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Broken Blade: Faie Wars Book 1
** THIS BOOK CONTAINS BRAWLING, MAGIC, SHIFTERS, SWEARING, AND DECIDEDLY UNLADYLIKE BEHAVIOR. PROCEED WITH CAUTION. **
My name is Anastacia Artemis Kane. If you call me any variation other than Stacia, you might end up walking with a limp.
My entire adult life was spent in the military, first as a U.S. Marine, then as a team leader in the Combined Forces. Superbly trained and highly skilled, my job was hunting Metamorphs and Mages across the world, doing my part to make it a better place for those that couldn’t fight monsters.
Then they tried to kill me. It didn't stick, but it was damn close.
I have an idea who it was, but no one believed me. I’m not sure I believed it, but I resigned anyway.
Now, my world has gone to hell in a handbasket. Again. I’m heading to the one place I’ve been avoiding. The one that scares me the most.
Just the thought of going there is trying to drive me mad…
Can you ever, truly, go home?
And… will the darkness follow?
Let’s find out.
My name is Anastacia Artemis Kane. If you call me any variation other than Stacia, you might end up walking with a limp.
My entire adult life was spent in the military, first as a U.S. Marine, then as a team leader in the Combined Forces. Superbly trained and highly skilled, my job was hunting Metamorphs and Mages across the world, doing my part to make it a better place for those that couldn’t fight monsters.
Then they tried to kill me. It didn't stick, but it was damn close.
I have an idea who it was, but no one believed me. I’m not sure I believed it, but I resigned anyway.
Now, my world has gone to hell in a handbasket. Again. I’m heading to the one place I’ve been avoiding. The one that scares me the most.
Just the thought of going there is trying to drive me mad…
Can you ever, truly, go home?
And… will the darkness follow?
Let’s find out.
418 pages, Paperback
Published December 22, 2024
About the author
K.L. Asmussen
7 books2 followersK.L. Asmussen is a book-addicted, twister of tales, working in service to the voices in his head.
He resides in rural Colorado with his wife and their horde of furry miscreants. When not working on the latest Faie Wars novel, he has his nose buried in a book. In between, he crafts delicious meals for friends and family while waging the never-ending war against cat hair.
The two are not always mutually exclusive, so just spit that out and move on.
He resides in rural Colorado with his wife and their horde of furry miscreants. When not working on the latest Faie Wars novel, he has his nose buried in a book. In between, he crafts delicious meals for friends and family while waging the never-ending war against cat hair.
The two are not always mutually exclusive, so just spit that out and move on.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 13, 2025
Ate this up! The main character is so incredible! The story was amazing and the magic was so interesting! The supporting characters are just as amazing! Cannot wait to continue the series!!!
September 16, 2026
“Sometimes, things crumple because they must. It doesn’t mean they failed.”
You know how there are those kinds of hugs that put all your broken pieces back together for a moment? Well, this is that in book form.
With uh, knives and guns and magic—all the basic necessities for an action urban fantasy. Duh. And set in a world that feels both familiar and completely new and complex in the same breath.
Broken Blade by K.L. Asmussen writes witty banter, tear-jerking dialogue, and gun-wielding action so close together it’ll give you whiplash as you flip from page to page wondering, am I scared or am I gonna cry?
Our female protagonist is the aforementioned main gun-and-knife-wielder and, described once as “a one-woman arsenal,” tight-jawed and soft-hearted badass Stacia is more than just a well-trained soldier. She’s a strong willed character, an unwavering woman who’s learning how to be vulnerable and how to live again. Despite, ya know, all the odds. And the weaponry and sarcasm.
Matched with a lovable ragtag ensemble that checks every single found-family box you could possibly have.
If Dungeon Crawler Carl’s humor, Percy Jackson’s found family, and Arcane’s gritty action and urban-fantasy atmosphere had a very violent little baby, you’d get something like Broken Blade.
Asmussen doesn’t just write—he paints that picture and encapsulates that feeling that only good authors can: that this might be a violent-ass book, but it’s also my version of a hug.
You know how there are those kinds of hugs that put all your broken pieces back together for a moment? Well, this is that in book form.
With uh, knives and guns and magic—all the basic necessities for an action urban fantasy. Duh. And set in a world that feels both familiar and completely new and complex in the same breath.
Broken Blade by K.L. Asmussen writes witty banter, tear-jerking dialogue, and gun-wielding action so close together it’ll give you whiplash as you flip from page to page wondering, am I scared or am I gonna cry?
Our female protagonist is the aforementioned main gun-and-knife-wielder and, described once as “a one-woman arsenal,” tight-jawed and soft-hearted badass Stacia is more than just a well-trained soldier. She’s a strong willed character, an unwavering woman who’s learning how to be vulnerable and how to live again. Despite, ya know, all the odds. And the weaponry and sarcasm.
Matched with a lovable ragtag ensemble that checks every single found-family box you could possibly have.
If Dungeon Crawler Carl’s humor, Percy Jackson’s found family, and Arcane’s gritty action and urban-fantasy atmosphere had a very violent little baby, you’d get something like Broken Blade.
Asmussen doesn’t just write—he paints that picture and encapsulates that feeling that only good authors can: that this might be a violent-ass book, but it’s also my version of a hug.
November 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5, without spice!
So here's a little insider information: this is book 1, in a series of 8 (so far,) and 5 are already published! I am OBSESSED with this saga! This is like reading book 1 of the Game Of Thrones for the first time.
Told from the narrator's point of view, the FMC and MMC are adopted siblings that are highly decorated solidiers, with very special and elite skillsets, in a fantasy world, where magical powers have awoken in some of the world's population. In an effort to leave her military trauma behind her, Stacia (FMC,) seeks out her brother and finds trouble doesn't just find her, it follows her. As the author builds this world, he introduces a myriad of background/supporting characters, that each have incredible stories and personalities. There is a "battle scene" at the end, that I wanted a crap-ton more aggghhhhh, out of. It felt like the author held back or was approaching his word limit. Despite this, MY desired result was achieved. There was weaponry knowledge, humor, ("Bad doggy!" 😂) and I enjoyed the elevated vocabulary. Most book these days are written with a 5th-9th grade reading level. Also, side note- the book was printed on high quality paper.
I'm pretty impressive with a weapon in my hand, but let me say- I want to be Stacia when I grow up! @K.L. Asmussen - Author
#fyp #booktok #books #fantasy #amazing
So here's a little insider information: this is book 1, in a series of 8 (so far,) and 5 are already published! I am OBSESSED with this saga! This is like reading book 1 of the Game Of Thrones for the first time.
Told from the narrator's point of view, the FMC and MMC are adopted siblings that are highly decorated solidiers, with very special and elite skillsets, in a fantasy world, where magical powers have awoken in some of the world's population. In an effort to leave her military trauma behind her, Stacia (FMC,) seeks out her brother and finds trouble doesn't just find her, it follows her. As the author builds this world, he introduces a myriad of background/supporting characters, that each have incredible stories and personalities. There is a "battle scene" at the end, that I wanted a crap-ton more aggghhhhh, out of. It felt like the author held back or was approaching his word limit. Despite this, MY desired result was achieved. There was weaponry knowledge, humor, ("Bad doggy!" 😂) and I enjoyed the elevated vocabulary. Most book these days are written with a 5th-9th grade reading level. Also, side note- the book was printed on high quality paper.
I'm pretty impressive with a weapon in my hand, but let me say- I want to be Stacia when I grow up! @K.L. Asmussen - Author
#fyp #booktok #books #fantasy #amazing
August 26, 2026
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
4.5*
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
4.5*
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
October 20, 2025
I found this book difficult to get into, but it was because I went into it with the wrong expectations. I was expecting an action-packed story about a badass super-soldier woman in an American world got magical, but instead what I got was a feel-good story about a broken woman finding a home. Certainly not a problem, just not what I was expecting! So, if you like feel-good stories, this is for you!
The characters were all interesting and quirky (Robin is my favorite). However, it seemed like nearly every chapter there was some heart-to-heart or tears, which really got repetitive. Also, I didn't think the ending was very satisying with how .
Overall, a solid read if you want a feel-good story with a hint of magic and badassery!
The characters were all interesting and quirky (Robin is my favorite). However, it seemed like nearly every chapter there was some heart-to-heart or tears, which really got repetitive. Also, I didn't think the ending was very satisying with how .
Overall, a solid read if you want a feel-good story with a hint of magic and badassery!
October 21, 2025
Not much Spice, well I take that back Grandfather, that’s all I’m saying lol
Mild Violence, there is some but not super graphic
Kitten Cuteness, they are cuteness overload. But I feel they will come into play later. But I could be wrong!
Book 1 of this series for me was the world building, introducing the characters, some of their backgrounds, location, setting the tone etc
We are introduced to an eccentric mix of characters you can’t help but love. You see some start out as strangers but form a strong family unit, a pack. Some are human, some are more.
The MFC Stacia is a vet needing a place to call home, whether she realizes it or not, and goes to her brother who offers her more than what she thought was possible.
But things aren’t always easy as we see these characters with their struggles trying to fit in and belong and Fighting demons of their past that leaves wounds not always seen. And you see them lean on each other to find the way.
Stacia is a total badass but with a soft side she readily shows. There is more to her than meets the eye, she says she is human, but I feel she really isn’t.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book and glad I gave it a chance. You should too!
Mild Violence, there is some but not super graphic
Kitten Cuteness, they are cuteness overload. But I feel they will come into play later. But I could be wrong!
Book 1 of this series for me was the world building, introducing the characters, some of their backgrounds, location, setting the tone etc
We are introduced to an eccentric mix of characters you can’t help but love. You see some start out as strangers but form a strong family unit, a pack. Some are human, some are more.
The MFC Stacia is a vet needing a place to call home, whether she realizes it or not, and goes to her brother who offers her more than what she thought was possible.
But things aren’t always easy as we see these characters with their struggles trying to fit in and belong and Fighting demons of their past that leaves wounds not always seen. And you see them lean on each other to find the way.
Stacia is a total badass but with a soft side she readily shows. There is more to her than meets the eye, she says she is human, but I feel she really isn’t.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book and glad I gave it a chance. You should too!
January 2, 2026
I came into this book not knowing what to except, I just read it because I wanted to support the author and I am SO GLAD I did!
I love a good found family and this has that, plus so much more. Stacia is a badass FMC - she's a vet who has moved to come live with/work with her [adopted] brother. She fits right in with his band of misfits (Robin's my favorite, with Poe a close second).
I'm not typically a fantasy reader because I get so bored by world building, but this was done so well in this book! I love that the author didn't explicitly explain every little detail - I hate when characters over explain things to other characters that obviously already know that they're talking about and we had none of that! The world building was weaved so well into the story.
I loved this story and can't wait to continue the series!
I love a good found family and this has that, plus so much more. Stacia is a badass FMC - she's a vet who has moved to come live with/work with her [adopted] brother. She fits right in with his band of misfits (Robin's my favorite, with Poe a close second).
I'm not typically a fantasy reader because I get so bored by world building, but this was done so well in this book! I love that the author didn't explicitly explain every little detail - I hate when characters over explain things to other characters that obviously already know that they're talking about and we had none of that! The world building was weaved so well into the story.
I loved this story and can't wait to continue the series!
July 29, 2026
This book is a must-read for any urban fantasy fan.
It has a kick-ass female lead, shifters, mages, found family, and the vibes are absolutely immaculate. The writing style is also incredibly immersive and distinctive. The author really has a special way with words.
That said, I did feel the pacing was a bit uneven at times. Some sections felt too slow, while the final battle wrapped up a little too quickly. I also hate to say it, but the kitten subplot didn't quite work for me. It just didn't make much sense in the context of the story.
Still, I absolutely recommend this book
It has a kick-ass female lead, shifters, mages, found family, and the vibes are absolutely immaculate. The writing style is also incredibly immersive and distinctive. The author really has a special way with words.
That said, I did feel the pacing was a bit uneven at times. Some sections felt too slow, while the final battle wrapped up a little too quickly. I also hate to say it, but the kitten subplot didn't quite work for me. It just didn't make much sense in the context of the story.
Still, I absolutely recommend this book
August 17, 2026
Deceptively good
I enjoyed Broken Blade as much for the characters as for the story, which was excellent, by the way. The author did a good job of balancing information we needed to know versus action and characters. I have to admit, by the end, I was pulling hard for the good guys! Try it. But be prepared, there are a bunch more in this series. You're gonna spend some cash, but you will not regret it in the slightest.
I enjoyed Broken Blade as much for the characters as for the story, which was excellent, by the way. The author did a good job of balancing information we needed to know versus action and characters. I have to admit, by the end, I was pulling hard for the good guys! Try it. But be prepared, there are a bunch more in this series. You're gonna spend some cash, but you will not regret it in the slightest.
May 31, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! The plot and character development were so good! As a Colorado native i loved being able to read about local places within the story. I already placed my order for the rest of the series and can't wait to read about Stacia and her family. This book was such a pleasant change to all the romantacy I see everyone else recommending online.
February 19, 2025
It’s a great start. I enjoyed the characters the most. I could hang out with them doing nothing and that’s fine. The story was not without its questions and confusing on who Ivy was and why that was never explained, but all in all, great job.
August 6, 2026
A must read for anyone who has ever yearned for a found family. The female main character could best be described as a porcupine. Sharp spines on the outside, but a vulnerable belly. I really enjoyed this one.
December 24, 2024
Entertaining!!
A great start, I enjoyed the characters and the world building. The interactions and conversation were fantastic. I'm looking forward to more
A great start, I enjoyed the characters and the world building. The interactions and conversation were fantastic. I'm looking forward to more
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews