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Cadence of the Fallen #2
A Ballad for the Broken
Lyra is gone. Draven is desperate. Bathara must rebuild in the ashes of its ruin.
Upon awakening in a foreign place she does not recognize, Lyra Izacalli faces the cold reality of her capture, demanding answers she does not easily receive—the ways of the world slowly shifting beneath her feet as everything she thought she knew is tested through her new surroundings.
Draven Dalmar searches tirelessly to bring Lyra home. Yet it seems every force in existence is working against him. Defeated yet not losing hope, he is forced to maneuver through a series of choices that could change everything as he knows it, soon learning the cost of Lyra’s freedom may just be his very own chains.
All the while, shifting circumstances bring some relationships closer together—despite tearing others apart. Secrets emerge from the forgotten shadows. Cruel games are played. And betrayal stains the horizon. Yet through it all, one thing remains true…
A girl who refuses to be a pawn does not simply lie down and give in.
She fights back.
A Ballad for the Broken is the second book in the richly imaginative Cadence of the Fallen series, perfect for fans of complex characters, political intrigue, found family, and sweeping romance.
Upon awakening in a foreign place she does not recognize, Lyra Izacalli faces the cold reality of her capture, demanding answers she does not easily receive—the ways of the world slowly shifting beneath her feet as everything she thought she knew is tested through her new surroundings.
Draven Dalmar searches tirelessly to bring Lyra home. Yet it seems every force in existence is working against him. Defeated yet not losing hope, he is forced to maneuver through a series of choices that could change everything as he knows it, soon learning the cost of Lyra’s freedom may just be his very own chains.
All the while, shifting circumstances bring some relationships closer together—despite tearing others apart. Secrets emerge from the forgotten shadows. Cruel games are played. And betrayal stains the horizon. Yet through it all, one thing remains true…
A girl who refuses to be a pawn does not simply lie down and give in.
She fights back.
A Ballad for the Broken is the second book in the richly imaginative Cadence of the Fallen series, perfect for fans of complex characters, political intrigue, found family, and sweeping romance.
694 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2026
About the author
Hazel S. Wilkes
3 books298 followersHazel is simply a lover of words and stories, overflowing with made-up worlds, scenarios, and characters. Ever since she was just a small girl, climbing out of her bedroom window to read on the roof under the stars with her trusted book light in hand (sorry, Mom), she has been enchanted by stories and the art of storytelling.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
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Currently Reading
July 12, 2026ㅤ ᯓ ✿ pre-reading ⪼
ㅤ ○ started ┆05-July-2026┆
ㅤ ㅤ ⤿ i really hope this series continues to be good because I AM INTRIGUED!!!
ㅤ ○ started ┆05-July-2026┆
ㅤ ㅤ ⤿ i really hope this series continues to be good because I AM INTRIGUED!!!
Did Not Finish
July 12, 2026DNF @ 40%
I was genuinely hoping to love this series as much as everyone else, so I'm a little bummed! I was having a difficult time connecting with the characters and staying invested in their individual storylines. I'm usually a fan of multiple POVs, but here it felt like there was one too many, making the plot feel slow and less cohesive.
I also found some of the dialogue sequences a bit too long. I think they could have been shortened without sacrificing the story's plot or emotional impact. There's a chance I might come back to this book one day, but as of now, I have far too many books on my TBR to prioritize lol.
I was genuinely hoping to love this series as much as everyone else, so I'm a little bummed! I was having a difficult time connecting with the characters and staying invested in their individual storylines. I'm usually a fan of multiple POVs, but here it felt like there was one too many, making the plot feel slow and less cohesive.
I also found some of the dialogue sequences a bit too long. I think they could have been shortened without sacrificing the story's plot or emotional impact. There's a chance I might come back to this book one day, but as of now, I have far too many books on my TBR to prioritize lol.
June 24, 2026
6 stars, omg.
rarely a series can pull off being dark, a fast paced read, and also heartfelt. somehow, this one pulls off all of it!
the characters in this series are so layered and COMPLICATED. the way all of them are morally grey but still lovable, i don’t know how hazel does it!
the main love story has me in agony like 80% of the time, and it’s not bc of them, it’s because of their circumstances and how they’re handled by outside parties. i love them so much.
gray, marcella, and kiran are some of my favs- and i loved getting to know Rhea and Finlay. i was so pleasantly surprised by how much i loved all of them.
i want to cry after that ending- definitely talking about this book in therapy.
rarely a series can pull off being dark, a fast paced read, and also heartfelt. somehow, this one pulls off all of it!
the characters in this series are so layered and COMPLICATED. the way all of them are morally grey but still lovable, i don’t know how hazel does it!
the main love story has me in agony like 80% of the time, and it’s not bc of them, it’s because of their circumstances and how they’re handled by outside parties. i love them so much.
gray, marcella, and kiran are some of my favs- and i loved getting to know Rhea and Finlay. i was so pleasantly surprised by how much i loved all of them.
i want to cry after that ending- definitely talking about this book in therapy.
June 20, 2026
4.5⭐️
WOW! Everything expands so much in this book- the world, the plot, the characters, the relationships, everything! My brain feels like it could explode with all of the new information I got from this book AND THE END! This felt like an epic ending, it’s hard to believe this is Hazel s Wilkes debut series! Everything is in chaos and I wish I could just jump into the next book!
I loved how character driven this book was because I think it will really set up the next book to be amazing! I’ve fallen in love with everyone and I’m so invested in each POV. It felt a little much at first with all the different POVs but it got better as the book went on and by the end I loved getting each one. Now DRAVEN! My sweet baby, I loved him so much and he needs to be protected at all costs. I can’t even put into words how I feel about what happens at the end, but I’m kind of liking it lol. Him and Lyra’s relationship has felt so intentional in its built up, and it’s made me feel so deeply. They truly see another for all they are all love each other because of it. I could cry at the way Draven loves Lyra. He deserves a happy ending and he better get it!
I’m also dying at the side characters love stories too! Rhea was an amazing addition! I need more Kiran in the next book because I need to know more…. And for casimir, at first imagined him to be like 45/50 but to my surprises he’s 27?! I think it’s a testament to hazels writing that he does read really mature (which he should iykyk lol). I don’t know what the deal is with Lyra and him but I’ll be upset if they don’t just end up friends. You can’t write an epic love story between Draven and Lyra and then throw in another love interest like that. I don’t think it’ll go that way because I will riot if it does.
Overall, this book completely elevated the series. It went from just a regular romantasy to an epic plot driven one! I can’t wait to see what’s to come! Also reading book 1.5 before this felt essential to me. Everything clicks better so I wouldn’t skip it even thought it’s a prequel
——
“I learned the tradeoff to accepting love is accepting pain, and I will feel any pain to have your love.”
“The world is more beautiful to me when it’s painted in lilac.”
WOW! Everything expands so much in this book- the world, the plot, the characters, the relationships, everything! My brain feels like it could explode with all of the new information I got from this book AND THE END! This felt like an epic ending, it’s hard to believe this is Hazel s Wilkes debut series! Everything is in chaos and I wish I could just jump into the next book!
I loved how character driven this book was because I think it will really set up the next book to be amazing! I’ve fallen in love with everyone and I’m so invested in each POV. It felt a little much at first with all the different POVs but it got better as the book went on and by the end I loved getting each one. Now DRAVEN! My sweet baby, I loved him so much and he needs to be protected at all costs. I can’t even put into words how I feel about what happens at the end, but I’m kind of liking it lol. Him and Lyra’s relationship has felt so intentional in its built up, and it’s made me feel so deeply. They truly see another for all they are all love each other because of it. I could cry at the way Draven loves Lyra. He deserves a happy ending and he better get it!
I’m also dying at the side characters love stories too! Rhea was an amazing addition! I need more Kiran in the next book because I need to know more…. And for casimir, at first imagined him to be like 45/50 but to my surprises he’s 27?! I think it’s a testament to hazels writing that he does read really mature (which he should iykyk lol). I don’t know what the deal is with Lyra and him but I’ll be upset if they don’t just end up friends. You can’t write an epic love story between Draven and Lyra and then throw in another love interest like that. I don’t think it’ll go that way because I will riot if it does.
Overall, this book completely elevated the series. It went from just a regular romantasy to an epic plot driven one! I can’t wait to see what’s to come! Also reading book 1.5 before this felt essential to me. Everything clicks better so I wouldn’t skip it even thought it’s a prequel
——
“I learned the tradeoff to accepting love is accepting pain, and I will feel any pain to have your love.”
“The world is more beautiful to me when it’s painted in lilac.”
June 7, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
A massive thank you to The Nerd Fam and Hazel S. Wilkes for this ARC copy, will I absolutely be buying a trophy copy of this book, yes!!
This has absolutely everything I good romantasy needs 🥹 and my heart being torn out, chewed up and spit back out in the process💔
Hazel’s writing was so beautiful and I feel I fell back into this magical world this ease going into this, although the first 60% of this book is slightly slower than book 1, I found that was really important as I managed to build relationships with the side characters through multiple POVs which I didn’t get a chance to in book 1☺️
When I stay a complex villain in this🤯 every chapter that included them my mind just didn’t know what to think so another praise to author for making me feel every emotion🫣
I am now SAT on the edge of my seat for the next book in this series and Hazel will definitely be an auto-buy author for me going forwards!!!💕
A massive thank you to The Nerd Fam and Hazel S. Wilkes for this ARC copy, will I absolutely be buying a trophy copy of this book, yes!!
This has absolutely everything I good romantasy needs 🥹 and my heart being torn out, chewed up and spit back out in the process💔
Hazel’s writing was so beautiful and I feel I fell back into this magical world this ease going into this, although the first 60% of this book is slightly slower than book 1, I found that was really important as I managed to build relationships with the side characters through multiple POVs which I didn’t get a chance to in book 1☺️
When I stay a complex villain in this🤯 every chapter that included them my mind just didn’t know what to think so another praise to author for making me feel every emotion🫣
I am now SAT on the edge of my seat for the next book in this series and Hazel will definitely be an auto-buy author for me going forwards!!!💕
May 16, 2026
Thank you to The NerdFam and Hazel S. Wilkes for this eARC!
Like book 1 and 1.5 - absolutely beautiful. I was so excited to be back with my favorite characters and see how this story continues. This book was mainly character driven, but I absolutely adore all of them so it felt like coming home.
(Okay except one of them but…)
This book was mostly stress, sadness, and rage but in the best way possible. I’ve never felt so mad or conflicted about characters before. Sympathy for the actual villain? A villain as bad as Lionel Acrux? Oof. And all of the POVs? Absolutely loved - I have been all for this found family from day one and now this? Yes. Please.
Oh, Lyra and Draven. Our sweet babies deserve happiness. When rocks fly. Oh, and chapter 18. That lives in my head rent free. Beautiful and devastating. They have both been through so much and have grown so much, especially Lyra throughout this book.
I will say the last 25% went a direction I was not expecting. Maybe even felt a little out of left field in a way. But as abrupt as it was, it sets up the next book perfectly. Even if it did hurt my heart - a lot. And that epilogue? Never thought that would be who I was screaming for to help but alas, book 3 will be a fun time to be had by all with whatever pieces of our hearts are still left in tact.
Like book 1 and 1.5 - absolutely beautiful. I was so excited to be back with my favorite characters and see how this story continues. This book was mainly character driven, but I absolutely adore all of them so it felt like coming home.
(Okay except one of them but…)
This book was mostly stress, sadness, and rage but in the best way possible. I’ve never felt so mad or conflicted about characters before. Sympathy for the actual villain? A villain as bad as Lionel Acrux? Oof. And all of the POVs? Absolutely loved - I have been all for this found family from day one and now this? Yes. Please.
Oh, Lyra and Draven. Our sweet babies deserve happiness. When rocks fly. Oh, and chapter 18. That lives in my head rent free. Beautiful and devastating. They have both been through so much and have grown so much, especially Lyra throughout this book.
I will say the last 25% went a direction I was not expecting. Maybe even felt a little out of left field in a way. But as abrupt as it was, it sets up the next book perfectly. Even if it did hurt my heart - a lot. And that epilogue? Never thought that would be who I was screaming for to help but alas, book 3 will be a fun time to be had by all with whatever pieces of our hearts are still left in tact.
June 22, 2026
Hmmmm.
Ballad for the Broken is a couple of steps away from the glorious 5* rating I gave to the first book. Hazel Wilkes makes some bold choices in this installment, we have separated love interests (my least favourite troupe), and the introduction of multiple new POVs. I always think this is a mistake, it alters the feel of the story readers fell in love with during the first book.
The multi POVs are managed well however and written nicely. I think she builds characters well and the relationships between some of the characters are engaging. World building is also good and the magic system remains vivid and well explained. At points in the book however I found myself wading through pages of overly heavy characterisation of various self help buzzwords and modern psychological terminology. Clunky.
And there are pacing problems, lots of them. The entire core focus romance of the first book shifts with the separation of the two main characters and Hazel Wilkes relies on the newer POVs to build new romance. This is sporadic and doesn't create the same dynamic. There are huge chunks of the book that are missing our main characters. It's a very long book to have suffered from so many pacing problems. I do wonder if a healthy edit might have helped. At times I felt quite bored and contemplated DNA on more than one occasion. It's taken me ages to read and I've had to really try hard to finish it.
The ending spiraled out of all control and before you know it I was dragged into the ridiculous 'lets cram everything we can into the final' territory and while we are at it, let's throw in some random trials/games.
I'm also getting quite tired of this formula that seems to be everywhere in the Romantasy sphere. Book 1 - lovely budding romance . Book 2 - separate the lovers and try to create new story arcs. End of book 2 turn MMC evil.... Where have I seen this before? Answer - everywhere.
This book has good reviews, so far the reviews are heavily ARC led. I'll be interested to see how the reviews fare over more time..overall it's not a bad book, but it's not a great one either. My thoughts, for what they are worth, is to cut out the length and focus more on the pacing and the quality of each chapter. I really do think Hazel's pacing needs work before the last book is released.
Ballad for the Broken is a couple of steps away from the glorious 5* rating I gave to the first book. Hazel Wilkes makes some bold choices in this installment, we have separated love interests (my least favourite troupe), and the introduction of multiple new POVs. I always think this is a mistake, it alters the feel of the story readers fell in love with during the first book.
The multi POVs are managed well however and written nicely. I think she builds characters well and the relationships between some of the characters are engaging. World building is also good and the magic system remains vivid and well explained. At points in the book however I found myself wading through pages of overly heavy characterisation of various self help buzzwords and modern psychological terminology. Clunky.
And there are pacing problems, lots of them. The entire core focus romance of the first book shifts with the separation of the two main characters and Hazel Wilkes relies on the newer POVs to build new romance. This is sporadic and doesn't create the same dynamic. There are huge chunks of the book that are missing our main characters. It's a very long book to have suffered from so many pacing problems. I do wonder if a healthy edit might have helped. At times I felt quite bored and contemplated DNA on more than one occasion. It's taken me ages to read and I've had to really try hard to finish it.
The ending spiraled out of all control and before you know it I was dragged into the ridiculous 'lets cram everything we can into the final' territory and while we are at it, let's throw in some random trials/games.
I'm also getting quite tired of this formula that seems to be everywhere in the Romantasy sphere. Book 1 - lovely budding romance . Book 2 - separate the lovers and try to create new story arcs. End of book 2 turn MMC evil.... Where have I seen this before? Answer - everywhere.
This book has good reviews, so far the reviews are heavily ARC led. I'll be interested to see how the reviews fare over more time..overall it's not a bad book, but it's not a great one either. My thoughts, for what they are worth, is to cut out the length and focus more on the pacing and the quality of each chapter. I really do think Hazel's pacing needs work before the last book is released.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2026
4.5⭐️ And the title says it all. Broken. I'm still crushed just thinking about the ending of this book! 💔 This book is pure emotional damage (in the way us romantasy lovers are fiends for).
"People have a way of surprising you when you offer them a chance to show you their deepest selves."
There is so much going on in this book. She's a thicc girl and you get a lot of new POV's, which initially took me a second to get in the rhythm of. But once it clicked, I was fully back in the three kingdoms of Solaya like I hadn't missed a beat!
If you're here you've read book one and if you haven't then circle back but run immediately to pick up book one, A Requiem for Fallen Stars. Trust me!
Everything expands in book two. From a Masquerade Ball, one bed, and hidden identities revealed to enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-again (and for more than one couple too!), a comet festival and then add in some deadly trials, Hazel delivers everything you could want in a second book and puts you through a lot of pain while doing it!
Literally every single character in this book is grappling with immense hardship and grief and has endured traumas and betrayals that have the potential to break them, or in some cases, already have. 😩
Audwin Fjolla and Tynan Dalmar are in line to take the podium for the title of evilest villains. How much hate I have in my heart for both of them is probably not healthy at this point! Like, are they related to Lional Acrux?
I love Lyra and Draven, they have to be end game! We love a man that'll quite literally (yes, literally) burn the world down for her and yearn like his life depends on it (and man, does he love hard)! The secret correspondence in chapter 18 🥹❤️
"And being with her... It's like waking up to a world of color after only seeing muted tones."
BUT Casimir, this emo sad boy has stolen my heart. Not only is he extremely powerful, (and yes, also a villain, or is he? 👀) he's mysterious, and regal and there's so much depth to him, yet we've barely scratched the surface. His immortal life is not a gift; it's a curse, and his tortured soul spoke to me. I'm praying we're going to get more of him in the next book!
"Monsters are seldom born, darling. They are forged in the pits of darkness. Their faces are sprung from the masks of vengeance, discovered in the rubbles of peace and sharpened by shadows."
Gray Nightenjoy "Lion of the Heart" was another one that really stole the show for me in this book.
And I can't not mention Finlay and Rhea! Where are the Dramione fans at? You are going to love the dynamic between them!
Found family is one of my all time favourite tropes and I really love the one that is in this series.
And well that ending 😭🤯! How are we supposed to survive until the next book!
Thank you Hazel S. Wilkes for the eARC. I'm counting down the days until the next installment in the series!
"People have a way of surprising you when you offer them a chance to show you their deepest selves."
There is so much going on in this book. She's a thicc girl and you get a lot of new POV's, which initially took me a second to get in the rhythm of. But once it clicked, I was fully back in the three kingdoms of Solaya like I hadn't missed a beat!
If you're here you've read book one and if you haven't then circle back but run immediately to pick up book one, A Requiem for Fallen Stars. Trust me!
Everything expands in book two. From a Masquerade Ball, one bed, and hidden identities revealed to enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-again (and for more than one couple too!), a comet festival and then add in some deadly trials, Hazel delivers everything you could want in a second book and puts you through a lot of pain while doing it!
Literally every single character in this book is grappling with immense hardship and grief and has endured traumas and betrayals that have the potential to break them, or in some cases, already have. 😩
Audwin Fjolla and Tynan Dalmar are in line to take the podium for the title of evilest villains. How much hate I have in my heart for both of them is probably not healthy at this point! Like, are they related to Lional Acrux?
I love Lyra and Draven, they have to be end game! We love a man that'll quite literally (yes, literally) burn the world down for her and yearn like his life depends on it (and man, does he love hard)! The secret correspondence in chapter 18 🥹❤️
"And being with her... It's like waking up to a world of color after only seeing muted tones."
BUT Casimir, this emo sad boy has stolen my heart. Not only is he extremely powerful, (and yes, also a villain, or is he? 👀) he's mysterious, and regal and there's so much depth to him, yet we've barely scratched the surface. His immortal life is not a gift; it's a curse, and his tortured soul spoke to me. I'm praying we're going to get more of him in the next book!
"Monsters are seldom born, darling. They are forged in the pits of darkness. Their faces are sprung from the masks of vengeance, discovered in the rubbles of peace and sharpened by shadows."
Gray Nightenjoy "Lion of the Heart" was another one that really stole the show for me in this book.
And I can't not mention Finlay and Rhea! Where are the Dramione fans at? You are going to love the dynamic between them!
Found family is one of my all time favourite tropes and I really love the one that is in this series.
And well that ending 😭🤯! How are we supposed to survive until the next book!
Thank you Hazel S. Wilkes for the eARC. I'm counting down the days until the next installment in the series!
June 3, 2026
ARC Review
5 stars. Hey, so this was traumatic! And I loved it. And it broke me. And I need the next book. This series is so beautiful so, so emotional.
I’ll post a longer review once my heart hurts a little less.
Thank you to Hazel S Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for the gifted book!
5 stars. Hey, so this was traumatic! And I loved it. And it broke me. And I need the next book. This series is so beautiful so, so emotional.
I’ll post a longer review once my heart hurts a little less.
Thank you to Hazel S Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for the gifted book!
June 9, 2026
broken…I was… wow. what an upgrade from book one, and that’s saying a lot because I absolutely LOVED requiem.
this sequel added so much depth and emotion to an already incredible story. as much as I adore the magic system and world-building in this series, the way hazel writes her characters is what truly sets these books apart. they feel so raw, real, and painfully human. their struggles, fears, and hopes resonate on a level that makes it impossible not to connect with them.
I love lyra and draven with my entire heart. these two have endured so much, and at this point I need them to get every ounce of peace, happiness, and healing they deserve beneath the stars. my heart is absolutely shattered for them, and I’m desperately rooting for their happy ending.
“I am not a good man, but you make me want to be a better one, lyra.”
the addition of more povs was one of my favorite parts of this book. every perspective felt necessary and added so much richness to the story. getting inside these characters’ heads and witnessing their internal battles: the constant tug-of-war between their hearts and minds, their struggles with morality, insecurities, grief, and regret, made every moment hit that much harder. the emotional depth in this book is genuinely powerful.
“but I think part of what makes a great person truly great is having strong morals and knowing when the right time is to bend them. it can be dangerous, building your house with nothing but black and white stones.”
this story broke me, healed me, and then broke me all over again.
now, if anyone needs me, I’ll be staring blankly at my wall until I can get my hands on the next book
ty nerdfam for the e-arc! 🤍
this sequel added so much depth and emotion to an already incredible story. as much as I adore the magic system and world-building in this series, the way hazel writes her characters is what truly sets these books apart. they feel so raw, real, and painfully human. their struggles, fears, and hopes resonate on a level that makes it impossible not to connect with them.
I love lyra and draven with my entire heart. these two have endured so much, and at this point I need them to get every ounce of peace, happiness, and healing they deserve beneath the stars. my heart is absolutely shattered for them, and I’m desperately rooting for their happy ending.
“I am not a good man, but you make me want to be a better one, lyra.”
the addition of more povs was one of my favorite parts of this book. every perspective felt necessary and added so much richness to the story. getting inside these characters’ heads and witnessing their internal battles: the constant tug-of-war between their hearts and minds, their struggles with morality, insecurities, grief, and regret, made every moment hit that much harder. the emotional depth in this book is genuinely powerful.
“but I think part of what makes a great person truly great is having strong morals and knowing when the right time is to bend them. it can be dangerous, building your house with nothing but black and white stones.”
this story broke me, healed me, and then broke me all over again.
now, if anyone needs me, I’ll be staring blankly at my wall until I can get my hands on the next book
ty nerdfam for the e-arc! 🤍
June 24, 2026
This book was definitely slower than her previous two books but not in a bad way. It just took a little longer for me to get fully invested. I enjoyed what I was reading the entire time but it wasn't until around that 60% mark that it really started to ramp up.
I really loved that this book shared the spotlight with so many of the amazing side characters. It felt like they were given the space to grow beyond simply supporting the FMC and MMC and I found myself becoming more invested in their journeys than I expected. I especially loved one specific relationship that is blossoming between our side characters (cough cough enemies2lovers)
I was getting a little nervous about where things seemed to be heading with Casimir.
The last 15% of this book had me staying up well past my bedtime so I could make sure I finished it all. It delivered all the emotion, excitement, and anticipation I had been hoping for and by the time I reached the end, I was left desperately wanting the next book in my hands immediately.
Thank you so very much to Hazel S. Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for providing me with an eARC! <3
I really loved that this book shared the spotlight with so many of the amazing side characters. It felt like they were given the space to grow beyond simply supporting the FMC and MMC and I found myself becoming more invested in their journeys than I expected. I especially loved one specific relationship that is blossoming between our side characters (cough cough enemies2lovers)
I was getting a little nervous about where things seemed to be heading with Casimir.
The last 15% of this book had me staying up well past my bedtime so I could make sure I finished it all. It delivered all the emotion, excitement, and anticipation I had been hoping for and by the time I reached the end, I was left desperately wanting the next book in my hands immediately.
Thank you so very much to Hazel S. Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for providing me with an eARC! <3
June 20, 2026
4.75 STARS!!!
This series has me kicking my feet and screaming into the void, but what truly wrecked me in this book was the found family and their character development. Every single character felt CRITICAL. Every relationship mattered. Every POV added something meaningful... I'm kind of obsessed with them all right now.
💫 Lyra - QUEEN, endlessly compassionate and stronger than she realizes, carrying hope into places where it has no business surviving.
❤️ Rhea - fiercely loyal, endlessly determined, and willing to burn down the world for the people she loves... get it girl
🖤 Draven - a force of nature, carrying more responsibility than anyone should have to bear. So strong and yet soft in the best ways
✨ Gray - the embodiment of kindness and integrity, somehow remaining gentle in a world that constantly asks him not to be. You broke me at the end....
🌙 Marcella - guarded and resilient, learning that vulnerability might be the bravest thing she can offer. Ride of die for those she cares about (I relate)
🔥 Kiran - sharp, calculating, and always three moves ahead, even when the game starts slipping out of his control. I am devastated at how you hide your trauma
❄️ Casimir - equal parts devastating and fascinating, a man carrying impossible burdens while slowly letting people close enough to see the real you... I'm torn on this one
📚 Finlay - curious, earnest, and quietly becoming far more important to this story... Also I hate that I want to punch you and hug you at the same time
These characters choose each other. Protect each other. Fight for each other. The friendships, loyalty, sacrifices, and support just had me in all my feelings...
the YEARNING in this book should honestly come with a warning label. The tension. The longing. The almosts. I SUFFERED right alongside these characters and loved every second of it...
This book is packed with stolen glances, emotional intimacy, impossible choices, protective instincts, and aching romantic tension...
There were multiple moments where characters were inches away from giving me exactly what I wanted and then immediately ripped it away.
Rude.
Perfect.
10/10.
Tropes:
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Touch Her and Die
- Forced Proximity
- Protective MMCs
- Political Intrigue
- Multiple POVs
- Magic Academy
- High Fantasy
- Emotional Damage (the best kind)
- Loyalty & Sacrifice
- Who Did This To You?
- Powerful Magic System
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (still more tension than spice)
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Found Family: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Worldbuilding: 🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍
Emotional Damage: 💀💀💀💀💀
This series continues to be one of my favorite romantasy discoveries of the year. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next book because I am emotionally attached to this entire cast and need them all to be okay.
And thanks to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest and obsessive review.
This series has me kicking my feet and screaming into the void, but what truly wrecked me in this book was the found family and their character development. Every single character felt CRITICAL. Every relationship mattered. Every POV added something meaningful... I'm kind of obsessed with them all right now.
💫 Lyra - QUEEN, endlessly compassionate and stronger than she realizes, carrying hope into places where it has no business surviving.
❤️ Rhea - fiercely loyal, endlessly determined, and willing to burn down the world for the people she loves... get it girl
🖤 Draven - a force of nature, carrying more responsibility than anyone should have to bear. So strong and yet soft in the best ways
✨ Gray - the embodiment of kindness and integrity, somehow remaining gentle in a world that constantly asks him not to be. You broke me at the end....
🌙 Marcella - guarded and resilient, learning that vulnerability might be the bravest thing she can offer. Ride of die for those she cares about (I relate)
🔥 Kiran - sharp, calculating, and always three moves ahead, even when the game starts slipping out of his control. I am devastated at how you hide your trauma
❄️ Casimir - equal parts devastating and fascinating, a man carrying impossible burdens while slowly letting people close enough to see the real you... I'm torn on this one
📚 Finlay - curious, earnest, and quietly becoming far more important to this story... Also I hate that I want to punch you and hug you at the same time
These characters choose each other. Protect each other. Fight for each other. The friendships, loyalty, sacrifices, and support just had me in all my feelings...
the YEARNING in this book should honestly come with a warning label. The tension. The longing. The almosts. I SUFFERED right alongside these characters and loved every second of it...
This book is packed with stolen glances, emotional intimacy, impossible choices, protective instincts, and aching romantic tension...
There were multiple moments where characters were inches away from giving me exactly what I wanted and then immediately ripped it away.
Rude.
Perfect.
10/10.
Tropes:
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Touch Her and Die
- Forced Proximity
- Protective MMCs
- Political Intrigue
- Multiple POVs
- Magic Academy
- High Fantasy
- Emotional Damage (the best kind)
- Loyalty & Sacrifice
- Who Did This To You?
- Powerful Magic System
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (still more tension than spice)
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Found Family: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Worldbuilding: 🌍🌍🌍🌍🌍
Emotional Damage: 💀💀💀💀💀
This series continues to be one of my favorite romantasy discoveries of the year. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next book because I am emotionally attached to this entire cast and need them all to be okay.
And thanks to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest and obsessive review.
June 14, 2026
4.5⭐️
this book was absolutely amazing!!! at first experiencing all of the povs was overwhelming.. it took me a while to actually get into the book bc of it.. and tbh i don’t think we needed ALLLLL of the POVs BUT im very glad we had them bc it added so much depth to the story and i THRIVED on rhea and finleys POVs 😍 this is the enemies to lovers what we NEEDED!!!!
i also loved cassimir, i really hope we get to hear more from him in the third book!!! i love him and lyra and was honestly shipping them for a hot minute 💅🏽💅🏽
but lyra and draven have truly been though so many obstacles… and i love how the writer keep creating barriers that prevent them from being together fully! that is what makes a story interesting and honestly makes me want to keep reading (ofc the fantasy plot itself was also stellar) but the relationship development plays a huge role as well.. and i just think this series is very well done!!
i would def recommend to read the novella first, otherwise you wont understand a lot of references here in this book.
but overall, had a GREAT time, would absolutely recommend
this book was absolutely amazing!!! at first experiencing all of the povs was overwhelming.. it took me a while to actually get into the book bc of it.. and tbh i don’t think we needed ALLLLL of the POVs BUT im very glad we had them bc it added so much depth to the story and i THRIVED on rhea and finleys POVs 😍 this is the enemies to lovers what we NEEDED!!!!
i also loved cassimir, i really hope we get to hear more from him in the third book!!! i love him and lyra and was honestly shipping them for a hot minute 💅🏽💅🏽
but lyra and draven have truly been though so many obstacles… and i love how the writer keep creating barriers that prevent them from being together fully! that is what makes a story interesting and honestly makes me want to keep reading (ofc the fantasy plot itself was also stellar) but the relationship development plays a huge role as well.. and i just think this series is very well done!!
i would def recommend to read the novella first, otherwise you wont understand a lot of references here in this book.
but overall, had a GREAT time, would absolutely recommend
May 18, 2026
✨ARC Review✨ (Thank you NerdFam for this ARC)
No "clicks their tongue" or "click my tongue" in this book! Immediate win for me!
I enjoyed "A Requiem for Fallen Stars" I just didn't enjoy that repeated phrase up above, nor how fast the relationship goes from 0-100.
I adored "A Composition of Scars" and cried and fell in love with the story and Draven.
"A Ballad for the Broken" I felt settled into the groove and was a very enjoyable read. Normally multi-pov books can be hit or miss, sometimes it can become the weakness for the book, but I feel like this was the strength of this book. I loved getting into everyone's heads and everyone's growth and progression in the story.
The NEW ROMANCES... yes. Give me all of them! I am so excited to see what happens with F + R and G + M... I cannot wait!
I think the ending will be something people will either love or hate, as it is a trope that can be hated if done badly, or loved if done correctly, and I have hope that it will all work out and be done well.
I really loved Casimir as well in this book, he is a complex character and you feel for him while also being concerned. I was conflicted A LOT in this book and that is what made it great.
I can't wait to see how this story wraps up, I am excited to cry, because I think it will be bittersweet. Just don't touch any of the precious characters I love okay?
No "clicks their tongue" or "click my tongue" in this book! Immediate win for me!
I enjoyed "A Requiem for Fallen Stars" I just didn't enjoy that repeated phrase up above, nor how fast the relationship goes from 0-100.
I adored "A Composition of Scars" and cried and fell in love with the story and Draven.
"A Ballad for the Broken" I felt settled into the groove and was a very enjoyable read. Normally multi-pov books can be hit or miss, sometimes it can become the weakness for the book, but I feel like this was the strength of this book. I loved getting into everyone's heads and everyone's growth and progression in the story.
The NEW ROMANCES... yes. Give me all of them! I am so excited to see what happens with F + R and G + M... I cannot wait!
I think the ending will be something people will either love or hate, as it is a trope that can be hated if done badly, or loved if done correctly, and I have hope that it will all work out and be done well.
I really loved Casimir as well in this book, he is a complex character and you feel for him while also being concerned. I was conflicted A LOT in this book and that is what made it great.
I can't wait to see how this story wraps up, I am excited to cry, because I think it will be bittersweet. Just don't touch any of the precious characters I love okay?
June 12, 2026
And Hazel S. Wilkes does it again! I’m literally speechless with this book, it’s that incredible. The threads she wove together through this series so far and where she set us up to go leaves me desperate for more.
Lyra and Draven remain one of my favorite book couples, but the rest of the characters in this book (including Casimir) are just as good. I haven’t loved a full cast of characters like this since reading Throne of Glass.
This world has my heart and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Lyra and Draven remain one of my favorite book couples, but the rest of the characters in this book (including Casimir) are just as good. I haven’t loved a full cast of characters like this since reading Throne of Glass.
This world has my heart and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
July 1, 2026
5/5🌟 this broke me. I’m still processing honestly. God tier series. Some of my favorite characters of all time. No notes please read these books
May 21, 2026
I received this as an ARC, and I want to sincerely thank Hazel S. Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read this early.
I went into A Ballad for the Broken thinking I understood what heartbreak in this series looked like. I thought the ending of A Composition of Scars was devastating.
I was wrong.
Nothing, and I mean nothing, could have mentally prepared me for the emotional warfare that is the final ten percent of this book. It did not just hurt. It unraveled me.
This story feels like standing in the aftermath of something burning, watching the smoke curl upward while trying to remember what it looked like before. Every page is threaded with tension, grief, hope, and something sharp and unrelenting beneath it all.
I will admit, I usually struggle with sequels that expand into multiple POVs. It can feel disjointed, like the emotional thread gets pulled too thin.
But this book nailed it.
Every perspective added weight. Depth. Meaning.
Finlay’s chapters, in particular, hit hard. Getting inside his head, watching him wrestle with the crushing weight of his father’s expectations while trying to stay loyal to the people he loves, was quietly devastating. And him and Rhea… there is something so achingly human about them. Two people starved for affection and acceptance, recognizing that same emptiness in each other, yet never quite able to bridge the gap. It is the kind of dynamic that does not just hurt, it lingers.
And then there is Lyra and Draven.
I do not even know where to begin without feeling that tightness in my chest all over again.
Draven’s relentless determination to find Lyra, to protect her at all costs, to choose her again and again without hesitation, it is the kind of devotion that feels almost sacred. And Lyra… the way she is finally seen, truly accepted for everything she is, everything she has never been allowed to be before, it mirrors what she once gave Draven before she even knew who he was.
There is a symmetry there that feels powerful. Unbreakable.
When rocks fly… that is all I will say. If you know, you know.
This book is soaked in moral conflict, choices that do not have clean answers, loyalties that fracture and reform, bonds that break only to be stitched back together with something stronger, something more painful.
It is messy. It is raw. It is unforgettable.
And I already know I will never fully recover from it.
I went into A Ballad for the Broken thinking I understood what heartbreak in this series looked like. I thought the ending of A Composition of Scars was devastating.
I was wrong.
Nothing, and I mean nothing, could have mentally prepared me for the emotional warfare that is the final ten percent of this book. It did not just hurt. It unraveled me.
This story feels like standing in the aftermath of something burning, watching the smoke curl upward while trying to remember what it looked like before. Every page is threaded with tension, grief, hope, and something sharp and unrelenting beneath it all.
I will admit, I usually struggle with sequels that expand into multiple POVs. It can feel disjointed, like the emotional thread gets pulled too thin.
But this book nailed it.
Every perspective added weight. Depth. Meaning.
Finlay’s chapters, in particular, hit hard. Getting inside his head, watching him wrestle with the crushing weight of his father’s expectations while trying to stay loyal to the people he loves, was quietly devastating. And him and Rhea… there is something so achingly human about them. Two people starved for affection and acceptance, recognizing that same emptiness in each other, yet never quite able to bridge the gap. It is the kind of dynamic that does not just hurt, it lingers.
And then there is Lyra and Draven.
I do not even know where to begin without feeling that tightness in my chest all over again.
Draven’s relentless determination to find Lyra, to protect her at all costs, to choose her again and again without hesitation, it is the kind of devotion that feels almost sacred. And Lyra… the way she is finally seen, truly accepted for everything she is, everything she has never been allowed to be before, it mirrors what she once gave Draven before she even knew who he was.
There is a symmetry there that feels powerful. Unbreakable.
When rocks fly… that is all I will say. If you know, you know.
This book is soaked in moral conflict, choices that do not have clean answers, loyalties that fracture and reform, bonds that break only to be stitched back together with something stronger, something more painful.
It is messy. It is raw. It is unforgettable.
And I already know I will never fully recover from it.
July 6, 2026
This series has it ALL - an incredible cast of characters. Plot and magic that has depth and keeps you guessing the entire time. A love story full of yearning and delicious agony. THIS IS IT YALL!!
I loved this sequel in that the story changed from one POV to several, rounding out the cast and allowing more depth with them, along with seeing the story unfold from multiple angles. The breadcrumbs that Hazel sets up are sprinkled throughout and unfold in amazing ways!
Lyra is a soul character through and through. She is hardened from loss but has started to open up her heart, feeling a wide array of emotions and realizing that it is okay to do so.
Draven aka the most down bad yearner of 2026 - he is so powerful and yet will throw it all away for her. I adore him so freaking much!
Gray is the biggest green flag man I’ve ever met and I want him to remain so forever ❤️
I could go on and on about all the characters, but let’s just say that this story is like Game of Thrones meets Spark of the Everflame. From multiple kingdoms and warring nobility and those in need, from corrupted magic to prophecies, you are never left wanting. It may seem daunting, but it is developed in such a natural way for the reader to digest!
This series will be staying with me for a long time. I am GAGGED with this cliffhanger ending until we get the next book!!!
I loved this sequel in that the story changed from one POV to several, rounding out the cast and allowing more depth with them, along with seeing the story unfold from multiple angles. The breadcrumbs that Hazel sets up are sprinkled throughout and unfold in amazing ways!
Lyra is a soul character through and through. She is hardened from loss but has started to open up her heart, feeling a wide array of emotions and realizing that it is okay to do so.
Draven aka the most down bad yearner of 2026 - he is so powerful and yet will throw it all away for her. I adore him so freaking much!
Gray is the biggest green flag man I’ve ever met and I want him to remain so forever ❤️
I could go on and on about all the characters, but let’s just say that this story is like Game of Thrones meets Spark of the Everflame. From multiple kingdoms and warring nobility and those in need, from corrupted magic to prophecies, you are never left wanting. It may seem daunting, but it is developed in such a natural way for the reader to digest!
This series will be staying with me for a long time. I am GAGGED with this cliffhanger ending until we get the next book!!!
June 10, 2026
Thank you to TheNerdFam and the author for the eARC of this book. This series is one of my absolute favorites to talk about and to recommend, I was so excited to read book 2!
There is a novella - book 1.5 - A Composition of Scars that I do think is needed to read this one, it will help with the added POVs that come into play in this book!
This does pick right up from the end of book 1 - but the story slows down a lot as we are now exploring new character POVs and all the grief that they all hold from the attack in book 1. I definitely enjoyed getting these POVs but I do think the first half of the book suffered from pacing because of the 4 added POVs that were put in.
The second half of the book - non stop - we got expanded world building, more emotional devastation, and so many secrets and betrayals that were exposed.
The world politics really do play bigger part in this book. Everyone has their morals tested each step of the way and you can’t go back on it!
Loved the ending and already need book 3!
There is a novella - book 1.5 - A Composition of Scars that I do think is needed to read this one, it will help with the added POVs that come into play in this book!
This does pick right up from the end of book 1 - but the story slows down a lot as we are now exploring new character POVs and all the grief that they all hold from the attack in book 1. I definitely enjoyed getting these POVs but I do think the first half of the book suffered from pacing because of the 4 added POVs that were put in.
The second half of the book - non stop - we got expanded world building, more emotional devastation, and so many secrets and betrayals that were exposed.
The world politics really do play bigger part in this book. Everyone has their morals tested each step of the way and you can’t go back on it!
Loved the ending and already need book 3!
July 7, 2026
4.75⭐️
- EMOTIONALLY DEVASTATING
- A rare book where the romance and the social commentary are woven together seamlessly
- The book poses quite a lot of moral questions and dilemmas
- I love the title and how it encompasses literally everyone in this story
- So many painful deals and bargains, this book is emotionally draining
- I usually find it exhausting to have too many POVs, but having only Lyra’s in 1st person and the rest in 3rd, it’s quite alright, and they fit together very well
- Casimir loving fashion is such a cute touch
- I so hope we get a redemption arc for Finlay, it would be horrible for him to be a rat AGAIN
- The third part, The Broken, is heart wrenching, I wanted to sob like a child by the end
- EMOTIONALLY DEVASTATING
- A rare book where the romance and the social commentary are woven together seamlessly
- The book poses quite a lot of moral questions and dilemmas
- I love the title and how it encompasses literally everyone in this story
- So many painful deals and bargains, this book is emotionally draining
- I usually find it exhausting to have too many POVs, but having only Lyra’s in 1st person and the rest in 3rd, it’s quite alright, and they fit together very well
- Casimir loving fashion is such a cute touch
- I so hope we get a redemption arc for Finlay, it would be horrible for him to be a rat AGAIN
- The third part, The Broken, is heart wrenching, I wanted to sob like a child by the end
June 9, 2026
This book !!!
It picked up right where book one left off z
She is a thicc girl of a book but worth all the time spent.
Draven is still just as broody and sexy as before 🤭
I loved the touch of body dysmorphia that was also talked about , this is a subject that might be sensitive for some but it was extremely relatable for me.
The drama and suspense at every turn of the pages …. When can I get book three ?
It picked up right where book one left off z
She is a thicc girl of a book but worth all the time spent.
Draven is still just as broody and sexy as before 🤭
I loved the touch of body dysmorphia that was also talked about , this is a subject that might be sensitive for some but it was extremely relatable for me.
The drama and suspense at every turn of the pages …. When can I get book three ?
July 8, 2026
I didn’t love it but it was good enough. Some very predictable plots and not so predictable. I definitely thought this was the final book so I’m fucking pissed I have to wait another year or whatever The fuck. I hate when there’s no recap. I couldn’t remember shit about fuck. I still don’t remember enough. This is why I try to avoid starting new/unfinished series. I’ll be finishing the series but I’m not thrilled about it…🙄😆
June 25, 2026
6 ⭐️ just like the first book, and honestly, the novella as well. this book was so fast-paced, yet i also felt like i was holding onto all of the details necessary to understand the plot. there was so much yearning and sorrow, but also love and friendship. i have not felt this way about characters in a series since i read throne of glass and that is really saying something. i just know i’m going to end up rereading before the next book releases.
July 6, 2026
This book took me FOREVER to read because of how busy I was. So this was definitely slower to get into, I can’t tell if it was because of my own life or just that it started slow. But let me tell you, the last 75 pages were extremely stressful 😥
June 15, 2026
This series isn’t just getting better—it’s becoming unforgettable.
6/5⭐️, 3🌶️
Hazel S. Wilkes, what do you have against my emotional well-being?!
This series has all the makings of the next big romantasy obsession, and with every book, it somehow gets better. A Ballad for the Broken completely consumed me from beginning to end. The magic, the heartbreak, the tension, the characters—everything was elevated to another level.
What makes this series truly special isn’t just the FMC and MMC (who own a permanent place in my heart), but the fact that Hazel makes you fall HARD for every single side character too. Every friendship, every alliance, every heartbreaking moment feels important. The world feels alive because the characters feel real.
And if you thought book one was incredible, just wait until you read A Composition of Scars and then dive into A Ballad for the Broken. Each installment builds beautifully on the last, raising the stakes, deepening the emotional connections, and leaving you even more invested.
That ending? Absolutely criminal. I am scarred, ruined, emotionally compromised, and drowning in questions. Hazel left me staring at the final page wondering how I’m supposed to function while waiting for book three.
This series isn’t just getting better—it’s becoming unforgettable.
6/5⭐️, 3🌶️
Hazel S. Wilkes, what do you have against my emotional well-being?!
This series has all the makings of the next big romantasy obsession, and with every book, it somehow gets better. A Ballad for the Broken completely consumed me from beginning to end. The magic, the heartbreak, the tension, the characters—everything was elevated to another level.
What makes this series truly special isn’t just the FMC and MMC (who own a permanent place in my heart), but the fact that Hazel makes you fall HARD for every single side character too. Every friendship, every alliance, every heartbreaking moment feels important. The world feels alive because the characters feel real.
And if you thought book one was incredible, just wait until you read A Composition of Scars and then dive into A Ballad for the Broken. Each installment builds beautifully on the last, raising the stakes, deepening the emotional connections, and leaving you even more invested.
That ending? Absolutely criminal. I am scarred, ruined, emotionally compromised, and drowning in questions. Hazel left me staring at the final page wondering how I’m supposed to function while waiting for book three.
This series isn’t just getting better—it’s becoming unforgettable.
May 28, 2026
I took my time with this one which is rare for me, because I usually fly through books like this.
But what is there to say? Hazel S Wilkes has done it again.
The world expands in all the right ways: multiple POVs, deeper political intrigue, and richer character motivations on both sides of the line. The romance hits harder, the stakes feel heavier, and Draven? Still delivering the most delicious lines.
And that ending? Devastating.
I don’t know how Hazel keeps doing it, but I will gladly keep showing up just to have my heart ripped straight out of my chest by this cast of characters.
Infinity stars.
But what is there to say? Hazel S Wilkes has done it again.
The world expands in all the right ways: multiple POVs, deeper political intrigue, and richer character motivations on both sides of the line. The romance hits harder, the stakes feel heavier, and Draven? Still delivering the most delicious lines.
And that ending? Devastating.
I don’t know how Hazel keeps doing it, but I will gladly keep showing up just to have my heart ripped straight out of my chest by this cast of characters.
Infinity stars.
June 10, 2026
this was a lot…
I loved everyone’s POVs
- especially Casimir :’)
gray😭 just tell marcella you like her why are you trying to be so noble
I liked getting to know Rhea but girl i will never trust Finlay…
KIRAN😭 i knew something was up with u
didn’t need all the Lyra & Draven smut scenes i enjoyed it better when she was with casimir sry not sry …
I loved everyone’s POVs
- especially Casimir :’)
gray😭 just tell marcella you like her why are you trying to be so noble
I liked getting to know Rhea but girl i will never trust Finlay…
KIRAN😭 i knew something was up with u
didn’t need all the Lyra & Draven smut scenes i enjoyed it better when she was with casimir sry not sry …
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Once again, Ms. Wilkes has thoroughly impressed me, and I am SO happy to report that "A Ballad for the Broken" is one of the very few fantasy sequels that DOESN'T suffer from second-book syndrome. I might even go so far as to say that I enjoyed this even more than the first one???
There are so many unique elements to this that are woven together to create an immersive and emotional story. To start, this series has one of my favorite found families that I have EVER read. I truly love each and every character, not only despite their flaws but also because of them. Each character feels unique, complex, and layered in a way that adds such depth to both the story and the world around them.
Because I love the characters so much, I was so pleasantly surprised by just how much I enjoyed the additional POVs. &, although I do adore Lyra (she's quite literally one of my favorite fmcs EVER), I think that the addition of more POVs was absolutely needed. It definitely helped me to become more emotionally invested... which, as it turns out, was both a blessing and a curse! It also felt so incredibly rewarding to have read the novella beforehand, since it not only set the foundation for this book but completely reshaped the way I viewed book one and its characters (this is where I bonk you on the head and say I, too, was unsure about having to read a novella between book one and two, but it is ABSOLUTELY necessary).
As much as I did LOVE this, I will admit it started out somewhat painfully slow for me. However, once I hit the 50% mark? I was IN. This book is hefty, sitting at almost 800 pages (at least for my eARC), but I don't think that I would change a thing, honestly. Hazel's writing is lyrical, and she carefully sets up the latter half of the plot in a way that made the page count feel completely worth it.
The world-building is phenomenal and probably my favorite aspect of this series as a whole. The world feels rich, immersive, and so well-thought-out. I'm absolutely kicking myself for not picking this series up sooner (please tell me how I left this on my TBR for SO long???)! This story is not predictable in the SLIGHTEST, and the ending shook me to my core... again! Ms. Wilkes seems to have made this a habit of hers, as I genuinely believe I spent half this book with a hand over my mouth and my jaw agape. This series continues to absolutely exceed my expectations at every turn, and I'm already desperate for the next book.
& a huge thank you to Hazel S. Wilkes and The NerdFam for gifting me an eArc of "A Ballad for the Broken" in exchange for my honest review. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity.
There are so many unique elements to this that are woven together to create an immersive and emotional story. To start, this series has one of my favorite found families that I have EVER read. I truly love each and every character, not only despite their flaws but also because of them. Each character feels unique, complex, and layered in a way that adds such depth to both the story and the world around them.
Because I love the characters so much, I was so pleasantly surprised by just how much I enjoyed the additional POVs. &, although I do adore Lyra (she's quite literally one of my favorite fmcs EVER), I think that the addition of more POVs was absolutely needed. It definitely helped me to become more emotionally invested... which, as it turns out, was both a blessing and a curse! It also felt so incredibly rewarding to have read the novella beforehand, since it not only set the foundation for this book but completely reshaped the way I viewed book one and its characters (this is where I bonk you on the head and say I, too, was unsure about having to read a novella between book one and two, but it is ABSOLUTELY necessary).
As much as I did LOVE this, I will admit it started out somewhat painfully slow for me. However, once I hit the 50% mark? I was IN. This book is hefty, sitting at almost 800 pages (at least for my eARC), but I don't think that I would change a thing, honestly. Hazel's writing is lyrical, and she carefully sets up the latter half of the plot in a way that made the page count feel completely worth it.
The world-building is phenomenal and probably my favorite aspect of this series as a whole. The world feels rich, immersive, and so well-thought-out. I'm absolutely kicking myself for not picking this series up sooner (please tell me how I left this on my TBR for SO long???)! This story is not predictable in the SLIGHTEST, and the ending shook me to my core... again! Ms. Wilkes seems to have made this a habit of hers, as I genuinely believe I spent half this book with a hand over my mouth and my jaw agape. This series continues to absolutely exceed my expectations at every turn, and I'm already desperate for the next book.
& a huge thank you to Hazel S. Wilkes and The NerdFam for gifting me an eArc of "A Ballad for the Broken" in exchange for my honest review. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity.
May 29, 2026
Ballad for the Broken Arc Review
“It is a privilege to love at all, and so it is a privilege to grieve”
This novel is aptly named, as a reader you are connected with the characters who are dealing with grief, anger, and brokenness. There’s beauty in these pages, seeing how dealing with grief can connect you with others. This novel is a representation that we are not static, we are constantly evolving either accepting the darkness, or finding the light in the darkest places.
Lyra is a character who takes your heart. It’s heartbreaking that she continually does not find herself worthy or even good. Her drive to reunite with her friends and family is everything to me. The way she yearns for Draven melts my heart, knowing his thoughts are the same. Draven, his unrelenting love and loyalty to those he cares about is pure magic. Though he’s lived in years of darkness, his light will diminish it all.
The letters. No spoilers, but j want to highlight that this brought tears to my eyes in a good way. The shared pieces of each other were poetry, and deeply moving. This part was by far my favorite piece of this composition of symphonies. The found family continues to grow as new characters are introduced and they truly are the backbone for this epic work. There’s so much heart to this book, it draws you in and makes you grateful for picking up this book.
The plot building in this book is something else. I had no idea what was going to happen next, and each twist kept my heart racing. The character development was also something to recognize, are there some characters that I despise a little less… sure, but I won’t tell you who. There are also characters that I have grown to love even more. This novel has all the right ingredients, with perfect execution. If it was bake, Paul Hollywood would give Hazel a handshake.
This book will leave you with questions brewing, some tears, and it most definitely will leave you wanting. Perfect blend of action, magic, romance, and mystery. I can’t recommend this series enough, it will leave you with a lasting impact, and will remind you why this genre is fantastic. Thank you Hazel for allowing me to arc read, and with all my heart, I need a few days to recover after this ending. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“It is a privilege to love at all, and so it is a privilege to grieve”
This novel is aptly named, as a reader you are connected with the characters who are dealing with grief, anger, and brokenness. There’s beauty in these pages, seeing how dealing with grief can connect you with others. This novel is a representation that we are not static, we are constantly evolving either accepting the darkness, or finding the light in the darkest places.
Lyra is a character who takes your heart. It’s heartbreaking that she continually does not find herself worthy or even good. Her drive to reunite with her friends and family is everything to me. The way she yearns for Draven melts my heart, knowing his thoughts are the same. Draven, his unrelenting love and loyalty to those he cares about is pure magic. Though he’s lived in years of darkness, his light will diminish it all.
The letters. No spoilers, but j want to highlight that this brought tears to my eyes in a good way. The shared pieces of each other were poetry, and deeply moving. This part was by far my favorite piece of this composition of symphonies. The found family continues to grow as new characters are introduced and they truly are the backbone for this epic work. There’s so much heart to this book, it draws you in and makes you grateful for picking up this book.
The plot building in this book is something else. I had no idea what was going to happen next, and each twist kept my heart racing. The character development was also something to recognize, are there some characters that I despise a little less… sure, but I won’t tell you who. There are also characters that I have grown to love even more. This novel has all the right ingredients, with perfect execution. If it was bake, Paul Hollywood would give Hazel a handshake.
This book will leave you with questions brewing, some tears, and it most definitely will leave you wanting. Perfect blend of action, magic, romance, and mystery. I can’t recommend this series enough, it will leave you with a lasting impact, and will remind you why this genre is fantastic. Thank you Hazel for allowing me to arc read, and with all my heart, I need a few days to recover after this ending. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 9, 2026
Where do I start?! That ending has left me reeling!!! The emotional damage, the betrayals, the revelations. I’m stunned and desperately need the next book!! I have so so many questions!!
I have to admit that the first half of the book was slow for me. This is a chonky book so it took me quite a while to get through the first half. There are lots of POVs in this book and I think this made it hard for me to remain engaged to begin with. There’s also a lot of information given, expanded world building and magic system, new characters, extensive lore, politics and history and whilst interesting, not a lot really happening.
Everything in the first half sets up for the second half and it’s the second half where things really picked up! The second half completely gripped me and I ended up devouring 400 pages in less than 24hrs!! Lots happens and it had me on the edge of my seat. It was an emotional rollercoaster that I couldn’t get off of!
Although I struggled with the multiple POVs to begin with, they were done really well. They gave much needed insight into the actions of some characters. Characters I thought I would never be able to forgive ended up changing my mind through their POVs. I was able to relate to their reasonings, understand their motivations and even felt empathy for them by the end!
All the characters are complex and multilayered. Each and every character has had to make difficult choices at some point, then had to learn to live with the consequences of those choices. It made for some very raw and painful moments, but it also makes these characters all feel real and authentic.
Hazels writing is just incredible. It’s so beautiful and she conveys such emotional depth with her words, you can’t help but feel everything when reading her books. And the detail she gives enables you to fully immerse yourself into the world and story.
I absolutely adore this series. And although I did struggle a bit with the first half of this book, the second half more than made up for it!
Many thanks to The Nerd Fam and author Hazel S. Wilkes for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
I have to admit that the first half of the book was slow for me. This is a chonky book so it took me quite a while to get through the first half. There are lots of POVs in this book and I think this made it hard for me to remain engaged to begin with. There’s also a lot of information given, expanded world building and magic system, new characters, extensive lore, politics and history and whilst interesting, not a lot really happening.
Everything in the first half sets up for the second half and it’s the second half where things really picked up! The second half completely gripped me and I ended up devouring 400 pages in less than 24hrs!! Lots happens and it had me on the edge of my seat. It was an emotional rollercoaster that I couldn’t get off of!
Although I struggled with the multiple POVs to begin with, they were done really well. They gave much needed insight into the actions of some characters. Characters I thought I would never be able to forgive ended up changing my mind through their POVs. I was able to relate to their reasonings, understand their motivations and even felt empathy for them by the end!
All the characters are complex and multilayered. Each and every character has had to make difficult choices at some point, then had to learn to live with the consequences of those choices. It made for some very raw and painful moments, but it also makes these characters all feel real and authentic.
Hazels writing is just incredible. It’s so beautiful and she conveys such emotional depth with her words, you can’t help but feel everything when reading her books. And the detail she gives enables you to fully immerse yourself into the world and story.
I absolutely adore this series. And although I did struggle a bit with the first half of this book, the second half more than made up for it!
Many thanks to The Nerd Fam and author Hazel S. Wilkes for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
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