Queen of Hearts

By: Colleen Oakes

Narrated by: Moira Quirk

The first novel in Colleen Oakes’s epic, imaginative and twisted series, perfect for fans of Dorothy Must Die and Heartless, tackles the origin of one of the most infamous villains—the Queen of Hearts.

This is not the story of the Wonderland we know. Alice has not fallen down a rabbit hole. This is a Wonderland where beneath each smile lies a secret, each tart comes with a demand, and only prisoners tell the truth.

Dinah is the princess who will one day reign over Wonderland. She has not yet seen the dark depths of her kingdom; she longs only for her father’s approval and a future with the boy she loves. But when a betrayal breaks her heart and threatens her throne, she is launched into Wonderland’s dangerous political game. Dinah must stay one step ahead of her cunning enemies or she’ll lose not just the crown but her head.

Don’t miss Blood of Wonderland, the must-read sequel to Dinah’s story!

Wonderland

I enjoyed this different perspective on an old favorite story. You learn the backstory for the Queen of Hearts.

Wonderland

Awesome I'm going to go get the next one. I don't doubt it'll be just a great.

A more than fine novel for fans of Carroll's work

The story is well crafted, plus the vision of the original characters is both pleasantly familiar and refreshing.

The nod to American McGee's Alice made me giddy, though.

Best take on "Alice in Wonderland"

"Alice in Wonderland" is one of my favorite classic stories and this was one of the best books that I have read as far as a prequel/ different take on the story!

Dinah is the Princess of Hearts and the story takes place the year before she is to be crowned the queen. Her younger brother, Charles, is mad...in fact he is a mad hatter and will never be able to have his chance to rule beside his sister as king. Months before she is to be crowned, she will learn there is more to Wonderland and her father than she ever thought possible. She will be surprised to find out a long kept secret by her father, go on an adventure with Wardley, her best friend and heart card, in the black towers, and learn the true definition of courage the day before she is to be crowned.

Queen of Hearts Impressions

What made the experience of listening to Queen of Hearts the most enjoyable?

The performance and story was astonishing and creative, keeping me thoroughly trapped in the world.

What did you like best about this story?

The setting, the characters, the dialogue.

What about Moira Quirk’s performance did you like?

Her portrayals of each character was outstanding and dramatic, only aiding to my immersion in the novel.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It trapped me in its world. I couldn't stop listening, finished in a day!

Any additional comments?

Make sure to complete your experience with book 2, Blood of Wonderland before judging this creative and well imagined world.