Title: Unhinged
Author: A.G. Howard
First published January 7, 2014
387 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781613125342 (ISBN10: 1613125348)
Rating: 4.2
Overview
In the world of Alyssa Gardner, Wonderland isn’t just a storybook tale, it’s a dangerous reality. After escaping the clutches of the twisted Queen Red and the enigmatic Morpheus, Alyssa is determined to lead a normal life.
But as she approaches graduation and the opportunity to attend her dream art school in London, Wonderland starts to seep into her reality once again. With Morpheus back in her life and the threat of Queen Red looming, Alyssa must navigate the treacherous waters of her own mind to keep her loved ones safe.
But as Wonderland becomes more and more real, Alyssa is forced to choose between the safety of the human world and the deadly battle that awaits her in Wonderland. Will she risk everything to protect those she loves or will she succumb to the madness of Wonderland?
Editoral Review
A.G. Howard’s Unhinged is a thrilling sequel to her debut novel, Splintered. Published on January 7, 2014, this young adult novel is a beautiful blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure.
Howard’s style and themes are unique and captivating, making Unhinged a must-read for all fans of the genre.
Unhinged picks up where Splintered leaves off, following the story of Alyssa Gardner, a descendant of Alice Liddell, the inspiration behind Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. After defeating the Red Queen and restoring order to Wonderland, Alyssa returns to the human world to start a new life with her boyfriend, Jeb.
However, the peace is short-lived as Morpheus, the enigmatic and charismatic moth fairy, appears in her life again, bringing back memories and secrets from the past.
The plot of Unhinged is full of surprises and twists, as Alyssa navigates the challenges of being a part of two different worlds. Howard’s writing is exquisite, vividly describing the intricate details of both Wonderland and the human world.
The characters are well-developed, with Alyssa’s growth and self-discovery at the heart of the story. The conflicts that arise, both internal and external, are relatable and engaging, making the reader invested in Alyssa’s journey.
Although Unhinged is a work of fiction, there are historical and cultural references in the novel that add to its significance. The novel explores themes of identity, family, love, and sacrifice, making it relevant to current events and issues.
Howard’s portrayal of mental illness and its effects on families is particularly poignant and well-done.
The strengths of Unhinged lie in its beautiful writing, unique characters, and imaginative world-building. However, the story’s pacing can be slow at times, and some plot points feel predictable.
Nevertheless, Howard’s ability to create a fantastical world that feels both familiar and new is impressive, and the depth of emotion in the novel is commendable.
In comparison to other works in the genre, Unhinged stands out for its originality and creativity. Howard’s dedication to crafting a magical and complex world is evident, and her love for the Alice in Wonderland story is apparent in her writing.
Fans of the first book in the series will not be disappointed by the sequel, and new readers will be drawn in by the beautiful prose and unforgettable characters.
Overall, Unhinged is a stunning work of young adult fiction that will transport readers to a world full of magic, wonder, and danger. Howard’s talent for storytelling and her passion for the source material make this novel a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy and adventure.
This book is highly recommended for older teens and young adults, and it deserves a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
