You’ve Never Seen “Wicked” Like This. “West of Wicked ”Brings a Little Spice to Oz — Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

‘West of Wicked’ Presents a New Twist to the Classic Tale of Oz

A unique and thrilling reimagining of the beloved story of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ has emerged, promising readers a fresh perspective on the mystical land of Oz. Nikki St. Crowe’s upcoming book, ‘West of Wicked’, set to be released in the spring of 2026 by Bramble, is set to tantalise fans of the Wicked universe with its dark and intriguing narrative. This exclusive preview shared with PEOPLE offers a glimpse into a narrative where traditional roles are turned on their heads, and unexpected characters take the spotlight.

The tale follows Dorothy Gale, whose mysterious past is shrouded in ambiguity. After being mysteriously delivered to Em and Henry during a fierce storm in Kansas, Dorothy finds herself transported to the enigmatic realm of Oz following a cyclone that whisks her away along with her faithful companion Toto. In this twisted version of Oz, Dorothy encounters a cursed and foreboding landscape, where she must navigate the truth of her origins amidst the menacing presence of the mercenary Tin Man, while seeking assistance from the enigmatic Scarecrow.

The narrative unfolds in a dark and unsettling manner, with Dorothy experiencing a series of peculiar and ominous events. From her disorienting physical state, marked by injuries and a fragmented reflection in a cracked mirror, to the sudden appearance of a mysterious woman named Delphine, who claims the title of Witch of the East and asserts control over the lands where Dorothy has found herself stranded. The tension builds as Delphine’s hostile intentions become clear, culminating in a startling confrontation that leaves Dorothy grappling with the inexplicable turn of events.

As the story progresses, readers are drawn into a world where familiar characters are redefined, and the boundaries between ally and adversary blur. Through Crowe’s evocative prose and intricate storytelling, ‘West of Wicked’ promises to transport readers to a realm where darkness and mystery converge, offering a fresh take on a beloved narrative. With its riveting plot and complex characters, this reimagining of Oz is poised to captivate audiences and challenge conventional perceptions of this iconic tale.

The captivating excerpt shared with PEOPLE provides a glimpse into the richly layered narrative crafted by Nikki St. Crowe. From the vivid descriptions of Dorothy’s physical and emotional turmoil to the chilling introduction of Delphine, the Witch of the East, every detail serves to immerse readers in a world where magic and danger coexist. As Dorothy grapples with her newfound reality and confronts the enigmatic forces at play, the stage is set for an enthralling journey that defies expectations and invites readers to reconsider the familiar story of Oz in a new light.

With its compelling premise and inventive approach to storytelling, ‘West of Wicked’ stands out as a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre and lovers of reimagined classics. Nikki St. Crowe’s masterful reimagining of Oz promises to deliver a tale that is as enchanting as it is unsettling, drawing readers into a realm where adventure and intrigue intertwine. As the release date of ‘West of Wicked’ approaches, anticipation mounts for the unveiling of a narrative that promises to challenge and delight in equal measure.