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The Twisted and the Brave #1
Lost in Wonderland
Monsters, serial killers, and imaginary friends—being a Wonderlander can be murder...
Once upon a time, Kayla was lost. Then she found Wonderland, but not the one you know. Run by ex-government agents and funded by an eccentric Silicon Valley billionaire, this Wonderland is the name of a collective of highly trained vigilantes who hunt serial killers. Now Kayla, aka Mouse, works tirelessly alongside her fellow Wonderlanders, Rabbit and Cheshire, baiting dangerous murderers. But even her extensive training hasn’t prepared her for the return of her older brother…
Shilo has spent most of his life in an insane asylum, convinced his mother was abducted by a sinister Alaskan monster who lures the lost away to feast upon their flesh. And now he’s certain that his sister is in the same monster’s crosshairs. But if Shilo is going to save what’s left of his family, he’ll have to convince his sister that maybe, just maybe, we’re all a little mad.
Once upon a time, Kayla was lost. Then she found Wonderland, but not the one you know. Run by ex-government agents and funded by an eccentric Silicon Valley billionaire, this Wonderland is the name of a collective of highly trained vigilantes who hunt serial killers. Now Kayla, aka Mouse, works tirelessly alongside her fellow Wonderlanders, Rabbit and Cheshire, baiting dangerous murderers. But even her extensive training hasn’t prepared her for the return of her older brother…
Shilo has spent most of his life in an insane asylum, convinced his mother was abducted by a sinister Alaskan monster who lures the lost away to feast upon their flesh. And now he’s certain that his sister is in the same monster’s crosshairs. But if Shilo is going to save what’s left of his family, he’ll have to convince his sister that maybe, just maybe, we’re all a little mad.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2016
2 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Nicky Peacock
39 books125 followersI'm and author of both YA and adult urban fantasy and horror. I have over 35 short stories published in anthologies - my latest is included in Little Brown Book Group's Mammoth Book of Jack the Ripper Stories.
I currently have 2 YA series with the publisher, Evernight Teen:
Battle of the Undead (3 books so far: Traitors' Gate, Bad Blood, Bad Timing) a vampires VS zombies urban fantasy
Twisted and the Brave (first book, Lost in Wonderland out April 16) Dark thrillers with a classic children's literature twist and a dash of the supernatural.
To learn more about me and my books please see my blog: http://nickypeacockauthor.wordpress.com
I currently have 2 YA series with the publisher, Evernight Teen:
Battle of the Undead (3 books so far: Traitors' Gate, Bad Blood, Bad Timing) a vampires VS zombies urban fantasy
Twisted and the Brave (first book, Lost in Wonderland out April 16) Dark thrillers with a classic children's literature twist and a dash of the supernatural.
To learn more about me and my books please see my blog: http://nickypeacockauthor.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 12, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review on NetGalley. Thank you to the author, Nicky Peacock, and the publisher, Evernight Teen, for this opportunity.
Well this short tale was most certainly curioser and curioser. I anticipated a fantastical tale, akin to the original Alice's Adventures in Wonderland & Other Stories tales it is rendered from, but what was delivered managed to be both dark, humerus, contemporary, fantastical, thrilling and mysterious!
Our protagonist, Kayla A.K.A Mouse, after the murder of her mother, the suicide of her father and the incarceration of her brother into a psychiatric unit, finds herself orphaned and alone. Taken in by ex-government agents, she becomes part of Wonderland - trained assassins assisting in the capture and death of some of the most deadly criminals to stalk the world.
Without the Alice references, this would have been a thrilling tale, full of murder, suspense and intrigue, but that it managed to include all that as well as staying true to a lot of the original tale was phenomenal. I enjoyed reading this and discovering the lines taken from the first text or the references that littered the entire story. This is undoubtedly one clever book!
The only downfall is that it wasn't longer! At only just over 100 pages, I felt that some of the criminal captures detailed could have been given far more focus and plot progression. I wanted the suspense to build and the gory details of the criminal's demise to be drawn out rather than slotted into just a few pages.This is still a strong first installment and I can't wait to see what the rest of the series holds!
Well this short tale was most certainly curioser and curioser. I anticipated a fantastical tale, akin to the original Alice's Adventures in Wonderland & Other Stories tales it is rendered from, but what was delivered managed to be both dark, humerus, contemporary, fantastical, thrilling and mysterious!
Our protagonist, Kayla A.K.A Mouse, after the murder of her mother, the suicide of her father and the incarceration of her brother into a psychiatric unit, finds herself orphaned and alone. Taken in by ex-government agents, she becomes part of Wonderland - trained assassins assisting in the capture and death of some of the most deadly criminals to stalk the world.
Without the Alice references, this would have been a thrilling tale, full of murder, suspense and intrigue, but that it managed to include all that as well as staying true to a lot of the original tale was phenomenal. I enjoyed reading this and discovering the lines taken from the first text or the references that littered the entire story. This is undoubtedly one clever book!
The only downfall is that it wasn't longer! At only just over 100 pages, I felt that some of the criminal captures detailed could have been given far more focus and plot progression. I wanted the suspense to build and the gory details of the criminal's demise to be drawn out rather than slotted into just a few pages.This is still a strong first installment and I can't wait to see what the rest of the series holds!
February 18, 2018
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Definitely not the Wonderland that Alice found! This time out that rabbit hole is lined with barbed wire as monsters and killers fall to the vigilante justice group known as Wonderland. A little dark, a little twisted, and definitely intriguing, Nicky Peacock’s LOST IN WONDERLAND is a briefly told introduction to the world of crime, punishment and retribution. Meet some fascinating and quirky characters, discover an unusual “family” unit that brings lost children into the fold and trains them to take justice into their own hands.
Run by ex government agents, funded by a wealthy tycoon, meet characters like Mouse, who is trained to trap the bad guys and take them down without remorse.
Just a little too short for my taste, there IS a huge story to tell as indicated by the number of characters introduced and the tendrils of each of their stories briefly described. A good start to a series for young adults that is not too dark, as an unlikely group form their own “super family” support system. More of a teaser than a full novel, I see lots of action and trials to come!
I received a complimentary copy from Evernight Teen!
Series: The Twisted and the Brave - Book 1
Publisher: Evernight Teen (April 14, 2016)
Publication Date: April 14, 2016
Genre: YA Fantasy Suspense
Print Length: 124 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Definitely not the Wonderland that Alice found! This time out that rabbit hole is lined with barbed wire as monsters and killers fall to the vigilante justice group known as Wonderland. A little dark, a little twisted, and definitely intriguing, Nicky Peacock’s LOST IN WONDERLAND is a briefly told introduction to the world of crime, punishment and retribution. Meet some fascinating and quirky characters, discover an unusual “family” unit that brings lost children into the fold and trains them to take justice into their own hands.
Run by ex government agents, funded by a wealthy tycoon, meet characters like Mouse, who is trained to trap the bad guys and take them down without remorse.
Just a little too short for my taste, there IS a huge story to tell as indicated by the number of characters introduced and the tendrils of each of their stories briefly described. A good start to a series for young adults that is not too dark, as an unlikely group form their own “super family” support system. More of a teaser than a full novel, I see lots of action and trials to come!
I received a complimentary copy from Evernight Teen!
Series: The Twisted and the Brave - Book 1
Publisher: Evernight Teen (April 14, 2016)
Publication Date: April 14, 2016
Genre: YA Fantasy Suspense
Print Length: 124 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 14, 2016
3.5 Stars
I am always up for a good twisted and dark retelling but this story, this story was not at all what I was prepared for.
Yes it was dark and twisted but not at all in the way that I was expecting. It wasn't another retelling, in fact it really was its very own story in all ways that count.
It was a nice take on the world of assassins that just also happened to follow characters of sorts from the original story with a light paranormal twist thrown in for fun.
It was a bit gritty, a bit dark, and a whole lot of fun. It was everything I wasn't expecting and something I didn't even know I wanted. All in all, a fun new take on a classic.
I am always up for a good twisted and dark retelling but this story, this story was not at all what I was prepared for.
Yes it was dark and twisted but not at all in the way that I was expecting. It wasn't another retelling, in fact it really was its very own story in all ways that count.
It was a nice take on the world of assassins that just also happened to follow characters of sorts from the original story with a light paranormal twist thrown in for fun.
It was a bit gritty, a bit dark, and a whole lot of fun. It was everything I wasn't expecting and something I didn't even know I wanted. All in all, a fun new take on a classic.
September 17, 2020
Thank you for the copy, NetGallery.
I'm a huge Alice and Wonderland fan and love retellings. With that said, this book kind of let me down.
I don't have a lot to say so I'm going to keep it short and to the point.
This book could have gone without the references to Alice, it was kind of predictable and it was very rushed. Nothing really developed and detail was lacking. When my heart should have been racing, I was yawning. It should have been more thrilling since it is labeled a thriller.
Just not a fan. I hope someone enjoys it!
I'm a huge Alice and Wonderland fan and love retellings. With that said, this book kind of let me down.
I don't have a lot to say so I'm going to keep it short and to the point.
This book could have gone without the references to Alice, it was kind of predictable and it was very rushed. Nothing really developed and detail was lacking. When my heart should have been racing, I was yawning. It should have been more thrilling since it is labeled a thriller.
Just not a fan. I hope someone enjoys it!
July 20, 2016
Kayla now goes by the name of Mouse and has found herself a home in Wonderland. But this isn't the Wonderland that we know, it's the name of a group of highly trained vigilantes who hunt serial killers, run by ex-government agents and funded by an eccentric Silicon Valley billionaire. Mouse works alongside her fellow Wonderlanders, Rabbit and Cheshire, baiting dangerous murderers.
As dangerous as Mouse's life is she's completely unprepared to face her own brother when he shows up. Shilo has spent most of his life in an insane asylum convinced his mother was abducted by a monster and now that monster is after his family again. Mouse is used to human killers that are monster but is a bit hesitant to believe Shilo that there are real monsters out there.
Lost in Wonderland is a retelling but one that is the type that I personally enjoy when it borrows a few things from the original to make you remember but goes off on it's own path. This definitely went way off the path bringing serial killers into the mix and turning this into a rather dark Wonderland but I quite enjoyed the originality.
The feel of the book stays true to the original story of Wonderland. The characters had their rather eccentric feel and the book could go into a bit of weirdness here and there but it just felt right and kept the feel you'd expect even with a whole new story line.
Overall, great job coming up with a whole new twisted version of a classic story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
As dangerous as Mouse's life is she's completely unprepared to face her own brother when he shows up. Shilo has spent most of his life in an insane asylum convinced his mother was abducted by a monster and now that monster is after his family again. Mouse is used to human killers that are monster but is a bit hesitant to believe Shilo that there are real monsters out there.
Lost in Wonderland is a retelling but one that is the type that I personally enjoy when it borrows a few things from the original to make you remember but goes off on it's own path. This definitely went way off the path bringing serial killers into the mix and turning this into a rather dark Wonderland but I quite enjoyed the originality.
The feel of the book stays true to the original story of Wonderland. The characters had their rather eccentric feel and the book could go into a bit of weirdness here and there but it just felt right and kept the feel you'd expect even with a whole new story line.
Overall, great job coming up with a whole new twisted version of a classic story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
April 12, 2017
I was pleasantly surprised by this.
More in-depth spoiler free review: https://amberinoface.wordpress.com/20...
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley.
More in-depth spoiler free review: https://amberinoface.wordpress.com/20...
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley.
June 3, 2016
When Kayla and her brother Shilo were kids they saw how a monster took their mother. Shilo ran so hard to keep up and try to save his mother that he failed to protect Kayla. Their dad couldn't take the pain after his wife died and he chose to end his own life. Leaving Kayla and Shilo behind as orphans. Kayla found a new place with her foster parents in Wonderland. Shilo has been in an asylum ever since.
In Wonderland there are no rules. Everyone is trained to take down murderers and Kayla (in her new life known as Mouse) is very good at her job. Together with her foster siblings Cheshire and Rabbit they take down serial killers when the normal police department fails. Mouse looks young even though she is already nineteen years old. With the right clothes she still looks like a little girl. Once she was vulnerable, but now she is a force to be reckoned with.
Shilo has forgotten how life used to be outside the asylum. Because of his fear of the monster he is in no hurry to leave. He also has an imaginary friend who helps him through the days and also encourages him to find a way to get back to the outside world. The monster has tasted Kayla's blood and the time has come for him to collect his prize. Shilo knows that he has to step up to protect her and to finish what he failed to do in the past.
Lost in Wonderland is dark, intense and twisted. I really liked all the references to Alice in Wonderland. Because of that it made me feel like I was reading a fairytale which crossed over to the dark side. The characters all have their own strengths and weaknesses. Because of the fact that Nicky Peacock includes both they feel real.
I have read other books written by Nicky Peacock and she never fails to amaze me with her way of telling a story. She keeps me interested until the very last lines. She's leaving little clues within every chapter and because of them I didn't want to stop reading. If you have never read anything by Nicky Peacock you should give her stories a try. If you liked her previous books you should definitely pick up this one as well. I highly recommend any of her books and advise you to read them when the sun goes down. I think the cover of Lost In Wonderland is just as fantastic as the story.
In Wonderland there are no rules. Everyone is trained to take down murderers and Kayla (in her new life known as Mouse) is very good at her job. Together with her foster siblings Cheshire and Rabbit they take down serial killers when the normal police department fails. Mouse looks young even though she is already nineteen years old. With the right clothes she still looks like a little girl. Once she was vulnerable, but now she is a force to be reckoned with.
Shilo has forgotten how life used to be outside the asylum. Because of his fear of the monster he is in no hurry to leave. He also has an imaginary friend who helps him through the days and also encourages him to find a way to get back to the outside world. The monster has tasted Kayla's blood and the time has come for him to collect his prize. Shilo knows that he has to step up to protect her and to finish what he failed to do in the past.
Lost in Wonderland is dark, intense and twisted. I really liked all the references to Alice in Wonderland. Because of that it made me feel like I was reading a fairytale which crossed over to the dark side. The characters all have their own strengths and weaknesses. Because of the fact that Nicky Peacock includes both they feel real.
I have read other books written by Nicky Peacock and she never fails to amaze me with her way of telling a story. She keeps me interested until the very last lines. She's leaving little clues within every chapter and because of them I didn't want to stop reading. If you have never read anything by Nicky Peacock you should give her stories a try. If you liked her previous books you should definitely pick up this one as well. I highly recommend any of her books and advise you to read them when the sun goes down. I think the cover of Lost In Wonderland is just as fantastic as the story.
June 22, 2016
Quite a twist to the Wonderland we all know and love. I enjoyed the flashbacks to the original book and movie with the little quotes and similarities in characters and happenings. Shilo and Kayla are devastated at the beginning of the story when they lose their mother to the Alaskan monster in their hometown. Shilo is sent to the insane asylum and Kayla ends up in Wonderland with foster parents. She becomes Mouse who is a trained vigilante righting wrongs. Eventually Mouse ends up in Alaska again and she and Shilo are reunited. Together will they figure out what has happened to a friend, or will they come to realizations too late to help? With the help of his imaginary friend and a little guidance from a new one, Shilo has to be strong for Kayla.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
May 7, 2016
Mouse has been trained most of her life to bait and trap serial killers. Her mission is to save lives of other potential victims they may find. All missions are done in Alice's memory. Meanwhile, her brother is in a mental hospital convinced a monster exists and that it killed their mother.
This book is all kinds of twisted and intense. It's dark yet humorous. To me, it felt like Criminal Minds meets Alice In Wonderland. I absolutely loved it. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. I was captured from the very beginning. I've already recommended it to quite a few people. Needless to say, I fully recommend this. However, I will say that if you don't like violence, this will not be the book for you.
This book is all kinds of twisted and intense. It's dark yet humorous. To me, it felt like Criminal Minds meets Alice In Wonderland. I absolutely loved it. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. I was captured from the very beginning. I've already recommended it to quite a few people. Needless to say, I fully recommend this. However, I will say that if you don't like violence, this will not be the book for you.
February 28, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lost in Wonderland has got to be one of the weirdest books I’ve ever read, and if I’ve read a weirder book than this one, then this is the weirdest book I’ve read this year.
Okay, the book’s weirdness is what intrigued me to read the book in the first place. But let me say just how weird this book really is:
The book starts with a character named Mouse. Honestly, I thought the book started with a legit mouse (it really sounded like one as well). A flipping mouse! Who starts a book with a mouse?! Really, I just got so confused for awhile at the very beginning, so to save everyone else’s sanity, the main character is not actually a mouse.
It’s a reference to some of the characters involved in Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland. After that got cleared out, the plot actually made a lot more sense. (Let’s also keep in mind that I do not remember the synopsis of a book. I read it, I find it interesting, I get the book myself, and then actually read the book. Maybe I’ll remember the synopsis if I’m lucky.)
But anyways, Lost In Wonderland is extremely weird. As in, top of the notch weird. It’s disturbing and gruesome and twisted. But it’s such a good kind of weird, that I think this entire series would be a really cool TV show. Lost In Wonderland is basically Law & Order, CSI - just think of any crime related shows - with a fairy tale twist. I just can’t get how awesome this would be on an actual screen, and I just want to see if Peacock incorporates any other fairy tales or just Alice In Wonderland.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
Lost in Wonderland has got to be one of the weirdest books I’ve ever read, and if I’ve read a weirder book than this one, then this is the weirdest book I’ve read this year.
Okay, the book’s weirdness is what intrigued me to read the book in the first place. But let me say just how weird this book really is:
The book starts with a character named Mouse. Honestly, I thought the book started with a legit mouse (it really sounded like one as well). A flipping mouse! Who starts a book with a mouse?! Really, I just got so confused for awhile at the very beginning, so to save everyone else’s sanity, the main character is not actually a mouse.
It’s a reference to some of the characters involved in Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland. After that got cleared out, the plot actually made a lot more sense. (Let’s also keep in mind that I do not remember the synopsis of a book. I read it, I find it interesting, I get the book myself, and then actually read the book. Maybe I’ll remember the synopsis if I’m lucky.)
But anyways, Lost In Wonderland is extremely weird. As in, top of the notch weird. It’s disturbing and gruesome and twisted. But it’s such a good kind of weird, that I think this entire series would be a really cool TV show. Lost In Wonderland is basically Law & Order, CSI - just think of any crime related shows - with a fairy tale twist. I just can’t get how awesome this would be on an actual screen, and I just want to see if Peacock incorporates any other fairy tales or just Alice In Wonderland.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
August 4, 2016
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review
So, first off, we have the premiss of this book which is hunting serial killers and a possible supernatural flare--two of my favorite things ever! And this book didn't disappoint, it was action packed, and exciting, and held the suspense of the story very well. I loved the illusions of Alice in Wonderland. It's not so much a retelling as a nod to the original story. I'm not really a huge Alice fan myself, but the way it was used in this book was awesome.
Mouse was a likable main character, she was strong and did what she needed to do almost callously, to be honest, and it worked. While I kind of find it a little unrealistic that such young people would be able to hunt and kill serial killers so frequently without actually dying or getting caught by authorities, I loved the premiss. Overall it felt like a kind of off-beat version of Criminal Minds which is totally fine by me.
I also liked the supernatural aspect of the story, which I think fit in really well with it. I had to look up the Kushtaka lore, because I had never heard of it before, but from what I could tell it was pretty well portrayed. And the whole is the monster real or is it not? gave the story an extra flare of suspense.
The only thing I had a problem with is that I wish the story was longer. I really liked what we got to read, but I would have liked more. It read almost like a movie because the chapters were so short they seemed more like scenes, and there wasn't a ton of details given at any one point. The story could easily have been twice as long and not lost any of it's fast pacing. But apart from that, I enjoyed it a lot!
Rating: 3.75/5 stars.
Recommended for: Fans of dark supernatural/suspense and anyone who wanted a mix of the supernatural with your Criminal Minds Ages 16 and up.
So, first off, we have the premiss of this book which is hunting serial killers and a possible supernatural flare--two of my favorite things ever! And this book didn't disappoint, it was action packed, and exciting, and held the suspense of the story very well. I loved the illusions of Alice in Wonderland. It's not so much a retelling as a nod to the original story. I'm not really a huge Alice fan myself, but the way it was used in this book was awesome.
Mouse was a likable main character, she was strong and did what she needed to do almost callously, to be honest, and it worked. While I kind of find it a little unrealistic that such young people would be able to hunt and kill serial killers so frequently without actually dying or getting caught by authorities, I loved the premiss. Overall it felt like a kind of off-beat version of Criminal Minds which is totally fine by me.
I also liked the supernatural aspect of the story, which I think fit in really well with it. I had to look up the Kushtaka lore, because I had never heard of it before, but from what I could tell it was pretty well portrayed. And the whole is the monster real or is it not? gave the story an extra flare of suspense.
The only thing I had a problem with is that I wish the story was longer. I really liked what we got to read, but I would have liked more. It read almost like a movie because the chapters were so short they seemed more like scenes, and there wasn't a ton of details given at any one point. The story could easily have been twice as long and not lost any of it's fast pacing. But apart from that, I enjoyed it a lot!
Rating: 3.75/5 stars.
Recommended for: Fans of dark supernatural/suspense and anyone who wanted a mix of the supernatural with your Criminal Minds Ages 16 and up.
July 21, 2016
"Perhaps I did lose myself in Wonderland, but sometimes being lost can be a good thing. Sometimes it forges you into who you need to be".
What a crazy ride. If you love Wonderland you will love this book: a lot of wonderland namesakes and references on this one, whilest being its own beast. A crazy good one.
Mouse (not her real name) works at Wonderland, a kind of agency that go where police can't to get ride of human monsters. There are other operatives: the Red Queen and King, who act like parents to Mouse, a guy named Cheshire and the albino girl Rabbit. Also there is Hatter, an IT man with lots of money that helps them out.
Shilo is Mouse's brother. He has been at an asylum since he saw a monster take their mother away. In his head he ins't alone as he has an imaginary friend: Mr Custard, that talks to him and gives him directives on how to act to be free of the asylum in order to go help his sister against the same monster that killed their mother.
I am not gonna say much more, as I feel this book is quite unique and don't want to spoil it. It has a good plot, narrated alternatively by diferent characters; it has darkness and also hope; and some happy quirks and humorous streaks. It is a great book in itself, bu lovers of Wonderland will love it ^.^
What a crazy ride. If you love Wonderland you will love this book: a lot of wonderland namesakes and references on this one, whilest being its own beast. A crazy good one.
Mouse (not her real name) works at Wonderland, a kind of agency that go where police can't to get ride of human monsters. There are other operatives: the Red Queen and King, who act like parents to Mouse, a guy named Cheshire and the albino girl Rabbit. Also there is Hatter, an IT man with lots of money that helps them out.
Shilo is Mouse's brother. He has been at an asylum since he saw a monster take their mother away. In his head he ins't alone as he has an imaginary friend: Mr Custard, that talks to him and gives him directives on how to act to be free of the asylum in order to go help his sister against the same monster that killed their mother.
I am not gonna say much more, as I feel this book is quite unique and don't want to spoil it. It has a good plot, narrated alternatively by diferent characters; it has darkness and also hope; and some happy quirks and humorous streaks. It is a great book in itself, bu lovers of Wonderland will love it ^.^
July 15, 2016
This book certainly had the wow factor.
Read my review of Lost in Wonderland at: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
Read my review of Lost in Wonderland at: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
April 21, 2020
Not your typical Alice in wonderland retelling. Actually not an Alice retelling at all. Lost in wonderland is about a couple who used to work for the government and after their 8 year Old is kidnapped and killed, they started wonderland. An operation that uses teens to lure and kill serial killers.
What made me pick this book up?
My mom did actually, she was telling me how I needed to read it, and how good it was. Of course, I'm literally obsessed with anything Alice, and it had Wonderland in it. Which automatically makes you assume Alice in Wonderland.
What do I like about the cover?
It looks a little bit like it was just designed at home. Like from a small publishing company, which there is nothing wrong with that, of course. But I think it could have been done just a little better. I do like the red color pop (we all know how much I love my color pop) And I love Cheshire eyes up at the top. It's not a bad cover, by any means. And once again, it sparks ideas for a photo shoot. It definitely screams Wonderland, and is also very creepy all at once.
What made me read the book?
Like I said, Jenn kept bothering me to read this book, and of course most of the time when Jenn says I need to read something, she's right. I had just read a few heavy books, and wanted something really small that was a quick read. So I picked up off my shelf with the idea that Jenn said to, and also the idea that it was a tiny book and I could finish it in one night. Once I actually read what the book was about, and found out it really isn't about Alice in Wonderland at all, it sounded like a really great idea.
What did I like the most?
I liked the wonderland-esque idea of the book. I really liked that it's a top secret organization called "Wonderland", and that they all have Alice nicknames, like Cheshire, Mouse, and White Rabbit. I also really like the reason why the organization exists, because of a couple who lost their daughter to a serial killer, when she was only 8 years old. Her name was Alice. I also really love Shiloh, and his imaginary friend, Mr. Custard. I enjoyed how fast of a read it was, but I still feel like there could have been more. It still had me on the edge of my seat, needing to know what was happening and why.
What didn't I like?
The main character was a little annoying, in the way she kept bringing up how she didn't have any emotions, and the little girl she once was, was gone. But I can understand why the author did it, to show how she got to where she was in the book. It wasn't enough to dislike the book, just a little bit tiresome at some points. I also wish the book was just a little bit longer. I almost felt like it was too small, in a way that there was so much more that the author could have accomplished and didn't. I would have really enjoyed seeing more of the characters, and read more about the serial killers that they caught (Though I really do love serial killers, so that might be why)
Overall
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, nothing really heavy, but it kept you interested in the book. I cannot wait to read more in the series, and I hope the author keeps writing them. She could easily turn this into a 10 book series with different characters and different killers, and it would still continue to be an interesting read.
What made me pick this book up?
My mom did actually, she was telling me how I needed to read it, and how good it was. Of course, I'm literally obsessed with anything Alice, and it had Wonderland in it. Which automatically makes you assume Alice in Wonderland.
What do I like about the cover?
It looks a little bit like it was just designed at home. Like from a small publishing company, which there is nothing wrong with that, of course. But I think it could have been done just a little better. I do like the red color pop (we all know how much I love my color pop) And I love Cheshire eyes up at the top. It's not a bad cover, by any means. And once again, it sparks ideas for a photo shoot. It definitely screams Wonderland, and is also very creepy all at once.
What made me read the book?
Like I said, Jenn kept bothering me to read this book, and of course most of the time when Jenn says I need to read something, she's right. I had just read a few heavy books, and wanted something really small that was a quick read. So I picked up off my shelf with the idea that Jenn said to, and also the idea that it was a tiny book and I could finish it in one night. Once I actually read what the book was about, and found out it really isn't about Alice in Wonderland at all, it sounded like a really great idea.
What did I like the most?
I liked the wonderland-esque idea of the book. I really liked that it's a top secret organization called "Wonderland", and that they all have Alice nicknames, like Cheshire, Mouse, and White Rabbit. I also really like the reason why the organization exists, because of a couple who lost their daughter to a serial killer, when she was only 8 years old. Her name was Alice. I also really love Shiloh, and his imaginary friend, Mr. Custard. I enjoyed how fast of a read it was, but I still feel like there could have been more. It still had me on the edge of my seat, needing to know what was happening and why.
What didn't I like?
The main character was a little annoying, in the way she kept bringing up how she didn't have any emotions, and the little girl she once was, was gone. But I can understand why the author did it, to show how she got to where she was in the book. It wasn't enough to dislike the book, just a little bit tiresome at some points. I also wish the book was just a little bit longer. I almost felt like it was too small, in a way that there was so much more that the author could have accomplished and didn't. I would have really enjoyed seeing more of the characters, and read more about the serial killers that they caught (Though I really do love serial killers, so that might be why)
Overall
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, nothing really heavy, but it kept you interested in the book. I cannot wait to read more in the series, and I hope the author keeps writing them. She could easily turn this into a 10 book series with different characters and different killers, and it would still continue to be an interesting read.
September 15, 2016
Thank you to Nicky Peacock and Evernight Teen for providing my with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review
When I received Nicky Peacock’s email asking me if I would be interested in reviewing her novel in exchange for an honest review I was immediately intrigued. What drew me in was the small selection of highlights from reviews she included. One of them described the novel as “Alice in Wonderland meets Criminal Minds.” Having an interest in both, I decided to go ahead and accept Peacock’s request.
Contrary to what readers might think at first glance, this novel doesn’t actually take place in Wonderland. It takes place in the “real world.” Wonderland isn’t a place, it’s a covert operation run by foster parents who train the children they bring in to take out murders and psychopaths.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. I liked that the foster children were given code names according to the characters from Alice in Wonderland they most closely resemble. I only wish that Hatter was featured a little bit more since his Wonderland namesake has always been my favorite from the original story.
This novel is told, for the most part, in the POV of three different characters: Mouse, Shilo, and the Kushtaka. Mouse’s story is focused on her missions to hunt down serial killers to bring justice to parents who may not get it from the police. Shilo’s story follows his stay in an insane asylum where he was put after his mother’s death. He claims that a monster killed his mother. Now, his imaginary friend is telling him that his sister is in danger. He has to break out of the asylum and sets out to keep his sister safe. The Kushtaka is continuously hunting for his next victim. He is biding his time until he can go after his real target.
React
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this novel when I accepted Peacock’s review request, but I really enjoyed it. I loved the idea of wonderland being a covert operation rather than a place. I love the crime and thriller genres, and this novel fit right in. I think one of my favorite things was that I was unsure the entire novel weather the kushtaka was actually real or a “Scooby Doo” like villain that dressed up as a monster until the very end.
The characters in this novel were very likable. As I said earlier I really wish we had seen more of Hatter throughout the novel. I don’t feel like there was enough character development for me to really get to understand his character. I feel like Mouse’s obsession with shoes made her more human and relatable.
This novel was very enjoyable and I look forward to seeing where the characters are headed to in the next novel, especially since the monster is still alive.
Rating
This review was originally posted on little-book-wyrm
Review
When I received Nicky Peacock’s email asking me if I would be interested in reviewing her novel in exchange for an honest review I was immediately intrigued. What drew me in was the small selection of highlights from reviews she included. One of them described the novel as “Alice in Wonderland meets Criminal Minds.” Having an interest in both, I decided to go ahead and accept Peacock’s request.
Contrary to what readers might think at first glance, this novel doesn’t actually take place in Wonderland. It takes place in the “real world.” Wonderland isn’t a place, it’s a covert operation run by foster parents who train the children they bring in to take out murders and psychopaths.
I really enjoyed all of the characters. I liked that the foster children were given code names according to the characters from Alice in Wonderland they most closely resemble. I only wish that Hatter was featured a little bit more since his Wonderland namesake has always been my favorite from the original story.
This novel is told, for the most part, in the POV of three different characters: Mouse, Shilo, and the Kushtaka. Mouse’s story is focused on her missions to hunt down serial killers to bring justice to parents who may not get it from the police. Shilo’s story follows his stay in an insane asylum where he was put after his mother’s death. He claims that a monster killed his mother. Now, his imaginary friend is telling him that his sister is in danger. He has to break out of the asylum and sets out to keep his sister safe. The Kushtaka is continuously hunting for his next victim. He is biding his time until he can go after his real target.
React
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this novel when I accepted Peacock’s review request, but I really enjoyed it. I loved the idea of wonderland being a covert operation rather than a place. I love the crime and thriller genres, and this novel fit right in. I think one of my favorite things was that I was unsure the entire novel weather the kushtaka was actually real or a “Scooby Doo” like villain that dressed up as a monster until the very end.
The characters in this novel were very likable. As I said earlier I really wish we had seen more of Hatter throughout the novel. I don’t feel like there was enough character development for me to really get to understand his character. I feel like Mouse’s obsession with shoes made her more human and relatable.
This novel was very enjoyable and I look forward to seeing where the characters are headed to in the next novel, especially since the monster is still alive.
Rating
This review was originally posted on little-book-wyrm
August 3, 2016
"You used to be much more...muchier. You've neglected your muchness, Mouse"
For a book that is only 124 pages, it sure did contain a lot of information and action. Instead of being in the world of Wonderland, it is set in the United States and Wonderland is their organization to help the families who have lost loved ones. This is definitely the most interesting Alice in Wonderland retelling that I have read this year alone. Which is saying something since this seems to be the year for retelling Lewis Carroll's book.
Kayla, aka Mouse, is our main protagonist who has a constant fear of being lost. She had a very tough childhood that has made her a little bitter towards her brother and a normal way of life. So how does she deal with all of that? She becomes a Wonderland operative and baits serial killers into taking her so that she can end their lives. When her brother comes back to try to save her, she just gets angry at him and blames him for most of her problems.
"'No rest for the wicked,' Cheshire says with a grin."
Throughout the entire book is references to the original Alice in Wonderland and it just helped the book become curiouser and curiouser. I thought it helped show that just about everyone is a little mad to be able to chase down serial killers and dispose of them. The only problem I saw in this book, was that it wasn't longer. I wish the author dragged out finding the killer in the end. For an event that shaped Kayla and Shilo's (her brother) life, it was over in one day. Kayla could have singled out the murderer after two days or at the very least gone into more than one store.
In the end though, Shilo still told Kayla that the real monster is still out there and Kayla just doesn't believes him. So what does she do? Drops him off back at the insane asylum. It's not until she is leaving and has an encounter of her own that she realizes her brother might not be as crazy as everyone thinks he is. Which sets the series up perfectly for the next installment.
"'But I don't want to go among mad people," I say. "Oh, you can't help that. We're all mad here. I'm mad, you're mad.'"
If you need a short fast read, I definitely suggest picking this book up! You won't be disappointed in it.
For a book that is only 124 pages, it sure did contain a lot of information and action. Instead of being in the world of Wonderland, it is set in the United States and Wonderland is their organization to help the families who have lost loved ones. This is definitely the most interesting Alice in Wonderland retelling that I have read this year alone. Which is saying something since this seems to be the year for retelling Lewis Carroll's book.
Kayla, aka Mouse, is our main protagonist who has a constant fear of being lost. She had a very tough childhood that has made her a little bitter towards her brother and a normal way of life. So how does she deal with all of that? She becomes a Wonderland operative and baits serial killers into taking her so that she can end their lives. When her brother comes back to try to save her, she just gets angry at him and blames him for most of her problems.
"'No rest for the wicked,' Cheshire says with a grin."
Throughout the entire book is references to the original Alice in Wonderland and it just helped the book become curiouser and curiouser. I thought it helped show that just about everyone is a little mad to be able to chase down serial killers and dispose of them. The only problem I saw in this book, was that it wasn't longer. I wish the author dragged out finding the killer in the end. For an event that shaped Kayla and Shilo's (her brother) life, it was over in one day. Kayla could have singled out the murderer after two days or at the very least gone into more than one store.
In the end though, Shilo still told Kayla that the real monster is still out there and Kayla just doesn't believes him. So what does she do? Drops him off back at the insane asylum. It's not until she is leaving and has an encounter of her own that she realizes her brother might not be as crazy as everyone thinks he is. Which sets the series up perfectly for the next installment.
"'But I don't want to go among mad people," I say. "Oh, you can't help that. We're all mad here. I'm mad, you're mad.'"
If you need a short fast read, I definitely suggest picking this book up! You won't be disappointed in it.
July 31, 2016
If you're looking for a sweet fairy tale retelling, this is not the book. But being a fairy tale fan, I was excited to get my hands on this one anyway, and it was well worth the reading ride.
Kayla is a seventeen-year-old trained assassin who works with a highly specialized group named Wonderland. Their goal is to stop and eradicate those who kidnap young girls for horrible purposes. Kayla, aka Mouse, is very good at what she does and has a caring 'family' which watches over her. Her own history, including her older brother who's locked up in an insane asylum, is another matter altogether.
This books grabs in the first scene and doesn't let go the entire way through. It's told mostly through Kayla's point of view, but also through her brother's and others. There's a lovely touch of uncertainty and mystery to it, which make it unclear what's real and what's not until the very end. Still for all the demented violence and slightly off-kilter personalities (some of which are really easy to adore), it's hard not to feel for Kayla and cheer for her the whole way through.
In many ways, this is a cleverly written tale. The author weaves in phrases from the original Wonderland, making them fit perfectly into this deadly world. It's not a retelling, but still does an excellent job of showing parallels and disclosing some of the delicious insanity.
There is violence and horrible situations, making it a little harsh for the lower end of the YA audience. And the scenes come across fairly realistic. The end rushes through a bit fast, missing some development but not enough to ruin the story by any means. It ends at a cliff hanger (a rushed one), and I'll be grabbing book two in hopes that it satisfies the missing links. Because this is definitely an adventure worth continuing. Albeit a dark one.
I received a free copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kayla is a seventeen-year-old trained assassin who works with a highly specialized group named Wonderland. Their goal is to stop and eradicate those who kidnap young girls for horrible purposes. Kayla, aka Mouse, is very good at what she does and has a caring 'family' which watches over her. Her own history, including her older brother who's locked up in an insane asylum, is another matter altogether.
This books grabs in the first scene and doesn't let go the entire way through. It's told mostly through Kayla's point of view, but also through her brother's and others. There's a lovely touch of uncertainty and mystery to it, which make it unclear what's real and what's not until the very end. Still for all the demented violence and slightly off-kilter personalities (some of which are really easy to adore), it's hard not to feel for Kayla and cheer for her the whole way through.
In many ways, this is a cleverly written tale. The author weaves in phrases from the original Wonderland, making them fit perfectly into this deadly world. It's not a retelling, but still does an excellent job of showing parallels and disclosing some of the delicious insanity.
There is violence and horrible situations, making it a little harsh for the lower end of the YA audience. And the scenes come across fairly realistic. The end rushes through a bit fast, missing some development but not enough to ruin the story by any means. It ends at a cliff hanger (a rushed one), and I'll be grabbing book two in hopes that it satisfies the missing links. Because this is definitely an adventure worth continuing. Albeit a dark one.
I received a free copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2016
3.5
LOST IN WONDERLAND is a murder-y, horror retelling of Alice in Wonderland and if you couldn't already tell by my rabid GR updates, I was obsessed from the start.
Although born as Kayla, Mouse has been pinballed amongst foster families after her father commits suicide and her brother is taken into a psychiatric ward, so you can understand she's had it hard. After being discovered by former government agents, she becomes an essential part of "Wonderland" - where she's trained to be an assassin and kill the nasty baddies.
Alongside her POV are many others, including Shilo and Mr. Custard, Rabbit, and Kushtaka, but Mouse exceeds them as the primary.
Personally, the only thing that annoyed me about this was the inane amount of POVs, considering its a short book to begin with. Barely 200 pages, which isn't something I'd exactly complain over. Maybe that's just me being unable to juggle numerous diverse voices, but yeah. No comprehendo.
Also, Mouse prided herself on being this sad little orphan. Wah, look at me. I have to kill people to make a living, like Dexter or Rumple from OUAT. But literally, she'd be walking around in Jimmy Choos and Dior pumps. Get real, hunny. Who're you trying to play?
The writing is fabulous, like, effortlessly so, and contrary to others, I had no problem with the Alice in Wonderland references. I mean, come on, people, what do you expect from a retelling? I was unbelievably fond of this book, and I usually have trouble with retellings. Honestly, it was as enjoyable as an episode of OUAT. Definitely the type of book horror aficionados will enjoy.
LOST IN WONDERLAND is a murder-y, horror retelling of Alice in Wonderland and if you couldn't already tell by my rabid GR updates, I was obsessed from the start.
Although born as Kayla, Mouse has been pinballed amongst foster families after her father commits suicide and her brother is taken into a psychiatric ward, so you can understand she's had it hard. After being discovered by former government agents, she becomes an essential part of "Wonderland" - where she's trained to be an assassin and kill the nasty baddies.
Alongside her POV are many others, including Shilo and Mr. Custard, Rabbit, and Kushtaka, but Mouse exceeds them as the primary.
Personally, the only thing that annoyed me about this was the inane amount of POVs, considering its a short book to begin with. Barely 200 pages, which isn't something I'd exactly complain over. Maybe that's just me being unable to juggle numerous diverse voices, but yeah. No comprehendo.
Also, Mouse prided herself on being this sad little orphan. Wah, look at me. I have to kill people to make a living, like Dexter or Rumple from OUAT. But literally, she'd be walking around in Jimmy Choos and Dior pumps. Get real, hunny. Who're you trying to play?
The writing is fabulous, like, effortlessly so, and contrary to others, I had no problem with the Alice in Wonderland references. I mean, come on, people, what do you expect from a retelling? I was unbelievably fond of this book, and I usually have trouble with retellings. Honestly, it was as enjoyable as an episode of OUAT. Definitely the type of book horror aficionados will enjoy.
"Hello, Mouse," he says. "I'm Hatter. I'm here to help you."
My eyes remain narrow and my grip on the knife tightens.
"But I don't want to go among mad people," I say.
"Oh, you can't help that. We're all mad here. I'm mad, you're mad."
July 20, 2016
Lost in Wonderland is the type of book that pulls you in almost immediately and doesn't let go until the very end.
While scrolling through NetGalley the other day, I happened upon this book. I'd never heard of it - or the author, for that matter - before, but the idea of a new take on Alice in Wonderland intrigued me. As did the cover. So I decided to give it a go. And now that I've finished the book? I'm glad that I did. The way the author developed this story was fantastic. She made it her own, while still paying homage to the original story throughout. That isn't an easy task to do, and yet, Peacock did it with such ease.
I wasn't sure what I was getting into in the beginning, but Lost in Wonderland ultimately proved to be a story about a family and finding yourself. As we saw with Kayla, she had to lose herself before she came into the person she felt she was meant to be all along. But it's also very much a fantastical and deadly take on Alice in Wonderland. The two shouldn't work, and yet, they do.
I adored Mouse, and I liked Shilo. Seeing how their relationship grows going forward, and seeing if their able to look past what got them to this point is going to be interesting. Both characters have their own issues - more so Shilo than Mouse - but seeing them team up together to take down the monster that led to Shilo being put into a hospital would be wonderful.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. It's on the shorter side, but Peacock has managed to tell a fully contained story arc with no problem. It's hard not to get excited about what she has planned in future installments!
While scrolling through NetGalley the other day, I happened upon this book. I'd never heard of it - or the author, for that matter - before, but the idea of a new take on Alice in Wonderland intrigued me. As did the cover. So I decided to give it a go. And now that I've finished the book? I'm glad that I did. The way the author developed this story was fantastic. She made it her own, while still paying homage to the original story throughout. That isn't an easy task to do, and yet, Peacock did it with such ease.
I wasn't sure what I was getting into in the beginning, but Lost in Wonderland ultimately proved to be a story about a family and finding yourself. As we saw with Kayla, she had to lose herself before she came into the person she felt she was meant to be all along. But it's also very much a fantastical and deadly take on Alice in Wonderland. The two shouldn't work, and yet, they do.
I adored Mouse, and I liked Shilo. Seeing how their relationship grows going forward, and seeing if their able to look past what got them to this point is going to be interesting. Both characters have their own issues - more so Shilo than Mouse - but seeing them team up together to take down the monster that led to Shilo being put into a hospital would be wonderful.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. It's on the shorter side, but Peacock has managed to tell a fully contained story arc with no problem. It's hard not to get excited about what she has planned in future installments!
August 24, 2016
This book basically proves that you should read the blurb to refresh your memory before reading the book, because I started without reading, and the book and I ended up with a rocky start. But in the end, I managed to get my bearings and enjoyed it quite a bit.
Lost in Wonderland has two characters: Mouse (aka Kayla), who has been raised in Wonderland, and Shiloh, her crazy older brother. In this book, Wonderland is a secret non-governmental organisation that trains their operatives to kill serial killers (because the daughter of one of their founders was abducted and killed by one). The monster that Shiloh and Mouse encounter is back, and what goes on is a thrilling tale where nothing is what it seems.
Although the beginning was confusing (and I admit that was my fault - I tend to dive into books without checking the blurb on Goodreads first), a quick check put me on track and I really enjoyed it. The 'Dark Wonderland' vibe got stronger as the book progressed and the ending, while open, still provided me with enough closure that I didn't want to hurl the iPad against something.
All the chapters are short, which is to say that they are extremely fast-paced, and I basically finished the book in less than an hour because of that.
If you're looking for a quick, thrilling read, this is a good book.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Lost in Wonderland has two characters: Mouse (aka Kayla), who has been raised in Wonderland, and Shiloh, her crazy older brother. In this book, Wonderland is a secret non-governmental organisation that trains their operatives to kill serial killers (because the daughter of one of their founders was abducted and killed by one). The monster that Shiloh and Mouse encounter is back, and what goes on is a thrilling tale where nothing is what it seems.
Although the beginning was confusing (and I admit that was my fault - I tend to dive into books without checking the blurb on Goodreads first), a quick check put me on track and I really enjoyed it. The 'Dark Wonderland' vibe got stronger as the book progressed and the ending, while open, still provided me with enough closure that I didn't want to hurl the iPad against something.
All the chapters are short, which is to say that they are extremely fast-paced, and I basically finished the book in less than an hour because of that.
If you're looking for a quick, thrilling read, this is a good book.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
July 27, 2016
Holy crap! This book has some guts!
It took me a few chapters to figure out what the heck was happening and what the story was really about.. but I loved that about it. I like books that make me think. And this one certainly did that.
It was expertly thought out and executed. There was not a dull second in the book. Edge-of-your-seat reading at its very best!
Wonderful character development. What a zany cast of characters -
Mouse - Fearless and kind of scary really. She reminded me of Jennifer Garner in Alias. She was a real bad ass. The real deal.
Shilo - Mouse's brother, crazy, talks to people who are not really there... or are they? I loved him! What a lovable insane young man! I think he was my favorite.
Mr. Custard - One of the imaginary friends. He was the voice of reason. A good guy to have around.
Rabbit, Cheshire, & Hatter - all part of the "gang", operatives. All great characters.
The Kushtaka - The monster/Killer - great scary bad guy!
A lot of other minor characters, all done very well.
This book was so much fun to read. But was also very intense and dark at times. I would give it 10 extra stars just for originality. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you "Bridging the Gap Promotions & More" for sending me this book for my honest review!!!
It took me a few chapters to figure out what the heck was happening and what the story was really about.. but I loved that about it. I like books that make me think. And this one certainly did that.
It was expertly thought out and executed. There was not a dull second in the book. Edge-of-your-seat reading at its very best!
Wonderful character development. What a zany cast of characters -
Mouse - Fearless and kind of scary really. She reminded me of Jennifer Garner in Alias. She was a real bad ass. The real deal.
Shilo - Mouse's brother, crazy, talks to people who are not really there... or are they? I loved him! What a lovable insane young man! I think he was my favorite.
Mr. Custard - One of the imaginary friends. He was the voice of reason. A good guy to have around.
Rabbit, Cheshire, & Hatter - all part of the "gang", operatives. All great characters.
The Kushtaka - The monster/Killer - great scary bad guy!
A lot of other minor characters, all done very well.
This book was so much fun to read. But was also very intense and dark at times. I would give it 10 extra stars just for originality. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you "Bridging the Gap Promotions & More" for sending me this book for my honest review!!!
August 17, 2017
Title: Lost In Wonderland
Author: Nicky Peacock
Genre: NA Horror/Urban Fantasy
Format: Ebook
Pages: 124
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: Wow, there was so much to this I'm not even sure what genre to put it in LOL. Really interesting though, there's some paranormal and most of it doesn't come to light until the very end. There are constant hints but at first it's a horror thriller story but as it continues you start to wonder, is this urban fantasy, paranormal, WTF am I reading??!! If you completely ignore the genre identity crisis I'm having and decide to read the book or have read the book I would LOVE to know what genre you attach to it LOL. And it's somewhat of a mix between YA and NA but that's no biggie to me. Anyway, I loved how Wonderland and many of the characters from Alice In Wonderland were in this story but other than names and maybe a few characteristics this isn't a "retelling". Wonderland is the secret organization and the code names are the characters from Alice In Wonderland. I do look forward to reading more of this series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and chose to write a review.
Author: Nicky Peacock
Genre: NA Horror/Urban Fantasy
Format: Ebook
Pages: 124
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: Wow, there was so much to this I'm not even sure what genre to put it in LOL. Really interesting though, there's some paranormal and most of it doesn't come to light until the very end. There are constant hints but at first it's a horror thriller story but as it continues you start to wonder, is this urban fantasy, paranormal, WTF am I reading??!! If you completely ignore the genre identity crisis I'm having and decide to read the book or have read the book I would LOVE to know what genre you attach to it LOL. And it's somewhat of a mix between YA and NA but that's no biggie to me. Anyway, I loved how Wonderland and many of the characters from Alice In Wonderland were in this story but other than names and maybe a few characteristics this isn't a "retelling". Wonderland is the secret organization and the code names are the characters from Alice In Wonderland. I do look forward to reading more of this series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and chose to write a review.
June 22, 2017
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a great read. The integration of the Alice in Wonderland story. The characters were great. I liked how the characters each had a distinct voice, so that we can distinguish them. The story was a thrilling read. I wished that it could be longer. Overall, an enjoyable read.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a great read. The integration of the Alice in Wonderland story. The characters were great. I liked how the characters each had a distinct voice, so that we can distinguish them. The story was a thrilling read. I wished that it could be longer. Overall, an enjoyable read.
October 6, 2017
i got my copy from netgalley
plot:
if you thought this was an Alice in Wonderland retelling you thought it wrong. this is a secret organization using codenames from the famous classic.
Ken and Sandra loose their 8 years old child Alice when a serial killer snatches her away from their garden and since they are working for a government agency they have the means to set up a training facility for those who have similar experiences such as Mouse, who lost her mother when her ex-boyfriend lured her into the woods near their house and when their father came home from work a month later he killed himself within a week. Mouse’s big brother went nuts and was locked away in a mental institution still fearing the made-up monster which snatched their mother. he talks to his imaginary friend and wets the bed from nightmares at the age of 21. meanwhile Ken and Sandra become Mouse’s adoptive parents training her to hunt down and kill serial killers with the help of their government friends and co-workers. the complication sets in when theres a woman in the same place Mouse and Shilo is from gets kidnapped by the same “monster” who kidnapped the kids mother in the past and Mouse makes it her own mission to get to the “monster” and eliminate it but Shilo escapes from the facility and tries to warn her not to pursue.
writing: the writing is quick paced and it has really short chapters but its dense and action and information packed so there’s no way of skipping likes or paragraphs or skip- reading only to read the dialogues. I liked that feature since the book itself is short.
there are a few misused quotes of the original classic which i really resented since I actually like the works.
problematic elements: slutshaming. in chapter 19 theres a scene where a girl gets called a slut just because the boy the mc likes got a thing for that said girl. unlikable main character +1. and +1 for the agreeing pop-up sidecharacter. like who are you anyway?
the other problematic element for me is the fact that 16 something girls murder and take out SERIAL KILLERS. like im no UFC fighting expert but a 50 something kg girl can hardly tackle a full grown CUNNING PIECE OF WORK SERIAL KILLER. like . tell that to someone else please…
theres a really nasty scene in chapter 38 where Mouse confronts Shilo, her big brother. I get it that the author tried to make Kayla aka Mouse apathetic but this is just downright cruel to talk to her brother who has been through the same trauma as her just handled it worse the way she talks.
quotes i actually liked:
“its not real, honey. There is danger in the world, but you can’t blame it all on a bogey monster.”
I gave it 3/5 stars because i didnt like the slutshaming and the main character instead of coming across ass badass came across as cruel. the plot was see-through from around the middle of the book so i just skimmed through the rest from there and still could make it out what it was about how it ended and all…
plot:
if you thought this was an Alice in Wonderland retelling you thought it wrong. this is a secret organization using codenames from the famous classic.
Ken and Sandra loose their 8 years old child Alice when a serial killer snatches her away from their garden and since they are working for a government agency they have the means to set up a training facility for those who have similar experiences such as Mouse, who lost her mother when her ex-boyfriend lured her into the woods near their house and when their father came home from work a month later he killed himself within a week. Mouse’s big brother went nuts and was locked away in a mental institution still fearing the made-up monster which snatched their mother. he talks to his imaginary friend and wets the bed from nightmares at the age of 21. meanwhile Ken and Sandra become Mouse’s adoptive parents training her to hunt down and kill serial killers with the help of their government friends and co-workers. the complication sets in when theres a woman in the same place Mouse and Shilo is from gets kidnapped by the same “monster” who kidnapped the kids mother in the past and Mouse makes it her own mission to get to the “monster” and eliminate it but Shilo escapes from the facility and tries to warn her not to pursue.
writing: the writing is quick paced and it has really short chapters but its dense and action and information packed so there’s no way of skipping likes or paragraphs or skip- reading only to read the dialogues. I liked that feature since the book itself is short.
there are a few misused quotes of the original classic which i really resented since I actually like the works.
problematic elements: slutshaming. in chapter 19 theres a scene where a girl gets called a slut just because the boy the mc likes got a thing for that said girl. unlikable main character +1. and +1 for the agreeing pop-up sidecharacter. like who are you anyway?
the other problematic element for me is the fact that 16 something girls murder and take out SERIAL KILLERS. like im no UFC fighting expert but a 50 something kg girl can hardly tackle a full grown CUNNING PIECE OF WORK SERIAL KILLER. like . tell that to someone else please…
theres a really nasty scene in chapter 38 where Mouse confronts Shilo, her big brother. I get it that the author tried to make Kayla aka Mouse apathetic but this is just downright cruel to talk to her brother who has been through the same trauma as her just handled it worse the way she talks.
quotes i actually liked:
“its not real, honey. There is danger in the world, but you can’t blame it all on a bogey monster.”
I gave it 3/5 stars because i didnt like the slutshaming and the main character instead of coming across ass badass came across as cruel. the plot was see-through from around the middle of the book so i just skimmed through the rest from there and still could make it out what it was about how it ended and all…
December 13, 2016
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader. She also participated in a quick Q & A
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This story focuses on Kayla -- a young woman who looks years younger than she is (young enough to be appealing to the Humbert Humberts of the world as well as old enough to come across as a young co-ed), which is helpful in her vocation. She's basically bait for serial predators (who the authorities can't/haven't done anything to) as part of her work with Wonderland. Wonderland is a group run by former federal agents bankrolled by a largely mysterious billionaire. Each "Wonderlander" goes by a code name derived from the Lewis Carroll book, and can quote sections relevant to their moniker (and recognize others quoting their parts). She and her colleagues -- Rabbit and Chesire (Kayla's Mouse) -- lure the killers/molesters somewhere, take them out and then have someone come in clean up after them.
Her brother, Shilo, is locked up in a Mental Health facility for a handful of reasons, but the largest is his insistence that a man who dresses in orange is his constant companion who tells him what he should do. No one else can see or hear Mr. Custard, naturally, so Shilo is on the receiving end of all sorts of treatments. Neither the drugs, the talk therapy, or anything else seems to be working -- Mr. Custard is still there, as much as Shilo might try to pretend he's not.
Both siblings are reacting to the disappearance/abandonment of their mother while they were young and the suicide of their father not long after in very different ways, but both of their atypical lives can be traced to these incidents. Now it seems that someone is killing women near their childhood home, and there's something drawing both of them back their to confront the killer.
The story is an interesting mix of Supernatural and Thriller stories, and once I saw that's where she was going, I wasn't sure that Peacock was going to be that successful with it -- very few are. I'm not talking straight-up Urban Fantasy, I'm talking about a Suspense/Thriller that mixes in some sort of magic/monster where bullets and explosions should be. The last time I read a mystery where the author tried this, it ruined the book -- it's tricky. The heightened reality that she was using already helps, but it doesn't guarantee success, Peacock tried a tricky thing and made it work, that's no small feat.
Still, there's only a little supernatural to this -- there's a human villain, human protagonists, human costs, human relationships at the core of this novel. Peacock's up to the challenge of writing them, no doubt about it.
I liked the characters -- especially Kayla. The story moved along well, the action was convincing -- and the predators were just horrible enough that you didn't really care that much that vigilante action took care of them rather than the law. Sure, the book could really have used one more thorough edit. More importantly, the facility that Shilo lives in draws more from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest or Gotham's depiction of Arkham than reality -- and as annoying as that is, really, if you're looking for realism, you've dropped this book before it gets to that.
Can she follow this up with an equally successful sequel? That might be trickier, but I'm looking forward to seeing her try.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest opinions.
---
This story focuses on Kayla -- a young woman who looks years younger than she is (young enough to be appealing to the Humbert Humberts of the world as well as old enough to come across as a young co-ed), which is helpful in her vocation. She's basically bait for serial predators (who the authorities can't/haven't done anything to) as part of her work with Wonderland. Wonderland is a group run by former federal agents bankrolled by a largely mysterious billionaire. Each "Wonderlander" goes by a code name derived from the Lewis Carroll book, and can quote sections relevant to their moniker (and recognize others quoting their parts). She and her colleagues -- Rabbit and Chesire (Kayla's Mouse) -- lure the killers/molesters somewhere, take them out and then have someone come in clean up after them.
Her brother, Shilo, is locked up in a Mental Health facility for a handful of reasons, but the largest is his insistence that a man who dresses in orange is his constant companion who tells him what he should do. No one else can see or hear Mr. Custard, naturally, so Shilo is on the receiving end of all sorts of treatments. Neither the drugs, the talk therapy, or anything else seems to be working -- Mr. Custard is still there, as much as Shilo might try to pretend he's not.
Both siblings are reacting to the disappearance/abandonment of their mother while they were young and the suicide of their father not long after in very different ways, but both of their atypical lives can be traced to these incidents. Now it seems that someone is killing women near their childhood home, and there's something drawing both of them back their to confront the killer.
The story is an interesting mix of Supernatural and Thriller stories, and once I saw that's where she was going, I wasn't sure that Peacock was going to be that successful with it -- very few are. I'm not talking straight-up Urban Fantasy, I'm talking about a Suspense/Thriller that mixes in some sort of magic/monster where bullets and explosions should be. The last time I read a mystery where the author tried this, it ruined the book -- it's tricky. The heightened reality that she was using already helps, but it doesn't guarantee success, Peacock tried a tricky thing and made it work, that's no small feat.
Still, there's only a little supernatural to this -- there's a human villain, human protagonists, human costs, human relationships at the core of this novel. Peacock's up to the challenge of writing them, no doubt about it.
I liked the characters -- especially Kayla. The story moved along well, the action was convincing -- and the predators were just horrible enough that you didn't really care that much that vigilante action took care of them rather than the law. Sure, the book could really have used one more thorough edit. More importantly, the facility that Shilo lives in draws more from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest or Gotham's depiction of Arkham than reality -- and as annoying as that is, really, if you're looking for realism, you've dropped this book before it gets to that.
Can she follow this up with an equally successful sequel? That might be trickier, but I'm looking forward to seeing her try.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest opinions.
September 14, 2017
This is not your typical Wonderland. You have been warned.
I received an ARC or review copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
“You used to be much more…muchier. You’ve neglected your muchness, Mouse.”
I must admit even after reading the synopsis I was expecting something more akin to the fantastical Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Other Stories. While it was a little shock to discover this isn’t the case, this tale delivers the fantastical and humorous as well as being dark and thrilling!
This is undoubtedly one clever book. In its own right the book is dark. It is chock full of murder and intrigue. I mean a secret vigilantly group that hunts and kills serial killers? That would be awesome by itself! But the little bits of Carrol’s Alice makes things a little lighter. Quotes and references litter the pages adding to the characters and the tale over all. And made this reviewer love the tale all that much more.
The characters all have their own strengths and weaknesses. This makes them seem more realistic – even the killer/monster, the Kustaka. This also adds to the narration as the story is told from Kayla and Shilo’s point of view, as well as that of the Kustaka.
The ending to the story felt a bit rushed and I found my self wishing that the chase was drawn out just a bit longer. But over all this is a powerful start to a series and I can’t wait to read the next installments. 4 teacups all around!
I received an ARC or review copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
“You used to be much more…muchier. You’ve neglected your muchness, Mouse.”
I must admit even after reading the synopsis I was expecting something more akin to the fantastical Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Other Stories. While it was a little shock to discover this isn’t the case, this tale delivers the fantastical and humorous as well as being dark and thrilling!
This is undoubtedly one clever book. In its own right the book is dark. It is chock full of murder and intrigue. I mean a secret vigilantly group that hunts and kills serial killers? That would be awesome by itself! But the little bits of Carrol’s Alice makes things a little lighter. Quotes and references litter the pages adding to the characters and the tale over all. And made this reviewer love the tale all that much more.
The characters all have their own strengths and weaknesses. This makes them seem more realistic – even the killer/monster, the Kustaka. This also adds to the narration as the story is told from Kayla and Shilo’s point of view, as well as that of the Kustaka.
The ending to the story felt a bit rushed and I found my self wishing that the chase was drawn out just a bit longer. But over all this is a powerful start to a series and I can’t wait to read the next installments. 4 teacups all around!
September 9, 2016
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So, thanks to NetGalley and the publisher! Onto the review!
There are so many different Alice in Wonderland spin offs floating around lately and each one has a different take on the story, which I suppose is one of the wonderful things about the story. Anyways, Lost in Wonderland takes a stand that I haven’t really ever seen before. Instead of an alternate universe, the people of Wonderland are a sort of non-government agency. It was a very interesting and unique take on the original story.
Our two main characters are Mouse, a 19-year-old assassin, and her brother Shilo, who resides in an insane asylum and sees people who may have once been alive. These two Alaskan natives don’t communicate and haven’t for quite a while, until an unlikely event brings them back together. A monster, who Shilo believes killed their mother, has reappeared and Bean puts herself on the case dragging her mentally unstable brother along.
A fast paced thriller that had me turning the pages in ernest to learn what would happen next!! Blood, gore, serial killers, monsters, and possible supernatural influence? Not to forget all the WONDERFUL Alice in Wonderland references! Highly recommended as a short thriller read. Well done! 4.5 beans from me!
There are so many different Alice in Wonderland spin offs floating around lately and each one has a different take on the story, which I suppose is one of the wonderful things about the story. Anyways, Lost in Wonderland takes a stand that I haven’t really ever seen before. Instead of an alternate universe, the people of Wonderland are a sort of non-government agency. It was a very interesting and unique take on the original story.
Our two main characters are Mouse, a 19-year-old assassin, and her brother Shilo, who resides in an insane asylum and sees people who may have once been alive. These two Alaskan natives don’t communicate and haven’t for quite a while, until an unlikely event brings them back together. A monster, who Shilo believes killed their mother, has reappeared and Bean puts herself on the case dragging her mentally unstable brother along.
A fast paced thriller that had me turning the pages in ernest to learn what would happen next!! Blood, gore, serial killers, monsters, and possible supernatural influence? Not to forget all the WONDERFUL Alice in Wonderland references! Highly recommended as a short thriller read. Well done! 4.5 beans from me!
October 4, 2016
An odd, dark sort of paranormal YA. I received a free copy in exchange for a review on Netgalley.
I'm not a huge fan. The characters felt kind of flat, and the mood for me was also off.
First of all, this book really didn't need the Alice in Wonderland twist in the first place. All the Carroll quotes and Alice references mostly seemed out of place, clashing with the actual story about a girl who hunts serial killers in a world with real monsters. The Alice in Wonderland aesthetic and mood was largely missing.
The characters, though, were the main problem. Shilo and Mouse both felt flat, and Mouse's journey throughout the book did not ring true for me. She's too harsh on Shilo and Shilo is too one-dimensionally insane. Their sibling relationship is a mess and their relationships with others, even the other Wonderland members, feel hollow.
Speaking of which, what the heck, Wonderland? I can understand wanting to go vigilante after losing your children but endangering OTHER CHILDREN in the effort is not the answer and I have no idea how you decided it was. You basically brainwashed Kayla into being your personal assassin. Disgusting.
Anyways, I did like that the Kushtaka was real-its sections were the most interesting-and I feel like the series might go interesting directions, but mostly this book was flat and just didn't work for me. I hope it works better for others.
I'm not a huge fan. The characters felt kind of flat, and the mood for me was also off.
First of all, this book really didn't need the Alice in Wonderland twist in the first place. All the Carroll quotes and Alice references mostly seemed out of place, clashing with the actual story about a girl who hunts serial killers in a world with real monsters. The Alice in Wonderland aesthetic and mood was largely missing.
The characters, though, were the main problem. Shilo and Mouse both felt flat, and Mouse's journey throughout the book did not ring true for me. She's too harsh on Shilo and Shilo is too one-dimensionally insane. Their sibling relationship is a mess and their relationships with others, even the other Wonderland members, feel hollow.
Speaking of which, what the heck, Wonderland? I can understand wanting to go vigilante after losing your children but endangering OTHER CHILDREN in the effort is not the answer and I have no idea how you decided it was. You basically brainwashed Kayla into being your personal assassin. Disgusting.
Anyways, I did like that the Kushtaka was real-its sections were the most interesting-and I feel like the series might go interesting directions, but mostly this book was flat and just didn't work for me. I hope it works better for others.
April 28, 2018
This was an ok book. I liked the premise, but the actual writing got a little bit tedious towards the end. We jumped backwards and forwards between the characters, and it was obvious before the end that . It annoyed me really because it was like this book didn't know what it wanted to be, from half of the perspectives it was about vigilantes and the real-world, from the other half it had obvious paranormal aspects.
I get that the characters might not know of the paranormal aspect, but to the reader it feels like the writer added the paranormal twist at the end as a last minute thing, and then to compensate that went back and added a few (out of place) things into the story to try and make it seem established.
The death of one of the characters (and the mentioned death of another) was kind of glossed over, and none of the characters really had any depth.
I'm starting to wonder why I gave it 3 stars, but it was an ok story, as long as you don't expect something smart.
August 9, 2016
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. Definitely not your typical Wonderland! Yet amazing in every single way! Kayla, aka Mouse, was lost once upon a time, when she and her brother Shilo, followed her mother into the woods, causing her to grow up fast and with a vengeance. She now works alongside other Wonderlanders to put a stop to vicious killers.
I loved everything about this book! From the wit of our main character, to the uniqueness that her brother brings, to the fun references to Alice In Wonderland, to all of the mystery, twists, and turns that this book has to offer, and there are a lot! And wait until you read about Mr. Custard! This is truly a fun, unique, and intriguing book. My recommendation: Don't miss this one!!
I loved everything about this book! From the wit of our main character, to the uniqueness that her brother brings, to the fun references to Alice In Wonderland, to all of the mystery, twists, and turns that this book has to offer, and there are a lot! And wait until you read about Mr. Custard! This is truly a fun, unique, and intriguing book. My recommendation: Don't miss this one!!
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