Just finished Wicked? Next up read Malice…
Remember how Wicked turned the Wicked Witch into a relatable anti-heroine, challenging our views on good and evil? Malice does something similar with the Sleeping Beauty myth, centering on Alyce, a half-human, half-fairy outcast whose dark powers make her an outsider in a kingdom obsessed with beauty and grace. Heather Walter crafts a richly atmospheric world where magic comes at a cost, and Alyce's growing romance with Princess Aurora adds layers of queer tension and emotional depth, much like the nuanced relationships in Gregory Maguire's Oz.
"The old woman next door beating her morphine addiction before dying was such a beautiful lesson and worked so well with the themes in the book. TKAM remains the best classic in my mind."— bweaver94, Reddit
It's a fresh take that echoes Wicked's themes of prejudice and rebellion without retreading the same yellow brick road, making it an ideal next read for those craving more empowered, morally gray female leads. What sets Malice apart is its blend of dark humor and political satire, poking at societal norms around beauty, power, and identity in a way that feels timely yet timeless.
Readers who enjoyed Wicked's ensemble cast and bittersweet tone will appreciate the supporting characters here—from scheming royals to fellow magical misfits—who form a sort of found family amid the intrigue. Published in 2021, it's accessible for both fantasy newcomers and seasoned fans, with a pace that builds from quiet character moments to high-stakes drama, ensuring you stay hooked without overwhelming twists.
"Viciously satisfying. Malice takes Sleeping Beauty and turns everything on its head, cutting right to the core of this bejewelled world. Heather Walter has given us a villain to adore."— Chloe Gong, Goodreads
A Deliciously Dark Origin Story
Overall, if Wicked left you pondering the blurred lines between hero and villain, Malice will satisfy that itch while introducing a sapphic romance that adds extra sparkle. It's not as sprawling as some epics, but its focused narrative delivers big on empowerment and whimsy with a gritty edge, perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon.
