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Haunted Darkness Of Our Ruin #1
Hearts Entangled In Winter's Fury
He is her enemy, the beginning of her ruin. She is his maddening obsession, and he is haunted by her. Together, they collide in a cosmic explosion, a blurred canvas of fury and passion.
Two souls are bound by a history of hatred that runs as deep as the scars it left behind. Amelia and Caiden, once childhood enemies, have spent years wrestling with the demons of their shared past. She, burdened by trauma that shadows her every step; he, a vessel of his father's rage, reflecting a bitterness that has festered far too long.
7 years after graduation, their paths cross once more during a wilderness retreat in Colorado, igniting an eruptive mix of resentment and unresolved tension. But when a sudden accident leaves them stranded in the unforgiving wild, survival demands an unlikely alliance. In a landscape where nature is as harsh as their memories, they must confront not only the physical challenges of the terrain but also the emotional turmoil that has haunted them for years. In doing so, they risk being ripped apart by the anger that consumes them.
Yet, amidst the heart-stopping perils of the wilderness, moments of vulnerability begin to unravel the walls they’ve built. Through heated confrontations and unexpected revelations, they discover an unsettling truth: love and hatred are often two sides of the same coin.
This is a slow burn dark romance, childhood enemies to lovers. BOOK 1 in trilogy. It is psychological, emotional, trauma-heavy, explicit mature scenes and language, angsty, aching, and gut-wrenchingly heartbreaking. Themes of rage, dark obsession, hate, parental addiction, grief, survival, trauma. HEAVY inner conflict as well as occasional explicit spice.
This series portrays the ugly pain of being human. How we make mistakes, break down, make the wrong choice, give into things like destruction, anger, revenge, darkness, desire, self-sabotage, ache.
It is enemies to friends to lovers. But, it is emotionally raw, dark, painful, angsty, tense, psychological and will tug and tear at your heart. Read with caution. It portrays how we can become conditioned to feel a certain way, how it is rooted in our bones from childhood, and how it is a long painful struggle to pull ourselves out of that conditioned state, to come back to our core self.
For Amelia and Caiden, it is a slow burn process. They must learn to heal from deep rooted wounds and conditioned mindsets learned from their parents in order for them to overcome their long standing hatred for each other. They will either let their hatred and anger crumble into ashes, or it will tear them apart. Their slow burn progress will span out over three books.
Their hatred is real, it’s raw, it’s powerful and all-consuming.
Their eventual passion for each other is on the same level. Old hatred and new passion will clash, they must decide which one will win.
This book is the first in a trilogy.
Two souls are bound by a history of hatred that runs as deep as the scars it left behind. Amelia and Caiden, once childhood enemies, have spent years wrestling with the demons of their shared past. She, burdened by trauma that shadows her every step; he, a vessel of his father's rage, reflecting a bitterness that has festered far too long.
7 years after graduation, their paths cross once more during a wilderness retreat in Colorado, igniting an eruptive mix of resentment and unresolved tension. But when a sudden accident leaves them stranded in the unforgiving wild, survival demands an unlikely alliance. In a landscape where nature is as harsh as their memories, they must confront not only the physical challenges of the terrain but also the emotional turmoil that has haunted them for years. In doing so, they risk being ripped apart by the anger that consumes them.
Yet, amidst the heart-stopping perils of the wilderness, moments of vulnerability begin to unravel the walls they’ve built. Through heated confrontations and unexpected revelations, they discover an unsettling truth: love and hatred are often two sides of the same coin.
This is a slow burn dark romance, childhood enemies to lovers. BOOK 1 in trilogy. It is psychological, emotional, trauma-heavy, explicit mature scenes and language, angsty, aching, and gut-wrenchingly heartbreaking. Themes of rage, dark obsession, hate, parental addiction, grief, survival, trauma. HEAVY inner conflict as well as occasional explicit spice.
This series portrays the ugly pain of being human. How we make mistakes, break down, make the wrong choice, give into things like destruction, anger, revenge, darkness, desire, self-sabotage, ache.
It is enemies to friends to lovers. But, it is emotionally raw, dark, painful, angsty, tense, psychological and will tug and tear at your heart. Read with caution. It portrays how we can become conditioned to feel a certain way, how it is rooted in our bones from childhood, and how it is a long painful struggle to pull ourselves out of that conditioned state, to come back to our core self.
For Amelia and Caiden, it is a slow burn process. They must learn to heal from deep rooted wounds and conditioned mindsets learned from their parents in order for them to overcome their long standing hatred for each other. They will either let their hatred and anger crumble into ashes, or it will tear them apart. Their slow burn progress will span out over three books.
Their hatred is real, it’s raw, it’s powerful and all-consuming.
Their eventual passion for each other is on the same level. Old hatred and new passion will clash, they must decide which one will win.
This book is the first in a trilogy.
- GenresDark RomanceDark
638 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2025
About the author
Donna Kessler
9 books14 followersDonna Kessler is a self taught writer residing in North Carolina. She has been a lifelong lover of reading, writing and poetry. She began reading and writing when she was a young child as a way to express herself and escape from reality. She enjoys writing about dark, tragic and traumatic themes with emotional and psychological depth. Her favorite genres to read and write are contemporary dark romance with aspects of horror or mystery and poetry. She has two dogs and also enjoys painting, psychology, cleaning, caring for animals. Her main hope is that readers will find her books and truly connect with the emotional depth, character and the relationships in books.
I am author of HEARTS ENTANGLED IN WINTER'S FURY.
(NEW REVIEWERS: EDITION PUBLISHED IN 2025 IS NO LONGER RELEVANT. PLEASE REVIEW NEW EDITION BEING PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 16TH 2026)
I am author of HEARTS ENTANGLED IN WINTER'S FURY.
(NEW REVIEWERS: EDITION PUBLISHED IN 2025 IS NO LONGER RELEVANT. PLEASE REVIEW NEW EDITION BEING PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 16TH 2026)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 7, 2026
Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury – Review
Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury is a deeply emotional and gripping enemies-to-lovers romance that blends raw vulnerability with intense passion and survival drama. The story follows Amelia and Caiden, whose shared past is steeped in pain, resentment, and unresolved tension. Years after graduation, a chance reunion at a wilderness retreat in Colorado reignites old wounds—and forces them into an impossible situation when they’re left stranded in unforgiving terrain together. 
What truly sets this book apart is the way it explores the thin line between hatred and love. Kessler doesn’t shy away from the emotional scars that haunt both characters; instead, she uses the brutal landscape as a mirror for their internal struggles. Amelia’s trauma and Caiden’s bitterness are balanced with moments of vulnerability that feel honest and powerful. 
As they battle the elements and their own demons, the chemistry between them shifts from antagonistic to achingly real. The pacing blends high-stakes danger with quiet, tender moments that allow their connection to deepen organically. This duality—fire and frost, passion and pain—makes the story feel cinematic and emotionally resonant. 
Filled with lyrical prose and heart-tugging character growth, Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury is a compelling redemption romance that proves sometimes the fiercest loves come from the deepest wounds.
Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury is a deeply emotional and gripping enemies-to-lovers romance that blends raw vulnerability with intense passion and survival drama. The story follows Amelia and Caiden, whose shared past is steeped in pain, resentment, and unresolved tension. Years after graduation, a chance reunion at a wilderness retreat in Colorado reignites old wounds—and forces them into an impossible situation when they’re left stranded in unforgiving terrain together. 
What truly sets this book apart is the way it explores the thin line between hatred and love. Kessler doesn’t shy away from the emotional scars that haunt both characters; instead, she uses the brutal landscape as a mirror for their internal struggles. Amelia’s trauma and Caiden’s bitterness are balanced with moments of vulnerability that feel honest and powerful. 
As they battle the elements and their own demons, the chemistry between them shifts from antagonistic to achingly real. The pacing blends high-stakes danger with quiet, tender moments that allow their connection to deepen organically. This duality—fire and frost, passion and pain—makes the story feel cinematic and emotionally resonant. 
Filled with lyrical prose and heart-tugging character growth, Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury is a compelling redemption romance that proves sometimes the fiercest loves come from the deepest wounds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book follows the emotional and toxic relationship between Amelia and Caiden. This heart wrenching story of abuse and neglect is so well constructed and not overdone. There are a lot of twists and turns in this story that I did not see coming. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series
January 12, 2026
Wow. This book wrecked me in the best ways. It is very dark so please check the trigger warnings! To be completely honest, I didn’t think this book was for me at first. Every time I walked away from it, I found myself thinking of the characters and replaying what I had read. I was hooked. This is so much deeper than “dark romance.” I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with more complex characters. In part 1, I loathed Caiden. I couldn’t understand how he could be redeemed in any capacity. Then came part 2 and I cried over this fictional man and the horrors that his dad unleashed on him. It made perfect sense. I had a love hate relationship with both characters in part 3 but they were exactly what the other needed to keep them sane during the traumatic events. I never saw the kidnapping coming! That was a crazy twist. After reading nonstop smut with little plot (which I also love) it’s refreshing to read something with so much depth. I love this book and cannot wait for book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2026
im going to start off by saying this book put me through the ringer with all the emotions I went through while reading.
if you're looking for a book that will break you, then definitely read this. its so well written that I felt all the emotions and I wanted to reach through the book and get revenge for the main characters.
if you're looking for a book that will break you, then definitely read this. its so well written that I felt all the emotions and I wanted to reach through the book and get revenge for the main characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is one of the most emotional and complex dark romances I have read (other than the edge of darkness trilogy). I couldn’t stop reading, I was completely absorbed into Caiden and Amelia’s story and their emotions. Their relationship is truly heartbreaking and darkly tragic. Caiden grows up with an alcoholic abusive father and learns to be filled with violence, hatred and cruelty from a young age. Because of a sinful secret between their families, it is literally beaten into him that Amelia is to be hated. I did not like Caiden in part 1 mainly due to how cruel he could be, but by part 2 I knew I found my new fictional book boyfriend. Caiden wants to be good and loved but all he knows is violence, so he is cruel to the one girl who he once held affection for. And Amelia’s life is so heartbreaking too. I cried for them. She grows up with a drug addict mother and no father since he abandoned them. She endures abuse from her mother, she feels isolated and numb and angry, and endures Caiden's cruelty. But there’s also some sort of connection between them. A sort of hunger that’s overruled by hate and rage. I could see that in the few minor spicy scenes in part 1. They hate each other so much to where it mimics the passion, but it’s a raging passion.
It got even better by part 3. Amelia and Caiden are stranded in the wilderness together in the present time. I am glad the author included their backstory in senior year in part 1, and caidens backstory chapters in part 2 because their relationship and hatred made more sense once I got to part 3.
I was not disappointed with the tension. There was so much tension, bickering, resentment, hatred etc. between them. The author didn’t lie when she said it was slow burn.
I loveeee a good enemies to lovers where they don’t become lovers right away. Amelia and Caiden made sure their hatred was clear. But those moments in the wilderness where Caiden protects Amelia?? My heart! 😫😫
Caiden, despite his conditioned hatred, knows he needs to keep her alive and help her even though he himself is exhausted and terrified. They come together in a beautiful slow burn way. There’s lack of trust at first and Amelia really fights Caiden on everything he says and does. But they slowly start realizing that they need each other, and that shift felt so earned. It is not instant forgiveness, not insta-love, not even close. It is messy, suspicious, and sometimes they are still saying the cruelest things while their actions start telling the truth first. The survival aspect had me stressed. The cold, the hunger, the fear, the way exhaustion strips them down to their rawest selves. And watching Caiden fight his own nature, fight what he was taught, fight that ugly voice in his head that says she is the enemy, just to keep her breathing? That hit me right in the chest. Amelia is not a weak FMC either. She is furious, stubborn, and traumatized in a way that makes her sharp around the edges, and I loved that she doesn’t just melt because he has a protective moment. She makes him prove it.
The author did such a good job with the “fine line between hate and hunger” theme, because you can feel how they confuse it, fear it, crave it, and resent it all at once. It is brilliantly dark because it does not sugarcoat how trauma warps people, how conditioning sinks into your bones, and how love does not magically undo years of damage. The pacing worked for me because every part added something that mattered. Part 1 shows the breaking point, part 2 makes you understand the monster that was made, and part 3 is where everything collides and you finally see the connection under all that ruin.
I also really appreciated that this book is dark because dark things happen, not because it is trying to be edgy for shock value. It is heavy and emotional and there are scenes that are hard to read, so absolutely check trigger warnings if you need to, but if you can handle dark romance with real pain behind it, this one delivers. By the end, I was fully wrecked in the best way. I had that feeling like I had lived inside their misery and their tiny moments of softness felt like oxygen. Five stars, no question. Caiden and Amelia are the kind of couple that hurts to read about because you want to reach through the pages and save them, but you also cannot look away. I am obsessed and I need the next book immediately. Best dark romance ever. The characters are so incredibly complex everything is perfectly in depth. Her prose is insanely good too. Dark, vivid and soo moving. Like poetry and fiction blended together.
It got even better by part 3. Amelia and Caiden are stranded in the wilderness together in the present time. I am glad the author included their backstory in senior year in part 1, and caidens backstory chapters in part 2 because their relationship and hatred made more sense once I got to part 3.
I was not disappointed with the tension. There was so much tension, bickering, resentment, hatred etc. between them. The author didn’t lie when she said it was slow burn.
I loveeee a good enemies to lovers where they don’t become lovers right away. Amelia and Caiden made sure their hatred was clear. But those moments in the wilderness where Caiden protects Amelia?? My heart! 😫😫
Caiden, despite his conditioned hatred, knows he needs to keep her alive and help her even though he himself is exhausted and terrified. They come together in a beautiful slow burn way. There’s lack of trust at first and Amelia really fights Caiden on everything he says and does. But they slowly start realizing that they need each other, and that shift felt so earned. It is not instant forgiveness, not insta-love, not even close. It is messy, suspicious, and sometimes they are still saying the cruelest things while their actions start telling the truth first. The survival aspect had me stressed. The cold, the hunger, the fear, the way exhaustion strips them down to their rawest selves. And watching Caiden fight his own nature, fight what he was taught, fight that ugly voice in his head that says she is the enemy, just to keep her breathing? That hit me right in the chest. Amelia is not a weak FMC either. She is furious, stubborn, and traumatized in a way that makes her sharp around the edges, and I loved that she doesn’t just melt because he has a protective moment. She makes him prove it.
The author did such a good job with the “fine line between hate and hunger” theme, because you can feel how they confuse it, fear it, crave it, and resent it all at once. It is brilliantly dark because it does not sugarcoat how trauma warps people, how conditioning sinks into your bones, and how love does not magically undo years of damage. The pacing worked for me because every part added something that mattered. Part 1 shows the breaking point, part 2 makes you understand the monster that was made, and part 3 is where everything collides and you finally see the connection under all that ruin.
I also really appreciated that this book is dark because dark things happen, not because it is trying to be edgy for shock value. It is heavy and emotional and there are scenes that are hard to read, so absolutely check trigger warnings if you need to, but if you can handle dark romance with real pain behind it, this one delivers. By the end, I was fully wrecked in the best way. I had that feeling like I had lived inside their misery and their tiny moments of softness felt like oxygen. Five stars, no question. Caiden and Amelia are the kind of couple that hurts to read about because you want to reach through the pages and save them, but you also cannot look away. I am obsessed and I need the next book immediately. Best dark romance ever. The characters are so incredibly complex everything is perfectly in depth. Her prose is insanely good too. Dark, vivid and soo moving. Like poetry and fiction blended together.
May 25, 2026
I just finished this book today and I loved it! I made a goodreads account solely to review this book and share my thoughts with the world. This was an incredibly well-written dark romance. The hate and banter between Amelia and Caiden was so gripping and executed in a way that felt authentic, dark, and emotional. She wrote the characters so well, and I love how much chemistry and history there was between the two of them. The hate? The anger? The hunger? The obsession? Amazing! This was a trueee enemies to lovers, their hatred going back all the way to childhood. I finished the book and felt completely emotionally wrecked. The things that Amelia and Caiden go through are heartbreakingly dark and traumatic. They get stranded in the Colorado wilderness with loads of hate and unresolved anger and trauma between them. Their past isn't pretty too. Both having parents who are abusive and addicted to substances. Their hate isn't just silly banter, there's so much hateful depth in their back and forth dialogue. They don't become lovers in this book either. They stay hateful towards each other for so long unlike most books. Things really heat up when they are taken captive by a psychopath deep in the wilderness. They're held in a basement together and that's when most of their breakthroughs happen with each other. Watching Caiden slowly go from truly hating her and being cruel, to keeping her alive, keeping her breathing, to promising himself that he will do everything he can to make sure she makes it out in one piece broke me. His pov in the basement arc was so emotionally devastating but also beautifully written in how he went from hating her to slowly giving into his buried hunger and yearning for her.
I was captivated by how the author wrote this book. Weaving their past and present povs together and making me feel so connected to the both of them and their history and emotions between each other, and rooting for them too. Caiden had his cruel moments, but there's so much more to his story and the context of his cruelty. I'm excited for book 2! I personally love how much depth she put into this, finally a true contemporary enemies to lovers :D
I was captivated by how the author wrote this book. Weaving their past and present povs together and making me feel so connected to the both of them and their history and emotions between each other, and rooting for them too. Caiden had his cruel moments, but there's so much more to his story and the context of his cruelty. I'm excited for book 2! I personally love how much depth she put into this, finally a true contemporary enemies to lovers :D
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is everything you wouldn’t expect in a good way.
The way Donna captured the hate that you never see in a book, or the chemistry that you think is going to make this story turn but hits you in the gut with the hatred that you feel during scenes. Donna captures emotions within her writing that I went through and couldn’t put into words myself. She had me reflecting my trauma as a teen.
Amelia is innocent and yet powerful, standing up for herself and her family. Even though her mother is no good and her sister is a dropout. The way she had only one person she could lean on but also that person was friends with her enemy from childhood. I saw myself in Amelia due to her relationship with her mother of being told I was one thing even if not true, I felt hate for her moms character and I saw myself living through her eyes (Which is a first for me)
Caiden was conditioned to hurt this poor girl due to his own damn father’s life. Caiden just as innocent, endured hatred and abuse from his father from fucking up his whole and own life with someone close to Amelia. Caiden having to hurt this poor girl day after day and the going home to live his own nightmare to make his father happy.
You see them battle through their own journeys together and separate, you want to root for them when they have their moments together but then you want to scream for Amelia to get away but then you get captured into their beautiful realization that their chemistry together is burning but so is their lives around them.
Again, this story is not an easy read… be aware of hateful, tragic and hard moments that will make you question this story and question it after you are finished with it days later, but that’s what makes it such a good read.
(My words exactly to this beautiful writer)
** “Oh I’m just speechless, what I’m thinking and what I want to write is all over but that’s what made me love this book!!”**
The way Donna captured the hate that you never see in a book, or the chemistry that you think is going to make this story turn but hits you in the gut with the hatred that you feel during scenes. Donna captures emotions within her writing that I went through and couldn’t put into words myself. She had me reflecting my trauma as a teen.
Amelia is innocent and yet powerful, standing up for herself and her family. Even though her mother is no good and her sister is a dropout. The way she had only one person she could lean on but also that person was friends with her enemy from childhood. I saw myself in Amelia due to her relationship with her mother of being told I was one thing even if not true, I felt hate for her moms character and I saw myself living through her eyes (Which is a first for me)
Caiden was conditioned to hurt this poor girl due to his own damn father’s life. Caiden just as innocent, endured hatred and abuse from his father from fucking up his whole and own life with someone close to Amelia. Caiden having to hurt this poor girl day after day and the going home to live his own nightmare to make his father happy.
You see them battle through their own journeys together and separate, you want to root for them when they have their moments together but then you want to scream for Amelia to get away but then you get captured into their beautiful realization that their chemistry together is burning but so is their lives around them.
Again, this story is not an easy read… be aware of hateful, tragic and hard moments that will make you question this story and question it after you are finished with it days later, but that’s what makes it such a good read.
(My words exactly to this beautiful writer)
** “Oh I’m just speechless, what I’m thinking and what I want to write is all over but that’s what made me love this book!!”**
April 11, 2026
This was a phenomenal dark romance. I usually have low expectations for contemporary enemies to lovers, but Donna wrote this book to be a true childhood enemies to lovers. I loved how we got a peek into their history. How they hated each other, the things that pushed them to hate each other and there was so much depth to the storyline. Caiden was taught to hate her through abusive conditioning and we see a glimpse of that through his past pov chapters which really helped to explain his behavior and connect with him more emotionally. Then in Amelia’s flashbacks we see her “breaking point” in senior year which ties everything in present together. They become stranded in the wilderness together 7 years later and it’s not just silly banter. There’s true and angry tension, hateful remarks and feelings, deep-rooted trauma/grief/rage. She wove their relationship so well. I personally love a good long book so I was thrilled to find an enemies to lovers where they don’t become lovers right away, and there’s actually chemistry and history rather than dry dynamics.
This is very dark and toxic. There’s heavy themes and it gets even darker when they are both kidnapped by a psychotic killer in the wilderness and are both tortured. It was a bittersweet experience seeing the change happen from them going from hating each other to becoming vulnerable and needing each other, because they both are all they have in the darkness. It’s not a quick healing or quick forgiveness, there’s so much push and pull between them which made it even more realistic.
If you want an emotional in depth dark romance with true enemies to lovers going back into childhood, I recommend Donna’s book! If you’re somebody who has experienced parental abuse and addiction, this would especially be an emotional and impactful read. Donna conveyed the trauma of that so well and its long term effects of Amelia and Caiden individually and with each other.
This is very dark and toxic. There’s heavy themes and it gets even darker when they are both kidnapped by a psychotic killer in the wilderness and are both tortured. It was a bittersweet experience seeing the change happen from them going from hating each other to becoming vulnerable and needing each other, because they both are all they have in the darkness. It’s not a quick healing or quick forgiveness, there’s so much push and pull between them which made it even more realistic.
If you want an emotional in depth dark romance with true enemies to lovers going back into childhood, I recommend Donna’s book! If you’re somebody who has experienced parental abuse and addiction, this would especially be an emotional and impactful read. Donna conveyed the trauma of that so well and its long term effects of Amelia and Caiden individually and with each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, thank you to the Author, Donna Kessler, for giving me the opportunity to ARC read her book!
This book was one that I equally couldn't put down, but when I did, I wanted to pick it right back up. Its full of depression, grief, childhood trauma and more. It really shows what some kids go through in their lives, and that not everyone's life is as grand as it looks from the outside. Even the people with the kindest smiles, have their breaking point, and that's what we saw with our FMC Amelia.
SPOILERS INCOMING:
I cannot wait for book two and to see where these two go. Thank you again to the author!
This book was one that I equally couldn't put down, but when I did, I wanted to pick it right back up. Its full of depression, grief, childhood trauma and more. It really shows what some kids go through in their lives, and that not everyone's life is as grand as it looks from the outside. Even the people with the kindest smiles, have their breaking point, and that's what we saw with our FMC Amelia.
SPOILERS INCOMING:
I cannot wait for book two and to see where these two go. Thank you again to the author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review – Unbiased Opinion
I received an eARC of Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury by Donna Kessler, and this review reflects my honest and unbiased thoughts.
This book is undeniably intense. It tackles a wide range of heavy and potentially triggering themes, including addiction, abuse, bullying, violence, and trauma. Readers should absolutely check trigger warnings before diving in, as the emotional weight is significant and unrelenting. The story follows two characters whose shared history is rooted in pain, resentment, and deeply flawed home lives, and much of the book explores how unresolved trauma shapes who we become.
For me, the pacing and structure were challenging. At 79 chapters, the book felt overly long and often disjointed, almost as if several separate stories were woven together into one. There were moments that felt powerful in isolation, but as a whole, the narrative struggled to feel cohesive. Additionally, the prose leaned very heavily into description, sometimes to the point where it felt forced rather than natural, which pulled me out of the story more than once.
Ultimately, this book was simply too much for me. While I can see how it may resonate with readers who enjoy very dark, emotionally heavy stories with complex character dynamics, it wasn’t a book I personally connected with. If I were someone who DNF’d books easily, this likely would have been one I set aside. That said, others may appreciate the rawness and ambition of the story, even if it didn’t work for me.
I received an eARC of Hearts Entangled in Winter’s Fury by Donna Kessler, and this review reflects my honest and unbiased thoughts.
This book is undeniably intense. It tackles a wide range of heavy and potentially triggering themes, including addiction, abuse, bullying, violence, and trauma. Readers should absolutely check trigger warnings before diving in, as the emotional weight is significant and unrelenting. The story follows two characters whose shared history is rooted in pain, resentment, and deeply flawed home lives, and much of the book explores how unresolved trauma shapes who we become.
For me, the pacing and structure were challenging. At 79 chapters, the book felt overly long and often disjointed, almost as if several separate stories were woven together into one. There were moments that felt powerful in isolation, but as a whole, the narrative struggled to feel cohesive. Additionally, the prose leaned very heavily into description, sometimes to the point where it felt forced rather than natural, which pulled me out of the story more than once.
Ultimately, this book was simply too much for me. While I can see how it may resonate with readers who enjoy very dark, emotionally heavy stories with complex character dynamics, it wasn’t a book I personally connected with. If I were someone who DNF’d books easily, this likely would have been one I set aside. That said, others may appreciate the rawness and ambition of the story, even if it didn’t work for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Let me start by saying that this book was a very emotional read for me! I didn’t just LOVE it, it also tore my heart into pieces! I felt so much pain and sadness for Amelia and Caiden. I felt like I could actually feel their pain through their story. I had times where I would need to put it down before picking it back up. That’s how emotional this was for me. Their abuse, trauma, and pain felt very real to me. You feel so much emotion towards Amelia and Caiden’s parents. Anger, disgust, hate. But then you also feel that way towards both of them. In the way they treat each other, and their internal words about the other. This ends up being a trauma bond like no other!
For me, Donna is an excellent author! The way she describes thoughts and feelings, and environments is incredible! So much detail! I could actually see everything in my mind and create it. I felt like I was in the story with Amelia and Caiden.
I found myself holding my breath waiting in anticipation for what was to come next. So much anguish and hope. These characters in this book will stick with me for a long time. Their story will continue to stay with me. If you love a slow burn, then this is for you! I will wait with so little patience for their story to continue. I can’t wait! Pick this one up, you’re in for a wild emotional ride!!!!
I will note something of importance! PLEASE check your trigger warnings before reading! It Your mental health is of the utmost importance! This story is not for everyone. It is dark, cruel, raw, and full of pain and trauma. Proceed with caution.
For me, Donna is an excellent author! The way she describes thoughts and feelings, and environments is incredible! So much detail! I could actually see everything in my mind and create it. I felt like I was in the story with Amelia and Caiden.
I found myself holding my breath waiting in anticipation for what was to come next. So much anguish and hope. These characters in this book will stick with me for a long time. Their story will continue to stay with me. If you love a slow burn, then this is for you! I will wait with so little patience for their story to continue. I can’t wait! Pick this one up, you’re in for a wild emotional ride!!!!
I will note something of importance! PLEASE check your trigger warnings before reading! It Your mental health is of the utmost importance! This story is not for everyone. It is dark, cruel, raw, and full of pain and trauma. Proceed with caution.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is raw, real, and completely heart-wrenching. I couldn’t put it down. Out of all the books I’ve read, this one made me feel the most. It pulled at every heartstring and refused to let go.
If you love dark romance that breaks you before slowly putting you back together, this series will be your next obsession.
The story is drenched in grief, childhood trauma, guilt, and survival. It’s packed with revenge and the kind of pain that sits heavy in your chest long after you close the book. Every emotion feels sharp and intentional.
Amelia and Caiden’s journey—from enemies ➝ reluctant allies ➝ lovers—is anything but easy. This is a true slow burn built on years of resentment, damage, and wounds that run deep. Their tension is constant, layered with history and hurt. They have to decide whether they’ll keep destroying each other or let that fire turn into something unforgettable.
One thing that did frustrate me slightly was Amelia’s reaction when they were first stranded in the forest. I completely understand not wanting to be stuck with the person who made your childhood miserable—but when that same person saves your life multiple times, a simple thank you wouldn’t have hurt. That said, the irritation didn’t take away from how gripping the story was.
This book is angsty, brutal, and beautifully human. It hurts in all the right ways—and the emotional payoff makes every bit of it worth it.
If you love dark romance that breaks you before slowly putting you back together, this series will be your next obsession.
The story is drenched in grief, childhood trauma, guilt, and survival. It’s packed with revenge and the kind of pain that sits heavy in your chest long after you close the book. Every emotion feels sharp and intentional.
Amelia and Caiden’s journey—from enemies ➝ reluctant allies ➝ lovers—is anything but easy. This is a true slow burn built on years of resentment, damage, and wounds that run deep. Their tension is constant, layered with history and hurt. They have to decide whether they’ll keep destroying each other or let that fire turn into something unforgettable.
One thing that did frustrate me slightly was Amelia’s reaction when they were first stranded in the forest. I completely understand not wanting to be stuck with the person who made your childhood miserable—but when that same person saves your life multiple times, a simple thank you wouldn’t have hurt. That said, the irritation didn’t take away from how gripping the story was.
This book is angsty, brutal, and beautifully human. It hurts in all the right ways—and the emotional payoff makes every bit of it worth it.
April 28, 2026
6 STAR READ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is a perfect true enemies to lovers dark romance. This story is dark, toxic and extremely psychological. It follows Amelia and Caiden who were both conditioned to hate each other from a young age. Their hate is so intense, and their backstories are extremely traumatic and tragic. They go through so much together when they get stranded in the wild in the middle of nowhere years later. A psycho in the woods takes them and keeps them captive in his basement. Through it all, Donna never manages to lose the momentum from hate and their growing desire for each other, unraveling their feelings in a slow but steady and tense way. Donna wrote this so beautifully, the prose pulled me in quick and allowed me to connect to Amelia and Caiden deeply. Their hatred and anger stayed with them throughout the book, never falling into love too quick. Having some backstory really helped for me to understand their history, hatred and chemistry. It was just enough to satisfy me and turn this into a beautifully woven childhood enemies storyline with depth. I cannot wait for book 2 to see how they resolve their issues with each other so they can get together
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is real, raw, and will pull at your heart strings. I couldn’t put it down!! I’ve read a lot of books but this one made me feel the most.
The one thing I will say that did irritate me was Amelia whining when they first ended up stranded in the forest. I can understand not wanting to be lost in the woods with the person who made your life h*** as a child but when that person quite literally saves your life on multiple occasions, you can at least utter a thank you.
My favorite part would have to be Caiden. Yes you could call him an a**hole for tormenting Amelia but he does get a slight reprieve because his father instilled the hatred in him from the age of 4. His yearning for Amelia even when he believes that he doesn’t deserve her, truly heart wrenching. But regardless of the hatred and the loathing, he makes a promise to himself that even if he doesn’t survive the kidnapper, Amelia will.
Overall this book is a masterpiece and I will be eagerly and impatiently waiting for the second book!!
The one thing I will say that did irritate me was Amelia whining when they first ended up stranded in the forest. I can understand not wanting to be lost in the woods with the person who made your life h*** as a child but when that person quite literally saves your life on multiple occasions, you can at least utter a thank you.
My favorite part would have to be Caiden. Yes you could call him an a**hole for tormenting Amelia but he does get a slight reprieve because his father instilled the hatred in him from the age of 4. His yearning for Amelia even when he believes that he doesn’t deserve her, truly heart wrenching. But regardless of the hatred and the loathing, he makes a promise to himself that even if he doesn’t survive the kidnapper, Amelia will.
Overall this book is a masterpiece and I will be eagerly and impatiently waiting for the second book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2026
Wow! If I could give this 10 stars I would.
What a chilling, traumatic, terrifying, and emotional story.
Story begins in high school and goes back and forth to younger versions with dual POV’s. As well as present day.
Caiden and Amelia both dealing with difficulties in their lives. Growing up in the same town and hating each other, mostly on Caiden’s side for reasons he couldn’t disclose.
Amelia has so much trauma in her life it was really moving seeing how she navigated through it all.
After years of not seeing each other and moved on from their rotten existence, they are brought back together on wilderness trip not realizing they would see each other again.
What they went through was unbelievably horrific most was left to the imagination, but horrible nonetheless. I loved how the author wrote. Her words were poetry and made you feel every thing this couple went through.
It does leave on a bit of a cliffhanger, but the second book is in its way.
Please note this has MAJOR triggers so look into before reading.
Recommend 1000%
What a chilling, traumatic, terrifying, and emotional story.
Story begins in high school and goes back and forth to younger versions with dual POV’s. As well as present day.
Caiden and Amelia both dealing with difficulties in their lives. Growing up in the same town and hating each other, mostly on Caiden’s side for reasons he couldn’t disclose.
Amelia has so much trauma in her life it was really moving seeing how she navigated through it all.
After years of not seeing each other and moved on from their rotten existence, they are brought back together on wilderness trip not realizing they would see each other again.
What they went through was unbelievably horrific most was left to the imagination, but horrible nonetheless. I loved how the author wrote. Her words were poetry and made you feel every thing this couple went through.
It does leave on a bit of a cliffhanger, but the second book is in its way.
Please note this has MAJOR triggers so look into before reading.
Recommend 1000%
January 18, 2026
It took me so much longer than I wanted to finish this book, but sadly life and adult responsibilities, do not always play in favor of my most favorite pastime. Hearts Entangled in Winters Fury was full of hatred and bitterness from the very beginning, it kept you on edge, wanting to know what was happening next. It made me absolutely hate Caiden in the beginning, but once you get to his POV, you realize that you completely misjudged him! This book broke me in the best way possible, and I can’t wait to see where Caiden and Amelia’s story goes in the next book, and I really hope these characters get the redemption that they both deserve. They have endured and struggled with so much, and with Donna’s writing style, you feel every little bit of pain, fear, sadness, and struggle that these characters feel as well! So if you want a book that that’s going to fully destroy you, I 100% recommend this book!
February 18, 2026
The book is written extremely well. I could feel the emotions of the characters as I was reading. The hatred between Amelia and Caiden was palpable. The author expressed the angst and emotions in a way that I was sucked into the story and read about 300 pages in one evening. Even while Amelia hated Caiden, I could tell that there was a powerful pull between them. There truly is a thin line between love and hate.
The story is dark. Please pay attention to the trigger warnings.
I felt for both characters after getting into their heads. It was really difficult to read about Caiden’s childhood and his father’s treatment (heed the trigger warnings).
I questioned some of Amelia’s actions when it came to Caiden’s friend, but they did make sense in the context of what had happened with her sister.
Overall, the book kept attention and I’d be looking forward to reading the next installment.
I was given an Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest review.
The story is dark. Please pay attention to the trigger warnings.
I felt for both characters after getting into their heads. It was really difficult to read about Caiden’s childhood and his father’s treatment (heed the trigger warnings).
I questioned some of Amelia’s actions when it came to Caiden’s friend, but they did make sense in the context of what had happened with her sister.
Overall, the book kept attention and I’d be looking forward to reading the next installment.
I was given an Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2026
This book took me a while to finish. To be honest, I struggled a bit because I do not read slow burns at all and this was a long slow burn. However, the hate between the characters was by far the most intense part for me. It ran so deep that neither one could get past it. A good portion of the book was them walking in the wilderness and the hateful back and forth between the two. They did get in a very bad situation for a while that was hard to read at times but Donna Kessler wrote it in a way that you knew what was going on without it being spelled out. However, check those triggers because even as someone with trauma but no triggers, I had to step away sometimes. Though I struggled to continue (because of the slow burn and it being such a big book) I eventually got that hook I needed and I am looking forward to what happens in the second book. I definitely recommend this series if you like the slow burn, enemies, angsty books that break your heart multiple times.
February 16, 2026
📚📚ARC REVIEW 📚📚
Holy meatballs! This book took me on a journey. I cannot stress enough to check your trigger warnings on this one. It is a true enemies-to-lovers story; however, they do not become lovers in the first book. The tension this book built was absolutely insane. Honestly, the writing style might not be for everyone, but I absolutely ate it up.
This is easily a 5 star read for me. I often see the description “enemies to lovers” and end up disappointed, but this book truly captivated me with its raw emotion and character development…especially between the FMC and MMC. They have an intense history and have genuinely been conditioned to hate each other in the worst ways. But love and hate are a fine line, and it’s clear that once some pressure is applied, it becomes hard for them to distinguish between the two, no matter how much they deny it.
Again CHECK THE TRIGGERS…and be aware the author has a pretty unique writing style and the book is long but I honestly feel like it gives the details and backstory I crave when it comes to a good series ❤️
The ending absolutely killed me, though….it felt so unresolved. I need book two ASAP 😭
Holy meatballs! This book took me on a journey. I cannot stress enough to check your trigger warnings on this one. It is a true enemies-to-lovers story; however, they do not become lovers in the first book. The tension this book built was absolutely insane. Honestly, the writing style might not be for everyone, but I absolutely ate it up.
This is easily a 5 star read for me. I often see the description “enemies to lovers” and end up disappointed, but this book truly captivated me with its raw emotion and character development…especially between the FMC and MMC. They have an intense history and have genuinely been conditioned to hate each other in the worst ways. But love and hate are a fine line, and it’s clear that once some pressure is applied, it becomes hard for them to distinguish between the two, no matter how much they deny it.
Again CHECK THE TRIGGERS…and be aware the author has a pretty unique writing style and the book is long but I honestly feel like it gives the details and backstory I crave when it comes to a good series ❤️
The ending absolutely killed me, though….it felt so unresolved. I need book two ASAP 😭
February 2, 2026
ARC review!! I was given the opportunity to read this and I am soooo glad I did. Part 1 had me thinking Caiden was awful for all of the things he was putting Amelia through. Part 2 once I got to Caiden’s POV…. My heart shattered. The things he had to endure as a child at the hands of a man who was supposed to protect him. In his mind treating her terribly and hating her was his salvation, his only hope of survival. Part 3 what happened in this part shocked me!!! I was not expecting the plot twist. I thought they would be found fairly quickly and then out of nowhere they are locked in a basement with a twisted serial killer. I absolutely cannot wait to see how their stories unfold in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a good book! However, definitely read tour trigger warnings. With that being said: you will cry, laugh, and be mad! This book is a slow burn but it is definitely worth it. The author had so much details in the book! It was like I was right there with Caiden and Amelia. Between them being in high school together to not seeing each other for 7 years. It was like fate brought them together for a trip with her best friends soon to be husband- because her high school bully is coming with them. They spend some quality time together but the still do not know want to fall for each other... yet.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn’t put this down! If you’re into dark romance that breaks you before it mends you, this series is your next obsession.
It’s drenched in grief and childhood trauma. Packed with revenge, survival, and the kind of pain that sits heavy in your chest.
Amelia and Caiden are enemies ➝ friends ➝ lovers, but nothing about their journey is easy. This is a true slow burn, built on years of hatred, damage, and wounds that run deep. They’ll have to decide if they keep destroying each other or let that fire become something unforgettable.
Raw. Angsty. Brutal. Beautifully human.
It’s drenched in grief and childhood trauma. Packed with revenge, survival, and the kind of pain that sits heavy in your chest.
Amelia and Caiden are enemies ➝ friends ➝ lovers, but nothing about their journey is easy. This is a true slow burn, built on years of hatred, damage, and wounds that run deep. They’ll have to decide if they keep destroying each other or let that fire become something unforgettable.
Raw. Angsty. Brutal. Beautifully human.
January 18, 2026
⭐️ARC review⭐️
Oh my god this book was such a rollercoaster I loved every minute of!
This book absolutely hit so much I wasn’t expecting. The romance was absolutely a slow burn, but somehow so tense throughout, even with the events that we went through with them. The story also showed more than just romance. It was dark and heavy, so definitely check the trigger warnings! I’m so happy I got to be an ARC reader for this, and I CANNOT wait for the next book😍
Oh my god this book was such a rollercoaster I loved every minute of!
This book absolutely hit so much I wasn’t expecting. The romance was absolutely a slow burn, but somehow so tense throughout, even with the events that we went through with them. The story also showed more than just romance. It was dark and heavy, so definitely check the trigger warnings! I’m so happy I got to be an ARC reader for this, and I CANNOT wait for the next book😍
April 11, 2026
I received a copy of this to review.
I was very clear in understanding it would be a slow burn, so I gave this more time than I would have for other books.
This one wasn’t for me, truthfully.
I appreciate what the author was trying to do. But for me it became too much back story, too slow, and felt like the book took too long to get where it was going.
For me it fizzled out and I felt like I was having to force myself to keep reading.
I was very clear in understanding it would be a slow burn, so I gave this more time than I would have for other books.
This one wasn’t for me, truthfully.
I appreciate what the author was trying to do. But for me it became too much back story, too slow, and felt like the book took too long to get where it was going.
For me it fizzled out and I felt like I was having to force myself to keep reading.
May 6, 2026
DNF 41%
*We were both soaked through, tripping and gasping in the undergrowth, but Amelia managed to do it with more whining than any human had a right to.*
My god present Amelia is a whiny bitch. None of the dark stuff fazed me, but I cannot stand her whining. That’s all she does. Just shut up and walk through the woods. And Caiden is an idiot for not leading them back via the river. Of course they are lost.
*We were both soaked through, tripping and gasping in the undergrowth, but Amelia managed to do it with more whining than any human had a right to.*
My god present Amelia is a whiny bitch. None of the dark stuff fazed me, but I cannot stand her whining. That’s all she does. Just shut up and walk through the woods. And Caiden is an idiot for not leading them back via the river. Of course they are lost.
July 3, 2026
Must read
The amount of trauma in this book leaves you with your mouth agape. Like just when you think it can’t get worse, it does. The worst part is that so much of the trauma in this book does actually affect many people. It was such a good read. There were times I had to pause and process the trauma that I just read. Can’t wait for book 2 where hopefully the healing happens.
The amount of trauma in this book leaves you with your mouth agape. Like just when you think it can’t get worse, it does. The worst part is that so much of the trauma in this book does actually affect many people. It was such a good read. There were times I had to pause and process the trauma that I just read. Can’t wait for book 2 where hopefully the healing happens.
July 10, 2026
unfortunately, this book was not for me. The plot and characters storyline had the right idea but not the correct execution. the first half of the book felt quite detailed however the rest was very fast paced making it feel rushed. While this book was not for me, I can see that a lot of other people enjoyed it.
March 21, 2026
I loved this book! I read is as an ARC reader and could not put it down!! Super excited about book 2 coming out soon!!
May 13, 2026
Amazing
Great book. So many twists you don’t see coming. I throughly enjoyed this book and can not wait to dive into book 2.
Great book. So many twists you don’t see coming. I throughly enjoyed this book and can not wait to dive into book 2.
June 8, 2026
Se me hizo demasiado largo, no avanzaba nunca nada y encima me estoy enterando que es una Trilogía.
Para mi no vale la pena, aunque le doy dos estrellas por estar varados.
Para mi no vale la pena, aunque le doy dos estrellas por estar varados.
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