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Freckled Fate #1
A Broken Promise
“Finn has lost everything – her family, her love and her purpose. Betrayed and sold into slavery, she existed awaiting her end... Until she was mistakenly taken for a Magic Wielder and gifted to the brutal, blood thirsty Destroyer General to be tortured and killed.
Surrounded by her enemies, Finn makes a promise.
One she will fight to keep.”
A Broken Promise is a 1st book in a slow burn, enemies-to-lovers dark fantasy-romance series The Freckled Fate .
Authors Please note this book contains mature content and is best suited for 18+.
For more Please visit the website www.Bakumovka.com
Surrounded by her enemies, Finn makes a promise.
One she will fight to keep.”
A Broken Promise is a 1st book in a slow burn, enemies-to-lovers dark fantasy-romance series The Freckled Fate .
Authors Please note this book contains mature content and is best suited for 18+.
For more Please visit the website www.Bakumovka.com
326 pages, Paperback
Published April 30, 2023
2851 people are currently reading
23427 people want to read
About the author
Tetyana Walker
5 books244 followersTetyana was born and raised in Kyiv, Ukraine. In 2012, she moved to Utah, USA to attend Ensign college and pursue a degree in business. She is now a proud wife and a mother with a successful career in software sales.
Tetyana has had a strong passion for reading ever since she was a kid. But her world completely changed when she read the Harry Potter series at the age of 8 and discovered the world of fantasy. She hasn’t looked back since. Now, as a self-published fantasy-romance author, Tetyana looks forward to helping other authors on their journey. She named her publishing company after a tiny rural Ukrainian village in Kyivska Oblast’ where she spent her summers growing up. With no internet or cell service or even indoor plumbing, Tetyana spent her summer days helping her grandparents take care of their small farm while spending any free time outside reading. “Bakumovka stands for more than a small village to me. It stands for a place of peace and magic. A place where imagination runs wild and free. A place of comfort and love.” Tetyana says.
Tetyana has had a strong passion for reading ever since she was a kid. But her world completely changed when she read the Harry Potter series at the age of 8 and discovered the world of fantasy. She hasn’t looked back since. Now, as a self-published fantasy-romance author, Tetyana looks forward to helping other authors on their journey. She named her publishing company after a tiny rural Ukrainian village in Kyivska Oblast’ where she spent her summers growing up. With no internet or cell service or even indoor plumbing, Tetyana spent her summer days helping her grandparents take care of their small farm while spending any free time outside reading. “Bakumovka stands for more than a small village to me. It stands for a place of peace and magic. A place where imagination runs wild and free. A place of comfort and love.” Tetyana says.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 548 reviews
February 3, 2024
The beginning of the book was probably the best part.. after Finn’s escape it was bland, there’s no romance in any part of the book, Chapter 24 had characters that you didn’t know who they were and made no sense until the very end. Skimmed through to the end just to finish the book..
August 21, 2025
Priya I love you.
June 13, 2023
I absolutely LOVED how part 1 of the book was written. It was straight to the point but also delved into some extra details and whatnot which made the story interesting and made me really feel for Finn.
Part 2 I found was dragging on far too much. I found the characters very one dimensional. Priya is a bitch with no redeeming qualities; which is fair considering her horrible past, but I didn’t even want to find a reason to like her because she was so unnecessarily rude and cruel to the only person that showed her any real friendship. And Florian is a major flirt who doesn’t show any feelings except being horny.
I would’ve appreciated delving a little deeper into how Finn felt about her friends, or her thoughts about them so I could get a better understanding of their relationships; I feel we only saw very little of this and was taken aback a little bit when Finn and Florian had seemed to have built such a close relationship, with Florian even begging Finn to stay at his house to prevent her from leaving. What I saw of their relationship was just shallow and innocent flirting because why not? They had no real connection imo.
I do think it was great that we got to see that Finn was trying to build a life for herself whilst still suffering from her trauma, and trying to push through that. It was interesting to see how her past resulted in her becoming ‘numb’ when assassinating people, it made sense!
Part 3 was definitely better compared to part 2 for me! Though I still don’t think it was as strong as part one. I liked the build of of Finn waking in the Rebel camp and finding out that the commander was in fact a Rebel.
Overall, I think that this was an amazing debut book. The author definitely has a LOT of potential. It’ll be interesting to see how she progresses her writing in the future! I’ll be keeping an eye out for sure <3
Part 2 I found was dragging on far too much. I found the characters very one dimensional. Priya is a bitch with no redeeming qualities; which is fair considering her horrible past, but I didn’t even want to find a reason to like her because she was so unnecessarily rude and cruel to the only person that showed her any real friendship. And Florian is a major flirt who doesn’t show any feelings except being horny.
I would’ve appreciated delving a little deeper into how Finn felt about her friends, or her thoughts about them so I could get a better understanding of their relationships; I feel we only saw very little of this and was taken aback a little bit when Finn and Florian had seemed to have built such a close relationship, with Florian even begging Finn to stay at his house to prevent her from leaving. What I saw of their relationship was just shallow and innocent flirting because why not? They had no real connection imo.
I do think it was great that we got to see that Finn was trying to build a life for herself whilst still suffering from her trauma, and trying to push through that. It was interesting to see how her past resulted in her becoming ‘numb’ when assassinating people, it made sense!
Part 3 was definitely better compared to part 2 for me! Though I still don’t think it was as strong as part one. I liked the build of of Finn waking in the Rebel camp and finding out that the commander was in fact a Rebel.
Overall, I think that this was an amazing debut book. The author definitely has a LOT of potential. It’ll be interesting to see how she progresses her writing in the future! I’ll be keeping an eye out for sure <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2024
The synopsis of this book pertained to ONLY the last 10%. The whole 90% of Finn and Priya just seemed so absolutely unnecessary. If she’s a part of the upcoming series, fine. But the countless pages of them just talking shit to one another was useless. Wasn’t even good banter. And while I’m not entirely sure of the time frame this takes place, the verbiage and slang was just off. I can’t NOT finish a book. But this was truly a bad read with very little to look forward to.
July 19, 2023
Rating: 3.5⭐
Let me begin by saying I really liked this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading romantic fantasy. I came across the author's Facebook post offering the ebook for free. I didn't have high expectations but decided to give it a chance. I'm glad that I did, as this series shows great promise and serves as an impressive debut novel.
The book is divided into three parts, and the first part immediately captivated my interest. The second part may have fallen a bit flat if it weren't for the unhinged events. Fortunately, the final part of the book redeemed it entirely, leaving me craving the second book especially after reading the last line. I predicted that "detail" but I didn't expect it to be left with a mere statement.
The narrative primarily revolves around the FMC, Finn, her past, and her personal growth. I was captivated by the way her character developed throughout the story. However, I felt that the focus on Finn might have been slightly excessive. I found myself wanting to know more about the MMC, Gideon. While there were a few chapters from Gideon's point of view, it wasn't enough to gain a deeper understanding of his character.
I believe the book would have benefitted from delving further into the world-building aspects. More insight into the workings of the government and the hierarchy of different social classes, along with a history of the rebels, the actions that earned the mad queen her notorious title and the events that triggered the rebellion, would have enriched the overall reading experience. I understand that this is only the first book in the series, and I don't expect to have all the details, but, personally, additional information on these aspects would have contributed to a more immersive world-building experience. And I think Gideon's POV would have been a great way to explain these. I hope the next book would properly address these aspects
One thing that might disappoint readers is the slow-burn romance. I personally don't mind this type of romance; however, others who are drawn to the story for the romance aspect might feel let down. But, according to the author there will be more romance and spice in the next books, which I'm very much anticipating. Side note: the author is really kind and friendly :) I had a bit of an exchange with her.
Although, I wanted to have more details on certain aspects in order to have a better grasp of the world and Gideon, I can't deny that this book impressed me with its captivating storyline and promising main characters. It sets the stage for an exciting series with ample potential for further growth and depth. If you enjoy romantic fantasy with a great plot and can look past the little to no romance, I encourage you to give this book a read.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Rating Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
Let me begin by saying I really liked this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading romantic fantasy. I came across the author's Facebook post offering the ebook for free. I didn't have high expectations but decided to give it a chance. I'm glad that I did, as this series shows great promise and serves as an impressive debut novel.
The book is divided into three parts, and the first part immediately captivated my interest. The second part may have fallen a bit flat if it weren't for the unhinged events. Fortunately, the final part of the book redeemed it entirely, leaving me craving the second book especially after reading the last line. I predicted that "detail" but I didn't expect it to be left with a mere statement.
The narrative primarily revolves around the FMC, Finn, her past, and her personal growth. I was captivated by the way her character developed throughout the story. However, I felt that the focus on Finn might have been slightly excessive. I found myself wanting to know more about the MMC, Gideon. While there were a few chapters from Gideon's point of view, it wasn't enough to gain a deeper understanding of his character.
I believe the book would have benefitted from delving further into the world-building aspects. More insight into the workings of the government and the hierarchy of different social classes, along with a history of the rebels, the actions that earned the mad queen her notorious title and the events that triggered the rebellion, would have enriched the overall reading experience. I understand that this is only the first book in the series, and I don't expect to have all the details, but, personally, additional information on these aspects would have contributed to a more immersive world-building experience. And I think Gideon's POV would have been a great way to explain these. I hope the next book would properly address these aspects
One thing that might disappoint readers is the slow-burn romance. I personally don't mind this type of romance; however, others who are drawn to the story for the romance aspect might feel let down. But, according to the author there will be more romance and spice in the next books, which I'm very much anticipating. Side note: the author is really kind and friendly :) I had a bit of an exchange with her.
Although, I wanted to have more details on certain aspects in order to have a better grasp of the world and Gideon, I can't deny that this book impressed me with its captivating storyline and promising main characters. It sets the stage for an exciting series with ample potential for further growth and depth. If you enjoy romantic fantasy with a great plot and can look past the little to no romance, I encourage you to give this book a read.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Rating Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
August 25, 2024
Not for me
Finn was wishy washy with her morals which was really frustrating.. goes from caring deeply for everyone and being big on forgiveness and then started murdering people in cold blood bffr. She was not built to be an assassin and trying to frame her character in that way is kind of a joke.
Priya was the worst and genuinely horrible the whole time. She’s a mean mean girl and the fact that Finn cared about her is insane. She’s not a nice person and has no redeeming qualities.
The story line with that f*ckboy friend was cute because everyone needs a pal. As much as I love cats the kitten bit was strange?
Gideon playing games with Finn when she thought she was such a tough guy was hilarious. FMC was supposed to be taken seriously and I just could not.
I could not overlook to out of era language. It was fine for the first part of the book but using words like period, cars, and b**bs in a fantasy novel is so wack. It it was an urban fantasy I would get it but this was not urban. Unless I missed something.
Cheers to the author on her debut novel but just not for me!
Finn was wishy washy with her morals which was really frustrating.. goes from caring deeply for everyone and being big on forgiveness and then started murdering people in cold blood bffr. She was not built to be an assassin and trying to frame her character in that way is kind of a joke.
Priya was the worst and genuinely horrible the whole time. She’s a mean mean girl and the fact that Finn cared about her is insane. She’s not a nice person and has no redeeming qualities.
The story line with that f*ckboy friend was cute because everyone needs a pal. As much as I love cats the kitten bit was strange?
Gideon playing games with Finn when she thought she was such a tough guy was hilarious. FMC was supposed to be taken seriously and I just could not.
I could not overlook to out of era language. It was fine for the first part of the book but using words like period, cars, and b**bs in a fantasy novel is so wack. It it was an urban fantasy I would get it but this was not urban. Unless I missed something.
Cheers to the author on her debut novel but just not for me!
February 11, 2024
DNF. I gave up on page 116. There is no plot, and there is no background on the characters or the world whatsoever. I kept waiting for the pivotal info on what is driving the MC but while bathrooms are described in vivid detail (twice), we are completely in the dark about anything at all regarding the MCs history, family, and world she lives in. The first few chapters were really good, but unfortunately, after that there’s just nothing to qualify as a story.
August 14, 2025
FMC - Finn: 4 🌟
MMC - Gideon: 3 🌟 (mostly because he's not featured much, so I don't have a lot to go off of)
SPICE: 🌶
LIKES: Finn is a strong and determined woman, a fighter, and I respect the drive that she has to seek revenge and help those that need it. Priya is also a really enjoyable character, and Finn learned a lot from her. And Florian might be my favorite thing about the book :p
DISLIKES: To me, the story started off strong. Like I said, Finn is a fighter. She's scrappy. But after her escape from the General, I had less and less interest in the plot. You meet Priya and Florian, and they're both a lot of fun, but I was pretty bored with the story until the last 10 chapters or so.
I saw the plot twist in the end coming from a mile away. There were a few moments where I questioned Finn's actions (like, did she really just plan to abandon Florian and Priya to leave with the rebel she literally just met?). Also, from an editor's standpoint, there were quite a few mechanical errors throughout the book that were enough to bother me as I was reading.
It wasn't a terrible read, but I had higher hopes when I started it. Unfortunately, the rest of the trilogy is a temporary DNF
MMC - Gideon: 3 🌟 (mostly because he's not featured much, so I don't have a lot to go off of)
SPICE: 🌶
LIKES: Finn is a strong and determined woman, a fighter, and I respect the drive that she has to seek revenge and help those that need it. Priya is also a really enjoyable character, and Finn learned a lot from her. And Florian might be my favorite thing about the book :p
DISLIKES: To me, the story started off strong. Like I said, Finn is a fighter. She's scrappy. But after her escape from the General, I had less and less interest in the plot. You meet Priya and Florian, and they're both a lot of fun, but I was pretty bored with the story until the last 10 chapters or so.
I saw the plot twist in the end coming from a mile away. There were a few moments where I questioned Finn's actions (like, did she really just plan to abandon Florian and Priya to leave with the rebel she literally just met?). Also, from an editor's standpoint, there were quite a few mechanical errors throughout the book that were enough to bother me as I was reading.
It wasn't a terrible read, but I had higher hopes when I started it. Unfortunately, the rest of the trilogy is a temporary DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2024
Very predictable, characters are super whiny and immature. Read like something written by a 14 years old at times. Will read the 2 one tho
January 10, 2024
huh?
This is a DNF for me. I ended when 50% through the book there was still no plot. Also, it felt like this author is very young. For example. A fantasy land would most like not have “beignets”.
This is a DNF for me. I ended when 50% through the book there was still no plot. Also, it felt like this author is very young. For example. A fantasy land would most like not have “beignets”.
April 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book took me by surprise and is not given enough recognition.
Being that this is the author's first release, there are some formatting issues but it didn't take away from the story, so let's get into the story.
✔️TRUE Enemies-to-Lovers (except, this book is just enemies)
✔️Found Family
✔️Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✔️ Not a virgin FMC
✔️No pregnancy
✔️Slave and Captor
✔️Badass morally grey FMC
✔️Touch her and 💀
✔️He falls first
❌ Spice
❌ Romance
I was definitely expecting the classic plot of sold slave falls in love with morally grey captor from the summary, but the plot threw me for a twist. There are some things you see coming, but the author was hinting towards it anyway so I didn't think it was meant to be a twist.
The side characters are actually not side characters. We have Priya, who is a badass in herself and Florian who provides the comic relief any good book needs. Finn grows significantly throughout the book, but she never was weak to begin with. For the majority we are following Finn's POV, and get a dash or two of Gideon's POV (MMC). The main focus is on Finn and her growth throughout the story. The author makes sure that the main characters are indeed enemies. I never had a doubt reading this book that Finn truly was out to kill, and she never faltered in her decisions. I respect that she stayed true to her missions.
There is only so much I can say without giving away spoilers, but this book was REFRESHING and an unexpected read.
When I say there is no spice or romance, it is set up for the second book in the series. I still would rate this as NA, or adult due to the darker themes, so I am hoping in the second book we do not have a fade to black situation.
I am sad the second book is not already out, so I guess I will have to impatiently wait for the next book in the series.
Being that this is the author's first release, there are some formatting issues but it didn't take away from the story, so let's get into the story.
✔️TRUE Enemies-to-Lovers (except, this book is just enemies)
✔️Found Family
✔️Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✔️ Not a virgin FMC
✔️No pregnancy
✔️Slave and Captor
✔️Badass morally grey FMC
✔️Touch her and 💀
✔️He falls first
❌ Spice
❌ Romance
I was definitely expecting the classic plot of sold slave falls in love with morally grey captor from the summary, but the plot threw me for a twist. There are some things you see coming, but the author was hinting towards it anyway so I didn't think it was meant to be a twist.
The side characters are actually not side characters. We have Priya, who is a badass in herself and Florian who provides the comic relief any good book needs. Finn grows significantly throughout the book, but she never was weak to begin with. For the majority we are following Finn's POV, and get a dash or two of Gideon's POV (MMC). The main focus is on Finn and her growth throughout the story. The author makes sure that the main characters are indeed enemies. I never had a doubt reading this book that Finn truly was out to kill, and she never faltered in her decisions. I respect that she stayed true to her missions.
There is only so much I can say without giving away spoilers, but this book was REFRESHING and an unexpected read.
When I say there is no spice or romance, it is set up for the second book in the series. I still would rate this as NA, or adult due to the darker themes, so I am hoping in the second book we do not have a fade to black situation.
I am sad the second book is not already out, so I guess I will have to impatiently wait for the next book in the series.
January 5, 2025
It felt like you have a tiny dick and are overcompensating with two swords for it. Now move or I’ll chop it even shorter.
Finn is everything I wanted in a heroine. This book was her journey. Definitely slow burn, enemies to lovers in the future. But like real enemies, at least coming from her. There is so much hurt and pain and found complicated family. I love Priya and want to see more of her. I know I’m going to love Gideon in the next book. But my goodness are these characters flawed and have the most tragic backstories as one would expect in this world.
Instead of spoiling anything, believe me you want to read it yourself. I’ll focus on the world. This world!! Honestly, it’s exactly what would happen if people had magic. One group would always want to control the other less strong/weaker magical group. I’m seriously not surprised. The Destroyers are sent by the Queen to kill the other magical groups. We have slaves. We have rebels. We have a shit ton of death and torture. Some parts were awful. The killing of There was a lot of pain. I’m actually disturbed by how much I liked this. It’s not pleasant. But I did love it. I loved Finn and her elvish maid turned mother. Gideon is not in this story for long but he was very memorable. The characters are so alive. So well written. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Finn is everything I wanted in a heroine. This book was her journey. Definitely slow burn, enemies to lovers in the future. But like real enemies, at least coming from her. There is so much hurt and pain and found complicated family. I love Priya and want to see more of her. I know I’m going to love Gideon in the next book. But my goodness are these characters flawed and have the most tragic backstories as one would expect in this world.
Instead of spoiling anything, believe me you want to read it yourself. I’ll focus on the world. This world!! Honestly, it’s exactly what would happen if people had magic. One group would always want to control the other less strong/weaker magical group. I’m seriously not surprised. The Destroyers are sent by the Queen to kill the other magical groups. We have slaves. We have rebels. We have a shit ton of death and torture. Some parts were awful. The killing of There was a lot of pain. I’m actually disturbed by how much I liked this. It’s not pleasant. But I did love it. I loved Finn and her elvish maid turned mother. Gideon is not in this story for long but he was very memorable. The characters are so alive. So well written. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
April 23, 2024
Dragged out and badly written
This is a side quest parading as the main plot and goes on for way too long. 90% of the book doesn’t even have the main male character — this isn’t slow burn, this is just exposition.
Additionally, the dialogue is stilted and cringe-inducing, and the world building is both anachronistic and unimaginative.
Almost a DNF, ended up skipping through chunks of the book that genuinely didn’t matter AT ALL to get to the end and it was a weak payoff anyways
This is a side quest parading as the main plot and goes on for way too long. 90% of the book doesn’t even have the main male character — this isn’t slow burn, this is just exposition.
Additionally, the dialogue is stilted and cringe-inducing, and the world building is both anachronistic and unimaginative.
Almost a DNF, ended up skipping through chunks of the book that genuinely didn’t matter AT ALL to get to the end and it was a weak payoff anyways
November 17, 2023
Terrible
Got half way.
Terrible writing. So slow and no structure. Nothing to keep you interested. Not sure where all the high reviews came from.
Got half way.
Terrible writing. So slow and no structure. Nothing to keep you interested. Not sure where all the high reviews came from.
July 17, 2023
I came across this book in a FB group and downloaded it.
I'm just starting to get into the fantasy genre but I did feel like the author did pretty well with the world building, character development and plot development. Everything had its purpose and moved along succinctly.
This is labeled a dark fantasy romance but there is absolutely no romance in this first book. I know it's set to be a trilogy and this book is meant to lead into that. I obviously figured out who the love interest will be although part way through the book there is a chapter that had me questioning "who is this guy?" which I later pieced it together.
Finn is the main character and at times I felt a little confused by her thoughts and actions. And she relies heavily on what Fate has in store for her. It took me the better part of the book to actually start to like her.
Priya is a definite badass and I enjoyed her character immediately. After Finn meets her things get a lot more interesting and we can see Finn changing and becoming more interesting.
The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the writing style. It feels very stilted and erratic with a lot of short sentences.
And the ending! A cliff hanger for sure - which definitely makes me want to read the next book. I can't wait for the next one to come out *I'm invested now* because I can see where the enemies-to-lovers will be taking me, and I am ready for it. Bring on the heat!
I'm just starting to get into the fantasy genre but I did feel like the author did pretty well with the world building, character development and plot development. Everything had its purpose and moved along succinctly.
This is labeled a dark fantasy romance but there is absolutely no romance in this first book. I know it's set to be a trilogy and this book is meant to lead into that. I obviously figured out who the love interest will be although part way through the book there is a chapter that had me questioning "who is this guy?" which I later pieced it together.
Finn is the main character and at times I felt a little confused by her thoughts and actions. And she relies heavily on what Fate has in store for her. It took me the better part of the book to actually start to like her.
Priya is a definite badass and I enjoyed her character immediately. After Finn meets her things get a lot more interesting and we can see Finn changing and becoming more interesting.
The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the writing style. It feels very stilted and erratic with a lot of short sentences.
And the ending! A cliff hanger for sure - which definitely makes me want to read the next book. I can't wait for the next one to come out *I'm invested now* because I can see where the enemies-to-lovers will be taking me, and I am ready for it. Bring on the heat!
January 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! Tetyana did a wonderful job with the world building and even though there was a lot of information thrown to us at the beginning of the book it was still easy to follow and understand what was happening! I love Finn & a bunch of the other characters we meet in book one! I knew something was going to happen at the end but I definitely didn’t guess what it was. I will say that I was mad when this book ended on a cliffhanger because I need book 2 like RIGHT NOW! I cannot wait until it releases
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July 5, 2025DNF at 8% as soon as we got here:
“What the FUCK Dimitrii?!” he shouted as he saw us, his torch lighting up the room. “Are you out of your mind??? She is for him!!!!”
Call me a snob, but the only thing that makes me DNF a book faster than comma splices are funky punctuations.
“What the FUCK Dimitrii?!” he shouted as he saw us, his torch lighting up the room. “Are you out of your mind??? She is for him!!!!”
Call me a snob, but the only thing that makes me DNF a book faster than comma splices are funky punctuations.
March 20, 2024
Awful
February 10, 2024
Dear God, fire your editor. PLEASE.
The premise was interesting, if a little juvenile in its execution. I will probably read the next one, provided the author finds a new editor. Hell, I'll do it if you need one.
The premise was interesting, if a little juvenile in its execution. I will probably read the next one, provided the author finds a new editor. Hell, I'll do it if you need one.
May 18, 2023
✨ Darkness might wander, but light will always guide ⚡️
I had the absolute honor to be one of Tetyana Walkers Beta readers for “A Broken Promise.” Not only was the first book in her soon to be series breathtaking from page one, but Tetyana has a heart of gold. I absolutely loved talking to her, and being able to provide insight (not like she needed much!) while I read. This was my FIRST beta read, and she made me fall deeper in love with the process and with reading. Even if this book isn’t your style, please read it just for her. I promise her work doesn’t disappoint.
Now to get into the actual book itself. Reader, beware! There is a LOT of information right at the beginning. This Queen built you a whole fantasy WORLD. (And there’s a map!!! A MAP! SHE’S BRINGING IT BACK! I was SO excited seeing her drawn out map. I’m not sure how the finished product looks but it was so great!) Even with the massive info drop in the beginning, it isn’t off-putting. It’s said and explained so well. I struggle with details, and I was able to get the majority of it down pretty quick. Since there is a ton of information, it may be considered a bit of a slow burn until events start picking up, but I got hooked pretty quickly. The more information I read, the more I needed.
Also… Finn??? Love her. We must protect her at all costs. There’s a few more characters you meet that you’ll genuinely fall in love with. When I tell you I absolutely loved something about each and every main character, I meant it.. even some side characters. The quote I used at the top? The man who it is from is my favorite. You’ll know who he is once you read it. And he was only really in the story for maybe two chapters, but he’s still my favorite. The CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, people. Ugh. Unbelievable. You go through the story learning about the characters, their backstory’s, why they are the way they are, and watch as they grow. It is more magical than the world she’s written about. Tetyana has quite a gift with her writing style.
The plot itself… had me absolutely shook. If you guys have been following my reviews, by now you know I have a habit of trying to play detective and try to figure out the ending before I get there. Did I have a clue? Absolutely not. Was I close? Nah. Did I even try to guess the end? I’m not even entirely sure anymore. I just sat at my computer open mouthed for a good 25 minutes. Did I scream? For sure. I have never in my life been as shocked by an ending as I was with “A Broken Promise.” I had to actually sit and PROCESS what the heck I just read. I’m still thinking about it and I’m pretty sure I finished reading this in February. It was so good. I have been ready for book two since the second I read the last word in book one. Tetyana has me captivated. But, beware the absolute CLIFF-HANGER. I wasn’t READY!
Rating: You should already knowwww. 5/5. GO READ IT. I need someone to talk to about it.
I had the absolute honor to be one of Tetyana Walkers Beta readers for “A Broken Promise.” Not only was the first book in her soon to be series breathtaking from page one, but Tetyana has a heart of gold. I absolutely loved talking to her, and being able to provide insight (not like she needed much!) while I read. This was my FIRST beta read, and she made me fall deeper in love with the process and with reading. Even if this book isn’t your style, please read it just for her. I promise her work doesn’t disappoint.
Now to get into the actual book itself. Reader, beware! There is a LOT of information right at the beginning. This Queen built you a whole fantasy WORLD. (And there’s a map!!! A MAP! SHE’S BRINGING IT BACK! I was SO excited seeing her drawn out map. I’m not sure how the finished product looks but it was so great!) Even with the massive info drop in the beginning, it isn’t off-putting. It’s said and explained so well. I struggle with details, and I was able to get the majority of it down pretty quick. Since there is a ton of information, it may be considered a bit of a slow burn until events start picking up, but I got hooked pretty quickly. The more information I read, the more I needed.
Also… Finn??? Love her. We must protect her at all costs. There’s a few more characters you meet that you’ll genuinely fall in love with. When I tell you I absolutely loved something about each and every main character, I meant it.. even some side characters. The quote I used at the top? The man who it is from is my favorite. You’ll know who he is once you read it. And he was only really in the story for maybe two chapters, but he’s still my favorite. The CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, people. Ugh. Unbelievable. You go through the story learning about the characters, their backstory’s, why they are the way they are, and watch as they grow. It is more magical than the world she’s written about. Tetyana has quite a gift with her writing style.
The plot itself… had me absolutely shook. If you guys have been following my reviews, by now you know I have a habit of trying to play detective and try to figure out the ending before I get there. Did I have a clue? Absolutely not. Was I close? Nah. Did I even try to guess the end? I’m not even entirely sure anymore. I just sat at my computer open mouthed for a good 25 minutes. Did I scream? For sure. I have never in my life been as shocked by an ending as I was with “A Broken Promise.” I had to actually sit and PROCESS what the heck I just read. I’m still thinking about it and I’m pretty sure I finished reading this in February. It was so good. I have been ready for book two since the second I read the last word in book one. Tetyana has me captivated. But, beware the absolute CLIFF-HANGER. I wasn’t READY!
Rating: You should already knowwww. 5/5. GO READ IT. I need someone to talk to about it.
March 12, 2025
The synopsis of the book is what drew me in, but the overall story was completely different. I think it could have benefited from more world building and stronger character backgrounds. The wording and grammar kept throwing me off, and dialogue between Finn and Priya seemed forced and unnatural a lot of the time, so I never felt fully immersed in the story. Part II, which made up the majority of the book, could probably have been summed up in a couple chapters, and I ended up skimming through to Part III about halfway through.
The idea is interesting, but the focus of the story needed to be shifted; overall I think it just needed more editing and a stronger plot. I don't think I will continue on to Book 2.
The idea is interesting, but the focus of the story needed to be shifted; overall I think it just needed more editing and a stronger plot. I don't think I will continue on to Book 2.
August 30, 2023
2.5 (rounded up)
I was so confused the whole time I was reading this. I kinda like the ending, but I thought this was supposed to be an enemy to lover romance but there was no romance? Maybe in the next book? Also some stuff was kind of weird and unnecessary
I was so confused the whole time I was reading this. I kinda like the ending, but I thought this was supposed to be an enemy to lover romance but there was no romance? Maybe in the next book? Also some stuff was kind of weird and unnecessary
April 4, 2024
I felt disappointed with this book. It was recommended for ACOTAR readers, I really didn’t see the parallels. I should have taken the trigger warnings seriously. There are a lot of disturbing scenes in this book. The overall vibe is pretty somber, not typical for fantasy.
January 23, 2025
I liked the first part of the book but then it was hard to keep reading in the second part. The third part did pick up some but only in the last few chapters is when it did get good. I will read the second book because I need answers…
March 28, 2024
I hate Priya. She ruined it for me.
September 1, 2025
I liked this first book as a start to a trilogy so much more than probably any other trilogy I’ve read in awhile.
We meet Finnleah, broken, abused and at the her wits end. Soon after being sold from a life of slavery she is met with what she assumes will be a much worse horror.
Then we meet our morally gray tall dark and handsome mmc. Whose real name isn’t revealed till much later. Who saves her here, pisses her off there. All the goody good stuff. Yet, you could feel the hate radiating off Finn towards him. So she played the game, did things at the right time till she was able to make her escape.
And she actually escaped. Unlike a lot of books if the mfc tries to escape from the mmc she’ll likely be found again in the next couple chapters by him.
Not here. Finn was able to escape and start a new life and have a full on character ark without the mmc. Which is something I haven’t seen in a while. This allowed so much and added so much more the plot.
And the final chapters, I loved a lot. He came back and was witty, she was this whole new badass. On top of it the ending was delivered perfect and had me screaming in delight. I loved this so much I cannot wait to read book 2💋💋
We meet Finnleah, broken, abused and at the her wits end. Soon after being sold from a life of slavery she is met with what she assumes will be a much worse horror.
Then we meet our morally gray tall dark and handsome mmc. Whose real name isn’t revealed till much later. Who saves her here, pisses her off there. All the goody good stuff. Yet, you could feel the hate radiating off Finn towards him. So she played the game, did things at the right time till she was able to make her escape.
And she actually escaped. Unlike a lot of books if the mfc tries to escape from the mmc she’ll likely be found again in the next couple chapters by him.
Not here. Finn was able to escape and start a new life and have a full on character ark without the mmc. Which is something I haven’t seen in a while. This allowed so much and added so much more the plot.
And the final chapters, I loved a lot. He came back and was witty, she was this whole new badass. On top of it the ending was delivered perfect and had me screaming in delight. I loved this so much I cannot wait to read book 2💋💋
July 29, 2025
The book started off well — I loved the writing, and the dialogues flowed naturally. My expectations kept rising. But sadly, it all went downhill after the main character got away. It felt bland, with no real chemistry between the characters. There was a lack of cohesiveness, and Priya just wasn’t it. In the end, the book lived up to its name: A Broken Promise. I might be willing to read the second one just to see if it gets any better.
February 22, 2024
Plot and world building were very interesting. The character development too was well done, but not phenomenal. I really liked the magical world building as well.
September 27, 2025
3.5⭐️ just mainly world and character building in this one! But I’m going to book 2 🫡
July 22, 2025
This was a solid “ok sure” and that’s the only way I can think to describe it
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