3.69k reviews for:

A Broken Blade

Melissa Blair

3.93 AVERAGE


"With the right motivation, that unrest could spread like a fire across the entire Kingdom."

This is a proper slow burn enemies to lovers with stabby banter, a flawed and complex (yet badass) FMC, betrayal, one bed/one horse, and sexually fluid characters. I loved the real life elements brought into to a fantasy world (TW colonialism/substance abuse/systemic violence/self harm/grief and depression) Keera's character arc was beautiful to watch unfold. 

The plot twists had my heart raaacing. I immediately put the next two books of the series on hold at the library because I NEED to know what happens next and we still have more information to uncover with Keera's backstory. 

I'm so excited to continue this series and support a Canadian author.

I read some bad reviews for this and I'm wondering if they even read this book?
There's people on the internet referencing things that didn't happen and misrepresenting certain scenes and characters.
I'd say, read this for yourself and see how you like it.
adventurous mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous dark sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
adventurous dark informative slow-paced

So, at first, I thought this book was going to be like every other assassin book I've read; Strong FMCs who do everything on their own, but I learned very quickly that Keera has her own flaws, and the author does a good job relaying that, allowing the reader to connect with her.  Her alcoholism is very real, and I imagine every reader probably knows someone who deals with the same disease.  Keera is REAL, which I find some books lack in.  I enjoy a strong, independent FMC, but I also like that Keera has flaws and issues she has to work toward.  I had two guesses on who the Shadow was, and I was right, but I was NOT expecting my other guess to be the leader of the rebellion.  Hello plot twist! 

Curious enough to check out the next book but it didn't wow me

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I picked up this book because of all the hype around it, what a cool idea of an anonymous book! I really enjoyed the story line and troubles of the FMC. The way author handles her grief and issues with alcohol was really well handled. The females of this book are strong independent and almost all assassin-like soldiers…which we love! If your looking for a great fantasy book with lots of political intrigue and interesting world building, this is for you. The book is very plot heavy but did move a little slow. I was looking for a little more romance heavy in this book but still enjoyed! The ending…what!? Plot twist! Heading into the second one right now.


"A Broke Blade" is an exhilarating debut novel that promises a rollercoaster of emotions from the very start. The characters’ journey takes them through six distinct locations within the first five chapters, making for a fast-paced and engaging read. Each new setting brings its own challenges and intricacies, keeping readers on their toes. The vivid descriptions and dynamic world-building are best appreciated in a physical copy, where you can truly immerse yourself in the story's atmosphere and look at the map.

While the initial chapters are gripping, the narrative does tend to get repetitive towards the end. This is a common trait in debut novels as the author finds their footing. However, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience. The limited 'spice' in the book might disappoint those looking for a more intense romantic subplot, but the relentless angst keeps the emotional stakes high right until the conclusion.

"A Broke Blade" is a commendable first effort that will leave readers eager for more from this promising author. Despite its imperfections, it delivers a captivating adventure that is worth the read, especially in physical form.
adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No