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A review by lera_d
A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
The book picks up just after the end of the first one, so if you have not read it yet- what are you waiting for?
I have so many feelings and thoughts on this book, it's impossible to not spoil anything. If you are looking at reviews to figure out whether to read it, I strongly recommend it. This is the first retelling of Beauty and the Beast I've read that focuses on the events after the curse is broken and I think it's very good. If you are hoping to read about Haprer and Rhen, you won't see much of them, but don't be discouraged! Lia Mara and Grey are just as amazing. Getting Grey's perspective on things and the way he thinks, as well as being introduced to another strong female character makes this book *chef's kiss*.
Honestly I'm not sure I liked Rhen in this book. I know he is doing it out of fear for his people but I feel like it's a huge step back for him. Chapter Twenty?! I was half convinced this was not Rhen. I know it's not malice, but fear. However, I felt this did not justify his actions. I don't necessarily agree with Grey keeping the secret, but he did what he thought was best for Rhen. He has been protecting him his whole life and eventhough he is no longer sworn to him, this is not something you can easily stop doing on subconscious level...
“In truth, I tried to spare you all of this.” “No. You tried to spare yourself all this. At no point did you attempt to spare me anything.” “I left,” I snap. “I hid. I did not come back here willingly. You had me dragged back in chains.” I pause. “I have not caused the discord in your kingdom.”
Though I missed Harper, I loved Lia Mara, who in my opinion is such a strong female character. Starting with the fact that she comes from a kingdom where the women are rulers and men are just there to continue the line, continuing with the physical endurance she shows on the journey and ending with her unconditional love for her sister and willingness to die for her to be Queen. And don't even start me on this badass moment- Lia Mara is breathing rapidly. “I told you,” she says, her voice trembling. “I told you I could defend myself.”
And of course- what is a great book without a plot twist that makes you want to throw your book (or Kindle in my case) across the room... Plot twists like this should be illegal! I was so shocked but at the same time I can't say I was too surprised (does this even makes sense?!). To be honest I was a bit angry and took a "day off" before starting the 3rd book, which of course is testimony to how good this book is.
I have so many feelings and thoughts on this book, it's impossible to not spoil anything. If you are looking at reviews to figure out whether to read it, I strongly recommend it. This is the first retelling of Beauty and the Beast I've read that focuses on the events after the curse is broken and I think it's very good. If you are hoping to read about Haprer and Rhen, you won't see much of them, but don't be discouraged! Lia Mara and Grey are just as amazing. Getting Grey's perspective on things and the way he thinks, as well as being introduced to another strong female character makes this book *chef's kiss*.
Honestly I'm not sure I liked Rhen in this book. I know he is doing it out of fear for his people but I feel like it's a huge step back for him.
“In truth, I tried to spare you all of this.” “No. You tried to spare yourself all this. At no point did you attempt to spare me anything.” “I left,” I snap. “I hid. I did not come back here willingly. You had me dragged back in chains.” I pause. “I have not caused the discord in your kingdom.”
Though I missed Harper, I loved Lia Mara, who in my opinion is such a strong female character. Starting with the fact that
And of course- what is a great book without a plot twist that makes you want to throw your book (or Kindle in my case) across the room... Plot twists like this should be illegal! I was so shocked but at the same time I can't say I was too surprised (does this even makes sense?!). To be honest I was a bit angry and took a "day off" before starting the 3rd book, which of course is testimony to how good this book is.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Torture, Violence, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Murder