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Mad World: Lost Souls
These are mad times in Wonderland.
An adult epic fantasy re-imagining the classic characters in never before seen or read ways exploring Wonderland's bloody history and dark intrigues.
Cheshire, a rogue branded Queen Slayer, uses the madness to his advantage. While on the run, he searches for answers to a mystery only he remembers, and may the gods have mercy on those who stand contrary.
Jonathan, a gentleman of the highest caliber, along with March, a legendary swordswoman, live together in solitude to escape the madness. Together, their days are filled with swords, pleasures, and teas, only missing Cheshire. They want nothing more than to remain lost, and will go to any lengths necessary to make sure of it.
But their lives and all of Wonderland are thrown into chaos by the unexpected appearance of Mary Anne, a young woman from another world.
To keep all they hold dear, Cheshire, Jonathan, and March must descend deeper into the madness, risking everything to do something about this strange woman before her presence brings their worlds crashing down like a house of cards. But it may already be too late.
Mad World: Lost Souls is the first book in the epic fantasy Mad World Saga and the debut novel of author Brandon T Bernard.
Warning: This novel contains graphic violence, sexual content, and adult language. Reader discretion is advised.
An adult epic fantasy re-imagining the classic characters in never before seen or read ways exploring Wonderland's bloody history and dark intrigues.
Cheshire, a rogue branded Queen Slayer, uses the madness to his advantage. While on the run, he searches for answers to a mystery only he remembers, and may the gods have mercy on those who stand contrary.
Jonathan, a gentleman of the highest caliber, along with March, a legendary swordswoman, live together in solitude to escape the madness. Together, their days are filled with swords, pleasures, and teas, only missing Cheshire. They want nothing more than to remain lost, and will go to any lengths necessary to make sure of it.
But their lives and all of Wonderland are thrown into chaos by the unexpected appearance of Mary Anne, a young woman from another world.
To keep all they hold dear, Cheshire, Jonathan, and March must descend deeper into the madness, risking everything to do something about this strange woman before her presence brings their worlds crashing down like a house of cards. But it may already be too late.
Mad World: Lost Souls is the first book in the epic fantasy Mad World Saga and the debut novel of author Brandon T Bernard.
Warning: This novel contains graphic violence, sexual content, and adult language. Reader discretion is advised.
- GenresFantasyEpic Fantasy
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2021
54 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 1, 2025
Such a fun read! Twists and turns and just enough of a nod to the OG Alice. So unique and so different, but you still get that classic you love. March, Jonathan and Cheshire are phenomenal characters. The story keeps you interested and the fact that it’s a series, you will absolutely come back for more!
January 8, 2025
This was an amazing book. The writing is eloquent and beautiful. The characters are well developed and well thought out.
October 25, 2023
Fun, action packed, queer AF! what more could you want???
This Alice in Wonderland inspired story (but NOT a retelling) was the perfect amount of adventure and nostalgia for me. Don't go in expecting a story about a lost girl chasing The White Rabbit and other fantastical animals, everyone in this book is human (ish?) and HOT 😂.
Fast facts:
3 main POV characters
MMF throuple
morally gray characters
LGBTQ+ rep
2🌶️- there is definitely sexy time but it is not overly explicit in its description.
We jump right into the action as Cheshire (a bit of a bad boy, mystery, not a cat, like 1000 years old???) is snooping for information (for what, the reader doesn't really know) and causing chaos. He runs into the Ace of Spades, who has been chasing Cheshire down with the intent to kill him with his giant axe for YEARS.
Meanwhile, Jonathan (the mad hatter of our story, tea enthusiast, lots of abs) is preparing his afternoon tea. He and his partner March (swordswoman, badass, full name Audrianna March) live happily in their Hollow away from the madness of Wonderland, enjoying tea, sexy time, and sword fighting practice. Dormy (not a mouse, bit of a kleptomaniac) also sometimes visits them in her wagon of wares and is currently joining them for tea.
As Cheshire is running from the Ace, he unfortunately brings the danger and drama with him to the Hollow where he runs into Mary Anne (regular human from the "real world") who has stumbled into Wonderland. In a rush to save himself, he leaves Mary Anne behind to probably get killed by the Ace but luckily Jonathan is there to save the day.
Now that we've met the main cast, it is time for the adventure. Mary Anne wants desperately to return home, Jonathan feels it is his duty to help, March goes along even though she doesn't want to because she loves Jonathan, Dormy is transportation, and Cheshire has his own reasons for wanting to "help". We join them on their journey full of unexpected danger to the capital of Wonderland to find answers for Mary Anne (and possibly for Cheshire???)
I really enjoyed the quick pace of the book and the characters. Because it is in Wonderland and everyone is a bit mad, it felt a little unreliable narrator-y so there are still some aspects the reader is not given the full details of but I imagine we learn more in the following books. For example, there is clearly more history to Cheshire, March, and Jonathan's pasts that is left undisclosed but that I think will have an impact on if they will be able to get Mary Anne home. A bit of a cliffhanger ending but this is just the beginning of their adventure together!
I would also like to give credit to the author clearly putting their whole heart and soul into this book. Not just the writing, but designing the cover as well!
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. :)
This Alice in Wonderland inspired story (but NOT a retelling) was the perfect amount of adventure and nostalgia for me. Don't go in expecting a story about a lost girl chasing The White Rabbit and other fantastical animals, everyone in this book is human (ish?) and HOT 😂.
Fast facts:
3 main POV characters
MMF throuple
morally gray characters
LGBTQ+ rep
2🌶️- there is definitely sexy time but it is not overly explicit in its description.
We jump right into the action as Cheshire (a bit of a bad boy, mystery, not a cat, like 1000 years old???) is snooping for information (for what, the reader doesn't really know) and causing chaos. He runs into the Ace of Spades, who has been chasing Cheshire down with the intent to kill him with his giant axe for YEARS.
Meanwhile, Jonathan (the mad hatter of our story, tea enthusiast, lots of abs) is preparing his afternoon tea. He and his partner March (swordswoman, badass, full name Audrianna March) live happily in their Hollow away from the madness of Wonderland, enjoying tea, sexy time, and sword fighting practice. Dormy (not a mouse, bit of a kleptomaniac) also sometimes visits them in her wagon of wares and is currently joining them for tea.
As Cheshire is running from the Ace, he unfortunately brings the danger and drama with him to the Hollow where he runs into Mary Anne (regular human from the "real world") who has stumbled into Wonderland. In a rush to save himself, he leaves Mary Anne behind to probably get killed by the Ace but luckily Jonathan is there to save the day.
Now that we've met the main cast, it is time for the adventure. Mary Anne wants desperately to return home, Jonathan feels it is his duty to help, March goes along even though she doesn't want to because she loves Jonathan, Dormy is transportation, and Cheshire has his own reasons for wanting to "help". We join them on their journey full of unexpected danger to the capital of Wonderland to find answers for Mary Anne (and possibly for Cheshire???)
I really enjoyed the quick pace of the book and the characters. Because it is in Wonderland and everyone is a bit mad, it felt a little unreliable narrator-y so there are still some aspects the reader is not given the full details of but I imagine we learn more in the following books. For example, there is clearly more history to Cheshire, March, and Jonathan's pasts that is left undisclosed but that I think will have an impact on if they will be able to get Mary Anne home. A bit of a cliffhanger ending but this is just the beginning of their adventure together!
I would also like to give credit to the author clearly putting their whole heart and soul into this book. Not just the writing, but designing the cover as well!
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. :)
January 23, 2023
Interesting read. I wasn’t sure what to expect from yet another variation or retelling of the Alice in Wonderland tale. I enjoyed the reimagining of the classic characters and I am looking forward to the next chapter. The story moved at a quick pace, although I felt some of the sex scenes were a bit repetitive and gratuitous (but that’s just my opinion). I wonder what other Wonderland characters will show up in the next book?
April 15, 2024
This was an absolutely dark and whimsical ride that I was not expecting. When I heard that this was an Alice in Wonderland retelling by Lewis Carroll I was super excited because I really enjoy that novel. This has just enough elements to tie it to Alice in Wonderland while still being its own piece of work.
This has some really great things going for it as a series. The characters are complex, flawed and extremely interesting. The pacing was really well done and it had great fantasy elements alongside some romantic elements. It has great queer representation, including a polyamorous relationship. It had some really great Marley, gray characters as well as a wonderful mysteries surrounding everything. I was not prepared for how dark and brutal the battle elements would be in the novel. But I absolutely loved it and found it to be a great addition to the novel. The romantic scenes were not at all cringe and they were not close door, but they were not overly graphic.
Being that the novel really set up the storyline and gave us a great beginning towards what I anticipate will be a amazing series, I cannot wait to get to the second book.
This has some really great things going for it as a series. The characters are complex, flawed and extremely interesting. The pacing was really well done and it had great fantasy elements alongside some romantic elements. It has great queer representation, including a polyamorous relationship. It had some really great Marley, gray characters as well as a wonderful mysteries surrounding everything. I was not prepared for how dark and brutal the battle elements would be in the novel. But I absolutely loved it and found it to be a great addition to the novel. The romantic scenes were not at all cringe and they were not close door, but they were not overly graphic.
Being that the novel really set up the storyline and gave us a great beginning towards what I anticipate will be a amazing series, I cannot wait to get to the second book.
February 20, 2025
An epic fantasy with great characters. I truly had fun reading this book. Can't wait to get the next one. The writing is great & did I mention the characters are fantastic. A must read indie book!
August 30, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! At first I wasn’t sure if it was something I’d like but after a couple chapters I was down the rabbit hole!
November 28, 2022
This was such a fun read! I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the first page to the cliffhanger ending (which Book 2 will be coming soon). This book was first discovered by me on my Facebook timeline. I glanced at the cover then went to Amazon for a blurb and was instantly hooked on buying this self published gem.
Mad World is about Wonderland. But not the Wonderland everyone is familiar with. There are queer gender bent characters in this and they are so fleshed out and written well that you are left craving more from this world. Cheshire is my favorite character out of all of them (so far).
I am hoping that Brandon does more of these novels and expands on the world building. I would love a Cheshire and Jonathan story. I needed a more light hearted yet dark read. It was a quick, fulfilling read and I simply cannot wait until book 2.
Mad World is about Wonderland. But not the Wonderland everyone is familiar with. There are queer gender bent characters in this and they are so fleshed out and written well that you are left craving more from this world. Cheshire is my favorite character out of all of them (so far).
I am hoping that Brandon does more of these novels and expands on the world building. I would love a Cheshire and Jonathan story. I needed a more light hearted yet dark read. It was a quick, fulfilling read and I simply cannot wait until book 2.
December 14, 2021
This is such an incredible book by debut author Brandon Bernard.
If you love richly woven, dark fairytale retellings, then this is the book for you.
Brandon demonstrates not only a passionate knowledge of the original fairytale but a unique and thoughtful approach to plot, character, and world. This is a story that compelled me from start to finish.
There is beautiful representation of strong women and LGBT characters providing a distinct and refreshing spin on this classic tale. Each character has their own personality, and I love that they all have relatable flaws and characteristics. The romantic elements are full of love and passion, the action scenes are thrilling, and the references to the classic fairytale, amongst some subtle easter eggs to modern interpretations such as American McGee's Alice video game, are delightful.
This is an author to watch for sure.
If you love richly woven, dark fairytale retellings, then this is the book for you.
Brandon demonstrates not only a passionate knowledge of the original fairytale but a unique and thoughtful approach to plot, character, and world. This is a story that compelled me from start to finish.
There is beautiful representation of strong women and LGBT characters providing a distinct and refreshing spin on this classic tale. Each character has their own personality, and I love that they all have relatable flaws and characteristics. The romantic elements are full of love and passion, the action scenes are thrilling, and the references to the classic fairytale, amongst some subtle easter eggs to modern interpretations such as American McGee's Alice video game, are delightful.
This is an author to watch for sure.
December 12, 2021
Original, intriguing and exciting. I need more
Absolutely captivated me from the start, I read it all in one go and could not put it down. More pleas4
Absolutely captivated me from the start, I read it all in one go and could not put it down. More pleas4
October 3, 2022
i cried
October 25, 2023
Minor Spoilers
I first want to say this was the author's debut novel and that is a wonderful achievement as writing and publishing a book and putting yourself out there like that is very admirable and as I understand it, he also designed that beautiful cover. Now I want to say this was going to be a 2 for me but what got me to a 3 was the third act and the Cheshire character. I think the main issue is how this book was marketed. This was marketed as a grimsdark, spicy, polygamous, fantasy, alice in wonderland retelling. I am not super familiar with grimsdark but from what I have researched this book meets that definition. But everywhere else it just fell short for me.
For example, the author lists the content warnings as sexual content with a polygamous couple, so I went in expecting it to be spicy. However, I would barely give it a 2 on the spice. there are sexual encounters, but they are brief and most written using broad flowery descriptive words to get around actually describing the act. Books are not required to be spicy there are lots of books that are not and are amazing but when you make it a content warning that there is explicit sex, I expect it to burn.
With it being a fantasy alice in wonderland retelling I expect some kind of magic and wonder and whimsy that I associate with both those features and I think they can be achieved within the grimsdark genre. But the only magic and whimsey was alice ending up in this new realm, people not aging, people of this realm having amazing hair colors (nothing traditional like in our realm) like pink and purple and have matching eye colors and later in act three finding out that wonderland is able to have sway or magic over its lands. I just feel like there could have been more. That is also my feelings when it comes to the 3 of the 4 main characters is that they could have just been more. You have March a powerful sword woman with a way of standing out by her hair and manner of dress but yet I forgot about her half the time as there was nothing remarkable about her or what she did in the book and any interactions or scenes with her were brief. Then there is Johnathan who is inspired by the mad hatter who in my opinion was just felt like there was not depth and was bland and when you have the mad hatter as inspiration, I feel like you could just do more. I just felt like both of these two were one noted with Johnathan being a little more simply because he had more involvement in the story line. Then the Mary Ann who is the Alice in this story was dull and at times unlikable especially we find out she is having an affair with a married man which is why she ran off that night as she was discovered by her mother and that's what started her journey into wonderland and that she is so thrown off by her situation with being in this new realm and what she sees going on "unaliving" that I feel like she spends most of it in a state of shock or just existing within the storyline.
Now Cheshire on the other hand was a complex character who I feel perfectly embodies what this book was trying to achieve with a grimsdark, fantasy, Alice in wonderland who saved the book for me, and I just wish all the characters were like him, but they didn't seem to come alive until the 3rd act.
Now all reading is subjective and maybe I am not the target audience for this book, but with this being a series and ending how it does with everything picking up and starting to get interesting I would think the storyline in the next book would start off there and be able to carry that momentum and be a really interesting read. However, for me for this book I can only give it a 3.
I first want to say this was the author's debut novel and that is a wonderful achievement as writing and publishing a book and putting yourself out there like that is very admirable and as I understand it, he also designed that beautiful cover. Now I want to say this was going to be a 2 for me but what got me to a 3 was the third act and the Cheshire character. I think the main issue is how this book was marketed. This was marketed as a grimsdark, spicy, polygamous, fantasy, alice in wonderland retelling. I am not super familiar with grimsdark but from what I have researched this book meets that definition. But everywhere else it just fell short for me.
For example, the author lists the content warnings as sexual content with a polygamous couple, so I went in expecting it to be spicy. However, I would barely give it a 2 on the spice. there are sexual encounters, but they are brief and most written using broad flowery descriptive words to get around actually describing the act. Books are not required to be spicy there are lots of books that are not and are amazing but when you make it a content warning that there is explicit sex, I expect it to burn.
With it being a fantasy alice in wonderland retelling I expect some kind of magic and wonder and whimsy that I associate with both those features and I think they can be achieved within the grimsdark genre. But the only magic and whimsey was alice ending up in this new realm, people not aging, people of this realm having amazing hair colors (nothing traditional like in our realm) like pink and purple and have matching eye colors and later in act three finding out that wonderland is able to have sway or magic over its lands. I just feel like there could have been more. That is also my feelings when it comes to the 3 of the 4 main characters is that they could have just been more. You have March a powerful sword woman with a way of standing out by her hair and manner of dress but yet I forgot about her half the time as there was nothing remarkable about her or what she did in the book and any interactions or scenes with her were brief. Then there is Johnathan who is inspired by the mad hatter who in my opinion was just felt like there was not depth and was bland and when you have the mad hatter as inspiration, I feel like you could just do more. I just felt like both of these two were one noted with Johnathan being a little more simply because he had more involvement in the story line. Then the Mary Ann who is the Alice in this story was dull and at times unlikable especially we find out she is having an affair with a married man which is why she ran off that night as she was discovered by her mother and that's what started her journey into wonderland and that she is so thrown off by her situation with being in this new realm and what she sees going on "unaliving" that I feel like she spends most of it in a state of shock or just existing within the storyline.
Now Cheshire on the other hand was a complex character who I feel perfectly embodies what this book was trying to achieve with a grimsdark, fantasy, Alice in wonderland who saved the book for me, and I just wish all the characters were like him, but they didn't seem to come alive until the 3rd act.
Now all reading is subjective and maybe I am not the target audience for this book, but with this being a series and ending how it does with everything picking up and starting to get interesting I would think the storyline in the next book would start off there and be able to carry that momentum and be a really interesting read. However, for me for this book I can only give it a 3.
June 20, 2023
This was a really fun read. I absolutely loved the writing and atmosphere. I think it’s really successful as a retelling of Alice in Wonderland. I was especially impressed with the way the epilogue tied back to the prologue. When I first read the prologue, naturally I had no idea what was going on and then had completely forgotten about it as I read the story, then when I got to the epilogue and it repeated the line about pulling the cords to make the water stop and the water going through the wooden slats, it brought me back to the prologue. I went back and reread it now knowing who the characters were and it made me more excited to read the next book.
I did have a major issue with the way the female characters were written, especially March. She only existed to be a male fantasy. She will be in scenes with Jonathon and Cheshire and just say nothing the entire time. She never adds anything of value to the conversation. I have no idea who she is as a person. She essentially doesn’t exist until Jonathon is ready to have sex with her or there’s a fight.
Jonathon agrees to go to the capital with Mary Anne without even consulting her, even though she clearly doesn’t want them to go.
I wish we had gotten scenes of her alone with Mary Anne or Cheshire. We could have gotten some tension with Mary Anne(I’m hoping that if Mary Anne joins their trio, she will also be with March and Cheshire and not just Jonathon), or her and Cheshire could have had a heart to heart about wanting Mary Anne gone or how much they care for Jonathon, but we get nothing.
Jonathon and Cheshire also never talk about what they like about her. Cheshire only thinks of her when he’s thinking of her and Jonathon as a pair.
The only real personality trait we see is that she seems to be a little bit jealous when Jonathon is with Mary Anne, but then when Mary Anne mentions that she had an affair with a married man, March calls her interesting. I would think that if she was worried Mary Anne was interested in Jonathon, she wouldn’t be very happy to hear that Mary Anne has a history of not respecting other peoples relationships.
I did have a major issue with the way the female characters were written, especially March. She only existed to be a male fantasy. She will be in scenes with Jonathon and Cheshire and just say nothing the entire time. She never adds anything of value to the conversation. I have no idea who she is as a person. She essentially doesn’t exist until Jonathon is ready to have sex with her or there’s a fight.
Jonathon agrees to go to the capital with Mary Anne without even consulting her, even though she clearly doesn’t want them to go.
I wish we had gotten scenes of her alone with Mary Anne or Cheshire. We could have gotten some tension with Mary Anne(I’m hoping that if Mary Anne joins their trio, she will also be with March and Cheshire and not just Jonathon), or her and Cheshire could have had a heart to heart about wanting Mary Anne gone or how much they care for Jonathon, but we get nothing.
Jonathon and Cheshire also never talk about what they like about her. Cheshire only thinks of her when he’s thinking of her and Jonathon as a pair.
The only real personality trait we see is that she seems to be a little bit jealous when Jonathon is with Mary Anne, but then when Mary Anne mentions that she had an affair with a married man, March calls her interesting. I would think that if she was worried Mary Anne was interested in Jonathon, she wouldn’t be very happy to hear that Mary Anne has a history of not respecting other peoples relationships.
October 12, 2023
Mad World: Lost Souls is a dark fantasy romance. There is lots of spice in this book and a whole lot of adventure. This book is told from multiple points of view, and it is about a group of people who go on an unexpected journey in a place called Wonderland. There are many battles in this book, and though there are no dragons, fae, or other superhuman creatures, it is quite magical.
Cheshire is my absolute favorite character in this book. He is one of the MMC's and he is the definition of a bad boy. He is intriguing, passionate, and dangerous. Cheshire will do anything to protect the people he loves. He is also running from something and running towards something else.
Mary Anne is one of the FMC's. She is lost in a world she doesn't know, surrounded by people who want to harm her. She is on a journey for answers and a way home. Mary Anne finds herself on a wild adventure to find her way home.
Jonathan is another MMC and he is kind, noble, and caring. He is drawn into this journey. He is the glue that holds this group together and is willing to do things against his own beliefs in order to help others. Jonathan has a way with words and changing the narrative of people's thoughts.
March is another FMC and she is a fierce, passionate, protective force. She will go anywhere with Jonathan, even if she does not agree with his decisions. March is beautiful, smart, and great with weapons.
The plot in this book had many twists. It kept me on my toes the whole time. The world-building is very good. Each scenario is easy to imagine. The characters are unique, and each has their own interesting personalities. This book is fast-paced, exhilarating, and imaginative. Though the main characters don't always get along, they make an interesting family. There is also a detailed map at the beginning of the book that is really well done. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and see what else Wonderland has in store.
Cheshire is my absolute favorite character in this book. He is one of the MMC's and he is the definition of a bad boy. He is intriguing, passionate, and dangerous. Cheshire will do anything to protect the people he loves. He is also running from something and running towards something else.
Mary Anne is one of the FMC's. She is lost in a world she doesn't know, surrounded by people who want to harm her. She is on a journey for answers and a way home. Mary Anne finds herself on a wild adventure to find her way home.
Jonathan is another MMC and he is kind, noble, and caring. He is drawn into this journey. He is the glue that holds this group together and is willing to do things against his own beliefs in order to help others. Jonathan has a way with words and changing the narrative of people's thoughts.
March is another FMC and she is a fierce, passionate, protective force. She will go anywhere with Jonathan, even if she does not agree with his decisions. March is beautiful, smart, and great with weapons.
The plot in this book had many twists. It kept me on my toes the whole time. The world-building is very good. Each scenario is easy to imagine. The characters are unique, and each has their own interesting personalities. This book is fast-paced, exhilarating, and imaginative. Though the main characters don't always get along, they make an interesting family. There is also a detailed map at the beginning of the book that is really well done. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and see what else Wonderland has in store.
March 3, 2022
I just finished Bernard’s debut novel and had to get on the plane’s wifi to crow about what an offing brilliant story it is! This book has gone into my top 5 favorites of all time (and just for reference, I generally read no fewer than 70 books per year). I cannot wait for the next installment, which is slated for later this year (2022).
Even though I was super busy over the last three days, I flew through this book like the Ace moves through the forest! Bernard takes Caroll’s Wonderland and reimagines it as a darker, grittier place. The characters we know are presented as multidimensional beings, each with their own personalities, motivations, and histories.
Billed as “an adult fantasy,” there are definitely moments where the passion heats up. The intimate scenes are hot without being salacious (though I don’t mind a little salaciousness in my sex scenes), and as a gay man I was pleasantly surprised that my judging-the-book-by-its-cover supposition of relationships was not inaccurate.
My only critique is that all of the characters, and especially all of the main characters, are white. While I appreciate the representation of strong female characters and LGBTQ representation, I’m hopeful that subsequent books will include strong, BIPOC main character representation as well.
This was a captivating read that I couldn’t put down! I kept reading to find out what happens next and started to feel a bit sad as I noticed the remaining page count getting smaller and smaller. The action scenes are exciting and move quickly, the moments of tension were stressful, and the moments of intimacy made me glad that I was on an evening flight with the lights off. I highly recommend this book!
Even though I was super busy over the last three days, I flew through this book like the Ace moves through the forest! Bernard takes Caroll’s Wonderland and reimagines it as a darker, grittier place. The characters we know are presented as multidimensional beings, each with their own personalities, motivations, and histories.
Billed as “an adult fantasy,” there are definitely moments where the passion heats up. The intimate scenes are hot without being salacious (though I don’t mind a little salaciousness in my sex scenes), and as a gay man I was pleasantly surprised that my judging-the-book-by-its-cover supposition of relationships was not inaccurate.
My only critique is that all of the characters, and especially all of the main characters, are white. While I appreciate the representation of strong female characters and LGBTQ representation, I’m hopeful that subsequent books will include strong, BIPOC main character representation as well.
This was a captivating read that I couldn’t put down! I kept reading to find out what happens next and started to feel a bit sad as I noticed the remaining page count getting smaller and smaller. The action scenes are exciting and move quickly, the moments of tension were stressful, and the moments of intimacy made me glad that I was on an evening flight with the lights off. I highly recommend this book!
January 25, 2024
Rating: 4.5/5
What a beautifully intriguing read!! This book is grim, gruesome, and dark while simultaneously being cozy and whimsical as FUCK.
Mad World: Lost Souls is an introduction to the Wonderland Saga, an Alice in Wonderland inspired story - not a retelling, but rather a look into what's happening in this strange world far before Alice ever arrives. A refreshingly unique take on fantasy (that doesn't even include fae, dragons, or vampires) All of our characters are complex, unapologetically themselves, and just a little bit damaged, which honestly makes them just that much better to read about and connect with - I mean, aren't we all just a little bit damaged?
Brandon's writing style is wonderfully descriptive and paints the most intricate pictures for the reader (I think this book would be great for our friends with aphantasia!) It's been a long time since I've been able to visualize characters, settings, and scenes as well as I was able to while reading this book.
Book 1 leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger, so you will be eager to jump into book 2 to find out where our friends are headed next!
You will probably love this book if you enjoy:
- Vividly painted character and world descriptions
- Grim & whimsical vibes
- MMF Romance
What a beautifully intriguing read!! This book is grim, gruesome, and dark while simultaneously being cozy and whimsical as FUCK.
Mad World: Lost Souls is an introduction to the Wonderland Saga, an Alice in Wonderland inspired story - not a retelling, but rather a look into what's happening in this strange world far before Alice ever arrives. A refreshingly unique take on fantasy (that doesn't even include fae, dragons, or vampires) All of our characters are complex, unapologetically themselves, and just a little bit damaged, which honestly makes them just that much better to read about and connect with - I mean, aren't we all just a little bit damaged?
Brandon's writing style is wonderfully descriptive and paints the most intricate pictures for the reader (I think this book would be great for our friends with aphantasia!) It's been a long time since I've been able to visualize characters, settings, and scenes as well as I was able to while reading this book.
Book 1 leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger, so you will be eager to jump into book 2 to find out where our friends are headed next!
You will probably love this book if you enjoy:
- Vividly painted character and world descriptions
- Grim & whimsical vibes
- MMF Romance
June 13, 2022
As a child who grew up {arguably} at the height of Disney storytelling, I can tell you that I’m a sucker for a reimagined plot line. And an even bigger sucker for an adult version of the stories I grew up with. Mad World - Bernard’s debut album - is nothing short of an edgy, dark, and twisted retelling of the classic story we all know and love.
The characters were brought to life by relatable human flaws and characteristics, battling OCD, LGBTQ+ stereotypes, imposter syndrome, and moral ambiguity…to name a few. I was left wanting to know more about them, sit and chat with them, and hear their stories (hoping we get some more background in the upcoming second book).
I will say, as a (mostly) suspense or historical fiction reader - fantasy is not a genre I dive into often. I was lying in wait for some major twist or turn to happen and felt like I only got a glimpse here and there. Which is why I gave this novel three stars. While the writing was very descriptive and painted a wonderful visual, I’m hoping book two will be ever darker, and even more gruesome, even more twisted.
September 4, 2024
First and foremost.
March is a complete bad@$$ and I adore her. Taking a beautiful character and making her so fierce CHECK.
Jonathon is the character you love to love. Gentle. Protector. Lover.
Cheshire is the wanderer. Adventurous fighter. Fights for himself and those he loves; Jonathon and March. He would give anything to protect them.
Mary Anne is the character that brings the bomb in the middle of their happiness. She throws everything off and disrupts their life. Until the end when you figure out why.
This book is jam packed with fight’s adventure and takes a twist inspired by Alice in Wonderland. It is not a retelling more of a version you would want that is a bit darker, definitely spicier and full of fantasy and adventure!
This is book one out of 10, with 3 available NOW.
I definitely recommend this book if any of these are your vibes!
Fantasy
Adventure
LGBTQ
Mild Spice (for book one, it progresses)
Grim take on fairytales!
March is a complete bad@$$ and I adore her. Taking a beautiful character and making her so fierce CHECK.
Jonathon is the character you love to love. Gentle. Protector. Lover.
Cheshire is the wanderer. Adventurous fighter. Fights for himself and those he loves; Jonathon and March. He would give anything to protect them.
Mary Anne is the character that brings the bomb in the middle of their happiness. She throws everything off and disrupts their life. Until the end when you figure out why.
This book is jam packed with fight’s adventure and takes a twist inspired by Alice in Wonderland. It is not a retelling more of a version you would want that is a bit darker, definitely spicier and full of fantasy and adventure!
This is book one out of 10, with 3 available NOW.
I definitely recommend this book if any of these are your vibes!
Fantasy
Adventure
LGBTQ
Mild Spice (for book one, it progresses)
Grim take on fairytales!
October 12, 2023
This was an interesting spicy retelling of Alice in Wonderland. However, there is something about being someone’s mistress, so there’s that. I just thought I’d mention it because I know it’s a trigger for many people. Alice in Wonderland has never been a story I gravitated to as a child and it still isn’t. No matter which way it’s written. I mean for goodness sake Johnny Depp was in the movie and I couldn’t get into it! This is just to say that this was well written but it wasn’t for me, but it could be for someone else. 🤷🏻♀️
Disclaimer: I received this book free to read but my opinions are mine.
Disclaimer: I received this book free to read but my opinions are mine.
November 4, 2025
Mad World: Lost Souls by Brandon T. Bernard absolutely blew me away! The world-building is phenomenal rich, immersive, and so vividly written that I felt completely transported. Every twist and dark corner of this story kept me hooked from start to finish.
Cheshire and Jonathan are easily my favorite characters. They’re complex, intriguing, and full of depth their chemistry and personal arcs pulled me in and never let go. Bernard has created a universe that feels both haunting and beautiful, and I’m already itching to see where the story goes next.
Highly recommend to anyone who loves dark fantasy, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters. This book is an emotional, atmospheric ride you won’t want to miss!
Cheshire and Jonathan are easily my favorite characters. They’re complex, intriguing, and full of depth their chemistry and personal arcs pulled me in and never let go. Bernard has created a universe that feels both haunting and beautiful, and I’m already itching to see where the story goes next.
Highly recommend to anyone who loves dark fantasy, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters. This book is an emotional, atmospheric ride you won’t want to miss!
October 17, 2024
Fantastic debut novel and an excellent beginning to a series. The characters were multi dimensional and each had a unique distinct voice, you could just feel the history with Cheshire, Jonathan and March.
The story ended on a perfect cliffhanger to lead into the next book.
FYI: there is spice, I give it 🌶️🌶️ out of 5 in spiciness.
My main question is about how time works in Wonderland. Does everyone in wonderland have immortality? Only a few are long living? I wanted a little more explanation aside from “it works differently”
Overall it was an entertaining read
The story ended on a perfect cliffhanger to lead into the next book.
FYI: there is spice, I give it 🌶️🌶️ out of 5 in spiciness.
My main question is about how time works in Wonderland. Does everyone in wonderland have immortality? Only a few are long living? I wanted a little more explanation aside from “it works differently”
Overall it was an entertaining read
November 1, 2023
This is such a unique Wonderland retelling. I have not read any that focused on how Wonderland came to be and what it was prior to Alice even showing up so I enjoyed seeing the world explained.
Cheshire is by far my favorite character. I feel he is the most dynamic and could see his story develop.
The world building and description is fabulous and had me immersed in Wonderland.
Seeing where the story ended I am beyond excited to start book two!
Cheshire is by far my favorite character. I feel he is the most dynamic and could see his story develop.
The world building and description is fabulous and had me immersed in Wonderland.
Seeing where the story ended I am beyond excited to start book two!
August 7, 2024
This was whimsical, fun, sexy, and entirely captivating. I LOVED it from the early pages all the way through to the end.
This is one of those books that you'll be glad is a series - because book 2 was quite literally already in my cart before I hit the 50% mark. Highly recommend!
Also - the poly representation is perfection.
This is one of those books that you'll be glad is a series - because book 2 was quite literally already in my cart before I hit the 50% mark. Highly recommend!
Also - the poly representation is perfection.
July 2, 2025
If you loved Alice in Wonderland, and you’re looking for some well-written romance that never gets too heavy-handed, then this is for you.
The author brings a new twist into an old classic, but keeps enough of the traditional elements to immerse you back into wonderland.
While this isn’t my topical read, it was nonetheless a great book.
The author brings a new twist into an old classic, but keeps enough of the traditional elements to immerse you back into wonderland.
While this isn’t my topical read, it was nonetheless a great book.
September 12, 2023
What a wild ride
Mad World takes you on a tour of a Wonderland you didn't grow up. Filled with intrigue and sex, kindness and violence, Mad World has it all. Enjoy the ride and hold on tight.
Mad World takes you on a tour of a Wonderland you didn't grow up. Filled with intrigue and sex, kindness and violence, Mad World has it all. Enjoy the ride and hold on tight.
July 15, 2025
Wonderland before Alice was much more fun. Excellent characters, clever story, beautiful details and world building, and fun trio spice. Looking forward to book two. These characters’ banter and heart will live rent free in my head.
Read
May 23, 2025BK-17
1🌶️ - Bi-Thruple but fade to black
POV: 3rd Person, 3 POV’s
Adult
Spicy chapters: 13, 16, 24, 29,
1🌶️ - Bi-Thruple but fade to black
POV: 3rd Person, 3 POV’s
Adult
Spicy chapters: 13, 16, 24, 29,
May 11, 2024
I absolutely enjoyed this book and this was a great introduction to a series. The book follows a girl named Mary Anne who ends up in Wonderland a strange place with remarkable people. Johnathan the leader, March and Cheshire his lovers and Dormy team up to help Mary Ann head off to find the Duchess who will in turn help her find her way home. But when she meets up with her she's finds out the only way home is to become something she may not be ready to become. Along the way way there are others out to stop the them and some even are after Mary Anne.
The book has a touch of spice which was written very well. I enjoyed the dynamics between Johnathan, Cheshire and March. They have a steamy relationship. Mary Anne appears to have an eye for Johnathan so I wonder how this will continue in the series. Cheshire is a fun character and a bit mysterious and mischievious. March is a complete badA** and I love her.
This is not a retelling rather than a retelling. It is what Wicked is to the Wizard of Oz. I enjoyed every minute of the ebook and am invested in the characters of Wonderland and their Saga. The nods to the original kept me in nostalgia and the character dialog at times took me back to wonderland and Lewis Carroll himself.
The book has a touch of spice which was written very well. I enjoyed the dynamics between Johnathan, Cheshire and March. They have a steamy relationship. Mary Anne appears to have an eye for Johnathan so I wonder how this will continue in the series. Cheshire is a fun character and a bit mysterious and mischievious. March is a complete badA** and I love her.
This is not a retelling rather than a retelling. It is what Wicked is to the Wizard of Oz. I enjoyed every minute of the ebook and am invested in the characters of Wonderland and their Saga. The nods to the original kept me in nostalgia and the character dialog at times took me back to wonderland and Lewis Carroll himself.
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