Prisoner of the Heart

by H.E Gober

We were just passing through Avala so Winnie could go home. And because the High King believes we stepped on some sacred stick, we are now considered his prisoners.

If he were smart, he’d let us go. If not for his own good—than at least for the survival of Avala and its Folk. With everything crumbling around me, I am more confused than ever. I have to choose between two High Kings, save a realm, survive Winnie, bring back the true meaning of Higher Folk, mend past relationships, and try not to lose my shit or myself in the process! ... no pressure.

In H.E. Gober's, Prisoner of the Heart, the thrilling conclusion of the Heart Duology, this emotionally charged fantasy romance will leave you breathless and gripping the edge of your seat. So, grab your tissues—no character is safe on this wild ride.

398 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 27, 2024

Reviews

[Gnome Patronus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Little Bird. Yep, we’re back with that nickname, and I still have a love-hate relationship with it. Because COME ON ALREADY!!! The story picks up right where book one left off (so YES, you must read book one first to understand the emotional chaos these characters are wading through). Book one left me rooting for Kali to push through the physical trials and discover her inner strength. But book two? Oh, this is where it all gets torn down. It’s a cocktail of self-destruction, denial, depression, doubt, determination, discovery, and devotion. That’s a lot of D’s—and trust me, there’s some of that too. 👀

Anyway, back to the book. The tension in this story is chef’s kiss—you’ll feel like that thread holding it all together is about to snap at any moment. And honestly, if it doesn’t, you might want to snap at Kali yourself. That girl, woman, FEMALE—whatever you want to call her—needed a good smack more than once. But let’s not dump all the blame on her, because there’s Jak. WAIT. Nope. I refuse to drag my man Jak through the mud. He’s perfect and can melt the ice around my heart anytime. Instead, let’s turn our attention to bird boy—yes, that one. Bird-brained, feather-shedding, arrogance-on-legs. Some of you will love his cocky attitude, but for me? Nah. Team Jak all the way.

The author nailed the high fantasy elements, weaving in new creatures and lore without ever feeling like an info dump. The emotional complexity of Kali, as she battles her own instincts to protect herself while learning to let people in, is painfully relatable—whether you’re in this fantasy world or not.

If you love easy-to-read fantasy packed with trials of the physical, emotional, and mental variety (and some serious slow burn), this is the series for you. While there’s a book three on the way, you could absolutely stop at books one and two and feel satisfied (unless you’re nosy like me and NEED all the details for every single character). So what are you waiting for? Go read it. You know you’re curious about this bird-brained mess of a world. 🖤

[Rizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been DYING for this book since I read the first one back in January, and I am happy to report that it did not disappoint.

The dynamics between the characters are on point, shifting the reader between laughter and sorrow in all the best ways. I enjoyed the interactions between Jak and Kali, and absolutely ADORED every moment Winnie was on the page. Each one of them was brilliantly written and had me falling in love with these characters all over again.

Along with the banter, we have a world that is full of fascinating creatures and is so well described that I could feel the cold of the snow and hear the calls of the beasts whenever the characters stepped out of the mountain.

And did I mention the lore? The layers this story have go beyond anything I've ever read. It's enigmatic charm had me in its hold until the very end. I loved every second of this book, even when it crushed my heart, and I hope everyone else enjoys it as much as I did. Just make sure that you have plenty of tissues. You're gonna need them.

[Missbookwormwrites (Cynthia) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I raged
I laughed
I cried
I had all the emotions and in the end, I was in disbelief that it was over.
I absolutely loved this book. It surpassed all my expectations as a sequel. Kali and Jak have such intense chemistry, that I get butterflies in my tummy every time I read a scene with them interacting.
Fair warning: do not get attached to anyone or anything. Trust me. This author is not afraid, nor does she hold back when it came to character deaths.
My heart still hurts from it.

Otherwise, it was such a perfect story, full of high stakes, fated mates and world shattering prophecies.
I cannot wait to see what H.E. Gober has in store for us next.

[Leslie Kilpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ADORE this series! I loved the bit of spice in these. These are great for people who want enough to go with the story but not just have front to cover spice or spice thrown in with no progression to the story. Def my fav High Fantasy novel series of the year

This novel continues the story of our FMC, Kali, as she maneuvers through her journey of self healing and saving a realm. Buckle up for this second half. Grab your cover and tissues. You’re not going to want to miss the conclusion to this duet.

[Angela Arnaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best read ever.

H E Gober takes you on an adventure and emotional roller coaster. I laughed, cried, and got angry. I wanted to hug some characters and slap others. I cannot wait to see what else this author writes.

[Melissa Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantasy filled with emotions

Kali's story is filled with so many emotions. That is especially true for this second book. When she finally allows her wall to crumble, she sees the love she was blind to. Grieves the loss of the loved ones she lost and takes her places high Queen.

[Author Mike Froom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've yet to read a single book by this phenomenal author that I didn't love! The worlds that she has created feel real and tangible, making places that I wish I could visit. Quite a few of here more monstrous creatures have made appearances in my nightmares. this book will make you feel things.

[Audury Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two and heartbreakingly beautiful in so many ways!!! I laughed, cried, and fell in love with the characters. The trials and triumphs these characters went through is something else. The world H.E. Gober created is something to be celebrated. This amazing world was so thoroughly thought out that it feels real. You feel like you are apart of the group and fighting right alongside of them. I can not wait for book 3 to come out!!!

[Marissa Atchison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trials of the Heart had me on the edge of my seat, but this one takes the cake. Kali has so much on her plate in this book while having to deal with Jak. There were so many things I didn’t expect in this story, and some really heartbreaking things too. Trials was amazing, but Prisoner is even better!!!!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has twists that will keep you wanting to read and not stop until you finish. The characters dynamics is this book are wonderful.

[Heather Nazarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely fell in love with these characters, but Winnie is my favorite. The laughs, the tears. It was everything. Book 3 needs to hurry up.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

So freaking good! I feel fulfilled! ❤️