Splintered

Alyssa Gardner has been plagued by the same family curse that landed her mother in a mental institution—she can hear the whispers of bugs and flowers. Descended from Alice Liddell, the real-life inspiration for Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Alyssa discovers that Wonderland is real and that her ancestor's visit there has left a dark legacy. To save her family and her own sanity, Alyssa must descend into a twisted, dangerous Wonderland to undo the damage Alice caused and break the curse once and for all. This dark, seductive reimagining of Alice in Wonderland transforms Carroll's whimsical world into a gothic fantasy filled with danger, intrigue, and a complex love triangle. Howard weaves together themes of identity, madness, family legacy, and self-discovery while exploring the blurred line between sanity and insanity. The novel appeals to readers who enjoy dark fairy tale retellings, lush atmospheric settings, and strong protagonists who must navigate both the mundane challenges of high school and the surreal dangers of a Wonderland that's far more sinister than the original. With its blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, Splintered offers a fresh and darkly enchanting take on a beloved classic.