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Born from the Broken: Memories of Memnara
Six years ago, her husband gambled their unborn twins in the Quadrant Trials. He thought he was outsmarting them, until he died screaming, and the empire took her children anyway.
Now Elira has entered the Trials herself, determined to burn the world down to get them back. But the man who kept her alive, her protector, the one she was falling for despite every vow she made, had been lying the whole time. He is Sorin Valcairn, ruler of Osteria, and he orchestrated every moment of her suffering. He wanted her to lose. To be broken. To owe him everything.
Elira finds herself trapped in his palace of golden lies, where her twins are alive and loved and happy. Elira wants to hate him. But the space between vengeance and desire is thinner than a blade.
Born from the Broken is the first in a captivating, emotional romantasy trilogy of impossible choices, stolen magic, and a love that could ignite a revolution or destroy everything. Perfect for readers who crave morally grey anti-heroes, high-stakes political intrigue, and romance that leaves scars.
Now Elira has entered the Trials herself, determined to burn the world down to get them back. But the man who kept her alive, her protector, the one she was falling for despite every vow she made, had been lying the whole time. He is Sorin Valcairn, ruler of Osteria, and he orchestrated every moment of her suffering. He wanted her to lose. To be broken. To owe him everything.
Elira finds herself trapped in his palace of golden lies, where her twins are alive and loved and happy. Elira wants to hate him. But the space between vengeance and desire is thinner than a blade.
Born from the Broken is the first in a captivating, emotional romantasy trilogy of impossible choices, stolen magic, and a love that could ignite a revolution or destroy everything. Perfect for readers who crave morally grey anti-heroes, high-stakes political intrigue, and romance that leaves scars.
- GenresFantasy
565 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 2, 2026
I trust exactly two people in this book: the kids.
That’s it. That’s the list.
🧐Everyone else?? sus. immediately.
And honestly? I loved every second of it.
I am obsessed with Elira. She is fueled by grief, rage, and sheer determination, and she will absolutely burn the world down to get what’s hers. As she should.
But this story?? It plays games with you.
😮Every time I thought I understood what was happening. NOPE. Twist. Betrayal. New information that had me side-eyeing every single character all over again. The tension between vengeance and desire is razor thin and emotionally unhinged.
And Sorin… I don’t know what to do with him. The manipulation. The power plays. The AUDACITY. I truly never knew what to believe with him.🖤 #morallygrey
And then there’s Kairis 👀 Because of course we have a love triangle, and of course that situation is not what it seems either. He seems perfect, but again, I DO NOT KNOW!!
It does take a minute to settle into the world (romantasy gonna romantasy), but once it hits, it hits. The writing pulled me in completely, even when I was maybe slightly afraid to turn the page.
⚠️ Check content warnings: there are heavy themes around control and manipulation that may be difficult for some readers.
Anyway, I’m unwell, I trust no one (except the kids), and I need book two immediately because I have questions.
📅 Releases April 1 🙏 Thank you to Julieanna Mac for the ARC
That’s it. That’s the list.
🧐Everyone else?? sus. immediately.
And honestly? I loved every second of it.
I am obsessed with Elira. She is fueled by grief, rage, and sheer determination, and she will absolutely burn the world down to get what’s hers. As she should.
But this story?? It plays games with you.
😮Every time I thought I understood what was happening. NOPE. Twist. Betrayal. New information that had me side-eyeing every single character all over again. The tension between vengeance and desire is razor thin and emotionally unhinged.
And Sorin… I don’t know what to do with him. The manipulation. The power plays. The AUDACITY. I truly never knew what to believe with him.🖤 #morallygrey
And then there’s Kairis 👀 Because of course we have a love triangle, and of course that situation is not what it seems either. He seems perfect, but again, I DO NOT KNOW!!
It does take a minute to settle into the world (romantasy gonna romantasy), but once it hits, it hits. The writing pulled me in completely, even when I was maybe slightly afraid to turn the page.
⚠️ Check content warnings: there are heavy themes around control and manipulation that may be difficult for some readers.
Anyway, I’m unwell, I trust no one (except the kids), and I need book two immediately because I have questions.
📅 Releases April 1 🙏 Thank you to Julieanna Mac for the ARC
February 22, 2026
I don’t even know where to start with this because this was such a refreshing read for me. I’ve never experienced a book written in the way this one was. The grief was so raw and gritty it was almost as if I was connected to the character and experiencing her emotions as she experienced them. I also loved how the FMC is older than is normally portrayed because it shows that age doesn’t mean you need to be a badass. I need the second book so bad because wow. Another series to add to my favourites.
This was an ARC and the book comes out in April so I really highly recommend you read it, especially if you love a dark fantasy romance. Thank you so much to Julianna for allowing me access to this early.
This was an ARC and the book comes out in April so I really highly recommend you read it, especially if you love a dark fantasy romance. Thank you so much to Julianna for allowing me access to this early.
April 1, 2026
This is a must-read romantasy for 2026!
The book contained a rich writing style that oozed grittiness as well as magical moments of fantasy. It was truly the perfect blend of the two and brought the whole story together as the characters moved throughout the story between the deadly competition of the Trials to the lavish cage of Sorin’s palace.
I loved how the famous Trials were merely the start of Elira’s journey. The Trials provided so many stakes and really allowed us to get to know our cast of characters so well, and maybe fall in love with one or two of them 😉
We had Elira, our FMC who was the embodiment of nothing left to lose. The power, rage, and grief dripped off of her from the very first page, showing us that she was a force to be reckoned with. I also loved that even as much grief as she had experienced, as much as the world had taken from her, she was still easily able to form a found family with others in the trials she connected with.
Then we had Serah, the young woman mentally and emotionally aged by so many brutal experiences in her life. If Elira embodied nothing left to lose, Serah embodied hope. Hope for a better life, hope for overcoming her past, hope for the true love of others. Serah may have appeared meek, but the greatest things come in small packages. I don’t want to spoil anything, but let’s just say that Serah is a lot more than she seems.
Next we had Kairis, the sworn protector first of Serah and then of Elira. Always thinking, always protecting, always there when needed. I loved how he took Serah under his wing and I loved his strong connection with Elira that she hadn’t a clue where it came from. He was also probably the most enigmatic character in my opinion. He was so guarded, often giving us breadcrumbs about his background, leaving us salivating for more! And boy, did his story unfold in that last half of the book! My most mind-blowing moments definitely came at the hands of Kairis!!
Lastly, we had Varyn/Sorin, the bad guy in disguise. Oh, how I loved this completely unhinged, morally grey man. There is just something about him that makes you want to slap him and then kiss him fiercely. He had a lot of shady moments, it is never claimed that he is a good guy, but he has a lot of good qualities if you squint hard enough (haha jk). His love for Elira’s twins, his brotherly love towards Serah, his need to protect Elira despite it looking like he isn’t at times, and his overall affection for her knowing that she can doom him, really sold him as the complex character that he is. He was searingly sexy and totally who I want her to end up with in the end, if she ends up with anyone!
This book had so many secrets and twists that kept me guessing. And I’m really not sure what to expect going into book 2 from THAT ENDING, but I definitely have theories!!!
If you take nothing else from this review, just know that there was so much rage and grief and sorrow, but moments of joy and found family that broke through the harder bits, making this a complex and wonderful start of a romantasy trilogy you’ll surely want to read.
Thank you to Julieanna Mac for the eARC! I can’t wait to support you (and Elira!) on the rest of this journey!
4.5 stars.
The book contained a rich writing style that oozed grittiness as well as magical moments of fantasy. It was truly the perfect blend of the two and brought the whole story together as the characters moved throughout the story between the deadly competition of the Trials to the lavish cage of Sorin’s palace.
I loved how the famous Trials were merely the start of Elira’s journey. The Trials provided so many stakes and really allowed us to get to know our cast of characters so well, and maybe fall in love with one or two of them 😉
We had Elira, our FMC who was the embodiment of nothing left to lose. The power, rage, and grief dripped off of her from the very first page, showing us that she was a force to be reckoned with. I also loved that even as much grief as she had experienced, as much as the world had taken from her, she was still easily able to form a found family with others in the trials she connected with.
Then we had Serah, the young woman mentally and emotionally aged by so many brutal experiences in her life. If Elira embodied nothing left to lose, Serah embodied hope. Hope for a better life, hope for overcoming her past, hope for the true love of others. Serah may have appeared meek, but the greatest things come in small packages. I don’t want to spoil anything, but let’s just say that Serah is a lot more than she seems.
Next we had Kairis, the sworn protector first of Serah and then of Elira. Always thinking, always protecting, always there when needed. I loved how he took Serah under his wing and I loved his strong connection with Elira that she hadn’t a clue where it came from. He was also probably the most enigmatic character in my opinion. He was so guarded, often giving us breadcrumbs about his background, leaving us salivating for more! And boy, did his story unfold in that last half of the book! My most mind-blowing moments definitely came at the hands of Kairis!!
Lastly, we had Varyn/Sorin, the bad guy in disguise. Oh, how I loved this completely unhinged, morally grey man. There is just something about him that makes you want to slap him and then kiss him fiercely. He had a lot of shady moments, it is never claimed that he is a good guy, but he has a lot of good qualities if you squint hard enough (haha jk). His love for Elira’s twins, his brotherly love towards Serah, his need to protect Elira despite it looking like he isn’t at times, and his overall affection for her knowing that she can doom him, really sold him as the complex character that he is. He was searingly sexy and totally who I want her to end up with in the end, if she ends up with anyone!
This book had so many secrets and twists that kept me guessing. And I’m really not sure what to expect going into book 2 from THAT ENDING, but I definitely have theories!!!
If you take nothing else from this review, just know that there was so much rage and grief and sorrow, but moments of joy and found family that broke through the harder bits, making this a complex and wonderful start of a romantasy trilogy you’ll surely want to read.
Thank you to Julieanna Mac for the eARC! I can’t wait to support you (and Elira!) on the rest of this journey!
4.5 stars.
January 1, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
No matter what I write, I fear I cannot do this book justice. It’s such a beautifully written tragic romantasy book that had me going through a plethora of emotions with the FMC. It’s a story about what a mother would go through and do for her children, and it’s so beautiful.
The grief, pain, and fury she goes through in this story is so vivid it’s as if you are going through it with her and has you rooting for her throughout.
Recently, I have read a lot of romantasy books with the same formula, which has left me feeling sceptical about picking up a new one, but this one is so unique and different from others that it is so refreshing.
We have our FMC, Elira, who has gone through the ultimate pain a mother can go through, having her babies taken from her. To get them back, she voluntarily goes through trials to win the ultimate prize, a favour from the ruler, Sorin Valcarin. Unfortunately, Elira is not successful, and as such, we navigate her journey through her grief, her fight for her children, and navigating through the consequences of failing the trials.
We then have our morally grey, hot, sexy ruler of a MMC, Sorin. Ngl, at times, he pissed me the hell off, but there were also times I swooned. He is charming and cruel and wants Elira and does not hide this at all…like he ain’t subtle 🤣 The tension and chemistry between him and Elira is electric, and that betrayal cut so deep I just cannot.
Not only do we navigate through the characters’ story and development, we are also introduced to a political system that holds a lot of sexism, bias, and corruption, and we see Elira trying to find her way to survive this corrupt system for the sake of her children. Every choice she makes seems impossible, and Elira has to choose between her children and her love for Sorin.
I was so emotionally invested by the end of the book that I grasped at the ending. Like, how can it be left on that cliffhanger!! So cruel, and I honestly cannot wait for book 2.
No matter what I write, I fear I cannot do this book justice. It’s such a beautifully written tragic romantasy book that had me going through a plethora of emotions with the FMC. It’s a story about what a mother would go through and do for her children, and it’s so beautiful.
The grief, pain, and fury she goes through in this story is so vivid it’s as if you are going through it with her and has you rooting for her throughout.
Recently, I have read a lot of romantasy books with the same formula, which has left me feeling sceptical about picking up a new one, but this one is so unique and different from others that it is so refreshing.
We have our FMC, Elira, who has gone through the ultimate pain a mother can go through, having her babies taken from her. To get them back, she voluntarily goes through trials to win the ultimate prize, a favour from the ruler, Sorin Valcarin. Unfortunately, Elira is not successful, and as such, we navigate her journey through her grief, her fight for her children, and navigating through the consequences of failing the trials.
We then have our morally grey, hot, sexy ruler of a MMC, Sorin. Ngl, at times, he pissed me the hell off, but there were also times I swooned. He is charming and cruel and wants Elira and does not hide this at all…like he ain’t subtle 🤣 The tension and chemistry between him and Elira is electric, and that betrayal cut so deep I just cannot.
Not only do we navigate through the characters’ story and development, we are also introduced to a political system that holds a lot of sexism, bias, and corruption, and we see Elira trying to find her way to survive this corrupt system for the sake of her children. Every choice she makes seems impossible, and Elira has to choose between her children and her love for Sorin.
I was so emotionally invested by the end of the book that I grasped at the ending. Like, how can it be left on that cliffhanger!! So cruel, and I honestly cannot wait for book 2.
January 2, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book, and wow!
This story is full of ups and downs. It’s Romantasy story with a bit of everything including espionage, tragedy, betrayal, and mixed in with an enemies to lovers and love triangle situation. It has magic, but doesn’t read like a typical magical book and creates a unique world different from others I’ve read in other fantasy books.
The FMC, Elira, shows so many different sides of herself in this story, and so many of them are relatable you can easily find yourself rooting for her while screaming when things go off the rails. The fury of a mother fighting for her children is like no other.
The story has a lot going on in the background that has you trying to understand motivations and if they are genuine, or not. There’s an intricate chess match being played, but you don’t have all the pieces keeping the story anything but predictable.
Sorin is the epitome of morally grey, and when those moments of genuine emotion come through, you cannot help but forget his past mistakes.
This is a great first book, and I’m excited to see more of what’s to come in this series!
This story is full of ups and downs. It’s Romantasy story with a bit of everything including espionage, tragedy, betrayal, and mixed in with an enemies to lovers and love triangle situation. It has magic, but doesn’t read like a typical magical book and creates a unique world different from others I’ve read in other fantasy books.
The FMC, Elira, shows so many different sides of herself in this story, and so many of them are relatable you can easily find yourself rooting for her while screaming when things go off the rails. The fury of a mother fighting for her children is like no other.
The story has a lot going on in the background that has you trying to understand motivations and if they are genuine, or not. There’s an intricate chess match being played, but you don’t have all the pieces keeping the story anything but predictable.
Sorin is the epitome of morally grey, and when those moments of genuine emotion come through, you cannot help but forget his past mistakes.
This is a great first book, and I’m excited to see more of what’s to come in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this story.
"The first Valcairn ruler wore power like a lover's touch: pure undeniable, and seductive."
"Hope was a powerful drug, even when it came laced with poison."
Firstly I want to praise Julieanna's writing, there were so many times I highlighted sentences that were incredibly beautiful. I'm also happy that she put the trials back in, I decided to not read the book until they were to make sure I got a better understanding of the magic system.
The trials were so exciting and you got to understand the players and their motives as well as the cruelties of mined magic. Speaking of magic, I loved the concept of trapping memories in the coins, I would have loved to know even more. I'm sure they will come up in book two.
I did however have a few gripes with aspects of the story. Personally none of the characters save from Liora felt like they were older. If we weren't told that the trio were in their 30s/late 30s I would have guessed 21.
I also wished we had scenes where Elira really showed her strength, she was mostly saved by the men physically in the trials and when one disappeared she would run to lean on the next mentally. There were pockets of her showing her magical strength but she was always breaking like glass mentally.
For me a 3 star read isn't bad. It means I finished the book and mostly enjoyed it. :)
"The first Valcairn ruler wore power like a lover's touch: pure undeniable, and seductive."
"Hope was a powerful drug, even when it came laced with poison."
Firstly I want to praise Julieanna's writing, there were so many times I highlighted sentences that were incredibly beautiful. I'm also happy that she put the trials back in, I decided to not read the book until they were to make sure I got a better understanding of the magic system.
The trials were so exciting and you got to understand the players and their motives as well as the cruelties of mined magic. Speaking of magic, I loved the concept of trapping memories in the coins, I would have loved to know even more. I'm sure they will come up in book two.
I did however have a few gripes with aspects of the story. Personally none of the characters save from Liora felt like they were older. If we weren't told that the trio were in their 30s/late 30s I would have guessed 21.
I also wished we had scenes where Elira really showed her strength, she was mostly saved by the men physically in the trials and when one disappeared she would run to lean on the next mentally. There were pockets of her showing her magical strength but she was always breaking like glass mentally.
For me a 3 star read isn't bad. It means I finished the book and mostly enjoyed it. :)
April 6, 2026
The immersive atmosphere and the emotional rawness of this novel came through right away, and I was immediately hooked from the start, this beautiful tragic romantasy took over my life and I am not complaining.
All of the characters were vividly portrayed and well-written. There were multiple POVs so I had glimpses of their lives. With these, it also felt like I was connected more to them making me root for them until the very end. The amount of struggles and emotional tension that came with grief were so uncomfortably pure and beautifully portrayed. Truly, there's nothing more powerful than a mother's love and this greatly resonated in the book and I was in awe at how this element was navigated with utmost care and respect.
I am also glad that these are much older characters and I was absolutely invested with their romance as the flow felt a bit better. Eeeek, if you love a romantasy that is dangerous, fury-filled, and magic-fueled, then this is definitely a must-read!! Recommended! ✨️
Many thanks to Julieanna Mac for giving me the opportunity to read the e-ARC! I'm so grateful for you and I'm excited to read your next ones! 🫶
Born from the broken is now published and you can borrow this on Kindle Unlimited or purchase them as paperback, hardback, or an e-book. Have fun with this amazing book!
All of the characters were vividly portrayed and well-written. There were multiple POVs so I had glimpses of their lives. With these, it also felt like I was connected more to them making me root for them until the very end. The amount of struggles and emotional tension that came with grief were so uncomfortably pure and beautifully portrayed. Truly, there's nothing more powerful than a mother's love and this greatly resonated in the book and I was in awe at how this element was navigated with utmost care and respect.
I am also glad that these are much older characters and I was absolutely invested with their romance as the flow felt a bit better. Eeeek, if you love a romantasy that is dangerous, fury-filled, and magic-fueled, then this is definitely a must-read!! Recommended! ✨️
Many thanks to Julieanna Mac for giving me the opportunity to read the e-ARC! I'm so grateful for you and I'm excited to read your next ones! 🫶
Born from the broken is now published and you can borrow this on Kindle Unlimited or purchase them as paperback, hardback, or an e-book. Have fun with this amazing book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really loved how the FMC was older and had kiddos. Nothing says feminine rage quite like mama bear energy ya know?
I thought the pacing was a little hard to follow, but all in all it was a good read. The end twist kind of threw me an I had several questions because WHY?!?! BUT I think she is setting this up for a really cool world full of political intrigue & for that, I’m down.
I found the characters to be written in a way that was realistic, relatable and very...human. So definitely points for that as well!
I read @julieanna_mac’s book in January and I’m still thinking about it so…
Truly it was a well written book with my only issue being some of the pacing or time jumps between chapters. Definitely not a deal breaker and I’m excited for book 2!
I thought the pacing was a little hard to follow, but all in all it was a good read. The end twist kind of threw me an I had several questions because WHY?!?! BUT I think she is setting this up for a really cool world full of political intrigue & for that, I’m down.
I found the characters to be written in a way that was realistic, relatable and very...human. So definitely points for that as well!
I read @julieanna_mac’s book in January and I’m still thinking about it so…
Truly it was a well written book with my only issue being some of the pacing or time jumps between chapters. Definitely not a deal breaker and I’m excited for book 2!
March 28, 2026
I received this ARC and I’m honestly still thinking about it.
This felt really different..The emotions, especially the grief, were so raw it almost made me uncomfortable at times, but in a good way. It really pulls you in and makes everything feel very real.
I loved that Elira is an older FMC. She’s not perfect, she’s layered, emotional, strong in her own way, and that whole protective/mother side of her just hits differently. I was rooting for her but also like… girl please sometimes!!
There’s a lot going on in the story: politics, betrayal, shifting loyalties aaaaand it definitely keeps you on your toes. It feels like there’s a bigger game being played and you’re just trying to keep up and figure out who to trust.
Now Sorin… yeah. He really frustrated me at times, I’m not even going to lie. But it works for the plot, so you can’t even complain too much. He’s very morally grey, and just when you’re over him, he gives you a moment that pulls you right back in.
Overall, this was such a strong start to a series for me. Different, emotional, and messy in the best way. Sooo, Julieanna I'm soooooo need book two right now!
This felt really different..The emotions, especially the grief, were so raw it almost made me uncomfortable at times, but in a good way. It really pulls you in and makes everything feel very real.
I loved that Elira is an older FMC. She’s not perfect, she’s layered, emotional, strong in her own way, and that whole protective/mother side of her just hits differently. I was rooting for her but also like… girl please sometimes!!
There’s a lot going on in the story: politics, betrayal, shifting loyalties aaaaand it definitely keeps you on your toes. It feels like there’s a bigger game being played and you’re just trying to keep up and figure out who to trust.
Now Sorin… yeah. He really frustrated me at times, I’m not even going to lie. But it works for the plot, so you can’t even complain too much. He’s very morally grey, and just when you’re over him, he gives you a moment that pulls you right back in.
Overall, this was such a strong start to a series for me. Different, emotional, and messy in the best way. Sooo, Julieanna I'm soooooo need book two right now!
December 29, 2025
This is a beautifully tragic story about the lengths that a parent will go through for their children. It has a unique and intriguing magic system that I have not yet seen and is filled with themes of touch her and die, morally gray MMC, enemies to lovers, strong FMC, and an ending that made my jaw drop. Thank you so much Julieanna Mac for the opportunity to read this ARC! Cannot wait to see where this story takes us in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really ended up loving this book.
It follows Elira as she enters the Quadrant Trials and gets pulled into a dangerous, political, magic-filled situation where the truth is constantly shifting. The stakes felt high right away and I was hooked.
One of my favorite things was that Elira is older than the typical romantasy heroine. She has history, grief, and real weight behind her decisions, which made her feel very real and easy to root for.
I also really liked the multiple POV format. Getting glimpses into other characters added tension and made certain moments hit harder.
There’s an early chapter that shows some of the Houses and the kind of power they hold through a family caught in the middle. I understood why it was included, but I did find myself wondering if we’ll come back to those people later, because it felt important.
If I had one small critique, it’s that parts toward the end moved pretty quickly. I wouldn’t have minded slowing down and sitting with a few developments a little longer.
With a love triangle, a morally grey MMC, and a strong hero energy on the other side, the character dynamics were so good.
I was completely invested, and the ending left me very ready for book two. It’s a strong start to the series, especially for readers who love high stakes, emotional tension, and complicated characters.
ARC provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It follows Elira as she enters the Quadrant Trials and gets pulled into a dangerous, political, magic-filled situation where the truth is constantly shifting. The stakes felt high right away and I was hooked.
One of my favorite things was that Elira is older than the typical romantasy heroine. She has history, grief, and real weight behind her decisions, which made her feel very real and easy to root for.
I also really liked the multiple POV format. Getting glimpses into other characters added tension and made certain moments hit harder.
There’s an early chapter that shows some of the Houses and the kind of power they hold through a family caught in the middle. I understood why it was included, but I did find myself wondering if we’ll come back to those people later, because it felt important.
If I had one small critique, it’s that parts toward the end moved pretty quickly. I wouldn’t have minded slowing down and sitting with a few developments a little longer.
With a love triangle, a morally grey MMC, and a strong hero energy on the other side, the character dynamics were so good.
I was completely invested, and the ending left me very ready for book two. It’s a strong start to the series, especially for readers who love high stakes, emotional tension, and complicated characters.
ARC provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2026
⭐️ARC Review ⭐️
Wow what a book and what a story! I had the privilege of being gifted the advanced copy and it’s amazing, great world building, multiple first person POVs. The ending was so brutal!
We follow Elira into trials she is determined to win so she can claim something back that was taken from her when her husband did the trials. She encounters a couple of very irresistible men along the way, making her choose which one she should be with as they both have different personalities and qualities. However, things take the turn for the worse and now she has to decide if by giving into one will grant her the freedom she needs to claim back what was taken and become a pawn ♟️ in a bigger game or choosing the other, become a rebel and limit that chance of freedom and the chance of never reaching the thing she most desires!
⭐️unique magic system
⭐️found family
⭐️deadly trials
⭐️revenge plotting
Wow what a book and what a story! I had the privilege of being gifted the advanced copy and it’s amazing, great world building, multiple first person POVs. The ending was so brutal!
We follow Elira into trials she is determined to win so she can claim something back that was taken from her when her husband did the trials. She encounters a couple of very irresistible men along the way, making her choose which one she should be with as they both have different personalities and qualities. However, things take the turn for the worse and now she has to decide if by giving into one will grant her the freedom she needs to claim back what was taken and become a pawn ♟️ in a bigger game or choosing the other, become a rebel and limit that chance of freedom and the chance of never reaching the thing she most desires!
⭐️unique magic system
⭐️found family
⭐️deadly trials
⭐️revenge plotting
February 28, 2026
I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this and I was nottttttt disappointed in the slightest. This was sooo good. There’s tension, there’s yearning, there’s deception, there’s trials, there’s twists that will melt your brain. The magic system is different to anything I’ve read before aswell. It was just great all round and I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in store.
January 30, 2026
Born from the broken had everything I needed in a fantasy featuring my favourite trope - deadly trials and I absolutely devoured it!
It was an enchanting combination of
* political drama where loyalities are tested and broken
*male love interests who really shouldn't be love interests but are too hard to ignore
*a feisty female main character who has been broken one too many times and now WILL NOT BACK DOWN. (and i'm sat for it)
*a unique magic system
*impossible choices that leave you screaming at the characters and yet wishing you could wrap them up all nice and safe (naughty author being mean!)
But what I loved the most about it was that Elira (FMC) was a mother who just wanted her children back. This struck a hard cord and I must admit, I was nervous to read it, because it is a trigger for me (as a mother myself, the idea - I can't even write it- breaks my heart), but Julieanna Mac handled this so well, and portrayed the absolute insane depths a mother will go to for her children. I love that finally, here, is a character I can relate to, and stand by, and I just felt so SEEN reading this.
Sorin, the male love interest is not morally grey as of typical romantasies - he isn't morally grey to make him more attractive - no, he is dangerous, and complicated and broken, and oh, I went through so many conflicted thoughts reading this novel.
It's a powerful, emotional read, that you shouldn't go into lightly, with a strong plot backbone and characters that are complex and REAL.
Read. Devour. Scream (nicely) at the author for being mean to the characters. This is going to be a hot read for 2026. Thank you for letting me be one of the first to get my hands on it (ARC copy)!
It was an enchanting combination of
* political drama where loyalities are tested and broken
*male love interests who really shouldn't be love interests but are too hard to ignore
*a feisty female main character who has been broken one too many times and now WILL NOT BACK DOWN. (and i'm sat for it)
*a unique magic system
*impossible choices that leave you screaming at the characters and yet wishing you could wrap them up all nice and safe (naughty author being mean!)
But what I loved the most about it was that Elira (FMC) was a mother who just wanted her children back. This struck a hard cord and I must admit, I was nervous to read it, because it is a trigger for me (as a mother myself, the idea - I can't even write it- breaks my heart), but Julieanna Mac handled this so well, and portrayed the absolute insane depths a mother will go to for her children. I love that finally, here, is a character I can relate to, and stand by, and I just felt so SEEN reading this.
Sorin, the male love interest is not morally grey as of typical romantasies - he isn't morally grey to make him more attractive - no, he is dangerous, and complicated and broken, and oh, I went through so many conflicted thoughts reading this novel.
It's a powerful, emotional read, that you shouldn't go into lightly, with a strong plot backbone and characters that are complex and REAL.
Read. Devour. Scream (nicely) at the author for being mean to the characters. This is going to be a hot read for 2026. Thank you for letting me be one of the first to get my hands on it (ARC copy)!
February 22, 2026
Born from the Broken by Julieanna Mac
Book 1 of Memories of Memnara
1st April 2026
Thank to Julieanna for the gifted eARC and allowing me to travel this amazing journey with you. This is my unbiased review.
Born from the Broken is a Romantasy that will tear our your heart with claws of rage, lies and betrayal and leave it bleeding.
The book is told in multi POV and I have to say that this is how multi POV should be done! Even though you get everyone’s thoughts, the twist, betrayals and gut wrenching emotions are visceral and surprising. That is down to Julieanna’s immersive writing skills. By 10% I was hooked, by 50% I was all in and when I finished my emotions were rung out and I had to take time to process and fully digest the masterpiece that is Born from the Broken because that cliff hanger was criminally good.
This book is raw, emotionally devastating and intriguing. The political machinations that weave through the story are riveting, the world and magic system are unique. And the characters are so well developed you understand their nuances and somehow almost understand the reasoning for their actions even when they infuriate you.
I’ll say it again the book was a masterpiece, I haven’t felt this lost and desperate for the story to continue in years
Book 1 of Memories of Memnara
1st April 2026
Thank to Julieanna for the gifted eARC and allowing me to travel this amazing journey with you. This is my unbiased review.
Born from the Broken is a Romantasy that will tear our your heart with claws of rage, lies and betrayal and leave it bleeding.
The book is told in multi POV and I have to say that this is how multi POV should be done! Even though you get everyone’s thoughts, the twist, betrayals and gut wrenching emotions are visceral and surprising. That is down to Julieanna’s immersive writing skills. By 10% I was hooked, by 50% I was all in and when I finished my emotions were rung out and I had to take time to process and fully digest the masterpiece that is Born from the Broken because that cliff hanger was criminally good.
This book is raw, emotionally devastating and intriguing. The political machinations that weave through the story are riveting, the world and magic system are unique. And the characters are so well developed you understand their nuances and somehow almost understand the reasoning for their actions even when they infuriate you.
I’ll say it again the book was a masterpiece, I haven’t felt this lost and desperate for the story to continue in years
February 22, 2026
This book…
Upon receiving this book as an advanced readers copy I did not know what to expect. The blurb seemed interesting and unique so I was very intrigued.
After starting to read it, at first I was rather confused between some of the interactions and emotions of some of the characters, it wasn’t until later on that I began to understand some of the details. Since then I have spoken with the lovely Julieanna and some of these things that are intrinsic to the story will be held within the trails (which I currently do not have) and is in the process of some editorial changes ;).
Updated:
When I originally received this ARC the trials had been removed at the editorial stage, however a lot of the story seemed to be missing and somethings were hard to understand. On the second ARC run the trials were added back in and the whole story came together perfectly, explaining actions and reactions characters took and why they felt as they did.
For the lovers of hunger games, dystopian and morally grey characters. This book encompasses them all in a new way with a magical system that favours the rich and powerful, the MFC has to go through trials to fight for the return of her children who had been taken during the last trials. Because of this it brought a whole new depth to the story along with a lot of heartache and longing.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book, the characters and the story. It held me captivated from start to finish, wanting to know what was going to happen to them all. As it happens I now can’t wait for book two to find out what happens next for these lovely and morally grey characters.
Upon receiving this book as an advanced readers copy I did not know what to expect. The blurb seemed interesting and unique so I was very intrigued.
After starting to read it, at first I was rather confused between some of the interactions and emotions of some of the characters, it wasn’t until later on that I began to understand some of the details. Since then I have spoken with the lovely Julieanna and some of these things that are intrinsic to the story will be held within the trails (which I currently do not have) and is in the process of some editorial changes ;).
Updated:
When I originally received this ARC the trials had been removed at the editorial stage, however a lot of the story seemed to be missing and somethings were hard to understand. On the second ARC run the trials were added back in and the whole story came together perfectly, explaining actions and reactions characters took and why they felt as they did.
For the lovers of hunger games, dystopian and morally grey characters. This book encompasses them all in a new way with a magical system that favours the rich and powerful, the MFC has to go through trials to fight for the return of her children who had been taken during the last trials. Because of this it brought a whole new depth to the story along with a lot of heartache and longing.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book, the characters and the story. It held me captivated from start to finish, wanting to know what was going to happen to them all. As it happens I now can’t wait for book two to find out what happens next for these lovely and morally grey characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a seriously astonishing, immersive, and unforgettable read for me, and that says something, with the amount I read.
Born from the Broken: Memories of Memnara by Julieanna Mac is the kind of book (to me) that reminds you why storytelling really matters. From the very first chapter, Julieanna delivers the reader a world so vividly constructed, atmospheric, with such an emotional connection, that it felt less like reading and more like stepping through a doorway into Memnara itself.
The worldbuilding was like a masterclass with regards to balance— it was rich without being overwhelming, imaginative and immersive without losing emotional grounding. Every location feels crafted with history, culture, and purpose, and not just thrown in to expand a word count. Julieanna uses incredible sensory details and layers of lore to steadily build an expansive world, while allowing it to maintain complete clarity. It’s the kind of world that feels ancient (yet alive), shaped by conflicts, traditions, and secrets that surface at exactly the right moments!
The characters within the pages are as equally as stunning. They’re written flawed, resilient, and achingly human, even though we know, they aren’t entirely human at all!! Julianna has a SERIOUS gift for creating characters, who have such incredibly emotional journeys and those journeys stay with you long after the last the story (currently still rent free in my head). Their motivations within the story are believable, their relationships are complex, and their growth is both incredibly well earned and deeply satisfying. The protagonist’s evolution, in particular, is a page turning in itself! Every internal struggle and every triumph hits with a real human emotional weight, that just hits you right in the chest.
I completely LOVED Julieanna's writing style, its almost lyrical without ever sacrificing its clarity. Her writing blends poetic expression with sharp, impactful storytelling. It’s immersive, cinematic (im such a visual reader), and evocative, the kind of style that makes you stop in awe and reread lines because they’re that beautiful. The pacing through the novel is spot-on: its thoughtful and steady in the world-heavy moments, are depicted sharp and electric when the narrative turns.
And then it comes to the twist. That twist is the kind of turning point that doesn’t just surprise you—it blows EVERY THEORY you had out of the water!!! Everything you thought you understood, you REALLY didnt. Although Julieanna secretly and awesomely plants snippets of clues throughout the novel, with such subtlety. When the reveal hits, it just shocking and inevitable floors you ALL AT ONCE. Possibly causing a "HUH WHAT OMG" Reread 3 or more times of it!! It’s bold, brilliantly executed, and emotionally devastating in every which way possible. This moment alone elevated the book from great to unforgettable!!! I SERIOUSLY NEED A PHYSICAL OF THIS BOOK.
The ending of the book ties every threads together with precision and serious heart. It left me feeling completely satisfied. It also was a bittersweet moment, and full of promise. Julieanna to me avoids easy simple answers and instead delivers an ending that honors the characters journeys, while leaving just enough mystery lingering in your mind. It’s the rare finale that feels both complete and like the beginning of something even larger. And I CANNOT WAIT to see if there's a book 2 💝💝
Ovwrall from me. This ARC proves Julieanna has crafted a masterpiece. Born from the Broken: Memories of Memnara is deeply imaginative, emotionally gripping, and exquisitely written. A must-read for anyone who loves fantasy with soul, substance, and stunning surprises. Six stars, without hesitation, again and again
This was a seriously astonishing, immersive, and unforgettable read for me, and that says something, with the amount I read.
Born from the Broken: Memories of Memnara by Julieanna Mac is the kind of book (to me) that reminds you why storytelling really matters. From the very first chapter, Julieanna delivers the reader a world so vividly constructed, atmospheric, with such an emotional connection, that it felt less like reading and more like stepping through a doorway into Memnara itself.
The worldbuilding was like a masterclass with regards to balance— it was rich without being overwhelming, imaginative and immersive without losing emotional grounding. Every location feels crafted with history, culture, and purpose, and not just thrown in to expand a word count. Julieanna uses incredible sensory details and layers of lore to steadily build an expansive world, while allowing it to maintain complete clarity. It’s the kind of world that feels ancient (yet alive), shaped by conflicts, traditions, and secrets that surface at exactly the right moments!
The characters within the pages are as equally as stunning. They’re written flawed, resilient, and achingly human, even though we know, they aren’t entirely human at all!! Julianna has a SERIOUS gift for creating characters, who have such incredibly emotional journeys and those journeys stay with you long after the last the story (currently still rent free in my head). Their motivations within the story are believable, their relationships are complex, and their growth is both incredibly well earned and deeply satisfying. The protagonist’s evolution, in particular, is a page turning in itself! Every internal struggle and every triumph hits with a real human emotional weight, that just hits you right in the chest.
I completely LOVED Julieanna's writing style, its almost lyrical without ever sacrificing its clarity. Her writing blends poetic expression with sharp, impactful storytelling. It’s immersive, cinematic (im such a visual reader), and evocative, the kind of style that makes you stop in awe and reread lines because they’re that beautiful. The pacing through the novel is spot-on: its thoughtful and steady in the world-heavy moments, are depicted sharp and electric when the narrative turns.
And then it comes to the twist. That twist is the kind of turning point that doesn’t just surprise you—it blows EVERY THEORY you had out of the water!!! Everything you thought you understood, you REALLY didnt. Although Julieanna secretly and awesomely plants snippets of clues throughout the novel, with such subtlety. When the reveal hits, it just shocking and inevitable floors you ALL AT ONCE. Possibly causing a "HUH WHAT OMG" Reread 3 or more times of it!! It’s bold, brilliantly executed, and emotionally devastating in every which way possible. This moment alone elevated the book from great to unforgettable!!! I SERIOUSLY NEED A PHYSICAL OF THIS BOOK.
The ending of the book ties every threads together with precision and serious heart. It left me feeling completely satisfied. It also was a bittersweet moment, and full of promise. Julieanna to me avoids easy simple answers and instead delivers an ending that honors the characters journeys, while leaving just enough mystery lingering in your mind. It’s the rare finale that feels both complete and like the beginning of something even larger. And I CANNOT WAIT to see if there's a book 2 💝💝
Ovwrall from me. This ARC proves Julieanna has crafted a masterpiece. Born from the Broken: Memories of Memnara is deeply imaginative, emotionally gripping, and exquisitely written. A must-read for anyone who loves fantasy with soul, substance, and stunning surprises. Six stars, without hesitation, again and again
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this is my review of the E-ARC of born from the broken that is releasing April 1st
born from the broken is one of those books that stays with you.. and I mean stays with you!!! because I am wrecked and heartbroken in the most perfect way
the emotions I felt when reading this book, I was feeling everything the FMC Elira was feeling… I got angry when she was… I felt the love and lust for the MMC Sorin she was feeling and I cried when she was upset and denied the very thing she wanted most.. her babies.. her children (there’s only so many books that have made me cry as bad as I did)
so you will be feeling all the emotions that our FMC is feeling at the time she is feeling them-
Elira is the exact kind of FMC I’ve been looking for in a romantasy.. she’s not this young.. defenceless girl who needs protection.. Elira is an older more mature fmc and she’s just as much a badass if not better than younger fmcs!! she’s just a mama doing everything she can to get her babies back
Sorin is also the kind of MMC I’ve been wanting to read.. yes the shadow daddy’s and fae men are nice and all but Sorin? oh he’s another level.. the chemistry and tension and slow burn between him and Elira? wow… he’s sweet… and charming.. flirtatious and cruel all in the one package and had me honestly questioning myself but when does romantasy males not? he’ll piss you off and make you fall for him all in the one..
It’s the perfect blend of enemies to lovers.. love triangles.. secrets.. deception.. magic… trials.. deadly trials and grief all packed into one.. I honestly do recommend you read if you’re a romantasy person.. even if you’re not a parent (like myself) you can really enjoy born from the broken and feel all the emotions that Elira is feeling it’s that well written!! (Let me add the Trials were added in after the arc was released and it was the best thing to do and I’m so glad I held off on reading more until those trials were added or really tied the story together!)
I was in a book slump for the past couple months of the new year and hunkering down and reading the ARC brought me out of it, I was that captivated.. and sucked into the story..
it’s an emotional rollercoaster that will scar you but you will love it and still want more with the twists and the cliffhanger!! It honestly gave me an escape to a different place which is what I look for in romantasy and fantasy books, that they help me escape and BFTB did exactly that!
I want to thank Julieanna for allowing me to be apart of her ARC team (it was my first time doing something like this) and reading the Advance reader copy of born from the broken, it’s been an honour and I’ve loved every part of it and I cannot wait to read the second book!! I honestly don’t think my review can do her book justice so you’ll need to read it and see how good it is because it is!! and I wish I could rate higher than 5 stars because to me it’s a 10 star
💫 Older FMC
💫 Morally Gray MMC
💫 Enemies to Lovers
💫 Found Family
💫 Deadly Trials
💫 Heartache
💫 Betrayal
💫 Unique Magic System
💫 immersive world building
born from the broken is one of those books that stays with you.. and I mean stays with you!!! because I am wrecked and heartbroken in the most perfect way
the emotions I felt when reading this book, I was feeling everything the FMC Elira was feeling… I got angry when she was… I felt the love and lust for the MMC Sorin she was feeling and I cried when she was upset and denied the very thing she wanted most.. her babies.. her children (there’s only so many books that have made me cry as bad as I did)
so you will be feeling all the emotions that our FMC is feeling at the time she is feeling them-
Elira is the exact kind of FMC I’ve been looking for in a romantasy.. she’s not this young.. defenceless girl who needs protection.. Elira is an older more mature fmc and she’s just as much a badass if not better than younger fmcs!! she’s just a mama doing everything she can to get her babies back
Sorin is also the kind of MMC I’ve been wanting to read.. yes the shadow daddy’s and fae men are nice and all but Sorin? oh he’s another level.. the chemistry and tension and slow burn between him and Elira? wow… he’s sweet… and charming.. flirtatious and cruel all in the one package and had me honestly questioning myself but when does romantasy males not? he’ll piss you off and make you fall for him all in the one..
It’s the perfect blend of enemies to lovers.. love triangles.. secrets.. deception.. magic… trials.. deadly trials and grief all packed into one.. I honestly do recommend you read if you’re a romantasy person.. even if you’re not a parent (like myself) you can really enjoy born from the broken and feel all the emotions that Elira is feeling it’s that well written!! (Let me add the Trials were added in after the arc was released and it was the best thing to do and I’m so glad I held off on reading more until those trials were added or really tied the story together!)
I was in a book slump for the past couple months of the new year and hunkering down and reading the ARC brought me out of it, I was that captivated.. and sucked into the story..
it’s an emotional rollercoaster that will scar you but you will love it and still want more with the twists and the cliffhanger!! It honestly gave me an escape to a different place which is what I look for in romantasy and fantasy books, that they help me escape and BFTB did exactly that!
I want to thank Julieanna for allowing me to be apart of her ARC team (it was my first time doing something like this) and reading the Advance reader copy of born from the broken, it’s been an honour and I’ve loved every part of it and I cannot wait to read the second book!! I honestly don’t think my review can do her book justice so you’ll need to read it and see how good it is because it is!! and I wish I could rate higher than 5 stars because to me it’s a 10 star
💫 Older FMC
💫 Morally Gray MMC
💫 Enemies to Lovers
💫 Found Family
💫 Deadly Trials
💫 Heartache
💫 Betrayal
💫 Unique Magic System
💫 immersive world building
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating ⭐️ 6 out of 5
Rating a book a 6 is not an easy hand out, but this truly deserves a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I finished ARC reading this book and needed to sit with my thoughts before writing this, because I wanted to do this incredible story the justice it deserves.
I haven’t read a book in a long time that moved me through so many emotions. By the end, the devastation I felt, the turmoil… I’ll try not to include spoilers.
From very early on, I knew I wanted to devour every single word. And I did. I took my time with it.
Elira is our FMC, and watching her character develop was powerful. The anger she carries is so raw. Her time during the trials truly shaped who she is, and I felt like I understood her, why she is the way she is. And nope, definitely not a whiny FMC.
Sorin… “Hello little lynx”… oof. He was so many things, the banter, the confidence, the tenderness, the control 😉 I was left wanting much, much more of him.
Kairis, solid and grounded. And how can I not mention Serah, I loved her character. Everything she’s been through, yet that underlying determination.
Chapter by chapter, I couldn’t decide whose team I was on. One minute I was firmly Team Sorin, the next I was completely Team Kairis. I found myself groaning and saying “WHY?!” more times than I can count, but it all came together so brilliantly. The slow burn… ohhhhhh the slow burnnnnnn 🔥🔥
This book has so much to offer, depth, history, banter, yearning spice, emotional intelligence. The struggles Elira endures, every emotion she feels, and even what Serah feels, I could imagine so vividly. I was so immersed in this world that when I reached the end, I was SHOCKED. I literally flipped back and forth thinking, “wait… WHAAAAAAAAAT????!! THIS CANNOT BE THE END!!!”
And yet… it was. Every time I thought I had the story figured out, I realised I absolutely did not.
This is a book that will stay with me for a long time. Julieanna Mac is a fantastic author, open to feedback and clearly trusting her instincts. Thank you for including the trials, I honestly can’t imagine this book without them.
I love long, detailed books. Stories where you become so lost you forget everything else around you. This was exactly that.
Thank you, Julieanna Mac, for letting me be part of your ARC team. This is an incredible piece of work. And please… where is the next book? ❤️
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating a book a 6 is not an easy hand out, but this truly deserves a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I finished ARC reading this book and needed to sit with my thoughts before writing this, because I wanted to do this incredible story the justice it deserves.
I haven’t read a book in a long time that moved me through so many emotions. By the end, the devastation I felt, the turmoil… I’ll try not to include spoilers.
From very early on, I knew I wanted to devour every single word. And I did. I took my time with it.
Elira is our FMC, and watching her character develop was powerful. The anger she carries is so raw. Her time during the trials truly shaped who she is, and I felt like I understood her, why she is the way she is. And nope, definitely not a whiny FMC.
Sorin… “Hello little lynx”… oof. He was so many things, the banter, the confidence, the tenderness, the control 😉 I was left wanting much, much more of him.
Kairis, solid and grounded. And how can I not mention Serah, I loved her character. Everything she’s been through, yet that underlying determination.
Chapter by chapter, I couldn’t decide whose team I was on. One minute I was firmly Team Sorin, the next I was completely Team Kairis. I found myself groaning and saying “WHY?!” more times than I can count, but it all came together so brilliantly. The slow burn… ohhhhhh the slow burnnnnnn 🔥🔥
This book has so much to offer, depth, history, banter, yearning spice, emotional intelligence. The struggles Elira endures, every emotion she feels, and even what Serah feels, I could imagine so vividly. I was so immersed in this world that when I reached the end, I was SHOCKED. I literally flipped back and forth thinking, “wait… WHAAAAAAAAAT????!! THIS CANNOT BE THE END!!!”
And yet… it was. Every time I thought I had the story figured out, I realised I absolutely did not.
This is a book that will stay with me for a long time. Julieanna Mac is a fantastic author, open to feedback and clearly trusting her instincts. Thank you for including the trials, I honestly can’t imagine this book without them.
I love long, detailed books. Stories where you become so lost you forget everything else around you. This was exactly that.
Thank you, Julieanna Mac, for letting me be part of your ARC team. This is an incredible piece of work. And please… where is the next book? ❤️
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a jaw dropping ending! I never saw these turn of events coming 😳
It's heartbreaking really 😭 The end of the book left me screaming.....desperately waiting for Book 2!!
This book has everything you need and much more.....Fantasy, Romance, Magic, Action, Deadly trials, Yearning, Loss, Revenge etc.
I never expected this story to be a Love triangle but guess what even I'm surprised 😳
Oh how it feels to be loved by both men & they fight each other just to have a moment with you 🤭
I loved every second of it! Their jealousy is top notch 🤣
The plot is engaging with high stakes, irresistible chemistry, conflict & emotional investment 🔥
The pace is slow giving every detail about the characters & surroundings
The main context of the book around which it revolves is ~
'He raised her children, Now he wants her'
So Elira is a single mother who lost her children to the deal made in quadrant trials by her ignorant husband which led her to take part in the trials herself on the condition of getting her children back. She is determined to find her children & get them back 🔥
Elira is portrayed as a 30 yr old single mother who is strong, smart, beautiful & feisty! Love her energy & determination!!
Sorin is portrayed as a heartless dictator who rules everyone & 12 Vasharas by carefully harvesting & siphoning the magic with an intention to prevent war & oppression! Though he is ruthless it turns out that he has a huge heart which he opens up to his loved ones (Elira & her children). He's a great father & tries his best to be a great husband to Elira! Though I hate him a little (you'll know when you read the book 😉)
Killian, GOSH Killian, i swear he's the besttttttttt character amongst all. Love him 😭😭😭😭❤️ Bruhhhhhh! Elira, forget Sorin just bag Killian instead (HE'S THE MAN OF OUR DREAMS!!)
He's caring, appreciative, flirty, polite, has a great sense of humor, stands up for you, knows what he's doing!
Tropes:
Hidden identity
Deadly trials
Unique magic
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC
Love triangle
Widowed FMC in 30s
Single mom
Fiesty FMC
Yearning
Slow burn
Intense chemistry
Enemies to lovers to emotional destruction
Twisted ending
Double crossing
Found family
Thankyou Author Julieanna for giving me this Beautiful ARC 😍❤️
It's heartbreaking really 😭 The end of the book left me screaming.....desperately waiting for Book 2!!
This book has everything you need and much more.....Fantasy, Romance, Magic, Action, Deadly trials, Yearning, Loss, Revenge etc.
I never expected this story to be a Love triangle but guess what even I'm surprised 😳
Oh how it feels to be loved by both men & they fight each other just to have a moment with you 🤭
I loved every second of it! Their jealousy is top notch 🤣
The plot is engaging with high stakes, irresistible chemistry, conflict & emotional investment 🔥
The pace is slow giving every detail about the characters & surroundings
The main context of the book around which it revolves is ~
'He raised her children, Now he wants her'
So Elira is a single mother who lost her children to the deal made in quadrant trials by her ignorant husband which led her to take part in the trials herself on the condition of getting her children back. She is determined to find her children & get them back 🔥
Elira is portrayed as a 30 yr old single mother who is strong, smart, beautiful & feisty! Love her energy & determination!!
Sorin is portrayed as a heartless dictator who rules everyone & 12 Vasharas by carefully harvesting & siphoning the magic with an intention to prevent war & oppression! Though he is ruthless it turns out that he has a huge heart which he opens up to his loved ones (Elira & her children). He's a great father & tries his best to be a great husband to Elira! Though I hate him a little (you'll know when you read the book 😉)
Killian, GOSH Killian, i swear he's the besttttttttt character amongst all. Love him 😭😭😭😭❤️ Bruhhhhhh! Elira, forget Sorin just bag Killian instead (HE'S THE MAN OF OUR DREAMS!!)
He's caring, appreciative, flirty, polite, has a great sense of humor, stands up for you, knows what he's doing!
Tropes:
Hidden identity
Deadly trials
Unique magic
Forced proximity
Morally gray MMC
Love triangle
Widowed FMC in 30s
Single mom
Fiesty FMC
Yearning
Slow burn
Intense chemistry
Enemies to lovers to emotional destruction
Twisted ending
Double crossing
Found family
Thankyou Author Julieanna for giving me this Beautiful ARC 😍❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Julieanna for allowing me an advance copy of Born from the Broken. I will try to keep this spoiler free.
This book had my emotions everywhere. I love when a story can do that. The most prominent emotion I felt was frustration which is not entirely bad, but not entirely good either. Definitely something powerful.
Let me start with what I loved. The plot was amazing. There is a tournament filled with trials, shifting alliances, and unexpected friendships. The action was exciting, but it was the bonds formed during the trials that truly stood out to me. This was my favorite part. I found myself invested in so many of the characters. With most of them being middle aged and carrying heavy trauma, there was a depth and maturity to their arcs that added to their every interaction.
The world building was easy to grasp, never overwhelming, and woven naturally into the narrative. The magic system was intriguing, and the twisty, layered plot kept me turning pages. Every new reveal about the characters’ pasts made the story even more addictive.
Now for the romance. This is where my emotions went a little crazy and where most of my frustration came from. At first, it seemed like a love triangle. I’m still not entirely sure if that’s what it was, but in my opinion, it never should’ve been one. There was a very clear “winner,” and the fact that the heroine, who I genuinely respected and saw as strong, allowed herself to feel anything for the other man drove me absolutely nuts. Yes, there’s a sort of magical connection that might explain some of it, but it didn’t feel like enough to justify her reactions. I understand her trauma, but the number of times she leaned on the idea that “her body betrayed her” made me lose a bit of respect for her choices.
By the end, I’m still not sure where anyone stands romantically, but honestly, none of that outweighs how fantastic the story itself is. And that ending was a little diabolical. Cruel, even. The kind of cliffhanger that makes you want to scream, but in a good way. Especially knowing this was an ARC and now I have to wait even longer for book two.
This book had my emotions everywhere. I love when a story can do that. The most prominent emotion I felt was frustration which is not entirely bad, but not entirely good either. Definitely something powerful.
Let me start with what I loved. The plot was amazing. There is a tournament filled with trials, shifting alliances, and unexpected friendships. The action was exciting, but it was the bonds formed during the trials that truly stood out to me. This was my favorite part. I found myself invested in so many of the characters. With most of them being middle aged and carrying heavy trauma, there was a depth and maturity to their arcs that added to their every interaction.
The world building was easy to grasp, never overwhelming, and woven naturally into the narrative. The magic system was intriguing, and the twisty, layered plot kept me turning pages. Every new reveal about the characters’ pasts made the story even more addictive.
Now for the romance. This is where my emotions went a little crazy and where most of my frustration came from. At first, it seemed like a love triangle. I’m still not entirely sure if that’s what it was, but in my opinion, it never should’ve been one. There was a very clear “winner,” and the fact that the heroine, who I genuinely respected and saw as strong, allowed herself to feel anything for the other man drove me absolutely nuts. Yes, there’s a sort of magical connection that might explain some of it, but it didn’t feel like enough to justify her reactions. I understand her trauma, but the number of times she leaned on the idea that “her body betrayed her” made me lose a bit of respect for her choices.
By the end, I’m still not sure where anyone stands romantically, but honestly, none of that outweighs how fantastic the story itself is. And that ending was a little diabolical. Cruel, even. The kind of cliffhanger that makes you want to scream, but in a good way. Especially knowing this was an ARC and now I have to wait even longer for book two.
March 29, 2026
✨Strong FMC
✨Deadly trials
✨Political unrest/corruption
✨Forced proximity
✨Hidden identity
✨Betrayal
✨Morraly Grey MMC
✨Love Triangle
Julieanna has created a really original magic system that’s deeply tied to emotion, pain, memory, power and politics. It’s such an intriguing concept, and even by the end of the book I felt like we had only scratched the surface. While that mystery adds to the intrigue, I did find myself wishing for a bit more clarity around how it all actually works.
The opening trials were a really interesting idea and definitely gave off Hunger Games vibes. They worked well as a way to introduce the main characters…or so I thought. I would have loved to understand more about them. What exactly you have to sacrifice to enter? What happens when you win or lose? How magic is captured, transferred, used?
The characters were one of the strongest parts of the book for me. They were easy to connect with and all lovable in their own way, each with their own complexities and emotional backstories. I really appreciated how their pasts shaped who they are when we meet them. The multiple POVs added so much depth and made it easier to bond with each of them.
I especially loved the moral grey area surrounding one of the MMCs. It genuinely had me questioning where my loyalties lay. I’m still not entirely sure which side I’m on! And with two MMCs, it definitely gave that classic love triangle tension where you feel torn between both sides.
The ending completely threw me. It was a huge twist, but instead of feeling shocked in a satisfying way, I was more confused. I found myself going back to reread parts thinking I’d missed something, but still felt a bit in the dark. Book 2 has a lot of explaining to do!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters, emotional depth, and originality of the plot really stood out. However, I did feel like some key information was missing, and at times the story jumped between scenes without much transition. It left me feeling like I’m still piecing together parts of the world and its rules, but I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue the series and see how everything unfolds.
✨Deadly trials
✨Political unrest/corruption
✨Forced proximity
✨Hidden identity
✨Betrayal
✨Morraly Grey MMC
✨Love Triangle
Julieanna has created a really original magic system that’s deeply tied to emotion, pain, memory, power and politics. It’s such an intriguing concept, and even by the end of the book I felt like we had only scratched the surface. While that mystery adds to the intrigue, I did find myself wishing for a bit more clarity around how it all actually works.
The opening trials were a really interesting idea and definitely gave off Hunger Games vibes. They worked well as a way to introduce the main characters…or so I thought. I would have loved to understand more about them. What exactly you have to sacrifice to enter? What happens when you win or lose? How magic is captured, transferred, used?
The characters were one of the strongest parts of the book for me. They were easy to connect with and all lovable in their own way, each with their own complexities and emotional backstories. I really appreciated how their pasts shaped who they are when we meet them. The multiple POVs added so much depth and made it easier to bond with each of them.
I especially loved the moral grey area surrounding one of the MMCs. It genuinely had me questioning where my loyalties lay. I’m still not entirely sure which side I’m on! And with two MMCs, it definitely gave that classic love triangle tension where you feel torn between both sides.
The ending completely threw me. It was a huge twist, but instead of feeling shocked in a satisfying way, I was more confused. I found myself going back to reread parts thinking I’d missed something, but still felt a bit in the dark. Book 2 has a lot of explaining to do!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters, emotional depth, and originality of the plot really stood out. However, I did feel like some key information was missing, and at times the story jumped between scenes without much transition. It left me feeling like I’m still piecing together parts of the world and its rules, but I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue the series and see how everything unfolds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Born From the Broken by Julieanna MacPherson is a sophisticated addition to the Romantasy genre, distinguishing itself through its raw emotional depth and unconventional protagonist. In this high-stakes debut, MacPherson delivers a dark and addictive narrative centered on Elira, a mother fighting to reclaim her children five years after the devastating "Trials." Moving away from standard genre tropes, the story excels in its characterization by featuring an older female lead whose strength is rooted in experience and maternal instinct rather than youthful bravado. Elira’s journey is defined by a "mother’s fury"—a visceral, driving force that makes her survival and sacrifices deeply relatable to the reader.
The narrative is structured like an intricate chess match, utilizing a multi-POV format to weave a complex web of espionage, betrayal, and shifting loyalties. This structure allows for a balanced exploration of a tense love triangle involving two compelling male leads, including Sorin, the ruler of Osteria. Sorin serves as the epitome of a morally grey character, whose protective nature is balanced by rare flashes of genuine vulnerability and significant emotional development. MacPherson’s world-building is notably unique, offering a fresh magic system that avoids the predictable rhythms of traditional fantasy and creates a world that feels both distinct and lived-in.
Ultimately, Born From the Broken is an unflinchingly gritty portrayal of grief and the lengths a parent will go to for their family. MacPherson skillfully handles themes of raw loss and political intrigue, culminating in a jaw-dropping conclusion that sets the stage for a grand-scale conflict. This debut marks the start of a trilogy that promises to be as seductive as it is devastating, making it a must-read for those who prefer their fantasy with a side of intellectual intrigue and emotional grit. Given the intense and visceral nature of the themes explored, please read the trigger warnings before starting this book.
The narrative is structured like an intricate chess match, utilizing a multi-POV format to weave a complex web of espionage, betrayal, and shifting loyalties. This structure allows for a balanced exploration of a tense love triangle involving two compelling male leads, including Sorin, the ruler of Osteria. Sorin serves as the epitome of a morally grey character, whose protective nature is balanced by rare flashes of genuine vulnerability and significant emotional development. MacPherson’s world-building is notably unique, offering a fresh magic system that avoids the predictable rhythms of traditional fantasy and creates a world that feels both distinct and lived-in.
Ultimately, Born From the Broken is an unflinchingly gritty portrayal of grief and the lengths a parent will go to for their family. MacPherson skillfully handles themes of raw loss and political intrigue, culminating in a jaw-dropping conclusion that sets the stage for a grand-scale conflict. This debut marks the start of a trilogy that promises to be as seductive as it is devastating, making it a must-read for those who prefer their fantasy with a side of intellectual intrigue and emotional grit. Given the intense and visceral nature of the themes explored, please read the trigger warnings before starting this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC Review ✨
Born from the Broken completely shattered my heart in the best way possible. 💔📖
From the very first pages, the story drops you straight into grief that feels almost too real. Elira’s pain isn’t softened or brushed aside — it’s raw, relentless, and deeply human. Reading her journey felt less like observing from the outside and more like walking beside her through every heartbreaking moment. 🥀
The emotional weight of this book is intense. Elira’s sorrow is written so vividly that you can almost feel the heaviness in your chest while reading. Yet despite everything she loses, she refuses to stop fighting. Her determination, even when the world seems determined to break her, makes her an incredibly powerful character to follow. ✨
And the world around her? It’s brutal.
Magic in this story isn’t just something wondrous — it’s something that can be stolen, manipulated, and weaponized. ⚔️ The political system is filled with corruption and cruelty, forcing Elira to survive in a society that feels stacked against her at every turn. Every choice she makes carries consequences, and the stakes never stop rising.
Tropes you’ll find inside:
✨ Stolen magic
🗡️ Betrayal
🔥 Forced proximity
🏹 Deadly trials
By the time I reached the final pages, I was emotionally wrecked. The tension builds relentlessly and the ending leaves you staring at the last page in disbelief. That cliffhanger? Absolutely cruel in the best way. 😭📚
If you love fantasy stories that explore grief, sacrifice, and morally complex characters, Born from the Broken delivers a powerful and emotional ride that will stay with you long after you finish the book.
A huge thank you to Julieanna Mac for the amazing opportunity to read this ARC. I’m incredibly grateful to have experienced Elira’s story early. It was emotional, gripping, and unforgettable — and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next. Thank you for trusting readers with this journey! ✨📖
Born from the Broken completely shattered my heart in the best way possible. 💔📖
From the very first pages, the story drops you straight into grief that feels almost too real. Elira’s pain isn’t softened or brushed aside — it’s raw, relentless, and deeply human. Reading her journey felt less like observing from the outside and more like walking beside her through every heartbreaking moment. 🥀
The emotional weight of this book is intense. Elira’s sorrow is written so vividly that you can almost feel the heaviness in your chest while reading. Yet despite everything she loses, she refuses to stop fighting. Her determination, even when the world seems determined to break her, makes her an incredibly powerful character to follow. ✨
And the world around her? It’s brutal.
Magic in this story isn’t just something wondrous — it’s something that can be stolen, manipulated, and weaponized. ⚔️ The political system is filled with corruption and cruelty, forcing Elira to survive in a society that feels stacked against her at every turn. Every choice she makes carries consequences, and the stakes never stop rising.
Tropes you’ll find inside:
✨ Stolen magic
🗡️ Betrayal
🔥 Forced proximity
🏹 Deadly trials
By the time I reached the final pages, I was emotionally wrecked. The tension builds relentlessly and the ending leaves you staring at the last page in disbelief. That cliffhanger? Absolutely cruel in the best way. 😭📚
If you love fantasy stories that explore grief, sacrifice, and morally complex characters, Born from the Broken delivers a powerful and emotional ride that will stay with you long after you finish the book.
A huge thank you to Julieanna Mac for the amazing opportunity to read this ARC. I’m incredibly grateful to have experienced Elira’s story early. It was emotional, gripping, and unforgettable — and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next. Thank you for trusting readers with this journey! ✨📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
A Devastating, Unforgettable Masterpiece
Born from the broken throws you into the brutal world of Dariana, where magic is currency, power is stolen, and survival is a gamble. Elira, a woman hardened by loss and fueled by vengeance, enters the Quadrant Trials. The trials are a deadly competition ruled Sorin. She enters the trails not just to win, but to burn the system that destroyed her family to the ground. Six years ago her husband walked into the same trails believing he could cheat fate. We can all guess what happened to him.
But... the trials are more than a test, they’re a harvest, a machine designed to break people down and feed on their desperation. As Elira navigates alliances, illusions, and the ghosts of her past, she’s forced to confront not just her enemies, but the fractured parts of herself she’s spent years burying.
This book was a beautifully written story. It was dark and brutal and had a ton of emotional depth. It was devastating to see what Elira needs to navigate and overcome. Her pain felt so very real, it was like you felt every scar, moment of hesitation or burst of defiance.
I loved how the trials were written. There was so much detail woven into it. It felt like the trials were a metaphor for systemic oppression. Not sure if Julieanna mend it that way, but I think it is beautiful how it can be interpreted like that. Without giving away spoilers... that first trail, the trial of perception, mind blowing.
This book is not just about survival, no... it is about what you're willing to destroy to reclaim what was stolen.
The book ends in a cliffhanger so good! It leaves the road open for the next book in this series. I know where I will be waiting for.
A Devastating, Unforgettable Masterpiece
Born from the broken throws you into the brutal world of Dariana, where magic is currency, power is stolen, and survival is a gamble. Elira, a woman hardened by loss and fueled by vengeance, enters the Quadrant Trials. The trials are a deadly competition ruled Sorin. She enters the trails not just to win, but to burn the system that destroyed her family to the ground. Six years ago her husband walked into the same trails believing he could cheat fate. We can all guess what happened to him.
But... the trials are more than a test, they’re a harvest, a machine designed to break people down and feed on their desperation. As Elira navigates alliances, illusions, and the ghosts of her past, she’s forced to confront not just her enemies, but the fractured parts of herself she’s spent years burying.
This book was a beautifully written story. It was dark and brutal and had a ton of emotional depth. It was devastating to see what Elira needs to navigate and overcome. Her pain felt so very real, it was like you felt every scar, moment of hesitation or burst of defiance.
I loved how the trials were written. There was so much detail woven into it. It felt like the trials were a metaphor for systemic oppression. Not sure if Julieanna mend it that way, but I think it is beautiful how it can be interpreted like that. Without giving away spoilers... that first trail, the trial of perception, mind blowing.
This book is not just about survival, no... it is about what you're willing to destroy to reclaim what was stolen.
The book ends in a cliffhanger so good! It leaves the road open for the next book in this series. I know where I will be waiting for.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Born from the Broken is a heart wrenching story that had me in tears throughout. The moment we enter the trials alongside Elira, we’re immediately swept into the action! Upon meeting both Kairis and Varyn/Sorin, I didn’t know who I was rooting for (and neither did Elira!).
The trials were interesting and action packed. The tension was high and carried a real sense of danger. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat. Each trial was fast paced, and the story moved quickly without ever leaving me feeling like I was missing something.
Julieanna has a real talent for writing the (anti?) villain, making me love him and despise him while never excusing his “bad guy” actions. Sorin is a man who broke my heart. His emotions, his character, his reasoning. All of it made me shed a tear for what he’s lost and continues to lose. He truly is a flawed character, and you can clearly see where the cracks in his humanity originated.
Kairis, on the other hand, felt almost too human. He felt so deeply, and you could almost see the pain and heartbreak he carried. Through his actions and gentleness with Elira and Serah, he showed he is the opposite of his large and intimidating appearance when in the company of those he cares about, making him equally terrifying to anyone who would seek to harm them.
The side characters were also easy to connect with, and I found myself wanting to know more. *cough* Killian *cough*.
As a mother myself, hearing Elira’s heartbreak over and over as the chapters unfolded was devastating. Julieanna wrote Elira’s thoughts and emotions spectacularly, and it felt incredibly real, making the impact of the climax all the heavier and more crushing.
Born from the Broken was fantastic, and if you love romantasy, two strong and pining MMCs peppered with spice, great world building, and a story that will have you bathing in a puddle of your own tears, you’ve found the perfect book!
I am incredibly grateful for this ARC, thank you Julieanna, you have created something magical!
The trials were interesting and action packed. The tension was high and carried a real sense of danger. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat. Each trial was fast paced, and the story moved quickly without ever leaving me feeling like I was missing something.
Julieanna has a real talent for writing the (anti?) villain, making me love him and despise him while never excusing his “bad guy” actions. Sorin is a man who broke my heart. His emotions, his character, his reasoning. All of it made me shed a tear for what he’s lost and continues to lose. He truly is a flawed character, and you can clearly see where the cracks in his humanity originated.
Kairis, on the other hand, felt almost too human. He felt so deeply, and you could almost see the pain and heartbreak he carried. Through his actions and gentleness with Elira and Serah, he showed he is the opposite of his large and intimidating appearance when in the company of those he cares about, making him equally terrifying to anyone who would seek to harm them.
The side characters were also easy to connect with, and I found myself wanting to know more. *cough* Killian *cough*.
As a mother myself, hearing Elira’s heartbreak over and over as the chapters unfolded was devastating. Julieanna wrote Elira’s thoughts and emotions spectacularly, and it felt incredibly real, making the impact of the climax all the heavier and more crushing.
Born from the Broken was fantastic, and if you love romantasy, two strong and pining MMCs peppered with spice, great world building, and a story that will have you bathing in a puddle of your own tears, you’ve found the perfect book!
I am incredibly grateful for this ARC, thank you Julieanna, you have created something magical!
April 5, 2026
Where do I start with this book? Yes it has betrayal, revenge and deadly trial but it is so much more then just another book about trials. The fast pace of them didn't just keep the contestants on their toes but as a reader it had you questioning who, if anyone, could be trusted. But that was only the start of this story and the rest of the book, after the trials ended,felt like we were still playing the same twisted games. But can you believe that the trials almost didn't make into the final book? I am so grateful that it did, as it set up the rest of the book beautifully. It set the tone for the rest of the book with dangerous court politics once Elira is caught in her gilded cage that is Sorin's palace. Without them it would have felt like we were missing half the story, especially when it came to the love triangle that will have you wrapped up and pulled in different directions. Like Elira, I was torn between the Sorin and Kairis, especially the further on in the book I read. The two are such polar opposites with their own motives, but there is always something about a morally grey man who would burn the world for you.
Elira herself, blinded by grief, pain and desperation, she would do anything to get her children back after her only chance of winning the trials was also torn away. Her character's greif is so raw and gritty throughout the book, that you can feel deep in your own chest as it rolls off her in waves. You can't help but hope for her to finally reunite with her children one way or another. Then there is the heart stopping final moments of this tragic romantasy that will leave you shocked and begging for the next book!
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in return for a honest opinion.
Elira herself, blinded by grief, pain and desperation, she would do anything to get her children back after her only chance of winning the trials was also torn away. Her character's greif is so raw and gritty throughout the book, that you can feel deep in your own chest as it rolls off her in waves. You can't help but hope for her to finally reunite with her children one way or another. Then there is the heart stopping final moments of this tragic romantasy that will leave you shocked and begging for the next book!
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in return for a honest opinion.
March 16, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Wow! This book is completely compelling and gripping from the start!!
We follow the story or Elira, who five years ago lost everything, now she enters a trial in order to get her children back. There is no fury or determination greater than that of a mother fighting for her children. The FMC is older than the usual go to but it gives the edge of living a life of turmoil and tragedy. She’s strong, caring and willing to sacrifice everything for her children.
The trials give are similar to hunger games with a couple MCs who give a love triangle vibes but who do you trust when everyone has something to hide.
Sorin you want to forgive in so many ways, he’s caring and protective but also very possessive and will get wha he wants by any means or manipulation necessary. I really want to love him so hope that he can be trusted.
Kairis entered the trials, won and has a loyalty that he can’t break. No I think we are supposed to swoon over him and he has the protector thing going from the offset but I feel there’s something about him we are yet to realise.
The plot in this book was super fast paced, captivating and heartbreakingly devastating. The emotional journey you go through is no joke and the world building is enough to draw you in. The whole thing is like a constant chess match where the player is about two moves ahead and the ending was the perfect check mate. I love how different the magic system works in this world and not like one you come to expect. The side characters brought more depth and I want more of Kilian! Overall great book with and ending that leaves you eager for the next.
Wow! This book is completely compelling and gripping from the start!!
We follow the story or Elira, who five years ago lost everything, now she enters a trial in order to get her children back. There is no fury or determination greater than that of a mother fighting for her children. The FMC is older than the usual go to but it gives the edge of living a life of turmoil and tragedy. She’s strong, caring and willing to sacrifice everything for her children.
The trials give are similar to hunger games with a couple MCs who give a love triangle vibes but who do you trust when everyone has something to hide.
Sorin you want to forgive in so many ways, he’s caring and protective but also very possessive and will get wha he wants by any means or manipulation necessary. I really want to love him so hope that he can be trusted.
Kairis entered the trials, won and has a loyalty that he can’t break. No I think we are supposed to swoon over him and he has the protector thing going from the offset but I feel there’s something about him we are yet to realise.
The plot in this book was super fast paced, captivating and heartbreakingly devastating. The emotional journey you go through is no joke and the world building is enough to draw you in. The whole thing is like a constant chess match where the player is about two moves ahead and the ending was the perfect check mate. I love how different the magic system works in this world and not like one you come to expect. The side characters brought more depth and I want more of Kilian! Overall great book with and ending that leaves you eager for the next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book completely swept me away. From the very first chapter, it delivers an intense blend of emotional stakes, political intrigue, and fantasy elements that never feel predictable.
At the heart of the story is Elira, a mother pushed into brutal trials to reclaim her taken children. When things don’t go as planned, the narrative deepens rather than derails. We follow her through grief, determination, and the impossible choices forced on her by a corrupt, biased, and deeply flawed political system. Elira is written with so many layers ; fierce, vulnerable, relatable, and impossible not to root for. Her love for her children becomes the emotional anchor of the entire book.
Then there’s Sorin, the morally grey ruler whose presence instantly complicates everything. He’s frustrating, compelling, and impossible to ignore. The dynamic between him and Elira is full of tension sometimes tender, sometimes sharp and their interactions add a charged depth to the story without overshadowing the plot.
The worldbuilding is equally engaging. There are threads of espionage, betrayal, magic, and power plays happening behind the scenes, and you’re never given all the answers at once. It feels like a careful chess match, where motives are rarely clear and every choice comes with consequences. This unpredictability keeps the book gripping from start to finish.
By the time I reached the ending, I was fully emotionally invested and that cliffhanger is brutal in the best possible way. It left me stunned and immediately desperate for book two.
This is an exceptional series opener: rich in character, heavy with stakes, and full of momentum. I truly cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
At the heart of the story is Elira, a mother pushed into brutal trials to reclaim her taken children. When things don’t go as planned, the narrative deepens rather than derails. We follow her through grief, determination, and the impossible choices forced on her by a corrupt, biased, and deeply flawed political system. Elira is written with so many layers ; fierce, vulnerable, relatable, and impossible not to root for. Her love for her children becomes the emotional anchor of the entire book.
Then there’s Sorin, the morally grey ruler whose presence instantly complicates everything. He’s frustrating, compelling, and impossible to ignore. The dynamic between him and Elira is full of tension sometimes tender, sometimes sharp and their interactions add a charged depth to the story without overshadowing the plot.
The worldbuilding is equally engaging. There are threads of espionage, betrayal, magic, and power plays happening behind the scenes, and you’re never given all the answers at once. It feels like a careful chess match, where motives are rarely clear and every choice comes with consequences. This unpredictability keeps the book gripping from start to finish.
By the time I reached the ending, I was fully emotionally invested and that cliffhanger is brutal in the best possible way. It left me stunned and immediately desperate for book two.
This is an exceptional series opener: rich in character, heavy with stakes, and full of momentum. I truly cannot wait to see where the story goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Julieanna Mac for the e-ARC of her debut novel, Born from the Broken (Expected: April 1, 2026).
This multi-POV Romantasy follows Elira and two MMCs, Sorin and Kairis. We meet Elira in the aftermath of "The Trials," trapped with Sorin, the ruler of Osteria, as she bargains for the children taken from her five years prior.
💖What I Loved
It is refreshing to see a Romantasy featuring an FMC over 30. Elira’s maturity shapes her trauma, her decisions, and her fierce maternal drive. Mac uses internal monologue effectively to convey Elira's grief, while the shifting perspectives of Sorin and Kairis hint at a deeper mystery. The political intrigue adds a compelling layer that I hope to see expanded upon in the trilogy.
📝The Gentle Nitpick
Starting after the Trials occasionally felt like being dropped into the middle of a story, as if there were a prequel missing to explain our starting point. While this confusion is a stylistic choice reflecting the characters' memory loss, it initially made it harder to connect emotionally with the world. I would have loved more immediate depth regarding the rebellion’s motivations and the specific costs and rules of the magic system.
🍵Final Verdict
I am intrigued by this world. While the narrative begins answering deeper questions around the 60% mark, I’m looking forward to Book 2 to uncover the truth behind the Trials and the history between Elira and Sorin. The ending features a twist that definitely leaves you wanting more. I'm excited to see how this world expands!
This multi-POV Romantasy follows Elira and two MMCs, Sorin and Kairis. We meet Elira in the aftermath of "The Trials," trapped with Sorin, the ruler of Osteria, as she bargains for the children taken from her five years prior.
💖What I Loved
It is refreshing to see a Romantasy featuring an FMC over 30. Elira’s maturity shapes her trauma, her decisions, and her fierce maternal drive. Mac uses internal monologue effectively to convey Elira's grief, while the shifting perspectives of Sorin and Kairis hint at a deeper mystery. The political intrigue adds a compelling layer that I hope to see expanded upon in the trilogy.
📝The Gentle Nitpick
Starting after the Trials occasionally felt like being dropped into the middle of a story, as if there were a prequel missing to explain our starting point. While this confusion is a stylistic choice reflecting the characters' memory loss, it initially made it harder to connect emotionally with the world. I would have loved more immediate depth regarding the rebellion’s motivations and the specific costs and rules of the magic system.
🍵Final Verdict
I am intrigued by this world. While the narrative begins answering deeper questions around the 60% mark, I’m looking forward to Book 2 to uncover the truth behind the Trials and the history between Elira and Sorin. The ending features a twist that definitely leaves you wanting more. I'm excited to see how this world expands!
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