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Hearts at Play #1

Quest for Love

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Arden meet the love of her life. The problem? She’s never actually met him.

Arden's summer had been taken over by an RPG called Quest for Camelor. She spent most of the summer online, where she met a number of friends But what happens when she develops feelings for one of her online friends who she only knows by his gaming handle? Back at school now, Arden soon discovers that he is much closer than she had previously believed, but why does he wish to remain anonymous?

157 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2023

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About the author

Danielle M. Hill

11 books45 followers
Danielle M. Hill is an author and storyteller based in a small town in southern Ontario, Canada. Her stories are drama filled, swoon worthy, and magical that transport readers to new worlds and introduce them to unforgettable characters.
Danielle has been writing since she was a young girl, and her passion for storytelling has only grown stronger over the years. Her debut novel, A Kingdom of Sun and Shadow, was born out of a desire to create a world that readers could escape to and get lost in.
Danielle is a stay at home mom to her daughter and dog. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, watching Marvel movies, anime, and binge watching TV shows.
Danielle M. Hill is thrilled to share her stories with readers around the world and hopes that her books will bring joy, entertainment, and inspiration to all who read them.

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5 stars
37 (22%)
4 stars
49 (29%)
3 stars
52 (31%)
2 stars
25 (15%)
1 star
3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Esme.
1,010 reviews55 followers
August 12, 2023
A super cute and super quick read since It's only about 130 pages.

I enjoyed it a lot! The characters were all a lot of fun to read about. I loved Solana she was 100% my favorite. I loved having a more mature setting with it being 3rd year of college. I do wish the book could have been just a little bit longer since I wanted more details about her college life.

While its a good read, it was repetitive at times, there's only so many times characters can watch a movie and eat pizza before it gets a little tiresome to read.

Overall really happy I picked it up and would totally recommend!! GO READ IT!!!

Thank you again Danielle Hill for a copy of the book before it was published (IK I'm late at posting this I'm just such a slow e-reader lol) I really appreciate it!
Profile Image for Lori Collins.
149 reviews17 followers
July 29, 2023
3.5 STARS ⭐️

“Despite not having met any of these people in person, I considered all of them great friends. Online, I felt like I could open up about almost anything. It was crazy how close you could feel to people you've only ever talked to through a computer screen.”

Y’all, does this quote not remind you of the bookstagram community? Quest for Love by Danielle M. Hill is a quick little read at only 156 pages.

For those who love a college campus vibe, Quest for Love had it all; dorms, roommates, kegs, a red solo cup or two… And of course gaming! Welcome to the world of Quest for Camelor

Now I’ve never been a gamer ( I might have to defer to my husband for more info on that one), but this reminded me of the my AIM days back in college; with usernames Arden_Gamergurl and KnightEclipse we meet our MCs.

If you are looking for a sweet, clean YA romance, this is the novella for you!
Profile Image for Stephrewritten.
48 reviews7 followers
July 5, 2023
This book was AMAZING! I couldn’t put it down. There was something for everyone. I loved the romance aspect but also the showcase of friendship, and growth and love between them. It kept you guessing, all the while feeling so relatable. As a gamer myself, I really enjoyed the story line and found myself diving into the story and forgetting I was reading. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Shelby.
538 reviews119 followers
August 4, 2023
4.5 stars.

okay this was such a quick and sweet read.
i’ve never read a book like this, but it didn’t disappoint me at all! I loved seeing a FMC that’s a gamer as a lead!

Arden is easy to relate too, i adore her as a character and I loved following her on her ‘Quest For Love’ ;)
I loved the energy her best friend Solana brought to the story as well… hoping she gets a book too🤞🏼

Danielle really brought in a mini twist to keep you on your toes, i thought I figured it all out and than nope but as the story went on my theory was correct. 🤭


this truly was a phenomenal read, especially if you want a quick and easy read.

thank you so much for the arc & i cannot wait to hold this precious book in my hands & read all over again.
Profile Image for kels.
130 reviews18 followers
December 24, 2023
moral of the story is - if a guy likes pineapple on pizza he’s not the one
Profile Image for Rose.
184 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2026
⭐️ Rating - 1.5 ⭐️

💭 - This is yet another book from stuff your kindle day.

Sat around 150 pages, I started Quest for Love as a pallet cleanser while reading a lengthy dark romance series.

While short and quick was what it promised I cannot say I felt sucked in or drawn to the story in any way more than just genuine curiosity for the absurdity of the story.

Guessed the main love interest within our first introduction (as seen by my kindle highlights) which then span into a confusing sort of love triangle for really not apparent reason or at least not reason enough I felt to include it in the story.

There is no build up to the mystery online guy we are supposed to just accept him immediately and be rooting for him without any insight initially to there dynamic and the flashbacks we do get aren’t particularly romantic. The FMC herself overthinks all of his messages to an annoying point of her at one point over analyzing him saying hope you got home safe. (or something similar). That is just something people say it doesn’t mean he’s in love.

Overall glad to have gotten out my series but that is all it did for me unfortunately.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Sovine.
18 reviews2 followers
August 24, 2023
This book was absolutely Adorable, I love the story and the way it is told. I am not a gamer but I still highly enjoyed and understood everything. It’s a cute, clean, and all around fun read!
Profile Image for booksandkelly.
66 reviews7 followers
July 6, 2023
I could not stop turning the pages while reading this book!! I loved all the friendships and relationships!! There were twists I didn’t see coming 😲😲😲 Once again Danielle M Hill has written an amazing story that has sucked me in right away. I definitely recommend this book 🙌😍😍
Profile Image for Ashley Hooser.
24 reviews5 followers
August 20, 2026
Good Premise, Big Let Down

I loved the premise: A girl plays an online RPG game and falls for one of the players in her team but doesn't know who he actually is. Realizes he goes to the same school but he refuses to meet so they can keep their special relationship online as is.

Where I hoped this was going: I was so excited about this premise that I thought it must have something to do with the guy. Maybe his life is dangerous and he's keeping his distance to keep her safe. Maybe the magic of the game has something to do with the magic of his identity/ life? Gosh I just wanted so much more with this book!

What we got instead: (SPOILERS) A hot guy at school overhears that she's trying to figure out who this guys is online and pretends to be him. She feels so off with him and conflicted, not understanding how the guy she fell for online was the same guy. When she finds out it's all fake, there's no repercussion. She cries, the guy moves on. It was soooo lame. The real guy online then accidentally gets discovered as her best friends twin brother! Her friend had always said growing up that she didnt want her dating her brother but was suddenly ok with it? And the FMC virtually had no reservations over him being the brother. She got all emotional and distant over feeling betrayed and stupid. The emotions and feelings just felt so fake. I will say I like the chemistry between her and Eclipse/ Parker but would have love to see this better developed.

Writing Style: The book started with the FMC in the world of the online game and then we were never back there. I wanted more scenes in the game to show her relationship grow with Eclipse rather than be told this and that happened or this and that was said in the chat. Through out the book, I felt my eyes skimming until the main point of the book was brought up (finding Eclipse/ developing the relationship in real life). But this little novella was filled with fluff of a boring normal everyday college life with way to much information shared on interior design. I am not a skimming reader, this took an extraneous circumstance to make me into one. I felt the author was rushing through scenes and not dwelling on enough emotional connection. We'd get somewhat of a cliff hanger at the end of a chapter then the next chapter starts the next day as she's in a stupid class. Time skipped around constantly, never dwelling on moments that could be awesome or actionable in her boring life. It was such a let down to never feel like we spent anytime getting into any real connection and drama. Even the ending of the book, we got one or two moments where Parker shared his deep emotions for her but we never got it from her in return. Then the wedding was so rushed in just a few sentences! Let us readers finally enjoy a happy ending rather than rush past it to promote your next book!

Overall: This book is for those who enjoy real world romance with superficial drama and rushed commentary and little emotional connection to the characters. The premise made me believe otherwise and I fell for the trap and didn't enjoy it. I had high hopes for this book and just feel disappointed with it's direction and how it was written. I wish the author all the best and hope this isn't too critical but feedback for her future works.
Profile Image for AussieBookAddict (Mel).
321 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2023
Rating: ★★★★

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Danielle M. Hill for granting me the privilege of being an ARC reader for her captivating novel. "Quest For Love" is a literary adventure that proves to be both exhilarating and enthralling, captivating my attention from start to finish.

In this independently published gem, Arden's journey unfolds as she navigates the enigmatic realm of an online RPG, "Quest for Camelor." What begins as a summer of virtual escapism becomes a transformative odyssey where friendships are forged, and emotions take an unforeseen turn. Danielle M. Hill masterfully paints the backdrop of Arden's world, where pixels and avatars pave the way to unexpected connections.

The heart of the story revolves around Arden's captivating encounter with a mysterious gamer whose true identity remains shrouded in secrecy. As the narrative unfolds, Arden's feelings transcend the boundaries of the digital realm, weaving a tapestry of emotions that elicits both empathy and anticipation.

Hill skillfully navigates the complexities of virtual connections, juxtaposing the allure of online interactions with the tangible bonds of real life. Arden's emotions, hopes, and uncertainties are portrayed with authenticity, making her journey relatable to anyone who has explored the intricacies of love in a digital age.

With each turn of the page, "Quest For Love" delves deeper into the realms of human connection, exploring the lengths one is willing to go to unravel the enigma of a hidden identity. The pacing is well-paced, striking a harmonious balance between the digital and physical worlds, creating a narrative tempo that mirrors the heartbeat of curiosity and yearning.

Hill's writing is fluid and engaging, seamlessly drawing readers into Arden's perspective. The character dynamics are vividly portrayed, and the ensemble of friends Arden encounters throughout her virtual escapades adds depth and authenticity to the story.

Arden's experiences come to life against a backdrop of school life, which adds an element of relatability for readers navigating the intricate landscape of adolescence and self-discovery. The gradual revelations and surprises that unfold in the latter part of the book further amplify the intrigue, holding readers in suspense until the very end.

"Quest For Love" is a delightful exploration of modern relationships, seamlessly blending the allure of technology with the timeless yearning for connection and understanding. Danielle M. Hill's narrative craftsmanship shines through, weaving a tale that evokes laughter, empathy, and heartfelt introspection. If you're seeking a unique and thought-provoking tale that tugs at the strings of the heart, "Quest For Love" is a must-read that will leave you pondering the depths of virtual bonds long after the final page is turned.
Profile Image for Alisha Rowe.
737 reviews37 followers
July 4, 2026
This review was originally posted at https://tinyurl.com/3zprccba.











When Arden's best friend leaves for the summer, she decides to see what all the excitement surrounding online gaming is about. Logging into Quest for Camalor for the first time, she has no idea what she's doing until one friendly player takes her under his wing. Before long, he's introduced her to his group of friends, and what starts as simply learning the game slowly turns into something much more.

At least for Arden. As the weeks pass, she finds herself developing real feelings for the boy behind the screen. So when she discovers they attend the same college, asking to meet in person feels like the obvious next step. His answer isn't what she expected. Now Arden is left wondering if she completely misread everything between them—or if there's more going on than she realizes.

I picked this book up after downloading it for free quite a while ago and finally got around to reading it for my alphabet reading challenge. It ended up being a charming surprise.

This is a sweet young adult romance featuring college sophomores and a completely closed-door romance. As someone who spends plenty of time gaming on PC—and whose husband is also a gamer—the premise immediately appealed to me. There's just something fun about the idea of meeting someone online, building a genuine friendship through a game, and then discovering they're living in the very same town. It made the romance feel both modern and incredibly relatable.

The author also does a great job directing the reader toward one potential love interest while quietly planting clues about where the story is actually headed. I had my suspicions fairly early on, simply because it's a trope I read with some frequence, but even knowing where I thought things were going didn't take away from the enjoyment. Watching everything unfold was still satisfying, and I appreciated how naturally the mystery was woven into the romance.

Despite being only 157 pages, the story never felt rushed. The pacing works well for the length, allowing enough time to connect with the characters while still delivering a complete and satisfying romance. By the end, I found myself hoping we'd eventually get a story featuring Arden's best friend, Solana. She was a fun supporting character, and I'd happily come back to this world if she gets her own happily ever after.
Profile Image for Mireille (readingwithmrleo).
629 reviews30 followers
July 15, 2023
THE STORY | After a summer spent playing Quest for Camelor, and also mainly enjoying her friendship with her online friend on there, Arden has to admit she might have fallen for a guy she’s never met. Having no idea who he is, and only knowing his gaming handle, this seems to be a love story meant to fail. As the school year starts, she discovers he’s much closer than she thought, but he’s apparently set on staying anonymous. But why? And what if he’s not at all like she’d imagined?

Read if you like:
‣ Secret identity
‣ College romance
‣ It’s always been you
‣ YA
‣ Gaming

MY REVIEW | I loved reading this book, it brought back so many memories. It was well depicted and the story flowed nicely. I have to admit it, I was definitely the one playing online games in college (but I used to play with my cousins and my sis haha!). I do get how it can be easier to share more with stranger than IRL friends though cause I have met some of the most fantastic people ever on Bookstagram and they are as important to me as the people I see regularly. All of that to say it was quite easy to relate to all of that in the story.

The characters were fun and they had such cute relationships. It is my second book from that author, and I have to say I do enjoy the cultural references in her book cause it is always stuff I really like, so it makes me enjoy the story even more every time! This book was on the shorter side so the story really flew by and there wasn’t anything too deep but it was so easy to enjoy.

If you are looking for a super sweet love story, truly a young adult one (I feel like these days YA can be confusing!) and are in for something not too long but still engaging, this is the one for you!

Thanks so much to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rebecca Hill.
923 reviews10 followers
July 29, 2023
Quest For Love is a contemporary romance novella featuring Arden, a third year interior design student at Harvestwood College. She shares a dorm room with her best friend Solana.

Over the summer break, Arden became interested in an online came called Quest for Camelor. She's not really a gamer, but as her father left them when she was young, she struggles to form emotional connections with others. Playing with others online has allowed her to make some new friends, including one in particular: KnightEclipse.

While she doesn't know his real name, the two spent many hours talking and texting through the online platform. She really likes him and feels comfortable talking to him. When she discovers that he is attending the same college, she asks to meet up in real life. He refuses, and she feels completely rejected. She and Solara try to solve the mystery of his identify, and all signs lead to it being her high school crush, but it just doesn't feel right.

This was a really sweet young adult romance, with relatable characters, even if you're not a gamer. It is a quick and captivating read. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down.

I hope the author writes more contemporary romance as it was definitely enjoyable.

Profile Image for Beth’s Book Collection.
456 reviews30 followers
July 29, 2023
I don’t read much contemporary romance as I’m more of a fantasy girl at heart but this book was awesome.

The gaming aspect and all of the movie references were top notch, I love The Princess Bride so always thrilled to see that featured.

I loved how easy it was to read and get totally lost in. That probably has something to do with it being such a sweet natured and heart warming story.

The story was incredibly laid back despite the twists and turns with the secret identity aspect.

We join Arden on a journey to discover the identity of her crush that she has met while online dating during the summer. While on this journey, there are both happy and sad times woven together to create this adorable cozy rom-com.

A strong sense of friendship and loyalty permeated this book and it was a joy to see throughout the book from beginning to end.

This book for my was an absolute breath of fresh air and I just enjoyed being along for the ride.

I received an arc of this book and I can confirm that this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Kansas.
397 reviews4 followers
August 4, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up

I had intended on reading this ARC in time for pub day last week, but life was happening and I’m getting around to it several days late. However, I think it was perfect timing for me to enjoy it enough to round the 3.5 stars up for an official 4 star rating on GoodReads.

This was a quick and easy read - I read this novella in about an hour and a half - and it was a cute little college romance. My only real complaint is that I’d have liked a few more chapters toward the end. I think 3 weeks pass between chapters 14 & 15 and then several months between chapters 15 & 16. I personally would have enjoyed this one more if the author would have maybe done a POV flip for a few chapters to let us inside the head of our MMC as the entire story is told from the FMC’s point of view.

All in all, it was a light and fluffy read and I just really think I needed that today! If that sounds like the escape you need right now, I’d definitely recommend this one.

Thanks so much to the author for a free copy of the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Rieka.
392 reviews8 followers
July 31, 2023
This book was really cute! It was an easy single session read and flowed so smoothly at the perfect pace. I loved the love story that unfolded and the growth we seen in the characters as they found confidence in themselves and the courage to put trust in others. As a gamer myself I really connected with the plot of this story and love how it tied into Arden's journey. I recommend this book if you're looking for a sweet love story!

Arden we found out right of the bat hated changed and didn't let people get close to her often outside of her best friend, Salone and Salone's twin Parker. It doesn't take long for use to be introduced to Holden either even if he isn't a fan favorite he plays a huge role in Arden's self growth. Even when the road got rocky and certain characters became sneaky just to try to put another notch in their belt the FMC stood up for herself but also put her guard back up.
Profile Image for Candybookclub.
49 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2024
I loved this short story featuring our FMC Arden 🩷 She has fallen in love with someone she’s never meet before or has she?! I like Arden’s inner monologue. She has a fun time at harvestwood college with her best friend. She was never the really into video games but she heard the name of one and was totally intrigued… Quest for Camelor has taken over her life and she falls for a player in the game. I loved following her story and the way it ended! I loved who her love interest turned out to be. There were some-bumps Arden had to deal with along the way, but it was fun to read. I even wish there was more to the story. I will definitely recommend this cute romance short story. I look forward to reading more books by Danielle Hill.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Myranda | bookswithmyranda.
409 reviews12 followers
July 21, 2023
“Online, I felt like I could open up about almost anything. It was crazy how close you could feel to people you’ve only ever talked to through a computer screen.”

Arden is an interior design student who spent the summer playing an online game, Quest for Camelor. Here, she developed friendships with people she had never met. Of the bonds she created, Arden found herself drawn romantically to user KnightEclipse. The problem? She doesn’t know his real name or what he looks like. When Arden stumbles upon a library computer with KnightEclipse’s account still logged in, she realizes her love interest is closer than she thought.

This novella was cute and sweet! I was able to read this in one sitting because I was just dying to see how it played out. As a gamer myself, I could relate to Arden’s closeness to her online friends. I’ll admit that I have met several people in person through online games and, yes, have dated some as well after we met in person. My fiancé and his best man met through online gaming (but don’t tell him I told you 😏).

This was an enjoyable read with a guaranteed HEA. There’s no spice, so this is perfect for those who like clean, heartfelt romances.

Thank you so much to the author for the ARC!
Profile Image for SiSi ❤️.
306 reviews13 followers
July 25, 2023
A simple and cute read! My only issue was it seeming rushed since it was a short read but other than that, it was good read.
It's always nice to put a face to the person you've been talking to online, to wonder if you really connect with them in person the way you do online. It's nice to have the chance to actually meet the person you've been playing an online game with, not everyone gets to even if they want to. It was relatable in the way of wanting to know who you've been talking to for months. Honestly my favorite part of the book had to be the epilogue because who doesn't love a happily ever after?
Profile Image for Frommailenesbookshelf .
360 reviews7 followers
July 28, 2023
Thank you for this ARC! 💕

This book was so good! Arden is in her third year of college, and all summer, she played an online computer game that she was determined to know how to play. She connects with one of the players, EclipseKnight, so much that when she finds out they go to the same college, she's determined to find out who he is! The problem? EclipseKnight doesn't want to meet in person. What is he hiding?!

I loved the plot twist, Arden's friendships, and the setup for maybe the next story (based on that ending!). It's a short read, but it's worth reading!

📚 Quick Read
📚 Romcom
📚 College Romance
📚 Online Gaming
Profile Image for Alexandra Trachsler.
140 reviews8 followers
April 10, 2024
This novella was so cute! I love Arden and Solana’s friendship so much😩 cute little romance about two people who meet through a PC game and end up falling in love🥺 the way Holden treated Arden made me so mad though! Dude is a real piece of work😤 I definitely enjoyed trying to figure out who the guy was especially once he said he knew Arden already. I had a feeling it was the person it ended up being but I was definitely unsure for a while. So so cute and I definitely recommend if you’re looking for a cute short little romance🥰
Profile Image for Sydnee Birkeland.
86 reviews
July 10, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC for this book and it was sooo cute! Reading about Arden and her journey was so fun. Even if you aren’t a gamer, it is super easy to relate to Arden! The feelings she experiences, and the college experiences are things that take me back to my first few years in college. Trying to navigate new feelings, and friendships.

I highly recommend checking out QFL if you are looking for a fun, sweet read. 💗
Profile Image for Emily 📖 .
285 reviews5 followers
October 14, 2023
As a person who met her now husband through online dating this book totally warmed my heart. I love how detailed the story was with necessary plot details but quickly continued. The epilogue was great, it gave me a bit of closure as to how their future continued together. Really liked this one!

(Kindle)
Profile Image for Tori Phillips.
3 reviews
March 27, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down! I love the friendship between Arden and Solana and the way they love and support each other. This book had me guessing and on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who HE was! Such a great, quick read. The ending made it seem like the story isn’t over yet. Can’t wait to hopefully read more with these characters. 💖
Profile Image for Ashley Merrick.
164 reviews2 followers
July 13, 2023
I was given an advanced reader copy in return for an honest review, and I gotta say this was super cute!!!! I really enjoyed it. I have loved every book u have read by Danielle and this one just gets added to that list. Good job!!!
18 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2023
This was a fast read with something for everyone.

I very much enjoyed the cute aspects of the relationship between the characters.

Definitely a good beach day read. One that you don't want to put down. Another great book by Danielle.
Profile Image for Tracy.
213 reviews
September 28, 2023
Gaming couple

I'm glad I downloaded this book from stuff your kindle day. I have read two of Danielle hills other books and this one is just as a good. If you like gaming and are into college romance I highly recommend this.
Profile Image for Sonja.
52 reviews2 followers
January 29, 2024
3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

A perfect filler novella. Super cute. Super cheesy. But I really enjoyed it. The grammatical errors is what dropped a quarter star for me. There wasn’t very many, but the ones that were there should’ve been easily noticed.
Profile Image for DarknessLighttt.
375 reviews48 followers
September 2, 2026
Quite nice

It'a a nice book, but felt flat. The characters got together at the end and mostly the story focuses on finding who the KnightEclipse is. I just wished the author added more about their relationship, maybe in that way the story would've been more interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews