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Hearts Below #2
Hearts Lost
I’ll do anything to free my sister from King Grathgore’s court. Even if it takes me to the land of the monsters.
In exchange for my sister’s freedom, I have to enter the terrifying Lands Below and stop the monsters' attempts to bring down the barrier keeping our two kingdoms separate. But stopping them ends up trapping me with a dangerous man named Aloserin in a place he calls the void, and Aloserin claims those who enter the void’s twisting forests and shifting paths rarely return.
Still, I have an advantage those previous travelers did not: I can communicate with the shadow animals that so terrify Aloserin. Perhaps the two of us can survive long enough to find our way out.
As long as Aloserin doesn’t discover that I’m the reason we’re both trapped here.
In exchange for my sister’s freedom, I have to enter the terrifying Lands Below and stop the monsters' attempts to bring down the barrier keeping our two kingdoms separate. But stopping them ends up trapping me with a dangerous man named Aloserin in a place he calls the void, and Aloserin claims those who enter the void’s twisting forests and shifting paths rarely return.
Still, I have an advantage those previous travelers did not: I can communicate with the shadow animals that so terrify Aloserin. Perhaps the two of us can survive long enough to find our way out.
As long as Aloserin doesn’t discover that I’m the reason we’re both trapped here.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
162 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Hart
24 books98 followersRaised by wolves in the mountains of Colorado, Meredith Hart traveled the world to seek her fortune, fell in love with a half-elf ranger, and now lives in a cabin deep in the Maine woods where she writes steamy fantasy romance with snarky, reluctant heroes and the warrior women who love them.
She also writes mythology-inspired paranormal romance under the pen name Samantha MacLeod, and she has occasionally been known to pen a poem or two. Sometimes they even make it into her books.
She also writes mythology-inspired paranormal romance under the pen name Samantha MacLeod, and she has occasionally been known to pen a poem or two. Sometimes they even make it into her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
dnf
August 10, 2023This one wasn't for me. Once again, I think that saying the book 2 and can be read as a stand alone hurt this one. I felt like I wasn't in on some insider knowledge and felt a little lost in the world building and who characters were. I also felt like this was going to read in a very fairytale esq way, which is not typically my favorite. (Of note, I did not read book one as I was judging this one solely on book 2 since that was what was submitted to SPFBO9)
For my full review check out my video! https://youtu.be/Hkv-WGjEtt8
For my full review check out my video! https://youtu.be/Hkv-WGjEtt8
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January 31, 2024
3 ⭐️ Don't read this as a stand-alone!
I knew before going into this book that this was #2 in a series, but I got this one as a freebie and it said it could be read as a standalone. And, sure, technically everything can be read as a standalone, you're just going to feel like you're missing half of the plot.
This book was both better and worst than I thought it'd be. I really liked the relationship between the MCs. It was sweet, it's kind of an enemies to friends to lovers, and there's lots of angst that go with it.
Still, there's a lot of things rushed or unanswered left as the plot advances -maybe because it was previously explained in the first book, I wouldn't know-, and this ends in a cliffhanger. And personally, I'm a massive hater of those...
Overall, good enough to finish, but I don't think I'll continue with the series.
I knew before going into this book that this was #2 in a series, but I got this one as a freebie and it said it could be read as a standalone. And, sure, technically everything can be read as a standalone, you're just going to feel like you're missing half of the plot.
This book was both better and worst than I thought it'd be. I really liked the relationship between the MCs. It was sweet, it's kind of an enemies to friends to lovers, and there's lots of angst that go with it.
Still, there's a lot of things rushed or unanswered left as the plot advances -maybe because it was previously explained in the first book, I wouldn't know-, and this ends in a cliffhanger. And personally, I'm a massive hater of those...
Overall, good enough to finish, but I don't think I'll continue with the series.
July 29, 2022
This twisty story is the second full-length novel in Meredith Hart’s Hearts Below series of romantic fantasy adventure. Although the story can stand alone, I recommend reading the series in order, starting with the prequel novella, Heart’s Mission.
This is a fast-paced read full of magic, danger, excitement, secrets, sarcastic banter, and a steamy forbidden romance. The story is set in an interesting world with elves, dwarves, humans, dragons, and mysterious shadow monsters. The two main characters are from two kingdoms separated by a magical barrier that is destroying their lands.
This story is told from the alternating perspectives of Ithronel, forced into serving the despicable King Grathgore as a Royal Guard in the Kingdom of the Summer, and Aloserin, acting Captain of King Galan’s Royal Guard in the Lands Below. Both have been traumatized, and both feel forced into doing things they don’t want to do. They end up trapped together in the mysterious magical void. Will they be able to survive the void, as well as betrayals past and present? Can they find a happy ending?
I enjoyed the magic and the frequent plot twists more than I enjoyed Ithronel and Aloserin’s awkward romance, but they do share some steamy moments, as well as some humorous and tender moments, that I enjoyed. Be aware that the book ends with more questions than answers… I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this series, as well as the related Dragons of the Iron Mountains series set in the same world.
I think this series will appeal to those who enjoy reading epic romantic fantasy. Be aware that this story contains swearing and explicit sex scenes.
I received a free copy of this story from the author and volunteered to provide an honest review.
This is a fast-paced read full of magic, danger, excitement, secrets, sarcastic banter, and a steamy forbidden romance. The story is set in an interesting world with elves, dwarves, humans, dragons, and mysterious shadow monsters. The two main characters are from two kingdoms separated by a magical barrier that is destroying their lands.
This story is told from the alternating perspectives of Ithronel, forced into serving the despicable King Grathgore as a Royal Guard in the Kingdom of the Summer, and Aloserin, acting Captain of King Galan’s Royal Guard in the Lands Below. Both have been traumatized, and both feel forced into doing things they don’t want to do. They end up trapped together in the mysterious magical void. Will they be able to survive the void, as well as betrayals past and present? Can they find a happy ending?
I enjoyed the magic and the frequent plot twists more than I enjoyed Ithronel and Aloserin’s awkward romance, but they do share some steamy moments, as well as some humorous and tender moments, that I enjoyed. Be aware that the book ends with more questions than answers… I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this series, as well as the related Dragons of the Iron Mountains series set in the same world.
I think this series will appeal to those who enjoy reading epic romantic fantasy. Be aware that this story contains swearing and explicit sex scenes.
I received a free copy of this story from the author and volunteered to provide an honest review.
March 20, 2024
love in the void
What a wonderful story. I didn’t know it was book two going in so I definitely feel like I missed out on some of the parts of the first story, but it was an enjoyable read. I fell in love with Rowan and Arryn and I think that’s the first book so I need to check it out now. Ithronel is so sweet and good despite the role she was forced into. I adored her connection to the shadow animals in the void. Aloserin is a cinnamon roll for sure. They both are trapped in different situations that tie them to the enemies and it was nice to see how they sorted through that. Good pacing and plot and while it wasn’t a life hanger ending it’s easy to tell that there is more to the world with some unresolved plot strands.
Looking forward to reading more
What a wonderful story. I didn’t know it was book two going in so I definitely feel like I missed out on some of the parts of the first story, but it was an enjoyable read. I fell in love with Rowan and Arryn and I think that’s the first book so I need to check it out now. Ithronel is so sweet and good despite the role she was forced into. I adored her connection to the shadow animals in the void. Aloserin is a cinnamon roll for sure. They both are trapped in different situations that tie them to the enemies and it was nice to see how they sorted through that. Good pacing and plot and while it wasn’t a life hanger ending it’s easy to tell that there is more to the world with some unresolved plot strands.
Looking forward to reading more
April 15, 2025
Disappointing.
This is very similar to the first book in the sense that there’s no buildup for a gratifying Romance.
They fall in love at the 41% mark of the book! There were no believable actions or remarks in their very short journey together that would lead you to believe that these two characters could possibly be in love. 👎🏾🍅
This is very similar to the first book in the sense that there’s no buildup for a gratifying Romance.
They fall in love at the 41% mark of the book! There were no believable actions or remarks in their very short journey together that would lead you to believe that these two characters could possibly be in love. 👎🏾🍅
August 22, 2022
An amazing story with two MC's who match perfectly.
We get to see more of the previous couples and a lot more void.
Aloserin seemed a bit dull and bland in Heart's Mission especially compared to Orryen but he grew a lot especially under the influence of this beautiful monster from above. Highly recommended.
We get to see more of the previous couples and a lot more void.
Aloserin seemed a bit dull and bland in Heart's Mission especially compared to Orryen but he grew a lot especially under the influence of this beautiful monster from above. Highly recommended.
November 10, 2022
LOVE this book, the connection between mc's was beautiful and believable.
August 3, 2022
Another 5 star read in the Hearts Below series, Hearts Lost picks up the action as Aloserin delivers the horrible prince back to the Worlds Above and returns to the Lands Below with an extra guest, Ithronel. When things go awry the next day as the Kingdom of the Fall attempts to bring down the barrier, Aloserin and Ithronel are transported into the Void where they must use all their skills to survive.
I loved how these two broken people come together through respect, friendship and attraction; struggling with their demons and their feelings, and finally choosing each other over family and duty. As always, this is a well written, engaging story with imaginative worldbuilding. There were some unexpected developments towards the end which had me on the edge of my seat and I can not wait to read the next book in the series!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved how these two broken people come together through respect, friendship and attraction; struggling with their demons and their feelings, and finally choosing each other over family and duty. As always, this is a well written, engaging story with imaginative worldbuilding. There were some unexpected developments towards the end which had me on the edge of my seat and I can not wait to read the next book in the series!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 1, 2024
I loved this 2nd book in the Hearts Below series. Having read the prequel it was nice to see Orryen and Elanerill enter into this story. There's a small bit of Arryn, Rowan and Phaedron as well from Hearts Rescue.
There's plenty of steam in this book. I liked Aloserin and Ithronel's journey to HEA. I enjoyed when Aloserin notices how unique she is and reflects on it quite often. He doesn't take too long to recognize when he's being hard headed or just running scared, literally.
There's a good mix of traveling between the Void and Lands Below/Kindgom of the Fall. There's a good setup of what's to come in book 3. But it doesn't leave you on a cliff. I can't wait to read it.
Some highlights:
"His lip twists into the barest suggestion of a smile, and I completely forget all the words I’ve learned in my entire life. When he takes the fabric from my hand, his fingers brush mine. I feel that touch all the way through to my toes."
"...at least Orryen got to be sedated when he lost his heart" ugh the angst!
There's plenty of steam in this book. I liked Aloserin and Ithronel's journey to HEA. I enjoyed when Aloserin notices how unique she is and reflects on it quite often. He doesn't take too long to recognize when he's being hard headed or just running scared, literally.
There's a good mix of traveling between the Void and Lands Below/Kindgom of the Fall. There's a good setup of what's to come in book 3. But it doesn't leave you on a cliff. I can't wait to read it.
Some highlights:
"His lip twists into the barest suggestion of a smile, and I completely forget all the words I’ve learned in my entire life. When he takes the fabric from my hand, his fingers brush mine. I feel that touch all the way through to my toes."
"...at least Orryen got to be sedated when he lost his heart" ugh the angst!
December 16, 2023
Going into this book I figured it was the first one in the series because it was free for one of those "stuff your kindle days." I didn't see any of the previous books in this series then so I just figured. Anyway, I think this book definitely needs to be read in the series to better enjoy it. It was alright, and I did like the characters, however I was a little bored with the last couple chapters, I kinda skipped through them to see what would happen to the main couple because the rest was basically just setting up the next book. I think after the mail lady was rescued from the dragon they should have just ended it on a much shorter cliffhanger instead of dragging it out. But other than that I enjoyed it. The "spicy" parts are easy to skip, I just moved on to the next chapter and didn't feel like I miss anything important.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2022
The exchange of heart magic between Arryn and Rowan has produced the expected results and Orryen , the Crown Prince of Kingdom Fall has awakened after decades of being trapped in a coma. The King summons Aloserin, his acting Captain of the Royal Guard, to bring the Kingdom of Summer's despicable murdering prince back home.
In the meantime, Ellarin, summer's own heir has awaken from her decade long coma and yearns to
to go back to the land below and reunite with the love of her life, Orryen.
Upon learning of the situation, the King of the Kingdom of Summer, summons Ithronel, one of his royal guards and , threatens to kill her sister unless she accompanies the princess, kills her and destroys the portals between the two Kingdoms.
With Kings, Princes, Princesses, Magicians, traitors, and a murderous Dragon, the author succeeds in creating a sequel to the two previous books in this great series that is filled with love, hate, adventure, treason, action and twists and turns that grips the reader and virtually takes him/her on a ride to where the action takes place and has him/her experience the emotions felt by the main characters throughout the story. This is a 5 Stars page-turner that I recommend and I look forward to reading the next installment in this story between two Kingdoms.
In the meantime, Ellarin, summer's own heir has awaken from her decade long coma and yearns to
to go back to the land below and reunite with the love of her life, Orryen.
Upon learning of the situation, the King of the Kingdom of Summer, summons Ithronel, one of his royal guards and , threatens to kill her sister unless she accompanies the princess, kills her and destroys the portals between the two Kingdoms.
With Kings, Princes, Princesses, Magicians, traitors, and a murderous Dragon, the author succeeds in creating a sequel to the two previous books in this great series that is filled with love, hate, adventure, treason, action and twists and turns that grips the reader and virtually takes him/her on a ride to where the action takes place and has him/her experience the emotions felt by the main characters throughout the story. This is a 5 Stars page-turner that I recommend and I look forward to reading the next installment in this story between two Kingdoms.
Want to read
January 11, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBO9 contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
We begin with a character with a fantastic sense of voice. The chapter title has a sense of humor, and promise of something to come. The 1st person present narration is also deftly humorous.
We follow the Acting Captain of the Royal Guard at work managing his steady stream of paperwork. Nothing much happens in the Kingdom of the Fall, he tells us. Even the monsters are a bit of a disappointment.
Maybe this latest message from Head Magician Lythienne will be different. Whatever it is, not once has the magician shared anything that could be considered good news.
Wonderfully, gradually revealing setting, character, and story, the narration moves on at an active but measured pace. This is great stuff, the casual tone juxtaposing with the big fantasy elements.
What is the World Above? What are the Lands Below? How often do people fall through cracks in the world? What could possibly go wrong when the king’s magician is playing with magic that can make hearts disappear?
How much longer is our Acting Captain going to be able to say nothing much happens in the empire? I’ve got to know. This is an instant top of TBR for me. Great opening. I’m in.
We begin with a character with a fantastic sense of voice. The chapter title has a sense of humor, and promise of something to come. The 1st person present narration is also deftly humorous.
We follow the Acting Captain of the Royal Guard at work managing his steady stream of paperwork. Nothing much happens in the Kingdom of the Fall, he tells us. Even the monsters are a bit of a disappointment.
Maybe this latest message from Head Magician Lythienne will be different. Whatever it is, not once has the magician shared anything that could be considered good news.
Wonderfully, gradually revealing setting, character, and story, the narration moves on at an active but measured pace. This is great stuff, the casual tone juxtaposing with the big fantasy elements.
What is the World Above? What are the Lands Below? How often do people fall through cracks in the world? What could possibly go wrong when the king’s magician is playing with magic that can make hearts disappear?
How much longer is our Acting Captain going to be able to say nothing much happens in the empire? I’ve got to know. This is an instant top of TBR for me. Great opening. I’m in.
July 29, 2022
Love this series even more as it grows!
So I know it says this can be read as a standalone but I swear having read book one and the prequel it just gets better and better with each book and each character introduced.
Plus with this new book the ‘world’ grows even more as now we dive into the void. Plus this story is told from the point of view of two soldiers on each side of this ongoing conflict. One oppressed by the evil king from the Worlds Above and one fighting to survive each day in the Lands Below.
A m/f romantic fantasy full of magic, adventure, travel, betrayal and healing. Plus the spice is very nice when these two give into the magic their hearts create too.
This book does feature couples introduced in book one and the prequel. I may have squealed when a certain warriors eyes lit with blue flames and he let his intentions known. Sorry not spoiling the epic-ness of that scene.
So I know it says this can be read as a standalone but I swear having read book one and the prequel it just gets better and better with each book and each character introduced.
Plus with this new book the ‘world’ grows even more as now we dive into the void. Plus this story is told from the point of view of two soldiers on each side of this ongoing conflict. One oppressed by the evil king from the Worlds Above and one fighting to survive each day in the Lands Below.
A m/f romantic fantasy full of magic, adventure, travel, betrayal and healing. Plus the spice is very nice when these two give into the magic their hearts create too.
This book does feature couples introduced in book one and the prequel. I may have squealed when a certain warriors eyes lit with blue flames and he let his intentions known. Sorry not spoiling the epic-ness of that scene.
July 17, 2022
Treachery, betrayal, assassins, romance, magic, the VOID. King Galan of the Land of the Fall requests Aloserin escort Prince Folwynn back to the Land Above. He returns with Princess Elaneril and a woman named Ithronel, who King Grathgore describes as Elaneril's attendant. That's where all the trouble starts. Later, as King Galan's magicians try to reopen a portal, Ithronel, Aloserin and others are hurled into the VOID, where creatures of the dark await them in their journey back to the Land Below. Misunderstandings and deceit create danger for all. I should note I received an Advance Reader Copy from the author.
July 18, 2022
I was given a free copy of this book and I decided to give it an honest review.
I truly enjoy this author's writing style. Without bogging down the story with description, Ms. Hart, with but a few words, draws the reader into both the scene and the story. I take great pleasure in her characters. It generally takes me awhile to feel connected to characters and stories but I had no problem with this story. Ithronel and Aloserin's relationship is both hot and adorable. And neither character in a tough situation acts in a witless fashion. The author constantly keeps me guessing; I found the ending totally unexpected.
I truly enjoy this author's writing style. Without bogging down the story with description, Ms. Hart, with but a few words, draws the reader into both the scene and the story. I take great pleasure in her characters. It generally takes me awhile to feel connected to characters and stories but I had no problem with this story. Ithronel and Aloserin's relationship is both hot and adorable. And neither character in a tough situation acts in a witless fashion. The author constantly keeps me guessing; I found the ending totally unexpected.
May 4, 2024
I loved this book. Ithronel and Aloserin are so sweet (even if they are dumb at times). I don't know if it's because it took me too long to read (not a reflection on the book, I've just been having trouble reading physical books) or what but I will say that at some point Ithronel didn't really feel like a soldier but I also realize she never wanted to be a soldier so maybe it's fine. I mean, it didn't really detract for me, just something I noticed. I liked learning more about the big world story arc. I'm excited to see what happens there in the 3rd (and last?) book. I really want Aloserin and Rowan to be best buddies by the end of this series XD
July 29, 2022
I love this series and I love Ms. Hart’s writing. I’ve read these books in order (not necessary) and this is my favorite. Aloserin and Ithronel are an unlikely match but when they get together the sparks really fly. He is the most vulnerable of the two which was extremely well written into the story. He definitely tugs at your heart strings. The void plays a big role in Hearts Lost, and it’s definitely not what I expected! A wonderful read, I highly recommend it. I received an arc and this is my honest review
July 18, 2024
4🍁 | 1.5🌶️
I'm going to repeat myself, why is no one talking about this series? it's fun, quirky and damn a fantasy series where every book is standalone but it's interconnected series? That's like a dream! (so if you know some others, please give me the recs!).
This time we get to explore the Void and I had a lot of fun with both Aloserin and Ithronel (and if i'm spelling their names wrong please forgive me). Aloserin was a grump and Ithronel just wanted to do her job (even if reluctantly) and make sure the King upheld his end of the deal. (I'm a bit confused with her on that, considering her job was to stop the Kingdom of Fall from destroying the barrier how would she know that the king would uphold his promise when she would be stuck in the lands below?). but that's just some small plot hole on her side.
Overall, it was a fun ride which I enjoyed a lot!
I'm going to repeat myself, why is no one talking about this series? it's fun, quirky and damn a fantasy series where every book is standalone but it's interconnected series? That's like a dream! (so if you know some others, please give me the recs!).
This time we get to explore the Void and I had a lot of fun with both Aloserin and Ithronel (and if i'm spelling their names wrong please forgive me). Aloserin was a grump and Ithronel just wanted to do her job (even if reluctantly) and make sure the King upheld his end of the deal. (I'm a bit confused with her on that, considering her job was to stop the Kingdom of Fall from destroying the barrier how would she know that the king would uphold his promise when she would be stuck in the lands below?). but that's just some small plot hole on her side.
Overall, it was a fun ride which I enjoyed a lot!
July 14, 2024
original
Was a good read, different but not in a bad way. Loved the MCs and their journey. Loved the spice would definitely pick up the next to find out where everything goes. I’m honestly not sure if there’s a book before this one that I missed but it didn’t matter I got what I needed enough to understand and if not and this is the first book of the series it still works. I hope this makes sense. The book is good pick it up and read it.
Was a good read, different but not in a bad way. Loved the MCs and their journey. Loved the spice would definitely pick up the next to find out where everything goes. I’m honestly not sure if there’s a book before this one that I missed but it didn’t matter I got what I needed enough to understand and if not and this is the first book of the series it still works. I hope this makes sense. The book is good pick it up and read it.
September 24, 2024
Kinda lost me a little with this one. The romance is the same just different names. Again with the slow almost no world building.
This book is just like the first, in many ways. This is a heavy romance book with little sprinkles of fantasy and drama. The characters practically love each other at first sight.
Which is all fine because I feel like that’s the kind of book the author wants it to be. It’s a soft book, with spice.
This book is just like the first, in many ways. This is a heavy romance book with little sprinkles of fantasy and drama. The characters practically love each other at first sight.
Which is all fine because I feel like that’s the kind of book the author wants it to be. It’s a soft book, with spice.
July 24, 2022
Voids! 5 stars. - Aloserin and Ithronel are an unlikely pair. Thrown together into the voids, the reader will learn more about what is in the voids and the beasts that inhabit it. Story has great world building! It is fascinating! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 12, 2023
I looved this book! It wasnt the first book in the series and I think that was a little confusing for me at first but the world building was very easily understandable and it was very nice and different than the ones I usually read. The romance was very cute and also sexy and there was a sex scene I was absolutely not ready for but it was a delightful surprise
July 14, 2022
I think this is my favorite one in this series yet! Scenes that made me laugh, cry, cringe, and love as the world and magic system of the series continues to unfold. Definitely leaves me eager for the next book!
June 18, 2024
It took me a little while to get into this as I struggle with complicated names and connecting them in stories, but once I worked out who was who and how everything fit in together, I fell in love with Aloserin and Ithronel's story! I'm so excited for the next book and will be reading ASAP!
July 19, 2024
Everything I love in a novel ❤️❤️
It had the perfect balance of POVs, romance, emotional conflict, and uncomfortable conversations that made the world come alive. I also love the understanding of characters that we don’t always see in these books!
It had the perfect balance of POVs, romance, emotional conflict, and uncomfortable conversations that made the world come alive. I also love the understanding of characters that we don’t always see in these books!
July 20, 2022
I love Meredith Hart’s books and this one was especially good. I just wish the next book was finished! I need to find out what happens! Read it. You won’t be disappointed.
January 24, 2023
Really good! I didn’t love the characters as mush as I did Aaryn and Rowan’s story, but still a solid 4.5 stars!
October 5, 2023
This is an exceptional fantasy romance!! I absolutely loved it! Dangerous and riveting, steam and suspense... Addictive storyline and attention-grabbing characters..
November 3, 2023
I surprisingly liked this one, it had good plot and storyline. But, towards the end, it felt rushed. It lacked the ending I was hoping for. It ended in a cliffhanger.
November 7, 2023
The sheer amount of tea the characters drink and thirst for in this
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews