A review by cherryvillegirl
The Wonderland Trials by Sara Ella

adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 

When Sara Ella announced that she was publishing an Alice in Wonderland dystopian retelling, I about screamed in excitement! I was even more excited when I had the opportunity to read it! 

Likes: 

-How expertly the Alice in Wonderland elements were incorporated into the story. Sara Ella wove the themes and elements from AiW in such a seamless way, and it was thrilling to spot various pieces from the original text. 

-The dystopian world. It was the right amount of creepy, whimsical, and confusing, just like an Alice retelling should be. I really loved the blending of the two Realities. 

-The trials. They were so cool, intense, and fast-paced! They really served to up the stakes and keep me on the edge of my seat. 

Dislikes: 

-The relationship between Alice and Chess. While I was rooting for them the entire time, I wanted to get to know their backstory a little more so their relationship would have a little more foundation. On the other hand, we are getting another book in which it might be possible to explore their backstory a little more, which I’m looking forward to. 

Overall, I really enjoyed reading The Wonderland Trials, and I can’t wait for book 2! 

*I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review