I enjoy many of Maguires tales, but this one was not up to par. Disjointed, poor character development, and too many threads with no real substance. What I enjoyed most about his other books (the Oz stories, Ugly Stepsister) was the alternative view of a familiar setting. This had none of that creativity.

This was such a disappointment after his other books.

**I would like to start off by saying that I received After Alice by Gregory Maguire for free via Shelf Awareness in exchange for a review. Although I am super grateful and excited for any opportunity at receiving a book for free, I am also very strict with being honest. That being said, giveaways do not impact my reviews.**

Actual Rating: 3.5/5

Hmmm, not really sure why this book has such a low overall rating as I rather enjoyed it.. and for this reason I am glad I don't listen to what others think. I happily accept others opinions and do consider them beforehand and while reading but in this case, I happen to disagree with the majority.

It definitely came across as a "wordy" type of book when I first started it and that almost scared me away and was not at all what I was expecting out if it, but the further in to the story I got, the less that seemed to carry on which made for a much more enjoyable experience.

I'm reviewing this as a person who knows Alice in Wonderland - but like the Disney movie.. so I can't compare this book to anything that hardcore Alice fans might, take that as you will.

I do believe if you can get past the first few chapters and really let yourself fall into this book, it's pretty fun and reminiscent.

PLUS THE COVER/BOOK JACKET IS SOOO BOOTYFUL <3

A book focusing on the people surrounding Alice outside of Wonderland. A very interesting take on the older story. I quite liked it, as I like most of Gregory Maguire's work. Kind of set itself up for a sequel if the author wanted or it could end here. It is unusual that a book could be satisfactory as both a stand alone novel and a sequel set up, but the author made it work.