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Fated to the Wicked King
Fated to the Wicked King is a sizzling enemies-to-lovers steamy portal fantasy romance steampunk fairytale reimagining of 'Alice Through the Looking Glass' and 'Cinderella.' Perfect for fans of The Iron Wyrm Affair, Shield of Sparrows, and Quicksilver.
Can she redeem the man she used to love? Or is she fated to ruin with the world he burns?
Once upon a time, Allie saved the life of a most notorious assassin. How was she supposed to know he was the rightful heir to the most powerful throne in the land too?
If only she hadn't fallen for him. If only he hadn't abandoned her nearly a year ago without a single word.
Because the man she once knew is now the most feared and ruthless ruler of all kingdoms. Corrupted by the power of his crown, he has turned his back on his past.
With her heart still bound to his, she is forced into an uneasy alliance with the one man she should never trust again. Compelled to abet his tyranny. Even if it means crushing all who defy him.
Displaced from her own world, Allie has enough problems. For her forgotten past now threatens her existence. And only the Wicked King holds the key to finding her way home.
Can Allie resist the sizzling attraction that still exists between them? Is the Wicked King's soul too far gone or can Allie restore his heart before he destroys them all?
FATED TO THE WICKED KING is one of nine books in the Fated to the Enemy series, a set of steamy romantasy standalones, brimming with epic adventure, sizzling banter, and angsty yearning between enemies who have no desire to fall in love.
Can she redeem the man she used to love? Or is she fated to ruin with the world he burns?
Once upon a time, Allie saved the life of a most notorious assassin. How was she supposed to know he was the rightful heir to the most powerful throne in the land too?
If only she hadn't fallen for him. If only he hadn't abandoned her nearly a year ago without a single word.
Because the man she once knew is now the most feared and ruthless ruler of all kingdoms. Corrupted by the power of his crown, he has turned his back on his past.
With her heart still bound to his, she is forced into an uneasy alliance with the one man she should never trust again. Compelled to abet his tyranny. Even if it means crushing all who defy him.
Displaced from her own world, Allie has enough problems. For her forgotten past now threatens her existence. And only the Wicked King holds the key to finding her way home.
Can Allie resist the sizzling attraction that still exists between them? Is the Wicked King's soul too far gone or can Allie restore his heart before he destroys them all?
FATED TO THE WICKED KING is one of nine books in the Fated to the Enemy series, a set of steamy romantasy standalones, brimming with epic adventure, sizzling banter, and angsty yearning between enemies who have no desire to fall in love.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2026
About the author
S.L. Breaker
2 books30 followersS. R. Breaker (writing spicy romantasy as S. L. Breaker) lives in New Zealand with her husband and two kids. She writes non-stop action adventure, offbeat science fiction and fantasy books.
Suburban mum by day and author by night, she loves to live vicariously through her characters. They don’t have to vacuum all day long and are almost always guaranteed to survive any fantastical or thrilling incidents, no matter how treacherous she writes them.
Sign up to her mailing list for book news https://breakerworlds.com
Suburban mum by day and author by night, she loves to live vicariously through her characters. They don’t have to vacuum all day long and are almost always guaranteed to survive any fantastical or thrilling incidents, no matter how treacherous she writes them.
Sign up to her mailing list for book news https://breakerworlds.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
September 7, 2026
2.5🌟
In many ways, I actually enjoyed this more than Trapped by Clocks and Hearts, especially getting Allie’s perspective this time around after the first book was male POV—though dual POV is always my ultimate preference. The magic system and Wünder land world continue to be super interesting, though reading the first book is definitely essential for context. Up until the very end, the premise and adaptation were sitting at a solid 4 stars for me! However, it felt a little like a bully-romance dynamic early on, which wasn't entirely my style, and the ending in the final 3% left me slightly confused. It's an intriguing universe, but the resolution just didn't quite feel right to me.
In many ways, I actually enjoyed this more than Trapped by Clocks and Hearts, especially getting Allie’s perspective this time around after the first book was male POV—though dual POV is always my ultimate preference. The magic system and Wünder land world continue to be super interesting, though reading the first book is definitely essential for context. Up until the very end, the premise and adaptation were sitting at a solid 4 stars for me! However, it felt a little like a bully-romance dynamic early on, which wasn't entirely my style, and the ending in the final 3% left me slightly confused. It's an intriguing universe, but the resolution just didn't quite feel right to me.
September 29, 2026
OMG!!! Fated to the Wicked King is a continuation of Allie and Rabb's story from Trapped by Clocks and Hearts. This time we get something completely different in Wunder, Rabb is now the Wicked King with a mind for revenge. I love that we get Allie's POV and her determination to find a way home, but also to help the people of Wunder from his tyranny. So much has changed since Rabb became King, even though he pretends he doesn't care, he is always trying to protect her. Their story gets more intriguing when they work together to figure out what is really happening in Wunder, and slowly open up to each other again. I love seeing Chez and Duchess again, but also how hilarious they are when they interact with Allie and Rabb. I also love that they help them and have stuck by them through their adventures. Once they find out who the real enemy is, we see all the sacrifice and heartbreak they went through, but also get a glimpse of the true Allie before she came to Wunder. Their story really gave me all the feels, and that unexpected ending?!? Please tell me there is more. I really enjoyed their story and can't wait to read more.
I voluntarily leave my honest thoughts about this gifted advance reader copy
I voluntarily leave my honest thoughts about this gifted advance reader copy
September 16, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I was lucky enough to get this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I was not disappointed at all. I loved the first book, and I do believe that this could be read as a standalone in the whole "Fated to the enemy" universe. This is an Alice in Wonderland retelling, plus many other ones I already forgot which are written in the description of this book.
HOWEVER, I do believe that it is crucial to read the first book "Trapped by clocks and hearts" to have a better understanding of the character's relationship and the world building. I think it 100% changes the way you get into the story, as nobody understands why Rabb is now the Wicked King and behaves a certain way. My curiosity was peaked since he was so different from the first book, and I liked the change of POV.
If you didn't read the first book, you get a short introduction to both main characters, but you can't really notice the clever details/flashbacks of the book that make it that much more interesting; plus, I do believe that it makes Rabb look like an overly-sexual character, almost sex-predator like, and Allie just looks like every small and petite FMC who can't resist the hot and mysterious morally gray character, which she isn't.
The character dynamic was good, I didn't really get the second "smut" scene as I believe it was out of character even though we later understand why it happened. This was a great "second-chance" romance, I absolutely loved the character development we got for Allie and the intricate detailing of the "curse" on Wünder. The world building was great and I didn't really notice inconsistencies throughout the book.
Overall, this was a great and fun read and I definitely recommend!
I was lucky enough to get this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I was not disappointed at all. I loved the first book, and I do believe that this could be read as a standalone in the whole "Fated to the enemy" universe. This is an Alice in Wonderland retelling, plus many other ones I already forgot which are written in the description of this book.
HOWEVER, I do believe that it is crucial to read the first book "Trapped by clocks and hearts" to have a better understanding of the character's relationship and the world building. I think it 100% changes the way you get into the story, as nobody understands why Rabb is now the Wicked King and behaves a certain way. My curiosity was peaked since he was so different from the first book, and I liked the change of POV.
If you didn't read the first book, you get a short introduction to both main characters, but you can't really notice the clever details/flashbacks of the book that make it that much more interesting; plus, I do believe that it makes Rabb look like an overly-sexual character, almost sex-predator like, and Allie just looks like every small and petite FMC who can't resist the hot and mysterious morally gray character, which she isn't.
The character dynamic was good, I didn't really get the second "smut" scene as I believe it was out of character even though we later understand why it happened. This was a great "second-chance" romance, I absolutely loved the character development we got for Allie and the intricate detailing of the "curse" on Wünder. The world building was great and I didn't really notice inconsistencies throughout the book.
Overall, this was a great and fun read and I definitely recommend!
September 5, 2026
Thank you for sending me an ARC!
I‘m a big fan of second chance romances so I really enjoyed the romance part of the story. The steampunk aesthetic was something I haven’t encountered often before and it felt well integrated into the whimsy nature of an Alice in Wonderland setting. The characters felt lovable for the most part, one of my favourites has got to be Chez the Cheshire Cat.
There are some things I would criticise however. Rabb‘s magic felt pretty overpowered and it felt like overall there were very little consequences for his negative actions, especially with the way the book ended. The first intimate scene made me feel a little iffy, as it was very one-sided and considering they were broken up and hadn‘t seen each other for a year, I would‘ve preferred some clearer consent.
I‘m a big fan of second chance romances so I really enjoyed the romance part of the story. The steampunk aesthetic was something I haven’t encountered often before and it felt well integrated into the whimsy nature of an Alice in Wonderland setting. The characters felt lovable for the most part, one of my favourites has got to be Chez the Cheshire Cat.
There are some things I would criticise however. Rabb‘s magic felt pretty overpowered and it felt like overall there were very little consequences for his negative actions, especially with the way the book ended. The first intimate scene made me feel a little iffy, as it was very one-sided and considering they were broken up and hadn‘t seen each other for a year, I would‘ve preferred some clearer consent.
October 4, 2026
I should preface by saying I didn’t read book 1. It was good, I enjoyed the scientific/engineer side of things. I’d say it was quaint, but maybe a little predictable? Took me longer than I thought it might and I think it was due to some dryer eh parts? All in all a good read if you’re looking for a different tale but follows normal tropes and plot lines.
Read
August 29, 2026✨ADVANCED READER COPY FROM NETGALLEY✨
Fated to the Wicked King was a fantastic new take on the Alice in Wonderland story and I appreciated seeing Wonderland-inspired aspects reworked as something darker and more romantic while yet feeling like a standalone story.
The world was one of my favourite aspects. There was this whimsical yet menacing ambiance that gave me classic Wonderland vibes while also giving a completely new fantastical twist. I enjoyed learning the many elements of the world and watching how everything fit together as the story progressed.
However, the pacing and plot are too fast and sometimes confusing, and I became confused about the interaction between the two main characters. There are lots of information crammed into the narrative and interlaced with the characters' relationships for both past and the present. I cant tell more without spoiling the story, but this book isnt for me. I got bored at 30% and then i just skimmed through it just to finish the book..
Fated to the Wicked King was a fantastic new take on the Alice in Wonderland story and I appreciated seeing Wonderland-inspired aspects reworked as something darker and more romantic while yet feeling like a standalone story.
The world was one of my favourite aspects. There was this whimsical yet menacing ambiance that gave me classic Wonderland vibes while also giving a completely new fantastical twist. I enjoyed learning the many elements of the world and watching how everything fit together as the story progressed.
However, the pacing and plot are too fast and sometimes confusing, and I became confused about the interaction between the two main characters. There are lots of information crammed into the narrative and interlaced with the characters' relationships for both past and the present. I cant tell more without spoiling the story, but this book isnt for me. I got bored at 30% and then i just skimmed through it just to finish the book..
September 19, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐
2.5-3/5 🌶
This book starts months after the end of the prequel ended. Allie is now basically alone & trying to build a machine to take her home. She is summoned to the palace for a ball, which turns out to be a trap for others who are trying to assassinate the new & seemingly devolved King Rabb. He has turned cold, unfeeling, & is perceived as evil & ruthless. Allie does not see him as the same man that he was before he became king, & she makes it 100% known 😂 (love her). Rabb figures out that she is able to 'feel' other's intentions essentially when she decided to throw her boot at his stupid face to thwart an assassination attempt at this ball. Rabb then basically takes her captive to suss out others who have harmful intentions toward him.
Allie still has feelings for Rabb but she understands that he is not the same man he once was, she is upset about it, but doesn't use her feelings to justify the 'evil' ruler he turned into. Something crazy is happening to the land & it seems to be destroying itself, so her & Rabb start off to figure it out.
Rabb, seemingly an unfeeling, cold, ruthless, evil ruler, takes Allie as captive so he can use the little bit of magic left in her (actually his) heart to help him find other people who mean him harm. He is also trying to figure out what is happening in his kingdom. After getting all of his memories back, he essentially eradicates the people responsible for the Queen of Hearts ability to overthrow his family.
The banter is good, the plot is really good, & the timeline for the romance to start again is great. It is another slow burn but more of a 'we are re-building what we had', but not on purpose. I loved the open ending, anything could happen. It is somewhat of a cliffhanger but I felt more excited for the possible outcomes than upset that the book ended the way it did. I also really like that the end of the book wasn't the typical MC decides to sacrifice their self to save others & then something miraculous happens & so now they won't sacrifice themselves & everyone lived happily ever after......sacrifice (not necessarily death) actually happened.
This is my honest review & I'm leaving it voluntarily. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC this.
2.5-3/5 🌶
This book starts months after the end of the prequel ended. Allie is now basically alone & trying to build a machine to take her home. She is summoned to the palace for a ball, which turns out to be a trap for others who are trying to assassinate the new & seemingly devolved King Rabb. He has turned cold, unfeeling, & is perceived as evil & ruthless. Allie does not see him as the same man that he was before he became king, & she makes it 100% known 😂 (love her). Rabb figures out that she is able to 'feel' other's intentions essentially when she decided to throw her boot at his stupid face to thwart an assassination attempt at this ball. Rabb then basically takes her captive to suss out others who have harmful intentions toward him.
Allie still has feelings for Rabb but she understands that he is not the same man he once was, she is upset about it, but doesn't use her feelings to justify the 'evil' ruler he turned into. Something crazy is happening to the land & it seems to be destroying itself, so her & Rabb start off to figure it out.
Rabb, seemingly an unfeeling, cold, ruthless, evil ruler, takes Allie as captive so he can use the little bit of magic left in her (actually his) heart to help him find other people who mean him harm. He is also trying to figure out what is happening in his kingdom. After getting all of his memories back, he essentially eradicates the people responsible for the Queen of Hearts ability to overthrow his family.
The banter is good, the plot is really good, & the timeline for the romance to start again is great. It is another slow burn but more of a 'we are re-building what we had', but not on purpose. I loved the open ending, anything could happen. It is somewhat of a cliffhanger but I felt more excited for the possible outcomes than upset that the book ended the way it did. I also really like that the end of the book wasn't the typical MC decides to sacrifice their self to save others & then something miraculous happens & so now they won't sacrifice themselves & everyone lived happily ever after......sacrifice (not necessarily death) actually happened.
This is my honest review & I'm leaving it voluntarily. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2026
Going into this book, I was thinking: for what was marketed as a standalone, this reads too much like a sequel. And I was right. There is, in fact, a whole book about Allie and Rabb that takes place before the events of this one. This means that it lacked any backstory between our main couple, which is pretty vital in a second chance romance.
I really liked the magical cyberpunk vibes of the world, if only the worldbuilding were more intricate, the magic better explained, and the science more realistic, or at least more thought through. The main villain felt like a Dr Doofenschmitz parody, and the whole amnesia plot and long-lost memories returning just in the right moment thing came out pretty cliche. The ending felt too rushed, and honestly made very little sense to me, as the resolution of main conflict itself was barely satisfactory.
I didn't like the characters much, either. At times, it felt more like a bully romance than a second chance romance—Rabb kept being an asshole to Allie, and Allie kept thinking about how hot he is. The author tried to tell us there's this sizzling chemistry between the two, but I didn't feel any. There were also some episodic characters that showed up out of nowhere, and then were never mentioned again for no apparent reason whatsoever.
Thank you to the author for the eARC of this book.
I really liked the magical cyberpunk vibes of the world, if only the worldbuilding were more intricate, the magic better explained, and the science more realistic, or at least more thought through. The main villain felt like a Dr Doofenschmitz parody, and the whole amnesia plot and long-lost memories returning just in the right moment thing came out pretty cliche. The ending felt too rushed, and honestly made very little sense to me, as the resolution of main conflict itself was barely satisfactory.
I didn't like the characters much, either. At times, it felt more like a bully romance than a second chance romance—Rabb kept being an asshole to Allie, and Allie kept thinking about how hot he is. The author tried to tell us there's this sizzling chemistry between the two, but I didn't feel any. There were also some episodic characters that showed up out of nowhere, and then were never mentioned again for no apparent reason whatsoever.
Thank you to the author for the eARC of this book.
September 25, 2026
⭐⭐ ⭐ 3
Unfortunately, this one just wasn't for me.
The premise sounded incredibly promising: a dark fairytale inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella, a wicked king, a second-chance romance, and a magical world filled with danger. I genuinely wanted to love it, but the execution left me disappointed.
My biggest issue was the storytelling. There was so much happening, yet I struggled to feel invested in any of it. The pacing felt chaotic, the world-building was occasionally confusing, and important elements of the characters' shared history were explained rather than explored.
The romance was another disappointment. I usually enjoy morally gray love interests and complicated relationships, but I couldn't connect with Allie and the Wicked King. Their chemistry didn't quite work for me, and their emotional conflicts lacked the depth I was hoping for.
I did appreciate the creativity behind the setting and the combination of different fairytale elements. Unfortunately, an interesting concept wasn't enough to keep me emotionally invested.
Overall, a book with plenty of potential that simply didn't deliver for me. I expected a captivating dark romantasy, but ended up feeling disconnected from both the characters and the story.
Unfortunately, this one just wasn't for me.
The premise sounded incredibly promising: a dark fairytale inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella, a wicked king, a second-chance romance, and a magical world filled with danger. I genuinely wanted to love it, but the execution left me disappointed.
My biggest issue was the storytelling. There was so much happening, yet I struggled to feel invested in any of it. The pacing felt chaotic, the world-building was occasionally confusing, and important elements of the characters' shared history were explained rather than explored.
The romance was another disappointment. I usually enjoy morally gray love interests and complicated relationships, but I couldn't connect with Allie and the Wicked King. Their chemistry didn't quite work for me, and their emotional conflicts lacked the depth I was hoping for.
I did appreciate the creativity behind the setting and the combination of different fairytale elements. Unfortunately, an interesting concept wasn't enough to keep me emotionally invested.
Overall, a book with plenty of potential that simply didn't deliver for me. I expected a captivating dark romantasy, but ended up feeling disconnected from both the characters and the story.
September 10, 2026
Thank you to the author and the publisher, Zeta Indie Publishing, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley !!
“And somewhere in the Great Hall, a king who should have died tonight stood very much alive - because I had loved him once”
I’m obsessed with this series !!! All standalones and all from different authors and all absolutely amazing enemies to lovers stories !! This time we have Alice in Wonderland but with a twist. She saved the heart of the shadow daddy man who killed the Queen of Hearts and took the throne. And he is now looking for a bride! The bargain, the enemies to lovers to enemies to lovers, the forced proximity, their shared past … it was all too much. It was all too good. I found myself suddenly wanting more than what transpired through the pages. I wanted to know the details of their past. I wanted to know it all. And I wanted more of their present. Allie and the Wicked King. I marvel at them. I loved every second of this book. And when it was over … I would have wanted more of that too !!!
“You touch her, you die”
“And somewhere in the Great Hall, a king who should have died tonight stood very much alive - because I had loved him once”
I’m obsessed with this series !!! All standalones and all from different authors and all absolutely amazing enemies to lovers stories !! This time we have Alice in Wonderland but with a twist. She saved the heart of the shadow daddy man who killed the Queen of Hearts and took the throne. And he is now looking for a bride! The bargain, the enemies to lovers to enemies to lovers, the forced proximity, their shared past … it was all too much. It was all too good. I found myself suddenly wanting more than what transpired through the pages. I wanted to know the details of their past. I wanted to know it all. And I wanted more of their present. Allie and the Wicked King. I marvel at them. I loved every second of this book. And when it was over … I would have wanted more of that too !!!
“You touch her, you die”
August 29, 2026
What a gorgeous cover!!! This may be a hit for fans of romantasy and retellings. The spice is okay and there is a plot line to go along with the romance. It is a very standard romantasy read and may resonate well for Alice fans.
However, the book had some major drawbacks for me. Marketed as a standalone, it reads like a sequel. Indeed, if you review the authors other works, there is a book with the same characters at an earlier point in their timeline. I feel that this should be marketed as a sequel and not a standalone - I don’t think the romance works at all the way it is now.
The characters had very little chemistry and the main interactions were him being cruel and then her still thinking he was very attractive.
The plot was interesting, but the ultimate villains felt very cartoonish, and the “science” wildly underdeveloped.
Thank you to S. L. Breaker, Zeta Indie Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC!
However, the book had some major drawbacks for me. Marketed as a standalone, it reads like a sequel. Indeed, if you review the authors other works, there is a book with the same characters at an earlier point in their timeline. I feel that this should be marketed as a sequel and not a standalone - I don’t think the romance works at all the way it is now.
The characters had very little chemistry and the main interactions were him being cruel and then her still thinking he was very attractive.
The plot was interesting, but the ultimate villains felt very cartoonish, and the “science” wildly underdeveloped.
Thank you to S. L. Breaker, Zeta Indie Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC!
August 18, 2026
Fated to the Wicked King was such a fun and unique take on an Alice in Wonderland retelling! I really enjoyed seeing familiar Wonderland-inspired elements reimagined into something darker and more romantic while still feeling like its own story.
The world building was one of my favorite parts. There was this whimsical yet dangerous atmosphere that gave me those classic Wonderland vibes while adding an entirely new fantasy spin. I loved discovering the different pieces of the world and seeing how everything connected as the story unfolded.
I’m also a sucker for a good second chance romance, and I really enjoyed that element here. The history, tension, and complicated emotions between the characters added another layer to the romance and made me want to keep reading to see where their relationship would go.
Overall, this was a creative, darker twist on a story we all know, with strong world building, romance, and just the right amount of Wonderland nostalgia. Definitely an enjoyable read!
4 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
The world building was one of my favorite parts. There was this whimsical yet dangerous atmosphere that gave me those classic Wonderland vibes while adding an entirely new fantasy spin. I loved discovering the different pieces of the world and seeing how everything connected as the story unfolded.
I’m also a sucker for a good second chance romance, and I really enjoyed that element here. The history, tension, and complicated emotions between the characters added another layer to the romance and made me want to keep reading to see where their relationship would go.
Overall, this was a creative, darker twist on a story we all know, with strong world building, romance, and just the right amount of Wonderland nostalgia. Definitely an enjoyable read!
4 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Fated to the Wicked King:
Highly Recommend!!
This is a great story with a dynamic premise - combining elements of Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella with steampunk mixed in. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and kept me guessing throughout the entire book. It is clever, intriguing and mysterious, with action, drama, twists and turns right up to the very last page. There were moments that were heartbreaking, heartstopping, funny and swoon worthy. It has compelling characters who show it's never too late to do the right thing, make better choices and have a second chance at love. The yearning between the MMC and FMC was beautifully written. I really enjoyed seeing how their story unfolded. The side characters enhanced the story in the best possible way and made this book even more fun to read. Besides, who doesn't love a cheeky cat??? I look forward to reading more by SL Breaker!
Highly Recommend!!
This is a great story with a dynamic premise - combining elements of Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella with steampunk mixed in. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and kept me guessing throughout the entire book. It is clever, intriguing and mysterious, with action, drama, twists and turns right up to the very last page. There were moments that were heartbreaking, heartstopping, funny and swoon worthy. It has compelling characters who show it's never too late to do the right thing, make better choices and have a second chance at love. The yearning between the MMC and FMC was beautifully written. I really enjoyed seeing how their story unfolded. The side characters enhanced the story in the best possible way and made this book even more fun to read. Besides, who doesn't love a cheeky cat??? I look forward to reading more by SL Breaker!
October 4, 2026
Can she redeem the man she used to love? Or is she fated to ruin with the world he burns?
Okay, I really liked this one too ha-ha. I was giggling a bit at the banter that was happening at the beginning, and this king is quite yummy if I do say so myself. Chez the cat is a lovely side character, and I never knew I needed an Alice X Cinderella themed book, these two vibes work very well together!!
It was adventurous and funny, it had strong character development and loveable characters (insert Chez), along with a good world building aspect.
I like the writing of this story, and that's what makes me adore multiple authors coming together with books in a series, each has different writing style! (Take a look at "The Forgotten Kingdoms" same idea)
I was an honored ARC reader!
Okay, I really liked this one too ha-ha. I was giggling a bit at the banter that was happening at the beginning, and this king is quite yummy if I do say so myself. Chez the cat is a lovely side character, and I never knew I needed an Alice X Cinderella themed book, these two vibes work very well together!!
It was adventurous and funny, it had strong character development and loveable characters (insert Chez), along with a good world building aspect.
I like the writing of this story, and that's what makes me adore multiple authors coming together with books in a series, each has different writing style! (Take a look at "The Forgotten Kingdoms" same idea)
I was an honored ARC reader!
September 8, 2026
Alice in Wonderland and Cinderella vibes! Yes, please! Love fairy tales reimagined! So fun! Interesting fantasy world, cool steampunk elements too! With a nice dash of romance! Allie and Rabb were in love, but circumstances got in the way of their relationship. There’s a second chance at romance to be had, but Rabb isn’t exactly his old self. Enjoyed their dynamic! Allie wants to be there for Rabb, and he wants to be there for her, but these two have a lot to work through. Just an entertaining story! Liked a bit of adventure and danger with an edge!
September 21, 2026
I re-read "Trapped by Clocks and Hearts" prior to reading this sequel. Rabb is still trying to get accustomed to his new reality, while Allie is still trying to remember who she is! Being Wünder, of course all kinds of things go wrong. However it all leads to a Happily Ever After. I highly recommend reading "Trapped by Clocks and Hearts" prior to reading this so it all makes as much sense as Wünder ever does...
October 2, 2026
This was a fantastic take on Wonderland. The mix of steampunk and adventure in a world that we sort of know wraps you up and takes you away from real life. There are enough differences to keep the story unique and interesting (zombies!!). Our main characters yearning was a gritty reality check on enemies-to-lovers. They were both so sure they were doing the right thing - then out came the secrets! It was just fun!!
Want to Read
September 8, 2026Thank you to Netgalley and Victoria Editing for the Advanced Review Copy of this book.
I will not be giving this a full review, as it was DNFed at 13 %. It is marketed as a somewhat standalone, but did not feel like a standalone for me. I need to read the previous book. Both are put on my TBR. I am sure there are others who can read this as a standalone, but I am not one of them.
I will not be giving this a full review, as it was DNFed at 13 %. It is marketed as a somewhat standalone, but did not feel like a standalone for me. I need to read the previous book. Both are put on my TBR. I am sure there are others who can read this as a standalone, but I am not one of them.
September 21, 2026
I enjoyed this retelling of Alice in Wonderland. You didn't HAVE to read the prequel book but I do think it would be better with it. I'll probably read it sometime. The ending was kinda left open. No definitive as to what happens to them, but they seem to at least be together so there's that. It was nice.
Did Not Finish
October 1, 2026First ever book I have DNF’d unfortunately.
The premise here was good but this is written like a sequel, not a standalone. As a result there’s no context or backstory to the romance, the MMC doesn’t come across morally grey he just comes across abusive, and I was left confused.
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC. DNF’d at 28%.
The premise here was good but this is written like a sequel, not a standalone. As a result there’s no context or backstory to the romance, the MMC doesn’t come across morally grey he just comes across abusive, and I was left confused.
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC. DNF’d at 28%.
September 12, 2026
I received the ARC for this book! It was an interesting continuation from Trapped by Clocks and Hearts!
September 10, 2026
“Fated to the Wicked King” was such an interesting retelling of “Alice in Wonderland”. It really gave off “Treasure Planet”/steampunk vibes and I LOVED that!
This book can be read as a standalone but can also be read as a sequel to “Trapped by Clocks and Hearts” which I want to read next because I think it will give me more context of our two main characters: King Rabb and Allie.
If you like romantasy books with enemies to lovers, second chance, fairytale retelling, and steampunk vibes then this is the book for you.
This book can be read as a standalone but can also be read as a sequel to “Trapped by Clocks and Hearts” which I want to read next because I think it will give me more context of our two main characters: King Rabb and Allie.
If you like romantasy books with enemies to lovers, second chance, fairytale retelling, and steampunk vibes then this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so much fun! I love the kookie zaniness of Alice in Wonderland and this is such a cool story set in that world. This story is actually a sequel to Trapped by Hearts and Clocks, but can be read as a stand alone. TBHAC is actually a retelling/reimagining of AIW and FTTWK occurs after the fall of the Red Queen. This story has plenty of twists, turns, mystery and steam. I loved this version of Wunderland and this was such a fun Act Two. Thank you so much to the publisher for the early copy.
September 20, 2026
Steampunk romance was a new genre for me, and I honestly enjoyed this book so much! I went back and read the prequal to it, and wish I would have done that prior. Great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland vibes?! Count me in! ✨🩷
I absolutely loved everything about this book! Allie and Rabb’s chemistry was spot on, and I was completely invested in their story from beginning to end. The whimsical, fairytale-inspired vibes made this such a fun and captivating read.
As for the spice, I’d give it a 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️—but let me tell you, the scenes we do get were HOT! 🔥
If you love fairytale vibes, swoony chemistry, and a little spice, I’d definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR! 💕
Thank you to the author for this advance copy!
I absolutely loved everything about this book! Allie and Rabb’s chemistry was spot on, and I was completely invested in their story from beginning to end. The whimsical, fairytale-inspired vibes made this such a fun and captivating read.
As for the spice, I’d give it a 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️—but let me tell you, the scenes we do get were HOT! 🔥
If you love fairytale vibes, swoony chemistry, and a little spice, I’d definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR! 💕
Thank you to the author for this advance copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READER :
This was such a unique story, different from the ones that I'm used to reading. The world building was incredible!
I loved Allie and Rabb, as well as Chez and Duchess, with their banter.
The king is such a complex, morally grey character, arrogant, detached, but not without a reason.
Allie is such a brainiac, a very intelligent, brave woman, that has no memories of certain aspects of her past. Both of them are trying to find some answers through their endeavor!
The story was captivating, I kept on reading, wanting to see, how it would end and was definitely not expecting this ending! Woww
Favorite quote of the story
-"Did you really think I would let those bastards hurt you?"
Perfect for users that love these tropes:
-Fated Mates
-Morally Grey MMC
-Touch her and Die
-Forbidden Love
-Second Chance
-Portals
-He Falls first
This was such a unique story, different from the ones that I'm used to reading. The world building was incredible!
I loved Allie and Rabb, as well as Chez and Duchess, with their banter.
The king is such a complex, morally grey character, arrogant, detached, but not without a reason.
Allie is such a brainiac, a very intelligent, brave woman, that has no memories of certain aspects of her past. Both of them are trying to find some answers through their endeavor!
The story was captivating, I kept on reading, wanting to see, how it would end and was definitely not expecting this ending! Woww
Favorite quote of the story
-"Did you really think I would let those bastards hurt you?"
Perfect for users that love these tropes:
-Fated Mates
-Morally Grey MMC
-Touch her and Die
-Forbidden Love
-Second Chance
-Portals
-He Falls first
August 29, 2026
A second chance and an Alice in Wonderland retelling with sprinkles of other fairytales. A devastating romance. Rabb the assassin from book one discovers he is actually a prince and was deceived by the Red Queen. In this story he takes his place as rightful king...but is cursed and his wickedness prevails. As does his wicked reputation, breaking the heart of his love Allie.
Allie tinkers away trying to make away home since everything she had in Wünder is lost to her. But an invitation to the castle stirs up memories and history.
The wickedness that is portrayed in the king as compared to the snarky, sassy annoyed assassin from book one is written so well. Allie comments so often on how different the king seems from Rabb, and yet there are glimmers of his "old" self. They embark on new adventures in this book and realize more things about themselves in each other than they knew from their first time in love.
I really enjoyed the fairytale elements, STEM ability of the FMC, and the "steampunk" elements. The ending surprised me, didn't see it coming. :)
Allie tinkers away trying to make away home since everything she had in Wünder is lost to her. But an invitation to the castle stirs up memories and history.
The wickedness that is portrayed in the king as compared to the snarky, sassy annoyed assassin from book one is written so well. Allie comments so often on how different the king seems from Rabb, and yet there are glimmers of his "old" self. They embark on new adventures in this book and realize more things about themselves in each other than they knew from their first time in love.
I really enjoyed the fairytale elements, STEM ability of the FMC, and the "steampunk" elements. The ending surprised me, didn't see it coming. :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader's Copy
An Alice in Wonderland retelling?? Count me in.
This series is such an easy read for me. When I want a quick, enjoyable read, I turn to the one I haven't read yet. Anyways, going into this book, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I mean, I personally feel like an Alice in Wonderland retelling is a gamble. It can either be very good or not so. Well, this book fell into the mostly very good category for me. Although I found the ending very abrupt and more or less enjoyable. I also had no idea a book had to be read before this one to grasp a better understanding of all that had happened prior to where we are currently situated. I don't feel like it impacted my rating a lot. I feel like the book could well be a standalone, but I will still read the first one because I enjoyed this world.
I very much liked the MMC and FMC. I enjoyed reading about each one, and I felt the chemistry brewing between the two. The chess scene was one of my favourites; it made me gasp soooo hard. But I feel like the most intimate scene was not that well situated in the book.
Overall, it was a good and light read during my week.
An Alice in Wonderland retelling?? Count me in.
This series is such an easy read for me. When I want a quick, enjoyable read, I turn to the one I haven't read yet. Anyways, going into this book, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I mean, I personally feel like an Alice in Wonderland retelling is a gamble. It can either be very good or not so. Well, this book fell into the mostly very good category for me. Although I found the ending very abrupt and more or less enjoyable. I also had no idea a book had to be read before this one to grasp a better understanding of all that had happened prior to where we are currently situated. I don't feel like it impacted my rating a lot. I feel like the book could well be a standalone, but I will still read the first one because I enjoyed this world.
I very much liked the MMC and FMC. I enjoyed reading about each one, and I felt the chemistry brewing between the two. The chess scene was one of my favourites; it made me gasp soooo hard. But I feel like the most intimate scene was not that well situated in the book.
Overall, it was a good and light read during my week.
Review of advance copy
4.75⭐️ 4🌶
This book was so good
After the ending of the prequel, I thought what else could we add to the story, and honestly, I was a little worried, but this book was out of my expectations.
I loved every second of it.
It was amazing.
But this ending, tho😡😡😡
I'll not give any spoilers,
But in my opinion,
I would have loved to
Have things end differently.
But I loved this book so much, and it gave me some kind of closure to the previous one.
Did I like the ending ?
Not really.
Did I love the books and its characters?
Absolutely, yes.
This book was so good
After the ending of the prequel, I thought what else could we add to the story, and honestly, I was a little worried, but this book was out of my expectations.
I loved every second of it.
It was amazing.
But this ending, tho😡😡😡
I'll not give any spoilers,
But in my opinion,
I would have loved to
Have things end differently.
But I loved this book so much, and it gave me some kind of closure to the previous one.
Did I like the ending ?
Not really.
Did I love the books and its characters?
Absolutely, yes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️’s! I was really excited to read this because I read another book in the “fated to the enemy” series, and it did not disappoint.
This book was a fantastical mix of Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella, with its own twist! I found myself continually surprised and wondering what would happen next with each chapter that I read.
The ending isn’t a what I’m used to at th end of a romance novel, but was interesting and I found myself wanting more. I wish it would have had more of what happens with Allie and Rabb!
This book was a fantastical mix of Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella, with its own twist! I found myself continually surprised and wondering what would happen next with each chapter that I read.
The ending isn’t a what I’m used to at th end of a romance novel, but was interesting and I found myself wanting more. I wish it would have had more of what happens with Allie and Rabb!
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