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To Win a Dark Heart
Falling for the Mad King: A Fairy Tale Villain Mash-Up
A witch without magic. A king without a heart. A wonderland falling apart at the seams.
Ellie Strife never cared about getting caught as long as she got her revenge. But after she fails to cast her second curse on the king’s twelve daughters, she is banished to the Mad Lands—a place where logic ceases to exist, flower vases sprout legs, and the unexpected becomes the norm.
Rylan Rhapsody, the unpredictable King of Hearts, is a man who hides more than one secret behind his smile. Chaotic, charming, and powerful magic of his own, Rylan is just as likely to make you lose your mind with his babbling alone as he is to make another ridiculous decree.
After getting his heart stolen from him, quite literally, Ellie must help him get it back. She needs his heart to restore her stolen magic. Rylan needs her cunning to save Wonderland from falling into a state of destruction.
What begins as a reluctant partnership spirals into something unexpectedly love. But when their adversary makes their move on the chessboard, only one of them can pay the price. And in Wonderland, even love demands a sacrifice.
Falling for the Mad King is the sixth book in the To Win a Dark Heart series which retells fairytales as old as time, but this time it’s the villain’s turn to get a happy ending.
Ellie Strife never cared about getting caught as long as she got her revenge. But after she fails to cast her second curse on the king’s twelve daughters, she is banished to the Mad Lands—a place where logic ceases to exist, flower vases sprout legs, and the unexpected becomes the norm.
Rylan Rhapsody, the unpredictable King of Hearts, is a man who hides more than one secret behind his smile. Chaotic, charming, and powerful magic of his own, Rylan is just as likely to make you lose your mind with his babbling alone as he is to make another ridiculous decree.
After getting his heart stolen from him, quite literally, Ellie must help him get it back. She needs his heart to restore her stolen magic. Rylan needs her cunning to save Wonderland from falling into a state of destruction.
What begins as a reluctant partnership spirals into something unexpectedly love. But when their adversary makes their move on the chessboard, only one of them can pay the price. And in Wonderland, even love demands a sacrifice.
Falling for the Mad King is the sixth book in the To Win a Dark Heart series which retells fairytales as old as time, but this time it’s the villain’s turn to get a happy ending.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 5, 2026
I just love Alice in wonderland and the Mad Hatter. The twist was amazing and love the madness of it! Plus all the cute scenes! The ending was perfect and sooooo good! The only thing I didn’t like is the main girl was a witch and of course wasn’t good in the beginning, but I loved her change in the end. So yeah, I loved this!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘⋆.˚༘
Now Playing ♡ Melanie Martinez - Mad Hatter
1:29 ──●── 3:59
Thank you to Sydney Winard for a free advance ebook copy of “Falling For The Mad King” in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I thought was really interesting about this book was that Alice was the villain and Wonderland was ruled by a king instead of the queen of hearts or red queen that typically is the monarch in Alice In Wonderland Retellings and of course in the original by Lewis Carroll. Some of the scenes in this book were so cute! I especially liked the teasing and banter between Rylan and Ellie. The wonderland setting was beautiful and I really liked the magic with the roses. Everything in this book was so whimsical and nonsensical, especially Ryan's friends' names; Gideon Glimmer, Piper Pixiewing, Luna Larkspur, Felix Flamewood, Julian Jester, Thaddeus Thimble, and Clio Clockchime. The ending was so perfect I loved it! I will try another book by this author in the future.
“𝘔𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘳𝘶𝘯. 𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘺-𝘥𝘪𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘯.”
The Characters
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ellie ~ She was great. I really liked her!
Rylan ~ he acted quite childish at times. And he was constantly doing stuff nonchalantly. But I really liked him regardless.
“𝘗𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯’, 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯’ 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘨𝘶𝘯𝘴. 𝘎𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯’ 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘰𝘧𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘶𝘮,”
What To Expect
🌹 Hate To Love
🌹 Alice In Wonderland Retelling
🌹 Romantasy
🌹The Twelve Dancing Princesses
🌹 Villain Gets The Girl
“𝘞𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯'𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥.”
Quotes
~~~~~~~
“Will you hand me your watch?” This question got him to spin around and stare at her incredulously. “One never gives another their watch. Asking for it is the equivalent of a marriage proposal.” Unbearable heat washed over her face, and she rested her hands on her cheeks to try to hide the raging fluster crawling across her skin. “I- I- I didn’t… Y- y- you’re not… I- I- I wasn’t…” But then a large grin flashed across his face before he laughed. “I was jesting.” Ugh. She wanted to hit him. And she just might have if he weren’t so skittish about people touching him. “You are the worst, do you know that?” “Pardon?” he gasped, placing a hand against his chest. “And here I thought you wanted to link arms and drink the wedding tea with me.”
“Ellie Strife, a flaring flopping flabbergasting gardener of a sorceress, was his Queen of Spades.”
“The information you want in exchange for a kiss. I’ve been told I’m a good kisser.” “By whom?” she laughed. Although her eyes didn’t roll, he’d still managed to elicit laughter from her. “You’ve been avoiding women for most of your life.” He winked and pulled out his pocket watch. “By you in about twenty seconds.” She rolled her eyes. And there it was. A point for him! “Nice try. That sort of charm doesn’t work on me.” He snapped his fingers dejectedly. “Can’t blame a madman for trying.”
“She leaned closer to Rylan. “You are despicable!” she hissed near his ear, water still dripping from her chin. “Have I told you that I love when you’re angry with me?” He grinned, the faintest hint of guilt in his eyes. She barely resisted stomping on his foot. Ridiculous king. She hated that she loved his teasing and his banter and his unpredictability. Everything about him went against her nature as a sorceress. She shouldn’t like him. Yet, she did. He was charming in the most maddening way.”
“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮, 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳, 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯’ 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘯𝘬 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳”
Content
~~~~~~~
❤️🔥Romance| Several Semi Detailed kisses, flirting, blushing, a hand kiss, a forehead kiss
🤬Language| Drat,
🗡️Violence| attempted murder, holding knife to throat,
🏳️🌈LGBTQ| none
✝️Religion/Spirituality| Ellie is a sorceress and she casts spells and curses,
🍷Alcohol/Drugs| None.
⚠️Other| death of parents,
Now Playing ♡ Melanie Martinez - Mad Hatter
1:29 ──●── 3:59
Thank you to Sydney Winard for a free advance ebook copy of “Falling For The Mad King” in exchange for an honest review.
One thing I thought was really interesting about this book was that Alice was the villain and Wonderland was ruled by a king instead of the queen of hearts or red queen that typically is the monarch in Alice In Wonderland Retellings and of course in the original by Lewis Carroll. Some of the scenes in this book were so cute! I especially liked the teasing and banter between Rylan and Ellie. The wonderland setting was beautiful and I really liked the magic with the roses. Everything in this book was so whimsical and nonsensical, especially Ryan's friends' names; Gideon Glimmer, Piper Pixiewing, Luna Larkspur, Felix Flamewood, Julian Jester, Thaddeus Thimble, and Clio Clockchime. The ending was so perfect I loved it! I will try another book by this author in the future.
“𝘔𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘳𝘶𝘯. 𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘺-𝘥𝘪𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘯.”
The Characters
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ellie ~ She was great. I really liked her!
Rylan ~ he acted quite childish at times. And he was constantly doing stuff nonchalantly. But I really liked him regardless.
“𝘗𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯’, 𝘱𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯’ 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘨𝘶𝘯𝘴. 𝘎𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯’ 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘰𝘧𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘶𝘮,”
What To Expect
🌹 Hate To Love
🌹 Alice In Wonderland Retelling
🌹 Romantasy
🌹The Twelve Dancing Princesses
🌹 Villain Gets The Girl
“𝘞𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯'𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥.”
Quotes
~~~~~~~
“Will you hand me your watch?” This question got him to spin around and stare at her incredulously. “One never gives another their watch. Asking for it is the equivalent of a marriage proposal.” Unbearable heat washed over her face, and she rested her hands on her cheeks to try to hide the raging fluster crawling across her skin. “I- I- I didn’t… Y- y- you’re not… I- I- I wasn’t…” But then a large grin flashed across his face before he laughed. “I was jesting.” Ugh. She wanted to hit him. And she just might have if he weren’t so skittish about people touching him. “You are the worst, do you know that?” “Pardon?” he gasped, placing a hand against his chest. “And here I thought you wanted to link arms and drink the wedding tea with me.”
“Ellie Strife, a flaring flopping flabbergasting gardener of a sorceress, was his Queen of Spades.”
“The information you want in exchange for a kiss. I’ve been told I’m a good kisser.” “By whom?” she laughed. Although her eyes didn’t roll, he’d still managed to elicit laughter from her. “You’ve been avoiding women for most of your life.” He winked and pulled out his pocket watch. “By you in about twenty seconds.” She rolled her eyes. And there it was. A point for him! “Nice try. That sort of charm doesn’t work on me.” He snapped his fingers dejectedly. “Can’t blame a madman for trying.”
“She leaned closer to Rylan. “You are despicable!” she hissed near his ear, water still dripping from her chin. “Have I told you that I love when you’re angry with me?” He grinned, the faintest hint of guilt in his eyes. She barely resisted stomping on his foot. Ridiculous king. She hated that she loved his teasing and his banter and his unpredictability. Everything about him went against her nature as a sorceress. She shouldn’t like him. Yet, she did. He was charming in the most maddening way.”
“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮, 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳, 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯’ 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘯𝘬 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳”
Content
~~~~~~~
❤️🔥Romance| Several Semi Detailed kisses, flirting, blushing, a hand kiss, a forehead kiss
🤬Language| Drat,
🗡️Violence| attempted murder, holding knife to throat,
🏳️🌈LGBTQ| none
✝️Religion/Spirituality| Ellie is a sorceress and she casts spells and curses,
🍷Alcohol/Drugs| None.
⚠️Other| death of parents,
February 21, 2026
An enchanting reverse retelling of Alice in Wonderland.
The world building is great but what stands out the most is the shift in dynamics between the two characters. The author slowly builds up a chemistry, even though they don’t want to… their feeling is growing.
It’s a constant conflict between what they want and what is happening.
I loved this story and I highly recommend reading it!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The world building is great but what stands out the most is the shift in dynamics between the two characters. The author slowly builds up a chemistry, even though they don’t want to… their feeling is growing.
It’s a constant conflict between what they want and what is happening.
I loved this story and I highly recommend reading it!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Going into this book, I didn’t know what to expect. A super whimsical kingdom, quirky characters, and strange magic? Sure. But what really hooked me was the banter. The enemies-to-more tension. The way these two slowly start catching feelings when they absolutely do not want to... perfect!
Rylan has had his heart stolen, and without it, his health is fading and Wonderland itself is falling apart. Ellie has lost her powers and been banished to Wonderland, where Rylan happens to be king. Neither of them is thrilled about working together, but they don’t really have a choice. She needs his heart to get her magic back, and he needs her to save his kingdom. Time is running out, and someone is actively trying to make sure they fail.
What made this story so fun was watching two people who couldn’t stand each other slowly start to care, and then start to worry about what happens after all of this. Their feelings grow, get messy, and are constantly tested by danger, and impossible choices. The chemistry sneaks up on you, and suddenly you’re way too invested, even with all the strange happenings in Wonderland.
This had cozy vibes, tons of banter, sarcasm, and a romance that completely worked for me. I’ve never been an Alice in Wonderland fan, and somehow this still became my favorite book in the series so far.
I need to read more by this author now.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Rylan has had his heart stolen, and without it, his health is fading and Wonderland itself is falling apart. Ellie has lost her powers and been banished to Wonderland, where Rylan happens to be king. Neither of them is thrilled about working together, but they don’t really have a choice. She needs his heart to get her magic back, and he needs her to save his kingdom. Time is running out, and someone is actively trying to make sure they fail.
What made this story so fun was watching two people who couldn’t stand each other slowly start to care, and then start to worry about what happens after all of this. Their feelings grow, get messy, and are constantly tested by danger, and impossible choices. The chemistry sneaks up on you, and suddenly you’re way too invested, even with all the strange happenings in Wonderland.
This had cozy vibes, tons of banter, sarcasm, and a romance that completely worked for me. I’ve never been an Alice in Wonderland fan, and somehow this still became my favorite book in the series so far.
I need to read more by this author now.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
March 30, 2026
This one hooked me right in the beginning. I didn't love that the fmc was a sorcerer. However, it wasn't too overbearing since she couldn't use her magic most of the story. I loved Rylan and Ellie! I loved the premise of the story and how incredibly well the 2 fairytales went together in this world. It was so fun, whimsical, creative and I loved the stakes of the story! I laughed so many times. Plus who doesn't love a good enemies to lovers plot and a villainous Alice?
February 24, 2026
I had so much fun reading this book! It's the second Alice in Wonderland-inspired story I've read, and it was way better than the first.
Rylan is… how can I describe him? Adorable and mean at the same time? He can be unbearable, but he's still a cutie pie with his fluffy pet. My type, exactly. I fancy red too, Rylan. Same.
Peachy Puff was also an unexpected character. It was really fun to read Ellie running from the creature, only to find out it was actually harmless. Rylan adopting Peachy was very sweet.
The magic system was interesting as well. Using roses as a way to channel his powers was such a cool idea—different colors for different kinds of enchantments. I don't think I've seen this done before.
There were a lot of Alice in Wonderland references, but I definitely didn't expect the Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum reference to be handled that way. It was so funny.
I loved how their relationship developed, and the ending was great. It was basically everything I wanted to happen in the other book I read (yes, Heartless, I'm talking about you). Rylan declaring his love while being taken to the King's castle was absolutely adorable.
The red rose joke at the end was really endearing. This man in love was everything.
I did find some of the word choices a bit odd. I'm not sure if that was intentional or if it's just because English isn't my first language and I'm not used to those words.
I also wish the fated person mark had been developed a bit more. Maybe it should've been kept a secret for a while. The first thing Rylan says after seeing the mark is his suspicion about Ellie being his match. Even if it's obvious to the reader, I think it would've been more satisfying if he had discovered it later—maybe when Ellie mentioned her mark, or if he had realized it on his own.
Overall, I really enjoyed it. I was about 60% into the book last night and decided to read a little more before going to sleep… and I couldn't stop. I ended up finishing it around 3 a.m. and only then went to bed. It's been a while since a book did this to me, so that definitely means something.
Thanks to BookSirens and Sydney Winward for this advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rylan is… how can I describe him? Adorable and mean at the same time? He can be unbearable, but he's still a cutie pie with his fluffy pet. My type, exactly. I fancy red too, Rylan. Same.
Peachy Puff was also an unexpected character. It was really fun to read Ellie running from the creature, only to find out it was actually harmless. Rylan adopting Peachy was very sweet.
The magic system was interesting as well. Using roses as a way to channel his powers was such a cool idea—different colors for different kinds of enchantments. I don't think I've seen this done before.
There were a lot of Alice in Wonderland references, but I definitely didn't expect the Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum reference to be handled that way. It was so funny.
I loved how their relationship developed, and the ending was great. It was basically everything I wanted to happen in the other book I read (yes, Heartless, I'm talking about you). Rylan declaring his love while being taken to the King's castle was absolutely adorable.
The red rose joke at the end was really endearing. This man in love was everything.
I did find some of the word choices a bit odd. I'm not sure if that was intentional or if it's just because English isn't my first language and I'm not used to those words.
I also wish the fated person mark had been developed a bit more. Maybe it should've been kept a secret for a while. The first thing Rylan says after seeing the mark is his suspicion about Ellie being his match. Even if it's obvious to the reader, I think it would've been more satisfying if he had discovered it later—maybe when Ellie mentioned her mark, or if he had realized it on his own.
Overall, I really enjoyed it. I was about 60% into the book last night and decided to read a little more before going to sleep… and I couldn't stop. I ended up finishing it around 3 a.m. and only then went to bed. It's been a while since a book did this to me, so that definitely means something.
Thanks to BookSirens and Sydney Winward for this advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have now received ARCs for just about every book in To Win a Dark Heart, a multi-author series of villainous fairy tale retellings. Among the ones I've read so far, Falling for the Mad King by Sydney Winward is my favorite. This book does an excellent job of bringing two troubled souls together to improve each other's lives for the better with a touch of whimsy and magic. The book combines Alice in Wonderland with "The Twelve Dancing Princesses," two stories that often lack clearly defined villains, allowing the author to create her own protagonists. Parts of it resembled Once Upon a Time in Wonderland, one of my favorite romantic TV shows of all time, but it is very much an original story.
Falling for the Mad King takes place primarily in Wonderland and introduces a villainous incarnation of Alice. The book follows the story of Rylan, the Mad King, an original character whose personality is a mix between the Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts, leaning more toward the former. He meets his match in Ellie Strife, a sorceress who cursed twelve princesses to dance every night in a vengeful act against their cheating father. She is punished by being stripped of her powers and exiled to Wonderland. After growing closer to Rylan, she agrees to help him recover his heart from the devious Alice.
Though these characters are meant to be villains, they are extremely likable from the start. Rylan comes off as silly and frivolous at first, but it is clear that he takes his duties as King of Wonderland seriously, doing his best to protect his subjects from his enchanted roses except in situations where he feels it would benefit him or the kingdom. Ellie was hurt by a previous betrayal and thought she was getting revenge on the king who scorned her by cursing his daughters. She is a sympathetic character who feels lost without her powers in Wonderland and learns to open herself up to Rylan's kindness. They are an excellent match who make each other better people through their actions and words.
Most villainous retellings lean on darker or more mature themes, but this book was surprisingly light and whimsical thanks to the Wonderland setting. Rylan's obsession with rhyming creates some welcome humor and levity for the story, while Ellie's stunted powers eliminated any threat she may have posed. The choice to create a Mad Hatter-inspired villain instead of the intimidating Queen of Hearts gives the story a lighter overall feel than some of the others in the To Win a Dark Heart series. It's the perfect book for someone looking for a villainous retelling but doesn't want to read about villains.
Falling for the Mad King is a charming addition to the To Win a Dark Heart series, offering a whimsical and lighthearted take on villainous fairy tale retellings. Sydney Winward's colorful characters, witty dialogue, and inventive world-building make for a spellbinding romance that will leave you rooting for these troubled souls. If you're looking for a story that subverts traditional villainous tropes and celebrates the power of love and redemption, this book is a must-read.
Falling for the Mad King takes place primarily in Wonderland and introduces a villainous incarnation of Alice. The book follows the story of Rylan, the Mad King, an original character whose personality is a mix between the Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts, leaning more toward the former. He meets his match in Ellie Strife, a sorceress who cursed twelve princesses to dance every night in a vengeful act against their cheating father. She is punished by being stripped of her powers and exiled to Wonderland. After growing closer to Rylan, she agrees to help him recover his heart from the devious Alice.
Though these characters are meant to be villains, they are extremely likable from the start. Rylan comes off as silly and frivolous at first, but it is clear that he takes his duties as King of Wonderland seriously, doing his best to protect his subjects from his enchanted roses except in situations where he feels it would benefit him or the kingdom. Ellie was hurt by a previous betrayal and thought she was getting revenge on the king who scorned her by cursing his daughters. She is a sympathetic character who feels lost without her powers in Wonderland and learns to open herself up to Rylan's kindness. They are an excellent match who make each other better people through their actions and words.
Most villainous retellings lean on darker or more mature themes, but this book was surprisingly light and whimsical thanks to the Wonderland setting. Rylan's obsession with rhyming creates some welcome humor and levity for the story, while Ellie's stunted powers eliminated any threat she may have posed. The choice to create a Mad Hatter-inspired villain instead of the intimidating Queen of Hearts gives the story a lighter overall feel than some of the others in the To Win a Dark Heart series. It's the perfect book for someone looking for a villainous retelling but doesn't want to read about villains.
Falling for the Mad King is a charming addition to the To Win a Dark Heart series, offering a whimsical and lighthearted take on villainous fairy tale retellings. Sydney Winward's colorful characters, witty dialogue, and inventive world-building make for a spellbinding romance that will leave you rooting for these troubled souls. If you're looking for a story that subverts traditional villainous tropes and celebrates the power of love and redemption, this book is a must-read.
February 10, 2026
ARC review of Falling for the Mad King by Sydney Winward.
This was a 12 Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland mashup. Going into this, I have never been a big fan of the original Alice fairytale, but wow, Sydney has done this story so so well! It will probably be one of my favorite books of the year. I loved everything about it. When I read chapter one I was worried and thought it will be just an Alice vibe, but I was so wrong!
The Mad King… the “off with your head” type dangerous and powerful man. He was an absolute legend in this book. I was laughing so hard at some scenes where you can just see this image Sydney created and you can’t help but burst out laughing. And yes, I was crying too, literal tears down the cheeks!
And Your Sorcereressness - if you know you know! Ellie was actually such a sweet person even if she had a black heart. I’m so happy for how her story turned out. I just wish there was a bit more we knew about her.
The world building was great with the sun and the roses being my favorites! And the little easter eggs dropped in here and there too. But I wouldn’t have been mad if we saw more about the physical aspects of Wonderland, more about the creatures maybe…. Or maybe I just didn’t want the book to end.
There were many twists where I thought it was so well written and just didn’t see coming at all.
I was left with a question though! Was it pocket watches or compasses?
I will recommend this to any fairytale lover, with humor and sad moments, no spice romances, YA readers as well. I loved it.
Thank you Sydney for the privilege to read and review this book.
This was a 12 Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland mashup. Going into this, I have never been a big fan of the original Alice fairytale, but wow, Sydney has done this story so so well! It will probably be one of my favorite books of the year. I loved everything about it. When I read chapter one I was worried and thought it will be just an Alice vibe, but I was so wrong!
The Mad King… the “off with your head” type dangerous and powerful man. He was an absolute legend in this book. I was laughing so hard at some scenes where you can just see this image Sydney created and you can’t help but burst out laughing. And yes, I was crying too, literal tears down the cheeks!
And Your Sorcereressness - if you know you know! Ellie was actually such a sweet person even if she had a black heart. I’m so happy for how her story turned out. I just wish there was a bit more we knew about her.
The world building was great with the sun and the roses being my favorites! And the little easter eggs dropped in here and there too. But I wouldn’t have been mad if we saw more about the physical aspects of Wonderland, more about the creatures maybe…. Or maybe I just didn’t want the book to end.
There were many twists where I thought it was so well written and just didn’t see coming at all.
I was left with a question though! Was it pocket watches or compasses?
I will recommend this to any fairytale lover, with humor and sad moments, no spice romances, YA readers as well. I loved it.
Thank you Sydney for the privilege to read and review this book.
April 26, 2026
This is a villainous mashup of Alice in Wonderland and the Twelve Dancing Princesses. I love Sydney Winward’s writing. It has a way of transporting you into the other world.
The characters were quirky and fun to follow. Ellie had a great come back and character growth. Rylan was so chaotic and nonsensical that I loved it. Very mad hatter mixed with the red queen there. I love their banter and seeing them help each other to be better in the end.
The plot is well paced full of chaos and adventure. There’s plenty of twists and wonders to keep you thoroughly entertained.
Overall, really enjoyed this one and would recommend to teens and adults alike.
Read if you enjoy:
🥀 Villain POV
🥀 Alice in Wonderland
🥀 12 Dancing Princesses
🥀 Curses
🥀 Unlikely allies
🥀 Magic Roses
🥀 Exile
🥀 Time Warp
🥀 Chaotic realms
Spice: none just sweet kisses (PG)
Violence: attempted murder, holding weapons on others - nothing detailed or gory
Language: none
The characters were quirky and fun to follow. Ellie had a great come back and character growth. Rylan was so chaotic and nonsensical that I loved it. Very mad hatter mixed with the red queen there. I love their banter and seeing them help each other to be better in the end.
The plot is well paced full of chaos and adventure. There’s plenty of twists and wonders to keep you thoroughly entertained.
Overall, really enjoyed this one and would recommend to teens and adults alike.
Read if you enjoy:
🥀 Villain POV
🥀 Alice in Wonderland
🥀 12 Dancing Princesses
🥀 Curses
🥀 Unlikely allies
🥀 Magic Roses
🥀 Exile
🥀 Time Warp
🥀 Chaotic realms
Spice: none just sweet kisses (PG)
Violence: attempted murder, holding weapons on others - nothing detailed or gory
Language: none
February 20, 2026
Genre: Fantasy, gender-flipped classic and fairy tale retelling [of Alice in Wonderland and The Twelve Dancing Princesses]
Tropes: Mistaken identity, forced proximity, unexpected love
Setting: The Mad Lands
Writing style: Multiple POV, 3rd person, past tense
Tone: Absurd/fanciful, mildly suspenceful at times, alternately light and serious
Character- or plot-driven: Something of both
Romance: Yes
Clean level:
• 1 instance of minimally described kissing over three paragraphs
• 1 mouth kiss minimally described, including legs going weak, over 2-3 paragraphs
• 1 mouth kiss barely described over two sentences
• 1 mouth kiss without description
• 1 wrist kiss, not detailed, three sentences
Sensitive aspects:
• 1 instance scratching at skin that while not gruesome was enough for a squeamish person
• 1 reference to a paramour (there isn’t one)
• A character was jilted
Favorite aspects of the book:
• The whole story concept and its execution
• The redemption
• The roses
I love the concept of being sent to Wonderland — here known as the Mad Lands — as a punishment, only to find wholeness and a second chance.
I was concerned for a time that the protagonists might remain largely as they were, coming together in their shared corruption, but thankfully that was not the case. This is a true redemption story, and the best part is that each serves as a conduit for the other’s personal growth. They are able to see each other’s failures clearly, and through coming to love one another, they are then able to recognize those same flaws in themselves. And that love transforms them from self-absorbed individuals into people capable of the greatest sacrifices.
The narrative externalizes emotions and humanity, making the inner workings of the characters tangible. Ellie’s heart physically black from her rage and hate that extends beyond the one who’s guilty, changing back to its rightful color when she learns to love another. Her intending to literally steal King Melgen’s heart. Alice succeeding in literally stealing Rylan’s heart and him having to get it back not only so he won’t die but so Wonderland won’t be destroyed.
Favorite Quotations:
• And then darkness crashed over him like a giant pulling the shades of night over the sky.
• Each gasping breath tore through her lungs like fire burning through parchment.
• These crazies were dangerous. But that made it fun and interesting. At least until the almost dying part.
• “What are you doing?” she gasped, staring at him as if he were a wild dog that might snap at her out of unpredictability alone. Just when she thought he might not actually be mad, he blindfolded her senses and spun her around a few hundred times until she didn’t know what was up and what was down.
• She wasn’t sure why her chest squeezed within her, nor why her pulse thrummed at her neck like the quiet whisper of a butterfly’s wings. She only knew she needed to escape the jaws of the lion already holding her within its grasp. Teasing her. Playing with her. Waiting for her to bolt before he pounced. But like the prey, she couldn’t help but bolt.
• “Besides, better to lose a stone than to lose your mind.” She gave him a look that said he’d lost his marbles long ago. “At least entirely.” He winked.
• She glanced toward the moon, watching in awe not for the first time as the moonlight dust sprinkled down like flakes of snow.
• He missed her smile the most. Like drops of sunshine rain all gathered in the glow of a face.
• So why did her heart flutter about nervously like a butterfly skillfully evading a hunter’s net?
• He was too careless with his words, throwing them about like showering rain but meaning nothing he said.
• “I wasn’t aware the King of Hearts was capable of apologizing. We’ll mark the calendars for this momentous occasion. The people must celebrate the new holiday once a year.”
• Suddenly, her eyes flew open as she gasped. This was the Stairway to Nowhere. A destination didn’t exist on the other side of the staircase. Rather, the destination was wherever you were going. That’s what Rylan had said. This was Wonderland. Not the world she was from. She had to trust in the strange and abnormal, pushing away everything that made sense to her and rejecting the sane. She recalled Rylan’s words. “To find your way, sometimes you must lose yourself.” Therefore, she gave up trying to follow the rules of her own land and let everything she had ever known wash away. If going upward was nowhere, then going nowhere was somewhere. She must try something else. So, taking a mad leap of faith, she closed her eyes and leaned backward, trusting in the abnormal, in the insane.
(I received a free copy of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
Tropes: Mistaken identity, forced proximity, unexpected love
Setting: The Mad Lands
Writing style: Multiple POV, 3rd person, past tense
Tone: Absurd/fanciful, mildly suspenceful at times, alternately light and serious
Character- or plot-driven: Something of both
Romance: Yes
Clean level:
• 1 instance of minimally described kissing over three paragraphs
• 1 mouth kiss minimally described, including legs going weak, over 2-3 paragraphs
• 1 mouth kiss barely described over two sentences
• 1 mouth kiss without description
• 1 wrist kiss, not detailed, three sentences
Sensitive aspects:
• 1 instance scratching at skin that while not gruesome was enough for a squeamish person
• 1 reference to a paramour (there isn’t one)
• A character was jilted
Favorite aspects of the book:
• The whole story concept and its execution
• The redemption
• The roses
I love the concept of being sent to Wonderland — here known as the Mad Lands — as a punishment, only to find wholeness and a second chance.
I was concerned for a time that the protagonists might remain largely as they were, coming together in their shared corruption, but thankfully that was not the case. This is a true redemption story, and the best part is that each serves as a conduit for the other’s personal growth. They are able to see each other’s failures clearly, and through coming to love one another, they are then able to recognize those same flaws in themselves. And that love transforms them from self-absorbed individuals into people capable of the greatest sacrifices.
The narrative externalizes emotions and humanity, making the inner workings of the characters tangible. Ellie’s heart physically black from her rage and hate that extends beyond the one who’s guilty, changing back to its rightful color when she learns to love another. Her intending to literally steal King Melgen’s heart. Alice succeeding in literally stealing Rylan’s heart and him having to get it back not only so he won’t die but so Wonderland won’t be destroyed.
Favorite Quotations:
• And then darkness crashed over him like a giant pulling the shades of night over the sky.
• Each gasping breath tore through her lungs like fire burning through parchment.
• These crazies were dangerous. But that made it fun and interesting. At least until the almost dying part.
• “What are you doing?” she gasped, staring at him as if he were a wild dog that might snap at her out of unpredictability alone. Just when she thought he might not actually be mad, he blindfolded her senses and spun her around a few hundred times until she didn’t know what was up and what was down.
• She wasn’t sure why her chest squeezed within her, nor why her pulse thrummed at her neck like the quiet whisper of a butterfly’s wings. She only knew she needed to escape the jaws of the lion already holding her within its grasp. Teasing her. Playing with her. Waiting for her to bolt before he pounced. But like the prey, she couldn’t help but bolt.
• “Besides, better to lose a stone than to lose your mind.” She gave him a look that said he’d lost his marbles long ago. “At least entirely.” He winked.
• She glanced toward the moon, watching in awe not for the first time as the moonlight dust sprinkled down like flakes of snow.
• He missed her smile the most. Like drops of sunshine rain all gathered in the glow of a face.
• So why did her heart flutter about nervously like a butterfly skillfully evading a hunter’s net?
• He was too careless with his words, throwing them about like showering rain but meaning nothing he said.
• “I wasn’t aware the King of Hearts was capable of apologizing. We’ll mark the calendars for this momentous occasion. The people must celebrate the new holiday once a year.”
• Suddenly, her eyes flew open as she gasped. This was the Stairway to Nowhere. A destination didn’t exist on the other side of the staircase. Rather, the destination was wherever you were going. That’s what Rylan had said. This was Wonderland. Not the world she was from. She had to trust in the strange and abnormal, pushing away everything that made sense to her and rejecting the sane. She recalled Rylan’s words. “To find your way, sometimes you must lose yourself.” Therefore, she gave up trying to follow the rules of her own land and let everything she had ever known wash away. If going upward was nowhere, then going nowhere was somewhere. She must try something else. So, taking a mad leap of faith, she closed her eyes and leaned backward, trusting in the abnormal, in the insane.
(I received a free copy of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a ARC copy of this book from the author and though I didn’t have to post a review, after reading it I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of it.
Sydney has written a delightful tale merging two favorite fairy tales together- The Twelve Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland where the stories you loved are twisted into a story where you find out the reason behind the princesses curse and that Alice isn’t the sweet naive little girl you thought she always was!
When Ellie Strife tries to recurse the princesses because of what their father did to her another sorcerer binds her magic and she is literally thrown down into Wonderland. However, before her landing there the King of Hearts finds his friend Alice has deceived him and takes his heart and leaves. Without his heart he’ll die and Wonderland with him.
Ellie arrives with no magic and the king has no heart. Can these two work together forgetting their pasts and look to the future? It will require ultimate sacrifices for both as Ellie slowly finds her dark heart starts to change color as she starts to see Wonderland and the infuriating king who starts to seem like something more. Then they meet Alice and the king gives her the ultimate gift after Alice destroys Ellie’s but she refuses to abandon him and together they struggle to return to her world where her magic can be unlocked once again.
This series is so good! Every story lets you see villains and even those you thought were good in new light as villains get their own happily ever afters finally!
If you’ve read and enjoyed fairytales before you’ll love this book and this series! If you’ve not read this genre since you were young come back and let the magic work it’s spell on you once again! See and experience some of your favorite fairytales in a whole new delightful setting!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book and this series and urge everyone to read and enjoy these refreshing tales on beloved classics where this time redemption comes to those who were the villains previously!
I can guarantee you’ll be happy you read this book and hopefully will want to read this series as well. I have loved everyone of the books so far and look forward to the balance as I have always loved fairytales and I love this new treatment my favorites are now found in!
See you inside these books enjoying them with me!
Sydney has written a delightful tale merging two favorite fairy tales together- The Twelve Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland where the stories you loved are twisted into a story where you find out the reason behind the princesses curse and that Alice isn’t the sweet naive little girl you thought she always was!
When Ellie Strife tries to recurse the princesses because of what their father did to her another sorcerer binds her magic and she is literally thrown down into Wonderland. However, before her landing there the King of Hearts finds his friend Alice has deceived him and takes his heart and leaves. Without his heart he’ll die and Wonderland with him.
Ellie arrives with no magic and the king has no heart. Can these two work together forgetting their pasts and look to the future? It will require ultimate sacrifices for both as Ellie slowly finds her dark heart starts to change color as she starts to see Wonderland and the infuriating king who starts to seem like something more. Then they meet Alice and the king gives her the ultimate gift after Alice destroys Ellie’s but she refuses to abandon him and together they struggle to return to her world where her magic can be unlocked once again.
This series is so good! Every story lets you see villains and even those you thought were good in new light as villains get their own happily ever afters finally!
If you’ve read and enjoyed fairytales before you’ll love this book and this series! If you’ve not read this genre since you were young come back and let the magic work it’s spell on you once again! See and experience some of your favorite fairytales in a whole new delightful setting!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book and this series and urge everyone to read and enjoy these refreshing tales on beloved classics where this time redemption comes to those who were the villains previously!
I can guarantee you’ll be happy you read this book and hopefully will want to read this series as well. I have loved everyone of the books so far and look forward to the balance as I have always loved fairytales and I love this new treatment my favorites are now found in!
See you inside these books enjoying them with me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn't expecting to read a story where the King of Hearts and the sorceror (or in this case, sorceress) from the 12 Dancing Princesses get together, but after reading this, it actually makes some semblance of sense. But not too much because these are the Mad Lands, after all (otherwise known as Wonderland).
For starters, I thoroughly enjoyed Rylan's character, although I think he needed a cooler name. He was delightfully quirky and scary without being totally heartless...well, mostly. He was sweet, funny, and unpredictable without losing any of his charm. I enjoyed all of his chapters to the fullest. Ellie, by contrast, was practical and cynical, so it was quite a surprise to see her warm up to Rylan and his home. However, her sanity grounded his levity, and his laissez-faire attitude loosened her obssessive focus. They made quite a good match—my only complaint is that they seemed to fall too quickly into love, but again, it's Wonderland. All things are possible.
Story-wise, I liked how the search for Rylan's heart was the focus. We don't need a grand plot to appreciate the world building and character arcs. However, I think there could have been a dash more enemies-to-lovers here because of how they both want the heart back. My biggest complaint with the story was the lack of explanation regarding Alice. Alice as a villain sounds SO COOL, and her reasoning seemed valid...we just never get proof to back up her claims. She claims Rylan is a tyrant, but he doesn't appear like one. So, was she the mad one? Or was she right, and Rylan underwent a huge character arc we didn't get to see? I think it was a big missed opportunity to even include just a little bit of that story. It would have made more sense to make Rylan more villanious—it would have been brought him closer to Ellie (since she, too, was rather villainous) and given him a good reason to grow into the person he is at the end of the book.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this book. It's fun and quirky with enough of a storyline to carry you through without it overshadowing the characters. Would recommend for a villainous romance that's not too dark!
For starters, I thoroughly enjoyed Rylan's character, although I think he needed a cooler name. He was delightfully quirky and scary without being totally heartless...well, mostly. He was sweet, funny, and unpredictable without losing any of his charm. I enjoyed all of his chapters to the fullest. Ellie, by contrast, was practical and cynical, so it was quite a surprise to see her warm up to Rylan and his home. However, her sanity grounded his levity, and his laissez-faire attitude loosened her obssessive focus. They made quite a good match—my only complaint is that they seemed to fall too quickly into love, but again, it's Wonderland. All things are possible.
Story-wise, I liked how the search for Rylan's heart was the focus. We don't need a grand plot to appreciate the world building and character arcs. However, I think there could have been a dash more enemies-to-lovers here because of how they both want the heart back. My biggest complaint with the story was the lack of explanation regarding Alice. Alice as a villain sounds SO COOL, and her reasoning seemed valid...we just never get proof to back up her claims. She claims Rylan is a tyrant, but he doesn't appear like one. So, was she the mad one? Or was she right, and Rylan underwent a huge character arc we didn't get to see? I think it was a big missed opportunity to even include just a little bit of that story. It would have made more sense to make Rylan more villanious—it would have been brought him closer to Ellie (since she, too, was rather villainous) and given him a good reason to grow into the person he is at the end of the book.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this book. It's fun and quirky with enough of a storyline to carry you through without it overshadowing the characters. Would recommend for a villainous romance that's not too dark!
Review of advance copy received from Author
👑🌹🐇 ARC Review: Falling for the Mad King by Sydney Winward
⭐ 4.5/5 Stars — a whimsical, aching Wonderland romance where chaos hides devotion and love costs everything
Falling for the Mad King feels like tumbling headfirst down the rabbit hole teacups rattling, roses whispering, and your heart never quite landing where you expect.
🕯️ Ellie Strife is a witch without magic and a woman exhausted by grief. Banished for revenge she never finished, Ellie arrives in Wonderland guarded, bitter, and afraid to hope. Love has only ever brought her loss. Yet beneath her sharp edges is a heart still aching to be seen.
👑 Rylan Rhapsody, the Mad King of Hearts, is chaos wrapped in charm. He rhymes when he’s nervous, lies when flustered, dances like joy itself, and hands out absurd punishments with a grin. With black hair, golden eyes, and a stolen heart, he is anything but mad and everything Ellie never expected. He is sunshine. She is storms. And he falls first.
✨ Wonderland bursts with color and wonder: green and purple roses, bubbling water traps, mazes of dusty halls, rackleberry tarts, and teacups brimming with warmth. Disguised as Tweedledum and Tweedledee, Ellie and Rylan race against time to reunite him with the heart of Wonderland before it kills him.
🌙 What makes this story shine is its tenderness. Rylan never touches Ellie until she is hurt. He gives her safety before affection. And slowly, gently, he helps her release the resentment she’s been carrying alone.
🌹If you love: 🐇 Wonderland retellings 👑 Sunshine MMC × grumpy FMC 🌹 Soulmates & fate-bound love 💜 Age gap romance (she’s older) 🫖 Whimsy with emotional depth
⚠️ Content Warnings: • Blood & injury • Death of a parent
📖 Final Thoughts: Sydney Winward delivers a heartfelt, imaginative romance that proves madness and magic often hide the deepest love. Falling for the Mad King is about choosing joy after grief and learning that sometimes the enemy isn’t the king it’s the past you’re afraid to release.
— Elizabeth
Falling for the Mad King feels like tumbling headfirst down the rabbit hole teacups rattling, roses whispering, and your heart never quite landing where you expect.
🕯️ Ellie Strife is a witch without magic and a woman exhausted by grief. Banished for revenge she never finished, Ellie arrives in Wonderland guarded, bitter, and afraid to hope. Love has only ever brought her loss. Yet beneath her sharp edges is a heart still aching to be seen.
👑 Rylan Rhapsody, the Mad King of Hearts, is chaos wrapped in charm. He rhymes when he’s nervous, lies when flustered, dances like joy itself, and hands out absurd punishments with a grin. With black hair, golden eyes, and a stolen heart, he is anything but mad and everything Ellie never expected. He is sunshine. She is storms. And he falls first.
✨ Wonderland bursts with color and wonder: green and purple roses, bubbling water traps, mazes of dusty halls, rackleberry tarts, and teacups brimming with warmth. Disguised as Tweedledum and Tweedledee, Ellie and Rylan race against time to reunite him with the heart of Wonderland before it kills him.
🌙 What makes this story shine is its tenderness. Rylan never touches Ellie until she is hurt. He gives her safety before affection. And slowly, gently, he helps her release the resentment she’s been carrying alone.
🌹If you love: 🐇 Wonderland retellings 👑 Sunshine MMC × grumpy FMC 🌹 Soulmates & fate-bound love 💜 Age gap romance (she’s older) 🫖 Whimsy with emotional depth
⚠️ Content Warnings: • Blood & injury • Death of a parent
📖 Final Thoughts: Sydney Winward delivers a heartfelt, imaginative romance that proves madness and magic often hide the deepest love. Falling for the Mad King is about choosing joy after grief and learning that sometimes the enemy isn’t the king it’s the past you’re afraid to release.
— Elizabeth
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ooh, one of my faves in this series! An absolutely unpredictable, whimzical and fantastic mashup retelling of Alice in Wonderland and 12 Dancing Princesses - loved it!
Rylan Rhapsody’s heart is stolen at his unbirthday party and then a sorceress called Ellie lands in his lap, eager to garden his magic roses, what can ossibly go wrong in Mad Lands?
What if Mad Lands had a Mad King of Hearts, not a queen? What if Alice was the villain? What if Wonderland aka Mad Lands couldn’t exist if the king had no heart and it was just stolen (and not figuratively, either)?
I could not put this one down. The darkness of obsession, the madness of being unable to touch a single being, the sneaky magic of roses, the treachery, the dialogue, the pace and wonderful characters - it was all sublime. One of the most imaginative, dark and twisted retellings of Alice in Wonderland I’ve ever read. Loved how steadfast Ryland was, yanking Ellie out of her obsession with the man who jilted her, offering quirky dialogue and adventure to distract her, all the while, ofc, searching for his heart. The doubts, the suspicions, the fears on their way; and the pink bubbly emotions rising through them were so delish! Loved Ellie’s can do attitude - I mean, offering to tend a garden when plants died at her neglect was a survival tactic. Also loved how the author managed to pull a Carroll - write a Wonderland retelling just as whimsical, absurdist and heartwarming as the original tale. But don’t take my word for it - read it yourself.
Fave quotes:
- Best devious plan: “The easiest way to get someone to do what he wanted? Make them fall in love with him.”
- Best proposal: “ You can curse people here, too, you know. Everyone needs a hobby.”
Recommended for lovers of dark but clean mixed gen (NA more than upper YA) mashup retellings, especially of Alice in Wonderland and other tales mixed in for fun.
Rylan Rhapsody’s heart is stolen at his unbirthday party and then a sorceress called Ellie lands in his lap, eager to garden his magic roses, what can ossibly go wrong in Mad Lands?
What if Mad Lands had a Mad King of Hearts, not a queen? What if Alice was the villain? What if Wonderland aka Mad Lands couldn’t exist if the king had no heart and it was just stolen (and not figuratively, either)?
I could not put this one down. The darkness of obsession, the madness of being unable to touch a single being, the sneaky magic of roses, the treachery, the dialogue, the pace and wonderful characters - it was all sublime. One of the most imaginative, dark and twisted retellings of Alice in Wonderland I’ve ever read. Loved how steadfast Ryland was, yanking Ellie out of her obsession with the man who jilted her, offering quirky dialogue and adventure to distract her, all the while, ofc, searching for his heart. The doubts, the suspicions, the fears on their way; and the pink bubbly emotions rising through them were so delish! Loved Ellie’s can do attitude - I mean, offering to tend a garden when plants died at her neglect was a survival tactic. Also loved how the author managed to pull a Carroll - write a Wonderland retelling just as whimsical, absurdist and heartwarming as the original tale. But don’t take my word for it - read it yourself.
Fave quotes:
- Best devious plan: “The easiest way to get someone to do what he wanted? Make them fall in love with him.”
- Best proposal: “ You can curse people here, too, you know. Everyone needs a hobby.”
Recommended for lovers of dark but clean mixed gen (NA more than upper YA) mashup retellings, especially of Alice in Wonderland and other tales mixed in for fun.
March 10, 2026
“FALLING FOREVER HAD never been on the top of Ellie's to-do list.
The nothingness of the abyss caved in on her, a darkness deep enough to overwhelm her senses.
Which way was up? Which way was down? When suspended in the air, her muddy hair flailing in all directions, she lost all sense of time and place, her scream swallowed up by the bottomless void.” page 33
I enjoyed this imaginative return to Wonderland. Falling for the Mad King feels familiar, but not in a recycled way, more like Sydney rebuilt it brick by brick with a different concept in mind. The worldbuilding is strong and vivid, and the plot moves without problems from start to finish.
One of the novel’s biggest strengths is the description of Mad Lands. It is more balanced than Lewis Carroll’s original landscape of colourful chaos. The magic still exists, but it’s less random whimsy and more grounded. The creatures add to that atmosphere, especially the “kneazle,” which is easy to imagine as a feral, sharp-toothed thing slinking through the forest. Nothing feels decorative for its own sake; the setting actively supports the narrative. As a result, the plot feels more controlled.
Revenge and desperation are clearly the engines driving everything forward, and that works well for the fantasy genre. Each major character has a defined goal that keeps the narrative anchored. Ellie, the sorcerer, wants to escape Mad Lands and take revenge on the man who broke her heart. Ryan, the Mad King, is searching for his stolen heart while trying to preserve his crumbling kingdom. Their motivations give the story momentum, and the pacing benefits from that clarity. Perhaps most satisfying of all are the loose bits that are tied up neatly by the conclusion of the novel.
That said, I did wish Sydney had pushed the characters a little further. The storyline is compelling, but the personalities sometimes feel muted. Ryan, for instance, doesn’t fully embody what you might expect from someone called the “Mad King.” He’s more eccentric than volatile. A touch of more emotional unpredictability would have heightened his presence. Ellie, too, feels almost too gentle for someone described as heartbroken and in exile. She tends to give in to Ryan’s wishes; e.g., when he asks her to smell a black rose for the second time, she agrees, even though it almost killed her.
Alice’s role also feels slightly underdeveloped. She enters the story late, which limits the emotional impact of her actions. We’re told she stole the King’s heart and that he may have tyrannical tendencies, but we don’t see enough of that history unfold. A few more flashbacks or confrontations could have given her betrayal more weight to her actions. As it stands, Alice’s evil side feels a bit hard to believe.
Still, Falling for the Mad King took me to a place of adventure, magic, and romance in a way that felt structured, cohesive and enchanting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The nothingness of the abyss caved in on her, a darkness deep enough to overwhelm her senses.
Which way was up? Which way was down? When suspended in the air, her muddy hair flailing in all directions, she lost all sense of time and place, her scream swallowed up by the bottomless void.” page 33
I enjoyed this imaginative return to Wonderland. Falling for the Mad King feels familiar, but not in a recycled way, more like Sydney rebuilt it brick by brick with a different concept in mind. The worldbuilding is strong and vivid, and the plot moves without problems from start to finish.
One of the novel’s biggest strengths is the description of Mad Lands. It is more balanced than Lewis Carroll’s original landscape of colourful chaos. The magic still exists, but it’s less random whimsy and more grounded. The creatures add to that atmosphere, especially the “kneazle,” which is easy to imagine as a feral, sharp-toothed thing slinking through the forest. Nothing feels decorative for its own sake; the setting actively supports the narrative. As a result, the plot feels more controlled.
Revenge and desperation are clearly the engines driving everything forward, and that works well for the fantasy genre. Each major character has a defined goal that keeps the narrative anchored. Ellie, the sorcerer, wants to escape Mad Lands and take revenge on the man who broke her heart. Ryan, the Mad King, is searching for his stolen heart while trying to preserve his crumbling kingdom. Their motivations give the story momentum, and the pacing benefits from that clarity. Perhaps most satisfying of all are the loose bits that are tied up neatly by the conclusion of the novel.
That said, I did wish Sydney had pushed the characters a little further. The storyline is compelling, but the personalities sometimes feel muted. Ryan, for instance, doesn’t fully embody what you might expect from someone called the “Mad King.” He’s more eccentric than volatile. A touch of more emotional unpredictability would have heightened his presence. Ellie, too, feels almost too gentle for someone described as heartbroken and in exile. She tends to give in to Ryan’s wishes; e.g., when he asks her to smell a black rose for the second time, she agrees, even though it almost killed her.
Alice’s role also feels slightly underdeveloped. She enters the story late, which limits the emotional impact of her actions. We’re told she stole the King’s heart and that he may have tyrannical tendencies, but we don’t see enough of that history unfold. A few more flashbacks or confrontations could have given her betrayal more weight to her actions. As it stands, Alice’s evil side feels a bit hard to believe.
Still, Falling for the Mad King took me to a place of adventure, magic, and romance in a way that felt structured, cohesive and enchanting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🦋Review🦋
I’ve read a few retellings of Alice in Wonderland and I just need to say, I feel like Falling for the Mad King fully embodies the tale. It is weird and wonderful and completely whimsical! There are twists while still keeping to the spirit. The Twelve Dancing Princesses does make an appearance but it’s not as front and center. That didn’t bother me in the least, though.
Ellie Strife and Rylan Rhapsody are a sweet couple that show learning to love again after heartbreak and betrayal. Ellie is obsessive and bent on revenge. She is a great example of lashing out from pain. Is what she did right? Absolutely not. Do I understand? Yes, a little bit. Her feelings are a little irrational but that’s what makes a great villainess origin. At the beginning, she had major old-timey Maleficent vibes. Rylan on the other hand is wild and untamed. He is the very definition of MAD. I don’t know that I would call him a full fledged villain but he definitely had his “Queen of Hearts” moments where I thought, “Oh, he’s crazy”. I’m going to follow up that statement by saying I love him. He is so good for Ellie, and vice versa.
Back to the world of Wonderland. The plot was just as odd (in the best way) as the original tales. I had moments where I wondered how Winward came up with such wildness. It made guessing what came next fun. And no, I could not guess what came next. I loved every moment! Overall, I am thrilled that I had the privilege of reading this whimsical retelling.
Thank you to Sydney Winward for an ARC of Falling for the Mad King! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 1.5 lighter kissing
Language: Clean
Faith-Elements: None (content - this is a villain story and as such, Ellie is a witch, though one without magic)
I’ve read a few retellings of Alice in Wonderland and I just need to say, I feel like Falling for the Mad King fully embodies the tale. It is weird and wonderful and completely whimsical! There are twists while still keeping to the spirit. The Twelve Dancing Princesses does make an appearance but it’s not as front and center. That didn’t bother me in the least, though.
Ellie Strife and Rylan Rhapsody are a sweet couple that show learning to love again after heartbreak and betrayal. Ellie is obsessive and bent on revenge. She is a great example of lashing out from pain. Is what she did right? Absolutely not. Do I understand? Yes, a little bit. Her feelings are a little irrational but that’s what makes a great villainess origin. At the beginning, she had major old-timey Maleficent vibes. Rylan on the other hand is wild and untamed. He is the very definition of MAD. I don’t know that I would call him a full fledged villain but he definitely had his “Queen of Hearts” moments where I thought, “Oh, he’s crazy”. I’m going to follow up that statement by saying I love him. He is so good for Ellie, and vice versa.
Back to the world of Wonderland. The plot was just as odd (in the best way) as the original tales. I had moments where I wondered how Winward came up with such wildness. It made guessing what came next fun. And no, I could not guess what came next. I loved every moment! Overall, I am thrilled that I had the privilege of reading this whimsical retelling.
Thank you to Sydney Winward for an ARC of Falling for the Mad King! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 1.5 lighter kissing
Language: Clean
Faith-Elements: None (content - this is a villain story and as such, Ellie is a witch, though one without magic)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn't able to read this in one sitting, but every time I had to put the book down, I kept thinking about it! The world building was great, the character development was deep (except for Alice...not sure where she got her "the king is a villain" opinion), and the twists and turns in the plot were engaging.
I'm learning to enjoy enemies-to-lovers, but this particular book reminded me why it isn't my favorite trope--every time the Mad King spoke, Ellie got a headache, even to the very end. I have a hard time understanding how she could even contemplate falling for someone who gave her a headache every time they spoke! The book overall could have used a bit tighter editing (dangling modifiers and such), but it wasn't so prevalent to detract from the story. Content warning for dark magic--I read an arc (and didn't get the full blurb) and didn't realize the female main character was a sorceress and that both characters used dark magic throughout the book. I would have passed on this one had I known. (Since I received an arc, I wanted to finish the book to give it a full review. The dark magic part would be my only reason not to reread this book, and since magic is a "me" thing, not an objective negative, I didn't take off stars for the rating.)
Mashups can be tricky, but I felt like there was enough of the Dancing Princesses story to warrant this being more than just an Alice in Wonderland retelling. I did very much enjoy all the upside-down and inside-out Easter eggs from Alice in Wonderland. Definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes an unexpected angle to a popular fairy tale and who doesn't care about the magic aspect.
I'm learning to enjoy enemies-to-lovers, but this particular book reminded me why it isn't my favorite trope--every time the Mad King spoke, Ellie got a headache, even to the very end. I have a hard time understanding how she could even contemplate falling for someone who gave her a headache every time they spoke! The book overall could have used a bit tighter editing (dangling modifiers and such), but it wasn't so prevalent to detract from the story. Content warning for dark magic--I read an arc (and didn't get the full blurb) and didn't realize the female main character was a sorceress and that both characters used dark magic throughout the book. I would have passed on this one had I known. (Since I received an arc, I wanted to finish the book to give it a full review. The dark magic part would be my only reason not to reread this book, and since magic is a "me" thing, not an objective negative, I didn't take off stars for the rating.)
Mashups can be tricky, but I felt like there was enough of the Dancing Princesses story to warrant this being more than just an Alice in Wonderland retelling. I did very much enjoy all the upside-down and inside-out Easter eggs from Alice in Wonderland. Definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes an unexpected angle to a popular fairy tale and who doesn't care about the magic aspect.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am not entirely sure how I feel about this book. I really liked all of the characters, but I am still deciding how I feel about the plot.
What I liked:
❤️I really liked all of the characters. Rylan was my favorite character in the book. I loved his Mischievous personality and little eccentricities. He is so funny. I also liked Ellie: she is feisty and strong and I like her character growth in the story. There is also a marvelous cast of side characters that adds to that magical, yet wacky, Wonderland feel.
❤️How Ryland controls his magic. I think it was a really clever magic system. I also like how concious he is about how he uses his magic...
❤️The Wonderland creatures....need I say more?
❤️ soulmate trope 😍😍😍
❤️lots of funny/witty banter
❤️charaacrer growth.
What I didn't like:
🖤 the character using dark magic after redemption/growth. I think it would have better not to specify that it was dark magic. Yes they were using it for a good reason, but as a Christian the mention of dark magic from a protagonist made me uncomfortable.
🖤there were parts of this story that felt very heavily influenced by once upon a time....which is a show I love, but it made it feel a little less creative
Overall, I really did enjoy the book, even if the once upon a time vibes gave away what was going to happen. I really loved Ryland, his backstreet, his wit and his michevious pranks. I liked Ellie as well, especially her growth and feisty/snarky retorts.
I would recommend this book to those who enjoy Alice in Wonderland and enjoyed OUAT and are looking for similar vibes.
♠️protective mmc
♠️ strong fmc
♠️soulmates
♠️character growth
♠️animal companion
♠️magic creatures
♠️funny banter
♠️nowhere else to go
♠️quirky, cinnamon roll mmc
♠️feisty, grumpy fmc
♠️age gap (magical)
♠️working together on a mission
♠️villain story
I received an ARC from the Author. All Thoughts and opinions are my own.
What I liked:
❤️I really liked all of the characters. Rylan was my favorite character in the book. I loved his Mischievous personality and little eccentricities. He is so funny. I also liked Ellie: she is feisty and strong and I like her character growth in the story. There is also a marvelous cast of side characters that adds to that magical, yet wacky, Wonderland feel.
❤️How Ryland controls his magic. I think it was a really clever magic system. I also like how concious he is about how he uses his magic...
❤️The Wonderland creatures....need I say more?
❤️ soulmate trope 😍😍😍
❤️lots of funny/witty banter
❤️charaacrer growth.
What I didn't like:
🖤 the character using dark magic after redemption/growth. I think it would have better not to specify that it was dark magic. Yes they were using it for a good reason, but as a Christian the mention of dark magic from a protagonist made me uncomfortable.
🖤there were parts of this story that felt very heavily influenced by once upon a time....which is a show I love, but it made it feel a little less creative
Overall, I really did enjoy the book, even if the once upon a time vibes gave away what was going to happen. I really loved Ryland, his backstreet, his wit and his michevious pranks. I liked Ellie as well, especially her growth and feisty/snarky retorts.
I would recommend this book to those who enjoy Alice in Wonderland and enjoyed OUAT and are looking for similar vibes.
♠️protective mmc
♠️ strong fmc
♠️soulmates
♠️character growth
♠️animal companion
♠️magic creatures
♠️funny banter
♠️nowhere else to go
♠️quirky, cinnamon roll mmc
♠️feisty, grumpy fmc
♠️age gap (magical)
♠️working together on a mission
♠️villain story
I received an ARC from the Author. All Thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 5, 2026
Falling for the Mad King is the sixth book in the To Win A Dark Heart multiauthor series where two characters we usually know as villains fall for each other and get their happy end. In some cases these villains are just misunderstood and there’s a good explanation for their crimes, in others they start as actually quite evil and have a real redemption arc.
In this novella Rylan, the King of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland, falls in love with Ellie, the sorceress who cursed the 12 dancing princesses and is banished to the Mad Lands.
In true Wonderland fashion, there’s a lot of madness going on. It made for a really intriguing and funny read, although I have to admit that this complete lack of sense and logic also made it hard sometimes to follow the story and it took me some time to understand what was going on.
Honestly, this book was so full of utter nonsense that I’m not even sure to which category of villains these two belong, but that didn’t impact how much I enjoyed the book and surprisingly also the romance between Rylan and Ellie, who start their story as enemies (and not in the romcom sense, where both want the same work project…) but learn to care for each other much more than they wanted to.
This was a wild adventure and I would definitely recommend this book if you love the craziness that is Alice in Wonderland. While this is a completely new and unique story with its own characters and magic system, you will definitely find the same amount of weirdness here.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
In this novella Rylan, the King of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland, falls in love with Ellie, the sorceress who cursed the 12 dancing princesses and is banished to the Mad Lands.
In true Wonderland fashion, there’s a lot of madness going on. It made for a really intriguing and funny read, although I have to admit that this complete lack of sense and logic also made it hard sometimes to follow the story and it took me some time to understand what was going on.
Honestly, this book was so full of utter nonsense that I’m not even sure to which category of villains these two belong, but that didn’t impact how much I enjoyed the book and surprisingly also the romance between Rylan and Ellie, who start their story as enemies (and not in the romcom sense, where both want the same work project…) but learn to care for each other much more than they wanted to.
This was a wild adventure and I would definitely recommend this book if you love the craziness that is Alice in Wonderland. While this is a completely new and unique story with its own characters and magic system, you will definitely find the same amount of weirdness here.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
February 18, 2026
Honestly, there was just way too much madness in this book for it to be an enjoyable read – it felt like I was in a room full of six-year-olds on a sugar rush. The heart of the story (pun intended) is good and kept me reading despite all the madness and not particularly liking the main characters. I didn’t like any of the characters as I found no redeeming qualities or reasons for them to have acted as they had. The only thing that made sense was Rylan’s roses and fear of touch.
The imagery from the original Alice in Wonderland was used in interesting, if sometimes deranged, ways. The way the heart was used and the magical twist about it in the end felt vaguely familiar from something else I’d read, though I can’t remember where.
Alice was a villain for the sake of being a villain: her cause wasn’t clearly defined other than she thought Rylan to be a tyrant (which wasn’t too clearly shown, either). I might have missed something in the madness…
Ellie’s whole personality was “scorned sorceress” until she embraced the madness of Wonderland. I’m not sold on the how’s and why’s of her cursing the princesses… At her age she ought to have more emotional maturity than a heartbroken teenager.
Rylan seemed to be insane just for the sake of being insane. His use of the roses and the reasons behind it was the only true show of character that made him interesting.
The romance between Ryland and Ellie made weird sense…
If you want a trippy read, you’ll probably enjoy this.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
The imagery from the original Alice in Wonderland was used in interesting, if sometimes deranged, ways. The way the heart was used and the magical twist about it in the end felt vaguely familiar from something else I’d read, though I can’t remember where.
Alice was a villain for the sake of being a villain: her cause wasn’t clearly defined other than she thought Rylan to be a tyrant (which wasn’t too clearly shown, either). I might have missed something in the madness…
Ellie’s whole personality was “scorned sorceress” until she embraced the madness of Wonderland. I’m not sold on the how’s and why’s of her cursing the princesses… At her age she ought to have more emotional maturity than a heartbroken teenager.
Rylan seemed to be insane just for the sake of being insane. His use of the roses and the reasons behind it was the only true show of character that made him interesting.
The romance between Ryland and Ellie made weird sense…
If you want a trippy read, you’ll probably enjoy this.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such an amazing and heartfelt no-spice retelling! The whimsical world-building was vibrant and incredibly descriptive. I especially enjoyed the redemption arcs that both villains went through, and how they intertwined beautifully. The banter and chemistry between King Rylan and Sorceress Ellie were absolute perfection. The author took the magic of Wonderland and spun it in a refreshing new way, supported by a cast of delightful side characters (except for the true villain of their stories).
When Alice steals King Rylan's actual heart, Wonderland begins to crumble, and he starts slowly dying. His only hope is to find her and retrieve it before she finds a way to destroy it.
Meanwhile, Sorceress Ellie has been exiled to the Mad Lands with her magic bound for cursing her first love after his betrayal centuries ago. When she's sent to the king of Wonderland, she soon discovers that he's just as mad as the realm he rules and has powerful magic of his own.
As they reluctantly join forces to save his life and return her powers, they begin falling for one another, even if they're too busy bantering to admit it.
Once they come to terms with their own villainous pasts, will they learn to trust themselves and each other?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
When Alice steals King Rylan's actual heart, Wonderland begins to crumble, and he starts slowly dying. His only hope is to find her and retrieve it before she finds a way to destroy it.
Meanwhile, Sorceress Ellie has been exiled to the Mad Lands with her magic bound for cursing her first love after his betrayal centuries ago. When she's sent to the king of Wonderland, she soon discovers that he's just as mad as the realm he rules and has powerful magic of his own.
As they reluctantly join forces to save his life and return her powers, they begin falling for one another, even if they're too busy bantering to admit it.
Once they come to terms with their own villainous pasts, will they learn to trust themselves and each other?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Honest rating is 4.25 stars
This was an eARC copy from BookSirens. Thank you to BookSirens and the Author, Sydney Winward, for the chance to read this book!
The story is a fairy tale retelling with a slight gender swap. We follow the story from a third person perspective centering around both Ellie, our FMC, and Rylan, our MMC. The story is fully YA. There was no explicit content outside of a few clean kisses.
This was a very fun Wonderland retelling. It was enjoyable have a Mad King, although I was initially surprised Alice wasn't the FMC, but merely another character in the story. I also enjoyed Ellie's personality and character development as she became more comfortable with Wonderland and started embracing the chaos. Rylan was an interesting character as someone who truly embraced the madness of Wonderland.
The ebook was a total of 202 pages which made for a very quick read, but it felt like it went by even quicker. The story flowed and kept you moving along with it. I blinked and it felt like I was already halfway through it and then next thing I knew, I was finishing the HEA.
I love retellings and I love a misunderstood villain. This was a quick, fun read to pass a day. This is the sixth book in the To Win a Dark Heart series, but it is able to be read at any time, in any order, which made it easy to work into my TBR.
This was an eARC copy from BookSirens. Thank you to BookSirens and the Author, Sydney Winward, for the chance to read this book!
The story is a fairy tale retelling with a slight gender swap. We follow the story from a third person perspective centering around both Ellie, our FMC, and Rylan, our MMC. The story is fully YA. There was no explicit content outside of a few clean kisses.
This was a very fun Wonderland retelling. It was enjoyable have a Mad King, although I was initially surprised Alice wasn't the FMC, but merely another character in the story. I also enjoyed Ellie's personality and character development as she became more comfortable with Wonderland and started embracing the chaos. Rylan was an interesting character as someone who truly embraced the madness of Wonderland.
The ebook was a total of 202 pages which made for a very quick read, but it felt like it went by even quicker. The story flowed and kept you moving along with it. I blinked and it felt like I was already halfway through it and then next thing I knew, I was finishing the HEA.
I love retellings and I love a misunderstood villain. This was a quick, fun read to pass a day. This is the sixth book in the To Win a Dark Heart series, but it is able to be read at any time, in any order, which made it easy to work into my TBR.
February 22, 2026
This book was fun and a little crazy but that’s wonderland for you.
Rylan and Ellie from two different worlds that technically never should have met.
It was fun to see the king of hearts without his heart and his only hope of finding it being a sorceress thrown into his kingdom from her own.
I loved Rylan and his roses. It was cool finding out what each color represented. I really loved seeing him bloom into the king he was meant to be. He just wanted his heart back from Alice after she stole it literally. He was a fun combination of the Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts that made him the character I love.
Ellie just wanted revenge on the king who broke her heart a few decades ago. Long time to hold a grudge but when you are immortal I guess it makes sense. I loved seeing her give up on her revenge as the story went on because she found something more important.
I adored the banter between these two. They were trying so hard to not let feeling happen and it was funny to read.
I loved all the side characters and just the craziness of wonderland! You never knew what would happen next and it was so much fun to read about.
I really liked the combination of wonderland and 12 dancing princesses. I also really liked the chapter titles they were fun additions to the book.
Overall I really loved this book and this crazy group of characters. I read this book as an arc.
Rylan and Ellie from two different worlds that technically never should have met.
It was fun to see the king of hearts without his heart and his only hope of finding it being a sorceress thrown into his kingdom from her own.
I loved Rylan and his roses. It was cool finding out what each color represented. I really loved seeing him bloom into the king he was meant to be. He just wanted his heart back from Alice after she stole it literally. He was a fun combination of the Mad Hatter and Queen of Hearts that made him the character I love.
Ellie just wanted revenge on the king who broke her heart a few decades ago. Long time to hold a grudge but when you are immortal I guess it makes sense. I loved seeing her give up on her revenge as the story went on because she found something more important.
I adored the banter between these two. They were trying so hard to not let feeling happen and it was funny to read.
I loved all the side characters and just the craziness of wonderland! You never knew what would happen next and it was so much fun to read about.
I really liked the combination of wonderland and 12 dancing princesses. I also really liked the chapter titles they were fun additions to the book.
Overall I really loved this book and this crazy group of characters. I read this book as an arc.
Review of advance copy
Oh. My. Gosh. If you’re looking for a book that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat while making you question your life choices (in a good way, of course), then Falling for the Mad King is your new obsession. I’m talking chaos, secrets, and a love story that’s anything but ordinary.
First off, let’s talk about the Mad King. He’s charming, unpredictable, and oh so dangerous—just the way I like my royalty. Think you've seen crazy before? Think again. The King’s mind is a maze of madness, and yet… you can’t help but be drawn to him. Like a moth to a flame, I’m not even mad about it. And the romance? Oh, it's deliciously complicated. The chemistry between the two main characters is electric—every look, every word feels like it's sparking something explosive. But here's the kicker: you’re never quite sure if this love will heal or destroy. It’s a constant battle of heart and mind, and I’m here for every. single. page.
Sydney Winward really nails the tension between “Is he gonna snap?” and “Can I trust this love?” Add in some insane plot twists, a few dangerous alliances, and a whole lot of drama, and you’ve got a book that you cannot put down
Thank you Booksprout and Booksirens for the arc
March 10, 2026
Wow!! Can I give 10 stars to this one😁 This book truly sent me down the rabbit hole and blew me away! "We're all a bit mad here!" When I started this book and we first entered Wonderful, I thought what had I gotten myself into, you must be a bit mad to read this...haha...but truly the author outdid herself with this one. From immersing you in a world of thinking unlike our own, to leaving little golden nuggets throughout the story, like..."to find where we are going one must lose oneself." How often we get in our own way or growth, so to speak!
I truly came to love Rylan and Ellie. They each challenged each other and also helped the other grow. I couldn't help rooting for them and absolutely loved seeing their story come to a HEA! I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give the best parts away. I highly recommend this delightful book for anyone looking to getting a little lost, going a little insane, but finding sometimes losing yourself is the best thing!!
Thank you for a fantastic read, author Sydney Windward!! I look forward to reading more from you in the future!! It has been a true delight!!!
My Ratings: ❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️
Romance-PG Kisses Only
Language G-no swears
Violence-PG-13 nothing overly graphic
I truly came to love Rylan and Ellie. They each challenged each other and also helped the other grow. I couldn't help rooting for them and absolutely loved seeing their story come to a HEA! I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give the best parts away. I highly recommend this delightful book for anyone looking to getting a little lost, going a little insane, but finding sometimes losing yourself is the best thing!!
Thank you for a fantastic read, author Sydney Windward!! I look forward to reading more from you in the future!! It has been a true delight!!!
My Ratings: ❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️❤️♠️
Romance-PG Kisses Only
Language G-no swears
Violence-PG-13 nothing overly graphic
April 18, 2026
Focused on revenge against the man who broke her heart, Ellie Strife attempts to curse his daughters. Instead, her magic is blocked and she is banished to the Mad Lands. King of the Mad Lands, Rylan Rhapsody, has his own problems. Betrayed by his best friend Alice, his heart has been stolen and his kingdom is in jeopardy. At first, the illogical land and its unpredictable king give Ellie nothing but headaches. But retrieving his heart may be her only hope at regaining her magic. In a world where anything can happen, falling in love is not surprising. When Alice puts both their lives in checkmate, can their love save each other?
A wonderfully whimsical mashup using elements of the 12 Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland, with two villains finding true love. Rylan’s madcap behavior disguises deep trauma caused by his early use of strong magic. As the King of Hearts, Alice perceives him as a tyrant to Wonderland, yet he is not the true villain, as the loyalty of his other friends prove throughout. Ellie starts out portrayed much like Maleficent, yet her actions stem from betrayal and heartbreak. I loved seeing the slow build of the affection between her and Ryland and the softening of her heart. Their willingness to sacrifice for each other was beautifully written. This was my first read by Sydney Winward and I was captivated by her writing.
Thanks to BookSirens for an advanced review copy. This is my voluntary and honest review.
A wonderfully whimsical mashup using elements of the 12 Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland, with two villains finding true love. Rylan’s madcap behavior disguises deep trauma caused by his early use of strong magic. As the King of Hearts, Alice perceives him as a tyrant to Wonderland, yet he is not the true villain, as the loyalty of his other friends prove throughout. Ellie starts out portrayed much like Maleficent, yet her actions stem from betrayal and heartbreak. I loved seeing the slow build of the affection between her and Ryland and the softening of her heart. Their willingness to sacrifice for each other was beautifully written. This was my first read by Sydney Winward and I was captivated by her writing.
Thanks to BookSirens for an advanced review copy. This is my voluntary and honest review.
April 17, 2026
This was a very unique written fantasy romance fairy tale retelling. Delightful tale merging two favorite fairy tales The Twelve Dancing Princesses and Alice in Wonderland. This has a witch without magic and a king without a heart. There is absolute amazing banter between the main characters Rylan and Ellie. Rylan has had his heart stolen without it his health is fading and Wonderland is falling apart. Ellie has lost her powers and been banished to Wonderland. She needs his heart to get her magic back and he needs her to save his kingdom. This is not your typical retelling. It is an enchanting reverse retelling of Alice in Wonderland that you will absolutely love. The chemistry absolutely sneaks up on you with cozy vibes tons of banter and sarcasm to beat all sarcasm. There is some violence in this one such as attempted murder and holding a knife to someone's throat. This is a very enjoyable well written fairy tale retelling that was very unique and different. I enjoyed reading it and definitely want to read more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2026
This is an ARC review
This book was amazing! It made me think of one of my favorite tv series Once Upon a Time (perhaps due to the heart ripping out of chest action)
This book is not necessarily for the light of heart ❤️ but should you wish to read it (which I highly recommend you do) be prepared.
Rylan is your classic cocky mad prince who rules tyrannically like his mother (ok he does have a bit of a heart burried somewhere in there well he did before it was stolen anyway). What am I talking about? Well read the book and find out!
As for Ellie she is suffering from a broken heart and bent on revenge. She’ll do anything to bring the king Melgren of Elyria to his knees. Especially after her first attempt (that we witness at least) ends in failure. In fact if backfires so badly she finds herself banished to the mad lands.
That is where this unlikely duo meet and begin their enemy’s to lovers story that is so entertaining and usually results in some of the best banter. And let’s face it what would a wonderland retelling be if it didn’t have some clever quips.
This book was amazing! It made me think of one of my favorite tv series Once Upon a Time (perhaps due to the heart ripping out of chest action)
This book is not necessarily for the light of heart ❤️ but should you wish to read it (which I highly recommend you do) be prepared.
Rylan is your classic cocky mad prince who rules tyrannically like his mother (ok he does have a bit of a heart burried somewhere in there well he did before it was stolen anyway). What am I talking about? Well read the book and find out!
As for Ellie she is suffering from a broken heart and bent on revenge. She’ll do anything to bring the king Melgren of Elyria to his knees. Especially after her first attempt (that we witness at least) ends in failure. In fact if backfires so badly she finds herself banished to the mad lands.
That is where this unlikely duo meet and begin their enemy’s to lovers story that is so entertaining and usually results in some of the best banter. And let’s face it what would a wonderland retelling be if it didn’t have some clever quips.
February 21, 2026
I was charmed and delighted over and over again through this novella. Even though it is a shorter book, it was full with a multitude of unique characters, detailed backstories, intricate plot lines, descriptive and colorful worlds, and a lovely story of redemption and love.
Despite being about “villains” it was actually a very lighthearted and fun book. There were so many moments I chuckled and smiled to myself as I read. The star of this story is certainly King Rylan Rhapsody, and I have no doubt anyone who reads this story will fall in love with him too.
There were a few things throughout the story that confused me or were never fully explained (we can just assume it is the way of the mad world of Wonderland,) but overall it was a well written, kisses-only romantic and fun reimagining of the stories of the villains The “King” of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland and the sorceress from The Twelve Dancing Princesses. I recommend it to anyone who loves story retellings/mashups, Alice in Wonderland, and clean/spice-free romance with a quirky sense of humor.
Despite being about “villains” it was actually a very lighthearted and fun book. There were so many moments I chuckled and smiled to myself as I read. The star of this story is certainly King Rylan Rhapsody, and I have no doubt anyone who reads this story will fall in love with him too.
There were a few things throughout the story that confused me or were never fully explained (we can just assume it is the way of the mad world of Wonderland,) but overall it was a well written, kisses-only romantic and fun reimagining of the stories of the villains The “King” of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland and the sorceress from The Twelve Dancing Princesses. I recommend it to anyone who loves story retellings/mashups, Alice in Wonderland, and clean/spice-free romance with a quirky sense of humor.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Mad King is a deliciously wicked romp through a fairy tale world where villains are charming, romance is dangerous, and nothing is quite what it seems. Sydney Winward flips the script, inviting readers to root for the “bad guys” while indulging in slow-burn romance, treachery, and dark humor.
At the heart of the story is the Mad King himself — unpredictable, magnetic, and delightfully unhinged. His chemistry with the heroine is charged, messy, and utterly addictive, giving rise to moments of tension, longing, and playful menace. Every interaction feels like a gamble, where surrendering to desire could be thrilling or ruinous.
Winward’s worldbuilding combines familiar fairy tale elements with a darker, morally gray twist. Villainous characters, tangled schemes, and unexpected alliances create a rich, immersive setting that balances danger, humor, and romance in equal measure.
At the heart of the story is the Mad King himself — unpredictable, magnetic, and delightfully unhinged. His chemistry with the heroine is charged, messy, and utterly addictive, giving rise to moments of tension, longing, and playful menace. Every interaction feels like a gamble, where surrendering to desire could be thrilling or ruinous.
Winward’s worldbuilding combines familiar fairy tale elements with a darker, morally gray twist. Villainous characters, tangled schemes, and unexpected alliances create a rich, immersive setting that balances danger, humor, and romance in equal measure.
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