💚 Heartless Hunter ARC Review 💚

Thank you so much to Kristen Ciccarelli and Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!

Heartless Hunter is a fantasy romance and book one in The Crimson Moth series. In a land where magic and witches are forbidden, Rune’s entire existence is in jeopardy. She comes from a long line of witches and her entire family has been destroyed. So when she decides to court a notorious witch hunter for information, did she sign up for more than she bargained for?

This was an interesting read! I enjoyed Rune and her strength throughout this book. She was definitely a bad ass! Gideon was an intriguing character and I loved him so much. The world building was unique and I enjoyed the historical twists on their society.

Overall this was a 4 star read for me. I enjoyed the characters and the story. Lots of world building and politics that’s set up for more in the series. This book did have a romantic subplot but it was super slow burn and faded to black, so overall one flame for spice

If you’re a fan of fantasy romance with unique magic, intriguing world building, and characters with all the enemies to lovers vibes, then absolutely pick this one up!!

Please Note: Review will be posted on Amazon upon publication

Do you like enemies to lovers? Of course you do. How about lovers to enemies? You’ll find both in this book.

This is New Adult with one erotic scene that stays firmly vague, in the YA arena.

The book is about a deceptively clever witch and a ruthless witch-hunter. The heroine of this story, Rune Winters, is one of the few surviving witches after the revolution that toppled the Witch Queens from power. In this revolution, Rune had to report on the one person she loved most in this world and watch her meet her bloody end by the hands of an angry mob.

Of course you side with the witches. Even now, years after the revolution, witches are a persecuted minority that are systematically and publicly murdered by the New Republic when found by the Blood Guard.

Enter Gideon. Gideon is a Captain of the Blood Guard and was responsible for two of the deaths of the Witch Queens during the revolution. He seems cold blooded and ruthless, and he is, but you learn why and you begin to understand. He and his family were tortured most cruelly under the Witch Queen’s rule. He lost almost everything and everyone he carried about due to the oppression of the ruling witch queens. You even begrudgingly understand his single minded hate, and why he has been pursuing The Crimson Moth, a rogue witch, with such fervor.

Of course, neither is 100% right. They’ve both suffered cruelly at the hand of the other. The true-north compass of this world is Alex, the brother of Gideon and the best friend of Rune. His love and devotion break your heart come the end.

This is a duology and ends on a cliffhanger. I cannot wait to find out how the two worlds reconcile into one, or if it’s even possible for some people to reconcile at all.

Thank you to Kristin Ciccarelli for writing a compelling story that I can’t wait to find out the ending to. Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC which in no way affected my opinion of the book. I hope someone ends up doing a special edition of this book… it is one that I want to admire on my shelf for a long time.

A witch and witch hunter? Count me in!

As excited as I was to read this, it didn't quite live up to the hype for me. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the story, it just wasn't one I found as memorable as I thought I might. I also thought this fell a little more into the NA category more than YA, but that was just my personal opinion based on some factors that I felt were a little more "adult." The chemistry between Rune and Gideon was perfection. I love a good enemies to lovers trope.

Will I read book 2? Sure, I'll definitely give it a chance!

Loving the story of The Scarlet Pimpernel from a very young age, I immediately loved the moments of deception that littered The Heartless Hunter. Rune's wild escapes were filled with tension to keep me reading. The plot flowed so fast I couldn't put the book down. A great testament to the outcomes of revolutions, especially the French Revolution, suffering some of the same problems the monarchy who they rebelled against. This book mixed in these larger questions with an exciting plot and tension filled romance.

Can't wait for the next book!!!

kristen Ciccarelli has shook me to my core! I loved this book so much. I was obsessed with the witch/witch hunter vibe! Give me more!

A fantastic series opener! Dark fantasy, romance, and betrayal; everything a reader could want in a book. Absolutely recommend!!

Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!

This was very reminiscent of Serpent and Dove, and I think it fell short for me because of that. I really liked Serpent and Dove and the dynamic that the main characters had, but the dynamic here was nowhere close.

I don't think I ever got behind Gideon as the MMC. He had a horrible experience with witches, and so he hated them (understandably so), but I find it so hard personally to make the jump from hatred to mass genocide. Obviously, that's what all these witch/witch hunter books are covering, but this story just didn't seem grounded enough to make Gideon a sympathetic character on the witch hunter side. Usually, the witch hunter I think is portrayed with more humanity or an internal struggle. I think that may have been attempted here but didn't quite hit the mark.

I really liked Rune as the FMC, so she brought it back for me a little. Though I wish we got to see more of her as the Crimson Moth and had some more action and forward progression on that storyline. Her encounter with Gideon in the mine was the most exciting part of the whole book, and KC could have really capitalized on that. But the ending certainly upped the stakes a bit more and got the story moving along again.

I was debating with myself the whole time I was reading this if I will continue the series, and I think I will. I think that maybe this suffered from First Book Syndrome and is really just setting up a banging sequel.

(3.5) Give me all the forbidden romances please! A witch and a witch hunter? Freakin sold. I was so excited to receive an e-arc of this and dove straight in. I was hooked almost immediately. Rune is a witch, but no one can know. And Gideon is a witch hunter that she hates for multiple reasons, and well, he’s not really her biggest fan either. I enjoyed the writing, the dual POV, the magic system, and the overall danger. It’s a bit of a slow burn, which I enjoyed. I do have a few issues with it mainly being the repetitiveness and ongoing back and forth both our mcs do that just seemed to drag out the story unnecessarily. I’ll mention another down below as it is kind of spoilery but I want to mention this, this book does not read as YA to me. There are some down right bloody descriptions and gruesome events that really took it out of the YA category for me. Which is fine, I just want readers to know beforehand. The overall mystery and plot had me very curious and has me on edge for book 2 so I already can’t wait for that to come out whenever that may be.

Tropes:
-forbidden romance
-enemies-to-lovers
-secret identity
-different worlds
-dual POV



*potential spoiler*

My biggest issue with this book is the side character basically insisting that Gideon sleeps with Rune to make sure she isn’t a witch? And him agreeing? Just feels icky to me.



Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the really access!

4.8 rounded up to 5/5

"Heartless Hunter" by Kristen Ciccarelli is a spellbinding journey into a world where magic and political intrigue collide, and the lines between love and betrayal become perilously blurred.

Set against the backdrop of a post-revolutionary society, the novel introduces Rune, a witch forced to conceal her true identity in a world where her kind is hunted and persecuted. The narrative skillfully weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and political drama, creating a rich tapestry that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The slow-burn romance and enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Rune and Gideon are executed with finesse, adding depth and complexity to their characters. The checks and balances in the magic system contribute to the story's authenticity, preventing the narrative from relying on convenient and plot-thickening magical interventions.

The world-building, while compelling, could benefit from further exploration, especially regarding the purpose and significance of witches in the society depicted. Nevertheless, the fast-paced adventure and the continual sense of mystery and suspense make for a gripping read.

Ciccarelli's writing keeps the reader guessing, and the satisfying yet tantalizing ending leaves them eager for more. The novel strikes a delicate balance between resolution and the promise of future developments, making it an excellent starting point for those new to the fantasy romance genre.

In conclusion, "Heartless Hunter" is a captivating and well-crafted tale that seamlessly blends magic, romance, and political intrigue. Kristen Ciccarelli's storytelling prowess shines through, making this novel a compelling addition to the fantasy romance genre.

Loved this book! The storyline was amazing and I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the chase between Rune and Gideon. I loved the world and the characters and the suspense of the backstory as I watched the story revealed. The only thing I didn’t like is that it’s over and all I want is to read more.

Fantastic book. Fantastic start to a series. I cannot wait to read more.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Full review to come closer to pub date (on Feb. 20) or after I reread this book - yeah it was that fun!

Thanks to NetGalley for the early advanced reader copy.

I had a ball reading this enemies to lovers, witchxwitch hunter slow burn. Can’t wait for the sequel!

This was a great young adult fantasy book with an interesting magic system, compelling characters and unexpected twists and turns. If you like a page turner, enemies to lovers with forbidden love this book is for you! A big thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC- I can't wait for book 2!

A witch saving witches from the evil hunters, hiding in plain site as the aristo fop, a female Zorro! High adventure and intrigue, secrets and betrayal, conspiracies and manipulations. The truth often hidden, lies seeming to be truth, but which is which - and love elusive and lost. Great fantasy adventure, to be continued ...

I really enjoyed this book! Who doesn't love reading about witches and witch hunters? Ciccarelli is a master at world building and creating well-developed characters. I loved the alternating POV of the main characters. The plot was full of action, suspense, romance, and betrayal. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

'"Sparing the life of someone you hate doesn't make you weak," she said. "It makes you better than the rest of us."'

It's been a long time since I've read a book this addictive. I picked it up, intending to start the first chapter, and set it down seven hours later, having finished the book. "Heartless Hunters" has a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, a soft magic system, and plot twists you won't see coming. If you're looking for an action-packed romantasy like "Across a Star-Swept Sea" by Diana Peterfreund, you'll love this book!

Part of what made me love it is the characters. Rune is a strong female protagonist who tries to save other witches from the witch hunters. She's clever, resourceful, and determined to do the right thing. That's not to say she doesn't falter or make mistakes, but she always finds a way to adapt her plans and stay true to her morals. She's one of the most realistic and likable characters I've come across this year.

And then there's the Sharpe brothers. For once, I didn't know which love interest to root for. Both brothers are equally compelling, and I like how they complement Rune's personality in different ways. This is one of the only times I've enjoyed a love triangle in a book. I don't know what dark magic Kristen Ciccarelli used to bewitch me, but it worked.

Finally, I have to talk about the plot twist. I had a hunch around the 60% mark, but I was still blown away when it came true! I can't wait to get my hands on a printed edition of this book so I can reread it and search for the clues.

And on that note, make sure you pre-order your copy of this book! It comes out on February 26th, 2024, and it isn't a story you want to miss. I'm rating it 5/5 stars and placing it among my top five fantasy books of the year!

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher; all opinions are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley for an E-ARC of this book.

Before I get into my review, I want to say that I think this book should not be in the YA category. It should be NA. I understand that the MFC is 18 and that technically falls into YA. The prose is also like YA. However, there is one sexual scene that I do not think is vague enough, and the overall content is too mature. I do not feel comfortable recommending this to minors, but I would recommend it to adults.

I think many romantasy lovers will enjoy this book. The plot is very interesting. The story is full of intrigue, deception, and dangerous games between the main characters. It doesn't take long to pull you in.

I think better world-building could have added more to the story. There was entrancing (and heartbreaking) lore about the history of the country and the main characters, but it fell a little short for me. Descriptions were there, but I think they could have had more depth.

The dual POV definitely added to the story. Both the MFC and the MMC are smart and cunning. I love how the MFC takes action to help other witches escape without expecting anything in return. However, I would still consider her morally gray, because of some of the things she does. The MMC is also morally gray. He is your usual brooding and ruthless male that can be expected in romantasy, and his backstory is very sad and heartbreaking, explaining to the readers why he does the things he does. The MFC also has a sad backstory that explains how she came to help witches escape death, but the MMC's history is ALOT. Although I like both of the characters individually, I don't think I like them together despite the intrigue of him being a witch hunter and her being a witch after getting to know them.

The book has one thing that may make you love it or hate it: a love triangle. I don't want to go into detail, so I won't spoil it, but I think this particular love triangle was weird. The order of certain events within it just didn't sit right with me. Also, the person who was obviously not going to end up with the MFC was actually my favorite character. I loved him so much.

The book has some plot twists, a couple of which I predicted, and a couple I didn't. I think the pacing was a little slow in places and fast in other parts of the book. However, it had just enough action to keep me turning the pages.

Like I said in the beginning, I am not going to recommend this to minors, but I think adults can enjoy it. I can see this book becoming pretty big. It wasn't my favorite for a few reasons mentioned above. However, I am 100% sure that other readers will fall in love with it.

Ugh this book. THIS. BOOK. I don't know what Kristen Ciccarelli put into this book, but it is addictive. If you like slow burn enemies-to-lovers, this book will be your jam. If you like books about witches and witch hunters, and want a really cool magic system, this book will be your jam. There's just something so good about a "I shouldn't want you but I do" romance, and this one does not disappoint. The angsty slow burn romance was IMMACULATE. It had me blushing, grinning, and swooning. There was kind of a love triangle, and I honestly felt bad for both of the guys. Alex was so sweet and honestly seemed like a perfect little golden retriever of a boy; he seems like the RIGHT choice for Rune, the safe choice. But Gideon had my heart. He's brutish and very determined when it comes to his job (the captain of the witch hunters), but when we learn more about him, he is SO SWEET and has had such terrible luck in his past and I just want a happy ending for him. There are aspects of Rune that I really enjoyed. I love how clever and cunning she is, and the fact that she takes it upon herself to be the witches' vigilante savior. Pretty badass. But her choices with her love life had me cringing. *SPOILER ALERT* She said she was in love with Gideon, but then overheard him saying terrible things about her and breaks it off with him (which honestly, YGG, I would too). But then she goes running to Alex, and he tells her he loves her and wants to marry her, and she accepts??? Noooooo girl, noooo. The plot twist felt a bit predictable but made it no less enjoyable to read. And the ending had my jaw on the floor. I want, need, would sell my kidney for book 2. I need more of these characters and this world, and I need to know what happens next. Thank you so much to Netgalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!

This book absolutely took me by surprise and enchanted me. I. ATE. IT. UP. First of all, the plot was so clever and well-done. And when you have such a clever plot, the writing better deliver... and this absolutely did! Every character had a discernable reason for their actions and motivations. You could relate to why they were doing what they did, even when each character was at-odds with each other.

Gideon and Rune... wow I loved them. I loved that Gideon truly started as indifferent/distant to her and they built a relationship from the ground up. I also loved that they knew they were each playing each other. They weren't stupidly blind to each other. It made it feel so real.

The ending was great and it sets up perfectly for the conclusion to the duology. I cannot wait to get my hands on it!

First of all, I just have to acknowledge that mouth-wateringly gorgeous cover! It's just so very pretty!

Based on the fact this is described as a romantic fantasy, I'm a bit surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Many of that subgenre that I've tried have been vastly underwhelming if not outright awful.

There was one instance where I felt Rune acted out of character and there was a plot thread that bothered me a bit concerning an abuse victim being encouraged to do something pretty unhealthy. The reason it didn't bother me more though is that it wasn't presented as being the right thing to do, or that the encouragement to do it was healthy, even though there wasn't an acknowledgement of it being unhealthy.

And that segues into my favorite thing about this book and that was the characterization. If you like morally gray characters, you'll like the characters here. They have their convictions and act to support those, but they also struggle with those actions, questioning whether the ends justify the means.

The romance had too much insta-lust and equated physical attraction and passion to love, which I dislike. But the fantasy romances I've tried and that seem to be successful and popular do the same, so apparently I'm in the minority with that gripe.

My true rating would probably be 3.5, but I'm rounding up.

Thank you to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for this early review copy.

I liked this book overall, my biggest issue with it is that it really felt like it should’ve been an adult title. I felt like a lot of things were held back or limited so they could fit this in the YA genre and that made it difficult for me to get through. Still a good book but I felt like it would have been so much better as an adult title.