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When the Storm Breaks
Secrets are quiet things. Until they’re not.
This town was supposed to be Calla’s fresh start.
A reset. A chance to finally feel like herself again.
And it was—until her best friend was murdered, and it all fell apart.
With no arrests, no leads, and no one asking the right questions, Calla is left with a silence that’s loud in all the wrong places.
So she starts pulling at threads.
And one of them leads straight to Haiyden.
He’s brooding. Watchful. A little too steady for someone who feels so impossible.
Too present to be a stranger. Too unreadable to feel safe.
But when he looks at her, it’s like he already knows how this ends.
Their connection is unexplainable. Messy. Disarming in a way neither of them is ready for.
Somehow, it’s the only thing that holds while everything else breaks.
A lifeline.
A connection she never saw coming.
Because Haiyden’s hiding something that could destroy everything.
And the closer Calla gets to the truth, the more it feels like betrayal wearing grief’s disguise.
When the Storm Breaks is a slow-burn romance about buried secrets, impossible love, and what we choose to forgive. It’s book one in a loosely connected series, but can be read as a standalone.
This town was supposed to be Calla’s fresh start.
A reset. A chance to finally feel like herself again.
And it was—until her best friend was murdered, and it all fell apart.
With no arrests, no leads, and no one asking the right questions, Calla is left with a silence that’s loud in all the wrong places.
So she starts pulling at threads.
And one of them leads straight to Haiyden.
He’s brooding. Watchful. A little too steady for someone who feels so impossible.
Too present to be a stranger. Too unreadable to feel safe.
But when he looks at her, it’s like he already knows how this ends.
Their connection is unexplainable. Messy. Disarming in a way neither of them is ready for.
Somehow, it’s the only thing that holds while everything else breaks.
A lifeline.
A connection she never saw coming.
Because Haiyden’s hiding something that could destroy everything.
And the closer Calla gets to the truth, the more it feels like betrayal wearing grief’s disguise.
When the Storm Breaks is a slow-burn romance about buried secrets, impossible love, and what we choose to forgive. It’s book one in a loosely connected series, but can be read as a standalone.
442 pages, Paperback
Published June 28, 2025
10 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 22, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of When the Storm Breaks in exchange for my honest thoughts, and wow—this book truly delivered.
It’s been a long time since a story made me feel as deeply as this one did. The writing is beautiful, and the pacing—though a slow burn—perfectly mirrors the emotions of the characters, keeping you hooked and eager to turn the next page. The emotional weight is intense at times, so I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in, but that depth is also what makes the book so powerful and unforgettable.
I could say so much more, but to avoid spoilers I’ll just say this: When the Storm Breaks is a story that will stay with me for a long time. I became completely invested in the characters—Calla, Haiyden, and even Chase. I’m already eager for Chase’s story, and I sincerely hope we get more from Calla and Haiyden too.
Emory Hartwell has crafted an incredible debut, and I can confidently say I’ll be reading everything she writes from here on out.
It’s been a long time since a story made me feel as deeply as this one did. The writing is beautiful, and the pacing—though a slow burn—perfectly mirrors the emotions of the characters, keeping you hooked and eager to turn the next page. The emotional weight is intense at times, so I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in, but that depth is also what makes the book so powerful and unforgettable.
I could say so much more, but to avoid spoilers I’ll just say this: When the Storm Breaks is a story that will stay with me for a long time. I became completely invested in the characters—Calla, Haiyden, and even Chase. I’m already eager for Chase’s story, and I sincerely hope we get more from Calla and Haiyden too.
Emory Hartwell has crafted an incredible debut, and I can confidently say I’ll be reading everything she writes from here on out.
July 16, 2025
”‘After all, butterflies are a symbol of transformation. Rebirth. New beginnings.’
This book is an easy 10/10 for me. I’m no stranger to DNF’ing books when they lack plot, character depth, or spice but this one delivered all three. And it delivered them beautifully. I connected with the characters on such a deep level. The author did an incredible job making you feel every single emotion the FMC felt — from heartbreak to desire to healing. The intimacy was written with care, depth, and emotion, and even when the FMC and MMC were apart, their feelings still hit hard. This book blends romance and mystery in the most unexpected way. The twist? You won’t see it coming. But when it hits, everything clicks into place so perfectly. And if you loved Dominic from the Ravenhood series trust me you’re going to fall for this MMC. He’s moody, guarded, emotionally unavailable, and absolutely the kind of man I fall for in books 😩
This book is an easy 10/10 for me. I’m no stranger to DNF’ing books when they lack plot, character depth, or spice but this one delivered all three. And it delivered them beautifully. I connected with the characters on such a deep level. The author did an incredible job making you feel every single emotion the FMC felt — from heartbreak to desire to healing. The intimacy was written with care, depth, and emotion, and even when the FMC and MMC were apart, their feelings still hit hard. This book blends romance and mystery in the most unexpected way. The twist? You won’t see it coming. But when it hits, everything clicks into place so perfectly. And if you loved Dominic from the Ravenhood series trust me you’re going to fall for this MMC. He’s moody, guarded, emotionally unavailable, and absolutely the kind of man I fall for in books 😩
July 1, 2025
I thought for sure this was a stalker romance, but I was pleasantly surprised!! I was a little turned off at the scene of her puking LOL
“What the hell is wrong with me? She’s sick, and I stripped her naked. What kind of person does that?”
… right??
“And beyond that—who throws up in front of someone, then lets them undress them afterward?”
After that brief moment of contemplation the rest of the book was a pleasant surprise! I love the mystery bit.
I did find myself questioning the exact timeline of their relationship, like was this months? Weeks? Years?
Overall a solid 4/5!
Some of my favorite highlights-
“I consider moving, adjusting, making room for her to stretch out—but then I hear it. The quiet, even breaths of her sleeping. I tell myself it doesn’t mean anything. She’s exhausted. Her body’s worn. She’s comfortable. That’s all. But I don’t move. I let her stay. Let myself stay. The movie ends. The credits roll. And I stay perfectly still. I don’t want this moment to end.”
“This—this feels like happy. Like snow days with extra marshmallows and Saturday morning cartoons I pretended to be too old for. Like the smell of cinnamon in December. My mom folding laundry in the living room. My dad tying my boots tighter after I already did them, just to make sure they’d hold.”
“I turn to her again, watching as snowflakes kiss her skin and melt into her warmth. And I want to. I want to tell her. I think I might need you forever, Calla James.”
“So this time, I say it the way I should’ve from the beginning. “I love you.” She draws in a sharp breath, her throat bobbing—but I don’t stop. I can’t. “I shouldn’t have said it the first time when I was drunk. Or after I disappeared. Or during a fight.” My voice thickens, but I keep my eyes on hers. “I meant it every time. But I should’ve said it like this. Sober. Here.” I take a slow step forward, closing the space between us. My voice drops, steady—despite the storm inside me. “You are my sun, Calla. Everything in my life moves around you, bends for you.” My voice cracks, but I don’t stop. “And sometimes I don’t know what to do with that. Because without the sun, the world is nothing but darkness.” I swallow hard. “Loving you means I have more to lose than I ever have in my fucking life.” “
“Love was never going to be the butterfly—light and effortless. It’s the chrysalis. Tight. Painful. Quiet. The part no one talks about. But maybe that’s where the change happens. Where something new begins to grow.”
“What the hell is wrong with me? She’s sick, and I stripped her naked. What kind of person does that?”
… right??
“And beyond that—who throws up in front of someone, then lets them undress them afterward?”
After that brief moment of contemplation the rest of the book was a pleasant surprise! I love the mystery bit.
I did find myself questioning the exact timeline of their relationship, like was this months? Weeks? Years?
Overall a solid 4/5!
Some of my favorite highlights-
“I consider moving, adjusting, making room for her to stretch out—but then I hear it. The quiet, even breaths of her sleeping. I tell myself it doesn’t mean anything. She’s exhausted. Her body’s worn. She’s comfortable. That’s all. But I don’t move. I let her stay. Let myself stay. The movie ends. The credits roll. And I stay perfectly still. I don’t want this moment to end.”
“This—this feels like happy. Like snow days with extra marshmallows and Saturday morning cartoons I pretended to be too old for. Like the smell of cinnamon in December. My mom folding laundry in the living room. My dad tying my boots tighter after I already did them, just to make sure they’d hold.”
“I turn to her again, watching as snowflakes kiss her skin and melt into her warmth. And I want to. I want to tell her. I think I might need you forever, Calla James.”
“So this time, I say it the way I should’ve from the beginning. “I love you.” She draws in a sharp breath, her throat bobbing—but I don’t stop. I can’t. “I shouldn’t have said it the first time when I was drunk. Or after I disappeared. Or during a fight.” My voice thickens, but I keep my eyes on hers. “I meant it every time. But I should’ve said it like this. Sober. Here.” I take a slow step forward, closing the space between us. My voice drops, steady—despite the storm inside me. “You are my sun, Calla. Everything in my life moves around you, bends for you.” My voice cracks, but I don’t stop. “And sometimes I don’t know what to do with that. Because without the sun, the world is nothing but darkness.” I swallow hard. “Loving you means I have more to lose than I ever have in my fucking life.” “
“Love was never going to be the butterfly—light and effortless. It’s the chrysalis. Tight. Painful. Quiet. The part no one talks about. But maybe that’s where the change happens. Where something new begins to grow.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2025
When I finished reading this book, I could not leave it on the page. Hours later, I was still ruminating about it- the characters, the themes, the literary techniques, the reading experience. It has taken me a few days to marinate in my thoughts and over my annotations, before I was ready to write a review. It’s not that I don’t know what to say, it’s that I need to be okay without saying EVERYTHING that I want to. I have not thought so hard about a book afterwards, about what it made me feel, in a long time. I have not had a book linger with me like this, in a melancholic yet bittersweet way, in a VERY long time.
The story opens up with the FMC Calla emotionally struggling to rehabilitate after the mysterious disappearance of her best friend, Jules. Calla is devastated and unsure of how to continue without Jules, especially without the closure of this unsolved case. This subplot and character motivation immediately reminded me of the friendship between Bryce Quinlan and Danika Fendyr in SJM’s House of Earth and Blood. The slow-burn romantic subplot between Calla and the MMC Haiyden Grestyone is also introduced very early. Both of these storylines really drive the plot forward until they messily converge, in a heart-breaking and unavoidable collision. There is hollow aching in the aftermath. There is very fragile, uncertain hope following. The final resolution is not clean, but so realistic that you wouldn’t want it another way.
You will ache in more definitions of the word than you previously knew how. With the slow pace mirroring the sluggish heaviness of sorrow, you have the opportunity to work through these definitions. Underneath the storyline, this book is an exposition of the human experience across the spectrum of sadness. The subtle distinctions between understandable grief and the lingering hold of depression are explored. Mourning itself is an active journey, as is healing, and you will walk alongside these characters’ jaggedly rough paths.
While this book is inarguably heavy, it also offers solace in a hauntingly beautiful message about healing. These human hearts are irrevocably broken, and broken things cannot always be fixed. This story is for those who have been shattered, the ones who cannot be restored, the ones who need an alternative option because recovering to “before” is impossible. These characters’ stories plant seeds of hope in finding relief in the future without having to relieve themselves of the past. This story offers up the possibility to live in a way that moves “beyond” instead of moving forward “without”. It is a reminder that healing does not automatically mean happiness, that sorrow can leave scars, and that pain can require strength to persevere while simultaneously building it. You will walk away with a beautiful message that strength is a result of moving forward(and doesn't mean forgetting). That it can be built by carrying the emotional weights until the endurance of time conditions us. It offers another perspective in measuring this kind of emotional strength by embracing instead of by the ability to remove or eliminate weakness.
This might be Emory Hartwell’s debut novel, but they are exceptionally adept at capturing and transcribing the fragile, nuanced agonies of human existence. Delicate mental health themes of grief, loss, depression, betrayal, and loneliness were navigated gracefully. Subtle, sophisticated literary techniques were used, making this a reading experience far beyond just following storyline plot. Beginning with an in medias res structure helps build the intriguing suspense in both plot development and character depth.The multiple POVs and fragmented narrative illustrates the realistically fractured mindscape when actively dealing with grief and depression.
The actual prose and dialogue itself was not overtly profound. In a simplistic lexicon, the actual experience of these emotional states was so very well conveyed.
“Shaking my head, I pull on a sweater. It’s tight. Itchy. Suffocating. I rip it off and toss it into the growing pile on the floor.”
“The mess, the neglect—it mirrors the wreckage inside me more than I want to admit.”
“Meals have been reduced to dry cereal straight from the box and half-stale protein bars I found buried at the back of the cabinet. Just enough to stave off hunger, but nothing that feels like care.”
Having personally dealt with these emotions, I greatly resonated with these little moments. Also, I greatly appreciated how things were more gently depicted instead of more brashly described. It allowed me to control my reading experience better in terms of sympathizing with the characters instead of empathizing with them. A subtle difference between feeling for them, and being dragged into feeling so intensely WITH them.
I would recommend this book with caution to those whose wounds are still a little fresh and raw. However, Calla and Haiyden’s emotional evolution could potentially impact someone positively as they transition out of grief. I do think this would be an excellent read for those who want to better understand the mentality of someone going through these experiences. And I absolutely think this would make an excellent book club pick for those who like to deep dive into discussions, extrapolate themes, and literary technique analysis. The really meaty philosophical things just can’t be fully appreciated without having all of the details and plot twists known. After I read this, I REALLY wanted to talk about the book as a whole more than I wanted to talk about what happened throughout the story itself.
If and when a book club does read this, please add me to the group discussion- because I will probably still be thinking about it. Until then, I look forward to adding Emory Hartwell’s future publications to my moody and introspective TBR list.
The story opens up with the FMC Calla emotionally struggling to rehabilitate after the mysterious disappearance of her best friend, Jules. Calla is devastated and unsure of how to continue without Jules, especially without the closure of this unsolved case. This subplot and character motivation immediately reminded me of the friendship between Bryce Quinlan and Danika Fendyr in SJM’s House of Earth and Blood. The slow-burn romantic subplot between Calla and the MMC Haiyden Grestyone is also introduced very early. Both of these storylines really drive the plot forward until they messily converge, in a heart-breaking and unavoidable collision. There is hollow aching in the aftermath. There is very fragile, uncertain hope following. The final resolution is not clean, but so realistic that you wouldn’t want it another way.
You will ache in more definitions of the word than you previously knew how. With the slow pace mirroring the sluggish heaviness of sorrow, you have the opportunity to work through these definitions. Underneath the storyline, this book is an exposition of the human experience across the spectrum of sadness. The subtle distinctions between understandable grief and the lingering hold of depression are explored. Mourning itself is an active journey, as is healing, and you will walk alongside these characters’ jaggedly rough paths.
While this book is inarguably heavy, it also offers solace in a hauntingly beautiful message about healing. These human hearts are irrevocably broken, and broken things cannot always be fixed. This story is for those who have been shattered, the ones who cannot be restored, the ones who need an alternative option because recovering to “before” is impossible. These characters’ stories plant seeds of hope in finding relief in the future without having to relieve themselves of the past. This story offers up the possibility to live in a way that moves “beyond” instead of moving forward “without”. It is a reminder that healing does not automatically mean happiness, that sorrow can leave scars, and that pain can require strength to persevere while simultaneously building it. You will walk away with a beautiful message that strength is a result of moving forward(and doesn't mean forgetting). That it can be built by carrying the emotional weights until the endurance of time conditions us. It offers another perspective in measuring this kind of emotional strength by embracing instead of by the ability to remove or eliminate weakness.
This might be Emory Hartwell’s debut novel, but they are exceptionally adept at capturing and transcribing the fragile, nuanced agonies of human existence. Delicate mental health themes of grief, loss, depression, betrayal, and loneliness were navigated gracefully. Subtle, sophisticated literary techniques were used, making this a reading experience far beyond just following storyline plot. Beginning with an in medias res structure helps build the intriguing suspense in both plot development and character depth.The multiple POVs and fragmented narrative illustrates the realistically fractured mindscape when actively dealing with grief and depression.
The actual prose and dialogue itself was not overtly profound. In a simplistic lexicon, the actual experience of these emotional states was so very well conveyed.
“Shaking my head, I pull on a sweater. It’s tight. Itchy. Suffocating. I rip it off and toss it into the growing pile on the floor.”
“The mess, the neglect—it mirrors the wreckage inside me more than I want to admit.”
“Meals have been reduced to dry cereal straight from the box and half-stale protein bars I found buried at the back of the cabinet. Just enough to stave off hunger, but nothing that feels like care.”
Having personally dealt with these emotions, I greatly resonated with these little moments. Also, I greatly appreciated how things were more gently depicted instead of more brashly described. It allowed me to control my reading experience better in terms of sympathizing with the characters instead of empathizing with them. A subtle difference between feeling for them, and being dragged into feeling so intensely WITH them.
I would recommend this book with caution to those whose wounds are still a little fresh and raw. However, Calla and Haiyden’s emotional evolution could potentially impact someone positively as they transition out of grief. I do think this would be an excellent read for those who want to better understand the mentality of someone going through these experiences. And I absolutely think this would make an excellent book club pick for those who like to deep dive into discussions, extrapolate themes, and literary technique analysis. The really meaty philosophical things just can’t be fully appreciated without having all of the details and plot twists known. After I read this, I REALLY wanted to talk about the book as a whole more than I wanted to talk about what happened throughout the story itself.
If and when a book club does read this, please add me to the group discussion- because I will probably still be thinking about it. Until then, I look forward to adding Emory Hartwell’s future publications to my moody and introspective TBR list.
October 8, 2025
This book hurts in the best way! 😭 I received this book as an ARC and I am so glad I had the chance to read it!
This beautifully written story takes you through the raw and emotional process of grief. The main character is reeling after the her best friend’s disappearance, and the author portrays her struggle with depression and healing in such a deeply human, authentic way.
Along her journey, she meets a man who’s also carrying his own pain. Neither is in the right place for love, but sometimes the most unexpected connections lead to the most meaningful healing.
The writing is incredibly descriptive—every scene feels alive. You can almost breathe the air, hear the sounds, and feel the emotions surrounding each moment. While the pacing slows in spots, it suits the reflective tone and emotional depth of the story — but honestly, that just makes the emotions hit harder.
Beautifully written and heartfelt—I’d 100% read another book by this author!
This beautifully written story takes you through the raw and emotional process of grief. The main character is reeling after the her best friend’s disappearance, and the author portrays her struggle with depression and healing in such a deeply human, authentic way.
Along her journey, she meets a man who’s also carrying his own pain. Neither is in the right place for love, but sometimes the most unexpected connections lead to the most meaningful healing.
The writing is incredibly descriptive—every scene feels alive. You can almost breathe the air, hear the sounds, and feel the emotions surrounding each moment. While the pacing slows in spots, it suits the reflective tone and emotional depth of the story — but honestly, that just makes the emotions hit harder.
Beautifully written and heartfelt—I’d 100% read another book by this author!
September 21, 2025
Read as an ARC and all I have to say is wow! This is a truly heartbreaking but beautiful read depicting what grief truly feels like. Grief feels like a hard concept to put in words but this was a masterclass in true, raw, human emotion.
Haiyden has my heart!
Favorite quote: “and as I tie the laces, I wonder if she notices. If she feels it. That id do this, too- a hundred times over. That id spend my whole life on the floor, freezing, kneeling at her feet, if it meant she were warm”.
Haiyden has my heart!
Favorite quote: “and as I tie the laces, I wonder if she notices. If she feels it. That id do this, too- a hundred times over. That id spend my whole life on the floor, freezing, kneeling at her feet, if it meant she were warm”.
September 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely Stunning – An Emotional Masterpiece
When The Storm Breaks by Emory Hartwell is the kind of book that doesn't just tell a story, it pulls you under, heart first. From the jaw-dropping Prologue, I was completely hooked, and I stayed emotionally invested until the very last page... which, by the way, left me begging for MORE.
This is not just a romance, it's an emotional roller coaster that explores grief, healing, and the raw vulnerability of truly loving someone. Emory Hartwell’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful—you don't just read Calla and Haiyden’s story, you feel it. The heartbreak, the longing, the sparks of hope, it’s all so achingly real.
The plot twists? Let’s just say: I gasped. Multiple times.
The relationship development? So authentic, so realistic, and so deeply satisfying.
The portrayal of loss? It wrecked me in the best possible way.
I genuinely fell in love with both main characters. Their pain, their growth, their love; it all felt so human. Emory captured the complexity of grief and the fragile beauty of second chances with such emotional precision that I’m still thinking about it with an ache in my chest.
If you’re looking for a story that will break your heart and put it back together again, this is the book.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend.
Absolutely Stunning – An Emotional Masterpiece
When The Storm Breaks by Emory Hartwell is the kind of book that doesn't just tell a story, it pulls you under, heart first. From the jaw-dropping Prologue, I was completely hooked, and I stayed emotionally invested until the very last page... which, by the way, left me begging for MORE.
This is not just a romance, it's an emotional roller coaster that explores grief, healing, and the raw vulnerability of truly loving someone. Emory Hartwell’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful—you don't just read Calla and Haiyden’s story, you feel it. The heartbreak, the longing, the sparks of hope, it’s all so achingly real.
The plot twists? Let’s just say: I gasped. Multiple times.
The relationship development? So authentic, so realistic, and so deeply satisfying.
The portrayal of loss? It wrecked me in the best possible way.
I genuinely fell in love with both main characters. Their pain, their growth, their love; it all felt so human. Emory captured the complexity of grief and the fragile beauty of second chances with such emotional precision that I’m still thinking about it with an ache in my chest.
If you’re looking for a story that will break your heart and put it back together again, this is the book.
Highly, HIGHLY recommend.
July 31, 2025
In a nutshell: Two grieving people find their way toward healing.
Pros: set in an adorable town, beautiful prose, accurate representation of nonlinear healing, a "fuck it" moment.
Cons: you will cry a lot. I was scared there wasn't a happy ending (there is, don't worry).
Favorite Quotes: "...washing off the last traces of Haiyden, knowing I'll wear him again soon."
"If she knows I still carry her in every piece of myself I had to rebuild."
I was not fully ready for how emotional this book would be. I had to take a lot of breaks because the writing sucks you in and demands that you feel what the characters are feeling.
Calla is trying to live with the aftermath of losing her best friend. The only thing that pulls her out of her grief-induced depression is digging for answers, but she's also a shit-magnet and an overthinker (relatable!).
Haiyden is the grumpiest man alive. I don't think he speaks without growling until like 45% of the way through the book. I loved him immediately.
I wasn't sure how these two were finally going to find their way together, but when they did...I cried. These two grieving people needed each other and they're so beautiful together.
I went into this book completely blind and I recommend you do the same. But when you do, be prepared to feel every emotion.
Pros: set in an adorable town, beautiful prose, accurate representation of nonlinear healing, a "fuck it" moment.
Cons: you will cry a lot. I was scared there wasn't a happy ending (there is, don't worry).
Favorite Quotes: "...washing off the last traces of Haiyden, knowing I'll wear him again soon."
"If she knows I still carry her in every piece of myself I had to rebuild."
I was not fully ready for how emotional this book would be. I had to take a lot of breaks because the writing sucks you in and demands that you feel what the characters are feeling.
Calla is trying to live with the aftermath of losing her best friend. The only thing that pulls her out of her grief-induced depression is digging for answers, but she's also a shit-magnet and an overthinker (relatable!).
Haiyden is the grumpiest man alive. I don't think he speaks without growling until like 45% of the way through the book. I loved him immediately.
I wasn't sure how these two were finally going to find their way together, but when they did...I cried. These two grieving people needed each other and they're so beautiful together.
I went into this book completely blind and I recommend you do the same. But when you do, be prepared to feel every emotion.
October 4, 2025
ARC Reader Review 😊
This book did not disappoint! I was not expecting the loss and heartbreak, the desire and the healing that came from this book. The storyline was great from the twists and turns and a secret revealed towards the end that I did not expect from the first half of the book. I will say, I need more Chase in my life.
Calla & Haiyden, both grieving losses, connected in so many ways. Calla with her inability to let go, needing answers to be able to move forward in life. Haiyden with his dark and broody behavior. The way I cried, the things I felt by the end. I needed a moment to process things before I could even think of starting a new book.
I loved Haiyden and his growling, but Haiyden and his inability to communicate drove me crazy. I get it there was trauma but OMG. I honestly wanted to smack both of them from time to time, but it made when they finally got their mess together even that much better.
I would have never believed this was Emory Hartwell’s debut novel!
This book did not disappoint! I was not expecting the loss and heartbreak, the desire and the healing that came from this book. The storyline was great from the twists and turns and a secret revealed towards the end that I did not expect from the first half of the book. I will say, I need more Chase in my life.
Calla & Haiyden, both grieving losses, connected in so many ways. Calla with her inability to let go, needing answers to be able to move forward in life. Haiyden with his dark and broody behavior. The way I cried, the things I felt by the end. I needed a moment to process things before I could even think of starting a new book.
I loved Haiyden and his growling, but Haiyden and his inability to communicate drove me crazy. I get it there was trauma but OMG. I honestly wanted to smack both of them from time to time, but it made when they finally got their mess together even that much better.
I would have never believed this was Emory Hartwell’s debut novel!
July 5, 2025
Check the triggers. The depression and grief in this book is palpable. You feel as if you are lost in the fog right along with Calla. Ms. Hartwell was quite effusive at describing the atmosphere and vibe of someone who can not get out of their emotional funk. And how Calla (started? fell?) into the relationship with the extremely guarded Haiyden was probably not the right thing for either of them at the time. Even though it ends with a HEA, I can not say I felt happy for the characters at the end. I was surprised to see there will be a story for Chase next. I did not feel there was enough plot points around him to warrant his own story.
This review is based on an ARC and is my honest opinion.
This review is based on an ARC and is my honest opinion.
July 16, 2025
"We agreed it was time—to let go, to begin again. This time, we're not leaving in pieces. We're choosing something whole."
Emory Hartwell's When the Storm Breaks was such an easy yet compelling read. The emotions and experiences of the main characters were portrayed so vividly—it felt surreal at times. Hartwell masterfully draws you into the romance, only to challenge the characters again and again, pulling you deeper into their world and leaving you eager for more.
The sadness and emotional weight of this story feel incredibly real and are expressed with stunning depth. I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading, as this book tackles some heavy and sensitive themes.
Emory Hartwell's When the Storm Breaks was such an easy yet compelling read. The emotions and experiences of the main characters were portrayed so vividly—it felt surreal at times. Hartwell masterfully draws you into the romance, only to challenge the characters again and again, pulling you deeper into their world and leaving you eager for more.
The sadness and emotional weight of this story feel incredibly real and are expressed with stunning depth. I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading, as this book tackles some heavy and sensitive themes.
July 23, 2025
This was such a sad but beautiful story. It deals with depression and grief in a way that felt incredibly raw and real. The emotional tension at the beginning pulled me in immediately — it was intense, vulnerable, and impossible to look away from. Watching two people find comfort in one another and begin to heal together was powerful.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this story truly touched home for me. Having experienced depression after a personal loss, I deeply connected to the mindset, the pain, and the quiet struggle. It was portrayed so authentically and with so much heart.
This book is sweet, honest, and painfully human. Emory did an amazing job, and I’m incredibly grateful I got to read this as an ARC. This one will stick with me for a long time.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this story truly touched home for me. Having experienced depression after a personal loss, I deeply connected to the mindset, the pain, and the quiet struggle. It was portrayed so authentically and with so much heart.
This book is sweet, honest, and painfully human. Emory did an amazing job, and I’m incredibly grateful I got to read this as an ARC. This one will stick with me for a long time.
August 5, 2025
“When the Storm Breaks” hit like the thunder it promised — aching, electric, and impossible to look away from.
This story doesn’t just walk into your chest. It takes up space there. The kind of slow burn that simmers beneath your skin, wrapped in raw emotion, haunting secrets, and characters that feel like real people bleeding on the page.
The prose is lyrical but sharp, the pacing deliberate yet addictive, and the emotional undercurrent? Devastating in the best way. It’s grief and healing. Yearning and restraint. Love and the fear of what it costs.
This is for readers who crave intimacy over intensity, who want to be broken open just to be stitched together again — slowly, painfully, beautifully.
I loved it and it’s on my recommended list.
This story doesn’t just walk into your chest. It takes up space there. The kind of slow burn that simmers beneath your skin, wrapped in raw emotion, haunting secrets, and characters that feel like real people bleeding on the page.
The prose is lyrical but sharp, the pacing deliberate yet addictive, and the emotional undercurrent? Devastating in the best way. It’s grief and healing. Yearning and restraint. Love and the fear of what it costs.
This is for readers who crave intimacy over intensity, who want to be broken open just to be stitched together again — slowly, painfully, beautifully.
I loved it and it’s on my recommended list.
October 3, 2025
When the Storm Breaks is an emotional and beautifully written story that dives deep into themes of grief, healing, and love. The writing is raw and heartfelt, with characters that feel incredibly real and easy to connect with. I especially appreciated how the author handled the heavy emotional themes with honesty and care, making the journey feel authentic rather than forced.
While the book is heavy at times, it’s also full of moments of hope and connection that balance out the darker elements. Emory Hartwell’s writing style kept me engaged from start to finish, and I found myself invested in the characters’ struggles and growth.
Overall, this is a powerful, touching read that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a story that’s both emotional and deeply human.
While the book is heavy at times, it’s also full of moments of hope and connection that balance out the darker elements. Emory Hartwell’s writing style kept me engaged from start to finish, and I found myself invested in the characters’ struggles and growth.
Overall, this is a powerful, touching read that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a story that’s both emotional and deeply human.
September 22, 2025
ARC review- This was such a good read, I literally didn’t put it down until I finished it. It was such a beautiful story of new beginnings and overcoming grief. Calla losing her best friend consumed her life and then meeting Haiyden brought back some normalcy. You could tell that Haiyden was also going through something traumatic and tried to keep Calla at a distance. After a shocking revelation tore them apart, you slowly saw how they each started to heal on their own and then made their way back to each other. I’m going to be thinking about this book for a long time and I can’t wait for Chase’s book!
September 28, 2025
✨ All I can say is WOW! ✨
I absolutely could not put this book down—it had me hooked from start to finish.
The author does such an incredible job weaving this story together. The way they capture the raw emotions—struggles with mental health, the weight of heartbreak, and the beauty of love—feels so real and relatable. You don’t just read about the characters; you feel every moment right alongside them.
I won’t give away any spoilers (because you truly need to experience it for yourself), but if you’ve been on the fence about picking this one up, consider this your sign: READ IT. You won’t regret it!
I absolutely could not put this book down—it had me hooked from start to finish.
The author does such an incredible job weaving this story together. The way they capture the raw emotions—struggles with mental health, the weight of heartbreak, and the beauty of love—feels so real and relatable. You don’t just read about the characters; you feel every moment right alongside them.
I won’t give away any spoilers (because you truly need to experience it for yourself), but if you’ve been on the fence about picking this one up, consider this your sign: READ IT. You won’t regret it!
October 2, 2025
I wish I could give half stars!! 3.5 ⭐️’s
When the Storm Breaks was not at all what I was expecting. The strongest aspects of the story are the character development and the plot, which are clearly well thought out. It took me on an emotional roller coaster at times, pulling me into the highs and lows of the characters’ journey. It’s definitely a super slow burn, and while I kept waiting for the spice to kick in, it never quite reached the level I anticipated. Overall, it’s a solid read for those who enjoy a steady build and plenty of emotional depth, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a faster-paced, spicier romance.
When the Storm Breaks was not at all what I was expecting. The strongest aspects of the story are the character development and the plot, which are clearly well thought out. It took me on an emotional roller coaster at times, pulling me into the highs and lows of the characters’ journey. It’s definitely a super slow burn, and while I kept waiting for the spice to kick in, it never quite reached the level I anticipated. Overall, it’s a solid read for those who enjoy a steady build and plenty of emotional depth, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a faster-paced, spicier romance.
October 9, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for a honest review.
When the Storm Breaks is a heartfelt romance story that touches on grief, depression, and healing. Calla and Haiyden find each other in a tough time and seek comfort in each other, forming a fast relationship. While things seem great when they have each other, grief finds a way to sneak in when Calla uncovers a connection between Haiyden and her friend’s death (Jules). I enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait for the second book. I did feel that Jules story was very background for most of the book and should have been included more.
When the Storm Breaks is a heartfelt romance story that touches on grief, depression, and healing. Calla and Haiyden find each other in a tough time and seek comfort in each other, forming a fast relationship. While things seem great when they have each other, grief finds a way to sneak in when Calla uncovers a connection between Haiyden and her friend’s death (Jules). I enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait for the second book. I did feel that Jules story was very background for most of the book and should have been included more.
August 1, 2025
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
At first, I really thought this book was going to be a murder mystery or something along those lines, but I was way off! Make sure you check trigger warnings. This book was FULL of emotions. I thought it portrayed grief and depression very well. It made me happy, and I even cried a little.
It was definitely a sloooow burn between Calla and Haiyden, but I think it worked well. The spicy scenes were full of spice, but left me wishing there was more of them.
I got this book as an ARC reader, and finished it in one day. Overall, I enjoyed it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
At first, I really thought this book was going to be a murder mystery or something along those lines, but I was way off! Make sure you check trigger warnings. This book was FULL of emotions. I thought it portrayed grief and depression very well. It made me happy, and I even cried a little.
It was definitely a sloooow burn between Calla and Haiyden, but I think it worked well. The spicy scenes were full of spice, but left me wishing there was more of them.
I got this book as an ARC reader, and finished it in one day. Overall, I enjoyed it!
September 22, 2025
I absolutely love this book. The characters, the plot, it was all fantastic. Beautifully written, and so hard to put down. The author made me feel exactly what the characters do. I related more to Calla than I thought I would and being able to put myself in her position made the book even better. Thank you for reminding me that while grief doesn’t always look the same from person to person, it also doesn’t look the same from day to day. I will definitely be adding this to my favorites collection ❤️ I look forward to reading all future books published.
September 29, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive this book as an ARC and this is my honest review!
This was an emotional ride and definitely not for someone that doesn't want to cry.
Everything was there. The romance, the twists, the spice.
you can feel everything the characters felt and from a personal standpoint I related heavily to the way the characters were dealing with their depression. It's a heavy story but beautifully written
Absolutely amazing for a debut novel. I will forever be reading anything Emily Hartwell puts out there.
This was an emotional ride and definitely not for someone that doesn't want to cry.
Everything was there. The romance, the twists, the spice.
you can feel everything the characters felt and from a personal standpoint I related heavily to the way the characters were dealing with their depression. It's a heavy story but beautifully written
Absolutely amazing for a debut novel. I will forever be reading anything Emily Hartwell puts out there.
December 1, 2025
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
At first, I really thought this book was going to be a murder mystery or something along those lines, but I was way off! Make sure you check trigger warnings. This book was FULL of emotions. I thought it portrayed grief and depression very well. It made me happy, and I even cried a little.
It was definitely a sloooow burn between Calla and Haiyden, but I think it worked well. The spicy scenes were full of spice, but left me wishing there was more of them.
I got this book as an ARC reader, and finished it in one day. Overall, I enjoyed it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
At first, I really thought this book was going to be a murder mystery or something along those lines, but I was way off! Make sure you check trigger warnings. This book was FULL of emotions. I thought it portrayed grief and depression very well. It made me happy, and I even cried a little.
It was definitely a sloooow burn between Calla and Haiyden, but I think it worked well. The spicy scenes were full of spice, but left me wishing there was more of them.
I got this book as an ARC reader, and finished it in one day. Overall, I enjoyed it!
August 9, 2025
If you want to read a book that will make you rethink your emotional attachment issues and have you giggling over fictional characters at the same time, then this book is for you! I read this book a day, because I was that invested into the story! The mysterious aura that this book imprints on you well you read, got me in the perfect mood for fall and winter! The little details are everything to me, and Emory Hartwell nailed it!!
August 22, 2025
I really liked this book! I really loved both Haiyden and Calla's characters, and I also loved Chase! There is a lot of grief and mental health rep in here, and I think it was done really well. This does have a third-act breakup, which I'm normally not the biggest fan of, but in this story, I feel like it's very fitting and necessary for the characters! And overall, I would definitely recommend this book ❤️
September 21, 2025
Emory Hartwell doesn't just tell this story, she makes you feel it through all the emotions. The well balanced love, heartbreak, suspense, spice and the wanting more, as I was drawn in from the very beginning and just couldn't stop.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters with the beautifully written story and a plot that never disappointed. I'm not one for predictable stories, and Emory kept me guessing through it all until the end. Left with an ache in my chest, I want more!
I absolutely fell in love with the characters with the beautifully written story and a plot that never disappointed. I'm not one for predictable stories, and Emory kept me guessing through it all until the end. Left with an ache in my chest, I want more!
October 1, 2025
When I closed the last page of When The Storm Breaks by Emory Hartwell, I was absolutely ruined… in all the ways you want a book to ruin you. This is the kind of story that doesn’t just tug at your heart strings, it tears them apart and weaves them back together in the most beautiful and gutwrenching way. This a suspenseful (on the darker side) spicy romance with a murder mystery plot. It is layered with grief, longing, toxic family ties and the haunting loneliness brought about by loss of a loved one. Both main characters are broken in their own ways, each wrestling with inner demons that feel achingly real. And yet, amidst the pain, there are threads of hope woven in and reminders that even in the darkest moments we can find a way to move forward. I felt everything. The grief. The longing. The estrangement from family. The frantic desperation in the characters worst moments. The suspenseful twist and turns kept me on edge, while the intimacy between the characters, both emotional and physical, added a raw vulnerability to their journey. This one is absolutely unforgettable and will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2025
I was able to read an ARC for this book. The two prospectives from both characters as they work through their past and the own sadness connects you with each character. In the beginning, the sadness that radiates from Calla leaves you wondering if love and some trust will bring her to move forward. How far can your heart be shattered and you can still come back from the darkness? Can love be all you need? Or is the past too much? Worth the read.
September 3, 2025
This story follows Calla and Haiyden, 2 people trying to deal with grief; one turning to anger and the other depression. The writing gives a painfully accurate representation of what it’s like to live with depression and Calla shows how small that can make you feel.
The author definitely did not make the journey of these two ending up together an easy one. Sometimes their relationship was easy, sometimes hard, but that’s life isn’t it?
I did not want this book to end, I wanted more of their story and relationship!
The author definitely did not make the journey of these two ending up together an easy one. Sometimes their relationship was easy, sometimes hard, but that’s life isn’t it?
I did not want this book to end, I wanted more of their story and relationship!
September 10, 2025
Was sent this as an arc and really enjoyed it, however I don’t feel the FMC will be for everyone, I found myself wanting to reach into the page and give her a shake and tell her to pull it together a good few times same with the MMC to be fair but I suppose that shows good writing that you’d be feeling that invested in the characters that feel the want to intervene!
September 22, 2025
I received this book as an Arc and I can say I wasn’t disappointed! I have lived with depression and grief for many years,and she hit the nail on the head with Calla’s depiction. I adored Haiyden broody and protective! When I read the prologue,however,I thought I was going to be reading a completely different type of book! Overall good time would def recommend!!
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