A Battle of Heart and Mind

by Jess L. Forecast

A Battle of Heart and Mind is the first instalment of a captivating trilogy which takes place in the world of Maelern.

Journey across the kingdom with Venya and Ardin on a hunt for truth, revenge and unexpected romance.

Venya has pushed through each day since the death of her parents, unable to recall the event. But when a stranger mentions an encounter with a murderer, Venya swears revenge. Soon she discovers what she saw on that fateful night, may not be all it seemed.
Ardin has been fighting for his life as long as he can remember. He challenges the town champion, wagers on his victory, mounts his horse and rides on. He has little to live for, and even less to lose.
But when Venya enters his life Ardin finds himself with a decision to make. Should he keep running from his past? Hiding in the shadows? Or face the truth and hope it doesn’t consume him.

488 pages, Paperback

First published November 16, 2025

About the author

I'm passionate about telling stories and love to share the worlds I create with readers.

Reviews

[Chloe Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

i absolutely INHALED this book in one evening !! perfect for fans of romantasy, this first book checks every mark for all the things you could possibly ask for. the ending had me begging for more and i cannot wait to see where this trilogy goes !

[Hayleigh Jesus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a captivating read. One of those books that you can't put down. One of those moments when you promise yourself one more chapter, then 5 chapters later your still there. Each character is bought to life with such detail, it's like your there in the book playing a part alongside each character. A fantastic trilogy of magical and mystical adventure bought to life. I can't wait to get burrowed into the next book. The author speaks right to you with every word you read, a truely brilliant book! Go grab the 1st book, curl up, grab a cuppa and get lost in a world bought to life through your eyes.

[Effy Pittway]

I absolutely adored reading this book, it was perfect to get cosy with and as the first book in a trilogy it absolutely lined it up perfectly for book two.

Perfect for fans of fantasy romance!

[Niamh · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect romantasy read! I loved the story it kept me hooked the whole way along and absolutely fell in love with the characters❤️ also what and ending!!! Excited for the trilogy to continue

[Emma Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the one to get me out of my reading slump! The characters really came to life and I felt as though I was there in the book. You will not be disappointed. Thank you for a wonderful reading experience!