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Chronicles of Blood #1
Toxic Wonderland
Mal knew when she entered Wonderland, it would be mad; she was not prepared for it to be toxic and running red with blood.
Mal is a Fixer, a child raised and trained to “fix” broken fairy tales by an organization the Fixers refer to as DeadEnd. Because, once you enter a fairy tale, there’s no getting out.
Mal has been assigned Wonderland. You know Wonderland, the place Alice visited as a child. Wonderland, with a Mad Hatter and a Cheshire Cat. Wonderland, who has consumed twenty-seven Fixers before Mal and has been dubbed “toxic” by the Operators of DeadEnd. But Wonderland needs to be fixed. It’s been toxic so long that every Wonderland story in the real world is being transformed into something entirely not child friendly.
After training for eleven years and studying every re-telling of Lewis Carroll’s classic, Mal leaves the world behind and enters her very own dead-end fairy tale. Well… everything is certainly twisted. The people are broken; the Bloody Queens’ reign has thrown the world into turmoil and upset the balance; and the places are, quite frankly, mad.
At least she found a few mostly sane, entirely gorgeous men to help her along the way. Help her re-write this fairy tale back to its original wonder. And perhaps help her build a life in Wonderland for when she succeeds - because she is determined to do what the other twenty-seven have not been able to.
Everything seemed pretty straight forward, and going pretty smoothly, until she realized the fairy tale she’d been sent in to fix is actually infected by another…
**This is a full-length, new adult, reverse harem, dark romance novel with a ‘why choose’ ending, meaning the main character gets a happily ever after with more than one man. It contains magic, demons, shifters, nonsense, explicit sex scenes, blood, murder. There are references to past emotional abuse. This is a MMFMM book with a STRONG focus on the woman (although there is some MM and MMF in here, too). This is book 1 of 4 in the series.
Mal is a Fixer, a child raised and trained to “fix” broken fairy tales by an organization the Fixers refer to as DeadEnd. Because, once you enter a fairy tale, there’s no getting out.
Mal has been assigned Wonderland. You know Wonderland, the place Alice visited as a child. Wonderland, with a Mad Hatter and a Cheshire Cat. Wonderland, who has consumed twenty-seven Fixers before Mal and has been dubbed “toxic” by the Operators of DeadEnd. But Wonderland needs to be fixed. It’s been toxic so long that every Wonderland story in the real world is being transformed into something entirely not child friendly.
After training for eleven years and studying every re-telling of Lewis Carroll’s classic, Mal leaves the world behind and enters her very own dead-end fairy tale. Well… everything is certainly twisted. The people are broken; the Bloody Queens’ reign has thrown the world into turmoil and upset the balance; and the places are, quite frankly, mad.
At least she found a few mostly sane, entirely gorgeous men to help her along the way. Help her re-write this fairy tale back to its original wonder. And perhaps help her build a life in Wonderland for when she succeeds - because she is determined to do what the other twenty-seven have not been able to.
Everything seemed pretty straight forward, and going pretty smoothly, until she realized the fairy tale she’d been sent in to fix is actually infected by another…
**This is a full-length, new adult, reverse harem, dark romance novel with a ‘why choose’ ending, meaning the main character gets a happily ever after with more than one man. It contains magic, demons, shifters, nonsense, explicit sex scenes, blood, murder. There are references to past emotional abuse. This is a MMFMM book with a STRONG focus on the woman (although there is some MM and MMF in here, too). This is book 1 of 4 in the series.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2020
210 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
About the author
Crea Reitan
114 books1,115 followersCrea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. When she can't fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center - and utterly swoon-worthy! Don't ask her how many book boyfriends she has...
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don't even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 22, 2020
I am very clearly in the minority in my feelings toward this book. There are several things that are compelling, interesting, and attention-grabbing, but there was also a lot that I found deeply problematic in terms of character and plot development. I really didn't like Mal. I found her to be thoughtless, selfish, and inconsiderate. We start the book with Mal saying goodbye to her brother and two best friends - ostensibly to never see them again. Mal never spares them another thought throughout the book. She never wonders how they are faring in their stories or whether their tales are bigger sources of corruption than anticipated too. It's just out of sight, out of mind. The same thing happens again with Ache. I also really hate how she treats Eagy. Multiple times we are told that Eagy doesn't want confrontation, but Mal decides for him what he really needs and takes it upon herself to provide it. I know most people probably think this is making Mal a strong female character, but it smacks of a toxic imbalance in power in their relationship for me. Just think, if the roles had been reversed and it was the male character that was ignoring what the female character said she wanted because he knew what she needed, would it seem so loving, or would it seem controlling and dominating? (I don't like domineering alphas either) Just because she's a woman does not excuse taking away Eagy's autonomy. She is also a selfish and inconsiderate partner.
Now I said presumably in the last spoiler, because the author also missed innumerable opportunities to give us background on Mal and the Dead End and her world, so I feel like I know almost nothing. She, Ryph, and Eagy are literally walking around in the woods for weeks talking, and we barely get anything out of it. We are told that they keep talking about her world, but we are privy to almost none of it. She shares barely any information, so the world seems completely underdeveloped. I mostly just learned that they taught her to use blades and otherwise, I really don't know what she was studying, because she seems woefully ignorant of things - even though she was studying the twisted versions of the tale beforehand.
All told, I'm not sure I'll keep reading this series.
Now I said presumably in the last spoiler, because the author also missed innumerable opportunities to give us background on Mal and the Dead End and her world, so I feel like I know almost nothing. She, Ryph, and Eagy are literally walking around in the woods for weeks talking, and we barely get anything out of it. We are told that they keep talking about her world, but we are privy to almost none of it. She shares barely any information, so the world seems completely underdeveloped. I mostly just learned that they taught her to use blades and otherwise, I really don't know what she was studying, because she seems woefully ignorant of things - even though she was studying the twisted versions of the tale beforehand.
All told, I'm not sure I'll keep reading this series.
August 28, 2020
I love Alice in Wonderland retellings, so I jumped at the chancd to read this.
I really liked the concept of a 'toxic' fairytale and someone having to go in and fix it. However, like with most things in this book it just felt like there was something missing.
Most of the world building was done in a rather offhand way, through a random conversation, or through disjointed rhymes in the style of the original, which I wasn't a massive fan of.Ialso felt like the characterisation needed some more depth. Eagy and the one beginning with R (their names were also so random, and not in a good way) were the most characterised, but only because they were in it the most. I liked Chesh the best, but the men feel a bit like add on items and she's not actually developing a relationship with her.
There overall plot was also quite slow. We know she plans to defeat the Queens, but we don't know how, only that she was told by the rand caterpillar guy she needed 7 men, so they spend most of the book tracking through the forest and stopping at random inns hoping to bump into some. By the end I had lost quote a lot of interest, unfortunately.
I really liked the concept of a 'toxic' fairytale and someone having to go in and fix it. However, like with most things in this book it just felt like there was something missing.
Most of the world building was done in a rather offhand way, through a random conversation, or through disjointed rhymes in the style of the original, which I wasn't a massive fan of.Ialso felt like the characterisation needed some more depth. Eagy and the one beginning with R (their names were also so random, and not in a good way) were the most characterised, but only because they were in it the most. I liked Chesh the best, but the men feel a bit like add on items and she's not actually developing a relationship with her.
There overall plot was also quite slow. We know she plans to defeat the Queens, but we don't know how, only that she was told by the rand caterpillar guy she needed 7 men, so they spend most of the book tracking through the forest and stopping at random inns hoping to bump into some. By the end I had lost quote a lot of interest, unfortunately.
September 4, 2020
I find the fixer thing interesting. There’s a webtoon that I’m enjoying at the moment so was interested to see how it would be in reverse harem. Retellings are a bit hit or miss for me, as I either find them nowhere near the true story, similar to the true story or just a cosplay sex fest.
The start was interesting and I liked the introduction to the characters and the explanation of the company and doors. It looked like Mal was a strong main character going into a broken world for good. 6% in there’s sex with a stranger and then more sex.
There is a lot of sex in the story, which I should’ve guessed when one of the first things mentioned is Mal not bringing her vibrator and wandering about mushroom heads. There’s also a lot of MM as a very large chunk of the book focuses on Eagy and Ryph finding a woman who would love them. At first I thought it was nice giving the guys time alone, like a build a harem but Chesh was pretty much tossed in the corner which was a little sad when he’s my favourite character.
It’s a travelling story with the characters bouncing across renamed wonderland in search of the guys she needs. There were parts where I got bored but then there’s a song or rhyme adding to the mystery that kept me going. The story ends on a cliffhanger but I’m unsure at the moment whether I’ll be reading the next one.
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Mal but by the end of the book I didn’t like her. Multiple POV, the guys had their stories and their emotions but Mal felt more like an observer or a tourist so had issues connecting with her. The ending was a surprise given how strongly she felt about the women being bitches who treat men like objects and then turning out to be one, misunderstanding or not.
The story and world was interesting, Twisted, sexed up and violent. I couldn’t get through the book in one sitting, had to take a couple of breaks. I’ll likely wait until the series is done and check out the reviews before I give the next one a go.
The start was interesting and I liked the introduction to the characters and the explanation of the company and doors. It looked like Mal was a strong main character going into a broken world for good. 6% in there’s sex with a stranger and then more sex.
There is a lot of sex in the story, which I should’ve guessed when one of the first things mentioned is Mal not bringing her vibrator and wandering about mushroom heads. There’s also a lot of MM as a very large chunk of the book focuses on Eagy and Ryph finding a woman who would love them. At first I thought it was nice giving the guys time alone, like a build a harem but Chesh was pretty much tossed in the corner which was a little sad when he’s my favourite character.
It’s a travelling story with the characters bouncing across renamed wonderland in search of the guys she needs. There were parts where I got bored but then there’s a song or rhyme adding to the mystery that kept me going. The story ends on a cliffhanger but I’m unsure at the moment whether I’ll be reading the next one.
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Mal but by the end of the book I didn’t like her. Multiple POV, the guys had their stories and their emotions but Mal felt more like an observer or a tourist so had issues connecting with her. The ending was a surprise given how strongly she felt about the women being bitches who treat men like objects and then turning out to be one, misunderstanding or not.
The story and world was interesting, Twisted, sexed up and violent. I couldn’t get through the book in one sitting, had to take a couple of breaks. I’ll likely wait until the series is done and check out the reviews before I give the next one a go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2020
Half of what you think about a book is connected to your expectations of a book. Especially when you're a mood reader like me. So, I have to admit that after finishing this book I'm a little unsure what I think, but I'm pretty certain that's mostly because I expected something I didn't get. And I think what I got is much better, but I have to admit that I had to force my mind into the right mindset for this book.
Because basically this book is a wonderful epic fantasy. And I'm sure there are quite a few more books in this series to come. Because this book was mostly build up. We were slowly discovering the world, exploring the new Wonderland, which has become a complicated political world with 6 different kingdoms and 2 brutal queens reigning them all. We learned all the differences between the Wonderland we know from the famous Children Story and the broken Wonderland that really needs to be fixed.
This book is also slowly building up our knowledge of this new world, what might be really going on and what role our characters will play in it. In a lovely way Reitan added original poems, in the style of Lewis Caroll, to her story. Just like the ones we know they can be quite confusing at first, but they start making more sense the further we get into the story and the more we learn about our characters. And even though this Wonderland is completely different from the Wonderland we know, little details like those poems do give it a slightly familiar feel.
On top of that we also get to know the characters. We are very slowly introduced to all the key players in this story. We know that by the end of the story there will be at least 7 (if not more) guys in the harem, and yet we've only really gotten to know 4 so far. This gives us however the chance to get to know their personality, to understand what makes them tick, what their strengths and weaknesses are and I'm sure it will help in the end to tell them all apart.
So, this was not the fast easy light read I thought it would be. Instead this was a great first book in an epic fantasy series.
Because basically this book is a wonderful epic fantasy. And I'm sure there are quite a few more books in this series to come. Because this book was mostly build up. We were slowly discovering the world, exploring the new Wonderland, which has become a complicated political world with 6 different kingdoms and 2 brutal queens reigning them all. We learned all the differences between the Wonderland we know from the famous Children Story and the broken Wonderland that really needs to be fixed.
This book is also slowly building up our knowledge of this new world, what might be really going on and what role our characters will play in it. In a lovely way Reitan added original poems, in the style of Lewis Caroll, to her story. Just like the ones we know they can be quite confusing at first, but they start making more sense the further we get into the story and the more we learn about our characters. And even though this Wonderland is completely different from the Wonderland we know, little details like those poems do give it a slightly familiar feel.
On top of that we also get to know the characters. We are very slowly introduced to all the key players in this story. We know that by the end of the story there will be at least 7 (if not more) guys in the harem, and yet we've only really gotten to know 4 so far. This gives us however the chance to get to know their personality, to understand what makes them tick, what their strengths and weaknesses are and I'm sure it will help in the end to tell them all apart.
So, this was not the fast easy light read I thought it would be. Instead this was a great first book in an epic fantasy series.
January 18, 2022
I wanted this to be good.
I have never been quite so disappointed. The synopsis for this book was brilliant. The idea behind it sensational. The finished product though was wasted potential. Mal comes across as an idiot child who didn't study her subject matter nearly well enough. We'll get more into Mal in a moment but I digress. I'm Wonderland obsessed, a Wonderland addict so I'm aware I might be more familiar with it than most people. But if the character says that she's been studying Wonderland for over 10 years and then in, I think it was the second chapter, doesn't recognise the March Hare even when his name is an anagram of March Hare it makes me question if she was studying the right story. I mean there are two choices for her and she doesn't even hazard a guess. The writing was just not nearly as good as I was hoping it would be and honestly it was just BARELY good enough to keep me reading to midway and then stubbornness got me to the end. I will NOT be reading the rest of the series. Usually I'd say any Wonderland fix is better than none but it turns out that no Wonderland at all at all is actually the FAR better option here.
Mal. I don't even know where to begin. Honestly I've been rooting for the queens for most of the book because I hate her. She's careless and thoughtless and selfish and mean and so very stupid. I've wanted her just gone for over half the book, though my ranting about her has given my fiance a laugh. What ever happened to her brother? Oh right we don't know and are expected not to care because Mal doesn't care about anyone but herself. This is perfectly evidenced at the end of the book where she acts like the worlds most gigantic butt head.
Then there's Eagy and Ryph. This is what upset me and stuck in me head more than anything. Their whole relationship with her made me so very uncomfortable and honestly just really sad for them. The way it's written it seems as if they just want each other and are chasing a woman because it's what's expected of them and what they need to be able to have children. So they let her into their relationship and base it around her so that she'll want to stay with them and have their babies. And then she just goes and throws that back in their faces and I just... I'm so done.
I have so very much more to say about how much I disliked this book. But the only reason I finished it is because I'm so stubborn and I don't like to DNF. But now I just refuse to give it any more of my time than I already have. I have never been so disappointed in my entire life.
I have never been quite so disappointed. The synopsis for this book was brilliant. The idea behind it sensational. The finished product though was wasted potential. Mal comes across as an idiot child who didn't study her subject matter nearly well enough. We'll get more into Mal in a moment but I digress. I'm Wonderland obsessed, a Wonderland addict so I'm aware I might be more familiar with it than most people. But if the character says that she's been studying Wonderland for over 10 years and then in, I think it was the second chapter, doesn't recognise the March Hare even when his name is an anagram of March Hare it makes me question if she was studying the right story. I mean there are two choices for her and she doesn't even hazard a guess. The writing was just not nearly as good as I was hoping it would be and honestly it was just BARELY good enough to keep me reading to midway and then stubbornness got me to the end. I will NOT be reading the rest of the series. Usually I'd say any Wonderland fix is better than none but it turns out that no Wonderland at all at all is actually the FAR better option here.
Mal. I don't even know where to begin. Honestly I've been rooting for the queens for most of the book because I hate her. She's careless and thoughtless and selfish and mean and so very stupid. I've wanted her just gone for over half the book, though my ranting about her has given my fiance a laugh. What ever happened to her brother? Oh right we don't know and are expected not to care because Mal doesn't care about anyone but herself. This is perfectly evidenced at the end of the book where she acts like the worlds most gigantic butt head.
Then there's Eagy and Ryph. This is what upset me and stuck in me head more than anything. Their whole relationship with her made me so very uncomfortable and honestly just really sad for them. The way it's written it seems as if they just want each other and are chasing a woman because it's what's expected of them and what they need to be able to have children. So they let her into their relationship and base it around her so that she'll want to stay with them and have their babies. And then she just goes and throws that back in their faces and I just... I'm so done.
I have so very much more to say about how much I disliked this book. But the only reason I finished it is because I'm so stubborn and I don't like to DNF. But now I just refuse to give it any more of my time than I already have. I have never been so disappointed in my entire life.
December 24, 2021
This had such potential to be great, It wasn't.
September 28, 2020
Didn’t really like the FMC
I liked the beginning plot laid out in this book, it intrigued me. A really original concept and we were getting breadcrumbs to the overall mystery at a good clip- not too slow and not too fast. But then it stalled. Lots of walking around, lots of the FMC complaining (she supposed to be some highly trained person but she has no head for strategy and just kinda whines about baths- she is lacking and I wonder how she got picked for her job). The FMC is a bit prejudice, a bit slow, and just... there most of the time. We’re told things about her but her behavior doesn’t support it (an expert with blades never using one successfully? Trained for a decade in this fairy tale but tossing out partial theories and being really confused at all times?). I get wonderland is zany but the book stalled and we didn’t really get much in the way of the overarching plot that was introduced in the second half of the book. It was like it could have been any old RH plot in any world at that point. It felt like it got a little bit separated from the thing that was so unique and cool about the book premise a bit. I hope the next book explores character growth, relationships, plot, and mystery building. And maybe a smarter “fixer”. I’m sorry but I don’t believe she was “the One” chosen to fix an unfixable fairy tale with what I’ve seen - no mental or physical chops (were told but it’s just not actually there in the prose, no actual behavior to back it up). That is an author issue I think (were told pretty often how amazing these supernatural ladies are but it’s all talk and no substance- no battle acumen, no smarts, flowing with everyone’s else direction, nothing special other than her looks). She’s pretty with great hair, I get it. But show me she was the right choice to “fix” this place because so far, I’m not really convinced she is better than someone chosen off the street.
I liked the beginning plot laid out in this book, it intrigued me. A really original concept and we were getting breadcrumbs to the overall mystery at a good clip- not too slow and not too fast. But then it stalled. Lots of walking around, lots of the FMC complaining (she supposed to be some highly trained person but she has no head for strategy and just kinda whines about baths- she is lacking and I wonder how she got picked for her job). The FMC is a bit prejudice, a bit slow, and just... there most of the time. We’re told things about her but her behavior doesn’t support it (an expert with blades never using one successfully? Trained for a decade in this fairy tale but tossing out partial theories and being really confused at all times?). I get wonderland is zany but the book stalled and we didn’t really get much in the way of the overarching plot that was introduced in the second half of the book. It was like it could have been any old RH plot in any world at that point. It felt like it got a little bit separated from the thing that was so unique and cool about the book premise a bit. I hope the next book explores character growth, relationships, plot, and mystery building. And maybe a smarter “fixer”. I’m sorry but I don’t believe she was “the One” chosen to fix an unfixable fairy tale with what I’ve seen - no mental or physical chops (were told but it’s just not actually there in the prose, no actual behavior to back it up). That is an author issue I think (were told pretty often how amazing these supernatural ladies are but it’s all talk and no substance- no battle acumen, no smarts, flowing with everyone’s else direction, nothing special other than her looks). She’s pretty with great hair, I get it. But show me she was the right choice to “fix” this place because so far, I’m not really convinced she is better than someone chosen off the street.
August 8, 2020
Toxic Wonderland is a brilliant adaptation of a classic. It's also quite different from the other ones I have read.
Loved the characters and they are not what you expect. They are so twisted from the original but still quite lovable. It was fun trying to guess who was who because sometimes I, couldn't immediately place the characters to the original story. It was also fun trying to guess, who will end up in the harem.
The beginning was a little bit slower than the rest of the story. It was mostly setting up the characters and plot. The action picked up almost immediately, and this book had a lot of it. It was a wild ride from the beginning to the end.
There was a lot of travelling and introducing places and characters. I already love some of them.
Lots of steam and sexy times.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and it left me shooked. After finishing this book, all I could think was I need more now.
*Mild spoiler*
Loved how the author included other fairytales to this dark Wonderland. It made this toxic version stand out even more.
*Spoiler over*
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
Loved the characters and they are not what you expect. They are so twisted from the original but still quite lovable. It was fun trying to guess who was who because sometimes I, couldn't immediately place the characters to the original story. It was also fun trying to guess, who will end up in the harem.
The beginning was a little bit slower than the rest of the story. It was mostly setting up the characters and plot. The action picked up almost immediately, and this book had a lot of it. It was a wild ride from the beginning to the end.
There was a lot of travelling and introducing places and characters. I already love some of them.
Lots of steam and sexy times.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and it left me shooked. After finishing this book, all I could think was I need more now.
*Mild spoiler*
Loved how the author included other fairytales to this dark Wonderland. It made this toxic version stand out even more.
*Spoiler over*
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2020
’Mal, this is no longer Wonderland. It would serve you well to remember that.’
Now, if I’m being honest, this is not my first Alice in Wonderland retelling and neither is it my first Reverse Harem version either! However, I did enjoy this book. Of course there were some similarities, but they were ones you would find in any retelling, but there were also so many original ideas within this book that I really did want to continue reading and find out what happened next!
The opening of the book grabbed my attention straight away, and I was super intrigued about Mal and the three other ‘fixer’s’ who are to go in and help save the Fairytale they have been assigned! One slight downside though was the fact that I was just as interested in the three tales the other three had been given to fix and would love to have known about their journeys too.
Mal is a great female lead and I found her both funny and feisty. I really like both Gryph and Eagy too! The dynamic between the three of them is so good and I really enjoyed watching the relationship between them grow.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Now, if I’m being honest, this is not my first Alice in Wonderland retelling and neither is it my first Reverse Harem version either! However, I did enjoy this book. Of course there were some similarities, but they were ones you would find in any retelling, but there were also so many original ideas within this book that I really did want to continue reading and find out what happened next!
The opening of the book grabbed my attention straight away, and I was super intrigued about Mal and the three other ‘fixer’s’ who are to go in and help save the Fairytale they have been assigned! One slight downside though was the fact that I was just as interested in the three tales the other three had been given to fix and would love to have known about their journeys too.
Mal is a great female lead and I found her both funny and feisty. I really like both Gryph and Eagy too! The dynamic between the three of them is so good and I really enjoyed watching the relationship between them grow.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2020
I really enjoyed this twist on Alice in Wonderland. This book is not for the faint of heart. There is a lot of violence. There is also a lot of heart. I was expecting more heat than what was given. I am not saying that is a bad thing just was expecting more. I also was expecting Mal to be with Chesh before Wyat. The way the Wonderlands talk is different from our world which makes for some big miscommunications. I am interested to see if some characters will come back as part of her 7 and who the new ones will be. I look forward to reading this series in full.
*I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*
*I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*
January 16, 2025
Fairytale Retelling - reverse harem
Series: must be read in order
Format: digital (owned)
I really enjoyed this! I have a borderline obsession with all things Alice in Wonderland, so I went into this with a healthy dose of hope and excitement. Relieved to say I wasn’t disappointed. The characters were fun and interesting recreations and I enjoyed the overarching plot line. Will definitely continue the series. Also, this cover is incredible! 😍
Tags and content warnings: (may contain spoilers)
fairytale retelling, Alice in wonderland, but make it dark and spicy, reverse harem, m/f, m/m, m/f/m, explicit content, graphic violence, childhood abuse/neglect, quest, shifters, murder, cullings, not enough females to go around, miscommunication, relationship drama, established relationship, poly aspects, cliffhanger ending, alternate universe, fairytale corruption
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series: must be read in order
Format: digital (owned)
I really enjoyed this! I have a borderline obsession with all things Alice in Wonderland, so I went into this with a healthy dose of hope and excitement. Relieved to say I wasn’t disappointed. The characters were fun and interesting recreations and I enjoyed the overarching plot line. Will definitely continue the series. Also, this cover is incredible! 😍
Tags and content warnings: (may contain spoilers)
fairytale retelling, Alice in wonderland, but make it dark and spicy, reverse harem, m/f, m/m, m/f/m, explicit content, graphic violence, childhood abuse/neglect, quest, shifters, murder, cullings, not enough females to go around, miscommunication, relationship drama, established relationship, poly aspects, cliffhanger ending, alternate universe, fairytale corruption
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 28, 2023
Interesting take on a retelling. It's sort of a dystopian fairy tale? This is book 1 of a 8 book series (2 connected sub-series of 4 books each), so there's not a lot of major plot answers to be gained so far. Plot-wise not a lot occurs. A lot of walking around. A lot of going from one place to another. Some sex. Finding more people to add to their cause. And learning tidbits of the world, like that another fairy tale has infected Wonderland and merged. I wasn't too annoyed with the lack of info/answers because it's only book 1 and much like a pilot of a TV show, you're not going to understand and learn everything right away.
As for the relationship aspect... This is mostly at the moment MMF (MF at times) with MM. Though it does seem to be a RH, I assume that occurs later. Though she acquired at least 2 more men (besides her 2 men she got in the beginning - Eagy and Ryph), things didn't really progress to full RH in this book. Some of the sex was more graphic, but I was glad that some was only hinted at (like one MC hearing them having sex in the other room), because I think having long, detailed sex scenes all the time would get old. At least I've found that to be the case. I'm fine with sex, but too much of bogs down the plot at times.
I did think the argument at near the end was sort of weird though. If all of them would have just talked, none of this would have happened.
Also, I'll just say, the sex with Wyat was pretty weird.
All this said, I liked the book enough to be interested in things, though it does have some flaws. I will give #2 a try to see if things improve. First books of longer series are hard to judge at times, because of their plot and characterization limitations. So, I'll see how things go with the next one at least.
Edit: 2/10/22 - I think I'm going to pass on this series, I got too many books on my TBR and this wasn't so great that I'd want to drop everything to continue it.
As for the relationship aspect... This is mostly at the moment MMF (MF at times) with MM. Though it does seem to be a RH, I assume that occurs later. Though she acquired at least 2 more men (besides her 2 men she got in the beginning - Eagy and Ryph), things didn't really progress to full RH in this book. Some of the sex was more graphic, but I was glad that some was only hinted at (like one MC hearing them having sex in the other room), because I think having long, detailed sex scenes all the time would get old. At least I've found that to be the case. I'm fine with sex, but too much of bogs down the plot at times.
I did think the argument at near the end was sort of weird though. If all of them would have just talked, none of this would have happened.
Also, I'll just say, the sex with Wyat was pretty weird.
All this said, I liked the book enough to be interested in things, though it does have some flaws. I will give #2 a try to see if things improve. First books of longer series are hard to judge at times, because of their plot and characterization limitations. So, I'll see how things go with the next one at least.
Edit: 2/10/22 - I think I'm going to pass on this series, I got too many books on my TBR and this wasn't so great that I'd want to drop everything to continue it.
September 3, 2020
I'm a huge fan of Alice in Wonderland themed books, but this one blew me a way! It is such a different take and put so many wonderful twists on an already twisted world. The idea of having people go into fairytales to fix them in order to keep them on track for their happily ever after is such an interesting idea. The fairytales are broken, some more than others and Mal has probably got the most confusing and unpredictable of worlds to fix. I really loved the possibility of other fairy tales blending in with the current one, taking what we know already and making us question which story needs to be focused on in order to fix the problems. But it seems that this world, Wonderland, Laddenworn, was well broken way before the 27 fixers before Mal. How did it get to this point and what is causing all of these issues? There are layer upon layer of problems once you really take a look at the whole thing: infertility, queens going on killing sprees, the frozen time, the madness slowly encompassing the people. I'm excited to see how each problem is addressed and how they will hopefully and eventually fix them all, bringing Wonderland back to its original state of madness. I think Reitan outdid herself with this book. Even the little poems included inside are amazing and well thought out to go along with the story. She created a world that is crazy but has so much storybuilding to it that it makes it believable (or as close to it as you can get). The hierarchy of women vs men was an unexpected one. Most women took advantage of that role, that control they were granted simply by being female, and warped into something terrible, using it to control, torment, and embarrass the men that were part of their group. What do you expect when they have such great role models like the Queens? Laddenworn is a cruel place sometimes but Mal is shown that there are still things that provide happiness in this world that are worth fighting for and worth saving. I'm looking forward to seeing how Reitan develops this story and puts even more twists on the fairytale that we know and love.
I wonder if the other three doors that her brother and friends went into are this far off track as well. Do they also have other fairytales invading and spreading throughout the original? I'd love to see their stories as well!
I wonder if the other three doors that her brother and friends went into are this far off track as well. Do they also have other fairytales invading and spreading throughout the original? I'd love to see their stories as well!
August 13, 2020
I loved this book even though it’s not what I was expecting. I liked the idea of people going in to fix fairytales and devoting their life to the cause. Crea put a new spin on retellings and I’m intrigued to see how her version of Wonderland unfolds.
Mal had a strong, curious, and loving personality. Eagy and Ryph’s relationship was beautiful and I loved how devoted Ryph was to him. Chesh was probably my favorite guy because of his personality, what he was, and I loved what he could shift into. Wyatt wasn’t what I was expecting him to be and it was a twist that took me by surprise when I thought I had him figured out. I also really liked Ache and Lorem and their roles within this twisted mashed up tale.
The world building was vivid and descriptive. I found myself many times being able to visualize the different parts of Laddenworn and would love to visit The Keys. I liked that Crea included poems in Lewis Carroll’s style within the story to tell its past and future to come. I can’t wait to see other characters fit into certain roles and relationships form while Mal figures out how to fix her new home.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Mal had a strong, curious, and loving personality. Eagy and Ryph’s relationship was beautiful and I loved how devoted Ryph was to him. Chesh was probably my favorite guy because of his personality, what he was, and I loved what he could shift into. Wyatt wasn’t what I was expecting him to be and it was a twist that took me by surprise when I thought I had him figured out. I also really liked Ache and Lorem and their roles within this twisted mashed up tale.
The world building was vivid and descriptive. I found myself many times being able to visualize the different parts of Laddenworn and would love to visit The Keys. I liked that Crea included poems in Lewis Carroll’s style within the story to tell its past and future to come. I can’t wait to see other characters fit into certain roles and relationships form while Mal figures out how to fix her new home.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
August 16, 2020
I loved this book so much ❤️❤���❤️❤️.
Toxic Wonderland is a dark and steamy tale reverse harem set in Wonderland. Mal belongs to an organisation who’s job is to fix fairy tales and stories that have somehow become twisted and corrupted and Alice in Wonderland is one of the worst. Wonderland has been corrupted so badly that Mal doesn’t even know where to begin to fix it.
Mal is such a strong, fierce and gutsy character. She chooses the most difficult job and embraces the challenge wholeheartedly. She has a very strong sense of right and wrong and doesn’t hesitate to stand up to people who treat others badly. She meets a number of different men throughout the book and enlists their aid in fixing Wonderland. Mal has been trained to fight and does not hesitate to jump in to protect the people that she grows to care about.
I am so excited for the next book to come out to find out what is next for Mal and her men
Toxic Wonderland is a dark and steamy tale reverse harem set in Wonderland. Mal belongs to an organisation who’s job is to fix fairy tales and stories that have somehow become twisted and corrupted and Alice in Wonderland is one of the worst. Wonderland has been corrupted so badly that Mal doesn’t even know where to begin to fix it.
Mal is such a strong, fierce and gutsy character. She chooses the most difficult job and embraces the challenge wholeheartedly. She has a very strong sense of right and wrong and doesn’t hesitate to stand up to people who treat others badly. She meets a number of different men throughout the book and enlists their aid in fixing Wonderland. Mal has been trained to fight and does not hesitate to jump in to protect the people that she grows to care about.
I am so excited for the next book to come out to find out what is next for Mal and her men
August 15, 2020
Mal has trained for years with an organization known as DeadEnd to be able to go into, and fix broken fairy tales. Her assignment is Wonderland, she has studied many versions of the classic fairy tale, and is confident in her ability to fix Wonderland. She will quickly realize why the twenty-seven sent before her failed to fix Wonderland. This fairly tale is more damaged, and in a way that no could have ever expected, and she will need help from the natives.
This isn't the sweet classic fairy tale you remember. It's dark, it's twisted, and it's bloody. There is murder, mayhem, magic, shifters, and other paranormal creatures. I loved these characters, all of them. Fascinating, compelling, and sometimes crazy, their interactions kept me engrossed in these pages. The many surprising, and unexpected twists made my head spin. Needless to say, I can't wait for the next book. Fantastic!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This isn't the sweet classic fairy tale you remember. It's dark, it's twisted, and it's bloody. There is murder, mayhem, magic, shifters, and other paranormal creatures. I loved these characters, all of them. Fascinating, compelling, and sometimes crazy, their interactions kept me engrossed in these pages. The many surprising, and unexpected twists made my head spin. Needless to say, I can't wait for the next book. Fantastic!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 1, 2020
Great adaptation of a much loved classic. so refreshing and not like any other wonderland book I’ve read, and I’ve read a lot of them. Loved how it links to another well known tale bringing something new to the story. I am fast becoming completely obsessed with this twisted toxic version of wonderland.
I’m a big fan of playlists and Inspiration boards, the author providing links to mood noise for certain chapters was a touch of genius and really brought things to life.
Characters are nothing like you would expect while still keeping the core of the original characters they have been based on. All are twisted but completely lovable.
I really enjoyed the journal at back along with the ballads however when I realised what a cliff the author has left us on I may or may not have thrown a tantrum. I need book 2 immediately.
I’m a big fan of playlists and Inspiration boards, the author providing links to mood noise for certain chapters was a touch of genius and really brought things to life.
Characters are nothing like you would expect while still keeping the core of the original characters they have been based on. All are twisted but completely lovable.
I really enjoyed the journal at back along with the ballads however when I realised what a cliff the author has left us on I may or may not have thrown a tantrum. I need book 2 immediately.
August 13, 2020
Wowwwww! I really didn’t know what to expect with this book. I was hooked from the very beginning, unable to put the book down, the storyline just draws you in and you feel the need to want to know more. I was really disappointed when it ended as I didn’t feel ready for the adventure to stop at such a great part in the book so, now I can’t wait to read the next one! I don’t usually like reading a book when the next part isn’t out as I’m really impatient but I’m really excited to see what happens next! This book is full of amazing characters, it was pretty steamy from the first few chapters. It’s the first book I’ve read from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it, definitely deserved the full 5 star review! I can’t wait to review Magical Wonderland as soon as it’s available. I read this book as an ARC!
September 10, 2020
4.5 rounded up
I love Wonderland stories, especially the twisted ones - and this is more twisted than most. Darkly melodic and filled with the delightful madness a wonderland, Or Laddenword in this case, can inspire, this tale takes a definite adult turn into the classic fairy tale, skirting the details while remaining loyal to the feeling. I enjoyed the writing style, though the proliferation of rhymes and stanzas did wear after a while. Sometimes I felt like I was rubbing to catch up to the characters or missing what seemed so obvious to them, but it all still comes together nicely.
Fair warning, ends on a brutal cliff.
Third person, multiple POV, Fast burn RH, M/M included, explicit violence and intimate scenes. Insinuation of childhood abuse.
I love Wonderland stories, especially the twisted ones - and this is more twisted than most. Darkly melodic and filled with the delightful madness a wonderland, Or Laddenword in this case, can inspire, this tale takes a definite adult turn into the classic fairy tale, skirting the details while remaining loyal to the feeling. I enjoyed the writing style, though the proliferation of rhymes and stanzas did wear after a while. Sometimes I felt like I was rubbing to catch up to the characters or missing what seemed so obvious to them, but it all still comes together nicely.
Fair warning, ends on a brutal cliff.
Third person, multiple POV, Fast burn RH, M/M included, explicit violence and intimate scenes. Insinuation of childhood abuse.
August 8, 2020
This book was so cool! It's super interesting and crazy. I loved all the rhymes and the mistery. I feel there is still so much to discover and to overcome. Mal is strong and I love her no bullsh*it personality and how she always defended Eagy. Eagy is so sweet, I was so sad that he is insecure for being just an "eaglet" and was afraid Mal didn't want him, ugh I wanted to strangle everyone who's hurt him. Ryph and Eagy's relationship is super sweet, I love that they have their own "thing". Wyat and Chesh... Damn i was a bit worried in that scene between Mal and Wyat 😂
I can't wait for what comes next in the series 💗
I can't wait for what comes next in the series 💗
August 28, 2020
Not your average Wonderland!! This isn’t like any other book that I’ve read. I really enjoyed this spin on Wonderland and Mal’s introduction. I’m kind of loving how Mal is this fiercely independent woman there to right the wrongs and somehow is getting this sexy harem without knowing what’s really happening. Surprise, you get 7 sexy dudes lol! Well eventually, I love the quest to gather everyone and trying to figure out who is who in relation to the original fairytale. I’m hoping Ache and Adhem are going to be part of the group soon.
August 29, 2020
Wow
So, to begin with I wasn’t so sure what to make of Toxic wonderland but all I can say now is wow. I got completely and utterly sucked into the world of wonderland and I NEED to know what happens. It’s so hard to write this review without giving any spoilers away. You just have to read it. It’s not like a book I have ever read before and I will be downloading book 2 as soon as it’s live. Mal is one tough woman and her men well you just fall in love with them all in a different way. It’s a must read!
So, to begin with I wasn’t so sure what to make of Toxic wonderland but all I can say now is wow. I got completely and utterly sucked into the world of wonderland and I NEED to know what happens. It’s so hard to write this review without giving any spoilers away. You just have to read it. It’s not like a book I have ever read before and I will be downloading book 2 as soon as it’s live. Mal is one tough woman and her men well you just fall in love with them all in a different way. It’s a must read!
August 13, 2020
I received an ARC of Toxic Wonderland in exchange for a review. It's not normally a book I would read I don't usually like magical fairytale books but I wanted to try something different. I ended up really liking this book. It's an Alice In Wonderland retelling with some Snow White thrown in. I really liked the idea of rescuing the fairytale and the poems and riddles thrown in. The ending was unexpected and I am impatiently waiting for the next book to come out
August 25, 2020
This book was such an enjoyable remake on a classic. I loved how it was so different from all the others. It took the time to build up the characters and the world it's set in. I also enjoyed how you didn't instantly know which character from Wonderland Mal was interacting with. I also enjoyed the fact that Mal was a strong lead character. Would definitely recommend this book and the ending has me impatiently waiting for the next!!
August 8, 2020
Wow, this book had me from the moment that I started reading. It moves along at a great pace, has amazing characters that you cannot help but fall in love with and a story that will keep you reading and wanting more. This book needs to be read, no doubt about it. So add it to your TBR list, you wont be sorry.
August 26, 2020
Toxic Wonderland is in a book genre of its own!! First off the writing style is different, the rhymes, characters and surroundings are all equally important in the book. There is nothing simple about this book. It is intricate and well-written and well thought out. I look forward to the next book and the development of the new characters and how mal saves wonderland!
September 3, 2020
Great epic story line... I will patiently be awaiting the next book in the series, I cannot wait to find out whats going to happen next... well done!
April 7, 2021
My favorite Alice retelling!
I only recently just found this author and just by happenstance actually. As soon as I saw the covers of this series, I knew this was next on my list to read. I have read many retellings of Alice in Wonderland and even read Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and this one is by far my favorite. I am absolutely blown away by this author’s creativity with her retelling. This one is a cut above the rest with an incredibly complex and intricate plot.
I can tell that the author did a lot of research into the original story as well as the various popular retellings since it really shines through in the writing. The ideas of fairy tale “fixers” and of a toxic Wonderland that is possibly infected by another fairy tale was an interesting approach that fascinated me. The author did a great job creating a mysterious plot that leaves just enough breadcrumbs for the reader to formulate several of their own theories but still leaves us eager for more intrigue and mystique.
The characters we have been introduced to so far have been fairly easy to correlate between the original characters even though they seem to be twisted in someway because of the toxicity infecting the world. The relationship development and growth between Ryph, Eagy, and Mal seem to be the most advanced which makes sense considering how long they’ve been around each other. The relationships with Mal and the 2 others are in different stages and not quite as developed which is to be expected. I am eager to read Mal and her other men have more quality time where it’s just the 2 of them to allow for them to connect, as well as the reader to connect with their relationship.
I appreciate the author including Mal’s notes at the end on her observations and evolving theories of what could possibly be happening and potential solutions. All the rhymes were included at the end to which allowed me to reread them so I could formulate my own theories after reading the 1st book in its entirety.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys RH, Wonderland retellings, some MM 🤤🔥, darker reads, and intricate plots.
I only recently just found this author and just by happenstance actually. As soon as I saw the covers of this series, I knew this was next on my list to read. I have read many retellings of Alice in Wonderland and even read Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and this one is by far my favorite. I am absolutely blown away by this author’s creativity with her retelling. This one is a cut above the rest with an incredibly complex and intricate plot.
I can tell that the author did a lot of research into the original story as well as the various popular retellings since it really shines through in the writing. The ideas of fairy tale “fixers” and of a toxic Wonderland that is possibly infected by another fairy tale was an interesting approach that fascinated me. The author did a great job creating a mysterious plot that leaves just enough breadcrumbs for the reader to formulate several of their own theories but still leaves us eager for more intrigue and mystique.
The characters we have been introduced to so far have been fairly easy to correlate between the original characters even though they seem to be twisted in someway because of the toxicity infecting the world. The relationship development and growth between Ryph, Eagy, and Mal seem to be the most advanced which makes sense considering how long they’ve been around each other. The relationships with Mal and the 2 others are in different stages and not quite as developed which is to be expected. I am eager to read Mal and her other men have more quality time where it’s just the 2 of them to allow for them to connect, as well as the reader to connect with their relationship.
I appreciate the author including Mal’s notes at the end on her observations and evolving theories of what could possibly be happening and potential solutions. All the rhymes were included at the end to which allowed me to reread them so I could formulate my own theories after reading the 1st book in its entirety.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys RH, Wonderland retellings, some MM 🤤🔥, darker reads, and intricate plots.
August 1, 2020
OMG...... This book is absolutely amazing! If you love Alice in Wonderland retellings you will love this book!! Mal and her twin escaped an abusive situation when younger and found a home at DeadEnd learning to be a fixer. They set off to fix their fairytales and Mal ends up in Laddenworn, aka Wonderland. The story takes you on a wild ride with lots of steam and action. 🔥 Also there is plenty of mystery and maybe some fairytale mixing?? That ending though..... 😩. You will definitely be wanting more after you read this fabulous book! Love it! 💜🖤
September 3, 2021
Pleasantly surprised!!
Okay, I honestly laughed this book of within the first chapter. But then it clicked that this is the same author that wrote Blood of the Devil, and it's AMAZING. I sucked it up and dove back in, totally worth it!
I find myself again saying, you have NEVER read a book like this. These characters are insane, and I don't mean in the mad way. There's enough mystery that you can't guess all of them right away, and it's fun to try. I've forced my friends to help with some.
Great start to the series, I'm excited for book two!
Okay, I honestly laughed this book of within the first chapter. But then it clicked that this is the same author that wrote Blood of the Devil, and it's AMAZING. I sucked it up and dove back in, totally worth it!
I find myself again saying, you have NEVER read a book like this. These characters are insane, and I don't mean in the mad way. There's enough mystery that you can't guess all of them right away, and it's fun to try. I've forced my friends to help with some.
Great start to the series, I'm excited for book two!
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