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Escape from the Castle of Illusions

Alex Bell

Is this the end of the line for the Train of Dark Wonders?

Trouble is brewing at the Odditorium, where the gateway to the Land of Fairy Tales is about to open. For, as Bess knows only too well, fairy tales are nothing like the ones from the storybooks. Queen Cinderella wants her stolen magic slipper back and nothing will get in her way.

It soon becomes clear that Bess’s only choice is to travel to the Land of Fairy Tales and face Cinderella. With her friends by her side, she is determined to finish what her grandfather started by venturing to the queen’s legendary castle of illusions.

But as Bess and her friends fall victim to a series of sneaky tricks and enchantments, time is running out in their quest to find their happily ever after. And there’s a chance they may never escape unless they defeat the evil fairy-tale queen once and for all…

  • Publication date: October 2, 2025
  • ISBN: 9780861546046
  • RRP: £7.99
  • Pages: 304
  • Publication date:
  • ISBN: 9780861546077
  • RRP: £
  • Pages: 304

Reviews

Praise for The Train of Dark Wonders series:

‘A magical and thrilling story.’ One of National Book Tokens' 23 new children’s books to read in 2023

'A story to be savoured as much as any Halloween treat... sharp and fizzing, with a warm, sweet centre.' Jodie Garnish, author of The Spectaculars

'Prepare for more thrills and spills with the third book in the deliciously spooky Train of Dark Wonders adventure series from popular author Alex Bell whose writing is exciting and full of imaginative world-building... Brought to life by the atmospheric illustrations of Beatriz Castro, this fabulous fairy tale romp, with a warm heart and an addictive sense of fun, is the perfect blend of joy and jeopardy… and will appeal to all young adventurers!' Lancashire Evening Post

Alex Bell

Alex Bell has written multiple books for both adults and young people, including Frozen Charlotte, a Zoella Book Club pick, and The Polar Bear Explorers’ Club. After training as a lawyer, she now works at the Citizens Advice Bureau. Alex lives in Hampshire with her husband, sons and demanding Siamese cat.

Author page

More books by Alex Bell

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