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The Frost that Burns
Misery might be able to dance with love after all.
Finding a soulmate at the Starlit Festival is a dream for most souls. But for Keres, a lethal ruby vampire chained to the demands of a ruthless queen, a week of starry skies and fated love is simply another broken dream. Not all clipped wings can heal in the darkness of the Underworld.
But when her best friend arranges a week off from serving their cruel queen, Keres is content to enjoy feasting on decadent sweets and blood wine while dancing under the stars.
Until she finds her demons.
As the general of Wrath’s army, Ares has spent centuries hiding behind charming smiles and brutality. But when a mission to poison the queen’s prized weapon is thwarted, Ares finds he may be willing to remove his careful mask if it means having more of her.
Tristan, the grumpy royal adviser, knows love isn’t destined for damaged souls like him. Preferring to keep his scowling face buried in his books, Tristan is hesitant to let Ares drag him to the Starlit Festival. Rattled by a shared history of trauma and tragedy, the demons had given up on finding their soulmates.
Until they find their vampire.
As Keres and her demons embrace vulnerability and surrender to their carnal desires under the glittering stars of the festival, Keres begins to hope for an impossible future. With freedom and healing on the line, Keres, Ares, and Tristan must find the courage to love one another, and more importantly, themselves.
The Frost That Burns is an adult dark fantasy romance, where sinful desires and love can heal the darkest of trauma.
Finding a soulmate at the Starlit Festival is a dream for most souls. But for Keres, a lethal ruby vampire chained to the demands of a ruthless queen, a week of starry skies and fated love is simply another broken dream. Not all clipped wings can heal in the darkness of the Underworld.
But when her best friend arranges a week off from serving their cruel queen, Keres is content to enjoy feasting on decadent sweets and blood wine while dancing under the stars.
Until she finds her demons.
As the general of Wrath’s army, Ares has spent centuries hiding behind charming smiles and brutality. But when a mission to poison the queen’s prized weapon is thwarted, Ares finds he may be willing to remove his careful mask if it means having more of her.
Tristan, the grumpy royal adviser, knows love isn’t destined for damaged souls like him. Preferring to keep his scowling face buried in his books, Tristan is hesitant to let Ares drag him to the Starlit Festival. Rattled by a shared history of trauma and tragedy, the demons had given up on finding their soulmates.
Until they find their vampire.
As Keres and her demons embrace vulnerability and surrender to their carnal desires under the glittering stars of the festival, Keres begins to hope for an impossible future. With freedom and healing on the line, Keres, Ares, and Tristan must find the courage to love one another, and more importantly, themselves.
The Frost That Burns is an adult dark fantasy romance, where sinful desires and love can heal the darkest of trauma.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
February 10, 2026
Arc review
I dove into this book expecting the best, and I was given exactly that. I couldn’t put it down, had to force myself to stop reading so I could sleep. The banter kicks off almost immediately and it’s perfect. The disability representation in this book is amazing and it makes me so happy to see it. Also, fated mates???? I’m here for it.
Keres obsession with chocolate reminds me so much of myself and I love when I can see myself in characters.
The story line here is beautiful. I can’t wait to have a trophy for my bookshelf
I dove into this book expecting the best, and I was given exactly that. I couldn’t put it down, had to force myself to stop reading so I could sleep. The banter kicks off almost immediately and it’s perfect. The disability representation in this book is amazing and it makes me so happy to see it. Also, fated mates???? I’m here for it.
Keres obsession with chocolate reminds me so much of myself and I love when I can see myself in characters.
The story line here is beautiful. I can’t wait to have a trophy for my bookshelf
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spice: 2
Tropes:
MMF Why Choose
hate to lovers
friends to lovers
fated mates
disability rep
Vampire x demons
multi pov
I never would have imagined reading a book that combines the Underworld and Valentines Day but Carliann did and it was a lot of fun! While human Valentines Day is 1 day to buy flowers, chocolates, and go on a date usually, The Underworld celebrates for a whole week. I kinda like theirs better!
The Starlit Festival is where all creatures come for a week to find their soulmate. Why did this make me go awww reading about soulmates in The Underworld? lol It did and I wont take it back. The shop markets and have festivities AND if you do find your soulmate, or two, they have nightly soulmate workshops to get to know your partner(s) better. I love this. I wish Valentine's on Earth was the Starlit Festival lol.
I enjoyed reading Ares, Keres, and Tristan's story so much that I need more. I love how Keres stood her ground and the book wasn't an immediate instaconnection. Also, I loved the side story of Keres bff Celia! Im left with questions... like what about the devil Queen?, BUT good news is, another book is coming!
Also, fun easter egg to Carliann other book The Light Within! Will we get a crossover? I hope so!
Tropes:
MMF Why Choose
hate to lovers
friends to lovers
fated mates
disability rep
Vampire x demons
multi pov
I never would have imagined reading a book that combines the Underworld and Valentines Day but Carliann did and it was a lot of fun! While human Valentines Day is 1 day to buy flowers, chocolates, and go on a date usually, The Underworld celebrates for a whole week. I kinda like theirs better!
The Starlit Festival is where all creatures come for a week to find their soulmate. Why did this make me go awww reading about soulmates in The Underworld? lol It did and I wont take it back. The shop markets and have festivities AND if you do find your soulmate, or two, they have nightly soulmate workshops to get to know your partner(s) better. I love this. I wish Valentine's on Earth was the Starlit Festival lol.
I enjoyed reading Ares, Keres, and Tristan's story so much that I need more. I love how Keres stood her ground and the book wasn't an immediate instaconnection. Also, I loved the side story of Keres bff Celia! Im left with questions... like what about the devil Queen?, BUT good news is, another book is coming!
Also, fun easter egg to Carliann other book The Light Within! Will we get a crossover? I hope so!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
rcvd an ARC from the author for giving my two cents.
we meet ruby vampire and queen of the underworlds top assassin Keres who iw tired of doing all the bad things for the Queen. in her service since she was young Keres hopes to find her soul mate at the festival to get out of the contract. Ares is thr general of Wraths army who has been sent to poison the ruby vampire but there is smtg about her that stops him. he wants to get to know her. Tristan is Ares bff and tends to keep to himself and his books. Ares convinces Tristen to go to the festival with hope of finding their soul mate. what Ares and Tristan didnt plan on was getting the same mate. Keres is shocked...not one but two soulmates...what are the odds. they must completed the bonding and marking ceremonies but the Queen has her ways of making Keres feel insignificant. the demons will stop at nothing to keep Keres safe. good book. cant wait for the next in the series.
we meet ruby vampire and queen of the underworlds top assassin Keres who iw tired of doing all the bad things for the Queen. in her service since she was young Keres hopes to find her soul mate at the festival to get out of the contract. Ares is thr general of Wraths army who has been sent to poison the ruby vampire but there is smtg about her that stops him. he wants to get to know her. Tristan is Ares bff and tends to keep to himself and his books. Ares convinces Tristen to go to the festival with hope of finding their soul mate. what Ares and Tristan didnt plan on was getting the same mate. Keres is shocked...not one but two soulmates...what are the odds. they must completed the bonding and marking ceremonies but the Queen has her ways of making Keres feel insignificant. the demons will stop at nothing to keep Keres safe. good book. cant wait for the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this novella. The story was strong, and it was a pleasure to read. The why choose trope is not one I read a lot of, as I don't normally enjoy it. Carliann did a fantastic job with it, and I absolutely loved it. She has done so well! The cover is simple but eye-catching. I liked it and thought it was a great design job. The writing is stunning and flows beautifully. The first person, multiple POV from Keres z Ares and Tristan worked extremely well. Carliann is a wonderful rep for disability and mental health in her writing, and this story was no exception. Disability and mental health were written with the greatest care and sensitivity. The book is set in the Underworld, and I loved the world-building. I enjoyed the little Majikaero Easter egg a lot! The characters were wonderful. They were so rich and deep. I love how our trio interacted with each other. My favourite character was Tristan. He just spoke to me in volumes. I recommend this novella and look forward to the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novella was absolutely delightful. The intriguing characters and the storyline. Keres and Celia are bound and chained to the Queen of the Underworld. Yet, there is the Starlit Festival that is a week long and those who attend hope to find their soulmate. Keres felt attending was a great vacation from all the slaughter and the chocolate delicious sweets she loves will be in abundance. Before I knew it this storyline twisted into a crude humor punchline and got even better as it went on.
Tristan and his disability was whimsical and so vulnerable. Seeing his POV along with Keres and Ares really spoke on how much of what we tell ourselves is not gow others see us. This is a dark fantasy with delicious spice. Please read the content/trigger warnings as some sybjects mentioned can be be considered sensitive to some readers. ✨️📚✨️
Tristan and his disability was whimsical and so vulnerable. Seeing his POV along with Keres and Ares really spoke on how much of what we tell ourselves is not gow others see us. This is a dark fantasy with delicious spice. Please read the content/trigger warnings as some sybjects mentioned can be be considered sensitive to some readers. ✨️📚✨️
February 12, 2026
In a place where darkness usually prevails they found love in unlikely places. This is a story of how some of the most brutal people find love. Now you may be thinking do they even deserve love if they are brutal, the brutality exhibited by these characters is not of their own free will and each of them still has some light in them… Except the queen💀. The author did an amazing job of showing how the scars of the soulmates mirror each others and how well they all need each other to be whole. The love they have for one another heals something inside them and the author does an amazing job of showing us how they breakdown their walls so that they can fully accept love they never saw coming.
Thank you so much to Carliann for the copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own💜💜
February 25, 2026
Sweet and spicy MMF story. I enjoy when you come across a male sunshine. Keres, a vampire, is dragged to the Starlit Festival, by her friend, Celia, a demon, in hopes of finding their soul mates, one that she didn't believe she deserved as a Messenger of Death for the ruthless Queen of the Underworld.
Ares, proves to Keres and Tristan, that love is for everyone. Loved the friendships between the women, the way Celia didn't allow Keres to give up, and the relationship between the men. The spice was spicing without overtaking the story. The world building was not overwhelming. It was a well put together story.
Ares, proves to Keres and Tristan, that love is for everyone. Loved the friendships between the women, the way Celia didn't allow Keres to give up, and the relationship between the men. The spice was spicing without overtaking the story. The world building was not overwhelming. It was a well put together story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fun, spicy novella about a deadly vampire giving into her friends pleas to attend the mating festival. Here is where she actually meets her soulmates - Yes, two, so you can tell where the story leads (wink wink). Let me tell ya, the spice was "woah" spicy.
I loved the main characters. Ares was my favourite - a warrior brute with a heart of gold. He reminded me of Cassian from ACOTAR.
I also loved how each character had their own dark past but how very different they each were.
A great quick read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
I loved the main characters. Ares was my favourite - a warrior brute with a heart of gold. He reminded me of Cassian from ACOTAR.
I also loved how each character had their own dark past but how very different they each were.
A great quick read.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
February 19, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book. This was a fun read. I’m so used to a slow burn which this was not. It was a nice change. I enjoyed the characters. We have Demons, Vampires and more. We have some good spicy scenes. You get to know about Keres, Ares and Tristan and I am looking forward to following their story.
February 13, 2026
Wow! I went into this expecting a spicy little novella and got a LOT more than that. The characters have depth and trauma and I feel like this was just a tantalizing appetizer to leave us hungry for more of the story.. and yes, the spice was spicing. I will definitely be continuing the series!!
February 24, 2026
Lectura arc, leí este libro sin saber de qué trataba y me llevé una grata sorpresa.
La historia es muy entretenida , la interacción y la relación de los personajes me gustó.
Se va la lectura súper rápido .
———————————-
ARC read, I read this book without knowing what it was about and I was pleasantly surprised.
The story is very entertaining, I liked the interaction and relationship between the characters.
The reading goes by super fast .
La historia es muy entretenida , la interacción y la relación de los personajes me gustó.
Se va la lectura súper rápido .
———————————-
ARC read, I read this book without knowing what it was about and I was pleasantly surprised.
The story is very entertaining, I liked the interaction and relationship between the characters.
The reading goes by super fast .
January 20, 2026
I thought the author did a nice job writing the characters and the plot in this one. The banter between the characters was on point. I enjoyed watching the FMC grow and break free from the queen. It was nice to see a book handle disability representation so tastefully. While this book didn't quite click for me, I can see fans of darker romantasy and vampire/demon lore really enjoying it. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys vampires, demons, dark romantasy, why choose and fated mates.
April 28, 2026
I received an eARC from the author.
As a first time Carliann Jean reader, I was so impressed! This is a novella around 200 pages that PACKS. IT. IN. The depth of the characters, the relationships and relationship growth, the fated mates with some twists, the spice - it had it all. Absolutely here for the disability representation, especially some chapters from that character’s POV. It was a quick read yet was also so descriptive and immersive. I loved the characters and hope there’s a separate novella about Kere’s best friend and her love interest 😏
If you like dark romantasy with vampires and demons, you won’t be disappointed!
As a first time Carliann Jean reader, I was so impressed! This is a novella around 200 pages that PACKS. IT. IN. The depth of the characters, the relationships and relationship growth, the fated mates with some twists, the spice - it had it all. Absolutely here for the disability representation, especially some chapters from that character’s POV. It was a quick read yet was also so descriptive and immersive. I loved the characters and hope there’s a separate novella about Kere’s best friend and her love interest 😏
If you like dark romantasy with vampires and demons, you won’t be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
First of all, how do I get invited to the Starlit Festival? Because I NEED to make eye contact with all the creatures of the Underworld to find my one or two…I’m not picky 🤣 Am I jealous of Keres? Sure am. I mean, do I want to lick chocolate off Ares’s fingers? Well, if you know me at all, you know that answer 🤣 Do I want to help Tristan heal his wounds and be wrapped up in his ice magic? No brainer. Do I want the most powerful war general to command me and Tristan at the same time? *Sighs wistfully*
🖤Soulmate Bonds
✨️MFM/MMF & Yes, ⚔️😉
🗡️Stabby Assassin FMC
⚔️War General Shadow Daddy Demon MMC
🐦⬛Icy Demon Raven Shifter MMC
��So Much Banter
✨️Magical Realms & Powers
🗡️Trauma & Healing
⚔️Hurt/Comfort
🐦⬛Disability & Mental Health Rep
🖤Claiming/Marking
✨️D/S Dynamics & Fun Use of Shadows & a Cane During Spicy Times
Finding a soulmate at the Starlit Festival is the dream for most souls, but for Keres? It would be a nightmare. She’s the prized, lethal ruby vampire chained to the demands of a ruthless queen who will never let her go.
But, when her bestie gets them a week off of their servitude, the decadent sweets and blood wine are calling her name… Until she finds her demons.
Ares is the general of Wrath’s army and the most fearsome warrior of the Underworld. He’s tasked with poisoning the queen’s most prized weapon, but his plans are thwarted and he’s happy about that when it means he can have more of Keres.
Tristan is the grumpy royal advisor with a damaged soul. He prefers his books over people and doesn’t want to go to the Starlit Festival with his best friend, Ares, because he’s given up on love… Until they find their vampire…
Will these three be able to navigate their new fate or are there too many obstacles in their way?
Okay where do I even begin? I had the wonderful opportunity to Beta & ARC read The Frost That Burns and I LOVED every single second of this! I read this in just a few hours and had NO NOTES! Carliann Jean KILLED IT with this one! The balance between plot and spice was pure perfection for this novella, the banter had me giggling left and right, and the men had me swooning HARD…like “help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” 🤣 (I might’ve just aged myself if you don’t know those commercials). ANYWAY! Some specifics?
I adored the soulsister bond between Celia and Keres, and was rooting for them to find their soulmates so they could get out of their contracts with the queen (who btw, the queen can definitely gfh). I LOVED the dynamic between Keres and her mates – their personalities complemented one another perfectly. Keres, our stabby assassin (not by choice) FMC, is extremely guarded due to past trauma and working for the queen, so has never wanted to open up her heart…not until Ares and Tristan come into her life. Ares, our resident War General Shadow Daddy Demon whose allegiance does not align with the queen, was a true cinnamon roll. He’s feared by all, but soft for his soulmates and brought comic relief (he’s a big oaf but we love him profusely!). And Tristan?! We are protecting him AT ALL COSTS. Our icy demon raven shifter has been hurt in his past, and the scars he wears are not all visible. The way these three were able to be vulnerable with one other was so heartwarming and I was here for it. You know what else I was here for?! Ares and Tristan 👀 Talk about the best surprise! The friends to lovers dynamic had me SCREAMING from the rooftops! And the group scenes? Whew! Yes. Just yes.
PLUS! There’s a connection with the world Carliann’s already established in The Soul Bound Realms series and I was squealing with glee! Do I have hopes for these characters to cross over into a different realm or my loves from Majikaero to come over? You bet your sweet ass I am!
10/10! Definitely recommend!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
First of all, how do I get invited to the Starlit Festival? Because I NEED to make eye contact with all the creatures of the Underworld to find my one or two…I’m not picky 🤣 Am I jealous of Keres? Sure am. I mean, do I want to lick chocolate off Ares’s fingers? Well, if you know me at all, you know that answer 🤣 Do I want to help Tristan heal his wounds and be wrapped up in his ice magic? No brainer. Do I want the most powerful war general to command me and Tristan at the same time? *Sighs wistfully*
🖤Soulmate Bonds
✨️MFM/MMF & Yes, ⚔️😉
🗡️Stabby Assassin FMC
⚔️War General Shadow Daddy Demon MMC
🐦⬛Icy Demon Raven Shifter MMC
��So Much Banter
✨️Magical Realms & Powers
🗡️Trauma & Healing
⚔️Hurt/Comfort
🐦⬛Disability & Mental Health Rep
🖤Claiming/Marking
✨️D/S Dynamics & Fun Use of Shadows & a Cane During Spicy Times
Finding a soulmate at the Starlit Festival is the dream for most souls, but for Keres? It would be a nightmare. She’s the prized, lethal ruby vampire chained to the demands of a ruthless queen who will never let her go.
But, when her bestie gets them a week off of their servitude, the decadent sweets and blood wine are calling her name… Until she finds her demons.
Ares is the general of Wrath’s army and the most fearsome warrior of the Underworld. He’s tasked with poisoning the queen’s most prized weapon, but his plans are thwarted and he’s happy about that when it means he can have more of Keres.
Tristan is the grumpy royal advisor with a damaged soul. He prefers his books over people and doesn’t want to go to the Starlit Festival with his best friend, Ares, because he’s given up on love… Until they find their vampire…
Will these three be able to navigate their new fate or are there too many obstacles in their way?
Okay where do I even begin? I had the wonderful opportunity to Beta & ARC read The Frost That Burns and I LOVED every single second of this! I read this in just a few hours and had NO NOTES! Carliann Jean KILLED IT with this one! The balance between plot and spice was pure perfection for this novella, the banter had me giggling left and right, and the men had me swooning HARD…like “help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” 🤣 (I might’ve just aged myself if you don’t know those commercials). ANYWAY! Some specifics?
I adored the soulsister bond between Celia and Keres, and was rooting for them to find their soulmates so they could get out of their contracts with the queen (who btw, the queen can definitely gfh). I LOVED the dynamic between Keres and her mates – their personalities complemented one another perfectly. Keres, our stabby assassin (not by choice) FMC, is extremely guarded due to past trauma and working for the queen, so has never wanted to open up her heart…not until Ares and Tristan come into her life. Ares, our resident War General Shadow Daddy Demon whose allegiance does not align with the queen, was a true cinnamon roll. He’s feared by all, but soft for his soulmates and brought comic relief (he’s a big oaf but we love him profusely!). And Tristan?! We are protecting him AT ALL COSTS. Our icy demon raven shifter has been hurt in his past, and the scars he wears are not all visible. The way these three were able to be vulnerable with one other was so heartwarming and I was here for it. You know what else I was here for?! Ares and Tristan 👀 Talk about the best surprise! The friends to lovers dynamic had me SCREAMING from the rooftops! And the group scenes? Whew! Yes. Just yes.
PLUS! There’s a connection with the world Carliann’s already established in The Soul Bound Realms series and I was squealing with glee! Do I have hopes for these characters to cross over into a different realm or my loves from Majikaero to come over? You bet your sweet ass I am!
10/10! Definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a novella that introduces us to Keres, Ares, and Tristan as the main characters and love interests. Every year, there is a festival that the inhabitants of Nydaren attend, hoping to find their soulmate. For Keres and her best friend Celia, this could mean the end of their servitude to the Queen, a cruel and abusive ruler who forces people into her service via blood contracts. Reluctantly, Keres agrees to attend the festival after Celia manages to get them both a week off of their service from the Queen. Keres is shocked when she meet not one, but two soulmates at the festival. She must grapple with her own sense of self-worth while battling through past trauma to accept the love being offered by her two demons. Ares, the general of Wrath's army, and Tristan, Wrath's royal advisor, must fight to prove to Keres that they are worthy of her trust and love while battling their own insecurities.
Interest points:
Disability rep
Trauma rep
MMF/Why Choose
Queer rep
Instalove
Fated Mates/Bonded Pairs
BDSM
Thoughts:
This was a good, fast read between heavier and longer books. It's obviously a novella so it moves quickly (the story takes place within a week). It's spicy with some BDSM elements. It just felt a little off for me. The book is advertised as friends to lovers/hate to love you but this dynamic felt pretty flat in the story (this is between Ares and Keres). He was sent to poison her but was caught by her and then found out she was his soulmate. She is supposed to be weary and untrusting of him because of this but really the interactions of her anger and lashing out felt forced and almost random. I felt that Tristan and Keres had a more organic connection of friends to lovers even if it was fast and felt more believable as a couple. I did like the connection and friendship between Tristan and Ares though the power balance was a little confusing. I feel that I would have liked this book more if the writing didn't feel so stilted and if the dialogue was maybe a little more thoughtful. "My crimson nails that match my wavy hair, pick off a piece of the dessert." "Oh, she desires to play some more?" I think I just personally didn't vibe with the style of writing. The big villain confrontation felt so childish and petulant that I was having a hard time buying into the emotions that author was telling me were being felt by the characters. I felt that some of the descriptions of the characters also felt a little clunky in the middle of the intimate scenes - like it was sometimes too detailed on certain things and it broke the flow of the scene with so many descriptors. The dynamics and backgrounds hinted at will probably be explored more deeply and fleshed out more as the series continues. In the end, I think it was a fine short read but wasn't a hit it out of the park, over the moon amazing gotta read it again moment for me.
Interest points:
Disability rep
Trauma rep
MMF/Why Choose
Queer rep
Instalove
Fated Mates/Bonded Pairs
BDSM
Thoughts:
This was a good, fast read between heavier and longer books. It's obviously a novella so it moves quickly (the story takes place within a week). It's spicy with some BDSM elements. It just felt a little off for me. The book is advertised as friends to lovers/hate to love you but this dynamic felt pretty flat in the story (this is between Ares and Keres). He was sent to poison her but was caught by her and then found out she was his soulmate. She is supposed to be weary and untrusting of him because of this but really the interactions of her anger and lashing out felt forced and almost random. I felt that Tristan and Keres had a more organic connection of friends to lovers even if it was fast and felt more believable as a couple. I did like the connection and friendship between Tristan and Ares though the power balance was a little confusing. I feel that I would have liked this book more if the writing didn't feel so stilted and if the dialogue was maybe a little more thoughtful. "My crimson nails that match my wavy hair, pick off a piece of the dessert." "Oh, she desires to play some more?" I think I just personally didn't vibe with the style of writing. The big villain confrontation felt so childish and petulant that I was having a hard time buying into the emotions that author was telling me were being felt by the characters. I felt that some of the descriptions of the characters also felt a little clunky in the middle of the intimate scenes - like it was sometimes too detailed on certain things and it broke the flow of the scene with so many descriptors. The dynamics and backgrounds hinted at will probably be explored more deeply and fleshed out more as the series continues. In the end, I think it was a fine short read but wasn't a hit it out of the park, over the moon amazing gotta read it again moment for me.
February 4, 2026
ARC Review
“My hand strokes the metal collar around my neck that digs into my pale skin. It’s silver with garnet and ruby gemstones around it, giving the illusion that it’s a beautiful piece of jewelry when it’s really a suffocating leash.”
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Do I Recommend: Absolutely! Especially as a first time ARC reader and reviewer, I am so glad this one was my first. ❤️
Synopsis:
Keres, a rare, ruby vampire contracted in service to the ruthless Queen of the Underworld, takes a week off her duties with her best friend Celia for the Starlit Festival. Little does she know, she’ll encounter not 1, but 2 soulmates after lifetimes of discouraging work and crushed dreams of ever finding freedom away from the palace. Guarded and emotionally scarred, Keres is reluctant to open her heart to Tristan, the traumatized and prickly royal adviser, and Ares, the bewitching and dreamy army general. However daunting it may be to hope for such love, the stars can be compelling nevertheless.
Thoughts of the book:
This was such a fun read! I really identified with the disability representation within Tristan and how Keres and Ares didn’t treat him like he was weak or ‘wrong’ just because of it. They worked around him instead of making a big deal of it and I really appreciate the writing approach to that and completely understand his POV in feeling like he is less or inadequate, all normal anxieties for someone in his position. Seriously, a huge THANK YOU to Carliann!!
The banter between Keres, Tristan, and Ares was fantastic and it was nice to see them click so easily without being ‘insta-love’. The protectiveness they have for one another? 😩👌
Keres is such a captivating character to read along with. I really connected with her hesitations to jump right into anything and the shield she carries emotionally. She’s a powerful FMC and is VERY careful about who she lets into her orbit. Stabby and grouchy women rise UP!!!
If you love chocolate and food, with 2 sides of doting specimans, this is definitely the book for you. Certainly a quick read for those of us who eat supernatural fantasy right up, and I can’t wait for more!! Give this book a chance, I would absolutely read it again.
Favorite Quotes:
“Grumpy, grumpier, and grumpiest sit at this table while Celia scribbles down some words on her parchment and is oblivious to the rest of us.”
“I won’t pretend to understand what you’ve gone through, but you need to know that no one views you any differently.”
“I’ll look rather pretty in the library. Maybe it’s for my funeral. Either of those options would be ideal.”
“My hand strokes the metal collar around my neck that digs into my pale skin. It’s silver with garnet and ruby gemstones around it, giving the illusion that it’s a beautiful piece of jewelry when it’s really a suffocating leash.”
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Do I Recommend: Absolutely! Especially as a first time ARC reader and reviewer, I am so glad this one was my first. ❤️
Synopsis:
Keres, a rare, ruby vampire contracted in service to the ruthless Queen of the Underworld, takes a week off her duties with her best friend Celia for the Starlit Festival. Little does she know, she’ll encounter not 1, but 2 soulmates after lifetimes of discouraging work and crushed dreams of ever finding freedom away from the palace. Guarded and emotionally scarred, Keres is reluctant to open her heart to Tristan, the traumatized and prickly royal adviser, and Ares, the bewitching and dreamy army general. However daunting it may be to hope for such love, the stars can be compelling nevertheless.
Thoughts of the book:
This was such a fun read! I really identified with the disability representation within Tristan and how Keres and Ares didn’t treat him like he was weak or ‘wrong’ just because of it. They worked around him instead of making a big deal of it and I really appreciate the writing approach to that and completely understand his POV in feeling like he is less or inadequate, all normal anxieties for someone in his position. Seriously, a huge THANK YOU to Carliann!!
The banter between Keres, Tristan, and Ares was fantastic and it was nice to see them click so easily without being ‘insta-love’. The protectiveness they have for one another? 😩👌
Keres is such a captivating character to read along with. I really connected with her hesitations to jump right into anything and the shield she carries emotionally. She’s a powerful FMC and is VERY careful about who she lets into her orbit. Stabby and grouchy women rise UP!!!
If you love chocolate and food, with 2 sides of doting specimans, this is definitely the book for you. Certainly a quick read for those of us who eat supernatural fantasy right up, and I can’t wait for more!! Give this book a chance, I would absolutely read it again.
Favorite Quotes:
“Grumpy, grumpier, and grumpiest sit at this table while Celia scribbles down some words on her parchment and is oblivious to the rest of us.”
“I won’t pretend to understand what you’ve gone through, but you need to know that no one views you any differently.”
“I’ll look rather pretty in the library. Maybe it’s for my funeral. Either of those options would be ideal.”
February 10, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Not all clipped wings can heal in the darkness... but sometimes they find the light in others."
First off, a huge thank you to Carliann Jean for this ARC! I went into The Frost that Burns expecting a spicy dark fantasy, but I didn't expect to have my heart completely ripped out and put back together again.
The Vibe:
Imagine a Starlit Festival where the wine is bloody, the dancing is lethal, and the romance is… uhhh complicated. This book gives us Keres, a ruby vampire who is so used to being a weapon for a cruel queen that she doesn’t know how to be a person. Then enter Ares (the charming, deadly General) and Tristan (the grumpy Royal Adviser who would rather be reading books— hella relatable).
Lemme talk about the characters !
Keres: She is heartbreakingly fierce. Watching her go from a weapon to a woman allowing herself to want things? Beautiful.
Ares: The man hides behind a mask of charm, but the way he looks at Keres? The tension was palpable.
Tristan: Oh, my grumpy king. I am a sucker for the "I hate everyone but you" trope, and his resistance to the festival (and feelings in general) made his eventual unraveling so much more satisfying.
We love a messy, healing, "why choose" dynamic. The chemistry between Keres, Ares, and Tristan felt earned. It wasn’t just about the spice (though, phew, the spice is definitely there and it is good), it was about three broken souls realizing they didn't have to be broken alone. The connection between Ares and Tristan specifically added such a good layer of history and angst to the trio.
You can tell the author has a background in mental health because the trauma representation was handled with so much care. It didn't shy away from the darkness of their pasts, but the focus was always on healing and autonomy.
Final verdict ?
If you love dark fantasy with broken characters finding their found family (and soulmates), distinct personalities, and a romance that balances "sinful desires" with genuine emotional healing, pick this up. It’s perfect for fans who want their fantasy with a heavy dose of feelings.
Tropes:
• Broken souls healing together
• Why Choose / Polyamory
• Grumpy x Sunshine (x Deadly?)
• Vampires & Demons
Highlyyyyyyy recommend!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Not all clipped wings can heal in the darkness... but sometimes they find the light in others."
First off, a huge thank you to Carliann Jean for this ARC! I went into The Frost that Burns expecting a spicy dark fantasy, but I didn't expect to have my heart completely ripped out and put back together again.
The Vibe:
Imagine a Starlit Festival where the wine is bloody, the dancing is lethal, and the romance is… uhhh complicated. This book gives us Keres, a ruby vampire who is so used to being a weapon for a cruel queen that she doesn’t know how to be a person. Then enter Ares (the charming, deadly General) and Tristan (the grumpy Royal Adviser who would rather be reading books— hella relatable).
Lemme talk about the characters !
Keres: She is heartbreakingly fierce. Watching her go from a weapon to a woman allowing herself to want things? Beautiful.
Ares: The man hides behind a mask of charm, but the way he looks at Keres? The tension was palpable.
Tristan: Oh, my grumpy king. I am a sucker for the "I hate everyone but you" trope, and his resistance to the festival (and feelings in general) made his eventual unraveling so much more satisfying.
We love a messy, healing, "why choose" dynamic. The chemistry between Keres, Ares, and Tristan felt earned. It wasn’t just about the spice (though, phew, the spice is definitely there and it is good), it was about three broken souls realizing they didn't have to be broken alone. The connection between Ares and Tristan specifically added such a good layer of history and angst to the trio.
You can tell the author has a background in mental health because the trauma representation was handled with so much care. It didn't shy away from the darkness of their pasts, but the focus was always on healing and autonomy.
Final verdict ?
If you love dark fantasy with broken characters finding their found family (and soulmates), distinct personalities, and a romance that balances "sinful desires" with genuine emotional healing, pick this up. It’s perfect for fans who want their fantasy with a heavy dose of feelings.
Tropes:
• Broken souls healing together
• Why Choose / Polyamory
• Grumpy x Sunshine (x Deadly?)
• Vampires & Demons
Highlyyyyyyy recommend!
February 24, 2026
Oh my dear, let me sit down and tell you about this story. The Frost That Burns by Carliann Jean is one of those dark fantasy romances that feels cold and sharp at first, but underneath it all there is a tender heart beating warmly.
The story follows Keres, a ruby vampire who has lived under control and cruelty for far too long. She has been shaped by power, by expectations, and by a world that demands strength in ways that leave scars. What touched me most was not just her strength, but her vulnerability. She is not fearless. She is hurting. And yet she keeps going. There is something deeply human about that kind of quiet endurance.
Then comes the romance, and oh my, it is not simple. Keres finds herself connected to two men, each carrying their own burdens and wounds. Their relationships are layered with tension, longing, confusion, and healing. It is not just about passion. It is about learning to trust, to communicate, and to choose one another despite fear. That is what makes it feel sincere rather than shallow.
Now, I will say this gently. This book carries heavy themes. There is trauma, emotional pain, and moments that may feel intense. The romance has heat, but it is not empty heat. It is woven into the emotional growth of the characters. For readers who appreciate depth alongside desire, this balance may feel meaningful.
The world itself has an icy elegance to it. The magic, the power structures, and the darker tone create a setting that feels both dangerous and enchanting. At times you may wish for even more exploration of the world, but what is there serves the emotional core of the story well.
Overall, The Frost That Burns feels like a story about reclaiming oneself. It is about finding love after damage, about stepping into your own power, and about allowing yourself to be seen fully. It may be wrapped in shadows and frost, but there is warmth at its center.
If I were handing this to you, I would say curl up somewhere comfortable, maybe with a warm drink, and prepare for a story that is both sharp and soft at the same time. Some tales chill you. This one chills you and then gently teaches you how to thaw.
The story follows Keres, a ruby vampire who has lived under control and cruelty for far too long. She has been shaped by power, by expectations, and by a world that demands strength in ways that leave scars. What touched me most was not just her strength, but her vulnerability. She is not fearless. She is hurting. And yet she keeps going. There is something deeply human about that kind of quiet endurance.
Then comes the romance, and oh my, it is not simple. Keres finds herself connected to two men, each carrying their own burdens and wounds. Their relationships are layered with tension, longing, confusion, and healing. It is not just about passion. It is about learning to trust, to communicate, and to choose one another despite fear. That is what makes it feel sincere rather than shallow.
Now, I will say this gently. This book carries heavy themes. There is trauma, emotional pain, and moments that may feel intense. The romance has heat, but it is not empty heat. It is woven into the emotional growth of the characters. For readers who appreciate depth alongside desire, this balance may feel meaningful.
The world itself has an icy elegance to it. The magic, the power structures, and the darker tone create a setting that feels both dangerous and enchanting. At times you may wish for even more exploration of the world, but what is there serves the emotional core of the story well.
Overall, The Frost That Burns feels like a story about reclaiming oneself. It is about finding love after damage, about stepping into your own power, and about allowing yourself to be seen fully. It may be wrapped in shadows and frost, but there is warmth at its center.
If I were handing this to you, I would say curl up somewhere comfortable, maybe with a warm drink, and prepare for a story that is both sharp and soft at the same time. Some tales chill you. This one chills you and then gently teaches you how to thaw.
February 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 Review of The Frost That Burns by Carliann Jean
The Frost That Burns is one of those rare fantasy romances that hooks you on page one and refuses to let go. Carliann Jean crafts a world that feels both immersive and beautifully dangerous, weaving icy landscapes, simmering tension, and intricate lore into a setting that feels fully lived‑in. The world‑building is layered without ever becoming overwhelming—Jean reveals just enough at every turn to keep you curious, drawing you deeper into political factions, cultural nuances, and the elemental magic system that pulses beneath the story. It’s the kind of world that feels easy to picture yet expansive enough to explore for several books.
One of the standout strengths for me is the use of multiple POVs. It’s done so well—each voice distinct, emotionally grounded, and adding something meaningful to the narrative. Instead of feeling scattered, the rotating perspectives enhance the tension, enrich the relationships, and provide a more complete view of the world’s conflicts. I loved how the shifting viewpoints allowed me to connect with different characters on a deeper level, especially when their desires, fears, and loyalties began to collide.
The character dynamics are another highlight. Jean balances romance, rivalry, and personal growth with ease, letting each thread build toward explosive moments without sacrificing quieter emotional beats. The pacing stays engaging throughout, with enough twists to keep you invested but enough breathing room to savor character development. If anything, my one small critique—the reason for the half‑star deduction—is that I occasionally wanted just a bit more time spent unpacking certain emotional moments before the plot pushed forward again.
Overall, The Frost That Burns is a gripping, atmospheric, and character‑driven fantasy that delivers on both world‑building and emotional depth. If you love rich settings, intentional storytelling, and the thrill of following multiple viewpoints through a tangled, high‑stakes plot, this book is an absolute must‑read.
The Frost That Burns is one of those rare fantasy romances that hooks you on page one and refuses to let go. Carliann Jean crafts a world that feels both immersive and beautifully dangerous, weaving icy landscapes, simmering tension, and intricate lore into a setting that feels fully lived‑in. The world‑building is layered without ever becoming overwhelming—Jean reveals just enough at every turn to keep you curious, drawing you deeper into political factions, cultural nuances, and the elemental magic system that pulses beneath the story. It’s the kind of world that feels easy to picture yet expansive enough to explore for several books.
One of the standout strengths for me is the use of multiple POVs. It’s done so well—each voice distinct, emotionally grounded, and adding something meaningful to the narrative. Instead of feeling scattered, the rotating perspectives enhance the tension, enrich the relationships, and provide a more complete view of the world’s conflicts. I loved how the shifting viewpoints allowed me to connect with different characters on a deeper level, especially when their desires, fears, and loyalties began to collide.
The character dynamics are another highlight. Jean balances romance, rivalry, and personal growth with ease, letting each thread build toward explosive moments without sacrificing quieter emotional beats. The pacing stays engaging throughout, with enough twists to keep you invested but enough breathing room to savor character development. If anything, my one small critique—the reason for the half‑star deduction—is that I occasionally wanted just a bit more time spent unpacking certain emotional moments before the plot pushed forward again.
Overall, The Frost That Burns is a gripping, atmospheric, and character‑driven fantasy that delivers on both world‑building and emotional depth. If you love rich settings, intentional storytelling, and the thrill of following multiple viewpoints through a tangled, high‑stakes plot, this book is an absolute must‑read.
March 3, 2026
🚨 WARNING: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS 🚨
This was my first fantasy book since finishing Onyx Storm… and it took me THREE MONTHS to pick one up again... Well, I am SO glad I did!!
This book absolutely PULLED me in! I binged it in one day lol. It reminded me why I love fantasy so much and was the book I needed to read this genre again! 😍
Keres fascinated me. Although she was shackled to the Queen, she was strong, fierce and determined as all hell to be happy. The fact that she bonds with not one, but TWO mates, complete polar opposites, happens to be besties and both with rare, powerful magic?? EEEK! I was rollinggggg around giggling!! 🤣
And then the twist of the guys also mating?? OUFFFFFFFFF 🥵🥵🥵 Didn't see it coming! It was delicious 😈
The chemistry between all three of them was insane, but what really made this book shine for me was the vulnerability. It wasn’t just spice (though yes… very hot and sexy 🔥) But it was about trust. Trusting each other. Trusting the bond. Letting themselves be seen. It was great watching the walls drop all around and them accepting their fate.
For a novella, this was incredibly well done. It didn’t feel rushed. The world-building was clear, the dynamics were explained well, and the emotional depth has me wanting moreeee!
And of course, HEA secured! Because we do not recover from anything else lol 😌
The way it ended though??? It absolutely opens the door for more! Especially with the Queen potentially retaliating. And I NEED another book! I need to see where this trio goes with their bond and their powers!
This was the fantasy reset I didn’t know I needed, thank you so much Carliann, please tell me there's more coming!!!!
If you love:
❄️ Dark romantasy
🔥 Why choose / bonded mates
⚔️ Rare powers
💫 Emotional vulnerability with spice
👑 Future political retaliation tension
Read this immediately 😍
This was my first fantasy book since finishing Onyx Storm… and it took me THREE MONTHS to pick one up again... Well, I am SO glad I did!!
This book absolutely PULLED me in! I binged it in one day lol. It reminded me why I love fantasy so much and was the book I needed to read this genre again! 😍
Keres fascinated me. Although she was shackled to the Queen, she was strong, fierce and determined as all hell to be happy. The fact that she bonds with not one, but TWO mates, complete polar opposites, happens to be besties and both with rare, powerful magic?? EEEK! I was rollinggggg around giggling!! 🤣
And then the twist of the guys also mating?? OUFFFFFFFFF 🥵🥵🥵 Didn't see it coming! It was delicious 😈
The chemistry between all three of them was insane, but what really made this book shine for me was the vulnerability. It wasn’t just spice (though yes… very hot and sexy 🔥) But it was about trust. Trusting each other. Trusting the bond. Letting themselves be seen. It was great watching the walls drop all around and them accepting their fate.
For a novella, this was incredibly well done. It didn’t feel rushed. The world-building was clear, the dynamics were explained well, and the emotional depth has me wanting moreeee!
And of course, HEA secured! Because we do not recover from anything else lol 😌
The way it ended though??? It absolutely opens the door for more! Especially with the Queen potentially retaliating. And I NEED another book! I need to see where this trio goes with their bond and their powers!
This was the fantasy reset I didn’t know I needed, thank you so much Carliann, please tell me there's more coming!!!!
If you love:
❄️ Dark romantasy
🔥 Why choose / bonded mates
⚔️ Rare powers
💫 Emotional vulnerability with spice
👑 Future political retaliation tension
Read this immediately 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Frost That Burns is the first book I have read by Carliann Jean. It is a fantasy romance story with a high focus on the romance between the characters. You want characters learning to let go of their hesitations and fall in love, mixed with some spice and a good time? Then this book is for you!
This book is about learning who you are and breaking the expectations of what you and others thought you were. Each character has their own issues to deal with, baggage they have to shed, so they can grow, but also to allow the other characters in and allow the relationships to grow.
It is a novella, and it is focused on the relationships between the three main characters, not so much a bigger plot. I do hope for more in this world with these characters though. I want to dive so much deeper into who they are and how they got to where they are when this story starts. I also want to see how their relationships grow and strengthen over time as they navigate their lives together.
Also, I need to know more about what’s going on with Keres’ bestie and her mate. That is a story that needs to be told! Also a story for another day.
In The Frost That Burns we get three POVs with Keres, Ares, and Tristan. Each one has a very different and distinct personality. They are all different from each other and yet balance each other out. Broody, meets avoidant, meets puppy dog. They all come together to make a delicious trio that had me smiling, giggling, and wanting more from the very beginning.
This book was a lot of fun. It was short, easy to read, and just a good story. The characters were all likeable and believable. The novella was meant to focus on them meeting and developing the trust needed for their relationship. I normally prefer to have something more to a story, some level of depth for a plot line, but this was just meant to introduce the characters and the world. I look forward to future stories in this world to help get a deeper understanding of everything going on, because there was a lot mentioned that could open the doors for a much bigger and deeper story.
If you like a good story, with some delicious spice, then this is a story you must try!
This book is about learning who you are and breaking the expectations of what you and others thought you were. Each character has their own issues to deal with, baggage they have to shed, so they can grow, but also to allow the other characters in and allow the relationships to grow.
It is a novella, and it is focused on the relationships between the three main characters, not so much a bigger plot. I do hope for more in this world with these characters though. I want to dive so much deeper into who they are and how they got to where they are when this story starts. I also want to see how their relationships grow and strengthen over time as they navigate their lives together.
Also, I need to know more about what’s going on with Keres’ bestie and her mate. That is a story that needs to be told! Also a story for another day.
In The Frost That Burns we get three POVs with Keres, Ares, and Tristan. Each one has a very different and distinct personality. They are all different from each other and yet balance each other out. Broody, meets avoidant, meets puppy dog. They all come together to make a delicious trio that had me smiling, giggling, and wanting more from the very beginning.
This book was a lot of fun. It was short, easy to read, and just a good story. The characters were all likeable and believable. The novella was meant to focus on them meeting and developing the trust needed for their relationship. I normally prefer to have something more to a story, some level of depth for a plot line, but this was just meant to introduce the characters and the world. I look forward to future stories in this world to help get a deeper understanding of everything going on, because there was a lot mentioned that could open the doors for a much bigger and deeper story.
If you like a good story, with some delicious spice, then this is a story you must try!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, the world-building is AMAZING. You learn so much in just the first chapter alone. I loved the multi-POV, the different Courts and their ranks, and how every character is well written and truly essential to the story.
Keres is everything. She’s a total badass, morally gray female lead, and her boys absolutely adore her. General Ares? Completely swoon-worthy. I was giggling and kicking my feet reading his inner monologue. He was instantly smitten with Keres, and I loved that he actually had to fight for her attention. Tristan is equally adorable—from being dragged to the Starlit Festival by Ares despite preferring the company of books (especially romance books), to being fully devoted to his Red Queen. Both of them are so swoony.
The book is fast-paced and a quick read, but despite that, it’s incredibly well written. The ending didn’t feel rushed at all—it felt complete, like a full circle for their relationship, while still leaving plenty of room to explore Celia and the world further. The banter was also hilarious at times, especially during their first few interactions.
The relationship dynamic isn’t a slow burn—they accept each other fairly quickly—but watching them explore their bond is genuinely endearing. As readers, we’re discovering their feelings right alongside them. This is especially impactful with Tristan and Ares, as their relationship slowly shifts from best friends to something deeper, and Tristan learns to accept their bond.
I also loved the representation in this book, particularly when it comes to queer and disability rep. Mental health is thoughtfully explored throughout the story and within their relationship, which added so much depth.
Keres is everything. She’s a total badass, morally gray female lead, and her boys absolutely adore her. General Ares? Completely swoon-worthy. I was giggling and kicking my feet reading his inner monologue. He was instantly smitten with Keres, and I loved that he actually had to fight for her attention. Tristan is equally adorable—from being dragged to the Starlit Festival by Ares despite preferring the company of books (especially romance books), to being fully devoted to his Red Queen. Both of them are so swoony.
The book is fast-paced and a quick read, but despite that, it’s incredibly well written. The ending didn’t feel rushed at all—it felt complete, like a full circle for their relationship, while still leaving plenty of room to explore Celia and the world further. The banter was also hilarious at times, especially during their first few interactions.
The relationship dynamic isn’t a slow burn—they accept each other fairly quickly—but watching them explore their bond is genuinely endearing. As readers, we’re discovering their feelings right alongside them. This is especially impactful with Tristan and Ares, as their relationship slowly shifts from best friends to something deeper, and Tristan learns to accept their bond.
I also loved the representation in this book, particularly when it comes to queer and disability rep. Mental health is thoughtfully explored throughout the story and within their relationship, which added so much depth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dedication: “To those who are drowning in their darkness yet still reach for love. This is for you.”
This MFM dark fantasy romance is not only full of tantalizing spice, it tells the story of three broken souls finding refuge and healing through the unconditional love of their soulmates. With MCs who reside in the underworld and have endured numerous traumas, these characters clawed right into my heart, and I already want more of Keres, Ares and Tristan, not to mention Celia and Nastrond.
My Synopsis:
Keres, a ruby vampire, has lived under the control of the queen and suffered horrible abuse at her hands leaving her traumatized and unwilling to connect with anyone other than her best friend, Celia. When Celia talks her into attending the Starlight Festival where lucky ones find their soulmates, Keres knows that even if she finds one, she’ll never escape the queen. When she learns she has not one, but two soulmates, she has to not only open her heart, but escape the queen’s mental and physical chains in order to have a future with them.
My Thoughts:
Carliann Jean writes characters with depth and heart, and I couldn’t help but want these wounded souls to heal and find love. My heart felt an immediate connection with Tristan and his desire to retreat into books to escape his past and pain from his physical injuries. Ares and Keres seeing him and loving him brought me to tears! I adored Ares and Tristan’s unwavering devotion to Keres, and the way they take care of her had me swooning. I mean who wouldn’t want two demons who adore you, buy you chocolates and jewels and build you a throne, so you can be their queen?!! Where do I sign up?
If you love your spice to be an expression of a loving relationship, a story with broken characters who learn to love themselves and then each other set in an underworld filled with magical realms and powers, this one is for you. With a war general shadow daddy, an icy demon raven shifter and an FMC who’s quite stabby, the banter is non-stop, and you’ll be cheering for these three to claim each other and seal their bond! Highly recommend, and it would be a perfect read for Valentine’s day!❤️
This MFM dark fantasy romance is not only full of tantalizing spice, it tells the story of three broken souls finding refuge and healing through the unconditional love of their soulmates. With MCs who reside in the underworld and have endured numerous traumas, these characters clawed right into my heart, and I already want more of Keres, Ares and Tristan, not to mention Celia and Nastrond.
My Synopsis:
Keres, a ruby vampire, has lived under the control of the queen and suffered horrible abuse at her hands leaving her traumatized and unwilling to connect with anyone other than her best friend, Celia. When Celia talks her into attending the Starlight Festival where lucky ones find their soulmates, Keres knows that even if she finds one, she’ll never escape the queen. When she learns she has not one, but two soulmates, she has to not only open her heart, but escape the queen’s mental and physical chains in order to have a future with them.
My Thoughts:
Carliann Jean writes characters with depth and heart, and I couldn’t help but want these wounded souls to heal and find love. My heart felt an immediate connection with Tristan and his desire to retreat into books to escape his past and pain from his physical injuries. Ares and Keres seeing him and loving him brought me to tears! I adored Ares and Tristan’s unwavering devotion to Keres, and the way they take care of her had me swooning. I mean who wouldn’t want two demons who adore you, buy you chocolates and jewels and build you a throne, so you can be their queen?!! Where do I sign up?
If you love your spice to be an expression of a loving relationship, a story with broken characters who learn to love themselves and then each other set in an underworld filled with magical realms and powers, this one is for you. With a war general shadow daddy, an icy demon raven shifter and an FMC who’s quite stabby, the banter is non-stop, and you’ll be cheering for these three to claim each other and seal their bond! Highly recommend, and it would be a perfect read for Valentine’s day!❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
• 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - February 10, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
-why choose romance
- fated mates
- dark fantasy romance
- touch her and die
- trauma healing
- morally grey characters
- demons x vampire
- slow burn but spicy
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
The Frost That Burns is a dark fantasy romance set in the Underworld, where a powerful vampire heroine is trapped under a cruel queen’s control. During a soulmate festival, she unexpectedly forms a bond with two demons who were never meant to be hers. What follows is a story full of danger, desire, healing, and choosing love even when the world is against you.
This book completely owned my heart. The writing is emotional, intense, and addictive from the first chapter. Keres is such a strong yet broken FMC, and watching her slowly reclaim her body, her voice, and her choices felt so powerful. Ares is pure protective dominance, while Tristan is soft pain wrapped in ice, and together they balance each other so beautifully.
The romance is deep, consensual, and healing, not rushed at all. The spice is hot but meaningful, and every intimate moment carries emotion. I loved how trauma, boundaries, and trust were handled so gently. The found family vibes, the darkness of the Underworld, and the constant threat of the queen kept me hooked till the very end.
This book made me feel things. It hurt. It healed. It burned. And I already need more from this world.
Thank you so much author for the free ARC!
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - February 10, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
-why choose romance
- fated mates
- dark fantasy romance
- touch her and die
- trauma healing
- morally grey characters
- demons x vampire
- slow burn but spicy
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
The Frost That Burns is a dark fantasy romance set in the Underworld, where a powerful vampire heroine is trapped under a cruel queen’s control. During a soulmate festival, she unexpectedly forms a bond with two demons who were never meant to be hers. What follows is a story full of danger, desire, healing, and choosing love even when the world is against you.
This book completely owned my heart. The writing is emotional, intense, and addictive from the first chapter. Keres is such a strong yet broken FMC, and watching her slowly reclaim her body, her voice, and her choices felt so powerful. Ares is pure protective dominance, while Tristan is soft pain wrapped in ice, and together they balance each other so beautifully.
The romance is deep, consensual, and healing, not rushed at all. The spice is hot but meaningful, and every intimate moment carries emotion. I loved how trauma, boundaries, and trust were handled so gently. The found family vibes, the darkness of the Underworld, and the constant threat of the queen kept me hooked till the very end.
This book made me feel things. It hurt. It healed. It burned. And I already need more from this world.
Thank you so much author for the free ARC!
February 11, 2026
This book blends the dark underworld with Valentine’s in such a unique way. The creatures of this world celebrate a Starlit Festival where they search for their soulmates—and it was such a fun twist on the idea of fate and destiny.
We follow three MCs: Keres, Ares, and Tristan, who discover they’re all soulmates—forming a perfect, passionate throuple. Each of them is carrying their own trauma and feelings of unworthiness, believing in different ways that they’re too broken to be loved. Watching them slowly open up, accept one another, and make themselves vulnerable was beautiful.
I especially loved the disability representation with Tristan. His belief that no one could truly love someone “broken” was heartbreaking. Seeing him find not just one, but two people who love, support, and cherish him was incredibly powerful. It was such a strong reminder that there is always someone out there meant to love you exactly as you are.
And while the dynamic between all three was intense and emotional, I have to admit—the scenes between Ares and Tristan were my absolute favorite. Their connection really stood out to me.
Dark, emotional, and full of fate-bound love—this one was such a memorable read.
Tropes:
🔥Dark & Spicy Novella
❄️Soulmate Bonds
🔥Why Choose / MMF
🔥Cane & Shadow Play
❄️Mental Health Rep
❄️Disability Rep
🔥Assassin FMC (stabby assassin vampire)
🔥Demon MMC
🔥Raven Shifter
🔥War General / Shadow Daddy
❄️Trauma & Healing
🔥Claiming / Marking
❄️Banter
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
We follow three MCs: Keres, Ares, and Tristan, who discover they’re all soulmates—forming a perfect, passionate throuple. Each of them is carrying their own trauma and feelings of unworthiness, believing in different ways that they’re too broken to be loved. Watching them slowly open up, accept one another, and make themselves vulnerable was beautiful.
I especially loved the disability representation with Tristan. His belief that no one could truly love someone “broken” was heartbreaking. Seeing him find not just one, but two people who love, support, and cherish him was incredibly powerful. It was such a strong reminder that there is always someone out there meant to love you exactly as you are.
And while the dynamic between all three was intense and emotional, I have to admit—the scenes between Ares and Tristan were my absolute favorite. Their connection really stood out to me.
Dark, emotional, and full of fate-bound love—this one was such a memorable read.
Tropes:
🔥Dark & Spicy Novella
❄️Soulmate Bonds
🔥Why Choose / MMF
🔥Cane & Shadow Play
❄️Mental Health Rep
❄️Disability Rep
🔥Assassin FMC (stabby assassin vampire)
🔥Demon MMC
🔥Raven Shifter
🔥War General / Shadow Daddy
❄️Trauma & Healing
🔥Claiming / Marking
❄️Banter
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 15, 2026
There is something powerful about a romance that unfolds in the Underworld yet feels deeply human.
"The Frost That Burns" gives a dark, sensual, emotionally layered why, choose romance centered on three damaged souls who learn that love doesn’t erase trauma, it makes space for it.
Keres is fierce, morally gray, and unapologetically lethal. She is not waiting to be saved. Ares carries centuries of brutality behind a charming mask. Tristan carries grief, injury, and quiet self-doubt behind sharp intellect and distance. Together, their dynamic feels balanced and intentional. No one disappears inside the relationship. Each brings strength and vulnerability.
The spice is intense, but what stood out to me was how intimacy was written as an extension of emotional trust. Desire becomes reclamation. Vulnerability becomes power.
The disability representation was handled with care and respect. Nothing is magically fixed. Accessibility, support, and devotion are part of the relationship rather than an afterthought. That mattered.
The worldbuilding adds atmosphere without distracting from the emotional core. It begins with enemies-to-lovers tension and evolves into something surprisingly tender.
If you enjoy: Dark fantasy romance, Why choose with MM, Morally gray FMCs, Grumpy intellectual MMCs, Shadow general energy, Healing journeys that feel real...This one is worth the read.
I’m hoping this isn’t the last we see of these characters.
"The Frost That Burns" gives a dark, sensual, emotionally layered why, choose romance centered on three damaged souls who learn that love doesn’t erase trauma, it makes space for it.
Keres is fierce, morally gray, and unapologetically lethal. She is not waiting to be saved. Ares carries centuries of brutality behind a charming mask. Tristan carries grief, injury, and quiet self-doubt behind sharp intellect and distance. Together, their dynamic feels balanced and intentional. No one disappears inside the relationship. Each brings strength and vulnerability.
The spice is intense, but what stood out to me was how intimacy was written as an extension of emotional trust. Desire becomes reclamation. Vulnerability becomes power.
The disability representation was handled with care and respect. Nothing is magically fixed. Accessibility, support, and devotion are part of the relationship rather than an afterthought. That mattered.
The worldbuilding adds atmosphere without distracting from the emotional core. It begins with enemies-to-lovers tension and evolves into something surprisingly tender.
If you enjoy: Dark fantasy romance, Why choose with MM, Morally gray FMCs, Grumpy intellectual MMCs, Shadow general energy, Healing journeys that feel real...This one is worth the read.
I’m hoping this isn’t the last we see of these characters.
February 25, 2026
The Frost That Burns by Carliann Jean
From the first pages, I was pulled into a world of vampires, demon generals, & not bears but oh my, this was good. It is gritty and romantic in equal measure, the kind of story that lets broken characters reach for something soft even when they believe they do not deserve it.
Keres (FMC) is sharp edged and aching beneath the surface, and watching that guarded exterior slowly fracture was one of my favorite parts of the book. Ares (MMC) brings heat in more ways than one, powerful and commanding but layered with emotional depth that keeps him from feeling one dimensional. Their dynamic is charged, complicated, and full of tension that absolutely delivers.
Saving the best for last, there is Tristan (MMC), who quietly stole so many scenes for me. I am an absolute sucker for the character who does not believe in love or thinks they are not good enough to be loved. Tristan carries that weight heavily, and seeing the cracks in his armor made his moments hit even harder. His internal struggle added an emotional depth that balanced the spice beautifully. A reminder that even frost can burn.
Feeling spicy or in a reading slump? I think this why choose will hit the spot. 😏😏😏😏 Oh, and which MMC is my favorite? I’m not telling… you know you love me. XOXO, Gossip Girl.
Please read TW’s before reading this novella, because YOU MATTER & so does your mental health. 💚
From the first pages, I was pulled into a world of vampires, demon generals, & not bears but oh my, this was good. It is gritty and romantic in equal measure, the kind of story that lets broken characters reach for something soft even when they believe they do not deserve it.
Keres (FMC) is sharp edged and aching beneath the surface, and watching that guarded exterior slowly fracture was one of my favorite parts of the book. Ares (MMC) brings heat in more ways than one, powerful and commanding but layered with emotional depth that keeps him from feeling one dimensional. Their dynamic is charged, complicated, and full of tension that absolutely delivers.
Saving the best for last, there is Tristan (MMC), who quietly stole so many scenes for me. I am an absolute sucker for the character who does not believe in love or thinks they are not good enough to be loved. Tristan carries that weight heavily, and seeing the cracks in his armor made his moments hit even harder. His internal struggle added an emotional depth that balanced the spice beautifully. A reminder that even frost can burn.
Feeling spicy or in a reading slump? I think this why choose will hit the spot. 😏😏😏😏 Oh, and which MMC is my favorite? I’m not telling… you know you love me. XOXO, Gossip Girl.
Please read TW’s before reading this novella, because YOU MATTER & so does your mental health. 💚
January 27, 2026
What a cute story! In the Underworld everyone is prepping for war. The Queen is showing a thirst for blood even her lords can’t ignore.
Keres is the Queen’s blood vampire tied to her by contract. She’s given up hope of escaping her fate and is starting to drown. Her best friend Celia convinces her to take advantage of their time off and attend the Starlight Festival. Designed to entice the creatures of the Underworld to find their fated mates and bond.
Ares is the General of the Lord of Wrath’s army. For such a scary demon, he’s vibrating with excitement to attend the Starlight Festival. Mixing a little work with pleasure, he’s hoping to spy on the Queen and poison her blood vampire.
Tristan is the Advisor to the Lord of Wrath and childhood bestie to Ares. He could not be dreading the Starlight Festival more. His battle scars are more than skin deep affecting his heart and hope.
When these four stumble into each other, literal sparks fly!
I was privileged to receive an ARC of this book and have been honest in my review of it. I did not receive anything in exchange for my review.
—-
It took me a chapter to get into the rhythm. But once I did it was an amazing ride! I would advise that the character art not be included in the final version or to be done more professionally. The art doesn’t match the book theme and the two pieces are contradictory to each other. This did not affect my rating.
I love the world building. The characters. The concept. It’s got dark themes that are appropriately used to further this story and character depth. I adore it. Excited to read this author again!
Keres is the Queen’s blood vampire tied to her by contract. She’s given up hope of escaping her fate and is starting to drown. Her best friend Celia convinces her to take advantage of their time off and attend the Starlight Festival. Designed to entice the creatures of the Underworld to find their fated mates and bond.
Ares is the General of the Lord of Wrath’s army. For such a scary demon, he’s vibrating with excitement to attend the Starlight Festival. Mixing a little work with pleasure, he’s hoping to spy on the Queen and poison her blood vampire.
Tristan is the Advisor to the Lord of Wrath and childhood bestie to Ares. He could not be dreading the Starlight Festival more. His battle scars are more than skin deep affecting his heart and hope.
When these four stumble into each other, literal sparks fly!
I was privileged to receive an ARC of this book and have been honest in my review of it. I did not receive anything in exchange for my review.
—-
It took me a chapter to get into the rhythm. But once I did it was an amazing ride! I would advise that the character art not be included in the final version or to be done more professionally. The art doesn’t match the book theme and the two pieces are contradictory to each other. This did not affect my rating.
I love the world building. The characters. The concept. It’s got dark themes that are appropriately used to further this story and character depth. I adore it. Excited to read this author again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Frost that Burns by Carliann Jean was a spicy, quick, darker why chose romance. Did I read it one sitting? Yes! Did I have a great time? Also, yes! The characters are great, and I’m looking forward to seeing them return in a full-length book.
The Frost that Burns is set in the underworld. The politics in this underworld are interesting, and I look forward to diving into it more in future books. But the real focus of this book is our FMC finding her mates.
The characters were a good balance together. The romance was fun and cute. The spice was plenty and also fun. The pacing is what you would expect for this type of story. The magic system was pretty cool. And I thought the different types of vampires were very interesting. All that said, Jean did a fabulous job of casually including disability representation as well. The MMCs are the perfect book boyfriends and are definitely easy to obsess over.
TL;DR: The Frost that Burns is a short, MMF, demons x vampire, dark romantasy, and I definitely recommend it to those who are into those tropes. I’m super excited to read the Jean’s other books!
*The Frost that Burns is on the darker side, so be sure to check those trigger warnings before reading.*
Thank you Carliann Jean for the gifted eARC!
The Frost that Burns is set in the underworld. The politics in this underworld are interesting, and I look forward to diving into it more in future books. But the real focus of this book is our FMC finding her mates.
The characters were a good balance together. The romance was fun and cute. The spice was plenty and also fun. The pacing is what you would expect for this type of story. The magic system was pretty cool. And I thought the different types of vampires were very interesting. All that said, Jean did a fabulous job of casually including disability representation as well. The MMCs are the perfect book boyfriends and are definitely easy to obsess over.
TL;DR: The Frost that Burns is a short, MMF, demons x vampire, dark romantasy, and I definitely recommend it to those who are into those tropes. I’m super excited to read the Jean’s other books!
*The Frost that Burns is on the darker side, so be sure to check those trigger warnings before reading.*
Thank you Carliann Jean for the gifted eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free copy of this book via Booksiren and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This novella is the author's first queer book, and I'm very satisfied, surprised actually. Because it was very good and beautifully written! Keres is a badass vampire who doesn't believe in love. Or at least that she's not worthy of feeling loved.
In Hell, there's a festival taking place in the style of Valentine's Day here on Earth. There, she finds a direct connection with two demons who also have many scars and struggle with their belief in love.
The three of them come together beautifully, and with each bonding event they gain more confidence in themselves and in each other.
And writing about a MC who is disabled is very complicated, but I myself am disabled and struggle with emotional difficulties. She writes it beautifully and accurately. It's wonderful to read about it and experience their healing process, even though I'm not ready for it yet.
The spice is amazing, we have to wait a bit for it, but it's definitely worth it! And we have a dirty talker in the threesome, I love it!
There are hints of future novellas, and I'm sure I want to read them! For an Indie author, this is a wonderful start. One I'll definitely be following!
This novella is the author's first queer book, and I'm very satisfied, surprised actually. Because it was very good and beautifully written! Keres is a badass vampire who doesn't believe in love. Or at least that she's not worthy of feeling loved.
In Hell, there's a festival taking place in the style of Valentine's Day here on Earth. There, she finds a direct connection with two demons who also have many scars and struggle with their belief in love.
The three of them come together beautifully, and with each bonding event they gain more confidence in themselves and in each other.
And writing about a MC who is disabled is very complicated, but I myself am disabled and struggle with emotional difficulties. She writes it beautifully and accurately. It's wonderful to read about it and experience their healing process, even though I'm not ready for it yet.
The spice is amazing, we have to wait a bit for it, but it's definitely worth it! And we have a dirty talker in the threesome, I love it!
There are hints of future novellas, and I'm sure I want to read them! For an Indie author, this is a wonderful start. One I'll definitely be following!
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