Queen of Hearts

Wonderland #2

by Alta Hensley

No matter how far I run, Nick Hudson finds me

I'm a pawn in a twisted game of power and revenge. And he's a masterful player.

He's going to hold me and hurt me, protect me and punish me. In a dangerous world of wealth, decadence, and sin, I have no choice but to sink into to the arms of my enemy.

There's a price to be paid, though. I must surrender control to enter this new wonderland of seduction. And I must learn to find strength for the fight that's coming. Being a Morelli has never been so dangerous.

The warring Morelli and Constantine families have enough bad blood to fill an ocean, and their brand new stories will be told by your favorite dangerous romance authors.

WARNING: This book is intended for readers eighteen years old and over. It contains material that some readers could find disturbing. Enter at your own risk...

Genres: Dark Romance, Romance, Dark, Enemies To Lovers, Erotica, Forced Proximity, Contemporary Romance

168 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 5, 2022

About the author

Alta Hensley is a NYT & USA Today bestselling author of dark romance where the villain always gets the happily ever after.

Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.

Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.

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Reviews

[Celia {Hiatus until August} · Rating 5 out of 5]

•| ⊱✿⊰ |• 5 Stars •| ⊱✿⊰ |•

When Lyriope runs away from Nick, he loses his head, and he will do everything to retrieve her.
With the help of her cousin, Sasha Morelli, Lyriope goes to a villa in Italy.
Nick only takes a second to discover her whereabouts.



Nick decides to take Wonderland to Italy, and, of course, with Lyriope with him.
When he appears to her, she's relieved but also afraid.



The thing is, Lyriope likes his punishments.
So she keeps defying him.
Mostly, because the only thing she doesn't want, to became her mother and depend on a man.



But it's too late for her, she's already in love with Nick.
Not that she'll admit.
Nick takes her with him to his villa, and together they visit Italy.



But the clock is ticking and the time they have together is for a thread.
Too many enemies and Nick is putting everything in risk for her, again…



Nick finally makes Lyriope his, and their relationship becomes more…
Something he never expected.
It seems like a honeymoon for them, the time they're spending in Italy.



They're doing everything together, even planning the next Wonderland.
Tattooing their bodies, with quotes from Alice in Wonderland, of course.



But they can't have paradise, not for them together, not with so many people not letting this happen.
And the unexpected happens in the Wonderland night.
Nick, thinking it is too dangerous for Lyriope to go with him, leave her with Cora, who he thinks she will be safe…
He can't be more wrong…



And now, the true challenge for both of them, arrived.
Bryant Morelli comes to claim his daughter.
How can Nick save Lyriope from a future without him?
This ends with a cliffhanger.

[Kursed Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up immediately following Lyriope’s escape from Nick’s compound in Bishop’s Landing, Queen of Hearts leads us to Tuscany.

Although it’s easy to see their love is fated, Nick and Lyriope’s story is twisted with secrets, lies, and betrayals. In a never ending battle with his inner demons, Nick is ruthless and cunning, not quite emotionally ready for what it means to love Lyriope. Likewise, superficially strong, Lyriope is perpetually at war with herself, fearful she’s following the same trajectory as her mother by falling for Nick.

I really loved this installment of the Wonderland series and the intense affair between our King and Queen. Seeing some of Nick’s layers peeled back and learning his heartbreaking backstory made him that much sėxier. Their story will conclude with Ace of Diamonds and I am already counting the days until its release!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶🌶🌶
Range of Emotions: 😢😊🥵🤬🫣
Ending: Cliffy
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}

🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance

✨ Tropes: Fairytale Retelling, Virgin Alphahole Hero, Forced Proximity

🫦 Kinks: Domination

⛔️ Warning: This book may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care. It’s definitely NSFW or with a kiddo by your side. In fact, I would highly recommend you read this one after dark to avoid side eye or awkward conversations.

⚠️ Safety Squad: If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!

📣 Type: Queen of Hearts is part of the Wonderland series and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.

🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 STARS

Nick Hudson is my addiction. An addiction far greater than any junkie could experience. I know this. I can feel it. But I have no desire to fight the urge any longer.

I've been greedily anticipating the second installment of this trilogy since the painful cliffhanger in book one. I fell hard and fast for Nick in King of Spades. What can I say? I love the slightly psychotic types. Lyriope was super intriguing as the bastard Morelli child. And I couldn't wait to see how everything unfolds.

In book one Lyriope agreed to a contract with Nick to save her life, and then she ran. And I for one couldn't wait to see what happens when Nick caught her. Now admittedly, this piece of the plot felt slightly anticlimactic for me because it resolved itself super quick. I wanted Nick to have a painful search, but as it was, Lyriope didn't plan it well. But given the spiciness of their reunion, I won't be complaining about it much.

While book one brought lots of plot development and kept me at the edge of my seat, this one was slower. It focused on the character development, primarily Nick's, and though intriguing it also felt stretched in parts. All that aside, I still read it in one sitting and was left reeling at the end. While I mostly saw that coming, it was still delicious nonetheless. I can't wait to see how it all concludes.

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

Find me on:

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4 "Never apart again!!!" stars***



"One, two, three...
Ready or not, here I come.
You want to play hide and seek?"

Lyriope run away in order to not cause more trouble to Nick.
But Nick is determined to catch her and he will take great pleasure on her punishment for breaking his rules!!!
What none of them had realized is that the rules of the game had changed for both of them...
Nick is becoming putty in her hands and Lyriope is getting power in her submission!!!
But this weakness that they are feeling toward each other can be turned out deadly for both of them!!!

"You can try to run, but I'll always find you."

I was waiting like crazy to see where this story will lead us and in here, the author gave more focus to the couple and how their feelings started to transform in something grand and once in a lifetime...
Both Lyriope and Nick had fought against their own heart, but cupid's arrows know how to find their marks!!!
Still, their situation is complicated since Lyriope is wanted from many people, but Nick is determined to keep her by his side, no matter the ugly consequences!!!
Unfortunately for them, the 'honeymoon phase' has ended abruptly and now they are about to face a new reality that doesn't include them together!!!

"It's like we're walking on the edge of a cliff, and I'm just waiting for us to fall."

I really liked the second installment of Wonderland series, even though it felt a little bit slower than the first book!!! I just needed a little bit more action to be fully satisfied!!!
Still I enjoyed Nick and Lyriope's crazy journey full of betrayal, secrets, and intensity!!!
Can not wait for the finally part, especially after the cliffy in here!!!
I just need to see what will happen next!!! I'm literally sitting on pins and needles!!!

"Everything's crazy. Everything's madness."

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**

[❁ lilyreadsromance ❁ · Rating 2 out of 5]

So... I might have to rethink whether I want to continue on this series.

My problem with this one is that not only it was boring, it was also cheesy. And sometimes I do think cheesy could be good but this time, it was just unbearable.

[withryelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

— 3 Stars ✩
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

"I danced with the psychotic and dined with the demented. I loved every second of the raving lunatic until I met you."
— Nick, Queen of Hearts by Alta Hensley

The Wonderland Trilogy is a series that I looked forward to this year and can't say I've been disappointed. This second installment follows Lyriope and Nick as they venture throughout Italy and potentially feelings that they've yet to come to terms with. Queen of Hearts, I would say, isn't plot driven but rather character driven, this one heavily emphasises on the emotional development of each of our protagonists and the feelings that they start to develop for one another.

In terms of spice, Alta Hensley has not once failed me and this novel serves as proof of that. I mean, come on, tell me the smut scenes in this book isn't all that. This book drives us closer to the finale of the series and does end on a fantastic cliffhanger. I've yet to here those 3 words, 8 letters from our Nick and you best believe, I'm sticking around for that ;)

Thank you Valentine PR and to the author, Alta Hensley, for providing me with this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Mirjam · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I can't go back to yesterday because I was a different person then.” – Alice
“I will sit with you in the dark.” – Mad Hatter

Queen of Hearts starts right where King of Spades left off.
Lyriope is very much afraid, not only for herself but more for Nick's safety, but of course it does not take long before the Mad Hatter finds his Alice.






Nick is very angry and upset with her, and he finds out that she is hiding in Florence, Italy in the Morelli mansion, personating her cousin Sasha Morelli.
He jets off to Italy without telling anyone, including Harrison his right-hand man. To the rest of the world Nick is in Italy to host a Wonderland.







Nick & Lyriope reconnect, in the most hottest and animalistic way. He moves them to his Italian village and they have themselves an amazing and romantic Italian rendezvous, forgetting the people who are desperately looking for Lyriope.







With Wonderland ready to take off, both Nick and Lyriope are in for some distraught revelations, and betrayal comes from an unlikely source.




ARC provided in exchange for an honest review by

Part of the Wonderland Series and must be read in order

[Diana~ (Kiss Me Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of Hearts is the latest installment in the Wonderland trilogy by Alta Hensley and it exceeded my expectations in terms of character growth, romance, and steaminess. Nick and Lyriope had incredible sexual chemistry and I was not disappointed when they finally took the next step in their relationship. This book immediately picks up where King of Spades last left off, which means that Lyriope has decided to run away from Nick. What ensues is a game of cat and mouse as Nick obsessively stalks Lyriope to Italy and claims her once and for all. Although the plot of the story remains stagnant for much of the book, Nick and Lyriope experience tremendous development as characters and in their own relationship with each other—especially since feelings are now finally involved. In addition to their developing romance, the smut scenes between Nick and Lyriope were incredibly hot, dirty, and even heartbreaking at times. I loved every single scene.

"You belong to me, Lyriope. Not on paper. Not because of an agreement. You belong to me the same way I belong to you.

The story begins with the consequences of Lyriope's decision to run away as Nick is astonished and infuriated over her disappearance. He vows to find Lyriope and punish her for her actions. Lyriope eventually arrives in Italy as her cousin, Sasha Morelli, and immediately regrets her decision. She is afraid and knows that Nick will find her soon—and she is correct. I was honestly quite amused over how fast Nick was able to find Lyriope because she really didn't think this through at all. However, their reunion was everything I expected and more because what transpired between the two had me on the edge of my seat. Nick is just the right amount of cruel and sadistic for Lyriope as he attempts to make her "pay" for leaving him. Despite her innocence, Lyriope knows exactly what and who she wants because meeting Nick has allowed her to blossom not only emotionally but sexually as well.

"This isn't a love story I'm in. I feel like I'm suffocating, but I also have never felt so alive."

In the end, I simply devoured this book and cannot wait to read Ace of Diamonds because the book ends with a heartbreaking cliffhanger. Betrayal, revenge, and redemption will most likely be the main themes for the final book in the Wonderland trilogy as Nick desperately tries to reclaim Lyriope no matter the cost. Lyriope and Nick have finally acknowledged their feelings for each other but unfortunately, there was a major cost. At first, I wasn't sure how I felt about Lyriope and Nick but this book changed everything for me. Furthermore, Lyriope went from this insecure and naive young woman to someone who is willing to finally take control of her destiny and lineage. Nick went from this mysterious and cruel character with the wicked smiles to be someone who had been merely surviving until he met Lyriope and she allowed him to feel once and for all. I recommend this book to those who like reading the dark billionaire romance trope with an anti-hero who considers himself the villain in this story and does everything in his power to keep his heroine.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

[Samantha (bookgramsaga reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

Liked this one a bit more than the first book.

''I will sit with you in the dark''

Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OM/OW drama
- Cliffhanger

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

I think this book had more going for it then book 1 but I still think this whole story could have just been just one whole book, but I know midnight dynasty books are duologies and mainly trilogies.

We got to see how badly Nick has fallen for her but refuses to admit it out loud and even to himself. She kept making stupid decisions in my opinion. Running off to Italy in the last book thinking that would solve any issues? and at the end of this choosing the father who knew of her BUT refused to ever acknowledge her as his own? He wants to use her for his benefit and has no sentimental feeling towards her.

Cora was looking out for him, but she should have noticed how smitten he was and how much she meant to him. I hated her betrayal.

I did enjoy seeing them together and their relationship developing. She finally loses her virginity and the built up to the moment was amazing. Their chemistry was one of the things that kept me going.

One thing I was disappointed in was how her brothers just let their father treat her as an object to sell. I wanted them to at least stand up for her or show some sort of feeling but we barely got anything from them.

[💜VGreedyReader🖤 · Rating 4 out of 5]

★4.30 royal stars★


༯✷༯✷𝘈 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘵 𝘋𝘺𝘯𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 ༯✷༯✷

No matter how far or how fast Lyriope runs, Nick always finds her. She takes off in her attempt to protect his life, however he won’t have her away from him. She will be punished for her misbehaviour as soon as he catches her. However she will soon find out that with each stroke Nick doles out her pleasure grows. They can’t deny their attraction to each other anymore but they also don’t know how to face the consequences of getting up close and personal.

~𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏'𝒕 𝒈𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒅𝒂𝒚 ~

While on the run our two crazy characters begin a new game, they both want to be in control but none of them knows the rules. The path leading down to a slippery slope is driving them towards the unknown.

~𝑶𝒏𝒆, 𝒕𝒘𝒐, 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆... 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒐𝒓 𝒏𝒐𝒕, 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝒉𝒊𝒅𝒆-𝒂𝒏𝒅-𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒌? 𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍, 𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖~

This second instalment is told in dual POV and although I enjoyed watching how the chemistry between Lyriope and Nick exploded I couldn’t help perceiving the action a bit slow compared to the first opus. I feel some repetitions could have been avoided in favour of a fast paced narration and a more substantial plot. The story definitely picks up towards the end, promising a sizzling future journey to Wonderland.

Book two ends on a cliffhanger and I shall look forward to seeing how these two hellions will mange their new unknown and never before felt feels.

[LianaReads blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sworn enemies, Morelli and Constantine are powerful families with members that will fight for anything they want in life.

Whether it’s power, money or love, everything becomes a game.

Sometimes they just take without thinking about consequences, sometimes they get blinded by emotions they never thought existed.

And that’s the case with Nick Hudson. He’s a master at deceiving and creating a world for sinners.

She tried to run away, but he couldn’t let her go so easily. The time spent in the beautiful settings of Italy made me feel like I should visit them soon because all the food and places definitely made me want to wanderlust.

The story is full of spice and bedroom games. But, as usual, all those games have a start and a finish. This is not the end for these two, as there’s another book coming soon in this trilogy.

Arc review

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Morelli and Constantine’s saga is always phenomenal combining wars and family dynamics that are mind boggling but always spectacular!
Nick and Lyriope are finally in a phase of their lives where they are examining their feelings, experimenting with emotion, and deciding if they are brave enough to take the leap into the unknown that is relationships. Their explorations lead them through Italy, ticking off items that are on most peoples bucket lists. And it looks so much like love and hope. But there also inner workings happening behind the scenes, threatening and impeding their happiness.
My heart breaks for Lyriope. All she has ever wanted was to belong somewhere to someone, she is always on the outside looking in.
I can’t wait to see what Nick does to win this war.
❤️❤️❤️❤️

[shereads.pang · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤 ����𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. ⁣
⁣
4.5 Stars. It was 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵, 𝘴𝘦𝘹𝘺, 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥!!!! Wow!!! Finished it in one sitting. I couldn't put it down!!! Nick and Lyriope were 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄!!! 🔥🔥⁣
⁣
It picked up right where King of Spades ended. I was so intrigued by Nick and his side of story. Ugh. Makes me love him even more. Lyriope didn't want to become like her mom, but Nick pulls out a side of her that she wasn't expecting. Full of secrets and betrayals!!! Can't wait for the conclusion!!!⁣
⁣
Did I mention its a dark twist, retell of 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐈𝐧 𝗪𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝?⁣
⁣
Again, this is the second book in the trilogy, so you'll need to read King of Spades first. This trilogy can totally be read as a standalone, but the whole Midnight Dynasty Series is a 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃!!!⁣

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished this book so fast that I finished it in just one sitting. Nick and Lyriope’s story continues after she ran away from him. He, of course, found her because she's his as he said. Nick is still himself but he definitely shows his care and feelings for Lyriope in his own ways. I especially loved the tattoos they got. But their story quickly took a dark turn when the people they're running from got to Lyriope again. Whew, what a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the conclusion to their story.

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can't believe I'm going to say this but I'm glad the third book isn't published yet because I honestly have no more patience for these 2 😅

Rounding 2.5 to 3 because the final cliffhanger was good considering all the other pages!

..So in this book Lyriope fled to Italy under the identity of her cousin Sasha Morelli and obviously it didn't take Nick long to find his new obsession.... She managed to hide, what, 2 chapters?

The first few chapters were rather rushed because we don't care much about reading about Lyriope being alone in Italy or developing Nick's angst without her.... Who cares!! Obviously what we want to keep reading is the whole repetitive cycle that was the last book (irony):

Lyriope begs Nick to take her virginity instead of having anal, but to no avail. After sex Nick is super romantic with her and it turns out he's actually a good guy, then Lyriope breaks the rules set by Nick (lol) and is threatened and/or is punished, so it turns out Nick is a bad guy, but she wants to fuck him regardless because they're both obsessed and we're back to the beginning: she begs him to take her virginity,.....

Baaah! Also Nick is badly characterised as an underworld boss. Okay, love makes you fool, but so melodramatic? I'm not buying it!

Read as part of the Midnight Dynasty Collection. Read so far:
1. Skyscraper Cinderella Trilogy (K. Webster)
2. Starcrossed Lovers Trilogy (Jade West)
3. Beast of Bishops Landing (Amelia Wilde)
4. Dark Hearts Trilogy (M. O'keefe)
5. Lessons in Sin (Pam Godwin)
6. Wicked Idol, Hellfire Club (Becker Gray)
7. Dark Dream Duet (Giana Darling)
8. The Collector Trilogy (Amelia Wilde)
9. Deception Duet (K. Webster)
10. Wonderland Trilogy (Alta Hensley)
   *missing Ace of Diamonds to be released on Oct22*

[Read What I Like Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

QUEEN OF HEARTS (WONDERLAND BOOK TWO)

Release Date: 07/05/22
Kindle Unlimited: [ ]YES [X]NO
Stand-alone: [ ]YES [X]NO
Number of pages: 168
Author: Alta Hensley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Couple: Lyriope & Nick
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes: billionaire; antihero; fairytale retelling; forced proximity

Review:

“𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘮𝘦?”

“𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺. 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘰𝘧𝘧 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

When Lyriope decides to take her problems away from Nick she didn’t know the extension of his obsession.
In Queen of Hearts we see their relationship grow. I loved all their moments together and their newfound intimacy, emotional and physical. Let me tell you, Alta rose the temperature in this book and the hot scenes are incredible!
My favorite part of the book was the characters emotional growth. Mainly Lyriope’s. She starts as this naive and afraid young woman, but by the end of the book I was her fan. And Nick… it was great to know more about the man behind the wicked smiles.
I can’t wait for the conclusion of their stories in Ace of Diamonds.

*** I received an advanced copy of Queen of Hearts and this is my honest opinion. ***

[booksandbubbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great installment of this series!! I lost love Nick Hudson so much and Lyriope really stepped into her own in this book. I love their back and forth and their chemistry is so hot! And we got a lot of plot advancement and I was here for it. Loved these two falling for each other inspite of themselves. And that ending! Can’t wait for more!

[Rina | booksofthemuggleborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4 stars!

**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**

This story has delved deeper and deeper into Wonderland, I’ve become more and more invested in seeing how it will all come together for Lyriope and Nick.

I love my fairy tales but I’ve never been big on Alice in Wonderland. But Hensley’s clever take on the classic tale has definitely turned my head upside-down! 🙃 I’ve nibbled on the mushroom, eaten a huge hunk of the cake, and taken a good gulp of that “drink me” potion. I am all in with the unpredictable Wonderland that Hensley has so marvellously re-imagined for her own story. This second book has amped up the stakes with plenty more suspense, new set of twists and turns, along with another intricate layer added to Lyriope and Nick’s relationship.

It’s fast-paced storytelling, and a relatively quick read to get through. It concludes on an unbelievably jaw-dropping ending that had me cursing the book gods for the cruel, yet enticing peek at what can be expected from the third and final instalment of the trilogy.

What started out as a mutually beneficial deal between Lyriope and Nick, has turned into a maze of emotions, careless actions, and risky outcomes. The Morellis and the Constantines, along with a new rival have finally caught up with Nick’s illustrious world, and are making grand moves to ensure only one empire holds all the cards.

Because of these new developments the story has taken a darker turn with this book containing sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some readers. Kidnapping, graphic violence, and overall domineering actions take place. It’s intended for readers 18+ only, and also includes strong sexual content.

As the story hits the nitty-gritty, these leading characters displayed a lot more growth, which is a welcoming depth to the overall narrative and world-building. Both Lyriope and Nick are complex characters who’ve each experienced tragedy in their past that have ultimately caused personal hang-ups. But despite all their issues, there’s a sense of cohesiveness to their partnership that I was slowly but surely embracing as more time passed.

Besides the angsty yet blistering romance, the group dynamic amongst Nick’s close-knit circle was a surprising but nevertheless interesting highlight within. The secondary characters were on-point; having a diverse range of personalities that I adored seeing, whether they were morally grey characters or not.

Hensley has not only sucked me into this lavish world of make-believe, with the extravagant backdrops and dreamy promises of HEAs, but her storytelling was effortless to follow and instantaneously drew me in. I admittedly was on the fence after reading King Of Spades, not entirely sure whether I liked the premise or the leading characters for that matter, but I’m relieved I hadn’t prematurely closed the book on this trilogy because Queen Of Hearts cemented my emotional and mental need to finish Lyriope’s and Nick’s story.

At first glance, I hadn’t considered it to be such a headliner of a story, yet Wonderland and having a secret Morelli heir and a man of endless possibilities making waves amongst two powerful warring families has added a new element to the world of the Midnight Dynasty, and an entertaining and edgy new playing field for new and existing characters.

It’s drama-filled with the perfect amount of danger thrown in. It’s another fitting display of the twisted and ruthless families. This book has a gradual uneasiness that culminates on a noteworthy ending. I’m loving this newest addition and cannot wait to read Ace Of Diamonds. It’s a must-read for fans following the Morellis and Constantines, and for readers who are intrigued by this modern, twisted Alice in Wonderland-inspired dark romance. The majority of the book focuses on Lyriope and Nick’s lustful romance with the story told from dual POVs, but it still has a nail-biting atmosphere with suspenseful plotlines in place that will evoke some deep emotion out of you.

Please note, it is a continuous storyline and book one; King Of Spades must be read first before diving into this second part.

🚨 Full review on my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

TICKTOCK, SAYS THE RABBIT

The second story in the Wonderland series will pick up when book one left off, where Nick's home turf is under attack, and Lyriope decides it is best if she leaves, blaming herself for what has happened. The story keeps the pages turning as this tale unfolds. The good is bad, the bad is good, and trust is deceived. Lyriope is a pawn in a game she doesn't know how to play. Nick has become obsessed with her, allowing him to let his guard down.

The story is far from over; the players are starting to be revealed. The chemistry between Nick and Lyriope goes from strangers to lovers—but the madness of it all will come crashing in on them. Bad, evil, and powerful all want Lyriope as a pawn in this chess game. She has fallen down the rabbit hole and is still up in the air where she will land.

I have decided to share some quotes from the story—and trust me, the story is intense, on a razor edge of danger, power, control, and who wins is anyone's guess. This story is far from over-- the tale has only just begun—truly Alta Hensley style! There will be more books in the series. Cliffhanger, kind of, but definitely more to look forward to. We'll learn the answer to that question in the final installment—Ace of Diamond, in October 2022.

"Ever since you met this woman, you haven't been yourself. You're off your game. The Nick Hudson I know would have seen this attack and kidnapping a mile away. You would have been waiting with gun in hand."

"She forced me to become the hunter and she the prey."

"Nick Hudson is my addition. An addiction far greater than any junkie could experience. I know this. But I have no desire to fight the urge any longer."

"My life is most certainly changed. That's for sure. I just don't know what happens next in my life. I don't know what changes are coming next."

"Nothing can become of this. Nothing at all. We live in two different worlds. He represents everything powerful and rich, and I'm simply the imposter who accidentally fell into this world."

"I'm trying to follow the rules of his game, because I desperately want to keep playing it."

"You can't save me, Nick. I have to face my reality. I have to stop looking in from the outside, but actually enter the looking glass. It's time. It's long past time. I have a past to face, and a future to find. Right now. This very minute, you're clouding the view of both. The girl you met at the Morelli party would not have been ready to do this. But the woman I am now—because of you—is."

[Jackie (Jackie's Book World) · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World. :)***

“I will sit with you in the dark.”- Mad Hatter

As the second book in the Wonderland Trilogy, Queen of Hearts by Alta Hensley is an addicting and page-turning scorching romance that will leave you waiting for more.

The story picks up right where it left off in King of Spades with Lyriope Bailey making the hard decision to leave Nick Hudson before he gets caught in the middle of the Constantine and Morelli war. As the bastard child of Bryant Morelli, all Lyriope wanted was to get to know the family that she desperately wanted. It’s soon enough that she realizes that being a Morelli is dangerous even for her and asking Nick Hudson for help should have solved her problems. Yet, being involved with Nick means that he wants something from her that only she can give. What she got in return for being with him is to see the Nick that not everyone gets to see.

Leaving for Italy should have put distance between them, but she shouldn’t have underestimated Nick. No matter how far she runs, he is right behind her. She has caused him pain and she is going to pay for what she put him through. There is a different side to him that she is about to see, the possessive one that is ready to claim her as his. Bailey is ready to meet him at every turn and it’s just when they’re ready to give their relationship a shot that a new obstacle comes their way. One that could threaten to tear them apart for good.

I absolutely loved reading Queen of Hearts! We get to see Lyriope and Nick’s chemistry heighten to another level in the second book and see them start to fully trust in each other. We also get to see a new side of Nick, a dark and possessive side that wants to claim her as his. The tattoo scene was my favorite! The ending was unexpected, a totally twist in events that had me at the edge of my seat. I can’t wait to read the conclusion to the trilogy! A must-read!

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

[PP's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are diving deep into the jealous possessive alpha antihero side of Nick Hudson in Queen of Hearts by Alta Hensley. And we are also discovering the soft underbelly of the beast as Lyriope Morelli will slay him with her fierce and sweet heart.

Lyriope Morelli was in trouble and Nick Hudson helped her but she had to enter into a contract with him. Nick owns her body and soul now. But she ran away by miracle to save Nick from getting into a messy battle with people who wants to use her as a pawn in a game of power and money. But Nick isn't a man who let go his possessions so easily. He tracks her to Italy and they have a wonderful filthy time there until the enemies come calling. Nick may be the master of Wonderland, the most lavish and debauched and powerful parties around but his back is at the wall now.

I loved the transition in Nick's character here. He is still an antihero. He oozes confidence and arrogance and power. He is still merciless and ruthless even with Lyriope. But she has unlocked his cold heart and exposed the part that cares. In his possessive protective dark way obviously. Nick ticks all the checkboxes of a great alpha hero for me. He has that violent powerful presence that is irresistible when combined with his swoony side. Lyriope matured a lot too. Rather the circumstances pushed her to get harder. She still holds sweetness and innocence but Nick has corrupted her thoroughly or made her realise that there is a deviant part hidden in her heart. It was deliciously sizzling hot and you don't have to worry about the passion at all. The majority of the story is set in beautiful locations of Italy and it was like a dreamy escape for them.The twists at the end made my jaw drop. I didn't expect that at all. Now I cannot wait to see Nick Hudson unleash his fury and burn the whole world down for his woman.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily

[Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will sit with you in the dark. ~ Mad Hatter
I can’t go back to yesterday because I was a different person then. ~ Alice

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶🌶🌶.5

“And just like that, I fall in love. Hard, obsessive, suffocating love. A love that will never go away just as this tattoo will stay with me forever. Two tattoos that speak volumes for who we are, what we are, and how we will be. He captured us perfectly. He marked us with our reality. He declared it so. He will sit with me in the dark, and we can’t go back to yesterday.”

Wow! What an exciting and seductive continuation of Nick and Lyriope’s story. Their relationship has morphed into something totally unexpected and intense, but because and despite their circumstances they each have a desire to keep the other safe. When Lyriope sees an opening to run she does all the way to Italy to protect Nick. Nick - will ALWAYS find her, and he does just that. Bad girls who run get punished and Nick issues her a delightfully dirty sentence. However, The Morellis, The Constantine’s, The Sidyrov’s all want “the bastard daughter” of Bryant Morelli, but why? The only one who really sees her, cares for her, and wants to posses her without owning her is Nick. Which is why he’s turned into someone he doesn’t recognize and flew across the world to find her. He’ll do anything to keep her safe and when he’s betrayed to get her away from him she puts up a wall to push Nick away. Never once revealing the traitor amongst him. That wall isn’t strong enough to keep him from starting a war to get back his Alice, his Queen of Hearts and I for one am ready to see it all burn for these two to be happy. I hope the Underworld of Bishop’s Landing is ready for the Mad Hatter of Wonderland to truly GO MAD!

[Karen_Lee_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of Hearts
(Wonderland #2)
Written by: Alta Hensley

Oh my dear Lyriope, you can run darling but he will find you!

”I will sit with you in the dark. ~ Mad Hatter”

As we enter the world of Wonderland once again Author Alta Hensley has finally sent us all down her rabbit hole of mayhem and crazy.

Having run from the Morelli’s and Nick Hudson, Lyriope is now in hiding…well that’s what she believes but as we know no one is ever safe from those who reside in Bishop’s Landing.

Alta Hensley has done a superb job taking our Queen of Hearts and our King of Spades on an adventure that will either bring them together or tear them apart. Considering the outside forces Lyriope and Nick have to face, we must decide who do we want to see Lyriope with, Nick who may never admit why he needs her or her family who more than likely wants to use her.

With their hot steamy relationship and both of them wondering where this relationship is leading to it seems inevitable that there will be some kind of explosion.

”I can’t go back to yesterday because I was a different person then. ~ Alice”

This story is so full of twists and turns that you begin to think falling down that rabbit hole set us right in the middle of a labyrinth. As for trust, do not trust anyone other than Nick dear Lyriope; give him a chance to show you who he really is. Hensley’s done an amazing job with this couple, the growth, the emotions, at times it’s heartbreaking to see how damaged both Lyriope and Nick are.

You will scream, you will yell, you will swear but you will also be ready for Ace of Diamonds ~ where the Tea Parties end and the games are about to begin.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don’t you hate it when you read a book and the words for a review don’t come easy. That normally happens when stories are angsty and all-consuming, but sometimes it happens, especially in trilogies, because there’s literally nothing to say that won’t give away the plot of a story. The middle book in a trilogy always kills me LOL Every time I try to say one thing or another about what I read it either gives away something from the previous book or something that happened with the current book and either way it makes me #twitchy! So here I am, stuck trying to review and … *crickets*

One thing I can say is that I really like this story so far. Nick & Lyriope have both grown as individuals and as a couple. Their chemistry continues to sizzle, and the storyline continues to grow realistically, even tho you can pretty much see what’s coming before it comes. So far, I’ve enjoyed reading about Nick & Lyriope and I’m looking forward to seeing how Alta concludes this journey. There are still a whole bunch of circumstances that could blow this storyline to pieces and that excites me because I honestly don’t know what direction Alta will take with Ace of Diamonds!!

[Amy [Book Addict Reviews] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyriope can run, but she can’t hide. Especially from Nick.

I loved getting more of just Lyriope and Nick and seeing their relationship grow and actually become something real. The connection they are forming with each other was not something either of them expected, but you just can’t deny the chemistry that these two have with each other.

I loved getting to see a different side of Nick throughout this story. The man be dangerous and ruthless, but there is also a somewhat softer and sweeter side to him. I loved seeing the growth in Lyriope. She still has some naiveness and innocence to her, but she is starting to get a little smart and maybe a little corrupt thanks to Nick showing her a different side to things.

Even though they may be in the beautiful Italian countryside the dangers of their lives outside of the little bubble they created are still out there and still a threat. I can’t wait to see how their story ends.

If you’re looking for a dark, antihero, fairytale retelling this is one to check out.

[Katherine Ramos · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG WHAT DID I JUST READ?? THE CHOKEHOLD THIS BOOK HAD ME IN WAS PHENOMENAL, I CANT THINK STRAIGHT.

This book was on the slow pace for the first 2/3 but the last 4-5 chapters were so good!! The cliffhanger in this book is better than book 1.

I love that we see Nick and Lyriope’s relationship develop to an actual relationship, no contract in the middle. Nick was a big softie!!! I didn’t see that coming, I thought he was going to be plain but he is so romantic. And Lyriope did grow a lot throughout the book, she became so strong, and I DEFINITELY knew that I hated Cora since book 1 but she outdid herself in this one. Lyriope deserves revenge.

ARC provided in exchange of my honest opinion

[A Rush Of Emotions · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounded up!

I loved this book but needed it to be longer! I love Nick and Lyriope's connection so damn much! They're not desperately in love, but their connection makes me believe that when they finally do go all-in, they'll be perfect.

This book fits seamlessly into the Midnight Dynasty bookworld.

I would have ranked this one higher, but I ended up giving it 3.75 because it was a little short and I wish a little more happened in this book. But considering the length, it makes sense. Here's hoping that book 3 gives us more oomph and a finale worthy of this book world. I have no doubt that it will!

[Melissa ❤️ bookaddict_fanatic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of Hearts picks up right where the previous book left off, with Lyriope fleeing from Nick. Does Nick let her go......hell no and oh does it get good!!!

“You belong to me, Lyriope. Not on paper. Not because of an agreement. You belong to me the same way I belong to you.”

Oh these two, they had me hanging on every interaction they shared. We saw a side of Nick he doesn't let anyone see, for Lyriope he bared those scars. Lyriope has fears that she's never voiced to anyone, yet opened up to Nick. Watching their relationship build and the chemistry blaze was sexy as sin but of course nothing good lasts when there are people wanting to tear it apart.

"And just like that, I fall in love. Hard, obsessive, suffocating love. A love that will never go away just as this tattoo will stay with me forever."

OH MY GAWDDDD THAT ENDING!!!!! The lies, the betrayals, the secrets, the snakes....... MIND-BLOWN to say the least and that just means that book 3 is going to be AH-MAZE-ING!!!

[Kelly G (Now Accepting Book Boyfriend Applications) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ahhhhh! Ok that cliffy got me! I am enraged now! And um.... HELLO SWOONY AF NICK!!! What the heck happened to him? It's like losing her for that short amount of time, flipped the switch on how he saw her! He just can't actually admit that he loves her. 😞 And given the upbringing she has had you know that is all she wants! Is to be loved! Well I am totally on pins and needles waiting for the conclusion! I need for these 2 to get their HEA!


Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔💔

[Nina ~ Meleth Bookaddicted ~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

QUEEN OF HEARTS was an enjoyable read and I was flying through the pages. And yet … yet. Something was missing during their wild tour through Italy and tons of se*capades. Some more character and relationship development maybe? Some deeper emotional connection? All of the above? I’m not sure. However, I’m still holding out hope that I will love the third and last book as much as I did the second. I’m not giving up just yet, lol.