Venture into the spellbinding realm of The War of Lost Hearts, where dark magic, epic battles, and a love that defies all odds collide in Carissa Broadbent’s unforgettable fantasy trilogy. This series whisks readers to a world of power struggles and redemption, following Tisaanah, a former slave with a fierce heart, and Maxantarius, a brooding sorcerer haunted by his past. If you crave a story that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heart-wrenching, this is your next obsession!
With its intricate plot and morally complex characters, The War of Lost Hearts has captivated fans of romantic fantasy, earning praise for its raw emotion and unpredictable twists. Let’s dive into the magic that makes this series a hidden gem in the fantasy genre.
How The War of Lost Hearts Began
Carissa Broadbent, a Rhode Island-based author with a knack for blending epic fantasy with steamy romance, self-published The War of Lost Hearts starting in 2020. Inspired by her love for grim yet hopeful tales, Broadbent crafted a story that explores the cost of power and the resilience of the human spirit. Her background in cybersecurity marketing didn’t stop her from weaving a richly detailed world, proving that passion for storytelling can shine through any medium.
Broadbent’s vision was to create a fantasy saga that didn’t shy away from darkness—war, slavery, and betrayal—but still offered hope through love and sacrifice. The result? A trilogy that feels both intimate and expansive, drawing readers into Tisaanah’s fight for freedom and Max’s journey toward redemption.
The Heart of The War of Lost Hearts
The War of Lost Hearts spans three main books, with a prequel novella, Ashen Son, adding depth to the world. The trilogy kicks off with Daughter of No Worlds (2020), where Tisaanah, a magically gifted former slave, seeks training from the Orders to save her enslaved people. Her reluctant mentor, Maxantarius, a fire-wielding ex-soldier, becomes her ally—and something more—as war looms. Children of Fallen Gods (2021) escalates the stakes with betrayals and a mysterious entity, Reshaye, that binds Tisaanah and Max in unexpected ways. The finale, Mother of Death & Dawn (2022), delivers a heart-wrenching climax as Tisaanah and Max face impossible choices to save their world.
The series shines with its themes of power and corruption, justice, and the gray areas of morality. Broadbent’s magic system, intricate yet accessible, fuels intense battles and personal struggles. The romance between Tisaanah and Max is a slow-burn delight, layered with trust and vulnerability, while the diverse cast—including the enigmatic Fey character Aefe—adds richness to the narrative. Set in a world of political intrigue and ancient magic, the series feels like a love letter to fans of Sarah J. Maas and Laura Thalassa.
Broadbent’s prose is both lyrical and raw, balancing visceral action with emotional depth. Readers are drawn into a story where no one is purely good or evil, and every victory comes at a cost. It’s a journey of healing through chaos, making it impossible to put down.
Why The War of Lost Hearts Resonates
The War of Lost Hearts has carved a niche in the romantic fantasy genre, earning glowing reviews for its character-driven storytelling and emotional impact. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit praise its unpredictable plot twists and the way Broadbent crafts flawed, relatable characters. The series’ exploration of trauma, resilience, and love has struck a chord with readers seeking stories that don’t shy away from life’s messiness.
Its self-published status hasn’t dimmed its shine; instead, it’s a testament to Broadbent’s talent and the power of indie authors. The War of Lost Hearts stands out for its ability to blend high-stakes fantasy with intimate, human moments, ensuring it lingers in readers’ hearts long after the final page.
- Publication Years: 2020–2022
- Books: 3 main novels, 1 prequel novella
- Genre: Romantic fantasy
- Author: Carissa Broadbent
Ready to lose yourself in a world of magic, romance, and epic battles? Grab Daughter of No Worlds and dive into The War of Lost Hearts today!