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To Mend a Broken Heart
The only thing Esta Dormys ever wanted was to become Queen of Vouhan. To follow in her father’s footsteps and to make him proud. And now that she’s finally taken her place as the ruler of her land, all she feels is emptiness. Memories of her past haunt her, and they turn into reality once more when her court demands she marry to produce an heir.
She gives herself twelve days to find someone on her own, otherwise she has to marry Prince Farin, a man who plays a role in those tormenting thoughts inside of her head. With help from her half sister, Esta travels to Fiora to search for a fae that will agree to her terms. When Aiden presents himself as a candidate, all Esta’s rational thoughts disintegrate. A tall, dark, and handsome fae with violet eyes and butterfly wings shouldn’t make her feel anything other than indifferent. But when Aiden turns out to be the only option, the commander of the fae army is more than willing to agree to anything she offers him.
While her engagement is fake, a way to fool her court and keep her away from Farin, the threat of the dark elves is real. It puts a weight on Esta’s shoulders, forcing her to be more like her father than she secretly wants to be.
Feelings blur, emotions run high, and an abusive past catches up to her fast. And when Aiden’s secret comes out, it scars her in ways she never expected. Will she be able to accept a bond that will force her to face her past or will she let those voices inside of her head lead her to a path of self destruction?
To Mend a Broken Heart is an adult standalone romantasy that takes place after the events of Power and Ash. Please mind the trigger warnings before deciding to read this book. It has mentions of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, as well as an on paper torture scene.
She gives herself twelve days to find someone on her own, otherwise she has to marry Prince Farin, a man who plays a role in those tormenting thoughts inside of her head. With help from her half sister, Esta travels to Fiora to search for a fae that will agree to her terms. When Aiden presents himself as a candidate, all Esta’s rational thoughts disintegrate. A tall, dark, and handsome fae with violet eyes and butterfly wings shouldn’t make her feel anything other than indifferent. But when Aiden turns out to be the only option, the commander of the fae army is more than willing to agree to anything she offers him.
While her engagement is fake, a way to fool her court and keep her away from Farin, the threat of the dark elves is real. It puts a weight on Esta’s shoulders, forcing her to be more like her father than she secretly wants to be.
Feelings blur, emotions run high, and an abusive past catches up to her fast. And when Aiden’s secret comes out, it scars her in ways she never expected. Will she be able to accept a bond that will force her to face her past or will she let those voices inside of her head lead her to a path of self destruction?
To Mend a Broken Heart is an adult standalone romantasy that takes place after the events of Power and Ash. Please mind the trigger warnings before deciding to read this book. It has mentions of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, as well as an on paper torture scene.
- GenresFantasy
360 pages, Paperback
Published July 16, 2024
1 person is currently reading
241 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 11, 2024
4.25⭐️
i received an e-arc from the author, thanks bo 🫶🏼
note: to mend a broken heart is a spin-off of the fear & fire duology, so i highly recommend reading that duology first! all the world-building and introduction of all the characters is done in those two books. if you jump straight into this one, it might be a bit confusing.
that being said, i really enjoyed this book! from the start you are sucked into the story. the writing style is accessible and i literally flew through the book. i think this book (and the fear & fire duology) is perfect for beginner fantasy readers.
tropes:
✨ dual pov
✨ fake marriage/marriage of convenience
✨ slow burn (veryyyy slow)
✨ grumpy x sumshine
✨ he falls first
✨ elves and fae
✨ fated mates
main characters:
esta (aka the baddest bitch that ever lived)
if esta dormys has zero fans then i’m dead. literally this girl went through so much trauma! she’s very morally grey but that made a lot of sense for her character. there’s some growth, and I’m excited to see how she will continue to grow as a character in this series!
aiden (aka a walking green flag)
i loved aiden as a character! he’s strong and soft at the same time. a cinnamon roll that could kill you. literally a walking green flag and the king of consent! we love to see it 😌
(please read the trigger warnings before reading, because there’s some dark stuff in there)
i received an e-arc from the author, thanks bo 🫶🏼
note: to mend a broken heart is a spin-off of the fear & fire duology, so i highly recommend reading that duology first! all the world-building and introduction of all the characters is done in those two books. if you jump straight into this one, it might be a bit confusing.
that being said, i really enjoyed this book! from the start you are sucked into the story. the writing style is accessible and i literally flew through the book. i think this book (and the fear & fire duology) is perfect for beginner fantasy readers.
tropes:
✨ dual pov
✨ fake marriage/marriage of convenience
✨ slow burn (veryyyy slow)
✨ grumpy x sumshine
✨ he falls first
✨ elves and fae
✨ fated mates
main characters:
esta (aka the baddest bitch that ever lived)
if esta dormys has zero fans then i’m dead. literally this girl went through so much trauma! she’s very morally grey but that made a lot of sense for her character. there’s some growth, and I’m excited to see how she will continue to grow as a character in this series!
aiden (aka a walking green flag)
i loved aiden as a character! he’s strong and soft at the same time. a cinnamon roll that could kill you. literally a walking green flag and the king of consent! we love to see it 😌
(please read the trigger warnings before reading, because there’s some dark stuff in there)
July 12, 2024
B.B. Salem did it again!!!! 🥲🥰😍
Tropes: (kinda) forced marriage, touch him/her and die, grumpy x sunshine, opposites attract, (overcoming) trauma (check TW!), mates (I SWOON for this!!!)
She keeps impressing me with her writing. Within this book she handles difficult topics with such care and depth, the characters, their interactions and growth - the sass (iconic lines, hello) and the personality was just so spot on. The storyline was so rich and addictive (can I live in Aiden’s home, please??), I couldn’t put it down. I was so engaged with the way our two main characters interact with each other. Also the tension, pain and court intrigue was sublime.
Absolutely a BIG 5 STARS for me!
PS: we all deserve an Aiden… that man is the greenest flag!
Would recommend!!!!
Tropes: (kinda) forced marriage, touch him/her and die, grumpy x sunshine, opposites attract, (overcoming) trauma (check TW!), mates (I SWOON for this!!!)
She keeps impressing me with her writing. Within this book she handles difficult topics with such care and depth, the characters, their interactions and growth - the sass (iconic lines, hello) and the personality was just so spot on. The storyline was so rich and addictive (can I live in Aiden’s home, please??), I couldn’t put it down. I was so engaged with the way our two main characters interact with each other. Also the tension, pain and court intrigue was sublime.
Absolutely a BIG 5 STARS for me!
PS: we all deserve an Aiden… that man is the greenest flag!
Would recommend!!!!
June 25, 2024
To Mend A Broken Heart is a spin off of the Fear & Fire duology and although you can read it as a standalone, I would really recommend to read the duology first especially when you want to read it eventually because otherwise you will have huge spoilers.
This book absolutely had it all. I love that we get to see Esta’s story and know her past and her feelings! I really felt everything she felt, the emotional struggle, discovering feelings she hadn’t had in a long time, finding real love and being loved by a man for the first time, overcoming trauma etc. I really went through the same emotions while reading it and that is a perfect example of immaculate writing for me.
Everytime I think her books can’t get better, they do! You see a lot of growth in the writing style since her first book until now! The books B.B. Salem writes are always on the darker side but this was defenitely not YA anymore! This is an adult fantasy and I would advise to really check the trigger warnings before you start.
I will absolutely, 100%, always recommend this book, it is for sure one of my favorite reads of this year so far!
This book absolutely had it all. I love that we get to see Esta’s story and know her past and her feelings! I really felt everything she felt, the emotional struggle, discovering feelings she hadn’t had in a long time, finding real love and being loved by a man for the first time, overcoming trauma etc. I really went through the same emotions while reading it and that is a perfect example of immaculate writing for me.
Everytime I think her books can’t get better, they do! You see a lot of growth in the writing style since her first book until now! The books B.B. Salem writes are always on the darker side but this was defenitely not YA anymore! This is an adult fantasy and I would advise to really check the trigger warnings before you start.
I will absolutely, 100%, always recommend this book, it is for sure one of my favorite reads of this year so far!
June 25, 2024
To Mend a Broken heart is the new spin-off series of the Fear & Fire duology, which I really recommend reading first to get introduced to all of the characters and the world-building, otherwise it might be a challenge to get into this story.
TMABH is definitely leaning more into the adult romantasy category, and I advice you to check the triggers at the start of the book before diving in.
Esta's story is one of growth, acceptance, trauma recovery and healing; and the author did a great job showing her (ongoing) journey to recovery alongside the main events of the book.
I could also really note the growth the author has made since her debut, it's been a joy to be part of the journey.
I can't wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us!
TMABH is definitely leaning more into the adult romantasy category, and I advice you to check the triggers at the start of the book before diving in.
Esta's story is one of growth, acceptance, trauma recovery and healing; and the author did a great job showing her (ongoing) journey to recovery alongside the main events of the book.
I could also really note the growth the author has made since her debut, it's been a joy to be part of the journey.
I can't wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us!
June 20, 2024
I recieved this book as an ARC from the author and i’m so happy i got to read it. This book gets a solid 4,5 stars from me ⭐️
I want to start by saying this really is an adult romance fantasy and it gets pretty dark in my opinion, so really read the trigger warnings before starting the book
I was swooning over Aiden this entire book how is he so perfect 😩 also i think this is the first book i’ve read where the fmc is already powerful from the start and continues to be powerful through the entire book and i absolutely loved it. It’s also grumpy x sunshine where she is the grumpy one!
Esta really got on my nerves sometimes and i didn’t always agree with her decisions but she made up for all of them
i highly recommend this book to anyone who’s into the adult romantasy genre ✨ i enjoyed it a lot and i want to thank the author for sending me this ARC! 💓
I want to start by saying this really is an adult romance fantasy and it gets pretty dark in my opinion, so really read the trigger warnings before starting the book
I was swooning over Aiden this entire book how is he so perfect 😩 also i think this is the first book i’ve read where the fmc is already powerful from the start and continues to be powerful through the entire book and i absolutely loved it. It’s also grumpy x sunshine where she is the grumpy one!
Esta really got on my nerves sometimes and i didn’t always agree with her decisions but she made up for all of them
i highly recommend this book to anyone who’s into the adult romantasy genre ✨ i enjoyed it a lot and i want to thank the author for sending me this ARC! 💓
July 18, 2024
To Mend a Broken Heart by B. B. Salem is a book that will grab you and won't let you go, and it's available right now! I have read it as a standalone, but it is actually a spin-off of the author's Fear & Fire duology. Now I need to go back and read the duology! I could see why this book would classify as a spin-off since there were mentions of other characters and their actions, but it didn't diminish my enjoyment. I could easily follow the plot and understand why some characters acted as they did.
I love the sunshine vs. grumpy trope, and here, the roles are reversed—the FMC is the grumpy one, and the MMC is the sunshine one. Although I feel it's entirely unfair to characterize Esta, the FMC, as a grumpy character. Yes, she is morally grey, black even, and her actions and words cut deep, but once you learn more about her past, it is so apparent why she is the way she is. Her growth and how she shielded and eventually managed to start the healing process was executed beautifully.
Aidan, the MMC, is the perfect complement to Esta. Their personalities balance each other, and their growth and development together is a key aspect of the story.
B. B. Salem has crafted a fantasy narrative that delves into the depths of hurt, trauma, betrayal, and inner demons, but also shines with love, hope, and devotion. As an ARC reader, I was privileged to experience this journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend To Mend A Broken Heart. Prepare to be fully immersed in this captivating story.
To Mend A Broken Heart will gift you
- adult romantasy standalone
- dark topics
- trauma healing
- reverse grumpy vs. sunshine trope
- morally grey FMC
- golden retriever MMC
- arranged marriage
- fated mates
and so much more!
I love the sunshine vs. grumpy trope, and here, the roles are reversed—the FMC is the grumpy one, and the MMC is the sunshine one. Although I feel it's entirely unfair to characterize Esta, the FMC, as a grumpy character. Yes, she is morally grey, black even, and her actions and words cut deep, but once you learn more about her past, it is so apparent why she is the way she is. Her growth and how she shielded and eventually managed to start the healing process was executed beautifully.
Aidan, the MMC, is the perfect complement to Esta. Their personalities balance each other, and their growth and development together is a key aspect of the story.
B. B. Salem has crafted a fantasy narrative that delves into the depths of hurt, trauma, betrayal, and inner demons, but also shines with love, hope, and devotion. As an ARC reader, I was privileged to experience this journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend To Mend A Broken Heart. Prepare to be fully immersed in this captivating story.
To Mend A Broken Heart will gift you
- adult romantasy standalone
- dark topics
- trauma healing
- reverse grumpy vs. sunshine trope
- morally grey FMC
- golden retriever MMC
- arranged marriage
- fated mates
and so much more!
June 11, 2024
I hereby establish an Aiden fanclub !!! What a sweetie 🥺🥺🥺
Even though I didn’t read the Fear & Fire duology (a shame, I am aware) I did really enjoy the world where this book takes place! The things that the FMC has gone through are horrible and she has become very bitter and damaged :( even though she needed her justice, I didn’t particularly like all the unnecessary deaths, like when she had tantrums, just randomly killing innocent employees who made small, insignificant mistakes :(
Nevertheless I have to say this book was so fast paced that I flew through it very easily !!!
Tysm for the e-arc of this book 🥰
Even though I didn’t read the Fear & Fire duology (a shame, I am aware) I did really enjoy the world where this book takes place! The things that the FMC has gone through are horrible and she has become very bitter and damaged :( even though she needed her justice, I didn’t particularly like all the unnecessary deaths, like when she had tantrums, just randomly killing innocent employees who made small, insignificant mistakes :(
Nevertheless I have to say this book was so fast paced that I flew through it very easily !!!
Tysm for the e-arc of this book 🥰
June 9, 2024
Oh my goodness was this book amazing! I was sent this book as an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review and so here it is. This book by far exceeded my expectations. I love the dynamic between Aiden and Esta, the world building, and how badass Esta is. I love the reverse grumpy sunshine trope and was so excited to finally see it in a fantasy book! (there is NOT enough of this trope in fantasy) It was so nice to see Esta go through a character development and heal with Aiden’s help. This will from now on be one of favorite fantasy reads and a new comfort read for me! Thank you so much for the ARC Bo and I will be reading more of your books!
July 29, 2024
4.5⭐️
I was really surprised when I really enjoyed this book. I haven’t read a book from this author before so I didn’t know if to mend a broken heart would be for me or not. But it definitely. I didn’t question the authors writing skills but I questioned if I could keep up because often these types of royal books are pretty complicated especially with magic systems and multiple kinds of elf’s or fae’s.
This was so easy to follow along and I enjoyed every single bit.
The opposite attracts in this book surprised me the most. I’m not always an opposite attracts type of person because it’s always so overdone and exaggerated but this was not the case. The two fit together so well and I’m so sad the book ended because I want to read more about them.
I would definitely recommend if you want the best balance between romance and fantasy!
Thank you to the author for giving me this e-arc in exchange for my honest review!
I was really surprised when I really enjoyed this book. I haven’t read a book from this author before so I didn’t know if to mend a broken heart would be for me or not. But it definitely. I didn’t question the authors writing skills but I questioned if I could keep up because often these types of royal books are pretty complicated especially with magic systems and multiple kinds of elf’s or fae’s.
This was so easy to follow along and I enjoyed every single bit.
The opposite attracts in this book surprised me the most. I’m not always an opposite attracts type of person because it’s always so overdone and exaggerated but this was not the case. The two fit together so well and I’m so sad the book ended because I want to read more about them.
I would definitely recommend if you want the best balance between romance and fantasy!
Thank you to the author for giving me this e-arc in exchange for my honest review!
June 11, 2024
Okay first I would like to say, i proofread this book so I know Bo changed things after reading this book.
Slow burns are not my favorite reads and I do like the Fear and Fire duology better, but this is personal preferences. I have nothing bad to say about how the book was written, because even thought it’s not my cup of tea: the plot was written well and I liked the characters and their point of view.
I enjoyed Esta since she is one of my favorite characters and I loved to read more from her point of view!
Slow burns are not my favorite reads and I do like the Fear and Fire duology better, but this is personal preferences. I have nothing bad to say about how the book was written, because even thought it’s not my cup of tea: the plot was written well and I liked the characters and their point of view.
I enjoyed Esta since she is one of my favorite characters and I loved to read more from her point of view!
July 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an e-ARC of "To Mend a Broken Heart" from the author, for which I am very grateful. This was my first ARC, and I was incredibly excited about this book. Having read many positive reviews about B.B. Salem, I was eager to dive into her work, and I was not disappointed.
"To Mend a Broken Heart" by B.B. Salem is a great and emotionally touching novel that grabbed my attention from the beginning. This was my first book by Salem, and I am really impressed by her storytelling. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are both sad and hopeful. The way Salem talks about love, loss, and healing is truly amazing.
The only regret I have is not having read her other series first. From what I've heard, it offers more background and context that would have made this book even better. Even so, "To Mend a Broken Heart" is strong on its own and provides a satisfying reading experience.
Overall, it's a beautifully written novel that I would recommend to anyone looking for a moving and well-crafted story. I'm excited to read more of Salem's work.
Her writing style truly fascinated me. Her ability to weave intricate and emotional narratives left a lasting impression. After reading "To Mend a Broken Heart," I am confident in exploring her other works without hesitation. Salem's talent for creating compelling characters and engaging stories assures me that her other books will be just as captivating.
I received an e-ARC of "To Mend a Broken Heart" from the author, for which I am very grateful. This was my first ARC, and I was incredibly excited about this book. Having read many positive reviews about B.B. Salem, I was eager to dive into her work, and I was not disappointed.
"To Mend a Broken Heart" by B.B. Salem is a great and emotionally touching novel that grabbed my attention from the beginning. This was my first book by Salem, and I am really impressed by her storytelling. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are both sad and hopeful. The way Salem talks about love, loss, and healing is truly amazing.
The only regret I have is not having read her other series first. From what I've heard, it offers more background and context that would have made this book even better. Even so, "To Mend a Broken Heart" is strong on its own and provides a satisfying reading experience.
Overall, it's a beautifully written novel that I would recommend to anyone looking for a moving and well-crafted story. I'm excited to read more of Salem's work.
Her writing style truly fascinated me. Her ability to weave intricate and emotional narratives left a lasting impression. After reading "To Mend a Broken Heart," I am confident in exploring her other works without hesitation. Salem's talent for creating compelling characters and engaging stories assures me that her other books will be just as captivating.
August 24, 2024
ARC received from the author.
Absolutely adored this!!
I believe it’s my first (?) romantasy and it was better than I could hope for!
Esta is definitely my kind of main character. She’s strong, ruthless, and a killer queen ;) While Aiden is sweetheart with a big spoon of ‘touch her and I’ll kill you’. Their chemistry is off the charts.
Perfect combination of black cat and golden retriever.
I really enjoyed the balance between the plot and the romance as well as intriguing characters. Had me giggling, blushing, and having the urge to commit murder, as one should.
This won’t be the last book I read of the author. Already have my eyes on her other books!
Absolutely adored this!!
I believe it’s my first (?) romantasy and it was better than I could hope for!
Esta is definitely my kind of main character. She’s strong, ruthless, and a killer queen ;) While Aiden is sweetheart with a big spoon of ‘touch her and I’ll kill you’. Their chemistry is off the charts.
Perfect combination of black cat and golden retriever.
I really enjoyed the balance between the plot and the romance as well as intriguing characters. Had me giggling, blushing, and having the urge to commit murder, as one should.
This won’t be the last book I read of the author. Already have my eyes on her other books!
July 9, 2024
Oh my gosh. I really loved Aiden in this book.
Aiden is my new book boyfriend and my new husband please marry me.
So i really loved Aiden in this book and Esta started to grow on me throughout the story she isn't my favorite character but i get it why People love her. I do liked the plot of this book and that to see Esta grow. I havent read the first two books in this world yet but i sure am now. (This book was a stand alone)
Thé story of Alina seems interesting (and it has dragons who could say no to dragons) Also that Cover really like the cover! It's beautifull.
.
Bo her writing style is very easy to read and very funn! I knew her because of Four seasons crown which i loved. And i Will for sure support all her other books she would write. I got this book as An ARC so thank you Bo for sending me this ARC! I enjoyed reading this book!
Aiden is my new book boyfriend and my new husband please marry me.
So i really loved Aiden in this book and Esta started to grow on me throughout the story she isn't my favorite character but i get it why People love her. I do liked the plot of this book and that to see Esta grow. I havent read the first two books in this world yet but i sure am now. (This book was a stand alone)
Thé story of Alina seems interesting (and it has dragons who could say no to dragons) Also that Cover really like the cover! It's beautifull.
.
Bo her writing style is very easy to read and very funn! I knew her because of Four seasons crown which i loved. And i Will for sure support all her other books she would write. I got this book as An ARC so thank you Bo for sending me this ARC! I enjoyed reading this book!
July 10, 2024
I received this as an eARC and am so glad I did! Slow burn romances aren’t always my favorite but this one I didn’t mind. Aiden is, in my opinion, what every female wants in a MMC! Esta has her moments of annoyance but overall a great FMC who starts off in power. Highly recommend if you enjoy fantasy romance without a lot of spice.
November 9, 2023
Review in progress but my lord this is a freaking 5 star read!
June 20, 2024
4,5 | 5 💌 | I‘m really thankful for receiving an e-arc of „To Mend A Broken Heart“ and getting to read about Esta and Aiden. At first I couldn’t get into it because the „immediately falling for each other“-situation confused me a little, but after finding out that they were bonded and he was „drawn“ to her it made sense and I got really emotionally invested in the story! I love how Esta grew as a character throughout the story and how deeply Aiden cared for her, the story is really character driven and even though I haven’t read the Fear and Fire duology the story was still very enjoyable. The fast pacing and ongoing drama/action never lost pace and I couldn’t put my kindle down. One thing that I also very loved was that Aiden saw Esta‘s flaws but never saw them as a deal breaker their dynamic was really interesting because they balanced each other out; while Esta was hot headed and stubborn Aiden was gentle (with her) and patient, and despite that they still challenged each other. Kai and snakes in general symbolizing Esta’s mother was also a very small but sweet detail. 💗
February 10, 2025
What can I say about this book. I received the E- ARC which I am beyond grateful for. Even tho this is a late review I still really enjoyed this book. Esta was my favorite character sinds the beginning and you really see her character growth in this spin off book from the original duology. In this book you see how a very broken person gets to heal from very traumatic experiences. It was absolutely beautiful to see Esta grow as a person and see how she really thrusts someone for the first time who treats her like everyone deserves to be treated. To me it was relatable to see her open up to her emotions and letting someone love and care for you for the first time ever. Aiden is also just a great character which I really enjoyed reading about. I hope to see more of these two in upcoming books.💜🌟
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 21, 2024
B.B Salem has done it again. My favorite character Esta got her own book, so I was very excited to read this!
The grumpy x sunshine trope has been executed perfectly. Aiden and Esta get to know each other well and I love all the magical aspects of this story. It's well written and easy to follow. Even if you haven't read the prequel duology Fear and Fire, I can imagine this book is still a good read! 100% recommend and 5/5 ⭐.
I can't wait for more books from Bo. 🧚🏻♀️✨
The grumpy x sunshine trope has been executed perfectly. Aiden and Esta get to know each other well and I love all the magical aspects of this story. It's well written and easy to follow. Even if you haven't read the prequel duology Fear and Fire, I can imagine this book is still a good read! 100% recommend and 5/5 ⭐.
I can't wait for more books from Bo. 🧚🏻♀️✨
June 18, 2024
I received the e-ARC of this book.
Absolute brilliance of a story! Quick paced, but not rushed. The touch him and die was the icing on the cake! Esta is such a badass and Aiden is such a sweetheart!
Also, Kai is the best boi.
Absolute brilliance of a story! Quick paced, but not rushed. The touch him and die was the icing on the cake! Esta is such a badass and Aiden is such a sweetheart!
Also, Kai is the best boi.
June 18, 2024
I freaking loved this one, bo u got my heart and soul girl 🤣
July 3, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because I loved every bit of it.
I have received this e-book as an arc reader. Thank you for this and she knows by now I'm fangirling over her books.
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I loved the story. There was so much pain, hurt, trauma and a loss of trust that you could just feel. But there was also a lot of passion, tension and this overall healing vibe.
My emotions were all over the place and it had soms plot twists I did not see coming. Normally I see things coming from a mile away. It had me laughing, in shock, sobbing and angry at times. I do have to say B.B. Salem her humour shines through in her books and I am here for it!
I did have some trouble at the beginning with all the names, titles and places. But I guess that is just a thing whenever reading a new fantasy? It might have been different had I read her other two books before this one (Fear & Fire and Power & Ash. Note that this is not a part of the same series), but I wasn't lost. Will be reading them next!
I am curious as to what will be coming next, as if I don't know, and how she will grow as an author!
I have received this e-book as an arc reader. Thank you for this and she knows by now I'm fangirling over her books.
----
I loved the story. There was so much pain, hurt, trauma and a loss of trust that you could just feel. But there was also a lot of passion, tension and this overall healing vibe.
My emotions were all over the place and it had soms plot twists I did not see coming. Normally I see things coming from a mile away. It had me laughing, in shock, sobbing and angry at times. I do have to say B.B. Salem her humour shines through in her books and I am here for it!
I did have some trouble at the beginning with all the names, titles and places. But I guess that is just a thing whenever reading a new fantasy? It might have been different had I read her other two books before this one (Fear & Fire and Power & Ash. Note that this is not a part of the same series), but I wasn't lost. Will be reading them next!
I am curious as to what will be coming next, as if I don't know, and how she will grow as an author!
May 28, 2024
I was a beta reader for this book so it isn’t out yet, and here are my thoughts.
Wow, what an emotional rollercoaster this was! First of all, it was so fun to read about the characters of the Fear & Fire duology again. I always loved Esta, so a book about her, yes please! Secondly, it was very sad to see Esta trying to keep her protective wall up, because of all the things haunting her from her past. And lastly, it was beautiful to see her growing as a person and to finally get the treatment she deserves.
Note: this book is more on the romance side, taking place in a fantasy world, which isn’t normally my cup of tea, hence the 4-star rating. But besides that, I absolutely loved reading this book! Had me laughing, gasping, on the verge of crying and wishing for a real life Aiden!
Wow, what an emotional rollercoaster this was! First of all, it was so fun to read about the characters of the Fear & Fire duology again. I always loved Esta, so a book about her, yes please! Secondly, it was very sad to see Esta trying to keep her protective wall up, because of all the things haunting her from her past. And lastly, it was beautiful to see her growing as a person and to finally get the treatment she deserves.
Note: this book is more on the romance side, taking place in a fantasy world, which isn’t normally my cup of tea, hence the 4-star rating. But besides that, I absolutely loved reading this book! Had me laughing, gasping, on the verge of crying and wishing for a real life Aiden!
July 20, 2024
Big thankyou to the author for the e-ARC of this book <3
To Mend a Broken Heart is a standalone but happens after the events of the Fear & Fire duology.
I didn't read the duology yet but I can say it's still perfect to read as your first book! The plot was easy to follow and I was sucked into the story easily.
I absolutely loved Aiden and Esta and their grumpy vs. sunshine dynamic! The character development is also unreal and I loved seeing them grow with eachother.
Big thanks once again to B.B. Salem for the e-ARC and I cannot wait to start the next story. (I am patiëntly waiting on 'The Four Seasons Crown' special edition hehe)
To Mend a Broken Heart is a standalone but happens after the events of the Fear & Fire duology.
I didn't read the duology yet but I can say it's still perfect to read as your first book! The plot was easy to follow and I was sucked into the story easily.
I absolutely loved Aiden and Esta and their grumpy vs. sunshine dynamic! The character development is also unreal and I loved seeing them grow with eachother.
Big thanks once again to B.B. Salem for the e-ARC and I cannot wait to start the next story. (I am patiëntly waiting on 'The Four Seasons Crown' special edition hehe)
June 27, 2024
I received an arc from the B.B Salem so thank you.
I absolutely loved this it was fast paced with lots of twists along the way! Esta as a character is written really well and you really see her grow as a character. I loved all the cute moments we get in this book it was just adorable. I like how we see characters from fear and fire duology it was really nice to see them.
I highly recommend everyone should read this
I absolutely loved this it was fast paced with lots of twists along the way! Esta as a character is written really well and you really see her grow as a character. I loved all the cute moments we get in this book it was just adorable. I like how we see characters from fear and fire duology it was really nice to see them.
I highly recommend everyone should read this
December 25, 2024
It was beautiful 🥹
July 24, 2024
After meeting B.B. Salem a few months back in Amsterdam, I knew I wanted to read her books. So when I got the opportunity to read an ARC I got super excited and started reading as soon as I could.
In ‘To Mend a Broken Heart’ we meet Esta the Queen of Vouhan. Esta always knew she wanted to become Queen and make her father proud. Now she finally is Queen, and now her court is forcing her to find a husband. To make sure she picks her own husband, Esta travels to Fiona to find someone willing to marry her without any of the emotional baggage. Esta meets Aiden, and he seems perfect for the job. But Aiden has a big secret, and when that secrets comes out Esta is forced to make an important decision.
When I started reading To Mend A Broken Heart, I found myself intrigued with the main character Esta. She seemed really harsh and a bit arrogant and she definitely wasn’t your average female character. Then there is Aiden, he was kind and clearly attracted to Esta. He was definitely the bit of sunshine in this story.
Right from the start of the book a lot of things are happening, and things move really fast. This wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, I was curious and the writing definitely made me want to keep on reading. This story involved Elves and Fae. And there even was a dragon. The romance was a bit mellow for my taste, but it was still fun.
‘To Mend a Broken Heart’ was an enjoyable read. I enjoyed the setting, and the characters where fun and different. It did move way to fast for my taste and I missed some depth. But overall, definitely an author I’ll be interested in reading more of.
In ‘To Mend a Broken Heart’ we meet Esta the Queen of Vouhan. Esta always knew she wanted to become Queen and make her father proud. Now she finally is Queen, and now her court is forcing her to find a husband. To make sure she picks her own husband, Esta travels to Fiona to find someone willing to marry her without any of the emotional baggage. Esta meets Aiden, and he seems perfect for the job. But Aiden has a big secret, and when that secrets comes out Esta is forced to make an important decision.
When I started reading To Mend A Broken Heart, I found myself intrigued with the main character Esta. She seemed really harsh and a bit arrogant and she definitely wasn’t your average female character. Then there is Aiden, he was kind and clearly attracted to Esta. He was definitely the bit of sunshine in this story.
Right from the start of the book a lot of things are happening, and things move really fast. This wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, I was curious and the writing definitely made me want to keep on reading. This story involved Elves and Fae. And there even was a dragon. The romance was a bit mellow for my taste, but it was still fun.
‘To Mend a Broken Heart’ was an enjoyable read. I enjoyed the setting, and the characters where fun and different. It did move way to fast for my taste and I missed some depth. But overall, definitely an author I’ll be interested in reading more of.
July 31, 2024
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This one was a long ride and I was looking forward to reading this since I found it on Instagram, but it ended up being a little anticlimactic at the end.
We follow the journey of Esta, the new Queen of Vouhan, after her father’s death and her older brother choosing to abdicate the throne. To please the court of her realm to leave her alone, she goes on a short journey with her half-sister in search of an arranged marriage.
Until then, everything was fine. The writing style was not really what I usually enjoy and I often found it too simplistic, with the author constantly over-explaining actions and meanings as if the reader wouldn't understand the intentions behind them. It felt like I was reading a middle school book except for the really heavy themes being thrown in now and then.
I couldn't care less for the side characters. Maya, Esta's half-sister, was the least infuriating one and with the most personality of all of them considering that almost everyone had the complexion of a cardboard box (I'm looking at you, Alina). None of them were captivating for me.
Overall, I don't think this book was for me. With that said, maybe one day I'll give the other books a chance to see if I like them better, but this one was a little disappointing.
This one was a long ride and I was looking forward to reading this since I found it on Instagram, but it ended up being a little anticlimactic at the end.
We follow the journey of Esta, the new Queen of Vouhan, after her father’s death and her older brother choosing to abdicate the throne. To please the court of her realm to leave her alone, she goes on a short journey with her half-sister in search of an arranged marriage.
Until then, everything was fine. The writing style was not really what I usually enjoy and I often found it too simplistic, with the author constantly over-explaining actions and meanings as if the reader wouldn't understand the intentions behind them. It felt like I was reading a middle school book except for the really heavy themes being thrown in now and then.
I couldn't care less for the side characters. Maya, Esta's half-sister, was the least infuriating one and with the most personality of all of them considering that almost everyone had the complexion of a cardboard box (I'm looking at you, Alina). None of them were captivating for me.
Overall, I don't think this book was for me. With that said, maybe one day I'll give the other books a chance to see if I like them better, but this one was a little disappointing.
August 21, 2024
In to mend a broken heart maken we eerst kennis met Esta, de koningin van Vouhan. Ze zit nog niet zo lang op de troon en toch blijven de mensen aan haar hof zeuren over een huwelijk want ze willen een troonopvolger. Als het, het hof uiteindelijk te lang duurt geven ze Esta 2 weken. Anders moet ze verplicht trouwen. Dus besluit Esta naar buurland Fiora te gaan. En daar een Fae partner te zoeken. Daar zullen de elven vast erg blij mee zijn.
Aiden is de Prins van Fiora. Nadat hij Esta ontmoet heeft hoort hij dat ze op zoek is naar iemand voor een nep huwelijk, om haar hof voor de gek te houden. Aiden verteld iedereen dat hij de taak op zich neemt! Maar waarom? En zal Esta hiermee akkoord gaan?
Jaaaa wat een goed boek 😍 het leest echt heerlijk! Je leest het begin voornamelijk vanuit Esta en leert haar kennen onder andere door terugblikken over haar verleden. Esta heeft veel mee gemaakt en heeft daardoor erg hoge muren om zichzelf heen gebouwd. Zij is de grumpy persoon in dit verhaal en het is echt zo goed omschreven! Ook vond ik het erg fijn om weer eens een boek zonder smut te lezen. Het valt voor mij zeker wel onder romantasy. Maar zonder de expliciete smut scènes.
Dus als je opzoek bent naar een clean romantasy met grumpy sunshine raad ik dit boek zeker aan! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ En kan niet wachten om meer van deze schrijfster op te pakken.
Aiden is de Prins van Fiora. Nadat hij Esta ontmoet heeft hoort hij dat ze op zoek is naar iemand voor een nep huwelijk, om haar hof voor de gek te houden. Aiden verteld iedereen dat hij de taak op zich neemt! Maar waarom? En zal Esta hiermee akkoord gaan?
Jaaaa wat een goed boek 😍 het leest echt heerlijk! Je leest het begin voornamelijk vanuit Esta en leert haar kennen onder andere door terugblikken over haar verleden. Esta heeft veel mee gemaakt en heeft daardoor erg hoge muren om zichzelf heen gebouwd. Zij is de grumpy persoon in dit verhaal en het is echt zo goed omschreven! Ook vond ik het erg fijn om weer eens een boek zonder smut te lezen. Het valt voor mij zeker wel onder romantasy. Maar zonder de expliciete smut scènes.
Dus als je opzoek bent naar een clean romantasy met grumpy sunshine raad ik dit boek zeker aan! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ En kan niet wachten om meer van deze schrijfster op te pakken.
Read
August 14, 2024⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I received an e-ARC after being introduced to the author through her hilarious TikToks and was curious about her novels.
As previously stated in other reviews, this novel can be read as a standalone fantasy, but the experience would be enriched if you’ve read the author’s Fear & Fire duology.
This novel is centered around Esta, who has recently become the leader of her people. She is a fiercely independent character who has a tough exterior as a result of her father using her as a political tool. Esta faces struggles immediately upon taking the throne. She is pressured into marriage by her court so that she may provide an heir and at the same time, her legitimacy as a leader is put into question as her people face devastating attacks from an unknown enemy. Esta decides to temporarily quell the concerns about an heir by quickly securing a “husband” so that she can focus on protecting her people. Esta soon finds herself battling not only the unknown enemy, but also her heart.
Reading this quick paced novel was an entertaining experience. It has several well loved tropes and a group of comforting characters that make you feel warm and fuzzy. I will definitely be reading the other novels by this author and look forward to her future works.
I received an e-ARC after being introduced to the author through her hilarious TikToks and was curious about her novels.
As previously stated in other reviews, this novel can be read as a standalone fantasy, but the experience would be enriched if you’ve read the author’s Fear & Fire duology.
This novel is centered around Esta, who has recently become the leader of her people. She is a fiercely independent character who has a tough exterior as a result of her father using her as a political tool. Esta faces struggles immediately upon taking the throne. She is pressured into marriage by her court so that she may provide an heir and at the same time, her legitimacy as a leader is put into question as her people face devastating attacks from an unknown enemy. Esta decides to temporarily quell the concerns about an heir by quickly securing a “husband” so that she can focus on protecting her people. Esta soon finds herself battling not only the unknown enemy, but also her heart.
Reading this quick paced novel was an entertaining experience. It has several well loved tropes and a group of comforting characters that make you feel warm and fuzzy. I will definitely be reading the other novels by this author and look forward to her future works.
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