Tiffany Roberts' Escaping Wonderland is a mesmerizing journey that reimagines the classic tale of Alice in Wonderland with a modern, sci-fi twist. This novel is a compelling blend of fantasy, romance, and psychological intrigue, offering readers a fresh perspective on a familiar story. The book's blurb sets the stage for an adventure that is both thrilling and unsettling, promising a narrative that is as much about escape as it is about self-discovery.

At the heart of the story is Alice, a protagonist who is both relatable and intriguing. Wrongfully committed to an asylum, Alice finds herself trapped in a virtual world known as Wonderland. This setting is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, with its titanic trees and towering flowers creating a vivid and immersive environment. The author skillfully uses this setting to explore themes of reality versus illusion, sanity versus madness, and freedom versus confinement.

Alice's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience. Her awareness that Wonderland is a virtual construct adds a layer of complexity to her character. She is not merely a passive participant in her story; she is actively seeking a way out, driven by the memory of a life she once knew. This determination makes her a compelling protagonist, one that readers can root for as she navigates the chaos of Wonderland.

The character of Shadow is equally fascinating. Described as a tall, mysterious being with glowing eyes and a haunting grin, Shadow is both Alice's guide and her potential downfall. His seductive and unhinged nature adds an element of danger to the narrative, keeping readers on edge. The chemistry between Alice and Shadow is palpable, and their relationship is central to the story's emotional depth. Shadow's desire for Alice is genuine, and their growing feelings for each other provide a poignant counterpoint to the madness surrounding them.

Roberts' writing is both evocative and engaging. Her descriptions of Wonderland are lush and detailed, painting a picture of a world that is as beautiful as it is terrifying. The author's ability to create a sense of unease and suspense is commendable, making the reader question what is real and what is illusion. This tension is maintained throughout the novel, driving the narrative forward and keeping readers invested in Alice's fate.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Escaping Wonderland is its exploration of mental health. By setting the story in a virtual world operated inside an asylum, Roberts invites readers to consider the nature of reality and the impact of mental illness. The asylum setting is a powerful metaphor for the constraints placed on individuals by society and the struggle to break free from those constraints. This theme is handled with sensitivity and insight, adding depth to the narrative.

In comparison to other reimaginings of Alice in Wonderland, such as Marissa Meyer's Heartless or Gregory Maguire's After Alice, Roberts' novel stands out for its unique blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements. While Meyer and Maguire focus more on the fantastical and historical aspects of the story, Roberts brings a modern twist that feels both innovative and relevant. Her use of a virtual world as a setting allows for a fresh exploration of the themes inherent in the original tale, making Escaping Wonderland a standout addition to the genre.

Overall, Escaping Wonderland is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of fantasy, romance, and psychological thrillers. Tiffany Roberts has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters and a richly imagined world. The novel's exploration of reality, identity, and freedom is both timely and timeless, offering readers a story that resonates on multiple levels.

For those interested in a novel that challenges perceptions and offers a fresh take on a classic tale, Escaping Wonderland is a must-read. Its blend of romance, suspense, and fantasy makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to escape into a world that is as enchanting as it is unsettling.