**Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan Australia for sending an ARC in return for an honest review. 
 4.75 stars!!! 
 I am a huge fan of Marissa Meyer especially after having read 'Cinder' and when I heard she was coming up with a novel based on 'Wonderland', I just knew I had to get a copy. Well, the book has definitely lived up to my expectations. I had to take a bit of time to gather all my feelings together and I think I'm finally calm enough to give an adequate review :) 
 As always Marissa's writing is phenomenal in this book. I found the descriptions of Wonderland, the characters and events delightfully odd and whimsical. The worldbuilding is very immersive and she has done an amazing job of portraying this fantastical world that many of us are aware of. I know that many readers have categorized this novel as a retelling but I feel it's more of a backstory to the Queen of Hearts. In the sense, we get a better understanding of how she became the villain that she is. I found this rather refreshing because most Wonderland books seem to be based on Alice and this shows things from a whole different perspective. 
 With regards to Catherine, I found her to be very relatable because I sort of understand the position she is faced with. She has so many hurdles that she tries to overcome but no matter how hard she tries, fate seems to have other plans for her. I felt so crushed by the things she had to endure. The society she lived in seemed so old fashioned and cruel. While the King who she is to marry was a complete fool and not to mention her over-bearing parents. The only light in her life is Jest and I think he was a truly unique character. I found him to be very lovable. I would say he was the perfect book boyfriend. By the end of the story, I can definitely say my view of the Queen of Hearts has changed. I can't help but feel compassion and sympathy for her. 
 The pace of the novel is, however, rather slow. It begins with Cath trying to pursue her dreams of becoming a baker along with her best friend. There were long drawn out instances of her plans and events where she baked things which was a tad bit boring. But the middle and end of the story made up for it a lot. I guess this book was more based on characterization than plot which Marissa seems to have pulled off really well. 
 My only frustration with the story was at times with Cath. I wish she had some guts to pursue what she believed in. I felt at times she just caved in to circumstances. I don't think real life is like that. We are called to pursue our dreams and take the opportunity to change our circumstances. But I get why, Cath made the decisions that she did and that was to give the ending the book needed. Though it is still frustrating nonetheless. For me, I guess the story stirred up some deeper emotions about life and sometimes having the nerve to stand up for yourself. I guess that's what makes this book really good :) 
 Overall, a wonderful read and a great addition to the Wonderland retellings. Please tell me this is a series. I hope it is because I would love to read the backstories of the other characters like maybe the White and Red Queens? That would be awesome :)