Alex in Wonderland

AudioBook Review Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 3.5 I have to admit to a bit of a mixed impression from this one: not a love/hate relationship, but a bit of intriguing but something is missing. However, the story is fun, fast paced (occasionally too fast) and carries a solid undercurrent of sexual tension that dances around the dominant male, fueled by his dirty talking and control issues that get tossed into tumult with one waitress in a bunny suit. Oh it was fun and fast paced, lighthearted with plenty of action to move the story forward, but there was a lack of backstory and actual emotional moments that allowed a deeper connection for me to the characters – on the plus side: that did leave plenty of room for growth and development in further installments, but in this action and moving to the next challenge seemed to be the most important element. Matt Hadder is running the family firm, Wonderland, Inc., inherited from his family. Despite the fact that Wonderland is THE company to plan and produce your event: the reputation is one that borders on mafia-like, with the rather ruthless and driven, making him essential and unquestioned. He’s not one for connections, and love isn’t in his vocabulary. He’s got control issues that enter the room before he does – and that makes him invaluable to those who use his company’s services. Alex Little is a failed waitress with a desperate need for cash: but she’s got standards. Well, let’s just say that an offer to entertain at a child’s birthday party in a pink bunny suit is just something she can’t pass up – and of course, Max spots her and offers her a job….after she maybe, perhaps, possibly hears something she shouldn’t. He can’t afford for her to share what she heard, but he also can’t directly ask….. These two have a lovely interplay that played solidly to the age difference (Matt is 15 years her senior) and into his control issues. Alex isn’t someone who instantly falls for his game –but she constantly keeps popping up in his way: acquiescent one moment, defiant the next, always striking that chord that keeps him guessing and coming back. Ultimately sweet even with the thread of danger and a bit of snark, the story carries a light, escape and just enjoy the ride story that leaves plenty of questions and secondary characters to wonder on for further stories. Narration for this title is provided by Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden, and the two worked well in the dual point of view story: each taking on a feel for the characters that is clearly presented in their descriptions. Both held tones that felt both age-appropriate and situationally appropriate to the events and characters, and the interplay between the two feels natural, as if you could overhear them in a restaurant. Secondary characters are presented with distinct voices that vary in tone and delivery speed, and the performance of the story helped to hold interest. It was a fun light title that was perfect for an afternoon escape, and I’m intrigued to see where the series will go. I received an audiobook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

WOW! This is a total turnabout from what this duo has written in the past. If you are after a rom-com like they have written before, then this may not be the book for you. That being said... I thoroughly loved this book. I was drawn into the sometimes not so pleasant world of Wonderland Inc. and enjoyed every minute of it. Matt Hadder is sometimes a very bad man, from some peoples point of view. Alex was dressed as a rabbit for a child's party when she meets Matt for the first time. After that, everything just flows and progresses. The relationship that develops between Matt and Alex is passionate and very solid. Alex in Wonderland is a stupendous dark romance. I'm eager to see what Max & Monroe come up with for their next twisted fairytale.