The Kingdom by Jess Rothenberg
Disney is given a chillingly sinister makeover in this futuristic thriller where a murder threatens to reveal the dark truth behind a dazzling fantasy theme park.
Glimmering like a jewel behind its gateway, The Kingdom™ is an immersive fantasy theme park where guests soar on virtual dragons, castles loom like giants, and bioengineered species - formerly extinct - roam free.
Ana, a half-human, half-android princess, is tasked with entertaining visitors and making wishes come true, but when she meets park employee Owen, Ana finds herself experiencing emotions and romantic feelings despite her programming. But when Ana is accused of murder, the fairytale dream of 'Happily Ever After' quickly turns into a threatening nightmare. Igniting a trial of the century, Jess Rothenberg boldly challenges what it actually means to be human, and can you ever be found guilty of murder if you're not.
Told through court testimonies, interrogation records, and fragmented flashbacks, The Kingdom is an impressive and thought-provoking story about power, desire, and the topical exploration of technology and humanity.