What do you think?
Rate this book
Ballad of the Broken
Not yet published
Expected 24 Oct 26The kingdoms are dying…
And the price to save them will shatter Lyra's heart.
Dragged into the Seven Hells, Lyra is forced to marry the fallen god who betrayed her. But he is no ordinary captor, and in the Hells, nothing is as it seems.
Bound to a past she cannot remember, Lyra will do anything to find a cure for the curse consuming the Commander of Death. Even if it means surrendering herself to the very god who stole her.
Across the ocean, the Commander of Death is running out of time. Their bond torments him, forcing him to feel Lyra falling for another while the curse rots him from within. Determined to hold her one last time before death claims him, he sails the Dead Sea in search of the only woman he has ever loved.
Caught between the monster made to kill her and the fallen god who refuses to let her go, Lyra must choose between saving the kingdoms and saving the men who have claimed her heart.
Because the throne demands more than blood…
It demands heartbreak.
And the price to save them will shatter Lyra's heart.
Dragged into the Seven Hells, Lyra is forced to marry the fallen god who betrayed her. But he is no ordinary captor, and in the Hells, nothing is as it seems.
Bound to a past she cannot remember, Lyra will do anything to find a cure for the curse consuming the Commander of Death. Even if it means surrendering herself to the very god who stole her.
Across the ocean, the Commander of Death is running out of time. Their bond torments him, forcing him to feel Lyra falling for another while the curse rots him from within. Determined to hold her one last time before death claims him, he sails the Dead Sea in search of the only woman he has ever loved.
Caught between the monster made to kill her and the fallen god who refuses to let her go, Lyra must choose between saving the kingdoms and saving the men who have claimed her heart.
Because the throne demands more than blood…
It demands heartbreak.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 24, 2026
About the author
Nakita Kirwan
2 books72 followersHi, I’m Nakita. I love creating dark worlds filled with romance that hurts.
I am a mum of four, emergency nurse, and the author behind stories that will make you feel seen.
I write about broken girls who become powerful, men who would destroy the world for them, and love that will make you kick your feet at 2am.
If you love enemies to lovers, fated mates, tension, and just enough chaos that will keep you up at night… Step into the dark with me. I am so glad that you are here.
I am a mum of four, emergency nurse, and the author behind stories that will make you feel seen.
I write about broken girls who become powerful, men who would destroy the world for them, and love that will make you kick your feet at 2am.
If you love enemies to lovers, fated mates, tension, and just enough chaos that will keep you up at night… Step into the dark with me. I am so glad that you are here.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
"The melodies of the damned have become a ballad of the broken" indeed. My heart.
If you enjoyed book 1, Melodies of the Damned, then you'll for sure want to pick this up to see how this emotional, intense and spicy duet ends.
🖤Morally Grey
🌊Enemies to Lovers
🖤Captor x Captive
🌊Cursed Oceans
🖤Forced Proximity
🌊Sirens
🖤Dual POV
🌊Fated Mates
🖤Why Choose
🌶Spicy
"A choice must be made..."
"Would you blame a storm for following the wind?"
A captivating story of love, sacrifice and survival this story keeps you on the edge of your seat for this entire sequel. You start right where book 1 left off and Nakita's writing style will have you turning page after page long after you should be asleep. She knows just how to unravel her story, just which information to let loose and when. A lot happens in the last 25% so hold on to your heart because you're in for a deliciously spicy, emotional ride.
"The grief had hollowed me out so completely that even fear could no longer find a place to live. "
Thank you @nakita.writes.romantasy and @hawthorne.and.aster.services for the advanced read of this incredible debut duet.
As with any content, please check your own triggers prior to consuming.
##BalladoftheBroken #hawthorneandaster #fantasy #romantasy #darkfantasy
If you enjoyed book 1, Melodies of the Damned, then you'll for sure want to pick this up to see how this emotional, intense and spicy duet ends.
🖤Morally Grey
🌊Enemies to Lovers
🖤Captor x Captive
🌊Cursed Oceans
🖤Forced Proximity
🌊Sirens
🖤Dual POV
🌊Fated Mates
🖤Why Choose
🌶Spicy
"A choice must be made..."
"Would you blame a storm for following the wind?"
A captivating story of love, sacrifice and survival this story keeps you on the edge of your seat for this entire sequel. You start right where book 1 left off and Nakita's writing style will have you turning page after page long after you should be asleep. She knows just how to unravel her story, just which information to let loose and when. A lot happens in the last 25% so hold on to your heart because you're in for a deliciously spicy, emotional ride.
"The grief had hollowed me out so completely that even fear could no longer find a place to live. "
Thank you @nakita.writes.romantasy and @hawthorne.and.aster.services for the advanced read of this incredible debut duet.
As with any content, please check your own triggers prior to consuming.
##BalladoftheBroken #hawthorneandaster #fantasy #romantasy #darkfantasy
Review of advance copy
It was devastating, it was beautiful, it was BEAUTIFULLY DEVASTATING.
This was everything I didnt know I needed in a dark and twisted romantasy.
Book 2 picks up right where we left Lyra in book 1. There is multiple POVs in this book so we get to see and experience the broken world and what all our MCs doing to try fix it through their perspectives.
We have Gods, Monsters, Sirens and Fae. A FMC who will do ANYTHING for those she loves, consequences be damned.
Nakita takes us on an EPIC journey of how THIS world broke and the people trying to fix it. The last 15% of this book is so beautifully written I COULD NOT put it down. I laughed, I cried, I had my flabbers gahsted. It may not have ended how I wanted but it was done well and what happens when we ignore said consequences. EPIC, EPIC dark duology.
Please check your triggers as there is alot of darkness in this book, it's what in my opinion makes it so beautifully devastatingly written. Thank you Hawthorne and Aster for this ARC copy.
This was everything I didnt know I needed in a dark and twisted romantasy.
Book 2 picks up right where we left Lyra in book 1. There is multiple POVs in this book so we get to see and experience the broken world and what all our MCs doing to try fix it through their perspectives.
We have Gods, Monsters, Sirens and Fae. A FMC who will do ANYTHING for those she loves, consequences be damned.
Nakita takes us on an EPIC journey of how THIS world broke and the people trying to fix it. The last 15% of this book is so beautifully written I COULD NOT put it down. I laughed, I cried, I had my flabbers gahsted. It may not have ended how I wanted but it was done well and what happens when we ignore said consequences. EPIC, EPIC dark duology.
Please check your triggers as there is alot of darkness in this book, it's what in my opinion makes it so beautifully devastatingly written. Thank you Hawthorne and Aster for this ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness, what a book.
I knew this was going to be heartbreaking, I knew it, and I still went in full of hope.
I loved the conclusion, loved how all the parts came together. I'm not sure if I was meant to fall in Helion, but boy did I. He is wrong in all the best ways, but by the end, I was just smitten with him.
Book 2 really focused on the consequences of the things our characters did for love, it's not your typical "burn the world down for them", in this story, if you burn the world down for love, then there are always repercussions for your actions. It is a beautiful and tragic love story, equal amounts epic and devastating.
I cannot recommend this duet enough, it will stay with me for a long time.
I knew this was going to be heartbreaking, I knew it, and I still went in full of hope.
I loved the conclusion, loved how all the parts came together. I'm not sure if I was meant to fall in Helion, but boy did I. He is wrong in all the best ways, but by the end, I was just smitten with him.
Book 2 really focused on the consequences of the things our characters did for love, it's not your typical "burn the world down for them", in this story, if you burn the world down for love, then there are always repercussions for your actions. It is a beautiful and tragic love story, equal amounts epic and devastating.
I cannot recommend this duet enough, it will stay with me for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALL THE STARS.
EVERY. LAST. ONE.
Book one left me adrift on a sea of sadness, but THIS? Broken indeed. 😭
The ugly crying I cried. Absolutely NOT cute. No grace. No dignity. Just emotional devastation in its purest form.
Thrown straight back into the events where book one left us, this story is awash in grief, impossible choices, and heartbreak.
My heart is STILL broken, and somehow, despite every tear, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything.
I genuinely don't know how to do this book justice without giving too much away, so I'll simply say this:
The writing is melodic and haunting, the story is heartbreakingly beautiful, and Nakita has written something that will stay with me long after the final page.
Nakita, thank you for such a poignant, soul crushingly beautiful story. You've officially got me ready to read absolutely anything you write.
EVERY. LAST. ONE.
Book one left me adrift on a sea of sadness, but THIS? Broken indeed. 😭
The ugly crying I cried. Absolutely NOT cute. No grace. No dignity. Just emotional devastation in its purest form.
Thrown straight back into the events where book one left us, this story is awash in grief, impossible choices, and heartbreak.
My heart is STILL broken, and somehow, despite every tear, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything.
I genuinely don't know how to do this book justice without giving too much away, so I'll simply say this:
The writing is melodic and haunting, the story is heartbreakingly beautiful, and Nakita has written something that will stay with me long after the final page.
Nakita, thank you for such a poignant, soul crushingly beautiful story. You've officially got me ready to read absolutely anything you write.
October 13, 2026
Spoil Free Reviews
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @nakita.writes.romantasy
POV: Multi 1st person
Gene: Romantasy
Triggers: Descriptive torture, captivity, forced marriage, manipulation, dubious consent, why choose (MFM), SA - in the past, grief, etc.
Read Time: 8 - 11 hours
Expected Publishing Date: October 24, 2026
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❤️ World Building: The world building was phenomenal! While in the last book we were in the one world, the story mostly takes place in “hell” and we got a good glimpse of the Nether. As you would imagine, these are darker places than the last book.
❤️ The Characters: How could you NOT love our trio? Helion was simply adorable in his roguish ways. I’m a sucker for a smirk! Rythos, oh Rythos, does he have to be so perfect? And then our heroine Lyra, stuck in the middle between the two. The feelings were so real to me, the pain, the grief, the love, all of it! They are written with such heart, you can really tell the author put their whole self into writing them.
❤️ The Story: The story was an absolute masterpiece, a Pièce de résistance if you will. I’m sad that the story has ended, but OH what a story it was! This one will be staying with me for a long long time.
❤️🔥Overall: If you love Romantasy, you just NEED to read this duology. If you like to listen to your books, these were just picked up for an audiobook deal! The first book is currently on KU, but for a limited time.
🦭Selkie fact Inspired by Selk: Some say that the origins of the selkie myth actually stem from Scottish and Irish ancient peoples coming into contact with Finnish and/or Sami travellers who were thought to be selkies for their use of sealskin coats and kayaks. As they became waterlogged, the boats would start to submerge, and so the Sami traveller would be required to stop and dry their sealskin clothing and boats out before continuing onwards. Take their “fishtails” away from them, and it’s true enough that the “selkie” cannot return to the sea. (source: https://www.wildernessireland.com/blo...)
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @nakita.writes.romantasy
POV: Multi 1st person
Gene: Romantasy
Triggers: Descriptive torture, captivity, forced marriage, manipulation, dubious consent, why choose (MFM), SA - in the past, grief, etc.
Read Time: 8 - 11 hours
Expected Publishing Date: October 24, 2026
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❤️ World Building: The world building was phenomenal! While in the last book we were in the one world, the story mostly takes place in “hell” and we got a good glimpse of the Nether. As you would imagine, these are darker places than the last book.
❤️ The Characters: How could you NOT love our trio? Helion was simply adorable in his roguish ways. I’m a sucker for a smirk! Rythos, oh Rythos, does he have to be so perfect? And then our heroine Lyra, stuck in the middle between the two. The feelings were so real to me, the pain, the grief, the love, all of it! They are written with such heart, you can really tell the author put their whole self into writing them.
❤️ The Story: The story was an absolute masterpiece, a Pièce de résistance if you will. I’m sad that the story has ended, but OH what a story it was! This one will be staying with me for a long long time.
❤️🔥Overall: If you love Romantasy, you just NEED to read this duology. If you like to listen to your books, these were just picked up for an audiobook deal! The first book is currently on KU, but for a limited time.
🦭Selkie fact Inspired by Selk: Some say that the origins of the selkie myth actually stem from Scottish and Irish ancient peoples coming into contact with Finnish and/or Sami travellers who were thought to be selkies for their use of sealskin coats and kayaks. As they became waterlogged, the boats would start to submerge, and so the Sami traveller would be required to stop and dry their sealskin clothing and boats out before continuing onwards. Take their “fishtails” away from them, and it’s true enough that the “selkie” cannot return to the sea. (source: https://www.wildernessireland.com/blo...)
October 10, 2026
“Despite being the monster made to kill me, my soul ached to return to his side as if that was where I belonged.”
✨ Morally grey
✨ Why choose & Fated mates
✨ Epic worldbuilding
✨ Spicy 🔥🔥
This was a HIGHLY anticipated sequel for me, and it definitely delivered. Heartbreakingly beautiful, with complicated relationships, incredible worldbuilding and some very nice spice. I was so excited to return to this world, and it did not disappoint.
“I would marry him, though, I would be widowed the moment I had what I wanted.”
The romance growing between Lyra and Helion was something I really enjoyed. There’s so much going on beneath the surface of their relationship, and watching Lyra’s feelings develop when she’s still so deeply tied to someone else made everything that much more complicated.
“I was too broken to be worshipped. Too ruined to be admired. Too monstrous to be loved.”
And then there’s Rythos, who’s still searching for Lyra and loving her despite everything. Knowing what he’s going through while their bond lets him feel her falling for someone else adds another layer to their story. He’s running out of time, and that desperation to find her again really adds to the heartbreak.
“The day you fell in love with the Commander, I discovered that hearts don’t stop when they are broken. They simply learn to bleed forever.”
The mythology and worldbuilding were another huge highlight. I loved the depth of this world and how the story weaves together the gods, the curse and the fate of the kingdoms while keeping the characters and their relationships at the heart of it all.
“I was a princess who had died beneath the weight of expectation. A girl too sharp, too strange, too unhinged to fit inside the mould of perfection they had carved for me.”
Overall, this was a beautiful sequel that lived up to the anticipation. The relationships, the mythology, the worldbuilding, the heartbreak and the spice all came together so well. Definitely one that left me glad I picked it up! 🔥
Chaos, vibes and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
✨ Morally grey
✨ Why choose & Fated mates
✨ Epic worldbuilding
✨ Spicy 🔥🔥
This was a HIGHLY anticipated sequel for me, and it definitely delivered. Heartbreakingly beautiful, with complicated relationships, incredible worldbuilding and some very nice spice. I was so excited to return to this world, and it did not disappoint.
“I would marry him, though, I would be widowed the moment I had what I wanted.”
The romance growing between Lyra and Helion was something I really enjoyed. There’s so much going on beneath the surface of their relationship, and watching Lyra’s feelings develop when she’s still so deeply tied to someone else made everything that much more complicated.
“I was too broken to be worshipped. Too ruined to be admired. Too monstrous to be loved.”
And then there’s Rythos, who’s still searching for Lyra and loving her despite everything. Knowing what he’s going through while their bond lets him feel her falling for someone else adds another layer to their story. He’s running out of time, and that desperation to find her again really adds to the heartbreak.
“The day you fell in love with the Commander, I discovered that hearts don’t stop when they are broken. They simply learn to bleed forever.”
The mythology and worldbuilding were another huge highlight. I loved the depth of this world and how the story weaves together the gods, the curse and the fate of the kingdoms while keeping the characters and their relationships at the heart of it all.
“I was a princess who had died beneath the weight of expectation. A girl too sharp, too strange, too unhinged to fit inside the mould of perfection they had carved for me.”
Overall, this was a beautiful sequel that lived up to the anticipation. The relationships, the mythology, the worldbuilding, the heartbreak and the spice all came together so well. Definitely one that left me glad I picked it up! 🔥
Chaos, vibes and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nakita Kirwan, you did it again! I LOVED your first book, so naturally, I didn’t even hesitate to sign up for this ARC… and I’m SO happy I did!
Small disclaimer: I’m not a big fan of why-choose romances or books with two main love interests, regardless of the form they take. However, that didn’t stop me from enjoying Ballad of the Broken! Since it’s simply a matter of personal preference, I would never rate a book lower just because of this. And if you’re anything like me, please don’t let this put you off reading it, because this book will give you SO much and make you feel so many emotions. It definitely deserves a spot on your TBR!
There’s so much to highlight about this book!
First of all, the FMC, Lyra! She’s so strong and admirable. I loved her in the first book, and I love her even more in this one! Watching her deal with her trauma while growing into a badass woman was just so beautiful.
And the two MMCs…
I had a love-hate relationship with Helion in this book. Sometimes, he was an asshole, but I can forgive him because he’s hot and so cocky. He really grew on me by the end of the book!
But Rythos… Holy shadow-wielding gods, that man is PERFECTION! A man who’s been cursed to unalive his one and only love and is still strong enough to withstand it?! 10/10, without a doubt! The way he yearned for her, supported his woman, and protected his friends… He made me fall even harder for him than I did in the first book!
The story was once again incredibly entertaining and exciting. I loved the trials! I loved the side characters and how everything came together in the end. Nakita once again proved how good she is at playing with my emotions. The way she portrayed trauma and healing was so beautifully done!
And the ending?! It was NOTHING like I expected, and it absolutely destroyed me emotionally. 😭❤️
Small disclaimer: I’m not a big fan of why-choose romances or books with two main love interests, regardless of the form they take. However, that didn’t stop me from enjoying Ballad of the Broken! Since it’s simply a matter of personal preference, I would never rate a book lower just because of this. And if you’re anything like me, please don’t let this put you off reading it, because this book will give you SO much and make you feel so many emotions. It definitely deserves a spot on your TBR!
There’s so much to highlight about this book!
First of all, the FMC, Lyra! She’s so strong and admirable. I loved her in the first book, and I love her even more in this one! Watching her deal with her trauma while growing into a badass woman was just so beautiful.
And the two MMCs…
I had a love-hate relationship with Helion in this book. Sometimes, he was an asshole, but I can forgive him because he’s hot and so cocky. He really grew on me by the end of the book!
But Rythos… Holy shadow-wielding gods, that man is PERFECTION! A man who’s been cursed to unalive his one and only love and is still strong enough to withstand it?! 10/10, without a doubt! The way he yearned for her, supported his woman, and protected his friends… He made me fall even harder for him than I did in the first book!
The story was once again incredibly entertaining and exciting. I loved the trials! I loved the side characters and how everything came together in the end. Nakita once again proved how good she is at playing with my emotions. The way she portrayed trauma and healing was so beautifully done!
And the ending?! It was NOTHING like I expected, and it absolutely destroyed me emotionally. 😭❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ SIX STARS!!!!
Thanks to Nakita Kirwan and Hawthorn & Aster for providing this ARC!
This book picks up right where the first one left off, and what a ride it is!
Lyra is with Helion, while Rythos desperately searches for her. The world surrounding them remains dark, eerie, and haunting. Lyra and Helion find themselves in the realm of the God of the Seven Hells, where they are forced to participate in his wicked games for his entertainment. Everyone seems to hold secrets about Lyra and her past, and she must learn to manipulate those around her to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, the feelings between Lyra and Helion are becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. Despite hating him, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to him, and that tension? Absolutely delicious.
Lyra grows so much in this book! We get to see her become stronger while also witnessing her insecurities surrounding what truly happened when the Throne of the Gods was destroyed. The uncertainty surrounding her past and how it continues to affect her adds another layer to her character that I absolutely loved.
And Helion… this man is EVERYTHING in this book! The sexy smirk, the swagger, the confidence. I was completely sold. And Rythos? We get to see so many more sides of him, both his harder and softer sides, as well as the depth of his unwavering love for Lyra. My heart couldn’t handle it!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat, and the pages practically flew by. The plot is phenomenal, and Nakita Kirwan knows exactly how to keep you hooked while slowly revealing more of the secrets woven into this dark, haunting world.
An ending that left me emotionally wrecked and still wanting more.
Nakita Kirwan has created an utterly addictive world, and this series is absolutely top-tier. Six stars, without a doubt. 🖤
Thanks to Nakita Kirwan and Hawthorn & Aster for providing this ARC!
This book picks up right where the first one left off, and what a ride it is!
Lyra is with Helion, while Rythos desperately searches for her. The world surrounding them remains dark, eerie, and haunting. Lyra and Helion find themselves in the realm of the God of the Seven Hells, where they are forced to participate in his wicked games for his entertainment. Everyone seems to hold secrets about Lyra and her past, and she must learn to manipulate those around her to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, the feelings between Lyra and Helion are becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. Despite hating him, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to him, and that tension? Absolutely delicious.
Lyra grows so much in this book! We get to see her become stronger while also witnessing her insecurities surrounding what truly happened when the Throne of the Gods was destroyed. The uncertainty surrounding her past and how it continues to affect her adds another layer to her character that I absolutely loved.
And Helion… this man is EVERYTHING in this book! The sexy smirk, the swagger, the confidence. I was completely sold. And Rythos? We get to see so many more sides of him, both his harder and softer sides, as well as the depth of his unwavering love for Lyra. My heart couldn’t handle it!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat, and the pages practically flew by. The plot is phenomenal, and Nakita Kirwan knows exactly how to keep you hooked while slowly revealing more of the secrets woven into this dark, haunting world.
An ending that left me emotionally wrecked and still wanting more.
Nakita Kirwan has created an utterly addictive world, and this series is absolutely top-tier. Six stars, without a doubt. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thanks for the ARC read Hawthorn & Aster!
I DEVOURED this book. Like I know it says it took me 3 days, but like 80% was done in one day.
This book had me feeling so many things. Excited, aroused, devastated, happy, anger.
Getting into the nitty gritty.... (spoilers)
I wasn't crazy about the multiple POVs, I enjoyed the first book being all from Lyra's perspective. I understand why this one needed it, due to being separated, but It still broke some of the magic the first one had.
Lyra was wonderful as always. Strong, fighting back and fighting for what she wants. Not being the broken little princess she was at the beginning of book 1 and becoming the strong goddess she truly is. I wish we had delved more into what she did with Cerilla other than the brief mentionings.
HELION. Literally give me this man on a silver platter. He's hot, he's bratty, he's kinky. Like I am here for it all. He loves her, he's forgiven her, he's done so much to make things right and help her. I loved their banter, their slow burn, when they finally consummated that marriage, YES.
Rythos was still pretty mid for me. Am I devastated at his ending, absolutely. My soul was breaking from the second she decided to sacrifice herself all through the ending. And his real backstory was wonderful and made so much sense. He's just never been a particularly strong character for me. His softness with Lyra never really felt like it fit him.
This book was an amazing continuation of the first book and such a great ending to the duology. I'm both devastated and thrilled that there wasn't really a HEA. Because life doesn't always work out.
I DEVOURED this book. Like I know it says it took me 3 days, but like 80% was done in one day.
This book had me feeling so many things. Excited, aroused, devastated, happy, anger.
Getting into the nitty gritty.... (spoilers)
I wasn't crazy about the multiple POVs, I enjoyed the first book being all from Lyra's perspective. I understand why this one needed it, due to being separated, but It still broke some of the magic the first one had.
Lyra was wonderful as always. Strong, fighting back and fighting for what she wants. Not being the broken little princess she was at the beginning of book 1 and becoming the strong goddess she truly is. I wish we had delved more into what she did with Cerilla other than the brief mentionings.
HELION. Literally give me this man on a silver platter. He's hot, he's bratty, he's kinky. Like I am here for it all. He loves her, he's forgiven her, he's done so much to make things right and help her. I loved their banter, their slow burn, when they finally consummated that marriage, YES.
Rythos was still pretty mid for me. Am I devastated at his ending, absolutely. My soul was breaking from the second she decided to sacrifice herself all through the ending. And his real backstory was wonderful and made so much sense. He's just never been a particularly strong character for me. His softness with Lyra never really felt like it fit him.
This book was an amazing continuation of the first book and such a great ending to the duology. I'm both devastated and thrilled that there wasn't really a HEA. Because life doesn't always work out.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Review of advance copy received from Hawthorn & Aster
https://www.hawthornandaster.com/
Ballad of the Broken
An Emotional and Heartbreaking Conclusion
I really enjoyed Ballad of the Broken, but I wasn't prepared for how emotional the final chapters would be. I found myself tearful as the story unfolded, particularly because I had become so invested in Lyra, Rhythos, and Helion. The story picks up where the first book left off, providing some much-needed answers about the characters’ past lives, their relationships, and the consequences of decisions made over a thousand years ago.
I particularly appreciated the character development of the three main characters. Their relationships evolved in ways I hadn't anticipated, and I enjoyed seeing how love, forgiveness, acceptance, and sacrifice influenced their choices. The revelations about their shared history added another layer of complexity to the story, and the author did a wonderful job exploring the emotional consequences of their actions.
Although I understood the significance of the ending and appreciated how the storylines came together, I couldn't help wishing for a different outcome. I had grown attached to these characters and hoped they would finally find the happiness they deserved.
Overall, this was a beautiful emotional story that left me heartbroken. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, even if the ending wasn't quite what I had hoped for.
https://www.hawthornandaster.com/
Ballad of the Broken
An Emotional and Heartbreaking Conclusion
I really enjoyed Ballad of the Broken, but I wasn't prepared for how emotional the final chapters would be. I found myself tearful as the story unfolded, particularly because I had become so invested in Lyra, Rhythos, and Helion. The story picks up where the first book left off, providing some much-needed answers about the characters’ past lives, their relationships, and the consequences of decisions made over a thousand years ago.
I particularly appreciated the character development of the three main characters. Their relationships evolved in ways I hadn't anticipated, and I enjoyed seeing how love, forgiveness, acceptance, and sacrifice influenced their choices. The revelations about their shared history added another layer of complexity to the story, and the author did a wonderful job exploring the emotional consequences of their actions.
Although I understood the significance of the ending and appreciated how the storylines came together, I couldn't help wishing for a different outcome. I had grown attached to these characters and hoped they would finally find the happiness they deserved.
Overall, this was a beautiful emotional story that left me heartbroken. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, even if the ending wasn't quite what I had hoped for.
Review of advance copy
Received this ARC from Hawthorn & Aster and was so grateful for it because Melodies of the Damned left me begging for more. After completing Ballad of the Broken this is what I have to say:
This whole duology really took me by surprise. I thought Melodies of the Damned was really well done, but even with those elevated expectations nothing could have prepared me for how beautifully Kirwan landed this sequel. She absolutely nailed it! Overall, I'd describe this duology as a (very) dark iteration of the Little Mermaid meets The Witcher meets the chaos of Greek mythology. The raw, visceral way Lyra's journey is captured, the plot twists and sub plots that bolster the intensity of the reading experience, the urgency brought into the story line by the Commander of Death, and the devastating, heart breaking loyalty of Helion had me in an absolute chokehold the entire time. Truly so very impressed by this author and I cannot wait to read more from her. Aaaand now it's time to go hydrate because the tears this author pulled from my body aren't going to replenish themselves.
This whole duology really took me by surprise. I thought Melodies of the Damned was really well done, but even with those elevated expectations nothing could have prepared me for how beautifully Kirwan landed this sequel. She absolutely nailed it! Overall, I'd describe this duology as a (very) dark iteration of the Little Mermaid meets The Witcher meets the chaos of Greek mythology. The raw, visceral way Lyra's journey is captured, the plot twists and sub plots that bolster the intensity of the reading experience, the urgency brought into the story line by the Commander of Death, and the devastating, heart breaking loyalty of Helion had me in an absolute chokehold the entire time. Truly so very impressed by this author and I cannot wait to read more from her. Aaaand now it's time to go hydrate because the tears this author pulled from my body aren't going to replenish themselves.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive this ARC via Hawthorn & Aster.
This book picks up straight were book 1 ends, I was still reeling from the plot twist from book 1 - Riven was the bad guy?! And Cirella oh that witch!!!
I truly love the way Nakita weaves her stories, the layers upon layers of lore, world building and character development. I love the imagery she paints with her words. I was right there inside the pages with the characters.
I enjoyed the hate to love story between Lyra and Helion, the ever loving passion of a dying monster and his little drowning and of course the all consuming world destroying love of gods, goddesses and mortals that this story
The spice levels up for me in this story and I am all for it!
There were moments where I giggle aloud and sobbed woefully, this duology will forever have a pride of place in my heart and on my bookshelf.
This book picks up straight were book 1 ends, I was still reeling from the plot twist from book 1 - Riven was the bad guy?! And Cirella oh that witch!!!
I truly love the way Nakita weaves her stories, the layers upon layers of lore, world building and character development. I love the imagery she paints with her words. I was right there inside the pages with the characters.
I enjoyed the hate to love story between Lyra and Helion, the ever loving passion of a dying monster and his little drowning and of course the all consuming world destroying love of gods, goddesses and mortals that this story
The spice levels up for me in this story and I am all for it!
There were moments where I giggle aloud and sobbed woefully, this duology will forever have a pride of place in my heart and on my bookshelf.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ballad of the Broken is a dark fantasy romance intended for an 18+ audience. The Content warnings should be taken into account before reading.
What to expect
🌊 Morally Grey
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🌊 Spice
🖤 Captor Romance
🌊 Forced Proximity
🖤 Cursed Oceans
🌊 Dual POV
🖤 Fated Mates
🌊 Why Choose (MMF)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice included
Thoughts
Thank you to HAWTHORN & ASTER for this ARC.
After I finished this I was left lying on my bed, completely speechless, and with nothing but my thoughts to reflect on. I was laying there asking, how do I review a book when I don’t know what to say?
“Sometimes the most delicate things are the most lethal.”
Let me try, This was a beautifully chaotic, Broken love story! I think you should definitely read it but Please check the content warnings as some things maybe not be for all readers.
I legitimately have no more words!
“Would you blame a storm for following the wind?”
Thank you Nakita! The Duet Was told in a beautifully broken but great way!
What to expect
🌊 Morally Grey
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🌊 Spice
🖤 Captor Romance
🌊 Forced Proximity
🖤 Cursed Oceans
🌊 Dual POV
🖤 Fated Mates
🌊 Why Choose (MMF)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice included
Thoughts
Thank you to HAWTHORN & ASTER for this ARC.
After I finished this I was left lying on my bed, completely speechless, and with nothing but my thoughts to reflect on. I was laying there asking, how do I review a book when I don’t know what to say?
“Sometimes the most delicate things are the most lethal.”
Let me try, This was a beautifully chaotic, Broken love story! I think you should definitely read it but Please check the content warnings as some things maybe not be for all readers.
I legitimately have no more words!
“Would you blame a storm for following the wind?”
Thank you Nakita! The Duet Was told in a beautifully broken but great way!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Dark fantasy romance isn’t typically my genre, but I’m really glad I gave this series a chance! I started with Melodies of the Damned, and I definitely recommend reading the books in order. The first ends on a cliffhanger, and I think knowing the characters and their relationships makes this one so much more meaningful.
What stood out to me most was the writing. I could easily picture the world and everything happening around the characters. As someone who enjoys D&D and fantasy video games, I especially loved the fantasy elements. I was constantly curious about what would happen next, and it was definitely a page-turner!
It’s a beautiful but tragic love story with some spice. I don’t typically read spicy romance, but those scenes felt natural and helped me better understand the relationships rather than feeling unnecessary.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am glad I stepped outside my usual reading preferences!
Thank you to Hawthorn & Aster for providing an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
What stood out to me most was the writing. I could easily picture the world and everything happening around the characters. As someone who enjoys D&D and fantasy video games, I especially loved the fantasy elements. I was constantly curious about what would happen next, and it was definitely a page-turner!
It’s a beautiful but tragic love story with some spice. I don’t typically read spicy romance, but those scenes felt natural and helped me better understand the relationships rather than feeling unnecessary.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am glad I stepped outside my usual reading preferences!
Thank you to Hawthorn & Aster for providing an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced readers copy received from author
What a beautifully tragic tale. Nakita Kirwan has once again created a story so consuming and immersive that I'm not sure where the characters' emotions end and mine begin. Did I accidentally bond these men too? 🥵🥵 Holy moly......but in all seriousness, my husband thanks you 😘 😂
Thank you to Hawthorne & Aster as well for marketing this ARC so I was lucky enough to find it and apply. 😊
What a beautifully tragic tale. Nakita Kirwan has once again created a story so consuming and immersive that I'm not sure where the characters' emotions end and mine begin. Did I accidentally bond these men too? 🥵🥵 Holy moly......but in all seriousness, my husband thanks you 😘 😂
Thank you to Hawthorne & Aster as well for marketing this ARC so I was lucky enough to find it and apply. 😊
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Ballad of the Broken, words and review are my own.
Ballad of the Broken was my favourite of the duology, the pacing was great. My heart will forever be with our Monster, he stole the show in this book with his rawness and desperation to save Lyra and find some sembalance of peace. His exhaustion, devotion and at times devastation were heart-felt. I loved the relationships with Solas and Aldric - he became much more human in this book. The grief was real - tears in my eye Nakita.
I found the dynamic between Lyra & Helion conflicting, well it left me conflicted, I would have loved to explore their back-story a bit more to put it into context - maybe we need a novella!
The ending...what can I say. Heartfelt, devastating, inevitable...parts of it were expected but others...nope did not expect that.
Well done.
Please read the trigger warnings, this duology is very dark and some themes may make you uncomfortable.
Ballad of the Broken was my favourite of the duology, the pacing was great. My heart will forever be with our Monster, he stole the show in this book with his rawness and desperation to save Lyra and find some sembalance of peace. His exhaustion, devotion and at times devastation were heart-felt. I loved the relationships with Solas and Aldric - he became much more human in this book. The grief was real - tears in my eye Nakita.
I found the dynamic between Lyra & Helion conflicting, well it left me conflicted, I would have loved to explore their back-story a bit more to put it into context - maybe we need a novella!
The ending...what can I say. Heartfelt, devastating, inevitable...parts of it were expected but others...nope did not expect that.
Well done.
Please read the trigger warnings, this duology is very dark and some themes may make you uncomfortable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first book of the year that shared every emotion and made me want to scream, cry and laugh. I love a good book that makes me feel them all and Hawthorn & Aster supporting this story and putting it out in the world I am grateful for. I was lucky to be able to read this duo without having to wait and thankfully you don’t have much longer either as it is hitting the shelves the 24th of this month! Thank you Nakita for allowing us this amazing story with so many twists and turns. It is bound to make you feel something.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Totally invested. Ballad of the Broken picked up perfectly from the 1st book of the Duology Melodies of the Damned. I loved the different pov perspective. The Author has this amazing ability to drop crumbs for just one more chapter and she did it again. Once again she immersed me into another world. A roller coaster of emotions. Times where I laughed and omg I cried. Spicey, saucy and savage. Totally recommend 👌 👍 👏
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My heart! Nakita, whyyy!?
I got the pleasure of ARC reading Melodies of the Damned and could not wait for Ballad of the Broken. It did not disappoint. I finished it in less than 24hrs.
It was funny, spicy, sweet, and heartbreaking in the best way. I do feel like it was a bit rushed at the end. I wish there was more of the FMC and MMC at the end. (trying to keep this spoiler free)
I got the pleasure of ARC reading Melodies of the Damned and could not wait for Ballad of the Broken. It did not disappoint. I finished it in less than 24hrs.
It was funny, spicy, sweet, and heartbreaking in the best way. I do feel like it was a bit rushed at the end. I wish there was more of the FMC and MMC at the end. (trying to keep this spoiler free)
Review of advance copy received from Author
"But I didn’t care, I would have lived another thousand years on those words alone. I was a god who had once held the sun in his hands, and still, nothing had ever felt as powerful as being loved by her."
Thank you to Nakita Kirwan for giving me the opportunity to receive an advanced copy of Ballad of the Broken, the final book in her Crown of Gods and Monsters duology. I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily. WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD.
Ballad of the Broken concludes the Shakespearean-esque tale of Lyra, a reincarnated sea goddess, and the two men who love her: a mortal turned fae named Rythos and the god of gods, Helion/Riven, as they race against the clock to save the world... and each other.
It's Immediately evident that Kirwan has stepped it up in her second book, both in the breadth of her storyline and the strength of her writing.
The cat and mouse game between Lyra and Helion in the Hells is full of delicious emotional and sexual tension. It's just as agonising for the reader as it is for Lyra as she slowly warms to Helion, culminating in a scintillating "why choose?" storyline.
What's interesting about this is the way Kirwan frames it: Lyra, as a strong, independent woman, refusing to choose between the two men who've captured her heart, which places the burden of compromise on the males, rather than the other way around.
What I enjoyed most about the book was following Lyra as she slowly comes to terms with the fact that, although she always thought she was broken, she's actually a monster who damned the world for love. While this shocked me at first, I loved her unapologetic role as the perhaps the real villian of the story.
The last few chapters of the book hit me squarely in the gut, and left me sobbing uncontrollably. By avoiding overly-complex descriptions or wordy sentences, Kirwan lets the devastation of the storyline, and the end of this book, speak for itself. Also refreshing in this regard was the lack of a forced HEA, though I won't say more... That's for you to read!
If you've ever wondered what a dark adaptation of The Little Mermaid would be like – if Eric was a morally grey shadow daddy who had an equally hot rival – then you'll devour this book. Here's to more unapologetically villianous female main characters!
Thank you to Nakita Kirwan for giving me the opportunity to receive an advanced copy of Ballad of the Broken, the final book in her Crown of Gods and Monsters duology. I'm leaving an honest review voluntarily. WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD.
Ballad of the Broken concludes the Shakespearean-esque tale of Lyra, a reincarnated sea goddess, and the two men who love her: a mortal turned fae named Rythos and the god of gods, Helion/Riven, as they race against the clock to save the world... and each other.
It's Immediately evident that Kirwan has stepped it up in her second book, both in the breadth of her storyline and the strength of her writing.
The cat and mouse game between Lyra and Helion in the Hells is full of delicious emotional and sexual tension. It's just as agonising for the reader as it is for Lyra as she slowly warms to Helion, culminating in a scintillating "why choose?" storyline.
What's interesting about this is the way Kirwan frames it: Lyra, as a strong, independent woman, refusing to choose between the two men who've captured her heart, which places the burden of compromise on the males, rather than the other way around.
What I enjoyed most about the book was following Lyra as she slowly comes to terms with the fact that, although she always thought she was broken, she's actually a monster who damned the world for love. While this shocked me at first, I loved her unapologetic role as the perhaps the real villian of the story.
The last few chapters of the book hit me squarely in the gut, and left me sobbing uncontrollably. By avoiding overly-complex descriptions or wordy sentences, Kirwan lets the devastation of the storyline, and the end of this book, speak for itself. Also refreshing in this regard was the lack of a forced HEA, though I won't say more... That's for you to read!
If you've ever wondered what a dark adaptation of The Little Mermaid would be like – if Eric was a morally grey shadow daddy who had an equally hot rival – then you'll devour this book. Here's to more unapologetically villianous female main characters!
Review of advance copy
✒️ Author: Nakita Kirwan
🧬 Genre: Dark fantasy romance
🗓️ Release date: October 24th
📚 Series: Crowns of Gods and Monsters, Book 2
⚠️ 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶.
Rating: 💀💀💀💀🦴
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Emotional damage: 🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅
Thank you to Hawthorn and Aster for providing me with an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of this book. I truly appreciate the opportunity to read it early. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Melodies of the Damned (Book 1) is my favorite book of 2026 so far, so of course I had to request this ARC as soon as I came across it! Ballad of the Broken is the second book in the Crowns of Gods and Monsters series. And the final book in this duet.
🌊 Dead sea
🔥 Seven Hells
☠️ Curse
💔 Grief
🖤 Why choose?
We pick up right where Melodies of the Damned left off. Lyra is kidnapped during her wedding and taken to the Seven Hells. Rythos will stop at nothing to get her back. But Rythos is slowly dying. Can he reach Lyra before it’s too late?
Are you ready to have your heart shattered?
This duet has no happy ending. It’s a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of love and loss. This book is impossible to put down, so be prepared for what you’re getting yourself into.
Ballad of the Broken is a gripping story that had me holding my breath until the very end. To me, this duet is hauntingly beautiful. If you enjoy reading about sirens, monsters and the power of the sea, and you're not afraid to shed (a few) tears, I can highly recommend this duet.
"I needed her the way a drowning man needs air - instinctively, desperately, and without thought for the cost."
🧜🏻♀️
🧬 Genre: Dark fantasy romance
🗓️ Release date: October 24th
📚 Series: Crowns of Gods and Monsters, Book 2
⚠️ 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶.
Rating: 💀💀💀💀🦴
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Emotional damage: 🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅
Thank you to Hawthorn and Aster for providing me with an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of this book. I truly appreciate the opportunity to read it early. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Melodies of the Damned (Book 1) is my favorite book of 2026 so far, so of course I had to request this ARC as soon as I came across it! Ballad of the Broken is the second book in the Crowns of Gods and Monsters series. And the final book in this duet.
🌊 Dead sea
🔥 Seven Hells
☠️ Curse
💔 Grief
🖤 Why choose?
We pick up right where Melodies of the Damned left off. Lyra is kidnapped during her wedding and taken to the Seven Hells. Rythos will stop at nothing to get her back. But Rythos is slowly dying. Can he reach Lyra before it’s too late?
Are you ready to have your heart shattered?
This duet has no happy ending. It’s a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of love and loss. This book is impossible to put down, so be prepared for what you’re getting yourself into.
Ballad of the Broken is a gripping story that had me holding my breath until the very end. To me, this duet is hauntingly beautiful. If you enjoy reading about sirens, monsters and the power of the sea, and you're not afraid to shed (a few) tears, I can highly recommend this duet.
"I needed her the way a drowning man needs air - instinctively, desperately, and without thought for the cost."
🧜🏻♀️
October 5, 2026
Thank you to Hawthorn & Aster for an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I absolutely adored the first book and was so excited to dive right into this. For me, I felt like it lost some of the magic of the first book. I still loved the world and the magic system however I wasn’t as invested in this as I wanted to be. I wasn’t a huge fan of the fact that our FMC was forced into things that she wanted no part of. I did know going into this that there was dubious consent but I only thought that was related to the spicy scenes. But when we got to the why choose part of the story I was totally back in it. The ending was heartbreaking in the best way. It felt like that was how everything was supposed to happen. I would still definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a dark fantasy romance that will take you on an emotional ride.
I absolutely adored the first book and was so excited to dive right into this. For me, I felt like it lost some of the magic of the first book. I still loved the world and the magic system however I wasn’t as invested in this as I wanted to be. I wasn’t a huge fan of the fact that our FMC was forced into things that she wanted no part of. I did know going into this that there was dubious consent but I only thought that was related to the spicy scenes. But when we got to the why choose part of the story I was totally back in it. The ending was heartbreaking in the best way. It felt like that was how everything was supposed to happen. I would still definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a dark fantasy romance that will take you on an emotional ride.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*completes the duology and stares at the wall* The way that I cried during the last few chapters of this book.... oh my god! This book took me on an absolute rollercoaster of emotion and I cannot wait for more people to read it. Lyra is a fierce goddess who doesn't take shit from really anyone. Now trapped in hell with her ex (who's also a god), she's faced with trials that she must compete in for the other gods entertainment. (very much giving hunger games vibes). Throughout this entire journey, Lyra doesn't have any of her memories from her past lives. But she's forced to endure the consequences of her actions that she doesn't even remember doing. This is an absolute must read. I promise you wont be able to predict that ending.
Read
October 12, 2026What to say about this book…uhm WOW!! It picks up right where the first one leaves off. Reading the story being told from the three main characters point of views gave it some interesting insight. The lies, the lust, the love shared I can see why things happened the way they did.
Overall, the duology was really well written. If you like dark romance, magic, sirens, twists and turns, some spice you will enjoy these books.
Overall, the duology was really well written. If you like dark romance, magic, sirens, twists and turns, some spice you will enjoy these books.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was able to read the ARC thanks to Nakita Kirwan and Hawthorn & Aster. This was book two in the series (I did not read book 1). I liked the storyline and the tropes.
This was a well written book. The author did a great job making you love both Helion and Rythos! I was crying by the end! Overall this was a really good read!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a well written book. The author did a great job making you love both Helion and Rythos! I was crying by the end! Overall this was a really good read!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Want to Read
October 15, 2026Morally Grey
Enemies to Lovers
Spice
Captor Romance
Forced Proximity
Cursed Oceans
Dual POV
Fated Mates
Why Choose (MMF)
Enemies to Lovers
Spice
Captor Romance
Forced Proximity
Cursed Oceans
Dual POV
Fated Mates
Why Choose (MMF)
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews