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Backward
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 24, 2026
**Thank you, Dori, for the ARC and the opportunity to have reviewed this (:**
I’m.. actually blown away.
You gave me Alice in Wonderland x Hunger Games and it was done so beautifully that I’m stunned. Literally, just looking at my kindle like ‘what the hell..’
It was mystery and suspense and romance and oh my god.. my mind is melted.
I’m.. actually blown away.
You gave me Alice in Wonderland x Hunger Games and it was done so beautifully that I’m stunned. Literally, just looking at my kindle like ‘what the hell..’
It was mystery and suspense and romance and oh my god.. my mind is melted.
April 13, 2026
I am BLOWN AWAY by this. Holy wow.
If you like Alice in Wonderland, puzzles, trials, romance, unique magic, and found family—these are the books for you. I promise you will not regret it.
Forward and Backward are two halves of the same story told from opposite ends of time, and you are able to read either one first and still get a complete story. I’ve never in my life encountered something this unique, and the Alice in Wonderland aspect on top of that was truly the cherry on top. It was PERFECT. D.N. Hoxa spins such an incredible story and I am foaming at the mouth for the next installment in this series.
I read Backward first, at the author’s recommendation, and I do not regret it one bit. The way you start off with so many questions, and then each answer gets revealed to you slowly throughout Backward, and then more in depth in Forward is just incredible writing. My expectations have never been farther exceeded than with this story.
I fear everyone needs to add this to their tbr immediately😤
If you like Alice in Wonderland, puzzles, trials, romance, unique magic, and found family—these are the books for you. I promise you will not regret it.
Forward and Backward are two halves of the same story told from opposite ends of time, and you are able to read either one first and still get a complete story. I’ve never in my life encountered something this unique, and the Alice in Wonderland aspect on top of that was truly the cherry on top. It was PERFECT. D.N. Hoxa spins such an incredible story and I am foaming at the mouth for the next installment in this series.
I read Backward first, at the author’s recommendation, and I do not regret it one bit. The way you start off with so many questions, and then each answer gets revealed to you slowly throughout Backward, and then more in depth in Forward is just incredible writing. My expectations have never been farther exceeded than with this story.
I fear everyone needs to add this to their tbr immediately😤
April 4, 2026
Arc Review:
I am going to write reviews for both Forward and Backward together since that is how they should be read. I will start with saying that I read Backward first based on the authors suggestions, and I understand how it could be read either way.
The world is a bit crazy, but in a fun way. It is out there with it's Wonderland-esque references and similarities. I did love the world as well as all of the characters involved. It feels both whimsical and mysterious while reading it and will have you questioning everything. Since I did read Backward first, that is where the mystery comes in. I loved reading the story and being super confused, but not lost. Knowing that you were supposed to be confused really had you questioning, wondering, and reading into things. Forward was the opposite. Forward was just a whole bunch of "aha" moments. And "oooohhhh, now i get it!".
With that being said, I did really enjoy these books in either order, and I really thought that the idea and the premise were well thought out and put together. I felt that while having both books played out in different orders was ingenious, it felt a little redundant to me. I am NOT a "re-reader" of books, because once I know the ending I lose interest and can't keep my brain on what I am reading. In this case, no matter which book came first, I knew the final outcome.....even if I didn't know the actual villain and that made it hard to continue for me. Is this enough for me to tell someone else not to read it??? Absolutely not. It was a great book and overall I would suggest you give it a shot.
I am going to write reviews for both Forward and Backward together since that is how they should be read. I will start with saying that I read Backward first based on the authors suggestions, and I understand how it could be read either way.
The world is a bit crazy, but in a fun way. It is out there with it's Wonderland-esque references and similarities. I did love the world as well as all of the characters involved. It feels both whimsical and mysterious while reading it and will have you questioning everything. Since I did read Backward first, that is where the mystery comes in. I loved reading the story and being super confused, but not lost. Knowing that you were supposed to be confused really had you questioning, wondering, and reading into things. Forward was the opposite. Forward was just a whole bunch of "aha" moments. And "oooohhhh, now i get it!".
With that being said, I did really enjoy these books in either order, and I really thought that the idea and the premise were well thought out and put together. I felt that while having both books played out in different orders was ingenious, it felt a little redundant to me. I am NOT a "re-reader" of books, because once I know the ending I lose interest and can't keep my brain on what I am reading. In this case, no matter which book came first, I knew the final outcome.....even if I didn't know the actual villain and that made it hard to continue for me. Is this enough for me to tell someone else not to read it??? Absolutely not. It was a great book and overall I would suggest you give it a shot.
April 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐
⏰ Tick tock tea time my friends! This is a review of 2 books (Forward and Backward). First of all, I want to thank DN Hoxa for the eARCs of these two novels. I have to say I was a little bit skeptical at first about the premise of these books, but I was intrigued. Two books, one told in reverse, one told forward. 🐰Curiouser and curiouser! Alice in Wonderland is one of my favorite stories, so much so that I used it as the basis of a speech I wrote for my high school graduation. This is the first fantasy novel that I’ve read which had some elements of Alice in Wonderland in it. At the author's suggestion, I decided to read the novel Backward first before reading the novel Forward. Although the author did say, you could read the books in either order. Both novels were in Ora’s POV and I was desperate to find out what March was thinking during some of the scenes. I thought some of the language used harkening back to Alice in Wonderland was very clever and the elements that were brought in were similar, but just enough different to make it a totally unique story. Although I’m typically not an insta-love girlie, I was totally on board for the Ora-March chemistry. In Backward it made sense to me because they had supposedly known each other and just forgotten. That really set me up well for reading Forward. The slow burn was slow burning! I do wish I would have gotten some more information about exactly what Silas was up to specifically at the end of Forward. Perhaps we will get a sequel? Regardless, if you like games and trials and unique magic systems, I’m twelve-hours certain you will love these books! **spice rating 🌶️🌶️.5-🌶️🌶️🌶️**
⏰ Tick tock tea time my friends! This is a review of 2 books (Forward and Backward). First of all, I want to thank DN Hoxa for the eARCs of these two novels. I have to say I was a little bit skeptical at first about the premise of these books, but I was intrigued. Two books, one told in reverse, one told forward. 🐰Curiouser and curiouser! Alice in Wonderland is one of my favorite stories, so much so that I used it as the basis of a speech I wrote for my high school graduation. This is the first fantasy novel that I’ve read which had some elements of Alice in Wonderland in it. At the author's suggestion, I decided to read the novel Backward first before reading the novel Forward. Although the author did say, you could read the books in either order. Both novels were in Ora’s POV and I was desperate to find out what March was thinking during some of the scenes. I thought some of the language used harkening back to Alice in Wonderland was very clever and the elements that were brought in were similar, but just enough different to make it a totally unique story. Although I’m typically not an insta-love girlie, I was totally on board for the Ora-March chemistry. In Backward it made sense to me because they had supposedly known each other and just forgotten. That really set me up well for reading Forward. The slow burn was slow burning! I do wish I would have gotten some more information about exactly what Silas was up to specifically at the end of Forward. Perhaps we will get a sequel? Regardless, if you like games and trials and unique magic systems, I’m twelve-hours certain you will love these books! **spice rating 🌶️🌶️.5-🌶️🌶️🌶️**
April 9, 2026
3.75
“‘…break what you fixed and fix what you broke. Un-everything…’”
🐇 Alice in Wonderland meets Catching Fire 🔥
Backwards is one of two books in the Clockrealm Chronicles by D.N. Hoxa. I opted to read Backwards first, mostly because the idea of moving backwards through time was fascinating to me. I’m not disappointed. Though I haven’t read Forwards yet (I’m off to start it as soon as I finish here) I think it’s going to be fascinating to see how the forward perspective aligns or misaligns with Backwards.
This was the most superb exploration of lost memories in a book I have yet experienced. The frustration, pain, and longing these characters experienced was brought to life.
I think this is going to be an unpopular opinion, but what brought this down for me was the March/Ora romance. March gave me the ick 80% of the novel. I also felt the spicey scenes in this one were unnecessary. The report between March and Ora was significant enough without the scenes so they ended up filling more like filler to me. Additionally, the characters read younger to me than they were described (18).
“‘…break what you fixed and fix what you broke. Un-everything…’”
🐇 Alice in Wonderland meets Catching Fire 🔥
Backwards is one of two books in the Clockrealm Chronicles by D.N. Hoxa. I opted to read Backwards first, mostly because the idea of moving backwards through time was fascinating to me. I’m not disappointed. Though I haven’t read Forwards yet (I’m off to start it as soon as I finish here) I think it’s going to be fascinating to see how the forward perspective aligns or misaligns with Backwards.
This was the most superb exploration of lost memories in a book I have yet experienced. The frustration, pain, and longing these characters experienced was brought to life.
I think this is going to be an unpopular opinion, but what brought this down for me was the March/Ora romance. March gave me the ick 80% of the novel. I also felt the spicey scenes in this one were unnecessary. The report between March and Ora was significant enough without the scenes so they ended up filling more like filler to me. Additionally, the characters read younger to me than they were described (18).
April 13, 2026
Absolutely loved this series!
I devoured this series like a hungry time rabbit in Wonderland, with all the twists and turns of The Hunger Games vibes. From the onset, I was captivated and Ora (MFC) hands down was my favorite!
The world building was absolutely brilliant. The kingdom (setting), the (fantasy) magic, the trial (elements), all wacky and wonderful, in a good way. The story was a real treat while the plot moved along seamlessly, without skipping a beat. The unique writing style kept things fresh, without being overly done and gave as much depth in all the right areas.
The characters, they were a colorful bunch! Despite the multitude of character dynamics and moving pieces, each character was given their own moment to shine, and it retained its zest without losing its focus.
Least I say more probably not! NO SPOILERS, but this was a thrill ride for the books, and let's just say these two novellas are a masterclass in magical realism and a must-read for anyone looking for a fantastical escape.
I devoured this series like a hungry time rabbit in Wonderland, with all the twists and turns of The Hunger Games vibes. From the onset, I was captivated and Ora (MFC) hands down was my favorite!
The world building was absolutely brilliant. The kingdom (setting), the (fantasy) magic, the trial (elements), all wacky and wonderful, in a good way. The story was a real treat while the plot moved along seamlessly, without skipping a beat. The unique writing style kept things fresh, without being overly done and gave as much depth in all the right areas.
The characters, they were a colorful bunch! Despite the multitude of character dynamics and moving pieces, each character was given their own moment to shine, and it retained its zest without losing its focus.
Least I say more probably not! NO SPOILERS, but this was a thrill ride for the books, and let's just say these two novellas are a masterclass in magical realism and a must-read for anyone looking for a fantastical escape.
April 3, 2026
ARC Review: I'm reviewing both Forward and Backward by D.N. Hoxa together since they're a set. Not a duology, a true set. It is common in fantasy books to come across a unique world or characters. It is truly rare to come across a unique concept, and that is what D.N. Hoxa has done. Forward is a fun and enjoyable book, but Backword is a true masterpiece. The same characters and events but in reverse? I loved it. There truly is no first or second book, they can be read in either order, hence why I called it a set instead of a duology, but here are my recommendations based on your preferences.
If you have a hard time following timelines: Read Forward first
If you like the giant reveal be at the end: Read Backward first
If you like the relationship to end on a positive note: Read Forward first
If you like to go for a wild ride: Read Backward first
The fun part is, whichever order you choose you can't be wrong! It is the true brilliance of these books.
If you have a hard time following timelines: Read Forward first
If you like the giant reveal be at the end: Read Backward first
If you like the relationship to end on a positive note: Read Forward first
If you like to go for a wild ride: Read Backward first
The fun part is, whichever order you choose you can't be wrong! It is the true brilliance of these books.
April 8, 2026
Backward is one half of a whole and introduces readers to a uniquely imagined world that often parallels that of a young Miss and her adventures in Wonderland.
When the Clockrealm’s magic supply runs low is when the turning trials begin.
The twelve that wake in this first book cannot remember what has gone before.
They completed the Turning trials and wake to find they won but because of a curse have lost those memories, and must unwin to regain what has been lost.
But what is real and what is a lie?
Their story is an interesting one and a wildly crafted puzzle just begging to be solved.
A well written and quite engaging read I was completely fascinated by this stories concept and execution because no matter where you begin backward or forward you are bound to be captivated as you are being pulled into it’s magical depths.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When the Clockrealm’s magic supply runs low is when the turning trials begin.
The twelve that wake in this first book cannot remember what has gone before.
They completed the Turning trials and wake to find they won but because of a curse have lost those memories, and must unwin to regain what has been lost.
But what is real and what is a lie?
Their story is an interesting one and a wildly crafted puzzle just begging to be solved.
A well written and quite engaging read I was completely fascinated by this stories concept and execution because no matter where you begin backward or forward you are bound to be captivated as you are being pulled into it’s magical depths.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2026
Backward is a unique story. The author wrote this set if two books so that neither was to be read first or second. They are interchangeable. The author did write Backward first, and suggests to read it that way if you want to be part of the madness. A very interesting concept that I've never seen done before. This is loosely based off Alice in Wonderland, but not a retelling. It is a mix of Wonderland meets Maze Runner.
That being said, I had a really hard time getting into this book. Things were confusing, strange language being used. I even thought about quitting 50 pages in. I'm glad I didn't. I went into it with a different mindset. Solving clues and puzzles as they came along. Going through the trials with the contestants. Then their stories grew. Who they were and why became more evident. There's love, confusion, peril, adventure and more. I knew the end was coming, but even when it did, I was excited to start on Forward. Ok, now I've read Forward. I am 100% happy that I read Backward 1st. You catch so many little things from it. I can't wait for the next book! Thank you to the author and publisher for gifting me the ARCs for my honest review.
That being said, I had a really hard time getting into this book. Things were confusing, strange language being used. I even thought about quitting 50 pages in. I'm glad I didn't. I went into it with a different mindset. Solving clues and puzzles as they came along. Going through the trials with the contestants. Then their stories grew. Who they were and why became more evident. There's love, confusion, peril, adventure and more. I knew the end was coming, but even when it did, I was excited to start on Forward. Ok, now I've read Forward. I am 100% happy that I read Backward 1st. You catch so many little things from it. I can't wait for the next book! Thank you to the author and publisher for gifting me the ARCs for my honest review.
March 31, 2026
Reading forward first gave me a vision of what took place. The opportunity to relive the events, essentially backward. Arguing in my head with the characters on rights and wrongs. Furious at some actions but absolutely understanding them and their emotions. Watching it unfold and hoping with everything in me that it'd all come to a head. I truly hope there's more to come with this one. Reading Backwards first would have made Forward seem like more of a blessing but I made my choice and although I'm sad it's over, I'm happy I've gotten to enjoy that world in my chosen direction.
April 11, 2026
Backward Book 1 of The Clockrealm Chronicles by D.N. Hoxa is part one of a time- travel duology and is a total mind-blowing, confusing on purpose, magical story with great characters and unique Alice in Wonderlandesque worldbuilding. The author recommends reading this book first but it's up to the reader but I have to agree. This is such a twisted and wonderfully puzzling story...loved it!
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.
April 11, 2026
Really interesting concept & having just finished Backward I can't wait to start Forward!
We view the trials & the characters from their same viewpoint as they don't know what has happened to them either. Always a sense of what is real & what isn't & who to trust... Enjoyed reading this & intrigued to go forward now & see what happens! Would have liked March's pov too not just Ora's.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We view the trials & the characters from their same viewpoint as they don't know what has happened to them either. Always a sense of what is real & what isn't & who to trust... Enjoyed reading this & intrigued to go forward now & see what happens! Would have liked March's pov too not just Ora's.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2026
I think this is my new favorite book from.
Hoxa. There's a ton in this fantasy world about time. Loved all the little time details in here. There's just so much happening, all the yearning, the suspense, the unending thrill. Loved the storyline in the book- super imaginative. I'm going to read Forward next and I can't wait to see what happens.
Hoxa. There's a ton in this fantasy world about time. Loved all the little time details in here. There's just so much happening, all the yearning, the suspense, the unending thrill. Loved the storyline in the book- super imaginative. I'm going to read Forward next and I can't wait to see what happens.
April 14, 2026
Unique & Outstanding
Wow, I have never read anything like it, that is a compliment! This story had my mind running in circles, but it was fun and I really enjoyed the experience. I am excited to read Forward next. I Loved this twisty tale, and I highly recommend it! No Spoilers!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, I have never read anything like it, that is a compliment! This story had my mind running in circles, but it was fun and I really enjoyed the experience. I am excited to read Forward next. I Loved this twisty tale, and I highly recommend it! No Spoilers!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2026
Fall down the rabbit hole backwards OR forwards 💚💚 this was such a unique way to tell a story!
Two books…..one story. Backwards or Forwards…Forwards or Backwards….we’re all mad here 😉
Two books…..one story. Backwards or Forwards…Forwards or Backwards….we’re all mad here 😉
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews