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The Great and Terrible Land #1
West of Wicked: The Great and Terrible Land Book 1
Not yet published
Expected 14 Apr 26Dorothy Gale doesn’t know where she came from. She has only the vaguest memory of anything before life in the dull, gray world of the vast Kansas
She remembers wanting to go home and clinging to a woman who wasn’t her mother. There was a summer storm, wind so violent it made her hair stand sideways. The woman handed Dorothy over to two strangers and begged them to please take her. She doesn’t remember the woman well, but she remembers the blood on her face.
Dorothy’s older now, and she feels like she’s missing something vital in her life. It’s only when she’s hooking up with Edward in the hayloft of the barn that she feels electric—like the world is finally in full color. She’s been chasing that high ever since. Though that high isn’t enough to pin her down when Edward proposes…again. Dorothy knows the sensible thing to do is settle down with him, but she is torn—she wants to find out who she really is, and to do that, she needs to leave Kansas. But Henry and Em took her in and raised her as their own. The least she can do is pay them back as they age, and the farm is a lot of work for them to handle alone.
Then a cyclone rips through the night and carries her, her dog, and the farmhouse somewhere a lot farther than Dorothy imagined. She’s in a strange land that’s apparently cursed, shrouded in shadow. And to get home, Dorothy needs to seek out a wizard. To find him, she’ll need to follow a treacherous path and watch out for a never-ending list of forest beasts, witches, a cursed assassin, and perhaps most dangerous of all, the wizard himself.
She remembers wanting to go home and clinging to a woman who wasn’t her mother. There was a summer storm, wind so violent it made her hair stand sideways. The woman handed Dorothy over to two strangers and begged them to please take her. She doesn’t remember the woman well, but she remembers the blood on her face.
Dorothy’s older now, and she feels like she’s missing something vital in her life. It’s only when she’s hooking up with Edward in the hayloft of the barn that she feels electric—like the world is finally in full color. She’s been chasing that high ever since. Though that high isn’t enough to pin her down when Edward proposes…again. Dorothy knows the sensible thing to do is settle down with him, but she is torn—she wants to find out who she really is, and to do that, she needs to leave Kansas. But Henry and Em took her in and raised her as their own. The least she can do is pay them back as they age, and the farm is a lot of work for them to handle alone.
Then a cyclone rips through the night and carries her, her dog, and the farmhouse somewhere a lot farther than Dorothy imagined. She’s in a strange land that’s apparently cursed, shrouded in shadow. And to get home, Dorothy needs to seek out a wizard. To find him, she’ll need to follow a treacherous path and watch out for a never-ending list of forest beasts, witches, a cursed assassin, and perhaps most dangerous of all, the wizard himself.
Audible Audio
Expected publication April 14, 2026
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About the author
Nikki St. Crowe
29 books11.9k followersNikki St. Crowe is a USA Today and No. 1 Amazon Bestselling Author specializing in dark, spicy romantasy where the villain gets the girl and the girl gets the power.
Nikki considers the start of her professional career to be in the 4th grade when she placed 2nd in a Young Author’s Competition. Back then she crafted stories about magical mansions and lost treasure. She’s since ditched the treasure hunts, but she'll never give up on the magical mansions (or the morally grey men who inhabit them).
These days, when Nikki isn’t writing or daydreaming about villains, she can either be found in the woods or at home with her husband and daughter.
For information on new releases, sign up for Nikki’s newsletter, The Forbidden Garden: https://nikkistcrowe.myflodesk.com/th...
Nikki considers the start of her professional career to be in the 4th grade when she placed 2nd in a Young Author’s Competition. Back then she crafted stories about magical mansions and lost treasure. She’s since ditched the treasure hunts, but she'll never give up on the magical mansions (or the morally grey men who inhabit them).
These days, when Nikki isn’t writing or daydreaming about villains, she can either be found in the woods or at home with her husband and daughter.
For information on new releases, sign up for Nikki’s newsletter, The Forbidden Garden: https://nikkistcrowe.myflodesk.com/th...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
December 21, 2025
Thanks to the publisher for the provided arc 💌
I’ll preface by saying I really enjoyed Nikki St. Crowe’s Vicious Lost Boys series. Literally devoured them all in 48 hours. The excitement for another retelling set in yet another favorite world has been building for months and I was so thrilled to get to be an early reader.
The story starts with a charming familiarity of how Dorothy finds herself in Oz with a little modern flare. Was kind of giving me Mia Goth’s Pearl vibes.
I think the world building became very convoluted very quickly and found myself not feeling compelled to pick it back up. Lots of places and people being named without much explanation as to their significance so I felt like I had been dropped into the middle of a scene as opposed to getting to watch it build overtime at a digestible pace.
At around 100 pages, *some* romance was being briefly alluded to but it was mentioned abruptly & a bit oddly so I found myself not caring much as it progressed.
I’m sad this one missed the mark for me but I’m sure it will find a target audience in other readers 🫶🏻
I’ll preface by saying I really enjoyed Nikki St. Crowe’s Vicious Lost Boys series. Literally devoured them all in 48 hours. The excitement for another retelling set in yet another favorite world has been building for months and I was so thrilled to get to be an early reader.
The story starts with a charming familiarity of how Dorothy finds herself in Oz with a little modern flare. Was kind of giving me Mia Goth’s Pearl vibes.
I think the world building became very convoluted very quickly and found myself not feeling compelled to pick it back up. Lots of places and people being named without much explanation as to their significance so I felt like I had been dropped into the middle of a scene as opposed to getting to watch it build overtime at a digestible pace.
At around 100 pages, *some* romance was being briefly alluded to but it was mentioned abruptly & a bit oddly so I found myself not caring much as it progressed.
I’m sad this one missed the mark for me but I’m sure it will find a target audience in other readers 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to the publisher for giving me an ARC to review.
I was pulled in with promises of a dark retelling of Wizard of Oz and though it wasn't as a dark as I was expecting, this was a really good read. This sent me on a journey through Oz that was very different from the story we know and love, it was refreshing. Plus that cliffhanger!
Dorothy was fierce and I loved her witty personality. She was very relateable in her inner monologue and she was funny. My favourite POV was Tinman, I love him and can't wait to see what else he does in future books.
Overall, I need the next book and I really recommend this one!
I was pulled in with promises of a dark retelling of Wizard of Oz and though it wasn't as a dark as I was expecting, this was a really good read. This sent me on a journey through Oz that was very different from the story we know and love, it was refreshing. Plus that cliffhanger!
Dorothy was fierce and I loved her witty personality. She was very relateable in her inner monologue and she was funny. My favourite POV was Tinman, I love him and can't wait to see what else he does in future books.
Overall, I need the next book and I really recommend this one!
March 8, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest opinion.
3.25 ⭐️, 2 🌶️
OK…so, I liked it, BUT I was expecting a little more…of EVERYTHING? More backstory for some of the characters, more about this version of OZ and if I’m being honest- MORE SPICE 🌶️. As someone who read the Vicious Lost Boys books, I expected more heat from this author. Dorothy was your run-of-the-mill FMC who “wants more out of life” and finds herself in a strange land with several witches (and a Wizard) after her. Oh, and of course she has mystical powers she was previously unaware of. Fine. I’ll read it. The Scarecrow and Tin Man were your typical mysterious MMC’s, but I enjoyed their chapters. Not sure where we’re going with Clio’s character and she got on my nerves more than once.
That being said, I liked the ‘twist’ at the end and that is what kinda saved this book for me, AND the reason I’ll read the next book(s) in this series because NOW I need to know what happens. The narrators were good as always and it was a fairly quick listen. Throw it on while you’re cleaning the kitchen or folding clothes- it will keep your attention.
3.25 ⭐️, 2 🌶️
OK…so, I liked it, BUT I was expecting a little more…of EVERYTHING? More backstory for some of the characters, more about this version of OZ and if I’m being honest- MORE SPICE 🌶️. As someone who read the Vicious Lost Boys books, I expected more heat from this author. Dorothy was your run-of-the-mill FMC who “wants more out of life” and finds herself in a strange land with several witches (and a Wizard) after her. Oh, and of course she has mystical powers she was previously unaware of. Fine. I’ll read it. The Scarecrow and Tin Man were your typical mysterious MMC’s, but I enjoyed their chapters. Not sure where we’re going with Clio’s character and she got on my nerves more than once.
That being said, I liked the ‘twist’ at the end and that is what kinda saved this book for me, AND the reason I’ll read the next book(s) in this series because NOW I need to know what happens. The narrators were good as always and it was a fairly quick listen. Throw it on while you’re cleaning the kitchen or folding clothes- it will keep your attention.
March 11, 2026
West of Wicked retells The Wizard of Oz, adding a darker and slightly spicy edge. I’m usually wary of retellings, but this one surprised me in a good way. I liked seeing many of the classic characters, each with their own unique spin. I especially liked Dorothy as an adult, unsure of what she wants in life, and the Tin Man as the villain. The full cast of narrators did a fantastic job bringing this book to life, and I hope the same cast continues in the next book. I need to get my hands on the sequel as soon as possible after that cliffhanger ending.
West of Wicked is out April 14th.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to review West of Wicked. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
West of Wicked is out April 14th.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to review West of Wicked. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 27, 2026
Wow this was so much better than Wicked. This is the story that should’ve been made into a film!
I am not the biggest fan of The Wizard of Oz to be honest so not a Wicked fan, but I am a massive fan of Nikki St. Crowe so when I saw this I just needed to read it.
I was hooked from the start, and couldn’t put it down, such an engaging story line and interesting complex characters. I didn’t guess the biggest twist but did work out who was who in relation to the original story.
This is such a refreshing take on an otherwise, in my opinion, boring story, this was much more to my liking and there better be more to this and I cannot wait for it!
Thank you to netgalley for my copy in exchange of my honest review
I am not the biggest fan of The Wizard of Oz to be honest so not a Wicked fan, but I am a massive fan of Nikki St. Crowe so when I saw this I just needed to read it.
I was hooked from the start, and couldn’t put it down, such an engaging story line and interesting complex characters. I didn’t guess the biggest twist but did work out who was who in relation to the original story.
This is such a refreshing take on an otherwise, in my opinion, boring story, this was much more to my liking and there better be more to this and I cannot wait for it!
Thank you to netgalley for my copy in exchange of my honest review
March 9, 2026
3.5⭐️
As someone who isn’t a huge fan of the Wizard of Oz
I thought this was a really fun time! 💚
I really enjoyed the adventure and the twists!
We still have Dorothy and all our familiar character
But make them darker 🖤
If you are looking for a Wizard of Oz retelling that’s short but a good time definitely read this one!
As someone who isn’t a huge fan of the Wizard of Oz
I thought this was a really fun time! 💚
I really enjoyed the adventure and the twists!
We still have Dorothy and all our familiar character
But make them darker 🖤
If you are looking for a Wizard of Oz retelling that’s short but a good time definitely read this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ако бях милостив човек щях да ѝ дам нещичко от мен, но не съм. RTC.
March 5, 2026
That ending!!! Bring on book 2!
So… funny story. I have actually read another book by this author one other time. I was trying to read the Ever King series but because of one little added consonant to “ever” I was sent down a COMPLETELY different reading experience. One that I never asked for. I like to make the comparison to something like a 1970’s porno. You know the one… where the unsuspecting person thinks they’re having a pepperoni pizza delivered but instead winds up with a mouth full of salami. 😳 Yeah… reading the Never King series was a bit something like that. Before that series my innocent brain was blissfully unaware of all the things multiple men could do with just one hole. 😰😭
But we are not here to talk about the Never King series, we are here to talk about West Of Wicked. So let’s get into it.
Full disclosure, I am suffering from a serious case of compulsive request syndrome right now. I see a pretty cover and I request that shit, triggers and content be damned! It isn’t until my arc request is accepted that I think, hm, I probably should have looked into this a little deeper. It was after my request was accepted that I realized who the author was and the other books she has written. That being said, I didn’t shy away because what am I if not an unpaid professional damnit! I rolled up my sleeves, stretched my neck side to side and hit play ready to spend what I expected to be the next 8 hours of my life listening to Dorthy get railed by the lion, the tin man, the scarecrow and a gang bang with at least 20 eager munchkins.
To my surprise, it really wasn’t all that smutty.
So, if you haven’t guessed it already, West Of Wicked is a dark fantasy retelling of the Wizard Of Oz. The story starts out pretty standard enough. We meet Dorthy, she lives on a farm in Kansas with her aunt and uncle. I knew almost immediately I wouldn’t be the target audience for this book because I’m not gonna lie, I was rooting for the boring farm boy at the beginning of the story. He seemed so sweet! But let’s be honest, Nikki St. Crowe doesn’t write “sweet”. 😂
The writing is NSC’s standard writing style. Multiple POVs, the audio stars her usual voice narrators. I think it’s safe to say if you like NSC’s writing style you will also love this book as well. I could see her loyal readers being disappointed in the lack of fairytale inspired debauchery that we have come to know and love but I have no doubt it will be present in the books to follow in this series. I could complain about the lack of character development and superficial storytelling but let’s be honest, we don’t grab these books for their depth, we grab them for the jaw dropping spice scenes and pretty decent plot squeezed in between.
So yeah, I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a fun, guilty pleasure who also enjoyed the Never King series.
Thank you NetGalley for an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
So… funny story. I have actually read another book by this author one other time. I was trying to read the Ever King series but because of one little added consonant to “ever” I was sent down a COMPLETELY different reading experience. One that I never asked for. I like to make the comparison to something like a 1970’s porno. You know the one… where the unsuspecting person thinks they’re having a pepperoni pizza delivered but instead winds up with a mouth full of salami. 😳 Yeah… reading the Never King series was a bit something like that. Before that series my innocent brain was blissfully unaware of all the things multiple men could do with just one hole. 😰😭
But we are not here to talk about the Never King series, we are here to talk about West Of Wicked. So let’s get into it.
Full disclosure, I am suffering from a serious case of compulsive request syndrome right now. I see a pretty cover and I request that shit, triggers and content be damned! It isn’t until my arc request is accepted that I think, hm, I probably should have looked into this a little deeper. It was after my request was accepted that I realized who the author was and the other books she has written. That being said, I didn’t shy away because what am I if not an unpaid professional damnit! I rolled up my sleeves, stretched my neck side to side and hit play ready to spend what I expected to be the next 8 hours of my life listening to Dorthy get railed by the lion, the tin man, the scarecrow and a gang bang with at least 20 eager munchkins.
To my surprise, it really wasn’t all that smutty.
So, if you haven’t guessed it already, West Of Wicked is a dark fantasy retelling of the Wizard Of Oz. The story starts out pretty standard enough. We meet Dorthy, she lives on a farm in Kansas with her aunt and uncle. I knew almost immediately I wouldn’t be the target audience for this book because I’m not gonna lie, I was rooting for the boring farm boy at the beginning of the story. He seemed so sweet! But let’s be honest, Nikki St. Crowe doesn’t write “sweet”. 😂
The writing is NSC’s standard writing style. Multiple POVs, the audio stars her usual voice narrators. I think it’s safe to say if you like NSC’s writing style you will also love this book as well. I could see her loyal readers being disappointed in the lack of fairytale inspired debauchery that we have come to know and love but I have no doubt it will be present in the books to follow in this series. I could complain about the lack of character development and superficial storytelling but let’s be honest, we don’t grab these books for their depth, we grab them for the jaw dropping spice scenes and pretty decent plot squeezed in between.
So yeah, I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a fun, guilty pleasure who also enjoyed the Never King series.
Thank you NetGalley for an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
March 6, 2026
A dark romantasy retelling of The Wizard of Oz! Honestly, the trigger warnings had me pumped. While it was dark, I was actually hoping for a bit darker, but that's the horror fan in me! That being said, I really enjoyed it! I've been on a huge mood reading kick and it's taken me all over the place with genre, which I am glad for because this is slightly out of my usual reads. We encounter all of the same familiar characters from The Wizard of Oz--but totally different! Dorothy is swept away by a cyclone and lands in a mysterious place that seems cursed and peculiar. Her very first encounter there ends in bloodshed. She doesn't realize just how far from home she is, but is determined to find her way back. Advised to follow the yellow brick road to see the Wizard, she is joined by a handsome stranger named Rook who woke up with no memories. They are both looking for answers. What unfolds is atmospheric, exciting, a little sexy, and familiar yet different all at the same time! This Oz is dangerous and edgy, full of monsters, witches, and morally grey characters. I just had such a good time reading it and there are definitely some twists you won't see coming!!!
Thank you to Bramble for the gifted ARC! Book releases 4/14/26.
Thank you to Bramble for the gifted ARC! Book releases 4/14/26.
March 4, 2026
3.5⭐️
I really wanted to love this book. For the first 20%, I was well on my way — intrigued, invested, and optimistic. Unfortunately, it fell off for me as the story became too convoluted and weighed down by heavy world-building and extraneous details that slowed the pacing to a crawl.
Admittedly, retellings aren’t usually my thing, but this one piqued my interest and I was genuinely excited to receive it. One major highlight was the full-cast audiobook narration by Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, and Stella Hunter. Their performances absolutely carried the story for me and kept me engaged long enough to finish, especially when I really started to struggle around the 55% mark.
In the end, I’m glad I read it. Fans of The Wizard of Oz who enjoy darker, more twisted interpretations of the classic tale will likely appreciate what this book brings to the table. I did enjoy the romance and the story’s twist — both added an extra layer that helped redeem the experience for me.
While it wasn’t quite the retelling I hoped for, it still had moments of magic.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Macmillan Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
I really wanted to love this book. For the first 20%, I was well on my way — intrigued, invested, and optimistic. Unfortunately, it fell off for me as the story became too convoluted and weighed down by heavy world-building and extraneous details that slowed the pacing to a crawl.
Admittedly, retellings aren’t usually my thing, but this one piqued my interest and I was genuinely excited to receive it. One major highlight was the full-cast audiobook narration by Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, and Stella Hunter. Their performances absolutely carried the story for me and kept me engaged long enough to finish, especially when I really started to struggle around the 55% mark.
In the end, I’m glad I read it. Fans of The Wizard of Oz who enjoy darker, more twisted interpretations of the classic tale will likely appreciate what this book brings to the table. I did enjoy the romance and the story’s twist — both added an extra layer that helped redeem the experience for me.
While it wasn’t quite the retelling I hoped for, it still had moments of magic.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Macmillan Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
February 21, 2026
Thank you Tor and Nikki St Crowe for the ARC💌
I love anything and everything to do with The Wizard of Oz, so as soon as I saw that this was coming out I knew I needed to read it. I was not disappointed!!!!
This was such a dark fun twist on Oz. I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and the mystery surrounding everything. The plot was interesting and unique to the Oz franchise. The plot twist/ cliff hanger had my jaw literally on the floor!
I fear I am mainly obsessed with Rook. He’s dark and alluring and can’t remember anything. Dorothy is timid but resilient and I loved learning more about her as the story progressed. I definitely want to know more about Cleo and The Tin Woodman!!!
Overall this truly was such fun and so so easy to read!
I love anything and everything to do with The Wizard of Oz, so as soon as I saw that this was coming out I knew I needed to read it. I was not disappointed!!!!
This was such a dark fun twist on Oz. I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and the mystery surrounding everything. The plot was interesting and unique to the Oz franchise. The plot twist/ cliff hanger had my jaw literally on the floor!
I fear I am mainly obsessed with Rook. He’s dark and alluring and can’t remember anything. Dorothy is timid but resilient and I loved learning more about her as the story progressed. I definitely want to know more about Cleo and The Tin Woodman!!!
Overall this truly was such fun and so so easy to read!
March 10, 2026
arc review ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ
i really enjoyed this! it was fun making connections between this story & the original movie. very quick read, fun characters, and an interesting plot. i will definitely read the next book!
however, i feel like at some points it was too quick & a bit confusing. i wanted to know more about the characters and i feel i didn’t get enough time to get attached to really be impacted by the ending.
i also generally dislike a damsel in distress but that’s preference.
overall, a cute & quick read that is a fun retelling, and hopefully the start of a great series!!!
i really enjoyed this! it was fun making connections between this story & the original movie. very quick read, fun characters, and an interesting plot. i will definitely read the next book!
however, i feel like at some points it was too quick & a bit confusing. i wanted to know more about the characters and i feel i didn’t get enough time to get attached to really be impacted by the ending.
i also generally dislike a damsel in distress but that’s preference.
overall, a cute & quick read that is a fun retelling, and hopefully the start of a great series!!!
March 10, 2026
Thank you Macmillan for the ALC.
While I normally love Nicki’s books, I found this one lacking. It doesn’t have her usually banter and spice levels that I was really looking forward to.
As someone who is a devout fan of Wicked I was hoping this would be fantastic but it was kind of a let down. I don’t mind a rewritten story where the characters have different endings and things but I was just confused here.
I wanted more. More spice and more story. We are left on a cliffhanger and that’s it.
While I normally love Nicki’s books, I found this one lacking. It doesn’t have her usually banter and spice levels that I was really looking forward to.
As someone who is a devout fan of Wicked I was hoping this would be fantastic but it was kind of a let down. I don’t mind a rewritten story where the characters have different endings and things but I was just confused here.
I wanted more. More spice and more story. We are left on a cliffhanger and that’s it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wizard of Oz has always been one of my favourite films, so I was super intrigued by this darker Oz inspired story.
There was a lot of world building but I found this easy to follow as we are learning alongside the main character Dorothy. The plot moved along well and the cliffhanger left me wanting the next book immediately.
So far the Tinman is my favourite character but I'm sure there's others to meet along the way
There was a lot of world building but I found this easy to follow as we are learning alongside the main character Dorothy. The plot moved along well and the cliffhanger left me wanting the next book immediately.
So far the Tinman is my favourite character but I'm sure there's others to meet along the way
March 7, 2026
4.25⭐, 2.5🌶️
Holy. Hecking. Wow. That Cliffhanger?! INSANE! What a plot twist and I CAN NOT WAIT to see
This book wasn’t a spicy as pervious first books of Nikki’s I’ve read, but it also didn’t take away. I loved how much of this book is really setting up the story for the future books - I feel like we know all the characters, and we’re gonna find out so many hidden stories in the next book (which I hope so cause honestly there were a lot of characters and I got confused at times on everyone’s identity).
💚Wizard of Oz Retelling
🖤Hidden Identity
🌪️ Dark Romance
🤯 KILLER CLIFHANGER
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATLEY!
Thank you NetGalley and Bramble/ Macmillan Audio for an eARC/ ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Holy. Hecking. Wow. That Cliffhanger?! INSANE! What a plot twist and I CAN NOT WAIT to see
This book wasn’t a spicy as pervious first books of Nikki’s I’ve read, but it also didn’t take away. I loved how much of this book is really setting up the story for the future books - I feel like we know all the characters, and we’re gonna find out so many hidden stories in the next book (which I hope so cause honestly there were a lot of characters and I got confused at times on everyone’s identity).
💚Wizard of Oz Retelling
🖤Hidden Identity
🌪️ Dark Romance
🤯 KILLER CLIFHANGER
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATLEY!
Thank you NetGalley and Bramble/ Macmillan Audio for an eARC/ ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
November 18, 2025
eh işte
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm obsessed already.
RTC
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a fun retelling! I hope I can read book two SOON because this one's got a cliffy and I'm hung.
March 5, 2026
I quite liked this novel. It was an interesting retelling of The Wizard of Oz. The characters were intriguing and the twists were enough to keep me enticed to keep going.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you love your classic tales served with a wicked grin, a shadowy twist, and a pinch of spice, West of Wicked is definitely your kind of adventure.
Dorothy Gale starts off living the quiet Kansas farm life with Em, Henry, and the ever-faithful Toto. She’s grateful for the life they’ve given her, but gratitude doesn’t make the endless chores any more thrilling. Even a few illicit barn rendezvous with Edward, the determined would-be fiancé from the neighbouring farm, aren’t enough to convince her that this is all she’s meant for. Dorothy wants more, even if her guilt keeps her tied to home.
Then comes the tornado; and we all know what happens next… except this version definitely didn’t come from your childhood storybook. Dorothy lands in Oz, accidentally drops a house on the Witch of the East, and suddenly she’s a hero whether she likes it or not. Her quest to find the Wizard leads her to a very unconventional Scarecrow, and the bond that forms between them is one of the book’s early highlights.
But things take a darker turn when the Witch of the West sends the Tinman, her deadliest mercenary, to track Dorothy down in exchange for something he desperately craves. From here, the story morphs into a gritty, seductive reimagining of Oz that’s full of surprises, danger, and a deliciously twisted sense of wonder.
The spice? It’s there, but a little uninspiring for now. It feels like the author is simmering the pot and saving the real heat for later books, which I’m absolutely expecting (and hoping) to see.
West of Wicked is dark, clever, and full of unexpected turns. It hooked me quickly, and I’m genuinely excited to see how the rest of this series unfolds.
**Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC**
Dorothy Gale starts off living the quiet Kansas farm life with Em, Henry, and the ever-faithful Toto. She’s grateful for the life they’ve given her, but gratitude doesn’t make the endless chores any more thrilling. Even a few illicit barn rendezvous with Edward, the determined would-be fiancé from the neighbouring farm, aren’t enough to convince her that this is all she’s meant for. Dorothy wants more, even if her guilt keeps her tied to home.
Then comes the tornado; and we all know what happens next… except this version definitely didn’t come from your childhood storybook. Dorothy lands in Oz, accidentally drops a house on the Witch of the East, and suddenly she’s a hero whether she likes it or not. Her quest to find the Wizard leads her to a very unconventional Scarecrow, and the bond that forms between them is one of the book’s early highlights.
But things take a darker turn when the Witch of the West sends the Tinman, her deadliest mercenary, to track Dorothy down in exchange for something he desperately craves. From here, the story morphs into a gritty, seductive reimagining of Oz that’s full of surprises, danger, and a deliciously twisted sense of wonder.
The spice? It’s there, but a little uninspiring for now. It feels like the author is simmering the pot and saving the real heat for later books, which I’m absolutely expecting (and hoping) to see.
West of Wicked is dark, clever, and full of unexpected turns. It hooked me quickly, and I’m genuinely excited to see how the rest of this series unfolds.
**Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC**
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to MacMillan audio, NetGalley, and Nikki St. Crowe for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
When I was a little kid, I remember watching "The Wizard of Oz" with a strange mixture of awe and terror. From the menacing horror of the tornado to the technicolor splendor of Munnchkinland, the possibilities the movie evoked captivated my imagination for years to come.
As an adult, retellings of that classic story don't hit me with quite the same sense of wonder, but I'm always excited to see a new take on the land of Oz, especially if it subverts my expectations. Nikki St. Crowe's "West of Wicked" offered exactly that kind of unique perspective that mixed the familiar story with darker, more foreboding possibilities, and I enjoyed being whisked into the cyclone of this new and more sinister land of Oz, especially with the multi-POVs of the talented narrators.
The story begins with a twist from the very first scene; we learn immediately that Dorothy is not related by blood to "Aunt" Emma and "Uncle" Henry. Instead, she is dropped off by a woman not immediately identified in the midst of a terrible storm, and is taken in by the kindhearted couple. We also learn that the setting for this retelling takes place in somewhat "modern" times: the language is modern English, and Dorothy isn't quite as wholesome as the image from the classic novel. She has a lover, a farm boy named Edward, is frustrated by her life in what passes for Kansas, and struggles with the abandonment that's haunted her all her life. When the tornado appears to whisk her away, we learn that while the classic scene of the house falling on the Witch of the East happens, it's not ALL that happens, and sets in motion a chain of events that sends Dorothy spiraling down the Yellow Brick Road.
Along the way, she meets classic characters, many of which we recognize from the original novel and movie: the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the "cardinal witches", one for each point on a standard compass. Yet, the way the author plays with the expectations of those characters and cleverly changes their core personality traits was wildly entertaining, and it kept me guessing even as the familiar story unfolded, because this Oz is full of darkness, betrayal, and the thirst for power, all of which puts Dorothy in the crosshairs of danger. We're also introduced to new characters that add an extra layer of intrigue, including Cleo, an apprentice to the Witch of the East, and Feos, the captain of the flying monkeys. As Dorothy travels toward the Emerald City, she soon learns that she's here for a very specific purpose, hunted by a pursuer that will not stop until they catch their prize, and in the final act of the novel, a massive reveal turns the entire story on its head once again, setting us up perfectly for book two.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere, pacing, and structure of the book. When they're done well, retellings take well-loved material and turn them into something unique and enjoyable; they take elements of the source but "remix" it enough so that the new story stands on its own, with key callbacks to the original almost acting as Easter eggs. In a lot of (good) ways, it reminded me of the 80's movie "Return to Oz," with the original characters almost seeming like they'd been put through a cracked funhouse mirror.
For the most part, I thought this retelling was very successful. My imagination was piqued by the familiar "blueprints" with new, darker overtones, and the world building was solid enough so that I could easily picture this new, grittier Oz. As someone who is a huge fan of high fantasy, I appreciated the detail the author brought to the settings and characters, and while we don't have all the details on the magic system yet, we learn enough to keep us intrigued. The setup for the twists were subtle and well thought through, and even though I was able to guess most of them, I was truly surprised by the final reveal, and the ones I did guess left me satisfied instead of feeling like they were too predictable.
I experienced this novel entirely through audiobook, and the narration was a highlight for me. MacMillan (the publisher) does an incredible job at selecting narrators who really bring characters to life, with unique voices and emotion that seems genuine, not trite. I especially enjoyed Shane East as TinMan, whose rough and raspy tone perfectly fit the character's key traits in this retelling. Though this novel was done in a full cast format, it wasn't done "duet style," so there are scenes where the narrators will read for other genders. My only nitpick on audio quality came from the narrator who voiced Cleo; at times, there was a strange, metallic quality to their audio capture, but that was only truly noticeable when wearing headphones. There were also pronounced pauses at the end of each chapter, but my guess is that those will be resolved before the final version of the audiobook is released.
I think you'll enjoy this novel if you enjoy classic retellings, fantasy with a bit of intrigue, and a core mystery that deepens as the story continues. While this story does have a few spicy scenes, they're few and far between and do not overpower the story, so if you're looking for a spice-heavy novel, this may not be up your alley. It's the type of audiobook perfect to listen to after a long week where you just want to be swept away to a new, thrilling, and sometimes foreboding land, following down a glittering road just to see where it leads. I can't wait to see what the author does with book 2!
When I was a little kid, I remember watching "The Wizard of Oz" with a strange mixture of awe and terror. From the menacing horror of the tornado to the technicolor splendor of Munnchkinland, the possibilities the movie evoked captivated my imagination for years to come.
As an adult, retellings of that classic story don't hit me with quite the same sense of wonder, but I'm always excited to see a new take on the land of Oz, especially if it subverts my expectations. Nikki St. Crowe's "West of Wicked" offered exactly that kind of unique perspective that mixed the familiar story with darker, more foreboding possibilities, and I enjoyed being whisked into the cyclone of this new and more sinister land of Oz, especially with the multi-POVs of the talented narrators.
The story begins with a twist from the very first scene; we learn immediately that Dorothy is not related by blood to "Aunt" Emma and "Uncle" Henry. Instead, she is dropped off by a woman not immediately identified in the midst of a terrible storm, and is taken in by the kindhearted couple. We also learn that the setting for this retelling takes place in somewhat "modern" times: the language is modern English, and Dorothy isn't quite as wholesome as the image from the classic novel. She has a lover, a farm boy named Edward, is frustrated by her life in what passes for Kansas, and struggles with the abandonment that's haunted her all her life. When the tornado appears to whisk her away, we learn that while the classic scene of the house falling on the Witch of the East happens, it's not ALL that happens, and sets in motion a chain of events that sends Dorothy spiraling down the Yellow Brick Road.
Along the way, she meets classic characters, many of which we recognize from the original novel and movie: the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the "cardinal witches", one for each point on a standard compass. Yet, the way the author plays with the expectations of those characters and cleverly changes their core personality traits was wildly entertaining, and it kept me guessing even as the familiar story unfolded, because this Oz is full of darkness, betrayal, and the thirst for power, all of which puts Dorothy in the crosshairs of danger. We're also introduced to new characters that add an extra layer of intrigue, including Cleo, an apprentice to the Witch of the East, and Feos, the captain of the flying monkeys. As Dorothy travels toward the Emerald City, she soon learns that she's here for a very specific purpose, hunted by a pursuer that will not stop until they catch their prize, and in the final act of the novel, a massive reveal turns the entire story on its head once again, setting us up perfectly for book two.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere, pacing, and structure of the book. When they're done well, retellings take well-loved material and turn them into something unique and enjoyable; they take elements of the source but "remix" it enough so that the new story stands on its own, with key callbacks to the original almost acting as Easter eggs. In a lot of (good) ways, it reminded me of the 80's movie "Return to Oz," with the original characters almost seeming like they'd been put through a cracked funhouse mirror.
For the most part, I thought this retelling was very successful. My imagination was piqued by the familiar "blueprints" with new, darker overtones, and the world building was solid enough so that I could easily picture this new, grittier Oz. As someone who is a huge fan of high fantasy, I appreciated the detail the author brought to the settings and characters, and while we don't have all the details on the magic system yet, we learn enough to keep us intrigued. The setup for the twists were subtle and well thought through, and even though I was able to guess most of them, I was truly surprised by the final reveal, and the ones I did guess left me satisfied instead of feeling like they were too predictable.
I experienced this novel entirely through audiobook, and the narration was a highlight for me. MacMillan (the publisher) does an incredible job at selecting narrators who really bring characters to life, with unique voices and emotion that seems genuine, not trite. I especially enjoyed Shane East as TinMan, whose rough and raspy tone perfectly fit the character's key traits in this retelling. Though this novel was done in a full cast format, it wasn't done "duet style," so there are scenes where the narrators will read for other genders. My only nitpick on audio quality came from the narrator who voiced Cleo; at times, there was a strange, metallic quality to their audio capture, but that was only truly noticeable when wearing headphones. There were also pronounced pauses at the end of each chapter, but my guess is that those will be resolved before the final version of the audiobook is released.
I think you'll enjoy this novel if you enjoy classic retellings, fantasy with a bit of intrigue, and a core mystery that deepens as the story continues. While this story does have a few spicy scenes, they're few and far between and do not overpower the story, so if you're looking for a spice-heavy novel, this may not be up your alley. It's the type of audiobook perfect to listen to after a long week where you just want to be swept away to a new, thrilling, and sometimes foreboding land, following down a glittering road just to see where it leads. I can't wait to see what the author does with book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Storm, a Secret, and a New Oz
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩷💚❤️💙
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😛
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Dual Narration
Audiobook Review: West of Wicked (The Great and Terrible Land, #1)
Author: Nikki St. Crow
Genre: Romantasy, Retelling
Narrator(s): Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, Stella Hunter
Characters and Plot
Dorothy Gale arrives at her aunt and uncle’s Kansas farmhouse during a violent summer storm, carried in the arms of a mysterious woman with blood on her face. Dorothy remembers almost nothing about the woman who left her there, only that she was told the woman would return. Even as a child she sensed that would never happen. Life on the farm becomes her anchor. There is always work to do, and work keeps her from thinking too much about the past she cannot access.
Aunt Em and Uncle Henry have their own complicated history. Henry once traveled as a busker and Emily was a painter who captured him on canvas before falling in love with him. Now the spark in them has faded, and Dorothy sees how age and hardship have worn them down. She loves them deeply, yet she keeps a careful emotional distance. Therapy has been part of her life since she was thirteen because she has always feared losing everything she cares about.
Her closest companion is Edward Gilbert from the neighboring farm. He is her best friend and romantic partner. He is kind, handsome, and steady. Dorothy appreciates his gentleness, but she longs for something more intense. She craves passion and color in a life that often feels muted. She has tried to uncover her origins with no success, and she worries that settling down with Edward will lock her into a life that never answers the questions that haunt her.
Just as she decides to give Edward an answer about their future, a powerful storm erupts. Dorothy rushes to find Toto and fight her way back to the house. What happens next changes everything.
Elsewhere, Cleo, a young woman bound to serve a powerful witch, is sent on a strange errand along the yellow brick road. She does not understand the purpose of her task until something extraordinary falls from the sky and alters the balance of power in Oz.
Highlights
• The story mirrors the Wizard of Oz in some early moments, yet the author adds fresh twists that make the world feel new.
• The men feel grounded and human rather than fantastical. The history of Oz, especially the aftermath of a devastating war, adds weight and texture to the setting.
• The Tin Man’s emotional loss and the Scarecrow’s punishment create compelling backstories that deepen their roles.
• Dorothy and Cleo share intriguing parallels. Both have missing pieces in their histories, which adds mystery and emotional tension.
Limitations
• Cleo’s purpose in the larger narrative feels unclear. Her arc has potential, but the payoff never fully arrives.
• The middle section slows down. The story seems to want more magic or whimsy to balance the darker themes. Though things really picked up at the end and the surprise reveals made me want to know what will happen next. The ending was a huge cliffhanger, most of which I never saw coming.
• The tone is not as dark as expected for a retelling. There is romance and some heat, but the overall atmosphere stays lighter than the premise suggests.
Narration
The audiobook uses multiple points of view in a dual style format performed by a full cast that includes Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, and Stella Hunter. It is an unusual combination since full cast productions are typically done in duet style. The performances are strong across the board. Connor Crais remains a standout with his deep and expressive voice. Shane East, Stella Hunter, and Samantha Brentmoor also deliver excellent work. The cast brings emotional clarity and personality to each character, even within the unconventional structure.
Final Opinion
This retelling offers an imaginative take on Oz with rich character backstories and a world shaped by conflict and control. While some pacing issues and unclear character motivations hold it back, the mysteries surrounding Dorothy and Cleo keep the story engaging. The narration is a major strength and adds depth to the experience. It is a solid choice for listeners who enjoy reimagined classics with romance, intrigue, and a touch of magic.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩷💚❤️💙
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 😋🙂😁😛
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Full Cast Dual Narration
Audiobook Review: West of Wicked (The Great and Terrible Land, #1)
Author: Nikki St. Crow
Genre: Romantasy, Retelling
Narrator(s): Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, Stella Hunter
Characters and Plot
Dorothy Gale arrives at her aunt and uncle’s Kansas farmhouse during a violent summer storm, carried in the arms of a mysterious woman with blood on her face. Dorothy remembers almost nothing about the woman who left her there, only that she was told the woman would return. Even as a child she sensed that would never happen. Life on the farm becomes her anchor. There is always work to do, and work keeps her from thinking too much about the past she cannot access.
Aunt Em and Uncle Henry have their own complicated history. Henry once traveled as a busker and Emily was a painter who captured him on canvas before falling in love with him. Now the spark in them has faded, and Dorothy sees how age and hardship have worn them down. She loves them deeply, yet she keeps a careful emotional distance. Therapy has been part of her life since she was thirteen because she has always feared losing everything she cares about.
Her closest companion is Edward Gilbert from the neighboring farm. He is her best friend and romantic partner. He is kind, handsome, and steady. Dorothy appreciates his gentleness, but she longs for something more intense. She craves passion and color in a life that often feels muted. She has tried to uncover her origins with no success, and she worries that settling down with Edward will lock her into a life that never answers the questions that haunt her.
Just as she decides to give Edward an answer about their future, a powerful storm erupts. Dorothy rushes to find Toto and fight her way back to the house. What happens next changes everything.
Elsewhere, Cleo, a young woman bound to serve a powerful witch, is sent on a strange errand along the yellow brick road. She does not understand the purpose of her task until something extraordinary falls from the sky and alters the balance of power in Oz.
Highlights
• The story mirrors the Wizard of Oz in some early moments, yet the author adds fresh twists that make the world feel new.
• The men feel grounded and human rather than fantastical. The history of Oz, especially the aftermath of a devastating war, adds weight and texture to the setting.
• The Tin Man’s emotional loss and the Scarecrow’s punishment create compelling backstories that deepen their roles.
• Dorothy and Cleo share intriguing parallels. Both have missing pieces in their histories, which adds mystery and emotional tension.
Limitations
• Cleo’s purpose in the larger narrative feels unclear. Her arc has potential, but the payoff never fully arrives.
• The middle section slows down. The story seems to want more magic or whimsy to balance the darker themes. Though things really picked up at the end and the surprise reveals made me want to know what will happen next. The ending was a huge cliffhanger, most of which I never saw coming.
• The tone is not as dark as expected for a retelling. There is romance and some heat, but the overall atmosphere stays lighter than the premise suggests.
Narration
The audiobook uses multiple points of view in a dual style format performed by a full cast that includes Amy Hall, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Samantha Brentmoor, Sean Masters, Shane East, and Stella Hunter. It is an unusual combination since full cast productions are typically done in duet style. The performances are strong across the board. Connor Crais remains a standout with his deep and expressive voice. Shane East, Stella Hunter, and Samantha Brentmoor also deliver excellent work. The cast brings emotional clarity and personality to each character, even within the unconventional structure.
Final Opinion
This retelling offers an imaginative take on Oz with rich character backstories and a world shaped by conflict and control. While some pacing issues and unclear character motivations hold it back, the mysteries surrounding Dorothy and Cleo keep the story engaging. The narration is a major strength and adds depth to the experience. It is a solid choice for listeners who enjoy reimagined classics with romance, intrigue, and a touch of magic.
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Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
**** I WON A PHYSICAL ARC OF THIS BOOK FROM A GOODREADS GIVEAWAY ***
Overall, I thought this was pretty dang good. I had quite a bit of fun with it. Definitely a page-turner. A very junk food-y book, in a good way. I ate it up. I’ll read the 2nd book in the series for sure, and I’m looking forward to it. The twists were fun. One of them I figured out early because…well, I’m good at figuring out twists and it was a little bit obvious (to me, anyway. Also, I just wanted it to be the twist because I thought I’d be cool and behold, it was). The other twist I was not expecting at all—my mouth actually dropped open—and was left open-ended with barely any explanation. Bring on book 2!
At the beginning of the book, I couldn’t quite tell what time period the book was supposed to be in, seeing as it had kind of a beat-for-beat similarities with the Wizard of Oz movie. Then there was a mention of smoking weed and I’m like, is this…now? In modern day? It was a little off-putting. Did they have weed in the Dust Bowl? Another thing that I found off-putting was that there was an unnecessary sex scene in the first 10 pages. With a character you don’t really know at all. So it’s hard to care. This book is light on sex scenes. Thankfully. They’re not very good, if I’m being honest. Especially the slapdash, shoehorned in 2nd sex scene later in the book. I didn’t really buy the “destined” love story between the FMC (Dorothy, obviously) and MMC (Rook), if I’m honest. I mean, yeah, sure, it’s fun. Something is off about the mysterious MMC and he’s kinda smarmy and lovebombing her…is he potentially sinister? Always always a vibe. But It was very insta-love, and with the MMC having amnesia (…or does he?), it was kind of hard to care that much about him in general other than wanting to find out what his deal is. There wasn’t much character development for a reason, though. That will most definitely change in the 2nd book. I’m excited to find out more about him and his backstory. And I’m sure his relationship with Dorothy will get a lot more complex and interesting in book 2. I’m actually going to do a re-read of this soon and pick up on some things about Rook that make more sense now that I’ve finished the book.
Not a lot of vital plot happened for the majority of the book, honestly. But then again, the plot was similar to The Wizard of Oz and...going off to see the Wizard is always the goal, right? Things just kind of coasted on vibes and had you wondering when things might be revealed. Overall, the way the plot moved was comfy and I enjoyed the pacing. The writing style really carried the story along at a brisk pace. At times, I found the writing to be a little staccato and not descriptive enough, but it wasn't glaring enough to make me actively annoyed. The dialogue was...average—a little weird at times, sometimes a little cringey. I never felt bored or that anything was dragging, which is really important. I liked the descriptions of the world and the side characters were interesting enough that I’d like to learn more about them. I quite enjoyed the character of the Tinman. It think he has a lot of potential to be a really well-developed character throughout the trilogy, judging from what we know so far. I also kind of hope he’s in a bit of a love triangle? Maybe? I’m excited for more lore about the Cardinal witches. And pre-Kansas Dorothy’s backstory. I’d also love more information about the character Cleo ASAP because right now she’s kind of a wildcard. But this installment really set things up to have a satisfying next book in the series with a lot of interesting reveals and probably more twists. I’m here for it.
PS. Can anyone tell me why the woman on the cover, whom I'm assuming is Dorothy, has brown eyes when the book specifically says she has blue eyes? Anyway!
Overall, I thought this was pretty dang good. I had quite a bit of fun with it. Definitely a page-turner. A very junk food-y book, in a good way. I ate it up. I’ll read the 2nd book in the series for sure, and I’m looking forward to it. The twists were fun. One of them I figured out early because…well, I’m good at figuring out twists and it was a little bit obvious (to me, anyway. Also, I just wanted it to be the twist because I thought I’d be cool and behold, it was). The other twist I was not expecting at all—my mouth actually dropped open—and was left open-ended with barely any explanation. Bring on book 2!
At the beginning of the book, I couldn’t quite tell what time period the book was supposed to be in, seeing as it had kind of a beat-for-beat similarities with the Wizard of Oz movie. Then there was a mention of smoking weed and I’m like, is this…now? In modern day? It was a little off-putting. Did they have weed in the Dust Bowl? Another thing that I found off-putting was that there was an unnecessary sex scene in the first 10 pages. With a character you don’t really know at all. So it’s hard to care. This book is light on sex scenes. Thankfully. They’re not very good, if I’m being honest. Especially the slapdash, shoehorned in 2nd sex scene later in the book. I didn’t really buy the “destined” love story between the FMC (Dorothy, obviously) and MMC (Rook), if I’m honest. I mean, yeah, sure, it’s fun. Something is off about the mysterious MMC and he’s kinda smarmy and lovebombing her…is he potentially sinister? Always always a vibe. But It was very insta-love, and with the MMC having amnesia (…or does he?), it was kind of hard to care that much about him in general other than wanting to find out what his deal is. There wasn’t much character development for a reason, though. That will most definitely change in the 2nd book. I’m excited to find out more about him and his backstory. And I’m sure his relationship with Dorothy will get a lot more complex and interesting in book 2. I’m actually going to do a re-read of this soon and pick up on some things about Rook that make more sense now that I’ve finished the book.
Not a lot of vital plot happened for the majority of the book, honestly. But then again, the plot was similar to The Wizard of Oz and...going off to see the Wizard is always the goal, right? Things just kind of coasted on vibes and had you wondering when things might be revealed. Overall, the way the plot moved was comfy and I enjoyed the pacing. The writing style really carried the story along at a brisk pace. At times, I found the writing to be a little staccato and not descriptive enough, but it wasn't glaring enough to make me actively annoyed. The dialogue was...average—a little weird at times, sometimes a little cringey. I never felt bored or that anything was dragging, which is really important. I liked the descriptions of the world and the side characters were interesting enough that I’d like to learn more about them. I quite enjoyed the character of the Tinman. It think he has a lot of potential to be a really well-developed character throughout the trilogy, judging from what we know so far. I also kind of hope he’s in a bit of a love triangle? Maybe? I’m excited for more lore about the Cardinal witches. And pre-Kansas Dorothy’s backstory. I’d also love more information about the character Cleo ASAP because right now she’s kind of a wildcard. But this installment really set things up to have a satisfying next book in the series with a lot of interesting reveals and probably more twists. I’m here for it.
PS. Can anyone tell me why the woman on the cover, whom I'm assuming is Dorothy, has brown eyes when the book specifically says she has blue eyes? Anyway!
March 11, 2026
Ok let me preface this by saying that I have never cared for the Wizard of Oz, to put it nicely. HOWEVER. I have read every single book Nikki St. Crowe has written and own one of the most beautiful Omnibus Editions of her Never King series since it is one of my favourites.
And if there is ANY author that could've get me invested in not only the story retelling but also the potential love interests, it's gotta be Nikki St. Crowe.
So of course I was going to read this!
My verdict in short: West of Wicked is an enticing book that, in true Nikki St. Crowe fashion, plays with innuendos and spicy twists that explore what well known fairytales might look like if things were a bit more... realistic.
The book builds the foundation for what undoubtedly has the potential to become a new favourite series and while the pace wasn't always for me, the story was magical and sparkly enough to keep my attention.
Nothing is as it seems and I am absolutely intrigued to find out what else these characters are hiding.
PLOT
As with any series starter, there is a lot of world building, creating foundations, setting up arcs and conflicts. Somehow, in West of Wicked, I felt like the focus on that was a bit to the detriment of the emotional connections and relationship building.
However, with the twists towards the end I wonder if that was intentional and have to acknowledge, that maaaaan they still hurt me. Despite being a bit more detached from the emotional situation than I'd wanted to be, the developments towards the end were well worth the patience
CHARACTERS
Less trying-to-teach-a-moral, less characters that are mostly two dimensional stylistic devices - the characters in West of Wicked have the sort of depth and secrets, darkness and complexity that I love to imagine for fairytale characters.
These characters allowed the plot to shape and created the framework for the above mentioned twists. They are nuanced and their actions realistically contradictory where their values and objectives collide and conflicts are more differentiated. This drove the story in a manner that felt realistically natural and chaotic, keeping me on my toes with the unpredictability that is so very human.
And yes, one of them already hurt me...
WRITING
I've always liked Nikki St. Crowe's writing style and it's no different here: Deep and significant where necessary, while generally light and incredibly comfortable to read or listen to. Particularly in the case of the latter, really.
Audiobooks truly are my favourite way to consume Nikki St. Crowe's books and this one comes, once again, with an insanely good narrator line-up.
And on top of that, there is one detail that I particularly love and appreciate: The Never King series was how I came upon Shane East who immediately became my number one favourite narrator and has held the spot since. To have him narrate one of the main characters here has made me so incredibly happy!
---
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Nikki St. Crowe for an ALC of West of Wicked
And if there is ANY author that could've get me invested in not only the story retelling but also the potential love interests, it's gotta be Nikki St. Crowe.
So of course I was going to read this!
My verdict in short: West of Wicked is an enticing book that, in true Nikki St. Crowe fashion, plays with innuendos and spicy twists that explore what well known fairytales might look like if things were a bit more... realistic.
The book builds the foundation for what undoubtedly has the potential to become a new favourite series and while the pace wasn't always for me, the story was magical and sparkly enough to keep my attention.
Nothing is as it seems and I am absolutely intrigued to find out what else these characters are hiding.
PLOT
As with any series starter, there is a lot of world building, creating foundations, setting up arcs and conflicts. Somehow, in West of Wicked, I felt like the focus on that was a bit to the detriment of the emotional connections and relationship building.
However, with the twists towards the end I wonder if that was intentional and have to acknowledge, that maaaaan they still hurt me. Despite being a bit more detached from the emotional situation than I'd wanted to be, the developments towards the end were well worth the patience
CHARACTERS
Less trying-to-teach-a-moral, less characters that are mostly two dimensional stylistic devices - the characters in West of Wicked have the sort of depth and secrets, darkness and complexity that I love to imagine for fairytale characters.
These characters allowed the plot to shape and created the framework for the above mentioned twists. They are nuanced and their actions realistically contradictory where their values and objectives collide and conflicts are more differentiated. This drove the story in a manner that felt realistically natural and chaotic, keeping me on my toes with the unpredictability that is so very human.
And yes, one of them already hurt me...
WRITING
I've always liked Nikki St. Crowe's writing style and it's no different here: Deep and significant where necessary, while generally light and incredibly comfortable to read or listen to. Particularly in the case of the latter, really.
Audiobooks truly are my favourite way to consume Nikki St. Crowe's books and this one comes, once again, with an insanely good narrator line-up.
And on top of that, there is one detail that I particularly love and appreciate: The Never King series was how I came upon Shane East who immediately became my number one favourite narrator and has held the spot since. To have him narrate one of the main characters here has made me so incredibly happy!
---
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Nikki St. Crowe for an ALC of West of Wicked
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
West of Wicked by Nikki St. Crowe
(ARC provided by NetGalley for review)
Nikki St. Crowe takes the bones of a childhood classic and sharpens them into something dark, dangerous, and deliciously twisted in West of Wicked. This is not the bright, hopeful yellow-brick-road tale you remember. This Oz is shadowed, cursed, and pulsing with morally gray tension—and I loved every wicked step of it.
Dorothy Gale has no memory of where she came from. Kansas is gray, flat, and emotionally barren—until a cyclone rips her world apart and drops her somewhere far more treacherous than she ever imagined. The land she lands in isn’t whimsical. It’s cursed. The magic feels feral. The path to the wizard is lined with beasts, witches, betrayal… and a mercenary who might be more dangerous than any monster in the forest.
St. Crowe leans fully into her signature style: dark romance, high heat, morally questionable men, and heroines discovering the power that’s been simmering inside them all along. The romance flips the traditional Oz narrative on its head—the villain gets the girl… but make no mistake, the girl gets the power. And that power is hard-earned.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrators did a fantastic job. The alternating POV narration really elevated the tension and deepened the emotional pull between characters. Each voice felt distinct and added layers to the story, especially in those morally gray moments where you’re not quite sure who to trust. The dual narration made the simmering chemistry and internal conflict hit even harder.
As for the plot twist—while I did see it coming, it was still interesting enough to keep me fully engaged. Sometimes predictability can dull the impact, but here it felt more like a slow, satisfying unraveling. Even knowing where it might lead, I still wanted to see how it would play out. And that ending? Strong enough that I’ll absolutely be picking up the next book in the series.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere. The world feels claustrophobic and tense, almost predatory. There’s a constant sense that something is watching, waiting. The stakes feel intimate rather than epic fantasy-wide, which makes every interaction crackle. Dorothy’s evolution from uncertain girl to someone stepping into her own strength is satisfying, especially as she begins to question who the real villain truly is.
Perfect for readers who love:
* Twisted fairytale retellings
* Villain romance
* Dark, sensual fantasy worlds
* Alternating POV audiobooks
* Power reclamation arcs
Nikki St. Crowe proves once again she’s not here to retell stories softly—she’s here to reclaim them. And Oz has never looked so wicked.
Nikki St. Crowe takes the bones of a childhood classic and sharpens them into something dark, dangerous, and deliciously twisted in West of Wicked. This is not the bright, hopeful yellow-brick-road tale you remember. This Oz is shadowed, cursed, and pulsing with morally gray tension—and I loved every wicked step of it.
Dorothy Gale has no memory of where she came from. Kansas is gray, flat, and emotionally barren—until a cyclone rips her world apart and drops her somewhere far more treacherous than she ever imagined. The land she lands in isn’t whimsical. It’s cursed. The magic feels feral. The path to the wizard is lined with beasts, witches, betrayal… and a mercenary who might be more dangerous than any monster in the forest.
St. Crowe leans fully into her signature style: dark romance, high heat, morally questionable men, and heroines discovering the power that’s been simmering inside them all along. The romance flips the traditional Oz narrative on its head—the villain gets the girl… but make no mistake, the girl gets the power. And that power is hard-earned.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrators did a fantastic job. The alternating POV narration really elevated the tension and deepened the emotional pull between characters. Each voice felt distinct and added layers to the story, especially in those morally gray moments where you’re not quite sure who to trust. The dual narration made the simmering chemistry and internal conflict hit even harder.
As for the plot twist—while I did see it coming, it was still interesting enough to keep me fully engaged. Sometimes predictability can dull the impact, but here it felt more like a slow, satisfying unraveling. Even knowing where it might lead, I still wanted to see how it would play out. And that ending? Strong enough that I’ll absolutely be picking up the next book in the series.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere. The world feels claustrophobic and tense, almost predatory. There’s a constant sense that something is watching, waiting. The stakes feel intimate rather than epic fantasy-wide, which makes every interaction crackle. Dorothy’s evolution from uncertain girl to someone stepping into her own strength is satisfying, especially as she begins to question who the real villain truly is.
Perfect for readers who love:
* Twisted fairytale retellings
* Villain romance
* Dark, sensual fantasy worlds
* Alternating POV audiobooks
* Power reclamation arcs
Nikki St. Crowe proves once again she’s not here to retell stories softly—she’s here to reclaim them. And Oz has never looked so wicked.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Not at all what I expected
**ARC READ**
3.5⭐️
2/5🌶️
Multi POV
Both first person & third person POV
Book 1 in a new series
Format: ALC
Spoiler free
A great & powerful thanks to NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for gifting me this Advanced Listening Copy. Who doesn’t love an Oz retelling??
Once upon a time I attempted to get into Nikki’s books but ultimately they were all too dark for me. So when I saw this, I thought it doesn’t sound like her usual dark material so let me try again. & I stand corrected. This is a bit unlike her usual style which is interesting to me to see her trying something… less intense. But, I’m gonna take a guess & say that this series will probably become darker as it moves forward.
When I saw the STACKED cast for the audiobook, I knew I must audio read it instead because not only does this have my all time favorite narrator (Stella!) but also so many other narrating greats & they all brought their A game. What wonderful narration from each & every individual. They really put some life into the book because…..
in all honesty, this is just an ok read for me. In the end, I did not connect with Dorothy or a single other character except maybe Toto😂🤣 With such a stunning cover (BTW how is that supposed to be Dorothy?!) & an alluring synopsis, I expected more. Just more something something in general but overall it all fell a bit flat.
It’s short (like 320 ish pages) with very simplistic & easy to digest writing & it’s fast paced. I did enjoy how it opens very familiarly & the plot unfolds neatly & exactly like the source material but then the plot gets flipped on its head haha; nothing became convoluted. I enjoyed how all of the classic details were tweaked to fit this fresh fantasy premise.
The FMC has an appealing, dry sense of humor & didn’t get on my nerves😅The underlying mystery of who Dorothy really is adds a fresh new layer to the story we know. I also enjoyed the way the side characters were all both a bit loyal to the original work but also each had their own individuality.
What really strikes me is the stylistic choice the author went with by having specific characters told from first person POV & others in third person POV. But I’m not totally sure what that adds to the narrative. Also, the 2 spice scenes were so poorly placed within the plot that it’s giving whiplash; plus, the spice was plain cringe & boring, it could have been left out. The plot twists were oh so predictable. But, that ending has me veeeerrryyy intrigued.
Also, knowing Nikki, I’m so curious to find out if this ends up becoming a RH/WC because I have a feeling this may just be going down that yellowbrick road😏😏
**Releases 04/14/2026**
**ARC READ**
3.5⭐️
2/5🌶️
Multi POV
Both first person & third person POV
Book 1 in a new series
Format: ALC
Spoiler free
A great & powerful thanks to NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for gifting me this Advanced Listening Copy. Who doesn’t love an Oz retelling??
Once upon a time I attempted to get into Nikki’s books but ultimately they were all too dark for me. So when I saw this, I thought it doesn’t sound like her usual dark material so let me try again. & I stand corrected. This is a bit unlike her usual style which is interesting to me to see her trying something… less intense. But, I’m gonna take a guess & say that this series will probably become darker as it moves forward.
When I saw the STACKED cast for the audiobook, I knew I must audio read it instead because not only does this have my all time favorite narrator (Stella!) but also so many other narrating greats & they all brought their A game. What wonderful narration from each & every individual. They really put some life into the book because…..
in all honesty, this is just an ok read for me. In the end, I did not connect with Dorothy or a single other character except maybe Toto😂🤣 With such a stunning cover (BTW how is that supposed to be Dorothy?!) & an alluring synopsis, I expected more. Just more something something in general but overall it all fell a bit flat.
It’s short (like 320 ish pages) with very simplistic & easy to digest writing & it’s fast paced. I did enjoy how it opens very familiarly & the plot unfolds neatly & exactly like the source material but then the plot gets flipped on its head haha; nothing became convoluted. I enjoyed how all of the classic details were tweaked to fit this fresh fantasy premise.
The FMC has an appealing, dry sense of humor & didn’t get on my nerves😅The underlying mystery of who Dorothy really is adds a fresh new layer to the story we know. I also enjoyed the way the side characters were all both a bit loyal to the original work but also each had their own individuality.
What really strikes me is the stylistic choice the author went with by having specific characters told from first person POV & others in third person POV. But I’m not totally sure what that adds to the narrative. Also, the 2 spice scenes were so poorly placed within the plot that it’s giving whiplash; plus, the spice was plain cringe & boring, it could have been left out. The plot twists were oh so predictable. But, that ending has me veeeerrryyy intrigued.
Also, knowing Nikki, I’m so curious to find out if this ends up becoming a RH/WC because I have a feeling this may just be going down that yellowbrick road😏😏
**Releases 04/14/2026**
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dorothy was left with on a doorstep with two strangers, by some one begging to care for her. As days , weeks, and months pass; it becomes clear that the stranger who left this small child with two strangers on a Kansas farm, was not returning. As she grows, Dorothy only has vague memories of her life before arriving on the farm. Dorothy remains on the farm through her childhood and teenage years. Now grown into a woman, she wants more than her life on the farm, but does not dare leave the people who have shown her so much love and kindness.
One night , a cyclone tears through the night, carrying her, Toto, and the farmhouse to a land that does not look like Kansas. When it does land , it wasn't in an uninhabited field , it was right on a witch, who is not happy to have a house thrown on her. After facing down her first witch, she very clearly realizes she's not in Kansas anymore. She's advised to seek out a Wizard, and to get there she must follow the yellow brick road.
On her journey to the Wizard she remains clouded in darkness, lit just by lamp posts, where she continues to run into more dangers than she could ever imagine. She meets friends along the way, and foes that would like to see her captured.
This reimaging of the beloved world of Oz had just the right amount of nostalgia without feeling like the same childhood story. This new Oz feels dark, gritty, and mysterious. Our main cast of characters may feel like you've met them before, but they are grown and much more raw than the ones you think you know.
Readers may pick up on some of the twists to come, but you will still be left surprised with others. The plot moves along at a steady pace with out having any unintentional fluff or filler scenes. Everything feels like it has reason, every conversation, every plot point, every small moment. Some small little bits of information are dropped through the story , that build together to bring upon twists and turns.
Although this is a retelling of a childhood story, THIS IS NOT A BOOK FOR CHILDREN. This is very much a dark and spicy retelling. Dorothy is not a young girl and is a grown woman, and her thoughts and actions reflect that.
The ending will have you want to reach for book two immediately, and I for one , can not wait to see what happens next.
One night , a cyclone tears through the night, carrying her, Toto, and the farmhouse to a land that does not look like Kansas. When it does land , it wasn't in an uninhabited field , it was right on a witch, who is not happy to have a house thrown on her. After facing down her first witch, she very clearly realizes she's not in Kansas anymore. She's advised to seek out a Wizard, and to get there she must follow the yellow brick road.
On her journey to the Wizard she remains clouded in darkness, lit just by lamp posts, where she continues to run into more dangers than she could ever imagine. She meets friends along the way, and foes that would like to see her captured.
This reimaging of the beloved world of Oz had just the right amount of nostalgia without feeling like the same childhood story. This new Oz feels dark, gritty, and mysterious. Our main cast of characters may feel like you've met them before, but they are grown and much more raw than the ones you think you know.
Readers may pick up on some of the twists to come, but you will still be left surprised with others. The plot moves along at a steady pace with out having any unintentional fluff or filler scenes. Everything feels like it has reason, every conversation, every plot point, every small moment. Some small little bits of information are dropped through the story , that build together to bring upon twists and turns.
Although this is a retelling of a childhood story, THIS IS NOT A BOOK FOR CHILDREN. This is very much a dark and spicy retelling. Dorothy is not a young girl and is a grown woman, and her thoughts and actions reflect that.
The ending will have you want to reach for book two immediately, and I for one , can not wait to see what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 ALC Review: West of Wicked (The Great and Terrible Land #1)
Author: Nikki St. Crowe
Narration: Full Cast Dual Narration
Narrators: Stella Hunter, Samantha Brentmoor, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Shane East, Amy Hall, Sean Masters
This dark romantasy retelling of The Wizard of Oz completely surprised me—in the best way. Nikki St. Crowe takes the familiar bones of Oz and twists them into something eerie, dangerous, and far more adult. The Yellow Brick Road is no longer whimsical; it’s unsettling, unpredictable, and filled with secrets waiting to unravel.
Dorothy Gale has lived most of her life without memories of where she came from. When another storm drops her into the cursed land of Oz, she sets off along the Yellow Brick Road searching for answers—and possibly a way home. What she finds instead is a brutal world shaped by war, power struggles, and morally gray characters whose loyalties are anything but clear.
The audiobook production is truly the standout here. This is a full-cast dual narration, which isn’t something you see very often, and it works incredibly well. Each narrator brings a distinct voice and emotional depth to their character, making the story feel cinematic and immersive. Connor Crais is always a favorite, and he absolutely delivers here, but the entire cast—Stella Hunter, Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East, Amy Hall, Ellie Gossage, and Sean Masters—adds layers of tension, personality, and atmosphere to the world.
The story itself leans heavily into world-building and setup, which makes sense for a first book in a series. We meet reimagined versions of familiar characters, including a Tin Man who nearly steals every scene he’s in. The tone is darker than the original Oz tale but still carries that sense of adventure and discovery as Dorothy navigates shifting alliances and hidden agendas.
And then there’s that ending.
The final twist completely blindsided me and turns the entire story on its head. It’s the kind of cliffhanger that immediately makes you want the next book in your hands.
If you enjoy dark fairytale retellings, morally gray characters, and immersive audiobook productions, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Huge thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
Tropes:
🌪️ Wizard of Oz retelling
🖤 Morally gray characters
🧠 Hidden identities
🗺️ Quest / road journey
🤝 Found companions
💔 Secrets and hidden pasts
🎧 ALC Review: West of Wicked (The Great and Terrible Land #1)
Author: Nikki St. Crowe
Narration: Full Cast Dual Narration
Narrators: Stella Hunter, Samantha Brentmoor, Connor Crais, Ellie Gossage, Shane East, Amy Hall, Sean Masters
This dark romantasy retelling of The Wizard of Oz completely surprised me—in the best way. Nikki St. Crowe takes the familiar bones of Oz and twists them into something eerie, dangerous, and far more adult. The Yellow Brick Road is no longer whimsical; it’s unsettling, unpredictable, and filled with secrets waiting to unravel.
Dorothy Gale has lived most of her life without memories of where she came from. When another storm drops her into the cursed land of Oz, she sets off along the Yellow Brick Road searching for answers—and possibly a way home. What she finds instead is a brutal world shaped by war, power struggles, and morally gray characters whose loyalties are anything but clear.
The audiobook production is truly the standout here. This is a full-cast dual narration, which isn’t something you see very often, and it works incredibly well. Each narrator brings a distinct voice and emotional depth to their character, making the story feel cinematic and immersive. Connor Crais is always a favorite, and he absolutely delivers here, but the entire cast—Stella Hunter, Samantha Brentmoor, Shane East, Amy Hall, Ellie Gossage, and Sean Masters—adds layers of tension, personality, and atmosphere to the world.
The story itself leans heavily into world-building and setup, which makes sense for a first book in a series. We meet reimagined versions of familiar characters, including a Tin Man who nearly steals every scene he’s in. The tone is darker than the original Oz tale but still carries that sense of adventure and discovery as Dorothy navigates shifting alliances and hidden agendas.
And then there’s that ending.
The final twist completely blindsided me and turns the entire story on its head. It’s the kind of cliffhanger that immediately makes you want the next book in your hands.
If you enjoy dark fairytale retellings, morally gray characters, and immersive audiobook productions, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Huge thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
Tropes:
🌪️ Wizard of Oz retelling
🖤 Morally gray characters
🧠 Hidden identities
🗺️ Quest / road journey
🤝 Found companions
💔 Secrets and hidden pasts
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio, and Tor Publishing for the e-ALC and e-ARC of West of Wicked!
Dorothy Gale was left to be raised on her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry's farm in Kansas with no memory of what her life was before being dropped on their doorstep on the age of five. She just knows that there has to be more out there for her, and that's confirmed when a glittering tornado takes her, Toto, and her aunt and uncle's house and drops it in the cursed land of Oz. Desperate to find her way home to Em and Henry, Dorothy listens to the Witch of the North on following the Yellow Brick Road to find the Wizard of Oz to help her. On the way, she befriends a man she mistook for a Scarecrow and calls him Rook-- feeling close to him as he also has no memory and isn't familiar with where they are either. As they journey through Oz, Dorothy learns more about the curse, the witches, and the Tinman. A quest to find home quickly becomes a quest to just stay alive, but the question is who wants Dorothy dead, and what makes her so special?
Nikki St. Crowe's dark and twisty take on the Wizard of Oz has a lot more twists than I anticipated! From reading some of Nikki's previous works, I know that she likes to leave things vague to reveal them in a later novel but in West of Wicked it seemed almost like too much was left out and too much was happening. It was hard to follow the story of the witches and where all of these characters truly came into play. I wish that at least one plot point was gone into more depth in this book because everything felt kind of surface level. I had a hard time feeling any chemistry between Rook and Dorothy, and the romance felt kind of forced. Overall, it was an easy/listen and read and I will continue after that ending, but I was hoping for a little more oomph.
Dorothy Gale was left to be raised on her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry's farm in Kansas with no memory of what her life was before being dropped on their doorstep on the age of five. She just knows that there has to be more out there for her, and that's confirmed when a glittering tornado takes her, Toto, and her aunt and uncle's house and drops it in the cursed land of Oz. Desperate to find her way home to Em and Henry, Dorothy listens to the Witch of the North on following the Yellow Brick Road to find the Wizard of Oz to help her. On the way, she befriends a man she mistook for a Scarecrow and calls him Rook-- feeling close to him as he also has no memory and isn't familiar with where they are either. As they journey through Oz, Dorothy learns more about the curse, the witches, and the Tinman. A quest to find home quickly becomes a quest to just stay alive, but the question is who wants Dorothy dead, and what makes her so special?
Nikki St. Crowe's dark and twisty take on the Wizard of Oz has a lot more twists than I anticipated! From reading some of Nikki's previous works, I know that she likes to leave things vague to reveal them in a later novel but in West of Wicked it seemed almost like too much was left out and too much was happening. It was hard to follow the story of the witches and where all of these characters truly came into play. I wish that at least one plot point was gone into more depth in this book because everything felt kind of surface level. I had a hard time feeling any chemistry between Rook and Dorothy, and the romance felt kind of forced. Overall, it was an easy/listen and read and I will continue after that ending, but I was hoping for a little more oomph.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🌪️🌪️🌪️🏚️🏚️🏚️
It's been a while since I read something considered dark romantasy but I couldn't resist the cover art, and I've never been able to make it to the end of a Wizard of Oz retelling before. When I first began this audiobook, I thought this would be another one on the DNF stack because Dorothy felt flat and there's what amounts to a gratuitous sex scene way too early on. 🙄 But I decided I wanted to see this gritty take on Oz so I hung in there. I thought the settings, development, and the small touches that any fan will recognize were intriguing, but the twists on the characters were what held my attention.😌
🧙🏻♀️🪄🪄🧙🏻♀️🪄🪄
Dorothy Gale is an adult in this version. She lands in war-torn Oz following a tornado. Oz is cast under a perpetual shadow and treachery lies everywhere. She wants to go home, but no one can help her, so she heads to see the wizard. There's danger everywhere, but she has her trusty dog by her side that strikes fear into many. The stakes are high. Who can she trust?
🐶🪽🐒🐒🐒🪽
This is only the first book the story is very much in progress. I would've kept reading past the ending because the twists in this were jaw dropping. Some mystery/thrillers don't drop twists of this caliber so that had me riveted.
💚💛💚💛💚💛
There is full cast narration that worked for these characters. The Tin Man character as a mercenary was acted in amazing fashion and the author's take on his many facets was memorable.
🎭🎭🎭🎭🎭
I want to know how things shake out for these dark renderings of classic characters so, I plan to check out book 2 when it becomes available.
👁️👁️👁️👁️
3.5 rounded up
⚠️⚠️Trigger Warnings⚠️⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
addiction
drug use on page
blood
violence
graphic sex
bullying
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for providing an ALC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's been a while since I read something considered dark romantasy but I couldn't resist the cover art, and I've never been able to make it to the end of a Wizard of Oz retelling before. When I first began this audiobook, I thought this would be another one on the DNF stack because Dorothy felt flat and there's what amounts to a gratuitous sex scene way too early on. 🙄 But I decided I wanted to see this gritty take on Oz so I hung in there. I thought the settings, development, and the small touches that any fan will recognize were intriguing, but the twists on the characters were what held my attention.😌
🧙🏻♀️🪄🪄🧙🏻♀️🪄🪄
Dorothy Gale is an adult in this version. She lands in war-torn Oz following a tornado. Oz is cast under a perpetual shadow and treachery lies everywhere. She wants to go home, but no one can help her, so she heads to see the wizard. There's danger everywhere, but she has her trusty dog by her side that strikes fear into many. The stakes are high. Who can she trust?
🐶🪽🐒🐒🐒🪽
This is only the first book the story is very much in progress. I would've kept reading past the ending because the twists in this were jaw dropping. Some mystery/thrillers don't drop twists of this caliber so that had me riveted.
💚💛💚💛💚💛
There is full cast narration that worked for these characters. The Tin Man character as a mercenary was acted in amazing fashion and the author's take on his many facets was memorable.
🎭🎭🎭🎭🎭
I want to know how things shake out for these dark renderings of classic characters so, I plan to check out book 2 when it becomes available.
👁️👁️👁️👁️
3.5 rounded up
⚠️⚠️Trigger Warnings⚠️⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
addiction
drug use on page
blood
violence
graphic sex
bullying
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for providing an ALC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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