Wonderland Just Got a Whole Lot Darker

Ali’s challenges multiply as she tries to escape from Wonderland and rescue her father. Who can she trust in this world of exotic, vulnerable creatures? How can she enlist their help without putting them at risk from the brutality of the Jabberwocky and the agents of the White Rose?

—

‘Someone came through with me,’ said Ali. ‘I think she’s dying.’ ‘Is that so?’ The Hatter stared at the water for a moment, then stepped up onto the bank. ‘How badly is she dying?’

‘How badly? She’s in a lot of pain. Is that what you mean?’

‘No. A bad death can be painful, certainly, but dying is difficult to manage over here. Her body will try to repair itself, but what form that mending takes will depend on her.’

‘What form?’ Ali grabbed his elbow. ‘Are you saying that damage triggers the transformations? You get injured and your body starts adapting to save you?’

‘Exactly so.’ The Hatter sat to pull his boots on. ‘Our bodies will do everything in their power to mend. Don’t press me for details. None of our palace scholars can agree on the subject, except for one thing – do NOT get badly injured.’