A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer | Book Review

5 out of 5 Stars. Middle Book Syndrome. It took me a few chapters to get back into the story; a few of the first significant events were predictable. But I loved the new characters introduced and the new developments in the second half of A Heart So Fierce and Broken.

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Setting:

A Heart So Fierce and Broken is set in Emberfell and Syhl Shallow. As we follow the main characters, Grey and Lia Mara, we get to see more of both countries through the story. Emberfell is a typical, traditional fantasy setting with medieval undertones and hierarchical structure.

Kemmerer had a little more freedom when creating Syhl Shallow. This country is more progressive with no marriage and the ability to select an heir. These fantasy settings have become more popular as of late; the Ash Princess had similar setting parameters.

The setting determines some of the plot points, but it has more to do with how the characters develop. Because of the hierarchical structure of Syhl Shallow, Lia Mara takes on specific characteristics that determine her actions. Those actions drive the plot more than the setting does.

Plot:

This book is primarily character-driven. Each person is working towards a specific goal, and we are watching those…