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Distant Heart
Cor Night is upon us.
It's the one night a year when even the school encourages the Black Harts to act out on their vices, but Illya Carmine isn't interested. That is until he sees Rexton Xiphus walk through the doors of Sacred Cor University.
What starts as mild interest quickly blooms into a desperate hunt for ownership as Illya tracks Rexton through the party. But Rex has a game of his own in mind, and giving into the viciously attractive Black Hart easily isn't on his agenda. Neither of them is willing to back down, but there's only one rule for Cor Night.
Be vicious with your vices.
Trigger This is a stand-alone dark romance novella which means there are many themes that some might find disturbing. Some of these include, but are not limited to, dub-con, violence, a seriously obsessed male lead, a male lead witht a secret, and explicit sexual content not suitable for all readers. Please be sure to read the Author's Note for a complete list of warnings! HEA guarantee!
It's the one night a year when even the school encourages the Black Harts to act out on their vices, but Illya Carmine isn't interested. That is until he sees Rexton Xiphus walk through the doors of Sacred Cor University.
What starts as mild interest quickly blooms into a desperate hunt for ownership as Illya tracks Rexton through the party. But Rex has a game of his own in mind, and giving into the viciously attractive Black Hart easily isn't on his agenda. Neither of them is willing to back down, but there's only one rule for Cor Night.
Be vicious with your vices.
Trigger This is a stand-alone dark romance novella which means there are many themes that some might find disturbing. Some of these include, but are not limited to, dub-con, violence, a seriously obsessed male lead, a male lead witht a secret, and explicit sexual content not suitable for all readers. Please be sure to read the Author's Note for a complete list of warnings! HEA guarantee!
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2025
97 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Chani Lynn Feener
68 books1,534 followersLibrarians, please don't add books. I stay up to date and add them myself and have ended up with many multiple copies because others add them later. Thank you!
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 8, 2025
4.5 stars.
This was an incredibly enjoyable read! I don’t know what magic the author weaves into her books, but I always devour them in no time. She’s definitely one of my favorites, especially with her knack for crafting dark romance that perfectly aligns with my tastes. It strikes just the right balance—neither too vanilla nor crossing into extremes.
I had eagerly anticipated this novel, especially after reading the prologue some time ago, and it definitely exceeded my expectations. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the author masterfully balances the plot with intimate scenes.
Initially, I struggled to recall Rexton, but it quickly clicked for me how this series ties into the Devils of Vitality series. I appreciated how, in this installment, we get to delve deeper into Rexton’s character and development.
Illya was an unexpected gem; he started off as the typical brooding love interest but evolved into a genuinely healthy partner (at least by the standards of this universe). I thoroughly enjoyed their relationship, and the twist at the end provided the deeper connection I craved.
What else can I say? I’m counting down the days until the next books in this series are released because I know I’ll devour them just like all the author’s works.
This was an incredibly enjoyable read! I don’t know what magic the author weaves into her books, but I always devour them in no time. She’s definitely one of my favorites, especially with her knack for crafting dark romance that perfectly aligns with my tastes. It strikes just the right balance—neither too vanilla nor crossing into extremes.
I had eagerly anticipated this novel, especially after reading the prologue some time ago, and it definitely exceeded my expectations. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the author masterfully balances the plot with intimate scenes.
Initially, I struggled to recall Rexton, but it quickly clicked for me how this series ties into the Devils of Vitality series. I appreciated how, in this installment, we get to delve deeper into Rexton’s character and development.
Illya was an unexpected gem; he started off as the typical brooding love interest but evolved into a genuinely healthy partner (at least by the standards of this universe). I thoroughly enjoyed their relationship, and the twist at the end provided the deeper connection I craved.
What else can I say? I’m counting down the days until the next books in this series are released because I know I’ll devour them just like all the author’s works.
February 14, 2025
Once a year, Cor Night was held on campus, a massive party that lasted from night until morning. It was promoted as a night of romance and celebration of love and friendship, but in actuality, it was more like an invitation to partake in debauchery and sin.
For one night, the Black Harts get to choose anyone for Praeda. With a single glance, Illya knows that Rexton is going to be his, no matter what it takes to convince him.
If a hunt was what his prey was after, then Illya wouldn’t disappoint.
Distant Heart is a animosity/strangers to lovers book with primal play, dubcon, manipulation and no sharing. There is a cute little twist that I won't spoil, that added a fun element to the book. I'm very excited to read more in this series... the concept of the hot, wealthy, powerful and elite in society taking who and what they want is classic Chani Lynn Feener and always very fun to read.
Rating: 4
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 3.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
February 27, 2025
3.75 stars⭐️ the twist really saved this for me….enjoyable enough to scratch that chani itch, but it only made me crave a full length novel even more😩😩 and apparently there’s one in the works for this planet👀 can’t wait!
February 14, 2025
This definitely intrigued me for the next series coming from Chani, but Illya and Rexton didn't really grab me like other couples/polycules in this story universe have.
The twist was interesting but it kind of threw me, and I liked the primal play, but for a really short story there was too much repetition of the chase and dominate sex scene sequences.
It also wasn't really explained what the Praeda is or how anyone knows that they've been chosen before the deadline of sunrise.... I think I needed just a bit more explanation and a bit more emotion between the two to make me feel more connected to them and their story.
I'm also intrigued to see two new authors writing for this specific series in Chani's story universe.
The twist was interesting but it kind of threw me, and I liked the primal play, but for a really short story there was too much repetition of the chase and dominate sex scene sequences.
It also wasn't really explained what the Praeda is or how anyone knows that they've been chosen before the deadline of sunrise.... I think I needed just a bit more explanation and a bit more emotion between the two to make me feel more connected to them and their story.
I'm also intrigued to see two new authors writing for this specific series in Chani's story universe.
February 17, 2025
Tropes: dark romance
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: Noncon, dubcon, chasing, mild primal play, bondage
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: see the kinks (but it really was consensual), sex outside in snow
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Nothing came up. (Btw, for people concerned about OPD, the twist had nothing to do with OPD)
4 stars
I say this all the time when I'm reviewing novellas, but I am a tough person to please when it comes to novellas. I feel like it's tough for an author to fit enough story and development into the limited pages of a novella for it to satisfy me as a story. So I'm always a bit more generous when it comes to rating novellas to compensate for that.
This novella takes place at a party that is a college tradition of debauchery with the veneer of romance. It's about the elite claiming someone for the night, which historically in this reality ends up being more about debauchery. It's set in the author's Vitality universe, on a different planet though. Illya is one of the a light and he sets his sights on Rexton. Rexton pushes back against his advances and they end up having a competition for his freedom and engaging in some primal play chasing, that culminates in Rexton being caught and them having a sex marathon.
I feel like I can't say much more about the plot, because there is a twist in it, and I don't want to spoil that.
I thought this was an enjoyable novella. There was an interesting dynamic between the characters and it was a spicy read. I was intrigued by the appearance of Ryker and his love interest, that sounds promising. There were no typos which was fantastic, because this author struggles with typos in other books.
I wasn't a huge fan of the twist because I felt like it made something unrealistic, I was like, a CLF hero agreed to THAT? And it kind of undid your sense of getting to know the characters.
Also, I have to joke about this. As someone who lives in Canada and has been going through extreme snowfall this week, I was not the person to throw an outdoor in the snow sex scene in front of. There is no romance for me in snow sex.
Some notable moments:
"Illya: First one to tell me where he is gets my car. He attached the photo and hit send, but not a second after, another thought crossed his mind and he sent another comment before anyone had even had the chance to read his first. Illya: First one to touch him gets run over by my car."
"“You can’t honestly think this ends tonight, can you? Come on, xa’us, you can’t be that dense. This is our start. Our real one. I’m going to tie you to me and keep you here forever. Try to flee, see what happens. Maybe you’ll even like it. Like all the ways I intend to chain you to my side.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: Noncon, dubcon, chasing, mild primal play, bondage
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: see the kinks (but it really was consensual), sex outside in snow
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Nothing came up. (Btw, for people concerned about OPD, the twist had nothing to do with OPD)
4 stars
I say this all the time when I'm reviewing novellas, but I am a tough person to please when it comes to novellas. I feel like it's tough for an author to fit enough story and development into the limited pages of a novella for it to satisfy me as a story. So I'm always a bit more generous when it comes to rating novellas to compensate for that.
This novella takes place at a party that is a college tradition of debauchery with the veneer of romance. It's about the elite claiming someone for the night, which historically in this reality ends up being more about debauchery. It's set in the author's Vitality universe, on a different planet though. Illya is one of the a light and he sets his sights on Rexton. Rexton pushes back against his advances and they end up having a competition for his freedom and engaging in some primal play chasing, that culminates in Rexton being caught and them having a sex marathon.
I feel like I can't say much more about the plot, because there is a twist in it, and I don't want to spoil that.
I thought this was an enjoyable novella. There was an interesting dynamic between the characters and it was a spicy read. I was intrigued by the appearance of Ryker and his love interest, that sounds promising. There were no typos which was fantastic, because this author struggles with typos in other books.
I wasn't a huge fan of the twist because I felt like it made something unrealistic, I was like, a CLF hero agreed to THAT? And it kind of undid your sense of getting to know the characters.
Also, I have to joke about this. As someone who lives in Canada and has been going through extreme snowfall this week, I was not the person to throw an outdoor in the snow sex scene in front of. There is no romance for me in snow sex.
Some notable moments:
"Illya: First one to tell me where he is gets my car. He attached the photo and hit send, but not a second after, another thought crossed his mind and he sent another comment before anyone had even had the chance to read his first. Illya: First one to touch him gets run over by my car."
"“You can’t honestly think this ends tonight, can you? Come on, xa’us, you can’t be that dense. This is our start. Our real one. I’m going to tie you to me and keep you here forever. Try to flee, see what happens. Maybe you’ll even like it. Like all the ways I intend to chain you to my side.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
February 10, 2025
I had the pleasure of proofreading this novella for Chani. It was such a good little story and the perfect introduction to the author’s new series!
Illya is a member of the Black Harts - an elite group of students within Sacred Cor University. He’s utterly uninterested in participating in the night of debauchery that has been set up for the students to find a Praeda (think Valentine, but darker) but that all changes when Rex walks in. Utterly drawn to him, Illya is determined to bend Rex to his will… even if that means chasing him through the night 😏
I loved Rex and Illya, both stubborn and determined to get what they want and the twist at the end? PERFECTION 🤌🏻 I devoured this novella and you will too! I am so excited for the new series and will be first in line to read it when it releases!
Read Distant Heart: Vicious Valentine for:
✨ Sci-fi romance, college setting
✨ Two stubborn as heck MCs
✨ A night of… romance?
✨ Primal play
✨ Dub-con
✨ Possessiveness
✨ Caretaking
✨ Perfect start to the new series!
This novella is available on 14th Feb 💕
Illya is a member of the Black Harts - an elite group of students within Sacred Cor University. He’s utterly uninterested in participating in the night of debauchery that has been set up for the students to find a Praeda (think Valentine, but darker) but that all changes when Rex walks in. Utterly drawn to him, Illya is determined to bend Rex to his will… even if that means chasing him through the night 😏
I loved Rex and Illya, both stubborn and determined to get what they want and the twist at the end? PERFECTION 🤌🏻 I devoured this novella and you will too! I am so excited for the new series and will be first in line to read it when it releases!
Read Distant Heart: Vicious Valentine for:
✨ Sci-fi romance, college setting
✨ Two stubborn as heck MCs
✨ A night of… romance?
✨ Primal play
✨ Dub-con
✨ Possessiveness
✨ Caretaking
✨ Perfect start to the new series!
This novella is available on 14th Feb 💕
February 14, 2025
Ellery's cousin Rex is visiting from Vitality, visiting Sacrum Cor University on Cor Night. Ellery is one of eight "Black Harts", a privileged leader group and another "Black Heart", Illya spots Rex and claims him. It's a rite of passage, a primal hunt allowed by the planet and Rex is Illya's prey. Told with Chani's usual dark possessiveness and ownership spirit, this novella grabs you and the tingles spread. It's the chase, it's a game, it's a claiming. I loved this!
February 17, 2025
"There was something about Rexton that called to him on a visceral level. Something that reignited that spark for Praeda that had withered away. His light blond, almost silver hair appeared silky to the touch even in photographs, and his eyes, a vivid lilac, were even more enthralling in person. As soon as Illya had spotted Rexton enter the building, he’d recognized him. Wanted him."
Distant Heart: A Dark MM Sci-Fi College Romance by Chani Lynn Feener is an introductory novella to the author's next dark MM sci-fi series Vicious Valentine and gives up a sneak peak into the Black Harts, the characters that will be headlining that series, which is set around the Sacred Cor University.
Whilst this is a new series, some understanding of other planets and characters in the author's previous MM sci-fi series would be helpful.
What To Expect
🖤MM dark romance
🖤Sci-fi
🖤Novella
🖤Dub-con/non-con
🖤Dark themes
🖤ALL THE SPICE
🖤Obsessive MMC
🖤HEA
Novellas aren't really my thing, but I'm looking forward to the series!
4 stars
Distant Heart: A Dark MM Sci-Fi College Romance by Chani Lynn Feener is an introductory novella to the author's next dark MM sci-fi series Vicious Valentine and gives up a sneak peak into the Black Harts, the characters that will be headlining that series, which is set around the Sacred Cor University.
Whilst this is a new series, some understanding of other planets and characters in the author's previous MM sci-fi series would be helpful.
What To Expect
🖤MM dark romance
🖤Sci-fi
🖤Novella
🖤Dub-con/non-con
🖤Dark themes
🖤ALL THE SPICE
🖤Obsessive MMC
🖤HEA
Novellas aren't really my thing, but I'm looking forward to the series!
4 stars
February 19, 2025
I loved it! There was a lot of spice, but not too much. It was in great balance with the plot which was awesome. I especially liked the connection and chemistry between Rexton and Illya. The sex was HOT! I have loved all of chani lynn feener's books and will continue to do so. I hope she never stops writing. 5/5
I received this book as a free ebook and leave this honest review voluntarily.
I received this book as a free ebook and leave this honest review voluntarily.
February 26, 2025
Whatever (3.5) 😌 I'm just a girl
April 15, 2025
2.75!! rtc
‧₊ ⌗ ♠️ ⋅ ˚✮ pre-read 15.04.25
lowkey im bored reading so this is ever after.... so im starting this🙂↕️
‧₊ ⌗ ♠️ ⋅ ˚✮ pre-read 15.04.25
lowkey im bored reading so this is ever after.... so im starting this🙂↕️
February 14, 2025
I’m in love with everything this woman writes
December 17, 2025
December 2025
Kindle edition
Re-read to see if I could get anything about the other Blackhearts or Ares in particular. Just the initial suggestion.
Feb 2025
Kindle edition
Whoop! Popcorn! I'm gonna re-read this one at some point. Can't remember if it was mentioned Rex had a BF in Flix's story. The reveal was cool. I was hoping Flix and Illya would meet and he did mention popcorn. I liked how quickly Aneski put a stop to that. Seems like a fun friend group. Nice little short connected to the Devils of vitality.
Kindle edition
Re-read to see if I could get anything about the other Blackhearts or Ares in particular. Just the initial suggestion.
Feb 2025
Kindle edition
Whoop! Popcorn! I'm gonna re-read this one at some point. Can't remember if it was mentioned Rex had a BF in Flix's story. The reveal was cool. I was hoping Flix and Illya would meet and he did mention popcorn. I liked how quickly Aneski put a stop to that. Seems like a fun friend group. Nice little short connected to the Devils of vitality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
This book is a really great gateway novel to meeting the author, Chani Lynn Feener. It's a novella that explores a relationship that is being built at an event made for that very purpose.
I like that for new readers, it's a great way to investigate the world and writing style without having to commit to a full book. And for those of us who are already massive fans, it gives us a moment in time to look at what is happening somewhere in the Feener-verse.
I liked the idea of Cor Night, and I hope to see it explored more (perhaps it is and I simply haven't gotten to that book yet as I'm working my way through Feener's books) and Rexton was easily a fun character to get to know. He was matched well with Illya Carmine, and the little plot twist at the end did get a laugh out of me. I know better than to expect this author not to add something fun to find out within the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I like that for new readers, it's a great way to investigate the world and writing style without having to commit to a full book. And for those of us who are already massive fans, it gives us a moment in time to look at what is happening somewhere in the Feener-verse.
I liked the idea of Cor Night, and I hope to see it explored more (perhaps it is and I simply haven't gotten to that book yet as I'm working my way through Feener's books) and Rexton was easily a fun character to get to know. He was matched well with Illya Carmine, and the little plot twist at the end did get a laugh out of me. I know better than to expect this author not to add something fun to find out within the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 25, 2025
6 / 10 ⭐️
Relato corto / Dark Eomance / MM / Ciencia Ficción / Erótica
Una vez al año, en la universidad Sacrum Cor, se celebra la Cor Night donde los Black Hart pueden perseguir a cualquiera de los participantes y llevar a cabo sus deseos mas ocultos.
Es un relato muy corto que forma parte de una saga mas grande, asi que en realidad no he entendido mucho el rol de los personajes.
Y si descartamos la trama solo queda escenas muy dark. Luego se acalara que un juego de roles pero todo muy raro.
Supongo que es una de esas cosas que te encuentras en kindle unlimited gratis para engancharte a los libros principales.
Relato corto / Dark Eomance / MM / Ciencia Ficción / Erótica
Una vez al año, en la universidad Sacrum Cor, se celebra la Cor Night donde los Black Hart pueden perseguir a cualquiera de los participantes y llevar a cabo sus deseos mas ocultos.
Es un relato muy corto que forma parte de una saga mas grande, asi que en realidad no he entendido mucho el rol de los personajes.
Y si descartamos la trama solo queda escenas muy dark. Luego se acalara que un juego de roles pero todo muy raro.
Supongo que es una de esas cosas que te encuentras en kindle unlimited gratis para engancharte a los libros principales.
February 23, 2025
This is my first time rating a book by Chani Lynn Feener 3⭐️
This was just… Something was lacking, I can pinpoint what but something was missing in this book.
This was just… Something was lacking, I can pinpoint what but something was missing in this book.
March 10, 2025
5 stars
Loved this story for Rex and the little twist at the end was great. I'm excited to see more of the Black Hearts in future books.
Loved this story for Rex and the little twist at the end was great. I'm excited to see more of the Black Hearts in future books.
February 13, 2025
4,5/5
This was a very fun read and honestly what I needed right now!! Distant Heart features Rex (Aneski's friend from DoV) and Illya (first seen here). Events revolves around a night called Cor Night which is kind of an old tradition of the planet. It is an old tradition of "claiming" someone, especially if you are on of the powerful ones of the planet. Rex, who is from Vitality, gets the interest of the Black Harts' leader from the very first time.
Honestly at first I thought "why not a full length novel?!?!" but at the end it all makes sense. It does move fast but I don't think ot takes anything from the book. It is cute in a CLF way if you know what I mean!! :) It is short but quite full and truly devoured it.
I very much missed reading CLF and this also reminded me how I love her universe. If you have not read Devils of Vitality yet I would advise you to read the series first, while it might not be necessary to get this book it is quite a ride and I'm sure you will love it.
I can not wait to get the rest of the series!!
I received a review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the free copy! :)
This was a very fun read and honestly what I needed right now!! Distant Heart features Rex (Aneski's friend from DoV) and Illya (first seen here). Events revolves around a night called Cor Night which is kind of an old tradition of the planet. It is an old tradition of "claiming" someone, especially if you are on of the powerful ones of the planet. Rex, who is from Vitality, gets the interest of the Black Harts' leader from the very first time.
Honestly at first I thought "why not a full length novel?!?!" but at the end it all makes sense. It does move fast but I don't think ot takes anything from the book. It is cute in a CLF way if you know what I mean!! :) It is short but quite full and truly devoured it.
I very much missed reading CLF and this also reminded me how I love her universe. If you have not read Devils of Vitality yet I would advise you to read the series first, while it might not be necessary to get this book it is quite a ride and I'm sure you will love it.
I can not wait to get the rest of the series!!
I received a review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the free copy! :)
February 23, 2025
My main complaint while reading this book was that I didn’t get the motivation and obsession from Illya in the way I always get from Chani Lynn Feener leads. Thankfully, there was an actual reason for this that had me say out loud “OOoooh” when I got to the end. Maybe other people will enjoy the suspense and questions, but for me, I would have enjoyed the book more if I knew the twist the whole time. So, not my favorite, but I appreciated that my complaint was addressed totally by the plot.
Overall, a fine addition to Chani Lynn Feener’s catalogue. I’m not sure that I’ll read the whole series with the different authors (tho it is a cool concept!), but I will definitely be tuning in for Ares’s book.
Overall, a fine addition to Chani Lynn Feener’s catalogue. I’m not sure that I’ll read the whole series with the different authors (tho it is a cool concept!), but I will definitely be tuning in for Ares’s book.
December 4, 2025
a quick read for Chani fans
If you’re used to Chani’s more epic-feeling, world building, drenched in culture and history works, but happen to be short on time, this should scratch your itch, just be prepared for less of the finer details. After reading so many of her books, this one did feel quite short, but it had an ending that eased into the chaos without requiring the usual adjustment most characters need to go through in order for the reader to find some semblance of comfort with whatever disturbing things present themselves.
The writing is impeccable and the story didn’t feel incomplete on the whole, but it does feel strange reading the novella version of her works. Not a ton happens, which feels like opening a bag of your favorite chips and seeing that there’s only 10 inside. Still delicious, and not so little that you’re furious, just feels a little meh due to what you’re used to.
With that said, this is just the result of expectations from this author’s novels, something kind of impossible to fit into 100 pages, and not a reflection of the entertainment value.
Illya and Rexton might surprise you by the time you finish this one. The ending was a great way to wrap things up, and definitely sets a nice stage for Broken Obsession, which I can’t wait to read.
If you like Chani’s books, you’ll like this.
What are you standing around for? Go on, read it!
If you’re used to Chani’s more epic-feeling, world building, drenched in culture and history works, but happen to be short on time, this should scratch your itch, just be prepared for less of the finer details. After reading so many of her books, this one did feel quite short, but it had an ending that eased into the chaos without requiring the usual adjustment most characters need to go through in order for the reader to find some semblance of comfort with whatever disturbing things present themselves.
The writing is impeccable and the story didn’t feel incomplete on the whole, but it does feel strange reading the novella version of her works. Not a ton happens, which feels like opening a bag of your favorite chips and seeing that there’s only 10 inside. Still delicious, and not so little that you’re furious, just feels a little meh due to what you’re used to.
With that said, this is just the result of expectations from this author’s novels, something kind of impossible to fit into 100 pages, and not a reflection of the entertainment value.
Illya and Rexton might surprise you by the time you finish this one. The ending was a great way to wrap things up, and definitely sets a nice stage for Broken Obsession, which I can’t wait to read.
If you like Chani’s books, you’ll like this.
What are you standing around for? Go on, read it!
May 22, 2025
A short one, but quite spicy.
It's fast paced, and introduce new characters which I believe will be explored further in Following books.
I think it's for that reason I was not overly enthusiastic with this one, as it's so short I didn't really have time to get attached to the characters. But looking forward to Chani's future books as always
It's fast paced, and introduce new characters which I believe will be explored further in Following books.
I think it's for that reason I was not overly enthusiastic with this one, as it's so short I didn't really have time to get attached to the characters. But looking forward to Chani's future books as always
February 14, 2025
I think reading this without knowing anything about this planet was a mistake. Even though it takes place before Ares books, I feel like I would have enjoyed this so much more if I read it after. So, I'll read it again then to see ^_^
February 25, 2025
3 stars ˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
A quick and smutty novella🔥
I liked the plot twist🤭
“I like being yours,” Rex confessed, turning in Illya’s hold. “And I like that you’re mine.” 🫶🏻
A quick and smutty novella🔥
I liked the plot twist🤭
“I like being yours,” Rex confessed, turning in Illya’s hold. “And I like that you’re mine.” 🫶🏻
March 21, 2025
4.5 stars
September 2, 2025
was good but due to the length, couldn’t connect much with the characters but still liked it!!
February 15, 2025
Short but sooo good!
I love Distant Heart. This story is a little dark and hot af. It's so yummy how obsessed and possessive Illya is right from the start. He's so sexy. And Rex is adorable. I love them.
I love that little plot twist I was not expecting. I just want more already!
I love Distant Heart. This story is a little dark and hot af. It's so yummy how obsessed and possessive Illya is right from the start. He's so sexy. And Rex is adorable. I love them.
I love that little plot twist I was not expecting. I just want more already!
February 23, 2025
Not much to say about this since this is a novella.
I ate up all 93 pages of this in an hour. It was a very fun read and the chemistry between Ilya and Rexton was great. I wasn’t a fan of the twist though, which explains why my rating is no higher than four stars. Otherwise, this was a fast-paced, spicy story and I enjoyed reading it. Very excited to read Chani’s next book.
Final rating: 4 stars
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I ate up all 93 pages of this in an hour. It was a very fun read and the chemistry between Ilya and Rexton was great. I wasn’t a fan of the twist though, which explains why my rating is no higher than four stars. Otherwise, this was a fast-paced, spicy story and I enjoyed reading it. Very excited to read Chani’s next book.
Final rating: 4 stars
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2025
At last, back to the possessive-obsessive CLF I adore reading. I enjoyed this novella a lot, it’s pure entertainment. Please mind the in-depth TWs, this is a non-con/dub-con type extreme romance and won’t be for everyone. Touch-him-and-die sensibility, with a twist. The story stood alone just fine for me, though I believe these are minor characters mentioned in other books; I didn’t remember them (and might have skipped the book that featured them).
“Cor Night is upon us...” Set in college, Sacred Cor University, to be precise, with students called the Black Harts who rule the school. For one night of the year, anyone who agrees and steps foot on campus can be hunted, taken, used in any way any of these boys desire.... Jaded MC Illya (or Ilya? It was spelled both ways...) is looking over the crowd, bored as usual, when a certain person catches his eye...and the hunt is On. That instant laser-focus shot straight into my reading veins and burned up the pages.
No way is Rexton getting away. No matter how he prevaricates, scoffs, runs...incites Illya’s primal response... But maybe Rexton’s got a different way of hunting... Yup. It’s a hell of a night, and then I learned something I didn’t know or suspect, and that made it even more fun.
I believe both characters inhabit the Devils of Vitality world, though they live on different planets. But maybe not for long...
HFN but clear HEA leanings, slice of F’d up life into the extreme passions of this world. Absolutely no others or hint of anyone else, very possessive-obsessive, safe for me. Recommended. Just wish it went deeper and longer.
My thanks to BookSirens for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
“Cor Night is upon us...” Set in college, Sacred Cor University, to be precise, with students called the Black Harts who rule the school. For one night of the year, anyone who agrees and steps foot on campus can be hunted, taken, used in any way any of these boys desire.... Jaded MC Illya (or Ilya? It was spelled both ways...) is looking over the crowd, bored as usual, when a certain person catches his eye...and the hunt is On. That instant laser-focus shot straight into my reading veins and burned up the pages.
No way is Rexton getting away. No matter how he prevaricates, scoffs, runs...incites Illya’s primal response... But maybe Rexton’s got a different way of hunting... Yup. It’s a hell of a night, and then I learned something I didn’t know or suspect, and that made it even more fun.
I believe both characters inhabit the Devils of Vitality world, though they live on different planets. But maybe not for long...
HFN but clear HEA leanings, slice of F’d up life into the extreme passions of this world. Absolutely no others or hint of anyone else, very possessive-obsessive, safe for me. Recommended. Just wish it went deeper and longer.
My thanks to BookSirens for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
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February 17, 20252 ★
i thought i was gonna like this one. i went into it blind.
it was okay in the beginning then i started to skim after the half way point.
i like how possessive the mmc is and i enjoyed watching him care for the other mmc.
i think i just couldn't get down with the primal play and dub-con. they were written well and i usually don't mind dub-con, but for some reason, i wasn't immersed in this story.
it could be that i didn't like how rex?(i hope i'm not mixing them up.) didn't get a say in any decisions made. i found myself thinking "at least lake let nix create his own terms for some things." (if you don't know lake and nix, they're characters from the 'demons of foxglove grove series' by chani). as i was reading distant heart, i sensed some similarities in the characters' actions. some things i liked, other things made me want to go back to reading book 3 of the foxglove grove series.
i've recently gotten into reading chani's books and i like her writing so that's not an issue. i just don't think this story is for me.
the demons of foxglove grove series is my introduction to the author and i really like that series so far. i'm definitely gonna read more from chani.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
i thought i was gonna like this one. i went into it blind.
it was okay in the beginning then i started to skim after the half way point.
i like how possessive the mmc is and i enjoyed watching him care for the other mmc.
i think i just couldn't get down with the primal play and dub-con. they were written well and i usually don't mind dub-con, but for some reason, i wasn't immersed in this story.
it could be that i didn't like how rex?(i hope i'm not mixing them up.) didn't get a say in any decisions made. i found myself thinking "at least lake let nix create his own terms for some things." (if you don't know lake and nix, they're characters from the 'demons of foxglove grove series' by chani). as i was reading distant heart, i sensed some similarities in the characters' actions. some things i liked, other things made me want to go back to reading book 3 of the foxglove grove series.
i've recently gotten into reading chani's books and i like her writing so that's not an issue. i just don't think this story is for me.
the demons of foxglove grove series is my introduction to the author and i really like that series so far. i'm definitely gonna read more from chani.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2025
Distant Heart" serves as a promising introduction to Chani Lynn Feener's upcoming series, though it didn't quite resonate with me as one of her strongest pairings. I appreciated the timing of reading it on Valentine's Day, given its thematic relevance. However, the narrative felt somewhat repetitive of her previous works.
The novella explores the familiar tropes of animosity-turned-love, primal play, dub-con, and manipulation, all set against the backdrop of a powerful elite claiming what they desire. While these elements are characteristic of Feener's style, I found myself growing a bit weary of the "hot, wealthy, powerful" archetype, which seems to dominate the narrative.
Despite this, the setup for the series is intriguing, and fans of dark MM sci-fi romance will likely find "Distant Heart" engaging. The dynamic between Illya and Rexton is certainly captivating, even if it didn't stand out as particularly unique compared to other pairings in Feener's oeuvre.
Overall, "Distant Heart" is a solid start to the series, though it may not offer anything groundbreaking for readers familiar with Feener's previous works.
The novella explores the familiar tropes of animosity-turned-love, primal play, dub-con, and manipulation, all set against the backdrop of a powerful elite claiming what they desire. While these elements are characteristic of Feener's style, I found myself growing a bit weary of the "hot, wealthy, powerful" archetype, which seems to dominate the narrative.
Despite this, the setup for the series is intriguing, and fans of dark MM sci-fi romance will likely find "Distant Heart" engaging. The dynamic between Illya and Rexton is certainly captivating, even if it didn't stand out as particularly unique compared to other pairings in Feener's oeuvre.
Overall, "Distant Heart" is a solid start to the series, though it may not offer anything groundbreaking for readers familiar with Feener's previous works.
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