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The Frost that Burns
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26
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
Expected publication February 10, 2026
18 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
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.
January 16, 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
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.
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.
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
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
"𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐯𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭."
- 𝔸ℝℂ 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 -
rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice : 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I am obsessssed with this novella!! There was so much mental health and disability representation — which are reoccurring themes in @carliannjean books, and she always does it so beautifully. characters were vicious but sweet, and it was so freaking spicy!! From the plot, the ⚔️, and the banter .. it was all *chef's kiss*
the FMC is a fiesty and badass vampire who was forced into servitude as a vampling by the horrible Queen of the Underworld. But when she manages to get a week off of duty during the Starlight Festival of Love, she plans on taking full advantage of the small freedom. and I cackled so hard when Keres bonds with two demons, but these men were a very interesting pair! I loved Keres so much, she's strong and independent, so having two males now doting on her was entertaining as hell and i enjoyed watching her adapt to her new dynamic
I loved the MMCs immediately! Both so different; Ares was so bold and protective, and Tristan was kinder but with frost in his soul, but the same in their devotion to Keres. They had me swooooning at every chance! the big bad war general, Ares was my favourite though. I thoroughly adored his golden retriever attitude and the banter he had with Keres, it kept sending me into fits of cackles and feet kicking .. he may be obsessed with her, but I am definitely obsessed with him 🤭
-
This one's a bit special to me because it was my first time being a Beta reader, and the experience was phenomenal! I adored being apart of the Carliann Jean's writing process, and then recieving the ARC to see all the changes was amazing! I have such love for her, and she's someone i call a friend and i feel so lucky to be in her corner ♡
- 𝔸ℝℂ 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 -
rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice : 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I am obsessssed with this novella!! There was so much mental health and disability representation — which are reoccurring themes in @carliannjean books, and she always does it so beautifully. characters were vicious but sweet, and it was so freaking spicy!! From the plot, the ⚔️, and the banter .. it was all *chef's kiss*
the FMC is a fiesty and badass vampire who was forced into servitude as a vampling by the horrible Queen of the Underworld. But when she manages to get a week off of duty during the Starlight Festival of Love, she plans on taking full advantage of the small freedom. and I cackled so hard when Keres bonds with two demons, but these men were a very interesting pair! I loved Keres so much, she's strong and independent, so having two males now doting on her was entertaining as hell and i enjoyed watching her adapt to her new dynamic
I loved the MMCs immediately! Both so different; Ares was so bold and protective, and Tristan was kinder but with frost in his soul, but the same in their devotion to Keres. They had me swooooning at every chance! the big bad war general, Ares was my favourite though. I thoroughly adored his golden retriever attitude and the banter he had with Keres, it kept sending me into fits of cackles and feet kicking .. he may be obsessed with her, but I am definitely obsessed with him 🤭
-
This one's a bit special to me because it was my first time being a Beta reader, and the experience was phenomenal! I adored being apart of the Carliann Jean's writing process, and then recieving the ARC to see all the changes was amazing! I have such love for her, and she's someone i call a friend and i feel so lucky to be in her corner ♡
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!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark rom-com novella
Set in the depths of Hell/The Underworld, The Frost That Burns follows Keres, a vampire who attends the Starlit Festival (aka the Love Festival) just to support a friend… and accidentally walks away with two demon soulmates.
Enter:
Ares — demon, general of the Lord of Wrath’s army
Tristan — ice demon, advisor to the Lord of Wrath
This very much gives reverse grumpy x sunshine,
with an instant soulmate bond that sparks the moment the festival begins.
What worked for me:
✨ Fun, imaginative Underworld setting
✨ Quick, addictive pacing (perfect novella vibes)
✨ I genuinely caught myself wondering what the characters were doing when I wasn’t reading — always a good sign
What held it back a bit:
⚠️ The soulmate bond happens immediately,
which made the romance feel slightly rushed
⚠️ I wanted just a little more depth and tension
before everything clicked into place
Overall, this was a fun, dark, flirty read with great potential.
I think readers who love fated mates, demon MMCs, and festival magic will really enjoy this… especially if you like your romance fast and fiery.
🖤 Thank you to the author for the ARC… all thoughts are my own.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark rom-com novella
Set in the depths of Hell/The Underworld, The Frost That Burns follows Keres, a vampire who attends the Starlit Festival (aka the Love Festival) just to support a friend… and accidentally walks away with two demon soulmates.
Enter:
Ares — demon, general of the Lord of Wrath’s army
Tristan — ice demon, advisor to the Lord of Wrath
This very much gives reverse grumpy x sunshine,
with an instant soulmate bond that sparks the moment the festival begins.
What worked for me:
✨ Fun, imaginative Underworld setting
✨ Quick, addictive pacing (perfect novella vibes)
✨ I genuinely caught myself wondering what the characters were doing when I wasn’t reading — always a good sign
What held it back a bit:
⚠️ The soulmate bond happens immediately,
which made the romance feel slightly rushed
⚠️ I wanted just a little more depth and tension
before everything clicked into place
Overall, this was a fun, dark, flirty read with great potential.
I think readers who love fated mates, demon MMCs, and festival magic will really enjoy this… especially if you like your romance fast and fiery.
🖤 Thank you to the author for the ARC… all thoughts are my own.
January 27, 2026
Spicy little novella that has as much heart as it does heat. The Queen’s favorite vampire, honed for centuries to be her perfect weapon is being dragged to the festival of love by her best friend. The only way out of servitude to the Queen is finding your soul mate, but that isn’t as easy as it sounds. The world building in this novella was fantastic, the descriptions were vibrant, the friendships in this story were heartfelt and well done. The spice when they find each other? Ghost pepper level. But more than that this book has an underlying story that made me want it to continue, I need to know about Keres’s family, I want to know more about Tristan and Ares too. I can’t wait to know more about Celia’s story and Nastrond and their story together. I want to know how the Queen got power and I can’t wait to see her defeated. I’m so glad I got to ARC this novella and cannot wait for more from this series (not sure if it’s coming but a girl can hope).
Review of advance copy
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Why choose, MFM, fated mates
This is a darker themed romance book. It is beautiful. It’s a novella and I was able to read it in a day. The plot moves along quickly but not at a whiplash speed. It’s HEA and dual POV. There is a war going on in this plot so there is a darkness to the book but there is also witty banter and breathtaking spice. The underworld description is beautiful written and expansive.
FMC: Keres is an abused blood vampire for the queen. Mentally she is in a rough place.
MMCs: Ares (demon) and Tristan (ice demon) are part of the Lord of Wrath’s army. Ares wants to poison the queens blood vampire at a festival.
Carliann has left a lot of bread crumbs for future books in this series. So many things I want to find out. I can’t for the next book to come out.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you for an awesome read Carliann Jean.
Why choose, MFM, fated mates
This is a darker themed romance book. It is beautiful. It’s a novella and I was able to read it in a day. The plot moves along quickly but not at a whiplash speed. It’s HEA and dual POV. There is a war going on in this plot so there is a darkness to the book but there is also witty banter and breathtaking spice. The underworld description is beautiful written and expansive.
FMC: Keres is an abused blood vampire for the queen. Mentally she is in a rough place.
MMCs: Ares (demon) and Tristan (ice demon) are part of the Lord of Wrath’s army. Ares wants to poison the queens blood vampire at a festival.
Carliann has left a lot of bread crumbs for future books in this series. So many things I want to find out. I can’t for the next book to come out.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you for an awesome read Carliann Jean.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Arc Review
First and foremost thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to review this book.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book started out strong but for me fell off a bit about half way through. There was nothing inherently wrong with, it, but the plot was not hitting for me the way it did with others though.
That being said, the characters and their internal struggle with the mating bond was my favorite part. I loved that rather than the instant acceptance we’ve all grown accustomed to, there was some apprehension and thought put into their situation. And I really loved the world building in the story - despite being a novella, I felt we got a really good idea of hell and the way things were divided there.
While this book wasn’t for me, I would still definitely recommend especially if you love a dark why choose, fated mates romance.
First and foremost thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to review this book.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book started out strong but for me fell off a bit about half way through. There was nothing inherently wrong with, it, but the plot was not hitting for me the way it did with others though.
That being said, the characters and their internal struggle with the mating bond was my favorite part. I loved that rather than the instant acceptance we’ve all grown accustomed to, there was some apprehension and thought put into their situation. And I really loved the world building in the story - despite being a novella, I felt we got a really good idea of hell and the way things were divided there.
While this book wasn’t for me, I would still definitely recommend especially if you love a dark why choose, fated mates romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novella does cover some themes such as SA, abuse, and other themes which may affect the reader. Please check all the warnings at the beginning for your own mental health. This story follows Keres, Ares, and Tristan as they search for their soulmate in the underworld during the Starlight festival. Before they can accept their bonds, they must heal themselves and each other. Although I found the story a little slow at certain parts, it was an enjoyable and quick read. It’s perfect for dark romance readers who still want something a little softer for Valentine’s Day. This is a stand alone book with an HEA. I received this novella before its release and have given it my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this novella! Each of the three POVs struggled in relatable ways and were likable in their own way. Since soulmates were involved, it's an insta-lust situation, but I enjoyed how they navigated their feelings and boundaries. Keres, Tristan, and Ares were all great and made a fun and spicy throuple!
The world created was interesting and made for a great setup for an expansive world! I would definitely want to know more from these MCs or from other couples! The different types of creatures in hell and the other worlds opens up so many possibilities!
Perfect for fans of Katee Robert's books! Definitely a book you're going to want to read in one sitting!
The world created was interesting and made for a great setup for an expansive world! I would definitely want to know more from these MCs or from other couples! The different types of creatures in hell and the other worlds opens up so many possibilities!
Perfect for fans of Katee Robert's books! Definitely a book you're going to want to read in one sitting!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Enjoyed this 3 person POV novella. We meet Keres, a ruby vampire, as she reluctantly ventures out to the Starlit Festival with her friend Celia in search of her soulmate. What she doesn’t expect is to find two of them, especially when one was sent to poison her days before! Best friends Tristan & Ares are just as shocked to find themselves not only fated to Keres, but to each other. We embark on a highly emotional journey for all three of them; with each having their own fears about the situation they find themselves in. But as the bonds progress, & the trio take their bonding to the next level, the spice really hits! This MMF romantasy give you everything you could want.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved that this book is a romance set in a fantasy world.
I love a good fantasy and plot but the pure love story was refreshing. It shows that even people with the darkest history has a lid or two to match their pot.
The FMC learns how to trust, the MMC's are total opposites and again even a person with a disability is worth an epic love.
Loved the characters, the strong friendships and the banter that leads to tension that can be cut with a knife.
I enjoyed the book and getting to know the characters but would love a bigger plot in book 2.
Recommend to all dark romance book lovers
I love a good fantasy and plot but the pure love story was refreshing. It shows that even people with the darkest history has a lid or two to match their pot.
The FMC learns how to trust, the MMC's are total opposites and again even a person with a disability is worth an epic love.
Loved the characters, the strong friendships and the banter that leads to tension that can be cut with a knife.
I enjoyed the book and getting to know the characters but would love a bigger plot in book 2.
Recommend to all dark romance book lovers
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an ARC of The Frost That Burns.
This was an absolutely adorable novella filled with healing, tenderness, and unexpected warmth—even in the underworld.
The story balances sweetness and emotion beautifully, delivering a love story that feels genuine while navigating past trauma. The characters were thoughtfully developed, easy to connect with, and their dynamic added so much heart to the story. I also really enjoyed the premise of the festival—it was fun, creative, and perfectly suited to the novella format.
This was an absolutely adorable novella filled with healing, tenderness, and unexpected warmth—even in the underworld.
The story balances sweetness and emotion beautifully, delivering a love story that feels genuine while navigating past trauma. The characters were thoughtfully developed, easy to connect with, and their dynamic added so much heart to the story. I also really enjoyed the premise of the festival—it was fun, creative, and perfectly suited to the novella format.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Heartwarming & Frostingly adorable romantasy novella set in the Underworld! Who knew the Underworld is still full of life and emotions! I like how the characters clicked with one and the other even when their current roles that makes their connection forbidden. But they boldly rise to the challenge and claim their love against the world. Watching them grow through their background, conflict and emotional processing added depth making their world feel fuller, warmer, and complete by the end of the book.
Thank you for giving the opportunity to read this in advance.
Thank you for giving the opportunity to read this in advance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novella was such a fun read that had me giggling while also having some really sweet, tender and vulnerable moments sprinkled throughout it. I find a lot of books with fated mates have that instant love trope which can feel a bit cheesy, but I loved how the author navigated each characters warring feelings about the mate bond instead of having everybody just accept it the second it happens. The banter was hilarious, the tension was hot, and the spice was 😘🤌🏻. I can’t wait to read more about the characters. And that scene in the natural pools will forever live rent free in my brain. 🥵
January 31, 2026
I loved the world building in this, never expected so much from such a relatively short book but it was detailed without being overwhelming.
I love the 3 main characters; Keres with her lost family and traumatic childhood, Tristan who’s trauma mirrors Keres with his romantic heart trying to break through. and Ares who is a sweetheart wrapped up in a terrifying package. These three come together beautifully to start healing old wounds.
There are a few points where it felt a little rushed but that is to be expected in a short book with such character.
I love the 3 main characters; Keres with her lost family and traumatic childhood, Tristan who’s trauma mirrors Keres with his romantic heart trying to break through. and Ares who is a sweetheart wrapped up in a terrifying package. These three come together beautifully to start healing old wounds.
There are a few points where it felt a little rushed but that is to be expected in a short book with such character.
January 31, 2026
Read the trigger warnings before reading this one.
The smut and the banter in this book were perfect. The spicy scenes deserve to be read, make sure you are open minded and LGBTQ friendly. I loved the dynamic between the three main characters and also the difference in how the MFC treated both MMC. The friendships are strong and fun, the story flows easily and it leaves you wanting more.
The parts of disabilities and mental health were handled respectfully, tactfully, and to be honest some quotes felt like I was receiving a warm hug from the author.
I cannot wait to read more from this characters and see what happens with a few side characters. Definitely add it to your tbr.
The smut and the banter in this book were perfect. The spicy scenes deserve to be read, make sure you are open minded and LGBTQ friendly. I loved the dynamic between the three main characters and also the difference in how the MFC treated both MMC. The friendships are strong and fun, the story flows easily and it leaves you wanting more.
The parts of disabilities and mental health were handled respectfully, tactfully, and to be honest some quotes felt like I was receiving a warm hug from the author.
I cannot wait to read more from this characters and see what happens with a few side characters. Definitely add it to your tbr.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5/5 This was a fun novella! It reminded me of a Christmas special in a TV show, but themed around Valentine's Day. I overall enjoyed the characters, but I felt like the author over explained a lot of the exposition and character feelings. I prefer to learn as I go throughout a fantasy book, and a lot of it was easily understandable without needing long explanations. However, it was a fun Valentine's day read! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
January 22, 2026
This novella gave us EVERYTHING in 200 pages 🤗
Vampires, Demons and Shifters oh my
Fangs, horns, claws and wings don’t mind if I do
Fated mates, why choose and court intrigue!
Did o mention the spice? It has all kinds of spice while still having a fantastic plot.
I couldn’t have asked for more, but I will lol.
I can’t wait to see where these already beloved characters journey takes them.
Vampires, Demons and Shifters oh my
Fangs, horns, claws and wings don’t mind if I do
Fated mates, why choose and court intrigue!
Did o mention the spice? It has all kinds of spice while still having a fantastic plot.
I couldn’t have asked for more, but I will lol.
I can’t wait to see where these already beloved characters journey takes them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you like a spicy book, this one is for you. There isn’t a lot of plot but what there is, will leave you kicking your feet. There is some unexpected twists in the search for a mate that will have you raising your eyebrows and flying though the pages. It is definitely a quick read that will have you smiling. Happy Reading!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely loved this novella. So much in fact that I preordered the ebook and paperback haha. Carliann writes characters in a way that makes them so incredibly relatable. Their pain, their fears, their joys. I am blown away. And listen-vampires and demons? Assassins? Soul bonds? Please yes. And a why choose? It’s so good. I ate it up.
January 20, 2026
I really loved the representation of a disabled character in this book. I love that the characters in the book each had their own growth to be had and the enemies to lovers vibe. Even the side characters were great!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a well done dark romantasy… morally gray MMC and FMC. I finished this book deeply hoping for more to follow about these characters! It wrapped me up from the beginning and had me itching for that next free moment to read
January 21, 2026
This book was intense! It’s written beautifully with how the storyline goes. The plot twist’s were unexpectedly expected which helped shape the story line even more. I loved learning about each character’s background to how they became who they are.
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