dark academia romance by Renee Rocco. This standalone book is a dark retelling of Alice on Wonderland with an antihero who pushes the boundaries of what it means to be ‘morally gray’ and a heroine fierce enough to tame the Mad Hatter.
“Yeah, I’m yours. You can do whatever you want to me, Alice.”
I absolutely love anything that Renee writes and I especially love fairytale retellings. So when this hit my inbox I was ready for an adventure! I really enjoyed the modern twists on the classic story and I loved seeing the wonderland characters in a new light.
“I’ve loved you all my life, Malice.”
A morally grey tatted Mad Hatter who literally unalives someone for his Alice, eat your heart out 😍 and the sweet Alice who is fierce and protective over the people she loves even after everything that she's been through. I absolutely loved these MCs but I also loved the side characters, even Roman! Fingers crossed we get a book for some of the others!
'My home, my peace, and finally, my salvation.'
Great modernization of a classic tale, plot twists that will keep you hooked, complex morally grey characters and spice that will have you blushing! 100% recommend
♟️Friends-to-Lovers
♟️He Falls First/Hardest
♟️Slow Burn
♟️Duel POV
♟️ Pierced MC
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
♟️Cry Madness by Renee Rocco ♟️
Cry Madness is a dark academia romance by Renee Rocco. This standalone book is a dark retelling of Alice on Wonderland with an antihero who pushes the boundaries of what it means to be ‘morally gray’ and a heroine fierce enough to tame the Mad Hatter.
“Yeah, I’m yours. You can do whatever you want to me, Alice.”
I absolutely love anything that Renee writes and I especially love fairytale retellings. So when this hit my inbox I was ready for an adventure! I really enjoyed the modern twists on the classic story and I loved seeing the wonderland characters in a new light.
“I’ve loved you all my life, Malice.”
A morally grey tatted Mad Hatter who literally unalives someone for his Alice, eat your heart out 😍 and the sweet Alice who is fierce and protective over the people she loves even after everything that she's been through. I absolutely loved these MCs but I also loved the side characters, even Roman! Fingers crossed we get a book for some of the others!
'My home, my peace, and finally, my salvation.'
Great modernization of a classic tale, plot twists that will keep you hooked, complex morally grey characters and spice that will have you blushing! 100% recommend
♟️Friends-to-Lovers
♟️He Falls First/Hardest
♟️Slow Burn
♟️Duel POV
♟️ Pierced MC
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
October 5, 2025
Cry Madness is a dark and intense romance novel retelling of Alice in Wonderland but is modern and grown-up. This book is a standalone story, so you don't need to read anything else first to understand the plot.
The story focuses on Alice Knightly and Maddox Hathorne. They live in "Wonderland," but it isn't magical, it's dark and a little twisted. Maddox is a little crazy and troubled, but his love for his best friend Alice is long established and unwavering. The book describes him as 'eccentric at his best and psychotic at his worst. And it's all true, but there is also a softer side to him that only Alice sees.
Their close friendship turns into a deep romance, but a life-shattering event causes Alice to flee from the pain and run away from Wonderland. Danger eventually brings her back. Maddox—who is fiercely obsessed and possesses Alice—is focused on getting her back.
The friends of Alice & Maddox play a supporting role in their second-chance love story, along with a few who don't want to see them together at all, even going to some extreme lengths to keep them apart.
This book is a dark romance. You need to read the TW's as there are some graphic descriptions in the book.
The story focuses on Alice Knightly and Maddox Hathorne. They live in "Wonderland," but it isn't magical, it's dark and a little twisted. Maddox is a little crazy and troubled, but his love for his best friend Alice is long established and unwavering. The book describes him as 'eccentric at his best and psychotic at his worst. And it's all true, but there is also a softer side to him that only Alice sees.
Their close friendship turns into a deep romance, but a life-shattering event causes Alice to flee from the pain and run away from Wonderland. Danger eventually brings her back. Maddox—who is fiercely obsessed and possesses Alice—is focused on getting her back.
The friends of Alice & Maddox play a supporting role in their second-chance love story, along with a few who don't want to see them together at all, even going to some extreme lengths to keep them apart.
This book is a dark romance. You need to read the TW's as there are some graphic descriptions in the book.
October 20, 2025
Renee absolutely slays it with this slow burn retelling of Alice in Wonderland. As soon as I started reading, I was hooked. I could not stop reading. I was invested in all the moments with Alice and Maddox.
"I mess up a lot, Alice, and I'm no Prince Charming, but I always strive to be my best self. For You. Only for you."
After Alice's accident, Maddox had to remind Alice she was meant for him. Maddox and Alice's story is a bumpy one. There are others that don't want them together. They have to navigate "The Red Queen" among others.
"She's always been mine.
She will always be mine."
Maddox wants Alice to know that he never stopped loving her. That is why, even if it kills him, he will wait until the right moment to show Alice, she is his.
"I'd never let you fall alone."
OMG. I love how all of the characters from the classic story were remixed. I have read many retellings of this story, but this book felt refreshing. There was even a twist added into the story. I could feel the story love connection that Maddox and Alice shared. If you love your fairy tales with a twist, then you will love Cry Madness by Renee Rocco!
"I mess up a lot, Alice, and I'm no Prince Charming, but I always strive to be my best self. For You. Only for you."
After Alice's accident, Maddox had to remind Alice she was meant for him. Maddox and Alice's story is a bumpy one. There are others that don't want them together. They have to navigate "The Red Queen" among others.
"She's always been mine.
She will always be mine."
Maddox wants Alice to know that he never stopped loving her. That is why, even if it kills him, he will wait until the right moment to show Alice, she is his.
"I'd never let you fall alone."
OMG. I love how all of the characters from the classic story were remixed. I have read many retellings of this story, but this book felt refreshing. There was even a twist added into the story. I could feel the story love connection that Maddox and Alice shared. If you love your fairy tales with a twist, then you will love Cry Madness by Renee Rocco!
September 26, 2025
I struggled with rating this book, because I loved a lot of the elements within this storyline, but somehow didn’t entirely feel how they were supposed to work together. It’s like some of the teeny tiny connections between them were missing. As a result, I missed depth to some of the plot points, and wondered if a few of them were even necessary to get the story across…
For example, I love a troubled male character with a tragic past and a “the world could burn as long as you are happy” personality. I love Maddox and I believe his character building is on point, but the plot points involving the man who made him fall a little flat. There are other side characters who play a role in the lives of Maddox and Alice, but their stories all have some tiny holes in it for me. As a result, even though I really loved the ending and the twists and turns that came with it, the feeling that stuck with me was “but now I still don’t know more about…”
For example, I love a troubled male character with a tragic past and a “the world could burn as long as you are happy” personality. I love Maddox and I believe his character building is on point, but the plot points involving the man who made him fall a little flat. There are other side characters who play a role in the lives of Maddox and Alice, but their stories all have some tiny holes in it for me. As a result, even though I really loved the ending and the twists and turns that came with it, the feeling that stuck with me was “but now I still don’t know more about…”
October 16, 2025
Welcome to the contemporary version of an Alice in Wonderland retelling. First off, I just want to say how amazingly the author did with this. I couldn't get enough of it and was sad when I got to the last page. Cry Madness focuses on Alice Knightly and Maddox Hathorne. They both live in a place called Wonderland, but it isn't the Wonderland you're thinking of, as it feels like it's set in more of the real world.
The two start as friends, but it becomes more as they get older, until a devastating event happens in Alice's life, and she chooses to cut herself off from everyone and run away. But, even with her gone, Maddox can't stop thinking about his love.
This was a fantastic retelling, and I hope to read more from this author because, as I said, I loved every minute of it. It's dark, but the connection between Alice and Maddox is deep and even distance can't mess with that sort of love, even if one of the characters tries to deny it.
The two start as friends, but it becomes more as they get older, until a devastating event happens in Alice's life, and she chooses to cut herself off from everyone and run away. But, even with her gone, Maddox can't stop thinking about his love.
This was a fantastic retelling, and I hope to read more from this author because, as I said, I loved every minute of it. It's dark, but the connection between Alice and Maddox is deep and even distance can't mess with that sort of love, even if one of the characters tries to deny it.
October 12, 2025
Let me start by saying I love a fairytale retelling with an adult twist. This one did not disappoint. I could not put it down, it had me completely engrossed. The way details from the original story were integrated into the retelling was perfect. I fell in love with Maddox! His patience and how he always seemed to know when to push and when to hold back according to what Alice needed was beautiful and a testament to how much he really loved her despite his not so caring way of dealing with other people. Alice was his one and only person and he took care of her fiercely. They were both damaged by traumatic childhoods and family ties, and their journey to a happily ever after was bumpy but so worth it. I would definitely read this again and recommend it to anyone that likes spicy, grown up fairytales with over the top MMC's.
September 22, 2025
Omg I absolutely devoured this book, aw why does work have to get in our way 😂 I love Alice & Wonderland & this dark spin was right up my street.
I loved it from start to finish, I alway did wonder about Alice & the hatter being in a relationship & how it would work & this story did it for me. I loved both main characters.
Alice & Maddox have barely started their relationship when Alice suffers a loss which drives her away from Wonderland, 3yrs later & she returns only this time Maddox isn’t letting her leave. Alice didn’t return because she wanted to, something had drove her back & once Maddox find this out nothing can get in his way.
I really did enjoy this world & I would definitely like to read the side characters stories, if they were to come out.
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved it from start to finish, I alway did wonder about Alice & the hatter being in a relationship & how it would work & this story did it for me. I loved both main characters.
Alice & Maddox have barely started their relationship when Alice suffers a loss which drives her away from Wonderland, 3yrs later & she returns only this time Maddox isn’t letting her leave. Alice didn’t return because she wanted to, something had drove her back & once Maddox find this out nothing can get in his way.
I really did enjoy this world & I would definitely like to read the side characters stories, if they were to come out.
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 22, 2025
Cry Madness is the first book by Renee Rocco I have read. Let me say I absolutely loved this story. We have Alice and the Mad Hatter that have this amazing relationship that has you feeling the chemistry jump off the page. Their characters have these amazing personalities. I loved Maddox’s personality. He has that insane but highly intelligent personality that just draws you in from the very beginning. Alice has this bit of darkness that flows through the story. I loved the side characters and they were intertwined in the story. It is extremely well written and developed. It pulled me in and didn’t let go. I absolutely had to find out what happens in the story. There are some possible triggers but they are beautifully written. This is absolutely a fantastic read.
October 6, 2025
Awesomeness
Firstly, I have a deep appreciation for a well-crafted Alice and Wonderland story. I was particularly drawn to the complex relationship between Maddox and Alice. Although Maddox was somewhat unhinged, his affection and devotion to Alice were undeniable. I admired his unwavering commitment to her. Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer is an understatement to be so meserable with your on existence to go out your way to harm someone is diabolical behavior. I can't give too much away, or I'll spill the beans. Just know when u pick this up, it won't disappoint. This narrative is engaging and leaves the reader eager for more. I can't wait for her next book
Firstly, I have a deep appreciation for a well-crafted Alice and Wonderland story. I was particularly drawn to the complex relationship between Maddox and Alice. Although Maddox was somewhat unhinged, his affection and devotion to Alice were undeniable. I admired his unwavering commitment to her. Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer is an understatement to be so meserable with your on existence to go out your way to harm someone is diabolical behavior. I can't give too much away, or I'll spill the beans. Just know when u pick this up, it won't disappoint. This narrative is engaging and leaves the reader eager for more. I can't wait for her next book
October 7, 2025
Insanely Amazing!!! Once I heard the author was going to do a twist of the Mad Hatter and Alice I have been beyond excited and this story did NOT disappoint. Twisted passion that takes you on an epic journey of pure debauchery and beautiful madness, this story was one that you will devour and it will take your heart from you while you fall in love with all that is Maddox. Maddox really reminded me of my favorite Master of Mayhem, Jester, with his manic overly energetic self and fierce protectiveness over what was his, yet he was unique in his own ways as well. Alice, my heart hurt for her and her grief she didn’t think there was a way over but once she knew and understood she had those that love her she was made whole again. I truly loved loved loved this story and hope we get March and Ivory’s next.
October 10, 2025
Cry Madness was an incredible dark fairytale retelling of Alice in Wonderland focusing on Alice and the Mad Hatter and I loved every moment of it! "I’d rather live a thousand years in a world where you ignore me than one second in a world without you." Maddox Hathorne was so swoonworthy! He may be mad, but Alice Knightly takes things to a whole new level. After leaving Wonderland for a time only to return to find Maddox needing her more than ever, Alice returns to an even darker Wonderland. However, the twists and turns just keeping getting twistier in this tale with danger around every corner, so it will take a lot more of chaos before the two can have their HEA. Love love LOVE this retelling!
October 11, 2025
Delightfully mad
Alice fled Wonderland when her father died, unable to cope with her grief and hoping that studying art would help her heal. Coming back though, fleeing from a stalker, throws her right back in the middle of maddness.. and into Maddox' path.
"We are all mad here" has a certain ring in this book. The twists and elements of Alice in Wonderland make the book very enjoyable and with a slight feel of a fairytile despite its darkness. Mad is more a villain than a hero, but the whole story is deep in the grey zone of morality, and definitely has certain allure. I loved seeing Alice resurfacing after everything she went through, being merciful and good-hearted until the very end.
Alice fled Wonderland when her father died, unable to cope with her grief and hoping that studying art would help her heal. Coming back though, fleeing from a stalker, throws her right back in the middle of maddness.. and into Maddox' path.
"We are all mad here" has a certain ring in this book. The twists and elements of Alice in Wonderland make the book very enjoyable and with a slight feel of a fairytile despite its darkness. Mad is more a villain than a hero, but the whole story is deep in the grey zone of morality, and definitely has certain allure. I loved seeing Alice resurfacing after everything she went through, being merciful and good-hearted until the very end.
October 20, 2025
This was a totally different take on Alice in Wonderland and I have read a few retellings. This one does not take place after being lost or anything like that which I really liked.
I was able to pick up on several of the characters and who they should be. Though with some, not so much. I fully enjoyed the level of insanity of Maddox, I just loved his brand of crazy the entire story. For Maddox, Alice was his, plain and simple. He waited for her and he pretty much immediately started to antagonize her upon her return to Wonderland.
The mental health aspect that the original felt like was actually portrayed in this retelling. We see a lot of the issues that come about and how our crew handles them. This is one of my more favorite retellings, the author did a really good job.
I was able to pick up on several of the characters and who they should be. Though with some, not so much. I fully enjoyed the level of insanity of Maddox, I just loved his brand of crazy the entire story. For Maddox, Alice was his, plain and simple. He waited for her and he pretty much immediately started to antagonize her upon her return to Wonderland.
The mental health aspect that the original felt like was actually portrayed in this retelling. We see a lot of the issues that come about and how our crew handles them. This is one of my more favorite retellings, the author did a really good job.
October 7, 2025
Omggg, I love an Alice in Wonderland retelling, this one felt so good, chaotic, and wildly addictive. Maddox was perfect, dangerous and devoted, and I loved how his obsession with Alice toed that thin line between love and madness. Their chemistry was intense, their banter had me grinning. The blend of modern setting and twisted Wonderland vibes worked so well, and I never knew what was coming next.
It’s a quick read but full of tension, emotion, and a little spice. I adored how the side characters added layers to the world, especially with their fairy tale-inspired twists. The ending left me desperate for more, and I’m seriously hoping we’ll see Ivory and March next.
It’s a quick read but full of tension, emotion, and a little spice. I adored how the side characters added layers to the world, especially with their fairy tale-inspired twists. The ending left me desperate for more, and I’m seriously hoping we’ll see Ivory and March next.
October 7, 2025
Cry Madness is a contemporary retelling of Alice In Wonderland by Renee Rocco. Alice has had feelings for Maddox almost her whole life, but when her father passes she runs. When she's forced to return Maddox refuses to give her up again.
With so many things pushing them apart will they find a way back to each other?
This retelling has some dark tones. Maddox is definitely morally gray and mad, but quite the delicious bad boy that would do anything for Alice. There are surprises, spice, stalking, betrayals, and a whole lot more. If you enjoy themes of friends to lovers, slow burn, Academia, touch her an die vibes, with a slow slow burn then this is a must-read for you.
With so many things pushing them apart will they find a way back to each other?
This retelling has some dark tones. Maddox is definitely morally gray and mad, but quite the delicious bad boy that would do anything for Alice. There are surprises, spice, stalking, betrayals, and a whole lot more. If you enjoy themes of friends to lovers, slow burn, Academia, touch her an die vibes, with a slow slow burn then this is a must-read for you.
October 7, 2025
As soon as I saw this was inspired by Alice in Wonderland, I was super excited! Such a fun story with so many cool things to draw inspiration from! Plus, I’m so there for romance with a morally gray hero! Woo, boy! Loved the dynamic between Maddox and Alice; fun banter, and they have that touching, sweet and passionate romance! Their story has the second chance scenario going on; they had a deep love, but something happened that made Alice leave. She’s back after a few years away, and Maddox is going to do everything he can to get Alice back into his life. An entertaining romance with a dash of danger. Enjoyed it!
October 7, 2025
Let me start by saying that I love Alice in Wonderland retellings. I have read several retellings and this one did not disappoint. This one starts a bit differently. Alice doesn't literally go down the rabbit hole. She lives there to begin with. It is a bit on the darker side but that's what made the story so unique. And I thought Maddox was the unhinged one at first but I think Alice could give him a run for his money. I was so hooked. I could not put it down. I hope that there will be more stories in this world. Thank you for feeding my Alice in Wonderland addiction with such a great book.
October 12, 2025
Cry Madness is a Dark Acedemia Romance -I am a fiend for Alice and Wonderland retellings and love a good dark tale so I was super excited for this book. I will start with overall I enjoyed the story. The core plot was fantastic and the world Renee Rocco created for it was intriguing. But the execuation fell a little flat for me -the plot points seemed a little discountected, characters main & side lacked depth. Maybe its because I am such a A&W retelling fan but I was left wanting more. Why did I give it 4 stars -because it has oooodles of potential. Take out some of the fluff that doesnt add to the story, give some depth and it's a 5 star for sure. Looking forward to more by this Author.
October 13, 2025
Maddox’s character is inspired and i loved him - he is totally unhinged especially in his protection of his Malice whether she wants him or not! He is brought to life so vibrantly by the author that it almost overshadows teh storey in places but in such a good way! Alice is his one and only even though she left him, he waited - now her just needs to convince her that he is her one and only!
Alice ran from everything in her life but then had to run back to the safety of home but i dont think she expected Maddox to still be waiting!
I loved this storey and it has some amazing twists and turns - This book has triggers so please read teh warnings!
Alice ran from everything in her life but then had to run back to the safety of home but i dont think she expected Maddox to still be waiting!
I loved this storey and it has some amazing twists and turns - This book has triggers so please read teh warnings!
October 16, 2025
A dark, spicy retelling of Alice in wonderland set in the modern world ? yes please. This was a very entertaining read. This is a darker read, be mindful of the tw’s before you dive in! Alice and Maddox take us on a wild journey. I thought the authour did a great job portraying Maddox’s eccentricness (at his best) and psychoticness ( at his worst) And Alice, traversing through so many emotions, was also really well done. I quite liked this retelling, it's older, darker and spicier than many other retellings and that made it stand out for me. Well written and well paced, I was invested ! I look forward to more by this authour!
October 25, 2025
Alice is coming back to wonderland after fleeing after her father died. She’s trying to cope with her grief along with everything else and hopes her art can help. This sends her right into Maddox’s path someone who doesn’t care about most people but Alice is his person. And the way he showed he cared worked so well. He knew when to push her farther and when to give her a break. When she needed more and when she needed space. This has some great twists and turns along with steam. And of course since it’s a wonderland retelling everyone is a mid mad in this story. Get ready for a wild ride. If you enjoy dark retelling then give this one a whirl.
September 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! Maddox is a little unhinged (okay, a lot unhinged), but he would burn the world for Alice. And Alice had so much healing to do, but she definitely showcases her strength! I’m not sure this book really read as an Alice in Wonderland retelling to me (besides the names of characters/places of course), BUT I did really like the story. It is a dark academia contemporary romance, with an MMC who is absolutely devoted to his woman and enough action and tension to keep you on the edge of your seat!
October 4, 2025
Maddox was so swoon worthy! The first chapter immediately drew me in, and I loved how connected the author made me feel to the story. I adore how possessive and obsessed Maddox is with Alice, and how hard she fought not to feel the same. There was some definite steam, that was so deliciously done. And that plot twist at the end had me gasping out loud! Such a wonderful ending that was poetic justice. I hope March and Ivory get a story! They were my favorite side characters and added some depth to the background.
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