Review: Heartless

As an avid fan of Marissa Meyer's books, I am shocked it has taken me so long to get around to reading this novel - but I am so glad I finally did! The novel acts as a prequel to Alice in Wonderland, and tells the story of the infamous Queen of Hearts before she became the ruthless ruler we know her as. 

The story follows Catherine Pinkerton, a young woman who dreams of becoming a baker and opening her own bakery in Wonderland. However, as the daughter of a Marquess, she is expected to marry well and become the wife of a wealthy man. 

At a royal ball, she captures the attention of the King of Hearts, who wants Catherine to be his bride. However, despite her parents' expectations, Catherine falls in love with Jest, the mysterious and charming court Joker. 

As Catherine is torn between her own dreams and the expectations placed upon her, a series of tragic events begin to unfold, ultimately changing her life forever and revealing how the kind-hearted Catherine becomes the cold and heartless Queen of Hearts.

Despite the novel having a slow start, the story soon became difficult to put down as the plot began to unfold. I always love a villain origin story, and this did not disappoint! The book features characters we know and love - The Cheshire Cat, and 'Mad' the Mad Hatter - both of whom were delightful. Catherine, the protagonist was such a beautiful character, and although I already knew who she was going to become, I was rooting for her the entire book. 

The romance between Catherine and Jest was gorgeous and age appropriate which I LOVE! Jest was the perfect romantic lead and even though we can guess how the book will inevitably end, I was rooting for them the entire book. Which leads me to the ending.

It absolutely broke my heart - it shattered me! Unlike many fairytales, there was sadly no happy ever after... 

This is a clean, YA romance that I recommend to all readers aged 12+. Despite the tragic ending, the book was a true delight to read - but be warned, you may need tissues! I will never look at the Queen of Hearts the same way.

Title: Heartless
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends $18.99
Publication Date: November 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781250044655
For ages: 12+
Type: Young adult fiction