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The Head, the Heart, and the Heir #2
Broken Sons
Alex and Aaron are still reeling from the choice she made that forced them apart.
After fleeing to her Uncle Moorloc’s castle, Alex tries desperately to learn to control the ever growing magic coursing through her, while staying safe from Kruft, Lygari, and the other mercenaries who believe women shouldn’t have any sort of power.
Aaron finds his strength as a Datten prince, and after declaring war on Moorloc, sets out to assemble a cavalry to head into the Ogre Mountains to get help from the one person who might have more information on the location of Moorloc’s castle, the King of Betruger.
As they fight their own battles to try to get back to each other, they’ll find new friends, battle foes, and reach deep to grow into who they were destined to become.
Will they find their way to each other? And if they do, will they ever be the same again?
Note: This book deals with mature content and is recommended for upper YA (15 +)
After fleeing to her Uncle Moorloc’s castle, Alex tries desperately to learn to control the ever growing magic coursing through her, while staying safe from Kruft, Lygari, and the other mercenaries who believe women shouldn’t have any sort of power.
Aaron finds his strength as a Datten prince, and after declaring war on Moorloc, sets out to assemble a cavalry to head into the Ogre Mountains to get help from the one person who might have more information on the location of Moorloc’s castle, the King of Betruger.
As they fight their own battles to try to get back to each other, they’ll find new friends, battle foes, and reach deep to grow into who they were destined to become.
Will they find their way to each other? And if they do, will they ever be the same again?
Note: This book deals with mature content and is recommended for upper YA (15 +)
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2023
About the author
Alice Hanov
18 books236 followersAlice Hanov is a writer who graduated with a degree in Rhetoric and Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo. She’s been writing and dreaming up stories since she was seven and only now decided to get them on paper after enthralling her children with them.
She's working on the final book in her debut series The Head, The Heart and The Heir, and starting two new series including Torian Tales, a series of stand alone stories or duologies set in the fantasy world of Torian, from her main series. The first story, Heart of the Siren, will be releasing in November, 2025.
When she isn’t writing Alice is raising her three kids with her husband, helping run their software company Hanov Solutions or can be found reading, painting, knitting and chasing after their three super busy, artistic children who aspire to be artists or you tubers themselves.
She's working on the final book in her debut series The Head, The Heart and The Heir, and starting two new series including Torian Tales, a series of stand alone stories or duologies set in the fantasy world of Torian, from her main series. The first story, Heart of the Siren, will be releasing in November, 2025.
When she isn’t writing Alice is raising her three kids with her husband, helping run their software company Hanov Solutions or can be found reading, painting, knitting and chasing after their three super busy, artistic children who aspire to be artists or you tubers themselves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 6, 2023
Wow! Another amazing book by this amazing indie author!! I wanted to read this faster, but alas, headaches kept me from devouring it as soon as the ARC copy arrived in my email!!
This is the second book in her series, and the world building and character development is top-notch! A slow burning novel full of twists, turns, action, and romance.
I like the introduction of new characters. It adds an extra layer of mystery and excitement to this story.
The further I got into this book, the more I hated to put it down!
I'm looking forward to the next book, I can't wait to see what Alice surprises us all with next! 😀
This is the second book in her series, and the world building and character development is top-notch! A slow burning novel full of twists, turns, action, and romance.
I like the introduction of new characters. It adds an extra layer of mystery and excitement to this story.
The further I got into this book, the more I hated to put it down!
I'm looking forward to the next book, I can't wait to see what Alice surprises us all with next! 😀
January 9, 2023
This series is gripping and so well written! I would highly recommend reading the first book to fully enjoy this story.
Alex is at her uncle's castle after making a deal with him to heal Aaron and Stefan. Her uncle expects her to uphold her side until he feels her training is complete. Meanwhile, Aaron is gathering men to retrieve Alex.
Alex begins to learn as much about magic as possible. She learns from Daniel that Aaron found her clues. Now she must make sure she's ready when he arrives. The training is brutal, made worse by some of the sorcerers staying at the castle. After a particular incident, Alex cries out for help. Previously appearing in her dreams, the sorcerer Gryphon hears her pleas and arrives at her side. He tends to her injuries and offers to train her, since he is convinced Moorloc, Alex's uncle, has no intention of teaching her important spells. He also reveals to Alex that he is the Head.
As Aaron gains followers and marches toward the castle, will they be able to release Alex from her uncle's grasp?
Alex is at her uncle's castle after making a deal with him to heal Aaron and Stefan. Her uncle expects her to uphold her side until he feels her training is complete. Meanwhile, Aaron is gathering men to retrieve Alex.
Alex begins to learn as much about magic as possible. She learns from Daniel that Aaron found her clues. Now she must make sure she's ready when he arrives. The training is brutal, made worse by some of the sorcerers staying at the castle. After a particular incident, Alex cries out for help. Previously appearing in her dreams, the sorcerer Gryphon hears her pleas and arrives at her side. He tends to her injuries and offers to train her, since he is convinced Moorloc, Alex's uncle, has no intention of teaching her important spells. He also reveals to Alex that he is the Head.
As Aaron gains followers and marches toward the castle, will they be able to release Alex from her uncle's grasp?
February 12, 2023
Firstly, thank you to Alice for giving me an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Overall, highly enjoyable and such a good read! Finished quickly, and gutted there was a lil cliffhanger at the end. Where is book three??
My thoughts:
I actually enjoyed seeing Aaron and Alex apart, it gave them so much more depth of character and yes there is some serious TW’s (please check out Alice’s website for a list prior to reading!), but the strength Alex gets from this and then later down the line admitted she *can’t* anymore really adds to her development and I like her all the more for it. (Big fan of a strong FMC, even bigger fan of a FMC who admits she isn’t always the hero and can handle everything!)
Aaron was able to step up and out of Alex’s shadow from book 1. He takes ownership of the situation and is absolutely determined to get Alex back from her uncle. He earns the respect of the kingdoms, his men and allies and I can see that being very important later down the line in future books.
Now, I am absolutely 100% a sucker for a morally grey character and in steps Gryphon. He had me interested from the first page he was introduced. It’s obvious that Alex will have to choose between Aaron and Gryphon much later and let’s be honest, I’ll root for Gryphon every time. (Morally Grey MMC x Strong Willed FMC = Yes please…sorry Aaron).
The reason that this was a 4 star read, rather than a 5 star was sometimes the pacing just seemed a tiny bit off. It’s really hard to explain, and I’m pretty sure it’s just me rather than the book itself but an example would be when we first meet Gryphon and he’s visiting Birch.
There’s minimal interaction between the two, Birch is a minor character but with significant impact in the history of the world, yet there’s not enough dialogue between Gryphon and Birch to have introduced her properly. It felt like a wasted opportunity and before we know it, Gryphon has left Birch and any chance we had of a better introduction.
There is a LOT of characters in this series, all interwoven and connected. The family trees and character lists at the back are really helpful, especially as more are introduced throughout book 2. This might confuse people when reading (got me a little in book 1), so I highly advise having that list to hand just in case!
My overall feeling of this book is that it is really well written. Characters are well thought out, plenty of backstory and history to sink your teeth into. The magic is fun and different to other fantasy stories I’ve read before. It’s absolutely worth the read, but you’re allowed to be a bit grumbly about the cliffhanger (like I am!)
Overall, highly enjoyable and such a good read! Finished quickly, and gutted there was a lil cliffhanger at the end. Where is book three??
My thoughts:
I actually enjoyed seeing Aaron and Alex apart, it gave them so much more depth of character and yes there is some serious TW’s (please check out Alice’s website for a list prior to reading!), but the strength Alex gets from this and then later down the line admitted she *can’t* anymore really adds to her development and I like her all the more for it. (Big fan of a strong FMC, even bigger fan of a FMC who admits she isn’t always the hero and can handle everything!)
Aaron was able to step up and out of Alex’s shadow from book 1. He takes ownership of the situation and is absolutely determined to get Alex back from her uncle. He earns the respect of the kingdoms, his men and allies and I can see that being very important later down the line in future books.
Now, I am absolutely 100% a sucker for a morally grey character and in steps Gryphon. He had me interested from the first page he was introduced. It’s obvious that Alex will have to choose between Aaron and Gryphon much later and let’s be honest, I’ll root for Gryphon every time. (Morally Grey MMC x Strong Willed FMC = Yes please…sorry Aaron).
The reason that this was a 4 star read, rather than a 5 star was sometimes the pacing just seemed a tiny bit off. It’s really hard to explain, and I’m pretty sure it’s just me rather than the book itself but an example would be when we first meet Gryphon and he’s visiting Birch.
There’s minimal interaction between the two, Birch is a minor character but with significant impact in the history of the world, yet there’s not enough dialogue between Gryphon and Birch to have introduced her properly. It felt like a wasted opportunity and before we know it, Gryphon has left Birch and any chance we had of a better introduction.
There is a LOT of characters in this series, all interwoven and connected. The family trees and character lists at the back are really helpful, especially as more are introduced throughout book 2. This might confuse people when reading (got me a little in book 1), so I highly advise having that list to hand just in case!
My overall feeling of this book is that it is really well written. Characters are well thought out, plenty of backstory and history to sink your teeth into. The magic is fun and different to other fantasy stories I’ve read before. It’s absolutely worth the read, but you’re allowed to be a bit grumbly about the cliffhanger (like I am!)
February 28, 2023
I’ve never been so excited to be an ARC reader before this series. I fell in love with these characters book 1 and was not disappointed with Broken Sons. I laughed, I cried, I raged. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. Alex is such a bad ass heroine. Aaron has competition for my heart with Gryphon. I can’t wait for book 3!
February 4, 2023
critical rating is 3.5/5 stars rounded up to 4
enjoyment rating is 5/5 stars
i really love this series so far, it’s hard to put down and the characters have so much depth to them it’s fantastic
what i will say is that it has a lot of trigger warnings, including but not limited to SA, attempted suicide, and death. one pitfall of the book containing such fragile and heavy topics is that they’re WAY too glossed over. to me it felt as though the author was afraid of working with those topics so there wasn’t any time spent delving into it and actually discussing it.
setting that aside the book was a fantastic read
enjoyment rating is 5/5 stars
i really love this series so far, it’s hard to put down and the characters have so much depth to them it’s fantastic
what i will say is that it has a lot of trigger warnings, including but not limited to SA, attempted suicide, and death. one pitfall of the book containing such fragile and heavy topics is that they’re WAY too glossed over. to me it felt as though the author was afraid of working with those topics so there wasn’t any time spent delving into it and actually discussing it.
setting that aside the book was a fantastic read
March 13, 2023
This read was absolutely heart wrenching, I have not cried like this while reading in a long, long time! I was so lucky to be included in the ARC team for this book. I loved the journey of mystery and adventure, and learning more about the world and the people. Seeing the story I enjoyed in previous parts really come to life. And once again, the cover is so beautiful! I read this as an ebook but will need a physical copy for my shelf too.
The emotional journey this book took me on, and how well the different struggles were portrayed was just phenomenal. I love that it's not just a damsel in distress getting rescued but she has a key role in the rescue efforts. And that after bad things happen it's not just forgotten about but has an impact on the characters physically, emotionally and mentally.
I did not expect so much emotion or tears but am so grateful for it. And seeing the author's writing evolve and grow from the seeds sown before into this wonderful bloom was a joy.
Also, I love me a character who may act all tough and cocky but has such an unwavering good heart inside.
I do have one complaint though; I am absolutely devastated that I need to wait so long for the next part!
The emotional journey this book took me on, and how well the different struggles were portrayed was just phenomenal. I love that it's not just a damsel in distress getting rescued but she has a key role in the rescue efforts. And that after bad things happen it's not just forgotten about but has an impact on the characters physically, emotionally and mentally.
I did not expect so much emotion or tears but am so grateful for it. And seeing the author's writing evolve and grow from the seeds sown before into this wonderful bloom was a joy.
Also, I love me a character who may act all tough and cocky but has such an unwavering good heart inside.
I do have one complaint though; I am absolutely devastated that I need to wait so long for the next part!
February 19, 2023
Ahhh I loved this so much! I loved watching Alex grow and learn more of her powers! I can't wait to see what she does next!
January 13, 2023
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝔹𝕣𝕠𝕜𝕖𝕟 𝕊𝕠𝕟𝕤
𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐯
Fantasy
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
Alex becomes a prisoner at her evil Uncle Moorloc’s home in exchange for saving her friends' lives. During training, she is hurt more than you can shake a stick. She is to follow her Uncle’s rules and is punished violently when she breaks them. Her uncle’s goons are around every corner and gunning to hurt her.
As her love interest, Aaron is gathering a large army to save her, Gryphon hears her cry for help. He shows up and starts training her secretly. She learns a gazillion times more than her uncle taught her, and her powers are more potent than anyone imagined.
Gryphon is drawn to Alex. He is sure they will be together one day. Alex loves Aaron and plans to marry him. Will Alex break away from her Uncle and his cruel ways? Will Alex end up with Aaron or Gryphon?
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
I haven’t been so involved in a book in a long time. The characters drew me in even more than in the first book. Alex goes through so much, and her emotions are all over the place. She is tough but suffers greatly and sometimes loses confidence in herself. Gryphon is cocky in a good way. Although he comes from ruthless stock, he is fun and caring towards Alex. He teaches her and tries his best to keep her safe.
Broken Sons throws you right into the story. It is one of those books that makes you feel you are there with the characters. Alice’s descriptive language drew me right into the story. Seeing Alex’s powers grow was probably my favorite part of the book. Her interactions with Gryphon were a thrill to read about. They became close, and I loved how they interacted and teased each other. I’ve got to say that I wanted her to stay with Gryphon by the end of the story. Does she? You have to read it to find out!
Broken Sons is the second book in this series. I suggest reading the first one, The Head, the Heart, and the Heir, first, as you will understand this story much better.
Thank you to Alice Hanov for the ebook to read and review.
~Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
𝔹𝕣𝕠𝕜𝕖𝕟 𝕊𝕠𝕟𝕤
𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐯
Fantasy
Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
Alex becomes a prisoner at her evil Uncle Moorloc’s home in exchange for saving her friends' lives. During training, she is hurt more than you can shake a stick. She is to follow her Uncle’s rules and is punished violently when she breaks them. Her uncle’s goons are around every corner and gunning to hurt her.
As her love interest, Aaron is gathering a large army to save her, Gryphon hears her cry for help. He shows up and starts training her secretly. She learns a gazillion times more than her uncle taught her, and her powers are more potent than anyone imagined.
Gryphon is drawn to Alex. He is sure they will be together one day. Alex loves Aaron and plans to marry him. Will Alex break away from her Uncle and his cruel ways? Will Alex end up with Aaron or Gryphon?
Mʸ Tᴴᴼᵁᴳᴴᵀs
I haven’t been so involved in a book in a long time. The characters drew me in even more than in the first book. Alex goes through so much, and her emotions are all over the place. She is tough but suffers greatly and sometimes loses confidence in herself. Gryphon is cocky in a good way. Although he comes from ruthless stock, he is fun and caring towards Alex. He teaches her and tries his best to keep her safe.
Broken Sons throws you right into the story. It is one of those books that makes you feel you are there with the characters. Alice’s descriptive language drew me right into the story. Seeing Alex’s powers grow was probably my favorite part of the book. Her interactions with Gryphon were a thrill to read about. They became close, and I loved how they interacted and teased each other. I’ve got to say that I wanted her to stay with Gryphon by the end of the story. Does she? You have to read it to find out!
Broken Sons is the second book in this series. I suggest reading the first one, The Head, the Heart, and the Heir, first, as you will understand this story much better.
Thank you to Alice Hanov for the ebook to read and review.
~Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
January 24, 2023
I am obsessed!!
This is book 2 in The Head, the Heart and the Heir series and starts off right where book 1 The Head, the Heart, and the Heir ended.
We are thrust back into the chaos that had ensued at the ending of book 1. I desperately needed to know what drove Alex to do what she did and boy it was so worth the wait.
Alex is now secreted away in Moorloc's castle where he intends to teach her how to control her powers. She is not faring too well under his tutelage and is trying to stay clear of Kruft and his men who are determined to break her.
Aaron is determined to locate Moorloc's castle and wage war on him in order to save his future wife and Queen. He will take down anyone who stands in his way and Gryphon may be the first to feel his wrath.
This book was spectacular. We get to see Alex grow so much and start to understand the extent of her powers but not before she's broken down and must find the strength to fight back.
I. NEED. MORE!!! Definitely need more Gryphon ;)
This is book 2 in The Head, the Heart and the Heir series and starts off right where book 1 The Head, the Heart, and the Heir ended.
We are thrust back into the chaos that had ensued at the ending of book 1. I desperately needed to know what drove Alex to do what she did and boy it was so worth the wait.
Alex is now secreted away in Moorloc's castle where he intends to teach her how to control her powers. She is not faring too well under his tutelage and is trying to stay clear of Kruft and his men who are determined to break her.
Aaron is determined to locate Moorloc's castle and wage war on him in order to save his future wife and Queen. He will take down anyone who stands in his way and Gryphon may be the first to feel his wrath.
This book was spectacular. We get to see Alex grow so much and start to understand the extent of her powers but not before she's broken down and must find the strength to fight back.
I. NEED. MORE!!! Definitely need more Gryphon ;)
January 23, 2023
First of all, thank you, Alice, for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Now, on to my thoughts, I loved the book way more than I did the first one. The characters felt more mature, and more to my liking, I loved the magical elements in this book. The world building is awesome, and l love the new characters introduced, especially Gryphon he's such a smartass, and I love it, now the fighting and action in this book is great and loved how well Balanced the relationship building between Alex and other characters romantic elements and the plot are in this book it's a huge improvement from the first book in tone and maturity and can't wait for book 3 to come in the end please check out this series if you love mythology magic a bit of romance good plot and great characters.
Now, on to my thoughts, I loved the book way more than I did the first one. The characters felt more mature, and more to my liking, I loved the magical elements in this book. The world building is awesome, and l love the new characters introduced, especially Gryphon he's such a smartass, and I love it, now the fighting and action in this book is great and loved how well Balanced the relationship building between Alex and other characters romantic elements and the plot are in this book it's a huge improvement from the first book in tone and maturity and can't wait for book 3 to come in the end please check out this series if you love mythology magic a bit of romance good plot and great characters.
March 26, 2023
“ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴍᴀᴋᴇꜱ ꜰᴏᴏʟꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴀʟʟ ᴏꜰ ᴜꜱ.”
⚔️ Love Triangle
⚔️ Multiple POVs
⚔️ Magic System
⚔️ Morally Grey Character
⚔️ Cliffhanger
I liked this book better than the first! There was less immaturity and cut scenes. The characters' growth, world building, and magic system were well done! The love triangle/interests were better than before because of one being a morally grey character. Who doesn't love morally grey?!
Overall, there was a huge improvement from the first book, and I look forward to the next book in the series!
Please check trigger warnings before reading. ✨️
Thank you to the author, Katie, and Brey PA for sending me an eARC copy. This is my honest review.
⚔️ Love Triangle
⚔️ Multiple POVs
⚔️ Magic System
⚔️ Morally Grey Character
⚔️ Cliffhanger
I liked this book better than the first! There was less immaturity and cut scenes. The characters' growth, world building, and magic system were well done! The love triangle/interests were better than before because of one being a morally grey character. Who doesn't love morally grey?!
Overall, there was a huge improvement from the first book, and I look forward to the next book in the series!
Please check trigger warnings before reading. ✨️
Thank you to the author, Katie, and Brey PA for sending me an eARC copy. This is my honest review.
December 22, 2022
Alice has done it again!!! The world she has built, and the characters are amazing!! You think you know what’s coming, and boom she shocks you! I can’t wait til the next book comes out!!!
March 11, 2023
Stepping right back into the action from where The Head, the Heart, and the Heir left off, Alex is at her uncle’s castle, upset at having to leave Aaron, but trying to keep herself occupied by learning her magic and staying safe from the likes of Kruft. Meanwhile, Aaron will stop at nothing to get Alex back. Will Aaron make it to Alex before she’s broken forever?
I was floored by this book. I simply could not put it down once I started reading. I loved the multiple POVs and getting a sense of each character’s motives and thoughts. Lots of strong themes were covered with care in this book (be sure to check the content warnings).
Aaron really comes into his own in this book. His desire to reunite with Alex drives him. Gryphon is the morally grey character I can’t get enough of. I’m also personally fangirling over Harold.
Between the twists and turns, the marked character development, and the fact that this story gripped me emotionally (a rarity!), Broken Sons moved itself into a favorite of the year. This book ends on a cliffhanger that promises so much more in the next one. Please don’t sleep on this series and go read it.
Special thanks to the author for the ARC. All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
I was floored by this book. I simply could not put it down once I started reading. I loved the multiple POVs and getting a sense of each character’s motives and thoughts. Lots of strong themes were covered with care in this book (be sure to check the content warnings).
Aaron really comes into his own in this book. His desire to reunite with Alex drives him. Gryphon is the morally grey character I can’t get enough of. I’m also personally fangirling over Harold.
Between the twists and turns, the marked character development, and the fact that this story gripped me emotionally (a rarity!), Broken Sons moved itself into a favorite of the year. This book ends on a cliffhanger that promises so much more in the next one. Please don’t sleep on this series and go read it.
Special thanks to the author for the ARC. All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
March 11, 2023
Broken Sons was even better than The Head, The Heart, and the Heir. So many questions I had were answered and created even more questions for me. The multiple POV was *chef's kiss* seeing how things were playing out on both sides of the oath that Alex made.
These books could easily be made into a movie/series. The description is incredible and the world building so real that I can see the different kingdoms we visit in detail. Visiting this world is such a joy.
Gryphon adds a whole new layer to the story and I cannot wait to see what other trouble comes along with him. I am SO excited for the next book to come out in December!
These books could easily be made into a movie/series. The description is incredible and the world building so real that I can see the different kingdoms we visit in detail. Visiting this world is such a joy.
Gryphon adds a whole new layer to the story and I cannot wait to see what other trouble comes along with him. I am SO excited for the next book to come out in December!
March 4, 2023
This picks up pretty solidly where the previous book left off. Since it’s been awhile since I’ve read that one I did find it a bit difficult to keep track of everything for awhile. However, once it got going I had a very hard time putting it down!
This is told through a multiple POV format so we’re getting thoughts and opinions from everywhere which is actually perfect for this kind of book. I’m happy with the pacing and the action as well as the included emotion being spaced out because I do not like it when books get me in my feels too much.
There are some trigger warnings included here so definitely check those out before you pick it up. They’re pretty solidly similar to the previous books and this is not a standalone.
I gotta say though that cliffhanger ending? It’ll have me back for more FOR SURE. I have to know what happens.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!
This is told through a multiple POV format so we’re getting thoughts and opinions from everywhere which is actually perfect for this kind of book. I’m happy with the pacing and the action as well as the included emotion being spaced out because I do not like it when books get me in my feels too much.
There are some trigger warnings included here so definitely check those out before you pick it up. They’re pretty solidly similar to the previous books and this is not a standalone.
I gotta say though that cliffhanger ending? It’ll have me back for more FOR SURE. I have to know what happens.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!
March 9, 2023
I loved it!! The world was described so well that I didn’t need to use my imagination. I love all the characters, well the good ones. I was upset the whole time Alex was with her Uncle and cousin. I am in love with Gryphon. I need to know what happens. It is a must read.
March 2, 2023
Broken Sons completely exceeded my expectations- I couldn't put it down! I'm not usually a big fan of romance, but Aaron and Alex's devotion to each other is palpable, and the plot was absolutely captivating. I loved the theme of generational healing that is so prevalent in the book, and the deep dive into a darker style of fantasy writing. We are also introduced to a few new characters, all of whom are fleshed out incredibly well, with elaborate backstories and complex emotions. As a nonbinary/ genderfluid individual, I'm really looking forward to getting to see more of the nonbinary character that is introduced at the very end of the book. I will certainly be picking up the next book as soon as it is released!
March 4, 2023
I had the honor of being an ARC reader for the first two books and now this one and I am loving this series!! I love the characters and their back stories, the flow of the story all if it!! I don't want to give any major spoilers away but this one has a happy ending and a cliffhanger and keep you begging for more!!
February 25, 2023
I actually had to stop reading a couple of times because I was worried about what was going to happen to Alex next. This book has such excellent characters and descriptions. You truly feel like you were there in the moment. That is why I had to just put it down!
February 23, 2023
Oh my goodness I couldn't put it down!! The magic, the battles, the love, the banter!! I loved it so much! Bring on book 3!!!
February 27, 2023
4.75⭐️ (heed the trigger warnings everyone!)
So we continue our journey with Alex after she willingly goes with her evil uncle to save her betrothed Aaron’s life! However once in his castle things go from bad to worse just so she can find those books she needs while he rallies troops to rescue her {not that she needs it!}. I don’t want to give away too much but I enjoyed this very much as an ARC reader. I adore how the magic works and am excited for the next book already
So we continue our journey with Alex after she willingly goes with her evil uncle to save her betrothed Aaron’s life! However once in his castle things go from bad to worse just so she can find those books she needs while he rallies troops to rescue her {not that she needs it!}. I don’t want to give away too much but I enjoyed this very much as an ARC reader. I adore how the magic works and am excited for the next book already
January 25, 2023
Broken Sons by Alice Hanov is not only her second book, but the second in The Head, the Heart, and the Heir series, and she did not disappoint!
In Broken Sons we follow two journeys. One is that of Alex, Princess of Warren. We follow her through her stay at her uncle Moorloc's castle where she is supposed to be taught how to use her powers. Instead, she is treated horribly by her uncle, her cousin, and her uncle's men.
The other journey we follow is Aaron, Prince of Datten. Aaron and Alex are betrothed and he is willing to do whatever it takes to get his princess back from her uncle. He travels from his kingdom to a rival kingdom to make peace and join forces against Moorloc.
Not only this book, but this series is full of magic, romance, and battles. Definitely a must-read for those who love medieval-based stories.
In Broken Sons we follow two journeys. One is that of Alex, Princess of Warren. We follow her through her stay at her uncle Moorloc's castle where she is supposed to be taught how to use her powers. Instead, she is treated horribly by her uncle, her cousin, and her uncle's men.
The other journey we follow is Aaron, Prince of Datten. Aaron and Alex are betrothed and he is willing to do whatever it takes to get his princess back from her uncle. He travels from his kingdom to a rival kingdom to make peace and join forces against Moorloc.
Not only this book, but this series is full of magic, romance, and battles. Definitely a must-read for those who love medieval-based stories.
January 29, 2023
I just finished this ARC, and all I can think is "woah"! The world that Alice has created is beautiful and unique, and the characters are lovable, flawed, and relatable. I have loved Alex and Aaron since book one, but the addition of Gryphon is perfection! My heart will always be taken by the dark and ornery ! I can not wait for the series to continue so characters. I can see how things play out!
March 1, 2023
I was very fortunate to be able to ARC this book. I loved it! As the second book in the series, it does a great job of building on what was established in the first book and if you don't read the epilogue (which of course you should) it almost feels like this story wraps without any cliffhangers. Yes, there are unanswered questions, and we don't quite get all the happily ever afters we want, but where it ends is satisfying. And then you read the epilogue and you are going to want more.
I loved the introduction of the Head in this story and what it resolves from the first book but also what it sets up for the rest of the story and all the wonderful and complicated pieces the addition of this character brings. The magically aspects and lineage while I was reading were still a struggle to sort, but I was able to piece it all together enough to enjoy what was going on and of course there is a wonderful addition at the end of the story giving an overview/brief explanation of those magic lines.
I cannot wait for the next one. The sneak peek teaser wasn't nearly enough.
I loved the introduction of the Head in this story and what it resolves from the first book but also what it sets up for the rest of the story and all the wonderful and complicated pieces the addition of this character brings. The magically aspects and lineage while I was reading were still a struggle to sort, but I was able to piece it all together enough to enjoy what was going on and of course there is a wonderful addition at the end of the story giving an overview/brief explanation of those magic lines.
I cannot wait for the next one. The sneak peek teaser wasn't nearly enough.
March 4, 2023
First thank you Alice for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
WOW Alice is an amazing indie author who knows how to pill you into a book and fall in love with its characters or despise then as the case my be for a few in this book.
This book start's where the last one finishes with Alex in her uncles castle and Aaron putting together an army to go get help from a rivel king to save Alex.
This book brings in a new character to help Alex with her new found powers and help her serve her uncles mercenaries.
Broken sons goes from Alex's to Aarons pov like the first book but also includes Gryphons pov the Sorcerer who hears Alex's cries for help and comes from the forbidden lands to help her.
I cant wait to read the next book and see where Alex goes.
WOW Alice is an amazing indie author who knows how to pill you into a book and fall in love with its characters or despise then as the case my be for a few in this book.
This book start's where the last one finishes with Alex in her uncles castle and Aaron putting together an army to go get help from a rivel king to save Alex.
This book brings in a new character to help Alex with her new found powers and help her serve her uncles mercenaries.
Broken sons goes from Alex's to Aarons pov like the first book but also includes Gryphons pov the Sorcerer who hears Alex's cries for help and comes from the forbidden lands to help her.
I cant wait to read the next book and see where Alex goes.
November 29, 2022
Wow!!! What an amazing next step in Alex's adventure! I loved how the book picked right up at the major cliffhanger left from book 1 and put us back in the action. Alex is such a great character, and I felt like we really got to know her in this book. Aaron is my ultimate book boyfriend, and I am OBSESSED with how much he loves her and fights for her.
This book was darker than book 1, but it had the right amount of dark to show you want Alex was going through, and still keep the story moving forward.
I can't wait to see what happens next! Give me book 3 ASAP!
This book was darker than book 1, but it had the right amount of dark to show you want Alex was going through, and still keep the story moving forward.
I can't wait to see what happens next! Give me book 3 ASAP!
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December 1, 2022This is my book so again, I won't review or star it but it's counting for my reads this year!
January 26, 2023
[potential spoilers! i warn you!]
this is book two in the head, the heart and the heir series, and i was one of the people to receive the earlier arc (to double check for typos etc) and i didn't regret requesting it! this is also the first book i finished in 2023.
it's not a five-star for me, but it's pleasantly close to it. as in i was pleasantly surprised by it!
i never denied how much i loved the first half of book 1, and i also didn't shy away from expressing my disdain over the last half. based on just that, i was very (!) excited for this book (to see the plot unfold) but i also didn't have very high expectations.
it. did. not. disappoint. it exceeded my expectations! i liked it better than book 1.
(potential spoilers start now.)
okay, listen! you might hate me for this, but i was actually happy to have alex and aaron in separate scenarios for the most part of the book and... umm... dreaded their getting back together *nervously clears throat* because i hadn't like their idea of romance in book 1.
because they were apart, there was a lot more action and twists and turns and it was unputdownable at most times and you'd just want to know how it ends asap.
but hear me out, guys and gals, when they got together at last and coexisted in a few scenes, it actually made sense. it was more emotional than sexual, so the romance made a lot more sense to me than in the first book. (there was one borderline sexual scene though, just to give you a heads-up.)
but uhhhhhh there's one more thing... i liked alex's chemistry more with gryphon than with aaron.
there, i said it.
what! there was a lot more tension and connection between those two! you could FEEL they are supposed to be together. it also made more sense logically.
it ended on a cliffhanger, so i can't wait for book 3 now!
this is book two in the head, the heart and the heir series, and i was one of the people to receive the earlier arc (to double check for typos etc) and i didn't regret requesting it! this is also the first book i finished in 2023.
it's not a five-star for me, but it's pleasantly close to it. as in i was pleasantly surprised by it!
i never denied how much i loved the first half of book 1, and i also didn't shy away from expressing my disdain over the last half. based on just that, i was very (!) excited for this book (to see the plot unfold) but i also didn't have very high expectations.
it. did. not. disappoint. it exceeded my expectations! i liked it better than book 1.
(potential spoilers start now.)
okay, listen! you might hate me for this, but i was actually happy to have alex and aaron in separate scenarios for the most part of the book and... umm... dreaded their getting back together *nervously clears throat* because i hadn't like their idea of romance in book 1.
because they were apart, there was a lot more action and twists and turns and it was unputdownable at most times and you'd just want to know how it ends asap.
but hear me out, guys and gals, when they got together at last and coexisted in a few scenes, it actually made sense. it was more emotional than sexual, so the romance made a lot more sense to me than in the first book. (there was one borderline sexual scene though, just to give you a heads-up.)
but uhhhhhh there's one more thing... i liked alex's chemistry more with gryphon than with aaron.
there, i said it.
what! there was a lot more tension and connection between those two! you could FEEL they are supposed to be together. it also made more sense logically.
it ended on a cliffhanger, so i can't wait for book 3 now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2023
Alex knows she can't regret the decision to leave with her titan uncle, Moorloc. For as much as she wishes she were in Aaron's arms, it's what's keeping him and Stefan safe.
Now her journey into controlling and learning her powers starts, but Moorloc is not teaching her as he promised her mother he would. Instead, Alex finds herself confined in the castle, being picked on by a traitor to Datten and his consorts, while Moorloc does nothing about it.
One day she meets Gryphon, son of the titan of Ares and the next Head. As Alex is the Heart, she finds herself being pulled towards Gryphon in a way she has never felt before, but it's just the magic. She knows Aaron is her one true love.
While Gryphon helps refine her magic, Aaron rallies as many forces as he can. Making peace with past enemies, he forms a plan in order to kill Moorloc and retrieve his princess.
My thoughts:
I absolutely loved the first book and this one was even better. Alex's journey while finding her strengths in her power was captivating. And, oh my gosh do I love Gryphon!!! Aaron finally shows his Datten side and it's endearing. The side characters are all awesome and so diverse. Edith is a force to be reckoned with and I'm obsessed with her. I cannot wait for the next installment of this series (what I mean by that is, I cannot wait for more Gryphon!! 🤣)
Now her journey into controlling and learning her powers starts, but Moorloc is not teaching her as he promised her mother he would. Instead, Alex finds herself confined in the castle, being picked on by a traitor to Datten and his consorts, while Moorloc does nothing about it.
One day she meets Gryphon, son of the titan of Ares and the next Head. As Alex is the Heart, she finds herself being pulled towards Gryphon in a way she has never felt before, but it's just the magic. She knows Aaron is her one true love.
While Gryphon helps refine her magic, Aaron rallies as many forces as he can. Making peace with past enemies, he forms a plan in order to kill Moorloc and retrieve his princess.
My thoughts:
I absolutely loved the first book and this one was even better. Alex's journey while finding her strengths in her power was captivating. And, oh my gosh do I love Gryphon!!! Aaron finally shows his Datten side and it's endearing. The side characters are all awesome and so diverse. Edith is a force to be reckoned with and I'm obsessed with her. I cannot wait for the next installment of this series (what I mean by that is, I cannot wait for more Gryphon!! 🤣)
March 16, 2023
A perfect second book of this amazing series. I read the story in two days, I just couldn't put it down.
Aaron and Alex are mostly seperated in this. I love how they both grow on their own way. Aaron because he learn to be a true prince of Datten and steps out of the shadows of his father and brothers.
Alex learn how to grow her power and be a stronger person. Though the circumstances are dire. Check out the TWs before reading this book. Through the pages you could feel the loneliness, the pain and misery of Alex.
I absolutely loved the new characters like Harold and Gryphon.
Gryphon is morally grey characters who does anything to reduce the pain of Alex while learning her to control her powers.
The whole story is full of action, romance and suspence what makes every page truly enjoyable.
I am ready to read the next book and I can't wait to read more of the story of Alex, Aaron, Gryphon and all the other amazing characters!
Aaron and Alex are mostly seperated in this. I love how they both grow on their own way. Aaron because he learn to be a true prince of Datten and steps out of the shadows of his father and brothers.
Alex learn how to grow her power and be a stronger person. Though the circumstances are dire. Check out the TWs before reading this book. Through the pages you could feel the loneliness, the pain and misery of Alex.
I absolutely loved the new characters like Harold and Gryphon.
Gryphon is morally grey characters who does anything to reduce the pain of Alex while learning her to control her powers.
The whole story is full of action, romance and suspence what makes every page truly enjoyable.
I am ready to read the next book and I can't wait to read more of the story of Alex, Aaron, Gryphon and all the other amazing characters!
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