What do you think?
Rate this book
Wonderland #0.5
The White Rabbit
Lyriope doesn’t have a family. At least, not a family that recognizes her. She’s a secret bastard child of the infamous Bryant Morelli. And she wants a single experience of that glamorous lie. One evening when she can pretend to belong. A single gala where she can sneak inside.
There are wealthy men. Powerful men. Dangerous men.
No one is more dangerous than Nick Hudson.
He lures her toward a decadent, illicit underworld.
THE WHITE RABBIT is a short prologue novella to the Wonderland trilogy by Alta Hensley. Step through the looking glass into this sensual, breathtaking world.
There are wealthy men. Powerful men. Dangerous men.
No one is more dangerous than Nick Hudson.
He lures her toward a decadent, illicit underworld.
THE WHITE RABBIT is a short prologue novella to the Wonderland trilogy by Alta Hensley. Step through the looking glass into this sensual, breathtaking world.
104 pages, ebook
Published March 29, 2022
44 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
Alta Hensley
117 books2,429 followersAlta Hensley is a NYT & USA Today bestselling author of dark romance where the villain always gets the happily ever after.
Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 11, 2023
•| ⊱✿⊰ |• 5 Stars •| ⊱✿⊰ |•
Perfect!
I've already read it in
, I thought the prequel had more development, but is the same story that is in the anthology.But it's short, I read it quick, and helped me remember what happened and how it ended.
I was captivated by this short story.
This series took too long to be released.
Lyriope is Bryant Morelli's bastard daughter.
She's in trouble with the russian mafia, and don't want to ask help to Lucian or Leo.
Nick is the owner of a decadent club and he trades important information for important people.
He buys safe passage to Lyriope for one night.
In exchange for... Her...
This promises to be hot.
July 26, 2023
Part 0.5
2 😒😒⭐️s
An intriguing prequel yet I didn’t like both mcs. Also, it seemed to have an erotic direction which doesn’t pique my interest nowadays…
2 😒😒⭐️s
An intriguing prequel yet I didn’t like both mcs. Also, it seemed to have an erotic direction which doesn’t pique my interest nowadays…
July 2, 2022
A prequel to the Wonderland series. See my review on King of Spades.
April 3, 2022
2.5⭐️
ugh the writing isn't my cup of tea but i still can't wait for book 1.
ugh the writing isn't my cup of tea but i still can't wait for book 1.
April 11, 2022
Intriguing prequel of some sort
If I have to guess, this book shared the same world as the Morellis and Constantines family saga (you can tell I didn't do any research prior to reading this one).
All in all, I think it sets the scenes for the upcoming book in the series. So far, I like the heroine's gumption and I hope she continues to be this way. I want her to give as hard as she takes. We'll see.
If I have to guess, this book shared the same world as the Morellis and Constantines family saga (you can tell I didn't do any research prior to reading this one).
All in all, I think it sets the scenes for the upcoming book in the series. So far, I like the heroine's gumption and I hope she continues to be this way. I want her to give as hard as she takes. We'll see.
October 19, 2022
It is a prologue but I dind't like the heroine...
April 3, 2022
FALLING DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE
The story is a novella featuring Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey. They will have an encounter at the Morelli Christmas party. He is an invited guest, a well-respected man, and owner of a private club, Wonderland. She is an intruder, always on the outside looking in—a Morelli by blood but never claimed.
“The good, the bad, and the in-between mingle within these walls. Secrets, gossip, and threats blend with the music playing in the background.”
“I’m fascinated with the tales and stories of debauchery that surround Wonderland. And though the Morellis are exclusive, Wonderland is truly restricted as it’s invite only for the few. I want the key. I want the pass to enter. I want a seat at one of his infamous tea parties.”
The story’s plot will have Sasha Morelli sneaking her friend—cousin—into the Morelli Christmas party. They will spend time talking about the various guest that arrive, but Sasha needs to mingle, and Lyriope needs to plan her exit. When people enter, that mean her harm; she will escape to a study where she will have a face-to-face meeting with Nick Hudson.
Nick: You shouldn’t be here. Your life’s at risk as long as you stay.
Lyriope: Excuse me?
Nick: You can run from them, but can’t stay hidden long.
I love the angst, suspense, danger, and sexual passion that oozes between Lyriope and Nick. He is impressed that she has done her homework and holds her part in their tête-à-tête. Lyriope has borrowed from the wrong people, but Nick is giving her a one-night pass—and the price is her.
Nick: You’ve done your research on Wonderland, yes?
Lyriope: Yes
Nick: Then you know Wonderland doesn’t allow innocence, it doesn’t allow goodness, and it sure doesn’t allow virgins through the doors. And you also know that Wonderland only allows people with the dark, the extremely dirty, and the most f***ed-up sexual tastes past its threshold. And you also know, that Wonderland is invite only
Lyriope: Then invite me in.
“There isn’t a part of him that isn’t absolute perfection. He’s raw, he’s edgy, he’s dark, and his madness is everything I’ve ever wanted.”
The novella is a taste of a new series, King of Spades coming Spring 2022 with Lyriope and Nick Hudson. The tale has only just begun—truly Alta Hensley style!
The story is a novella featuring Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey. They will have an encounter at the Morelli Christmas party. He is an invited guest, a well-respected man, and owner of a private club, Wonderland. She is an intruder, always on the outside looking in—a Morelli by blood but never claimed.
“The good, the bad, and the in-between mingle within these walls. Secrets, gossip, and threats blend with the music playing in the background.”
“I’m fascinated with the tales and stories of debauchery that surround Wonderland. And though the Morellis are exclusive, Wonderland is truly restricted as it’s invite only for the few. I want the key. I want the pass to enter. I want a seat at one of his infamous tea parties.”
The story’s plot will have Sasha Morelli sneaking her friend—cousin—into the Morelli Christmas party. They will spend time talking about the various guest that arrive, but Sasha needs to mingle, and Lyriope needs to plan her exit. When people enter, that mean her harm; she will escape to a study where she will have a face-to-face meeting with Nick Hudson.
Nick: You shouldn’t be here. Your life’s at risk as long as you stay.
Lyriope: Excuse me?
Nick: You can run from them, but can’t stay hidden long.
I love the angst, suspense, danger, and sexual passion that oozes between Lyriope and Nick. He is impressed that she has done her homework and holds her part in their tête-à-tête. Lyriope has borrowed from the wrong people, but Nick is giving her a one-night pass—and the price is her.
Nick: You’ve done your research on Wonderland, yes?
Lyriope: Yes
Nick: Then you know Wonderland doesn’t allow innocence, it doesn’t allow goodness, and it sure doesn’t allow virgins through the doors. And you also know that Wonderland only allows people with the dark, the extremely dirty, and the most f***ed-up sexual tastes past its threshold. And you also know, that Wonderland is invite only
Lyriope: Then invite me in.
“There isn’t a part of him that isn’t absolute perfection. He’s raw, he’s edgy, he’s dark, and his madness is everything I’ve ever wanted.”
The novella is a taste of a new series, King of Spades coming Spring 2022 with Lyriope and Nick Hudson. The tale has only just begun—truly Alta Hensley style!
September 1, 2022
Introductory prologue to another series from the Midnight Dynasty collection. Nick and Lyriope's story will be dirty for sure 😂
The writing is too simplistic with excessive rhetorical questions.
The writing is too simplistic with excessive rhetorical questions.
April 5, 2022
The White Rabbit is a prequel to the Wonderland trilogy, and it’s one that certainly had me hooked. I cannot claim to love it because I’m not the biggest fan of these introductory chapters that are used as a prequel story, but it was certainly one that grabbed my interest. There was so much packed into it, enough to ensure I was left eager to dive into the full-length story.
Without a doubt, this was a great introduction for the trilogy. My personal bias simply has me annoyed that it was the introductory chapters of the story only.
Without a doubt, this was a great introduction for the trilogy. My personal bias simply has me annoyed that it was the introductory chapters of the story only.
April 3, 2022
What a start!
This was a delicious start to the next installment in the Midnight Dynasty world. I was pulled in from the first page, and kept entertained throughout, by the mystery and the steamy connection between Lyriope and Nick. I can't wait to see what happens throughout the trilogy.
This was a delicious start to the next installment in the Midnight Dynasty world. I was pulled in from the first page, and kept entertained throughout, by the mystery and the steamy connection between Lyriope and Nick. I can't wait to see what happens throughout the trilogy.
April 9, 2022
Nice introduction to the new Wonderland trilogy. Nick & Lyriope meet at a party and strike a deal that he will protect her for the night. She has the Sidorov's after her for not repaying her debt.
Definitely leaves you wanting more!!!!
Can't wait for more from this world!!!
Definitely leaves you wanting more!!!!
Can't wait for more from this world!!!
April 20, 2022
A catchy prequel
This novella has a lot of promise and I'm surprised that it packs a lot of background in it. There's the air of mystery and lots of sexual tension. A very interesting read and would make you want to read the next book in the series right away.
This novella has a lot of promise and I'm surprised that it packs a lot of background in it. There's the air of mystery and lots of sexual tension. A very interesting read and would make you want to read the next book in the series right away.
April 1, 2022
I was hooked right away this one is a page turner filled with danger and secrets and Nick and Lyriope I can tell are gonna,set the pages on fire. Great start can't wait to read more of these two.
April 4, 2024
Okaaaay, I'm intrigued!
May 15, 2024
La premisa es bastante absurda.
December 4, 2022
Part of the Winter Wonderland series, attached to the Midnight Dynasty Series.
April 1, 2022
Ms. Hensley gives a tantalizing glimpse into Nick and Lyriope’s story.
Lyriope is the unclaimed daughter of Bryant Morelli.
She’s sad and some bitterness soils her soul about it.
But the strength and determination she has even in the face of the ugly and dangerous situation and circumstance she’s in I couldn’t help but admire.
Nick Hudson is a deep player in the underworld.
His name is well known even will being a bit of a recluse.
Nothing or no one gets past the sexy tattooed bad boy.
He knows and hears about everything and everyone.
And Nick has his sights set on Lyriope.
Their attraction and lust for each is is undeniable and so very hot.
Ms. Hensley gives just a taste of the nasty wickedness that is simmering between them.
I’m so excited and can’t wait to read the rest of their story in King of Spades!
Lyriope is the unclaimed daughter of Bryant Morelli.
She’s sad and some bitterness soils her soul about it.
But the strength and determination she has even in the face of the ugly and dangerous situation and circumstance she’s in I couldn’t help but admire.
Nick Hudson is a deep player in the underworld.
His name is well known even will being a bit of a recluse.
Nothing or no one gets past the sexy tattooed bad boy.
He knows and hears about everything and everyone.
And Nick has his sights set on Lyriope.
Their attraction and lust for each is is undeniable and so very hot.
Ms. Hensley gives just a taste of the nasty wickedness that is simmering between them.
I’m so excited and can’t wait to read the rest of their story in King of Spades!
April 7, 2022
'The White Rabbit' is a short novella, a prologue if you will, to Alta Hensley's "Wonderland" Trilogy. Lyriope is the unacknowledged daughter of Bryant Morelli. Her cousin has snuck her into the mansion during a Christmas ball. She's a sad and resentful young woman with daddy issues but I had to admire the strength of her character and determination at putting on a fierce armor in order to face the danger her step-father created and she made worse. Nick Hudson is King of the Underworld, a bit of a recluse, and has deigned to attend the ball. Those that know him, know he holds the power because he holds the information about everything and everyone. There is a bargain struck this night that left me almost as breathless as it did our heroine. The hunt is on with the details coming in 'King of Spades'. I can't wait
October 6, 2024
𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑊𝐻𝐼𝑇𝐸 𝑅𝐴𝐵𝐵𝐼𝑇 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑢𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑎 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑊𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑦 𝑏𝑦 𝐴𝑙𝑡𝑎 𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑙𝑒𝑦.
It's a quick and titillating introduction to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey, aka Morelli. Nick is a monster but something about Lyriope has him softening. She needs help and he's just the man to help her; for a price, of course.
I love dominant, possessive, and controlling men who become soft around the edges as their hearts melt for the right woman. Lyriope is that woman for Nick and she has enough feist in her to be the perfect match for him.
The White Rabbit sets the stage perfectly and I couldn't wait to dive into The Wonderland Triolgy with The King of Spades.
It's a quick and titillating introduction to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey, aka Morelli. Nick is a monster but something about Lyriope has him softening. She needs help and he's just the man to help her; for a price, of course.
I love dominant, possessive, and controlling men who become soft around the edges as their hearts melt for the right woman. Lyriope is that woman for Nick and she has enough feist in her to be the perfect match for him.
The White Rabbit sets the stage perfectly and I couldn't wait to dive into The Wonderland Triolgy with The King of Spades.
April 5, 2022
My Rating: 4 stars!
A prologue novella to the King of Spades, and I highly recommend you read it first. It’s a great introduction to not only the expansion of the Midnight Dynasty world, but to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Morelli- who become intricately wrapped-up in each other’s lives.
This prologue is also a great teaser for readers new to Hensley, as you can see what you expect from her writing.
A steamy fling and an interesting deal that will lead to the beginnings of an Alice in Wonderland-inspired billionaire romance. It's fast-paced, intriguing, and leaves you wanting to see Nick's and Lyriope's next encounter.
A prologue novella to the King of Spades, and I highly recommend you read it first. It’s a great introduction to not only the expansion of the Midnight Dynasty world, but to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Morelli- who become intricately wrapped-up in each other’s lives.
This prologue is also a great teaser for readers new to Hensley, as you can see what you expect from her writing.
A steamy fling and an interesting deal that will lead to the beginnings of an Alice in Wonderland-inspired billionaire romance. It's fast-paced, intriguing, and leaves you wanting to see Nick's and Lyriope's next encounter.
April 5, 2022
Great introduction
We meet Lyriope, Bryant Morelli's secret daughter and the powerful Nick Hudson.
She's crashing a Morelli party, when Nick walks in. There's something about him that draws her in and every other woman at the party.
While she clings to the shadows, she notices when the Russians arrive. She owes them a lot of money. And they're blocking the only exit she's aware of.
As she tries to find a way out she runs into Nick. Who knows exactly who she is and who's are her.
So he makes her an offer.
We meet Lyriope, Bryant Morelli's secret daughter and the powerful Nick Hudson.
She's crashing a Morelli party, when Nick walks in. There's something about him that draws her in and every other woman at the party.
While she clings to the shadows, she notices when the Russians arrive. She owes them a lot of money. And they're blocking the only exit she's aware of.
As she tries to find a way out she runs into Nick. Who knows exactly who she is and who's are her.
So he makes her an offer.
April 4, 2022
The White Rabbit, is the Prologue Novella to the Wonderland Trilogy. It is short but all too consuming. It is the perfect introduction to Lyriope and Nick and their very intense first face to face encounter. It really sets the tone for the intensely dark, deprived, and all around chemistry this series is sure to deliver.
"His name is known in the underbelly of the dark world."
"I want to taste the madness on this man."
"I hate delicate flowers. I like my women with the thorns attached."
"His name is known in the underbelly of the dark world."
"I want to taste the madness on this man."
"I hate delicate flowers. I like my women with the thorns attached."
March 31, 2022
This little novella is going to grab you and throw you right back into this Midnight Dynasty world.
It’s going to wet your appetite for what’s to come in King of Spades, and keep you blushing.
Nick is the best alphahole and Lyriope is exactly who we think she is, or is she? This novella will take you minutes to read and make you long for what comes next!!
It’s going to wet your appetite for what’s to come in King of Spades, and keep you blushing.
Nick is the best alphahole and Lyriope is exactly who we think she is, or is she? This novella will take you minutes to read and make you long for what comes next!!
April 1, 2022
The White Rabbit - A Prologue Novella to King of Spades Dual POV
Nick and Lyriope's story
This little glance into Nick and Lyriope's story made me desperate for more! Lyriope is Bryant Morrelli's secret daughter which has taken a mental toll on her. She's gotten herself into some serious trouble and Nick may be able to help her.... at a cost!!! I am so ready for King of Spades!!!!
Nick and Lyriope's story
This little glance into Nick and Lyriope's story made me desperate for more! Lyriope is Bryant Morrelli's secret daughter which has taken a mental toll on her. She's gotten herself into some serious trouble and Nick may be able to help her.... at a cost!!! I am so ready for King of Spades!!!!
April 3, 2022
The White Rabbit is the perfect little teaser that can be devoured in one sitting and will leave you wanting so much more. This prequel gives you a sneak peek into this dark and twisted world as it introduces you to Lyriope and Nick. It was brief and steamy and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in this series.
April 19, 2022
Definitely an amazing short read! 💛
This is the first few chapters of King of Spades! I loved everything about it. The set up for Lyropie and Nick. The 🌶 was phenomenal and the plot of 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟. I can't wait to read the full novel. All I can say is I'll take Nick Hudson as the Mad Hatter anytime.
This is the first few chapters of King of Spades! I loved everything about it. The set up for Lyropie and Nick. The 🌶 was phenomenal and the plot of 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟. I can't wait to read the full novel. All I can say is I'll take Nick Hudson as the Mad Hatter anytime.
July 21, 2022
𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝑊𝐻𝐼𝑇𝐸 𝑅𝐴𝐵𝐵𝐼𝑇 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑢𝑒 𝑛𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑎 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑊𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑦 𝑏𝑦 𝐴𝑙𝑡𝑎 𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑙𝑒𝑦.
It's a quick and titillating introduction to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey, aka Morelli. Nick is a monster but something about Lyriope has him softening. She needs help and he's just the man to help her; for a price, of course.
I love dominant, possessive, and controlling men who become soft around the edges as their hearts melt for the right woman. Lyriope is that woman for Nick and she has enough feist in her to be the perfect match for him.
The White Rabbit sets the stage perfectly and I couldn't wait to dive into The Wonderland Triolgy with The King of Spades.
𝑆𝑡𝑒𝑝 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑔𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑢𝑎𝑙, 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑.
It's a quick and titillating introduction to Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey, aka Morelli. Nick is a monster but something about Lyriope has him softening. She needs help and he's just the man to help her; for a price, of course.
I love dominant, possessive, and controlling men who become soft around the edges as their hearts melt for the right woman. Lyriope is that woman for Nick and she has enough feist in her to be the perfect match for him.
The White Rabbit sets the stage perfectly and I couldn't wait to dive into The Wonderland Triolgy with The King of Spades.
𝑆𝑡𝑒𝑝 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑔𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑢𝑎𝑙, 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑.
October 1, 2022
5/5 ⭐
3/5 🌶️
Loved this little prequel novella to the Wonderland series. We get to meet Nick and Lyriope and see the sizzling chemistry between them. Nick clearly has a ton of power, both in the town and over Lyriope. I love the little bits of Alice and Wonderland sprinkled in and I can't wait to see how those play out. I'm really excited for this series.
3/5 🌶️
Loved this little prequel novella to the Wonderland series. We get to meet Nick and Lyriope and see the sizzling chemistry between them. Nick clearly has a ton of power, both in the town and over Lyriope. I love the little bits of Alice and Wonderland sprinkled in and I can't wait to see how those play out. I'm really excited for this series.
November 30, 2025
eBook
Fiction / Mafia / Romance / Retelling / Dark / Novella
⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
Storygraph Rainbow Reads 2025: White
This was a bit much for a prequel, even for me. I like to get into a story before all the spice happens. Throw the virgin thing in, and it becomes an ick.
Fiction / Mafia / Romance / Retelling / Dark / Novella
⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
Storygraph Rainbow Reads 2025: White
This was a bit much for a prequel, even for me. I like to get into a story before all the spice happens. Throw the virgin thing in, and it becomes an ick.
April 1, 2022
Short and Steamy
The story starts immediately and she does a good job setting up the backstory. It’s Duo POV, which I always enjoy. Can’t wait to see what she has in store for Nick and Lyriope!
The story starts immediately and she does a good job setting up the backstory. It’s Duo POV, which I always enjoy. Can’t wait to see what she has in store for Nick and Lyriope!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews