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Alice: Pick a Card #3
Alice in the Palace of Spades
Some rules are meant to be broken.
At least that is what I tell myself when I steal a book that I was not even meant to know existed from the King of Hearts, believing it to contain information about my father’s time in Wonderland.
But the journal does not contain any revelations about Reginald Grey, nor any greater notions concerning the magical world surrounding me, but rather another mystery that I cannot solve—Who is Professor Thames? How did he know my father? And most importantly…
How did he escape Wonderland?
The resurrection of a time honored tradition gives me the opportunity to explore the Palace of Spades during the greatest masquerade Wonderland has ever known. Lucky for me, the Palace of Spades houses the greatest library in the world– the only problem is, getting into it when all eyes are on me, the so-called Jabberwock slayer.
And while I find myself growing ever closer to the mysterious Kaeden Hart, an avalanche of things unsaid remains between us and perhaps most concerningly, I find myself further drawn into the mysterious world of the Cheshire Cat…
Who holds a dark secret he refuses to share.
At least that is what I tell myself when I steal a book that I was not even meant to know existed from the King of Hearts, believing it to contain information about my father’s time in Wonderland.
But the journal does not contain any revelations about Reginald Grey, nor any greater notions concerning the magical world surrounding me, but rather another mystery that I cannot solve—Who is Professor Thames? How did he know my father? And most importantly…
How did he escape Wonderland?
The resurrection of a time honored tradition gives me the opportunity to explore the Palace of Spades during the greatest masquerade Wonderland has ever known. Lucky for me, the Palace of Spades houses the greatest library in the world– the only problem is, getting into it when all eyes are on me, the so-called Jabberwock slayer.
And while I find myself growing ever closer to the mysterious Kaeden Hart, an avalanche of things unsaid remains between us and perhaps most concerningly, I find myself further drawn into the mysterious world of the Cheshire Cat…
Who holds a dark secret he refuses to share.
- GenresRetellings
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2022
33 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 7, 2022
So happy to return to Wonderland with Alice and the gang!
What I liked about this book:
1. The worldbuilding continues to evolve in this book, more from a political front than a geography front though. It appears we are going to see even more political corruption going forward, which I am definitely digging. Seems like a much larger war is brewing than I initially thought after book 2…very excited to see where this goes.
I also appreciated the backstory on Chess and finding out that Manon and Roison don’t get along. I guess I hadn’t realized, though now it seems silly, that there is great strife between daughters in the history of Chess leading to a white side and a red side. Furthermore, I loved learning that the last time the sides were united was under Manon’s and Roison’s mother, who definitely tried to use the Jabberwock to her advantage. Definitely thinking my theory on Manon from book 2 (book 2 review) is even more correct now…
2. We get more background on Cornelius Thames (the King of Cards, aka all these dudes’ dad) and Reginald (Alice’s dad), which was fantastic! I want to know more because I really think Cornelius is the reason for Alice’s dad being killed, even if they were childhood friends!!!
3. “Let’s talk about sex, baby”…so, it finally happened! It wasn’t graphic, which is actually quite perfect for this series (I know, I’m shocked I feel that way too!). I will say, I really don’t think it was supposed to be sexy when he told her to bite him if it hurt, but here I am over here just worshipping the man that is Kaeden Heart.
4. A lot of great lines, as is typical for these books.
“Death, taxes, stains, and missing socks. Those were the four inevitabilities of Wonderland that applied to just about everyone, and there was on small inevitability that belonged to me alone: trouble. I would always get into trouble.” – As a tax accountant, I’m happy to hear I could have job security in Wonderland too.
“Other than my father, men really could be a pain.” – Spoken like a true daddy’s girl
“Never trust men who cheat at cards, Peter.” – God, I feel like this should be the tagline for the whole freaking series.
“…while I would have trusted him with my life, I would have never trusted him with my mind. Not all my thoughts and secrets.” – Ok good, Alice has Claude figured out.
“Handsome men were a curse on humanity.” – Ain’t that the truth.
“So, like any well-mannered young lady, I did an outstanding job of nodding and agreeing when I knew men were talking about annoyingly impossible things. It was quite effective, really.” – When “just sit there and look pretty” can be used to our advantage.
“My mother had told me that women felt guilty far too often once, and I had taken that to heart, so I very rarely felt the need to apologize.” – FACTS! I constantly tell my staff at work this so they stop leading their messages with apologies!
“Kept out of sight and out of mind, as many far too opinionated women were.” -MMHMMM
Why it didn’t get 5 stars:
1. This book definitely lived up to what I expected for Claude: it was shifty, it was all over the place, and I didn’t trust anything that happened. There were so many things going on at once, that I was frequently asking myself, “Wait, what is going on?”
Thank you to Booksirens and B.A. Lovejoy for the opportunity to read this book. The opinions expressed above are my own, honest opinions.
3.5 stars!
What I liked about this book:
1. The worldbuilding continues to evolve in this book, more from a political front than a geography front though. It appears we are going to see even more political corruption going forward, which I am definitely digging. Seems like a much larger war is brewing than I initially thought after book 2…very excited to see where this goes.
I also appreciated the backstory on Chess and finding out that Manon and Roison don’t get along. I guess I hadn’t realized, though now it seems silly, that there is great strife between daughters in the history of Chess leading to a white side and a red side. Furthermore, I loved learning that the last time the sides were united was under Manon’s and Roison’s mother, who definitely tried to use the Jabberwock to her advantage. Definitely thinking my theory on Manon from book 2 (book 2 review) is even more correct now…
2. We get more background on Cornelius Thames (the King of Cards, aka all these dudes’ dad) and Reginald (Alice’s dad), which was fantastic! I want to know more because I really think Cornelius is the reason for Alice’s dad being killed, even if they were childhood friends!!!
3. “Let’s talk about sex, baby”…so, it finally happened! It wasn’t graphic, which is actually quite perfect for this series (I know, I’m shocked I feel that way too!). I will say, I really don’t think it was supposed to be sexy when he told her to bite him if it hurt, but here I am over here just worshipping the man that is Kaeden Heart.
4. A lot of great lines, as is typical for these books.
“Death, taxes, stains, and missing socks. Those were the four inevitabilities of Wonderland that applied to just about everyone, and there was on small inevitability that belonged to me alone: trouble. I would always get into trouble.” – As a tax accountant, I’m happy to hear I could have job security in Wonderland too.
“Other than my father, men really could be a pain.” – Spoken like a true daddy’s girl
“Never trust men who cheat at cards, Peter.” – God, I feel like this should be the tagline for the whole freaking series.
“…while I would have trusted him with my life, I would have never trusted him with my mind. Not all my thoughts and secrets.” – Ok good, Alice has Claude figured out.
“Handsome men were a curse on humanity.” – Ain’t that the truth.
“So, like any well-mannered young lady, I did an outstanding job of nodding and agreeing when I knew men were talking about annoyingly impossible things. It was quite effective, really.” – When “just sit there and look pretty” can be used to our advantage.
“My mother had told me that women felt guilty far too often once, and I had taken that to heart, so I very rarely felt the need to apologize.” – FACTS! I constantly tell my staff at work this so they stop leading their messages with apologies!
“Kept out of sight and out of mind, as many far too opinionated women were.” -MMHMMM
Why it didn’t get 5 stars:
1. This book definitely lived up to what I expected for Claude: it was shifty, it was all over the place, and I didn’t trust anything that happened. There were so many things going on at once, that I was frequently asking myself, “Wait, what is going on?”
Thank you to Booksirens and B.A. Lovejoy for the opportunity to read this book. The opinions expressed above are my own, honest opinions.
3.5 stars!
September 13, 2022
ALICE IN THE PALACE OF SPADES
BY: B.A. LOVEJOY
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
You see, I, Alice, was a professional ruiner of things, but he? He was something good, something pure, something happy- I winced at the mere notion of wrecking that.
ALICE IN THE PALACE OF SPADES is the third book in the Alice: Pick a Card Series. It follows the events of the first two books, just at a slower pace.
To be honest, I think a lot of the events were dragged to an extreme. The book starts with one event and ends with the consequence of it, so essentially you read about one thing and one thing only. Still, a lot happens to the side, but it felt flat and I was unsure which direction everything was going, which made it hard to keep my focus on the storyline. Maybe it also suffered from the middle-book syndrome, as far as that is possible for a book in this order.
I did like the characters and how we got to know them even more. Alice still feels she isn’t changing too much so I hope her character development is slowly introduced, but I still like her attitude. The introduction of more characters and their motivations wasn’t confusing and I could easily imagine why they did certain things. The main cast of characters also still has my heart; the chaos they create keeps being fun to read about. Also, the romance isn’t too bad, and coming from me that means a lot. I just find it hard to comment about it since I don’t expect a lot from it and I don’t have many references.
I also liked we got to understand Wonderland and its relationship with time more; it all got explained in simple language that wasn’t hard to follow. Even though Wonderland goes well together with chaos, I never felt anything happened without an explanation that didn’t make sense.
Overall, I felt it was way slower than I thought it would, with a lot of events happening at the end. It does make me excited for the next book but I had hoped the actions would be spread out more.
BY: B.A. LOVEJOY
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
You see, I, Alice, was a professional ruiner of things, but he? He was something good, something pure, something happy- I winced at the mere notion of wrecking that.
ALICE IN THE PALACE OF SPADES is the third book in the Alice: Pick a Card Series. It follows the events of the first two books, just at a slower pace.
To be honest, I think a lot of the events were dragged to an extreme. The book starts with one event and ends with the consequence of it, so essentially you read about one thing and one thing only. Still, a lot happens to the side, but it felt flat and I was unsure which direction everything was going, which made it hard to keep my focus on the storyline. Maybe it also suffered from the middle-book syndrome, as far as that is possible for a book in this order.
I did like the characters and how we got to know them even more. Alice still feels she isn’t changing too much so I hope her character development is slowly introduced, but I still like her attitude. The introduction of more characters and their motivations wasn’t confusing and I could easily imagine why they did certain things. The main cast of characters also still has my heart; the chaos they create keeps being fun to read about. Also, the romance isn’t too bad, and coming from me that means a lot. I just find it hard to comment about it since I don’t expect a lot from it and I don’t have many references.
I also liked we got to understand Wonderland and its relationship with time more; it all got explained in simple language that wasn’t hard to follow. Even though Wonderland goes well together with chaos, I never felt anything happened without an explanation that didn’t make sense.
Overall, I felt it was way slower than I thought it would, with a lot of events happening at the end. It does make me excited for the next book but I had hoped the actions would be spread out more.
July 12, 2024
Pacing was a lot better than the previous book.
It felt like the beginning needed a push, but that happened quite soon so I think the pacing was between medium to even fast.
Really really liked the whole 'we need to stay in the house and all the doors that lead outside are locked' setting. In general the idea that Alice doesn't need to travel far to meet the other boys as they are in the same house with her. Gave me murder mystery vibes (yes I was ready to solve a murder in this one hahaha)
The whole partners in mischief (crime) was so funny and interesting too. We really see the relationship between Claude and Alice blossom here. I really hope they stay friends, they are so funny!
Many other aspects I liked were already mentioned in my other reviews about this series so I won't repeat them again.
My main dislike was how the relationship with Alice and Fitz got worse again. I honestly see no reason for her to dislike him as much as Thomas. He isn't even harmful. And I honestly think that he tries to help and might foreshadows a plot twist, as I kinda can't trust Kaeden anymore. Something just feels off. But let's see about that in the next book. Hopefully Fitz will befriend Alice too soon.
Another thing I disliked is how Alice seemed a bit stupid in this book, as she did many things she knew weren't right and nevertheless did them. Her attitude also didn't change, but we get less of it, from my view.
11. July 2024
It felt like the beginning needed a push, but that happened quite soon so I think the pacing was between medium to even fast.
Really really liked the whole 'we need to stay in the house and all the doors that lead outside are locked' setting. In general the idea that Alice doesn't need to travel far to meet the other boys as they are in the same house with her. Gave me murder mystery vibes (yes I was ready to solve a murder in this one hahaha)
The whole partners in mischief (crime) was so funny and interesting too. We really see the relationship between Claude and Alice blossom here. I really hope they stay friends, they are so funny!
Many other aspects I liked were already mentioned in my other reviews about this series so I won't repeat them again.
My main dislike was how the relationship with Alice and Fitz got worse again. I honestly see no reason for her to dislike him as much as Thomas. He isn't even harmful. And I honestly think that he tries to help and might foreshadows a plot twist, as I kinda can't trust Kaeden anymore. Something just feels off. But let's see about that in the next book. Hopefully Fitz will befriend Alice too soon.
Another thing I disliked is how Alice seemed a bit stupid in this book, as she did many things she knew weren't right and nevertheless did them. Her attitude also didn't change, but we get less of it, from my view.
11. July 2024
March 13, 2024
3.5 rounded to 4. there’s a lot more going on politically in this one & more world building. some of the writing is still non sensical and i have to keep reminding myself that’s typical for Wonderland inspired stories. i can’t wait for the next book though and to get more Kaeden because 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼
April 27, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm having the same reaction to this, the 3rd book in the series, as I did to the first one - that I don't know whether to trust the author. The writing style is flowery and relies on idioms - to an excessive and uncomfortable degree - and I don't know whether this is deliberate by the author to be Alice's voice; or deliberate by the author because that's just how she writes.
At the same time, I was absolutely glued to this and rattled through it - couldn't put it down. After the scene between Alice and Kaeden at the end of book 2 (where Kaeden practically snogs Alice's pubic bone!) I expected things to pick up quickly between them in book 3. But the payoff doesn't happen until ~90%.
The main question for me is whether I'm sufficiently engaged with the series to go for the last two books. This one felt very rushed to me - badly edited with words missing, phrases repeated, and at one point I found I needed to read it out loud just to understand it. I recommend to the author to read this out loud. Some of the repetition was poetic, most of it felt like bad editing.
Overall, the story is interesting even if the execution wavers occasionally and falters a bit.
I'm having the same reaction to this, the 3rd book in the series, as I did to the first one - that I don't know whether to trust the author. The writing style is flowery and relies on idioms - to an excessive and uncomfortable degree - and I don't know whether this is deliberate by the author to be Alice's voice; or deliberate by the author because that's just how she writes.
At the same time, I was absolutely glued to this and rattled through it - couldn't put it down. After the scene between Alice and Kaeden at the end of book 2 (where Kaeden practically snogs Alice's pubic bone!) I expected things to pick up quickly between them in book 3. But the payoff doesn't happen until ~90%.
The main question for me is whether I'm sufficiently engaged with the series to go for the last two books. This one felt very rushed to me - badly edited with words missing, phrases repeated, and at one point I found I needed to read it out loud just to understand it. I recommend to the author to read this out loud. Some of the repetition was poetic, most of it felt like bad editing.
Overall, the story is interesting even if the execution wavers occasionally and falters a bit.
April 21, 2022
Grrrrr... ALICE??!? Leave it to Alice to consistently pick the absolute wrong thing to do or say... it's infuriating (especially for my hubby) as I scream "NOOOOOO" into the quiet of the wee hours of the night.... grrrr I say, grrrr! I tried to start another book directly after finishing this one to get it off my mind and man, was that a mistake. Unless you like having to redirect your attention to the new (e)book over and over ad nauseam... that plus bleary eyes and a cranky (sleep deprived) hubby = no bueno. I was reeling from the turn of events... especially that cliffhanger ending.
The beauty of this book though, and this series as a whole, is that the writing is extremely reminiscent of Lewis Carroll's. If you turn your head slightly to the left and squint a bit it is easy to convince yourself that this could be cannon. The characters are yummily, morally gray and quirky and befuddling and awesome. I love them, I really do! Even the "bad guys" are loveable/loathable but don't get me started on Alice. Her machinations make it seem pretty clear that her head must be firmly planted up her bum and at times it seems that she's aware of its lodging and doesn't care one whit to rectify matters... it's aggravating.
The world building, on the otherhand, is robust and super lush and kookoo crazy pants. At times it is exhilarating and other times it is exasperating. There is such wonder and whimsy with a healthy dose of forshadowing and unseen danger at every turn WHICH happens to be presented in an enticing package of WTF just happened?!?
Then there's the romance aspect. I think it's more of an amorous parallelogram than a love triangle but hey... I'm no mathematically inclined love guru so take that with a grain of salt. NOW the sexytime scene... YAY!!! This much deserved (for EVERYONE involved) tryst was... wellll... much deserved. It helped soothe my mounting concerns regarding Alice and her poor choices especially with regard to her love life... (see last chapter and scream at your ereader until it cowers or the battery runs out). BUT I digress. Anywho, I personally enjoy the slowly percolating love interest trope but come on, 3 books?? It took 3 books!! Things needed to switch gears sooner in my opinion. I will confess, I'm not the biggest fan of the hot and heavy genre but the rated X moment in this book is done tastefully and is rather tame. So... you've been informed.
Talking about Alice and her choice of suitors...
Kaeden, oh how I love thee! How far can this bibliophile fall for the same book character over and over again you might ask (I'm glad you did and if you didnt then I will regale you anyway... please stand by)? WELLLL, the answer is that I fall exponentially further in love each page I devour... as Kaeden's sweet (with hints of a slightly naughty) nature and blatant charm escalate, so does my adoration. Now, how many times can/should one misguided, pompous, self-serving girl repeatedly spit in the face of perfection and still have him accept and forgive her anything? The answer to that one is baffling because it should be nil, bubkas, goose eggs, zilch, nada and so on... yet it's not. I am so upset with Alice, so upset I'm seething, even days later. I guess that's a telltale sign of a well written, character rich, beautifully executed read. Soooo, I'll end the rant here but I want it on record that even with that crazy ending, I still have faith in Kaeden and I put a curse on Thomas... not a death curse mind you but an uncomfortable give you a VERY bad day curse. I hope he gets stuck in traffic with explosive diarrhea while sneezing his way to a date he has been dying to ask out and he finally found the nerve, she said yes and then BAM... a not so good, very bad day, compliments of me... end tangential rant.
Overall:
This freaking book has killed me. Call for the coroner because I have been murdered.... look ashamed Bethany Anne Lovejoy... look thoroughly ashamed!! Every time I think I'm over it and can move on, I become irate (again) with the MCs and their obviously ill planned, noticeably moronic actions. STOP MAKING ME SCREAM AT MY EREADER IN THE WEE HOURS... MY HUBBY WANTS TO SLEEP AND I NOW NEED ANSWERS... TOOT SWEET!! That (overtly) dramatic cliffhanger ending was not fair and I for one did not appreciate it... nope, negative stars... Did Not Like... YET it has me in its wiley grasps and I think Mrs. Lovejoy knows it and is somewhere rubbing her hands together maniacally, stroking a hairless (ugly yet attentive) cat lovingly...
or not.
I need to know what will happen next and will my sweet Kaeden ever get all the love and adoration he deserves because make no mistake, (so far) he deserves it all, moon, stars, universe et al.
If you are a fan of weirdly wild, Lewis Carroll(esque) type tales then this series will ensnare, entice, and ensorcell you. You'll find yourself rattled and clambering for more. This series has me hooked and I need the next book like a junkie with a bad itch. I gotta have it!
I wholeheartedly recommend this series, it makes my heart happy and I think you'll feel the same crazy adoration too but if you are to venture down the rabbit hole then I suggest that you start at the very beginning because if you skip a step you'll be lost and Wonderland is not the type of place to wander around lost and confused.
Mind your step and...
~ Enjoy
*** I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
The beauty of this book though, and this series as a whole, is that the writing is extremely reminiscent of Lewis Carroll's. If you turn your head slightly to the left and squint a bit it is easy to convince yourself that this could be cannon. The characters are yummily, morally gray and quirky and befuddling and awesome. I love them, I really do! Even the "bad guys" are loveable/loathable but don't get me started on Alice. Her machinations make it seem pretty clear that her head must be firmly planted up her bum and at times it seems that she's aware of its lodging and doesn't care one whit to rectify matters... it's aggravating.
The world building, on the otherhand, is robust and super lush and kookoo crazy pants. At times it is exhilarating and other times it is exasperating. There is such wonder and whimsy with a healthy dose of forshadowing and unseen danger at every turn WHICH happens to be presented in an enticing package of WTF just happened?!?
Then there's the romance aspect. I think it's more of an amorous parallelogram than a love triangle but hey... I'm no mathematically inclined love guru so take that with a grain of salt. NOW the sexytime scene... YAY!!! This much deserved (for EVERYONE involved) tryst was... wellll... much deserved. It helped soothe my mounting concerns regarding Alice and her poor choices especially with regard to her love life... (see last chapter and scream at your ereader until it cowers or the battery runs out). BUT I digress. Anywho, I personally enjoy the slowly percolating love interest trope but come on, 3 books?? It took 3 books!! Things needed to switch gears sooner in my opinion. I will confess, I'm not the biggest fan of the hot and heavy genre but the rated X moment in this book is done tastefully and is rather tame. So... you've been informed.
Talking about Alice and her choice of suitors...
Kaeden, oh how I love thee! How far can this bibliophile fall for the same book character over and over again you might ask (I'm glad you did and if you didnt then I will regale you anyway... please stand by)? WELLLL, the answer is that I fall exponentially further in love each page I devour... as Kaeden's sweet (with hints of a slightly naughty) nature and blatant charm escalate, so does my adoration. Now, how many times can/should one misguided, pompous, self-serving girl repeatedly spit in the face of perfection and still have him accept and forgive her anything? The answer to that one is baffling because it should be nil, bubkas, goose eggs, zilch, nada and so on... yet it's not. I am so upset with Alice, so upset I'm seething, even days later. I guess that's a telltale sign of a well written, character rich, beautifully executed read. Soooo, I'll end the rant here but I want it on record that even with that crazy ending, I still have faith in Kaeden and I put a curse on Thomas... not a death curse mind you but an uncomfortable give you a VERY bad day curse. I hope he gets stuck in traffic with explosive diarrhea while sneezing his way to a date he has been dying to ask out and he finally found the nerve, she said yes and then BAM... a not so good, very bad day, compliments of me... end tangential rant.
Overall:
This freaking book has killed me. Call for the coroner because I have been murdered.... look ashamed Bethany Anne Lovejoy... look thoroughly ashamed!! Every time I think I'm over it and can move on, I become irate (again) with the MCs and their obviously ill planned, noticeably moronic actions. STOP MAKING ME SCREAM AT MY EREADER IN THE WEE HOURS... MY HUBBY WANTS TO SLEEP AND I NOW NEED ANSWERS... TOOT SWEET!! That (overtly) dramatic cliffhanger ending was not fair and I for one did not appreciate it... nope, negative stars... Did Not Like... YET it has me in its wiley grasps and I think Mrs. Lovejoy knows it and is somewhere rubbing her hands together maniacally, stroking a hairless (ugly yet attentive) cat lovingly...
or not.
I need to know what will happen next and will my sweet Kaeden ever get all the love and adoration he deserves because make no mistake, (so far) he deserves it all, moon, stars, universe et al.
If you are a fan of weirdly wild, Lewis Carroll(esque) type tales then this series will ensnare, entice, and ensorcell you. You'll find yourself rattled and clambering for more. This series has me hooked and I need the next book like a junkie with a bad itch. I gotta have it!
I wholeheartedly recommend this series, it makes my heart happy and I think you'll feel the same crazy adoration too but if you are to venture down the rabbit hole then I suggest that you start at the very beginning because if you skip a step you'll be lost and Wonderland is not the type of place to wander around lost and confused.
Mind your step and...
~ Enjoy
*** I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
May 23, 2022
Thomas has got to go!
Alice in the Palace of Spades by Bethany Anne Lovejoy is the third in the Alice: Pick a Card Series and has added another layer of questions, chaos, and concern. Alice in the Palace of Spades takes place a few months after the second book and still, Alice is trying to find a way home. She steals a book from the Heart library and is trying to find out more about how her father traveled back and forth, so she can get out of Wonderland. She’s also met with some PTSD from dealing with Jaxton and the love she may or may not have for Kaeden. She is coaxed into celebrating Kaeden’s unbirthday and all heck breaks loose.
I really enjoyed that we got to learn a bit more about the Card King, Alice’s father, and even more about the kings. We were also introduced further to the next land, the Land of Spades, which is the lovely cat’s (Claude) kingdom and its many mysteries. The character development in this was insanely great. I felt like I was going just as crazy as Alice was. It was beautifully written.
With all of that being said, I do feel like things are being drawn out a bit. Every time I think we are about to get an answer to something from the first book, we get more questions. It’d be nice to get some things resolved before adding more. I feel like I just have tons of questions.
Just when I was about to get frustrated with the flow of the romance, boom, I was smacked in the face with it. But, it felt like a mirrored situation to the first book, so it made me really question Alice’s decisions. Sometimes, she makes no sense.
Read the first two books and head on into this one, the overall story is great! I cannot wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happened next.
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of Alice in the Palace of Spades from B.A. Lovejoy via BookSirens
Alice in the Palace of Spades by Bethany Anne Lovejoy is the third in the Alice: Pick a Card Series and has added another layer of questions, chaos, and concern. Alice in the Palace of Spades takes place a few months after the second book and still, Alice is trying to find a way home. She steals a book from the Heart library and is trying to find out more about how her father traveled back and forth, so she can get out of Wonderland. She’s also met with some PTSD from dealing with Jaxton and the love she may or may not have for Kaeden. She is coaxed into celebrating Kaeden’s unbirthday and all heck breaks loose.
I really enjoyed that we got to learn a bit more about the Card King, Alice’s father, and even more about the kings. We were also introduced further to the next land, the Land of Spades, which is the lovely cat’s (Claude) kingdom and its many mysteries. The character development in this was insanely great. I felt like I was going just as crazy as Alice was. It was beautifully written.
With all of that being said, I do feel like things are being drawn out a bit. Every time I think we are about to get an answer to something from the first book, we get more questions. It’d be nice to get some things resolved before adding more. I feel like I just have tons of questions.
Just when I was about to get frustrated with the flow of the romance, boom, I was smacked in the face with it. But, it felt like a mirrored situation to the first book, so it made me really question Alice’s decisions. Sometimes, she makes no sense.
Read the first two books and head on into this one, the overall story is great! I cannot wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happened next.
*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of Alice in the Palace of Spades from B.A. Lovejoy via BookSirens
April 8, 2022
4.5*
Well shit, Bethany Anne Lovejoy (yes i’m full name, calling you out) - how are you gonna just leave it like that!? HOW are you just gonna do us like that!?😩
I’ve not exactly made it a secret that I love this series, and this instalment was no different.
Though it perhaps wasn’t as slap myself in the face shocking with the twists, the betrayals more than made up for that fact.
I absolutely loved getting to learn more about the Kingdom of Spades. And the whole clock turning and clock sickness storyline was so clever and well executed.
I went on a whole ass rollercoaster of emotions with each of our Kings and Cards this time, and I genuinely don’t know where I stand with any of them at the moment. In fact, the one we initially hated is probably in the bests regard with me atm😩😅
I love them all, naturally, but fuck, I feel for Alice. I honestly wasn’t her biggest fan in this book but by the end she had me right on side again, ready to back her up😂
The writing can be a little confusing at times, but with it being Wonderland, it works. I feel like us readers need to be a little lost or confused sometimes, because that’s how our poor Alice is feeling.
I honestly feel like I should have waited to read this as I don’t know how i’ll cope waiting for the next. But I will, i’ll persevere, and patiently await the next one (and possibly reread them all whilst I wait🙄😂).
I actually enjoy these books so much that I receive an ARC copy of them yet always read them on Kindle Unlimited to makes sure Lovejoy gets paid for her fabulous work!
Oh, almost forgot, that library😍😍 that sounds like the sort of place where dreams are made, if only it existed in our world.
♣️♦️♠️♥️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Well shit, Bethany Anne Lovejoy (yes i’m full name, calling you out) - how are you gonna just leave it like that!? HOW are you just gonna do us like that!?😩
I’ve not exactly made it a secret that I love this series, and this instalment was no different.
Though it perhaps wasn’t as slap myself in the face shocking with the twists, the betrayals more than made up for that fact.
I absolutely loved getting to learn more about the Kingdom of Spades. And the whole clock turning and clock sickness storyline was so clever and well executed.
I went on a whole ass rollercoaster of emotions with each of our Kings and Cards this time, and I genuinely don’t know where I stand with any of them at the moment. In fact, the one we initially hated is probably in the bests regard with me atm😩😅
I love them all, naturally, but fuck, I feel for Alice. I honestly wasn’t her biggest fan in this book but by the end she had me right on side again, ready to back her up😂
The writing can be a little confusing at times, but with it being Wonderland, it works. I feel like us readers need to be a little lost or confused sometimes, because that’s how our poor Alice is feeling.
I honestly feel like I should have waited to read this as I don’t know how i’ll cope waiting for the next. But I will, i’ll persevere, and patiently await the next one (and possibly reread them all whilst I wait🙄😂).
I actually enjoy these books so much that I receive an ARC copy of them yet always read them on Kindle Unlimited to makes sure Lovejoy gets paid for her fabulous work!
Oh, almost forgot, that library😍😍 that sounds like the sort of place where dreams are made, if only it existed in our world.
♣️♦️♠️♥️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2022
This was probably my favourite book of the series so far. Unlike with the first two books, I hung on to the entirety of the novel with clawed fingers and didn’t let go until the end. And not for a single second was I bored.
I think a lot of this had to do with the fact that there was a lot of Alice and Kaeden, their scenes have been my favourite throughout this series. But this book had them in, you guessed it, spades. More so, he was there from the beginning and their obvious attraction and chemistry was so palpable, I went back to read all their scenes twice.
I can commend Lovejoy on creating the perfect momentum within her series. It started from book one and worked its way slowly to near perfect in book 3. The characters arcs were so beautifully fleshed out, the relationships between the characters impressed upon and the plot grew so much so that the former nonsensical and chaotic vibe the story emanated at the beginning, slowly dwindled to nothing. Kudos to the author on using her craft as a tool, keeping the reader bereft and wanting. She definitely snagged me.
This book only further solidified my obsession and unlike the previous two, it was fast paced and I totally adored it. I’m so excited for the next book, especially with the cliffhanger at the end of this one. The way I’m eager for Kaeden to maintain his purity, because bless that boy, but with that ending I’m thinking Alice will be mad mad. Although, Alice is always mad mad. Suffice to say, if the next book is anything like this one, I’m going to love it.
Thank you to booksirens for this arc.
I think a lot of this had to do with the fact that there was a lot of Alice and Kaeden, their scenes have been my favourite throughout this series. But this book had them in, you guessed it, spades. More so, he was there from the beginning and their obvious attraction and chemistry was so palpable, I went back to read all their scenes twice.
I can commend Lovejoy on creating the perfect momentum within her series. It started from book one and worked its way slowly to near perfect in book 3. The characters arcs were so beautifully fleshed out, the relationships between the characters impressed upon and the plot grew so much so that the former nonsensical and chaotic vibe the story emanated at the beginning, slowly dwindled to nothing. Kudos to the author on using her craft as a tool, keeping the reader bereft and wanting. She definitely snagged me.
This book only further solidified my obsession and unlike the previous two, it was fast paced and I totally adored it. I’m so excited for the next book, especially with the cliffhanger at the end of this one. The way I’m eager for Kaeden to maintain his purity, because bless that boy, but with that ending I’m thinking Alice will be mad mad. Although, Alice is always mad mad. Suffice to say, if the next book is anything like this one, I’m going to love it.
Thank you to booksirens for this arc.
May 6, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The third book in the Alice: Pick a card series.
Alice's adventures in Wonderland continue, now most of the story takes place in the palace of Spades, Claude's, or also known as the Chesire Cat, palace and kingdom.
The setting is a major event in Wonderland, the turning of the clocks. Time itself is moving slower and faster as Alice tries to keep up with everything that is happening. Several people seem to take an interest in her. But a simple question or assignment can have unpleasant consequences. We see many familiar characters as many people from Wonderland are invited to the event in the Kingdom of Spades. We also run into old enemies as things come to a crashing and rushing ending.
I felt like I was on a downward spiral with each chapter in this book. Again, I find myself completely immersed in the Wonderland created in these pages. All the dialogues and interactions are interesting and keep you on the edge of your seat. I didn't want the story to end, I kept longing for more time with these characters, in this amazing setting. But at the same time, I also wanted to know how it would all turn out.
I will have to wait to read the next installment and I am very much looking forward to it.
I recommend this series (now three books) based on Alice in Wonderland, to people who love retellings, and fantasy novels.
The third book in the Alice: Pick a card series.
Alice's adventures in Wonderland continue, now most of the story takes place in the palace of Spades, Claude's, or also known as the Chesire Cat, palace and kingdom.
The setting is a major event in Wonderland, the turning of the clocks. Time itself is moving slower and faster as Alice tries to keep up with everything that is happening. Several people seem to take an interest in her. But a simple question or assignment can have unpleasant consequences. We see many familiar characters as many people from Wonderland are invited to the event in the Kingdom of Spades. We also run into old enemies as things come to a crashing and rushing ending.
I felt like I was on a downward spiral with each chapter in this book. Again, I find myself completely immersed in the Wonderland created in these pages. All the dialogues and interactions are interesting and keep you on the edge of your seat. I didn't want the story to end, I kept longing for more time with these characters, in this amazing setting. But at the same time, I also wanted to know how it would all turn out.
I will have to wait to read the next installment and I am very much looking forward to it.
I recommend this series (now three books) based on Alice in Wonderland, to people who love retellings, and fantasy novels.
March 26, 2023
Claude has always been my favorite character in this version of Wonderland, and, as this takes place in the Palace of Spades, it is "his" book. Claude's attitude and characterization always bring to mind the Cheshire Cat, which I really like. Alice, fresh off of having "slain" the Jabberwock, starts the story with a bit of mischief. It is time for the annual Clock Turning, the Daylight Savings Time of Wonderland. It is a fabulous party that can last anywhere from four days to four months, and once you go, you can't leave. As you would expect, most of the characters from the previous books attend, and hijinks ensue. There are delightfully Wonderlandian details (such as the party drinks), and the overall story is moved along, albeit slowly. The four kings of Wonderland are honestly not very likable in this one (with the possible exception of Claude at times), though, so it's kind of hard for you to want things to go their way. It ends with some rather dramatic realizations on Alice's part that the reader might have already figured out-but, in the traditional fairy tale, Alice did always seem a little slow on the uptake. I still find this version of Wonderland delightful and am eagerly awaiting to see if Alice will make it back to England or make her peace with being stuck in Wonderland. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2024
B.A. Lovejoy's "Alice in the Palace of Spades" is a riveting journey into a world where reality and fantasy blur. Set against the backdrop of a richly imagined kingdom, this novel follows Alice, a young protagonist who finds herself in a palace where each room holds new challenges and mysteries.
Lovejoy's writing is lush and evocative, creating a vibrant setting that feels both magical and menacing. The author's world-building skills are impressive, as she crafts a complex and immersive environment that draws readers in. The Palace itself is a character, with its enigmatic rooms and shifting landscapes, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.
Alice's journey is both physical and emotional, with her character development being a highlight of the book. Her growth from a curious explorer to a determined heroine is portrayed with depth and nuance. The novel deftly explores themes of courage, identity, and the nature of reality, making Alice's journey both personal and universal.
The plot is well-paced, with a series of escalating challenges that keep the reader engaged. Lovejoy masterfully balances suspense and revelation, ensuring that the story remains compelling throughout. However, some readers might find the frequent shifts in perspective and the intricate plot twists a bit disorienting.
Lovejoy's writing is lush and evocative, creating a vibrant setting that feels both magical and menacing. The author's world-building skills are impressive, as she crafts a complex and immersive environment that draws readers in. The Palace itself is a character, with its enigmatic rooms and shifting landscapes, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.
Alice's journey is both physical and emotional, with her character development being a highlight of the book. Her growth from a curious explorer to a determined heroine is portrayed with depth and nuance. The novel deftly explores themes of courage, identity, and the nature of reality, making Alice's journey both personal and universal.
The plot is well-paced, with a series of escalating challenges that keep the reader engaged. Lovejoy masterfully balances suspense and revelation, ensuring that the story remains compelling throughout. However, some readers might find the frequent shifts in perspective and the intricate plot twists a bit disorienting.
March 31, 2022
I enjoyed this instalment a lot. The beginning was intriguing as we start right in the middle of the action. The storytelling in this book is done quite well, and the whimsical way the POV is written and the way information is revealed kept me wanting to read it.
We get a lot of nice character moments in this one too, and I feel like we got to know the characters all a bit more. Especially Claude and Alice herself.
The story takes some unexpected turns in the end, and I honestly can’t guess at all where things will go. I have to keep reminding myself that this is Wonderland, and things are just wacky there sometimes but that’s all part of the charm of this world.
I loved that the slow burn romance started to actually pick up in this one too. I love Kaeden as a character, but that ending! What a cliffhanger to leave things on.
I’m looking forward to seeing where things go in the next book.
We get a lot of nice character moments in this one too, and I feel like we got to know the characters all a bit more. Especially Claude and Alice herself.
The story takes some unexpected turns in the end, and I honestly can’t guess at all where things will go. I have to keep reminding myself that this is Wonderland, and things are just wacky there sometimes but that’s all part of the charm of this world.
I loved that the slow burn romance started to actually pick up in this one too. I love Kaeden as a character, but that ending! What a cliffhanger to leave things on.
I’m looking forward to seeing where things go in the next book.
February 7, 2024
'If you overthink things too much, Alice, you will miss the important details.'
In this book, we follow Alice as she finds herself wandering in the Palace of Spades during a celebration.
I loved the first two books and I was looking forward to spending more time getting to know the Chesire Cat. But, just like Alice used to say on every other page.. Claude was nowhere in sight.
I enjoyed the descriptions and the pace was great. No holes, no moving around in circles. Well, most of the characters.
Kaeden had a development, Fitz had a development, freaking William had a development.. But not Alice. Still the same know-it-all, who doesn't know when to stop talking, but finally realizes that she can't trust any person in Wonderland. Maybe.. I'll find out in the next book.
Can't wait to read Kaeden's book! Speaking of.. that chapter near the end was just wow!
I received an ebook from BookSirens in exchange for this review.
In this book, we follow Alice as she finds herself wandering in the Palace of Spades during a celebration.
I loved the first two books and I was looking forward to spending more time getting to know the Chesire Cat. But, just like Alice used to say on every other page.. Claude was nowhere in sight.
I enjoyed the descriptions and the pace was great. No holes, no moving around in circles. Well, most of the characters.
Kaeden had a development, Fitz had a development, freaking William had a development.. But not Alice. Still the same know-it-all, who doesn't know when to stop talking, but finally realizes that she can't trust any person in Wonderland. Maybe.. I'll find out in the next book.
Can't wait to read Kaeden's book! Speaking of.. that chapter near the end was just wow!
I received an ebook from BookSirens in exchange for this review.
March 30, 2022
Well, the plot thickens around Alice !
This time, she will visit the territory of Spades. I expected so much from this volume and I was not disappointed. I was so happy to have Kaeden back in the story for once.
Claude was mysterious as ever. Maybe too much. I feel like we didn't have the same level of revelation on this brother than we had on the others in the previous volumes.
However, I am very much intrigued as to what is going to happen next. I can't say more without revealing major elements but this novel is definitely worth reading.
Honestly, regarding the plot, there wasn't a lot going on. This volume centered on the characters and their relationship and served I think as the staging of something big brewing.
I can't wait for the next novel !
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This time, she will visit the territory of Spades. I expected so much from this volume and I was not disappointed. I was so happy to have Kaeden back in the story for once.
Claude was mysterious as ever. Maybe too much. I feel like we didn't have the same level of revelation on this brother than we had on the others in the previous volumes.
However, I am very much intrigued as to what is going to happen next. I can't say more without revealing major elements but this novel is definitely worth reading.
Honestly, regarding the plot, there wasn't a lot going on. This volume centered on the characters and their relationship and served I think as the staging of something big brewing.
I can't wait for the next novel !
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 10, 2022
In this third book of the Alice Pick A card series we find Alice still determined to get home. But her determination as usual gets her into more trouble than it’s worth.
This story takes place in Claude’s home. I found his home not what I expected for a Cheshire Cat. Although the party was definitely his style.
I felt sorry for Alice during the turning of the clock as she really was not accustomed to what was happening.
This story has a few twists and turns and definitely keeps the reader wanting to turn the page. If you liked the first two books then this one is a must read.
I’ve already started the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story takes place in Claude’s home. I found his home not what I expected for a Cheshire Cat. Although the party was definitely his style.
I felt sorry for Alice during the turning of the clock as she really was not accustomed to what was happening.
This story has a few twists and turns and definitely keeps the reader wanting to turn the page. If you liked the first two books then this one is a must read.
I’ve already started the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I enjoyed the third book of the Alice: Pick a Card series, but if I'm being honest, not as much as I enjoyed the first two. Things started a bit slower in this one, though they did pick up pace and I enjoyed the last third of the book more. I continued reading because I have become invested in Alice's story and really do enjoy the characters and this version of Wonderland very much. However, the adventures and twists and turns of the plot seemed to stall a bit in the third book. I will continue the series and I want to see how things come together.
April 15, 2022
My mind has been whirling through everything that we've picked up in this series since I read the final line in Spades. I am in awe of the descriptions, the worldbuilding, the character development, everything... but that final line... it wrecked my brain. Short circuted. I'm actually going to do a full series re-read because I'm not ready to leave this series just yet. Hearts, you can be in my little hands any minute okay?
July 9, 2022
Started off strange. Almost like a glitch, but again a good read in this series. I love the Kings. Not sure who I'm rooting for but… I still don't like Alice very well. Her constant whining and self conceit get to me. Maybe the next will see her growing a little. Still a engrossing storyline with well done characters. Can't wait for the final king.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own and honestly stated.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own and honestly stated.
February 11, 2024
I think this is not for me. This book felt again stretched out and I think it's too many salami slices we get as reader instead of a whole chunk of meat. I don't think I will finish the series, but I believe that many may still enjoy the interesting plot and characters. So don't take my word for it, try it for yourself if you are curious.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 30, 2024
Review
I absolutely LOVED this book in the series, it was almost impossible to put down. I love the connection Alice and Kaeden share, and the chemistry between them is so electric. The twists towards the end had me for a ride, and B.A. Lovejoy left it on a cliff hanger, and now I’ll have to keep reading. Not that I’m complaining. Her writing is so realistic it feels as if you were actually in the moments. She’s descriptive, but not too much.
I absolutely LOVED this book in the series, it was almost impossible to put down. I love the connection Alice and Kaeden share, and the chemistry between them is so electric. The twists towards the end had me for a ride, and B.A. Lovejoy left it on a cliff hanger, and now I’ll have to keep reading. Not that I’m complaining. Her writing is so realistic it feels as if you were actually in the moments. She’s descriptive, but not too much.
August 30, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this book in the series, it was almost impossible to put down. I love the connection Alice and Kaeden share, and the chemistry between them is so electric. The twists towards the end had me for a ride, and B.A. Lovejoy left it on a cliff hanger, and now I’ll have to keep reading. Not that I’m complaining. Her writing is so realistic it feels as if you were actually in the moments. She’s descriptive, but not too much.
May 8, 2023
Book 3, the story resumes. It helps to read the previous books to follow Alice's situation in Wonderland as well as the many characters introduced. Her situation becomes personal as she learns there is a way to leave Wonderland.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksirens and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksirens and author.
March 13, 2024
My absolute favorite of the series!! Kaeden and Alice are so dreamy, BUT THE ENDING??!!! I can’t wait to start the next book. Again I’m still loving Claude even if his actions are questionable. This book really cemented my opinion on this series. It’s so interesting, so many twists and turns, and you really feel upside down with Alice in Wonderland.
July 3, 2025
This was good too.
It got a little confusing with the Oliver but not Oliver and then Thomas but not sure.
The twist with Manon and the locket was unexpected and really cool.
The twist with Kaeden was also unexpected but not so cool haha.
I kind of hope that Alice does get back to Oxford at some point, even if she doesn’t stay there, but I would just like that to happen.
It got a little confusing with the Oliver but not Oliver and then Thomas but not sure.
The twist with Manon and the locket was unexpected and really cool.
The twist with Kaeden was also unexpected but not so cool haha.
I kind of hope that Alice does get back to Oxford at some point, even if she doesn’t stay there, but I would just like that to happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2022
Each installment in this series gets better and better. I just love the journey that the author has taken on with her point of view on the traditional tale of Alice in Wonderland. This book as well as the others are excellent.
April 14, 2022
The third installment in the series keeps you on the edge of your seat! Another well paced book that I read start to finish in one sitting. Alice's adventure keeps getting more intense with unexpected plot twists. Fantastic read!
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
April 15, 2022
I loved this novel. B.A Lovejoy did it- AGAIN. And I cannot wait until the next novel is released. Alice is such a hectic character- and she aggregates me so much but I love how amazing she writes and the plot twists she throws into each novel.
April 27, 2022
This series keeps getting better and better! I can’t wait until the next book! Highly recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens!
January 31, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story continues and it keeps on sucking you further down the rabbit hole…
I can't stop reading and I can't wait to see what happens next
The story continues and it keeps on sucking you further down the rabbit hole…
I can't stop reading and I can't wait to see what happens next
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews