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Heartmender #3
Heartrender
Eman is gone. Silas is gone. Claire is gone.
When Addie returns to Ramni after her devastating encounter with Ophidian, she finds her heart broken from her recent losses. Yet, even though she is grieving, Addie continues her journey through the Twelve Lands of Decim to unite the Twelve Magisters. With the aid of Romen and Lyle, she travels to each Northern Land to find that Ophidian is no longer harvesting Decim's hearts, but their souls. With this new power, Ophidian will be almost impossible to defeat.
Will Addie be able to complete her promise to Eman before darkness rules?
A sweeping bookend to a remarkable allegorical trilogy, Heartrender will have you believing that, someday, in the not-too-distant future, it will be time for the reign of darkness to end.
When Addie returns to Ramni after her devastating encounter with Ophidian, she finds her heart broken from her recent losses. Yet, even though she is grieving, Addie continues her journey through the Twelve Lands of Decim to unite the Twelve Magisters. With the aid of Romen and Lyle, she travels to each Northern Land to find that Ophidian is no longer harvesting Decim's hearts, but their souls. With this new power, Ophidian will be almost impossible to defeat.
Will Addie be able to complete her promise to Eman before darkness rules?
A sweeping bookend to a remarkable allegorical trilogy, Heartrender will have you believing that, someday, in the not-too-distant future, it will be time for the reign of darkness to end.
- GenresFantasy
462 pages, Hardcover
Published September 7, 2021
73 people want to read
About the author
V. Romas Burton
11 books162 followersV. Romas Burton grew up bouncing up and down the East Coast where she wrote her first story about magical ponies at age seven. Years later, after studying government and earning an M.A. in Theological Studies, V. Romas Burton realized something even bigger was calling out to her--stories that contained great adventures and encouraging messages. When she's not writing, she's taking care of her three rambunctious sons. You can find future updates and news on her website: www.vromasburton.com
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 24, 2021
Thank you so much to Monster Ivy Publishing for the ARC of Heartrender! This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and I was so beyond thrilled to receive an ARC box in exchange for a feature and honest review!
Due to the nature of this being a review for the conclusion of a trilogy, I am going to try really hard to avoid spoilers but a series spoiler may be inevitable. What I would say is that if you read the first two books definitely read the third. If you are seeking YA appropriate epic fantasy or allegorical fiction , clean content, this is definitely a good series for you
...
I think this was a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, although unfortunately by far the weakest of the three books in my mind.
One of my favorite parts was the character arcs, especially Addie finally trusting in Eman and the others enough to ask for help. The boys completely stole the show in this one though. Seeing Silas’ history put a lot of the rest of the series into context and it was the most interesting to me. His trials provided a lot of necessary background to understand various character’s actions and also explained the whole Rexus thing.
Lyle just took control of everything with his newfound powers and I think he’s going to make a great Elder. It was also great to see Claire get some validation. Addie’s ending bugged me a little bit, I kind of feel like she should be a magister or something too but it looks like she’s going to be relegated to… Well… Yeah no spoilers
A lot of the imagery, especially in Silas’ chapters, was excellent again in this book. The castle in the tree and the imagery of the Elders was very well done.
Something about the allegory has been bugging me though. The resurrection is a tricky thing to represent and I feel like where the allegory was broader before, the author just tried to get too specific here and missed. Then again it is entirely possible that I could just be missing something. Not to say it’s not still a good read though. Jeff Wheeler did something similar at the end of a few of his trilogies where he just seems to get lost in his Theology.
I know that I’ve talked about the pacing of certain events in the prior two books, and the absolute frantic pace of the ending confused me here as well. I would have read a longer book to find out more about the missing magisters and Romen’s role, the time travelling, and a few other things. Characters were popping in and out all over the place in the second half of this book in order to get everything ready for the conclusion, and it was just happening so quickly that I got confused.
This is a lovely series though and I would totally recommend this to anyone seeking light fantasy, clean content, allegorical fiction / fantasy!
Due to the nature of this being a review for the conclusion of a trilogy, I am going to try really hard to avoid spoilers but a series spoiler may be inevitable. What I would say is that if you read the first two books definitely read the third. If you are seeking YA appropriate epic fantasy or allegorical fiction , clean content, this is definitely a good series for you
...
I think this was a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, although unfortunately by far the weakest of the three books in my mind.
One of my favorite parts was the character arcs, especially Addie finally trusting in Eman and the others enough to ask for help. The boys completely stole the show in this one though. Seeing Silas’ history put a lot of the rest of the series into context and it was the most interesting to me. His trials provided a lot of necessary background to understand various character’s actions and also explained the whole Rexus thing.
Lyle just took control of everything with his newfound powers and I think he’s going to make a great Elder. It was also great to see Claire get some validation. Addie’s ending bugged me a little bit, I kind of feel like she should be a magister or something too but it looks like she’s going to be relegated to… Well… Yeah no spoilers
A lot of the imagery, especially in Silas’ chapters, was excellent again in this book. The castle in the tree and the imagery of the Elders was very well done.
Something about the allegory has been bugging me though. The resurrection is a tricky thing to represent and I feel like where the allegory was broader before, the author just tried to get too specific here and missed. Then again it is entirely possible that I could just be missing something. Not to say it’s not still a good read though. Jeff Wheeler did something similar at the end of a few of his trilogies where he just seems to get lost in his Theology.
I know that I’ve talked about the pacing of certain events in the prior two books, and the absolute frantic pace of the ending confused me here as well. I would have read a longer book to find out more about the missing magisters and Romen’s role, the time travelling, and a few other things. Characters were popping in and out all over the place in the second half of this book in order to get everything ready for the conclusion, and it was just happening so quickly that I got confused.
This is a lovely series though and I would totally recommend this to anyone seeking light fantasy, clean content, allegorical fiction / fantasy!
July 6, 2021
Review to come!
September 6, 2021
It's sort of surreal this series is over…
So much happened in this novel that I truly would have loved an epilogue to "decompress" from all that happens in those last fifty pages. Out of the trilogy, Heartrender was the most battle-filled and times where you could definitely see where the stakes were the highest then they have ever been.
And I'm glad that in light of those two things, that we had a solid conclusion to the Heartmender series.
I confess that I felt this one was a little more rushed then the previous two because while I know there was A LOT at stake, I felt I wasn't quite as…invested(?) in what was unfolding? Yes, I for sure wanted the Beast to be defeated! Definitely no doubts there, but I didn't feel my heart was as into Addie's story as before. I can’t put my finger on how or why, but I just felt this was quicker than usual.
Silas on the other hand, WOW! I LOVED Silas’s chapters! As a reader, I deeply enjoyed seeing him as a rising king who made and makes mistakes and is far from perfect. Seeing him go through each test and what he must learn to be king was fascinating to me because I wanted to see what they were and how he would learn from them, but also because Silas was in a rough place who did not have the best rep in the previous book. I know WHY he didn't, but it was hard to love Silas as much as I did in the first novel because of him making not the best of decisions. However, this novel reminded me why I loved his character from the beginning! He absolutely grew so so so much!
Before starting Heartrender, I had seen some reviews saying that the theology was "off" and I could see why others would say that. Addie often said that she must believe in herself. I really thought and prayed on that because as Christians, we know that our strength as a human is not enough and that it is not enough to simply believe in oneself. We must believe in Jesus and what HE says about US, and I think that is what the author was trying to portray. Maybe it wasn't, but something I walked away from this story is that we must believe what Jesus says about US. Addie knew on her own strength she could not defeat the Beast. Eman has told her to have faith and trust what He has spoken to and about her. It made realize that as a Christian, I have to believe and trust what Jesus says about me. I must "believe in myself" and what Jesus says because if I don't, I won't believe in the person who He has called me to be.
Maybe I am not explaining that well, but it was a powerful reminder to me that we can't just say we love Jesus and not believe in what He says about us, especially when our fears and lies will try to drown out what He says. Will those fears and lies be greater than His voice because those fears and lies seemed bigger? Or will we genuinely choose to trust in what He says about us?
Seeing this in Addie's story was very powerful to me and while this is not my favorite in the trilogy, Burton's series has definitely knocked at my heart's doors and challenged my faith in a good way. There were some VERY good quotes that I wrote such as "Never forget that love is a gift for those who are strong enough to accept it." that deeply resonated with me and spoke to me.
Overall, this was a good conclusion to this series! It blends allegorical and fantasy with characters that are very relatable in their faults and choices as well as a story that captivates you. I would recommend this series to those who love triumphant endings and a blend of what I voiced above.
*(I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts expressed are my own.)*
So much happened in this novel that I truly would have loved an epilogue to "decompress" from all that happens in those last fifty pages. Out of the trilogy, Heartrender was the most battle-filled and times where you could definitely see where the stakes were the highest then they have ever been.
And I'm glad that in light of those two things, that we had a solid conclusion to the Heartmender series.
I confess that I felt this one was a little more rushed then the previous two because while I know there was A LOT at stake, I felt I wasn't quite as…invested(?) in what was unfolding? Yes, I for sure wanted the Beast to be defeated! Definitely no doubts there, but I didn't feel my heart was as into Addie's story as before. I can’t put my finger on how or why, but I just felt this was quicker than usual.
Silas on the other hand, WOW! I LOVED Silas’s chapters! As a reader, I deeply enjoyed seeing him as a rising king who made and makes mistakes and is far from perfect. Seeing him go through each test and what he must learn to be king was fascinating to me because I wanted to see what they were and how he would learn from them, but also because Silas was in a rough place who did not have the best rep in the previous book. I know WHY he didn't, but it was hard to love Silas as much as I did in the first novel because of him making not the best of decisions. However, this novel reminded me why I loved his character from the beginning! He absolutely grew so so so much!
Before starting Heartrender, I had seen some reviews saying that the theology was "off" and I could see why others would say that. Addie often said that she must believe in herself. I really thought and prayed on that because as Christians, we know that our strength as a human is not enough and that it is not enough to simply believe in oneself. We must believe in Jesus and what HE says about US, and I think that is what the author was trying to portray. Maybe it wasn't, but something I walked away from this story is that we must believe what Jesus says about US. Addie knew on her own strength she could not defeat the Beast. Eman has told her to have faith and trust what He has spoken to and about her. It made realize that as a Christian, I have to believe and trust what Jesus says about me. I must "believe in myself" and what Jesus says because if I don't, I won't believe in the person who He has called me to be.
Maybe I am not explaining that well, but it was a powerful reminder to me that we can't just say we love Jesus and not believe in what He says about us, especially when our fears and lies will try to drown out what He says. Will those fears and lies be greater than His voice because those fears and lies seemed bigger? Or will we genuinely choose to trust in what He says about us?
Seeing this in Addie's story was very powerful to me and while this is not my favorite in the trilogy, Burton's series has definitely knocked at my heart's doors and challenged my faith in a good way. There were some VERY good quotes that I wrote such as "Never forget that love is a gift for those who are strong enough to accept it." that deeply resonated with me and spoke to me.
Overall, this was a good conclusion to this series! It blends allegorical and fantasy with characters that are very relatable in their faults and choices as well as a story that captivates you. I would recommend this series to those who love triumphant endings and a blend of what I voiced above.
*(I received an ARC from the publisher. All thoughts expressed are my own.)*
August 1, 2021
4.5/5 stars (rounded up to 5)
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heartmender and Heartbreaker spoilers ahead!
Still reeling from her losses, Addie returns to Ramni briefly. However, she needs to continue her journey and finish gaining the aid of the Twelve Magisters. Accompanied by Romen and Lyle, Addie sets out once again. The group discovers Ophidian is collecting souls, making him even more dangerous and powerful. A battle is coming, one that will determine the fate of all the realms. The darkness is overwhelming, but there’s still hope left for Addie and the others!
A powerful conclusion to the Heartmender series! Heartrender is an action-packed Christian allegory with a beautiful message to share that is both encouraging and engaging!
I started off feeling so sorry for Addie, but I was glad to see her quickly get down to business! Even more than that, I was thrilled to get more scenes with Lyle! He’s a very interesting character, and I am glad we finally got to see more of him! As I mentioned in my Heartbreaker review, I really enjoy Romen as a character! Like Lyle, we got more scenes with him in this book which I appreciated! I can’t discuss many of the other characters without getting into spoiler territory, but I will say that there were a few new Magisters in this book who I thought were interesting!
Like with Heartmender and Heartbreaker, I loved the messages in this book! Hope is a huge theme in this story, as well as faith, trust, and perseverance. I also liked how each character is shown to have flaws and weaknesses, yet all of their strengths are important and useful. They all have a unique role to play!
I did have a few issues with this book that I wanted to briefly mention. Eman’s portrayal has always been problematic for me, but it was more concerning in this book. I’m not a fan of a human created by God being portrayed as Jesus, especially since there were multiple Heartmenders created. I felt like that was somewhat a misrepresentation of Scripture. On a much lesser note, I felt like the pacing sped way up toward the end of the book! Slight spoiler, but The ending came across as abrupt! This might just be me, but I wasn’t ready for this series to be over! I got really attached to these characters and I wasn’t prepared to let them go!
I didn’t mean for this review to get so long, but I wanted to get all my thoughts out! This series was amazing from start to finish! I would recommend the Heartmender series to Christian allegory fans who also appreciate romance and fantasy elements!
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heartmender and Heartbreaker spoilers ahead!
Still reeling from her losses, Addie returns to Ramni briefly. However, she needs to continue her journey and finish gaining the aid of the Twelve Magisters. Accompanied by Romen and Lyle, Addie sets out once again. The group discovers Ophidian is collecting souls, making him even more dangerous and powerful. A battle is coming, one that will determine the fate of all the realms. The darkness is overwhelming, but there’s still hope left for Addie and the others!
A powerful conclusion to the Heartmender series! Heartrender is an action-packed Christian allegory with a beautiful message to share that is both encouraging and engaging!
I started off feeling so sorry for Addie, but I was glad to see her quickly get down to business! Even more than that, I was thrilled to get more scenes with Lyle! He’s a very interesting character, and I am glad we finally got to see more of him! As I mentioned in my Heartbreaker review, I really enjoy Romen as a character! Like Lyle, we got more scenes with him in this book which I appreciated! I can’t discuss many of the other characters without getting into spoiler territory, but I will say that there were a few new Magisters in this book who I thought were interesting!
Like with Heartmender and Heartbreaker, I loved the messages in this book! Hope is a huge theme in this story, as well as faith, trust, and perseverance. I also liked how each character is shown to have flaws and weaknesses, yet all of their strengths are important and useful. They all have a unique role to play!
I did have a few issues with this book that I wanted to briefly mention. Eman’s portrayal has always been problematic for me, but it was more concerning in this book. I’m not a fan of a human created by God being portrayed as Jesus, especially since there were multiple Heartmenders created. I felt like that was somewhat a misrepresentation of Scripture. On a much lesser note, I felt like the pacing sped way up toward the end of the book! Slight spoiler, but The ending came across as abrupt! This might just be me, but I wasn’t ready for this series to be over! I got really attached to these characters and I wasn’t prepared to let them go!
I didn’t mean for this review to get so long, but I wanted to get all my thoughts out! This series was amazing from start to finish! I would recommend the Heartmender series to Christian allegory fans who also appreciate romance and fantasy elements!
August 10, 2021
A fantastic finale to this Christian fantasy trilogy...
As I write this review, I am filled with emotion. I absolutely loved these three books. Many book series fail to come to an epic conclusion. These do not. Everything that V. Romas Burton built was wrapped up neatly in this final book, and I highly recommend the whole series!
What I Loved:
The characters. It was so nice getting to read a chapter from Silas, Addie, Damien, Lyle, and Claire's perspectives. I like how the author gives us insight into each of the character's feelings, temptations, and struggles. Even though the chapters switch between first-person and third-person, they flowed well together and I had no trouble tracking who was who.
The plot. The story of Addie uniting the Twelve Magisters, as well as Silas going through his own trial, was fast-paced and unpredictable. The action was unceasing, coming to a final battle without any fluff.
What I Wished There Was More Of:
World Building. There were only glimpses of each of the lands of Decim (for good reason), but I sure wish we could've learned more about the worlds. So, V, are you willing to write some short stories with these Magisters and their lands? Please? No? Alright...Anyway, my point is that the world building was extremely limited because of the plot, so I only got glimpses of it.
Moments to Breathe. You know how I said the plot was fast paced? I wasn't kidding. Even during dialogue, the characters are always doing something (walking, shoving, eating, etc). I would've liked to see more internal thoughts from the characters, but I understand if they had to cut it because of the pacing.
What Might Be Problematic for Some:
The phrase "believe in yourself" or "have faith in yourself." I believe both of these phrases were meant as ways to bolster the character's confidence, so I can't get on the author too much for choosing them. These phrases bother me, and may bother some readers, because we can't rely on ourselves. That's why God had to come save us and give us his Holy Spirit to live holy lives. All of this being said, I think that a certain character returning at the end of the book indicated how we have to rely on God to completely dispel darkness. That might make up for the "have faith in yourself" theme.
Regardless of my small problems, I absolutely adored this trilogy. It is amazing and I HIGHLY recommend reading them.
*I received a copy of this book by the publisher for free*
As I write this review, I am filled with emotion. I absolutely loved these three books. Many book series fail to come to an epic conclusion. These do not. Everything that V. Romas Burton built was wrapped up neatly in this final book, and I highly recommend the whole series!
What I Loved:
The characters. It was so nice getting to read a chapter from Silas, Addie, Damien, Lyle, and Claire's perspectives. I like how the author gives us insight into each of the character's feelings, temptations, and struggles. Even though the chapters switch between first-person and third-person, they flowed well together and I had no trouble tracking who was who.
The plot. The story of Addie uniting the Twelve Magisters, as well as Silas going through his own trial, was fast-paced and unpredictable. The action was unceasing, coming to a final battle without any fluff.
What I Wished There Was More Of:
World Building. There were only glimpses of each of the lands of Decim (for good reason), but I sure wish we could've learned more about the worlds. So, V, are you willing to write some short stories with these Magisters and their lands? Please? No? Alright...Anyway, my point is that the world building was extremely limited because of the plot, so I only got glimpses of it.
Moments to Breathe. You know how I said the plot was fast paced? I wasn't kidding. Even during dialogue, the characters are always doing something (walking, shoving, eating, etc). I would've liked to see more internal thoughts from the characters, but I understand if they had to cut it because of the pacing.
What Might Be Problematic for Some:
The phrase "believe in yourself" or "have faith in yourself." I believe both of these phrases were meant as ways to bolster the character's confidence, so I can't get on the author too much for choosing them. These phrases bother me, and may bother some readers, because we can't rely on ourselves. That's why God had to come save us and give us his Holy Spirit to live holy lives. All of this being said, I think that a certain character returning at the end of the book indicated how we have to rely on God to completely dispel darkness. That might make up for the "have faith in yourself" theme.
Regardless of my small problems, I absolutely adored this trilogy. It is amazing and I HIGHLY recommend reading them.
*I received a copy of this book by the publisher for free*
August 8, 2021
Rating: 5/5 hearts: 🧡💛💚💜❤️
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🗡🦋Book review: ❤️ 🗡
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🗡Story: Ok...forget what I said for the heartbreaker review (actually don’t. Because all that is all still true.) that book was amazing, but this one is absolutely sensational! Even even more action, world building, growth, and much much more epicness!
.
.
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🦋Characters: The characters...what can I say about the characters that doesn’t completely spoil the book for you?....
Remember when I said there was a lot more character development for Silas in book 2? That was nothing! This book is where it’s at. All that development! Wow! I love reading about Addie, but I also really loved that other characters got to shine a little. And I love the romantic relationships that take place here. (Again, no spoilers)
It was truly incredible. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. V Romas Burton is a genius!
.
.
❤️Writing: The writing in this book was very different then the other two. Instead of following Addie through the whole book, we follow Silas, Addie, and occasionally Claire. The pov is still Addie when it’s her chapters, then it switches to a third person pov when it’s no longer focused on her. I admit, I’ve never read a book that does this before, though it’s possible that it’s happened before. It’s very unique, especially for the author, and I love it.
-
-
🗡🦋Book review: ❤️ 🗡
-
🗡Story: Ok...forget what I said for the heartbreaker review (actually don’t. Because all that is all still true.) that book was amazing, but this one is absolutely sensational! Even even more action, world building, growth, and much much more epicness!
.
.
.
🦋Characters: The characters...what can I say about the characters that doesn’t completely spoil the book for you?....
Remember when I said there was a lot more character development for Silas in book 2? That was nothing! This book is where it’s at. All that development! Wow! I love reading about Addie, but I also really loved that other characters got to shine a little. And I love the romantic relationships that take place here. (Again, no spoilers)
It was truly incredible. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. V Romas Burton is a genius!
.
.
❤️Writing: The writing in this book was very different then the other two. Instead of following Addie through the whole book, we follow Silas, Addie, and occasionally Claire. The pov is still Addie when it’s her chapters, then it switches to a third person pov when it’s no longer focused on her. I admit, I’ve never read a book that does this before, though it’s possible that it’s happened before. It’s very unique, especially for the author, and I love it.
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July 31, 2021
What a brilliant, gentle, gnarly, truth-bringing story. Burton always knows how to share nuggets of wisdom throughout an epic adventure full of loving characters. I love her band of friends who defend each other and Addie’s devotion to Eman and striving to be strong no matter what. The valley of the shadow of bones scene gave me chills, and that ending is exactly what I was hoping for. The world needs more writers like Burton, ones who clearly seek to write with the spirit and bring readers to Christ.
July 31, 2021
Thank you, V. Romas Burton, for writing a trilogy that matters and is beautiful and engaging! She dares to tackle the subject of growth and righteous confidence. "What do I do when I'm not being told what to do?" God wants us to grow. He does not want to command us in all things and it's so scary when you have to believe in yourself! But when you do it righteously, it only brings you closer to Him! I love love love it. And she is so knowledgeable about religion that I am honored to get to see her POV in this fictional book.
I don't typically talk so much about the religious aspects of books but just had to say how much I loved that. On the other side, great job keeping things super interesting, creative, and engaging!
I don't typically talk so much about the religious aspects of books but just had to say how much I loved that. On the other side, great job keeping things super interesting, creative, and engaging!
August 2, 2021
Heartrender... more like epic battle, white knuckle, edge of your seat, remember to breathe, greatness!
I like that the author included multiple POVs but I found myself reading multiple chapters in one POV due to the jaw-dropping cliffhangers. I skipped around a lot but it all made sense.
Burton has fantastic world building skills. I felt like I was in the story experience it all from the first book. I cannot wait to see what adventure Burton has in store next. for her readers
I like that the author included multiple POVs but I found myself reading multiple chapters in one POV due to the jaw-dropping cliffhangers. I skipped around a lot but it all made sense.
Burton has fantastic world building skills. I felt like I was in the story experience it all from the first book. I cannot wait to see what adventure Burton has in store next. for her readers
December 9, 2025
4.5 stars
The end of this Christian fantasy allegory romance. The final battle - but actually, so many many battles. This book showed the real struggle with temptations and falling into sin and redemption and forgiveness. It was a well created story. There was so much inside this book it was like drinking from a fire hose - constant action and twists and turns. Good versus evil. Making right choices. Believing truth over lies. This was a really good series and I’m excited to read more from this author. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The end of this Christian fantasy allegory romance. The final battle - but actually, so many many battles. This book showed the real struggle with temptations and falling into sin and redemption and forgiveness. It was a well created story. There was so much inside this book it was like drinking from a fire hose - constant action and twists and turns. Good versus evil. Making right choices. Believing truth over lies. This was a really good series and I’m excited to read more from this author. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 19, 2025
an amazing finisher! Rapping up the story is something that's really difficult, but it was done wonderfully! My only critique is the fact that I couldn't reread it with the same level of wonder as the first time!
March 6, 2022
Wow, what a finale! I found it a little harder to stay connected to the narrative in this book since it switched between Addie and Silas's perspectives so often, but they both went on quite a journey! I loved the themes of forgiveness, hope, and our need to rely on God in whatever battles we face in our lives, and the author's powerful writing style makes for a vivid, moving read. A fitting conclusion to a beautiful series!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
September 8, 2021
I can’t believe I have reached the end of Addie’s journey. Of course that’s the great thing about books, you can go back and journey with the characters again and again. The Heartmender series is definitely a re-read for me and I don’t say that lightly. I’m typically not a reader who likes to re-read. So that should tell you how great this series is.
This was a perfect book to wrap up the Heartmender series. So many questions were answered. So many new characters were introduced. Silas’s past is revealed and we learn more about Addie and Lyle’s parents.
From the start the book was an emotional rollercoaster. Burton really knows how to tug on your heart strings.
More Lyle made me so happy!
I don’t even know where to begin to review without spoilers. Heartrender kept me turning page after page. I read it on vacation at the beach and I found myself wanting to spend my time reading it instead of doing anything else, haha. The book opened with a prologue from Lyle that made so happy. I love Lyle and was very excited to see more Lyle. In fact, no spoilers but you get to see lots of Lyle! He is easily one of my favorite characters especially after reading Heartrender.
The pacing of the book is done well.
I loved Burton’s world building. We get a glimpse of the other realms and I want more. The allegorical elements are cleverly blended in without being in your face preaching.
More background info of the characters and lots of questions answered.
The end of Heartrender was action packed and emotionally moving. There were some moments that moved me to tears which doesn’t happen often.
The growth of the character Addie is a great representation of the growth of a believer as we allow God to lead our lives. Each battle we face—He has the victory—but we still go through it, and just like Addie and Silas, each battle and victory make us stronger.
What I like:
- As always, I love Burton’s world building.
- Her characters. They aren’t Mary Sue’s. They are flawed, but they do overcome their flaws.
- Her allegory elements. Her books paint beautiful pictures of what we face in everyday life.
What I didn’t like:
- I was a little confused at first with the introduction to some new characters and kind of wish we had seen them sooner.
- The series is over :'(
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a perfect book to wrap up the Heartmender series. So many questions were answered. So many new characters were introduced. Silas’s past is revealed and we learn more about Addie and Lyle’s parents.
From the start the book was an emotional rollercoaster. Burton really knows how to tug on your heart strings.
More Lyle made me so happy!
I don’t even know where to begin to review without spoilers. Heartrender kept me turning page after page. I read it on vacation at the beach and I found myself wanting to spend my time reading it instead of doing anything else, haha. The book opened with a prologue from Lyle that made so happy. I love Lyle and was very excited to see more Lyle. In fact, no spoilers but you get to see lots of Lyle! He is easily one of my favorite characters especially after reading Heartrender.
The pacing of the book is done well.
I loved Burton’s world building. We get a glimpse of the other realms and I want more. The allegorical elements are cleverly blended in without being in your face preaching.
More background info of the characters and lots of questions answered.
The end of Heartrender was action packed and emotionally moving. There were some moments that moved me to tears which doesn’t happen often.
The growth of the character Addie is a great representation of the growth of a believer as we allow God to lead our lives. Each battle we face—He has the victory—but we still go through it, and just like Addie and Silas, each battle and victory make us stronger.
What I like:
- As always, I love Burton’s world building.
- Her characters. They aren’t Mary Sue’s. They are flawed, but they do overcome their flaws.
- Her allegory elements. Her books paint beautiful pictures of what we face in everyday life.
What I didn’t like:
- I was a little confused at first with the introduction to some new characters and kind of wish we had seen them sooner.
- The series is over :'(
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2021
Each book in this series gets stronger. I recommend these books for people who love dark allegorical Christian fantasy.
Plot: Strong and driven, with fantastic pacing. We switch POV characters with every chapter, which builds tension and keeps the plot moving forward as each character fights their own battles before they all join together at the final battle.
Characters: A returning cast of characters we love. Spunky Addie has really come into her own, wielding her power and bestowing forgiveness. Silas and Lyle have the biggest character arcs. Getting more time with those two is always a treat. Romen and Claire continue to make me grin with their sass and snark.
World: The world of Decim is as beautifully developed as ever. Absolutely no complaints here.
Writing: As with the previous two books, I found the writing to be strong overall, except for a not infrequent use of unusual/strange word choices that sometimes brought me out of the story. I haven’t seen other people comment on this, so perhaps it’s just preference.
Themes: There are strong themes of faith and forgiveness woven through this story with careful discernment. Lovely.
*I received a free ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Plot: Strong and driven, with fantastic pacing. We switch POV characters with every chapter, which builds tension and keeps the plot moving forward as each character fights their own battles before they all join together at the final battle.
Characters: A returning cast of characters we love. Spunky Addie has really come into her own, wielding her power and bestowing forgiveness. Silas and Lyle have the biggest character arcs. Getting more time with those two is always a treat. Romen and Claire continue to make me grin with their sass and snark.
World: The world of Decim is as beautifully developed as ever. Absolutely no complaints here.
Writing: As with the previous two books, I found the writing to be strong overall, except for a not infrequent use of unusual/strange word choices that sometimes brought me out of the story. I haven’t seen other people comment on this, so perhaps it’s just preference.
Themes: There are strong themes of faith and forgiveness woven through this story with careful discernment. Lovely.
*I received a free ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
September 6, 2021
The final book in the Heartmender series. I cried. Several times. Which could be due to pregnancy hormones, but if you know me at all, you know that's not necessarily the case. It was an amazing ending to a wonderful series, I couldn't put it down. There were a few times I wondered how everything could possibly turn out okay, but overall was pleased with the ending. I definitely recommend this series to everyone!!
September 7, 2021
This series is amazing! Highly recommend checking it out because words fail me. I’ll probably edit this review later because I NEED TO COLLECT MY THOUGHTS AHHHHHHHHH😱
But this book was seriously amazing. There were several POVs and I loved hearing other character’s thoughts! Great conclusion to the series!!!
Seriously. Check it out. Now. GO GO GO!!!!
But this book was seriously amazing. There were several POVs and I loved hearing other character’s thoughts! Great conclusion to the series!!!
Seriously. Check it out. Now. GO GO GO!!!!
June 21, 2023
Heartrender is a brilliant and action-packed conclusion to the Heartmaker Trilogy. An intelligent and strong heroine works to bring the twelve leaders of various lands together to commit themselves to their promised overlord and king. In the meantime, that future king has tests and quests to complete before he can take his promised place. A masterful piece of writing.
November 19, 2021
A great conclusion to the Heartmender series!
I felt the stakes being heightened, and in so many ways, the journey seems hopeless. But each trial kept me reading because I knew hope had to come.
I loved seeing more of Silas and Lyle and learning more about the characters.
I felt the stakes being heightened, and in so many ways, the journey seems hopeless. But each trial kept me reading because I knew hope had to come.
I loved seeing more of Silas and Lyle and learning more about the characters.
December 3, 2021
I'm incredibly proud of my wife for creating a beautifully written book the concludes the story in a unique world. Her imagination and creativity in writing the Heartmender series is extremely impressive. This story of good triumphing over evil is definitely a series worthy of your time.
October 3, 2022
A fast-paced conclusion to an imaginative and deep deep deep story... The cape, the library, the hearts. It was like reading a movie, and my favorite of the trilogy!
September 2, 2021
Heartrender by:V. Romas Burton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
Magic , world building , character driven story of finding yourself, trusting others and doing what is right for others …. Yep sign me up for book 3 of the Heartmender series!!
The final book in this trilogy was a fitting end. I loved the struggles that Silas went through. The growing Addie had and finally more development for Lyle. The author’s style is to write a beautiful novel that will convict you, challenge you and redeem you, and she does it masterfully. I would recommend this book to anyone and will I’m sure be rereading it again!!!!! This series has become one of my ultimate favorites!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
Magic , world building , character driven story of finding yourself, trusting others and doing what is right for others …. Yep sign me up for book 3 of the Heartmender series!!
The final book in this trilogy was a fitting end. I loved the struggles that Silas went through. The growing Addie had and finally more development for Lyle. The author’s style is to write a beautiful novel that will convict you, challenge you and redeem you, and she does it masterfully. I would recommend this book to anyone and will I’m sure be rereading it again!!!!! This series has become one of my ultimate favorites!!!!
August 13, 2023
What an action-packed, exciting conclusion to the Heartmender series! Lots of ups and downs through the characters’ journey, but it was satisfying to see their growth throughout. Great spiritual themes throughout.
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