Heartless by Marissa Meyer

Heartless

by Marissa Meyer

A vision of Wonderland like none you've seen before, Heartless tells the untold story of the girl who would become the notorious Queen of Hearts. From New York Times bestselling author and TikTok sensation, Marissa Meyer.

Long before she was the Queen of Hearts, Catherine Pinkerton was just a girl who wanted to fall in love.

Catherine may be one of the most desired girls in Wonderland, and a favorite of the unmarried King of Hearts, but her interests lie elsewhere. A talented baker, all she wants is to open a shop with her best friend. But according to her mother, such a goal is unthinkable for the young woman who could be the next queen.

Then Cath meets Jest, the handsome and mysterious court joker. For the first time, she feels the pull of true attraction. At the risk of offending the king and infuriating her parents, she and Jest enter into an intense, secret courtship. Cath is determined to define her own destiny and fall in love on her terms. But in a land thriving with magic, madness, and monsters, fate has other plans . . .

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Reviewed by Amber (The Literary Phoenix) on

4 of 5 stars

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Absolutely loved this one!

I'm always game for an Alice in Wonderland retelling, but I've been burned before. This one filled with delightful Easter Eggs and strong characters. I really appreciate the fact that the chosen leads are not our usual fare - no Alice in this one, and even the ever popular Hatter plays a supporting role. The Cheshire Cat is a minor character, but he's perfect. EVERYONE is included from the original stories. EVERYONE.

The plot is a little less exciting - it's not the most original thing I've ever read, and it's a love triangle besides... but the characters and the world-building have so much heart... I forgive it's shortcomings. I really, really enjoyed this book to its core. I think this is a must read for any Alice in Wonderland fan and I absolutely must get it in hardcopy.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 14 December, 2018: Finished reading
  • 14 December, 2018: Reviewed