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The Head, the Heart, and the Heir #5
Revenge of the Forbidden Lands
A labyrinth only three can enter.
An angry war god out for vengeance.
Is she the heart they thought she was—or something more?
Seeking the ancient relics whose power can keep the fury inside her at bay, Princess Alexandria and her friends have left their loved ones behind in search of a labyrinth hidden deep in the mountains. When they discover a blood-red wall of stone, they must rely on their natural strengths—and each other—in order to gain entry.
As Alex, Edith, and Michael navigate a confusing network of underground passageways, the labyrinth tests them each in turn. But if they ever want to return home, Alex must make a choice that will change the lives of everyone she’s ever cared about.
Meanwhile, Prince Aaron, her husband and king of Datten, is still reckoning with the curse that almost cost him everything. Sorcerers from the Forbidden Lands continue to attack, and he's not sure if Alex will ever be able to trust him again.
In order to protect his kingdom and show Alex he’s changed, Aaron forms an uneasy alliance with Gryphon, the hot-headed sorcerer who is fated to rule with Alex when Aaron’s mortal life comes to an end—and the only sorcerer powerful enough to train her for the battle to come.
But Gryphon is fighting a secret battle of his own, and when a dangerous figure from his past shows up demanding vengeance, he uncovers a truth that’s remained hidden from everyone—even Alex.
As the sorcerers and mortals join forces to protect their queen, Alex’s true identity threatens to change everything, and the fury continues to grow stronger. Who will commit the final betrayal?
An angry war god out for vengeance.
Is she the heart they thought she was—or something more?
Seeking the ancient relics whose power can keep the fury inside her at bay, Princess Alexandria and her friends have left their loved ones behind in search of a labyrinth hidden deep in the mountains. When they discover a blood-red wall of stone, they must rely on their natural strengths—and each other—in order to gain entry.
As Alex, Edith, and Michael navigate a confusing network of underground passageways, the labyrinth tests them each in turn. But if they ever want to return home, Alex must make a choice that will change the lives of everyone she’s ever cared about.
Meanwhile, Prince Aaron, her husband and king of Datten, is still reckoning with the curse that almost cost him everything. Sorcerers from the Forbidden Lands continue to attack, and he's not sure if Alex will ever be able to trust him again.
In order to protect his kingdom and show Alex he’s changed, Aaron forms an uneasy alliance with Gryphon, the hot-headed sorcerer who is fated to rule with Alex when Aaron’s mortal life comes to an end—and the only sorcerer powerful enough to train her for the battle to come.
But Gryphon is fighting a secret battle of his own, and when a dangerous figure from his past shows up demanding vengeance, he uncovers a truth that’s remained hidden from everyone—even Alex.
As the sorcerers and mortals join forces to protect their queen, Alex’s true identity threatens to change everything, and the fury continues to grow stronger. Who will commit the final betrayal?
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
4 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Alice Hanov
17 books225 followersAlice Hanov is a writer who graduated with a degree in Rhetoric and Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo. She’s been writing and dreaming up stories since she was seven and only now decided to get them on paper after enthralling her children with them.
She's working on the final book in her debut series The Head, The Heart and The Heir, and starting two new series including Torian Tales, a series of stand alone stories or duologies set in the fantasy world of Torian, from her main series. The first story, Heart of the Siren, will be releasing in November, 2025.
When she isn’t writing Alice is raising her three kids with her husband, helping run their software company Hanov Solutions or can be found reading, painting, knitting and chasing after their three super busy, artistic children who aspire to be artists or you tubers themselves.
She's working on the final book in her debut series The Head, The Heart and The Heir, and starting two new series including Torian Tales, a series of stand alone stories or duologies set in the fantasy world of Torian, from her main series. The first story, Heart of the Siren, will be releasing in November, 2025.
When she isn’t writing Alice is raising her three kids with her husband, helping run their software company Hanov Solutions or can be found reading, painting, knitting and chasing after their three super busy, artistic children who aspire to be artists or you tubers themselves.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 5, 2025
Phenomenal book! I had the pleasure of alpha reading this book. It has been SO MUCH FUN to see Alex’s journey continue. This book was full of adventure, and I loved seeing the dynamic between Alex, Michael and Edith. I won’t say too much because I hate spoilers, but this book will keep you on the edge of your seat! We learn so much more about the world and mythology of Torian, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
August 22, 2024
First of thanks Alice Hanov for the ARC
4 stars out 5
I loved this book so much.
I loved the thing with the labyrinth although in my opinion it could use some more fleshing out and development maybe this is just because I'm used to way longer books with a slower pace but for me that part just felt a bit too short with certain things such as the scepter the main reason the characters search and enter the labyrinth is little mention in the rest of the book.
For the rest i loved how Alex, Aaron and Gryphon and all characters growed through the book i think the decision to age them up was a very good one. Look i know it isn’t going to happen but sometimes the tension between Gryphon and Aaron makes me think just kiss already.
Besides that the rest of the plot was fun quick to read and very rewarding it was great to see the characters act like the kings and queens they are and do actual ruling.
I love the stuff with the sorcerers and can't wait to read the next book because that cliffhanger was everything.
4 stars out 5
I loved this book so much.
I loved the thing with the labyrinth although in my opinion it could use some more fleshing out and development maybe this is just because I'm used to way longer books with a slower pace but for me that part just felt a bit too short with certain things such as the scepter the main reason the characters search and enter the labyrinth is little mention in the rest of the book.
For the rest i loved how Alex, Aaron and Gryphon and all characters growed through the book i think the decision to age them up was a very good one. Look i know it isn’t going to happen but sometimes the tension between Gryphon and Aaron makes me think just kiss already.
Besides that the rest of the plot was fun quick to read and very rewarding it was great to see the characters act like the kings and queens they are and do actual ruling.
I love the stuff with the sorcerers and can't wait to read the next book because that cliffhanger was everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2024
This series keeps getting better as it goes on! I think this book is my favorite so far, though. There is so much going on that my interest never waned. This is not meant to be read as a standalone as the backstories from the other books is essential to understand the plot.
The group is split and the story follows both of their timelines. It was easy to keep track of what was happening as there was not too long of a foray into either group's tales at one time.
I am a fan of puzzles, so my favorite parts of the books were the times in the labyrinth. Alex, Michael and Edith had to figure out the clues left in forms of riddles and, in some instances, complete challenges, to successfully navigate the labyrinth.
Meanwhile, Aaron has recovered and he and Gryphon are trying to figure out how to help Alex. The banter between these 2 is absolutely priceless! Aaron has redeemed himself in my eyes a bit, but I am still Team Gryphon all the way!
If you like lots of action mixed with emotional tugging and snarky comments, this is the book for you!
The group is split and the story follows both of their timelines. It was easy to keep track of what was happening as there was not too long of a foray into either group's tales at one time.
I am a fan of puzzles, so my favorite parts of the books were the times in the labyrinth. Alex, Michael and Edith had to figure out the clues left in forms of riddles and, in some instances, complete challenges, to successfully navigate the labyrinth.
Meanwhile, Aaron has recovered and he and Gryphon are trying to figure out how to help Alex. The banter between these 2 is absolutely priceless! Aaron has redeemed himself in my eyes a bit, but I am still Team Gryphon all the way!
If you like lots of action mixed with emotional tugging and snarky comments, this is the book for you!
September 14, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!
Alex, Michael, and Edith working through the maze to find the scepter was great. I would have loved more. Parts did feel a little choppy but I understand with the jumps of POV
I truly love this series and I don’t know if it was because I kept getting pulled away from book but it felt like it was jumping from one thing to the next very quickly. I was able to follow along and really enjoyed it. However, I felt like I missed something. Time jumped quickly after Alex got back from the maze with a lot happening.
Im still on team Gryphon but Aaron was a lot better in this part.
Alex, Michael, and Edith working through the maze to find the scepter was great. I would have loved more. Parts did feel a little choppy but I understand with the jumps of POV
I truly love this series and I don’t know if it was because I kept getting pulled away from book but it felt like it was jumping from one thing to the next very quickly. I was able to follow along and really enjoyed it. However, I felt like I missed something. Time jumped quickly after Alex got back from the maze with a lot happening.
Im still on team Gryphon but Aaron was a lot better in this part.
August 31, 2025
When I realized the next book in the series is releasing very soon I just had to get caught up. Of course I'm never disappointed in the authors writing. ROTFL drew me back in as if I'd never left this enthralling world. We learn a lot in this installment. It left me feeling very satisfied but left me wanting so much more. Cannot wait for more Alex, Aaron, Gryphon and all the other characters I've grown to adore.
I'm still team Gryphon but Aaron grew on me a little more this time around. Not enough to take away the Gryphon/Alex love but I don't want him out of their way as much now as before.
Now we wait to see what's in store for the Head, the Heart and the Heir.
I'm still team Gryphon but Aaron grew on me a little more this time around. Not enough to take away the Gryphon/Alex love but I don't want him out of their way as much now as before.
Now we wait to see what's in store for the Head, the Heart and the Heir.
September 21, 2024
4.5 stars
This series is amazing, and I get so excited each time a new book is released.
I had been looking forward to the journey Alex, Michael and Edith were going to embark upon in this book, and it was just as daunting and emotional as I'd expected it to be.
While they were away, Aaron and Gryphon had to work together, which is always an interesting time. Gryphon is still one of my fave characters.
There were many highs and lows, lots of drama and adventure, and another crazy cliffhanger! Can't wait to see how the group navigate this next obstacle.
This series is amazing, and I get so excited each time a new book is released.
I had been looking forward to the journey Alex, Michael and Edith were going to embark upon in this book, and it was just as daunting and emotional as I'd expected it to be.
While they were away, Aaron and Gryphon had to work together, which is always an interesting time. Gryphon is still one of my fave characters.
There were many highs and lows, lots of drama and adventure, and another crazy cliffhanger! Can't wait to see how the group navigate this next obstacle.
August 1, 2025
Another fast read
Once again, I definitely blew through this book. This entire series has kept me hooked from the beginning and this book was no different. We learned some shocking facts about the past, some unions were solidified, and overall growth was accomplished. There were unforseen threats, handled exceptionally well, and then a threat we're not sure how it will be handled yet ( I'm looking at you cliffhanger). Very excited for book 6, which isn't released yet. Definitely didn't expect to run through these books quite so fast.
Once again, I definitely blew through this book. This entire series has kept me hooked from the beginning and this book was no different. We learned some shocking facts about the past, some unions were solidified, and overall growth was accomplished. There were unforseen threats, handled exceptionally well, and then a threat we're not sure how it will be handled yet ( I'm looking at you cliffhanger). Very excited for book 6, which isn't released yet. Definitely didn't expect to run through these books quite so fast.
September 23, 2024
I love this series and how Alice is developing the story!! I've loved watching these characters grow over the last 5 books. If you are new to Epic fantasy these books are the best beginning. There is always some kind of action or shenanigans going on. Whether it be Alex plotting against her enemies or planning celebrations for her friends. I do wish the scenes in the labryinth were longer and maybe we got more back story on that but otherwise I can not wait to read more by Alice!!!
November 12, 2024
Duuuuuude the cliff hanger?! What?! This series is the kind of book you keep flipping pages and then all too soon there are no more pages to turn. All of the favorites were doing the dang thing in this book. Bam bam bam, one thing after another. All the plot points and character development. Such a good read. I want to pick up the next one immediately 😭😭😭 but good things are worth waiting for.
September 8, 2024
I love this series!! I'm always excited to see where Alex's adventures lead her! Humour, excitement and intrigue kept me turning pages long past my bed time! Alice has a knack for story telling, and I always wait patiently for the next book!!
August 25, 2024
Gryphon’s family is psychotic! Still love Alex and Aaron and their families. Sophie many things happen; intense, sweet, crazy and what an ending!!!
September 17, 2024
Okay but seriously Alice!!!!! Girl I'm obsessed! I honestly love this series and it just keeps getting better and better!
Y'all NEED to read these books
Absolutely perfection!!!!!
Y'all NEED to read these books
Absolutely perfection!!!!!
September 20, 2024
I absolutely love this book! This series keeps getting better and better, and I am excited to see where book 6 goes! That cliffy was not nice though!
October 13, 2024
I always love a story with a labyrinth and that was my favourite part of this book. I'm enjoying following Alex's story and as well as all her companions.
January 14, 2025
The book is nicely paced, the secondary characters are actually great and a nasty move by the Forbidden Lands was well overdue.
Aaron is better in this book, although I'm still not a fan...I don't get how anybody could not be Team Gryphon, and I really hope we get to see that relationship evolve by the end of the series!
Good cliffhanger at the end!
Aaron is better in this book, although I'm still not a fan...I don't get how anybody could not be Team Gryphon, and I really hope we get to see that relationship evolve by the end of the series!
Good cliffhanger at the end!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2024
Wow
I can’t believe this is the fifth book in the series, like always, Alice NAILED IT, I couldn’t believe a lot of the thing happening and loved how the whole book advanced.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝.
What I loved the most was how Alice managed Alex and Aaron’s relationship and how she intertwined it with Gryphon. I really can’t wait to see what else she has for us.
I can’t believe this is the fifth book in the series, like always, Alice NAILED IT, I couldn’t believe a lot of the thing happening and loved how the whole book advanced.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝.
What I loved the most was how Alice managed Alex and Aaron’s relationship and how she intertwined it with Gryphon. I really can’t wait to see what else she has for us.
October 4, 2024
I really, really enjoyed this book, probably because it really highlighted two of my favourite characters - Edith and Michael. It's an extremely specific comparison but I was very much picturing the Crystal Labyrinth from Winx Club as they went through their trials in their own labyrinth.
The second half of the book - OMG!!!! The things that happen and the twists and reveals! I was screaming. My friends suffered through many screeching videos cause I had no words to describe. Alice Hamov got several similar messages with more details because WTF!!!!!! I'm STILL reeling over Gryphon's discovery! Also, the scene with him, Aaron and Harold 🤣🤣🤣 Dying😂
Screaming and laughing over almost everything in Book 5 of this series!
The second half of the book - OMG!!!! The things that happen and the twists and reveals! I was screaming. My friends suffered through many screeching videos cause I had no words to describe. Alice Hamov got several similar messages with more details because WTF!!!!!! I'm STILL reeling over Gryphon's discovery! Also, the scene with him, Aaron and Harold 🤣🤣🤣 Dying😂
Screaming and laughing over almost everything in Book 5 of this series!
December 24, 2024
Hanov continues to “amaze” with Revenge of the Forbidden Lands.
I couldn’t help but feel like this was a new and exciting season to a favourite TV show. Binged it in two days!
This story has it all:
• Fast-paced action as Alex, Edith, and Michael navigate a twisted labyrinth
• Tender romance
• More unfolding of an epic magic system (loved learning more about the Cassandra line)
• Mythical creatures (Cerberus!)
• A wedding
• A “furiously” big reveal
• Character growth (loved witnessing Aaron’s ARC, but I’m still Team Gryphon all the way! *smirk*)
• Humor in all the right places (the moaning banter!)
Well balanced story. A delight to read. Full disclosure: I'm not a fan of love triangles and yet THIS one pulls me in. Curse you, Hanov. I'm one thousand percent invested.
I need MORE. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment of this richly told saga!
I couldn’t help but feel like this was a new and exciting season to a favourite TV show. Binged it in two days!
This story has it all:
• Fast-paced action as Alex, Edith, and Michael navigate a twisted labyrinth
• Tender romance
• More unfolding of an epic magic system (loved learning more about the Cassandra line)
• Mythical creatures (Cerberus!)
• A wedding
• A “furiously” big reveal
• Character growth (loved witnessing Aaron’s ARC, but I’m still Team Gryphon all the way! *smirk*)
• Humor in all the right places (the moaning banter!)
Well balanced story. A delight to read. Full disclosure: I'm not a fan of love triangles and yet THIS one pulls me in. Curse you, Hanov. I'm one thousand percent invested.
I need MORE. Can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment of this richly told saga!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
I absolutely love this series by Alice Hanov! I had the honor of being an Arc reader for this book and absolutely LOVED it. Anytime I get one of Alice's book I immediately drop everything to read it. I loved being able to see more of Alex, Michael, and Edith and their dynamic together. This book will keep your interest peaked at all times and leave you wanting more! These books always come with the perfect amount of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat! I love the love triangle between Aaron, Alex, and Gryphon and can't wait to see their story continue. This book had so many cute, romantic moments and they were perfectly balanced with action packed and nail-biting scenes. I can't wait to read book 6 when it is released!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews