This book took me for a ride. I love the fantasy aspect. I thought there was going to be more romance but romance took a back seat to fantasy which isn’t a bad thing, just wasn’t what I expected. I can’t wait to read book two!

I'd give this one a higher rating if it weren't so damn predictable. It's a very enjoyable story that I'd def categorize as NA, despite its YA marketing, but I knew exactly what was going to happen. It is way too freaking obvious. I'll def read the second book, though. (3.5)

I can’t recommend this book enough. It has mystery, suspense and a young lady fighter for others. It opens with heartbreak for her and she still fights. It’s a deeper message for women than just a silly book about witches.

Heartless Hunter offers a thrilling and immersive experience, captivating readers with its dark, compelling narrative. The impressive world-building enhances the story, creating a vivid and atmospheric backdrop that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. I was hooked within the first chapter and couldn’t get enough of this book.

I want to thank NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review as well as the author for this free copy.

4/5 stars

I’m not sure what I expected from Heartless Hunter but I walked away really enjoying this book. The plot was darker than I anticipated for YA but in a good way and the characters were well written and likable! I will say the only things I struggled with were I didn’t realize how relationship driven this book would be and so I realized about halfway through that plot wise there hadn’t been a ton of movement and yet I was speeding along the read. The magic system is simple but I loved it and I lived for the balls and historical plot points. My only complaint is I felt it finished too quickly and so I can’t wait to see what happens in the sequel!

I think this is a great read for any fans of mysteries, enemies to lovers, and cat and mouse tropes. Looking forward to what Kristen Ciccarelli releases next!

Can I have the next book please?! lol

Loved this. This story was everything that I wanted Serpent and Dove to be. The angst. The banter. Perfection.

This was a phenomenal book. I cannot say enough good things about the characters and plotline. This is the best book that I've read so far in 2024 and I cannot wait for the second book to come out. This was the perfect combination of "Serpent and Dove" and "Defy the Night," which were also both five star books for me. The only thing that ALMOST made me lower the rating was that ending. I had a feeling that what happened would happen since that is pretty common in love triangles in fantasy books. I just wish it wasn't as abrupt as it was or that we went a different route. Like coming up with a different romantic interest in book two for that character. But I decided to overlook it since I loved the rest of the book SO MUCH.

A witch and a witch hunter.What else could you ask for? Great world building and enjoyed this a lot. It was a strong 4.5 for me and I can't wait for the second book!! Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was beyond enjoyable; and to be honest I really wasn't expecting that. I loved the dynamic, the back and forth, the plot. I really cannot wait for book 2!

Heartless Hunter
Crimson Moth
Rating: 5 Stars
✅ Witches
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Vigilante
✅ Hidden powers
I always love an enemies to lovers fantasy, and this was just about perfect. This book would be perfect for fans of Serpent & Dove, though I actually liked Heartless Hunter much more than I liked Serpent & Dove. Rune is an absolute badass as a witch and vigilante. I love her scheming abilities and the way her powers work is really interesting. The tension between Rune and Gideon is sizzling, and they have excellent chemistry. All the scenes between the two of them are perfect, and the blend of suspicion and attraction that they feel for one another works nicely and leads to some excellent banter. I sometimes can get really frustrated by the prejudices of characters who are witch hunters, but Gideon was written in a way where I could really empathize with him and not get annoyed with his character. The ending hit hard, and I will be eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Note: I received a free arc, but this review is voluntary and entirely my honest opinion of the book.

In a time where witches have fallen from being the most powerful to the hunted, only one is capable of saving as many as she can. Rune is a vapid socialite by day and the crimson moth by night. She is one of the few witches left and in a financially well off position to help others. The only problem, her best friend’s brother is a witch hunter. Will Rune be able to continue to save the last of her kind or will she be trapped in a web of her own creation?

I really wanted to like this book. The synopsis sounded great, the characters seem interesting, but I just can’t get over one serious point in this book. Rune using the blood from her monthly cycle to cast magic gives me the BIGGEST ick. Even if the rest of the book is good I could not, in good faith, recommend this to anyone without warning them of this point. When I started on chapter eight and it’s just a constant conversation about periods I had to stop. I really appreciate NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to receive and review this book but it will be a DNF at 12% in for me.

I kept seeing this book pop up in my recommendations but I held off since it’s not a complete series. I’m glad I went for it. Finished it in 2 days!

This book was an easy read, I loved the characters and the ending was pretty good. Although I did guess the twist early on- still, many things happened that surprised me.

I usually hate love triangles. I think this is because they are mostly done so poorly, like the author forces it on you just to have one. However, in this book it works, and I actually found myself unsure of who I’d want to choose if I was Rune. Although it gets resolved in the end, I thought the author did a great job with it.

Kristen Ciccarelli's *Heartless Hunter* is a captivating fantasy novel that immerses readers in a world of fierce battles, deep-seated rivalries, and a protagonist on a quest for redemption. From the very first page, Ciccarelli's evocative storytelling evokes a sense of urgency and emotional intensity, drawing readers into a tale where every decision and revelation feels charged with significance.

The story follows Eira, a skilled hunter known for her ruthless determination and unyielding resolve. As Eira embarks on a perilous journey to confront her past and uncover hidden truths, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster. You will feel her inner turmoil and conflicted emotions as she navigates treacherous landscapes and confronts formidable adversaries. Ciccarelli's portrayal of Eira's journey is deeply immersive, making you feel the weight of her choices and the consequences they entail.

Character development is a standout in *Heartless Hunter*. Eira is a complex protagonist whose layers gradually unravel throughout the novel. Her evolution from a hardened warrior to a character grappling with doubts and vulnerabilities is compelling and relatable. The relationships she forms along the way—marked by loyalty, betrayal, and unexpected alliances—add depth to the narrative, eliciting a range of emotions from empathy to suspense.

The world-building in *Heartless Hunter* is richly detailed, painting a vivid picture of a realm where magic and myth intertwine with the harsh realities of survival. Ciccarelli's prose conjures up breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and mystical creatures with such clarity that you can almost feel the chill of the forest or the heat of battle. This sensory immersion enhances the emotional impact of the story, making each triumph and setback resonate deeply.

At its core, *Heartless Hunter* explores themes of identity, forgiveness, and the search for redemption. Ciccarelli deftly weaves these themes into the fabric of Eira's quest, prompting readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and moral reckoning. The novel's exploration of these profound ideas adds layers of complexity to the plot, elevating it beyond a mere adventure tale to a deeply resonant exploration of the human condition.

As the narrative unfolds towards its climactic moments, the tension mounts and the stakes become higher. Ciccarelli expertly balances action-packed scenes with poignant moments of introspection, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. By the novel's conclusion, you will find yourself emotionally invested in Eira's fate and deeply moved by the profound revelations that shape her journey.

Kristen Ciccarelli's *Heartless Hunter* is a spellbinding fantasy novel that captivates with its compelling characters, immersive world-building, and profound exploration of themes. This book is a must-read for fans of epic adventures and stories that delve into the complexities of identity and redemption. Prepare to be swept away by Eira's courageous quest and the emotional journey that unfolds in this gripping tale.

I read this a while ago and have pushed writing this review months. Honestly feel really conflicted, the characters were likable and engaging. The Romance was sweet and had a ton of cute moments. But it all felt surface level to me.

Would definitely still recommend it and will pick up the next one.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the E-Arc in exchange for an honest review.

This book reminded me of what I fell in love with fantasy so many years ago. From the beginning, I was drawn into the world and the plight of Rune as she must balance her need for revenge against her heart. There were plenty of twists and turns, interesting world building, and of course forbidden love. If you are reader who has disappointed in the last few years of fantasy, this is one I would highly recommend!


I cannot wait to see what happens next.

What an incredible book. Has left me reeling and anxiously awaiting book 2. Gideon and Rune are my everything. They are my best friends.

I was a bit disappointed in the chemistry between the main characters. It could've been so much more, and we just didn't get that.

I liked this but found it to have some plot holes.

Rune drives me absolutely nuts, she doesn’t seem to be the brightest. I don’t understand how she is foiling the entire blood guard and rescuing witches with subpar magic. Her naivety and recklessness is a bit startling.

I also found myself being so annoyed with so many decisions. I feel like a big part of my reading experience was fuelled by frustration.

To give credit where it’s due, it kept me invested and I definitely want to continue the series. Understanding that this is definitely YA, a lot of the cheesy and unrealistic parts get a pass.

It’s a solid book for a younger audience or those who don’t look to closely at the structure and plot points.

Wow! This book blew me away! I knew it was going to be good but I didn’t think I would be so affected.

I devoured this book. It was a great story with fantastic magic that seeps from the pages. The author has a beautiful way of writing. Which made this is a fun fast read. I was truly invested and still am I will be on the edge of my seat in anticipation for book 2!

Rune may just be one of my favorite witches. She was forced to make choices that risk her life but can save the rest. We all have to wear masks but she does it with such grace. That is until an unexpected suitor makes it hard for her to keep her true self hidden. Let the magic wash over you with this book. I had a lot of feelings myself as I read it and wanting Rune to get her happily ever after.

I really liked this book, a very solid 4-4.5* read. I liked the world building, the characters and the interplay between them. But I did see the reveal/twist coming, quite early on! Only a duology, I believe. So at least only one follow up instalment in the series to wait for!