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Hate and Love: A Dark Romance Collection
- GenresDark RomanceDark
586 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
About the author
C. Hallman
128 books2,789 followersC. Hallman is a USA Today Bestselling Author who wrote her debut novel in 2018 and has since published over 100 books in various romance subgenres. Her works have been on numerous bestseller lists and have been translated into 8 languages around the world.
When she doesn't write her next novel, she publishes spicy novellas under the pen name Darcy Rose.
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When she doesn't write her next novel, she publishes spicy novellas under the pen name Darcy Rose.
FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA>>>>
https://www.facebook.com/Cassandrahal...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 17, 2026
I received an ARC for my honest review. This book contains 4 dark romance books with each being different from each other. Each book has those morally grey men is dark romance readers love! I will definitely be reading the rest of those that are part of a series!
February 21, 2026
Four stories. Four dangerously addictive romances. And one dark, twisted world where hate, obsession, and love blur together in the most chaotic way possible😮🔥
If you love morally gray men, messy emotional tension, and romance that lives on the darker side of the genre then this collection seriously delivers. Each story brings a different vibe, but together they create one intense ride through revenge, power, protection, and redemption.
✨ The Hate Vow — Enemies to lovers done the HARD way. Years of resentment, raw emotions, and a slow shift from hatred into something complicated had me completely hooked. Penny and Ryder’s story is gritty, emotional, and full of tension that refuses to stay quiet.
🔥 Hell — Dark club romance that fully commits to the shadows. Club Purgatory isn’t just a setting it’s a whole atmosphere. Rowan and Lucien bring intense power dynamics, heavy themes, and a world that feels dangerous, seductive, and impossible to look away from.
🖤 Hateful Vows — Elite bully romance energy turned ALL the way up. Wicked Falls is ruthless, Briggs is unhinged, and the enemies to lovers tension is messy, chaotic, and addictive. This one leans fully into the darker side of the trope and doesn’t pretend to be soft about it.
⚔️ Protect Me — Mafia romance with dangerous protector vibes. Damon Rossi walks the line between terrifying and irresistible, and watching the walls come down between him and Keira added a suspense-filled, emotional edge to the collection.
What I loved most about Hate and Love collection is how every book explores a different version of darkness from revenge, control, survival, obsession but still gives you that addictive emotional payoff that keeps you turning pages.
⚠️ These are DARK romances, so definitely check triggers before diving in. The characters are flawed, the worlds are intense, and the stories are meant for readers who enjoy pushing the edges of the genre.
If your dark romance heart lives for:
✨ Morally gray anti heroes
✨ Enemies to lovers & bully romance
✨ Mafia + dark club worlds
✨ High tension, high drama, high spice energy
…then this collection is absolutely worth the binge 🖤🔥
If you love morally gray men, messy emotional tension, and romance that lives on the darker side of the genre then this collection seriously delivers. Each story brings a different vibe, but together they create one intense ride through revenge, power, protection, and redemption.
✨ The Hate Vow — Enemies to lovers done the HARD way. Years of resentment, raw emotions, and a slow shift from hatred into something complicated had me completely hooked. Penny and Ryder’s story is gritty, emotional, and full of tension that refuses to stay quiet.
🔥 Hell — Dark club romance that fully commits to the shadows. Club Purgatory isn’t just a setting it’s a whole atmosphere. Rowan and Lucien bring intense power dynamics, heavy themes, and a world that feels dangerous, seductive, and impossible to look away from.
🖤 Hateful Vows — Elite bully romance energy turned ALL the way up. Wicked Falls is ruthless, Briggs is unhinged, and the enemies to lovers tension is messy, chaotic, and addictive. This one leans fully into the darker side of the trope and doesn’t pretend to be soft about it.
⚔️ Protect Me — Mafia romance with dangerous protector vibes. Damon Rossi walks the line between terrifying and irresistible, and watching the walls come down between him and Keira added a suspense-filled, emotional edge to the collection.
What I loved most about Hate and Love collection is how every book explores a different version of darkness from revenge, control, survival, obsession but still gives you that addictive emotional payoff that keeps you turning pages.
⚠️ These are DARK romances, so definitely check triggers before diving in. The characters are flawed, the worlds are intense, and the stories are meant for readers who enjoy pushing the edges of the genre.
If your dark romance heart lives for:
✨ Morally gray anti heroes
✨ Enemies to lovers & bully romance
✨ Mafia + dark club worlds
✨ High tension, high drama, high spice energy
…then this collection is absolutely worth the binge 🖤🔥
February 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I struggled a little bit with story 3 in this book. But something I would definitely reread.
February 24, 2026
This dark romance collection includes four full-length standalones that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Book includes:
The Hate Vow
Is an enemy to lovers, MC, romance, including tropes like blackmail, forced proximity, and revenge.
Hell
Is an age gap romance, including tropes like power play, blackmail, and CNC.
Hateful Vows
Is a bully romance, including tropes like stalking, college, and forced proximity.
Protect Me
Is a mafia romance, including tropes like brother's best friend, forced marriage, and betrayal.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Enemies-to-Lovers, MC Romance, Blackmail, Forced Proximity, Revenge, Age Gap, Power play, CNC, Bully Romance, Stalking, College Romance, Mafia Romance, Brother’s Best Friend, Forced Marriage, Betrayal, Kidnapping, Powerplay, Sex Club, Morally Gray Anti-Heroes, Mafia, Dark Club Worlds, High Tension/High Drama/High Spice Energy
Hate and Love is A Dark Romance Collection by C. Hallman.
I really enjoy C. Hallman’s writing. I first came across her writing when I read her book Hateful Vows which is the 1st book in her Wicked Falls Elite series. So, when I had the opportunity to read this collection of four unique and interesting stories, each one built around their own different tropes while still managing to share that addictive enemies-to-lovers vibes.
I love that each of the stories are quick reads in and of themselves, and it’s incredibly easy to slip in and out of the world, getting involved in each of the characters lives right away. C. Hallman’s pacing of each story is so perfectly smooth, the chemistry between our couples is so much fun, and each story ends leaving you wanting more.
Honestly, I can say that Hate and Love is the perfect read if you’re looking for a quick, short, enthralling romantic read that manages to deliver all the depth and charm you could ever want.
The Hate Vow
Penny thought that all she really wanted was to excel at everything she set her mind to. And she really wanted to hold the attention of her foster father, the only man she had to look up to as a father figure. That is until Ryder, a new arrival at Penny’s foster home, arrived. Suddenly Penny finds herself telling a lie that’s going to change both her life and Ryders life forever.
Ryder is finally out of jail, having been found guilty of committing a crime he never committed. Now Ryder finds himself the VP to the very MC that Penny owes money to. And when Penny walks in knowing she owes this debt, knowing full well that she can’t repay it and has no way to repay it, its Ryder who comes up with a new payment plan for Penny. But when Ryder looks at Penny he finds she’s not the same girl that he left behind, he finds that she’s changed, and he’s realized that Penny is just a shell of the girl he once knew and, in that moment, Ryder vows to himself to find out why and what happened to her.
Can there be a future for Penny and Ryder, even through all the lies, the hurt, and the past that lies between them?
I found this to be a really well written story with some dark themes, an enthralling story that C. Hallman brought to life with such beautiful detailed descriptions and emotional dialogue. I loved the chemistry between Ryder and Penny and that really pulled the characters together and pulled you into the story.
Hell
Lucian and Rowen’s story is sure to keep you on your toes with all the heartbreak, desires, and so much more. This story is going to take you to Purgatory, the club that simply swallows you up with such need and wanting, a place where every desire is its command but you need to watch out and keep your eyes open.
Rowen finds herself in debt and needing to repay it and now finds herself working at Purgatory’s Hell – this is a club where the word no doesn’t exist.
When Lucian first met Rowen, he knew right away that there was something different and special about her, something that simply drew him in and made him long for her, crave to touch her. But he also knows that Rowen is his employee and he has rules about not touching or fraternization with his employees. Rowen owes him a debt, one he will make sure she repays in full, any way he desires.
In typical C. Hallman fashion this was another wonderful well written short story that was filled with so many hot and spicy scenes that were filled with so much desire and more. I found that the characters enthralled you and just held your attention till the very end.
Hateful Vows
This was the short story form of the first book of C. Hallman’s that I ever read and I found it very interesting to read this version of the story after having already read the longer format.
Wren is used to being given the same reputation as her mother, all because of what her mother had done. And Wren has been hurt, terrorized, and bullied, all because of what her mom had done. And the ring leader of the gang? None other than Briggs. But Briggs shouldn’t be throwing stones as his dad’s not so innocent in all of this, he was wrapped up in everything that her own mom did. Maybe not everything in Weston home was as perfect as it seemed looking in.
Wren promised herself that she was going to be different. She just didn’t know that there was going to be a cost to her life in order to do that. I still worry that someone is going to get seriously hurt and I still fear that in the end it’s going to end up being Wren. But I also think that Briggs is also going to end up getting hurt himself.
This story is full of a ton of obstacles, emotions, and fear. Could there be some form of redemption? I think so, or at least I hope so. This is a beautifully written story that is a spicy academic bully romance, enemies-to-lovers, that its full of angst, drama and so much more.
Protect Me
I am a huge lover of dark romances, when there should be absolutely no hope for the MMC falling for the FMC. This makes the HEA all that much more satisfying. And that is exactly what C. Hallman did for her readers in this book. This story is full of drama, intensity, spicyness, and the slow growing satisfying love.
Kiera and Damon’s story is just stunning. And I can promise you that I will be looking to read more of this duo.
After Kieras brother suddenly passes away there’s only one person she has left to turn to for help and protection, Damien, her brother’s best friend who just happens to be a mafia boss. Damien runs a strip club and a lot of other things. Kiera’s brother had always told her that if anything ever happened to him she was to go to Damien, he would know what to do and he would keep her safe.
When Kiera turns up on Damien’s door step he knows that he should turn her away, and yet he finds himself drawn to her, a pull towards her.
Damien has always walked a tight rope between the terrifying and irresistible. And when he lets Kiera into his life, he finds the walls that he’s always kept built tight around him slowly crumbling around him.
You can tell that Damien never expected his best friend’s sister to end up on his door step begging for help, asking for his protection. And when Damien realizes that the only way to keep her safe is to marry her, suddenly he realizes that he is the one that is truly in danger…not from his enemies…but from losing his heart.
But, what of his enemies? Will they use Kiera against him?
Mafia romances have always had this double edge vibe between the romance and this dangerous protector vibe. The chemistry and bond between Damien and Keira added this layer of suspense, emotion and an edge to the story.
This was such a stunning short story to read and I just loved it so much.
This collection of 4 short stories is such a wonderful read and I highly recommend you pick it up and give it a read. I am sure you’ll find that you will enjoy it just as much as I did.
Book includes:
The Hate Vow
Is an enemy to lovers, MC, romance, including tropes like blackmail, forced proximity, and revenge.
Hell
Is an age gap romance, including tropes like power play, blackmail, and CNC.
Hateful Vows
Is a bully romance, including tropes like stalking, college, and forced proximity.
Protect Me
Is a mafia romance, including tropes like brother's best friend, forced marriage, and betrayal.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Enemies-to-Lovers, MC Romance, Blackmail, Forced Proximity, Revenge, Age Gap, Power play, CNC, Bully Romance, Stalking, College Romance, Mafia Romance, Brother’s Best Friend, Forced Marriage, Betrayal, Kidnapping, Powerplay, Sex Club, Morally Gray Anti-Heroes, Mafia, Dark Club Worlds, High Tension/High Drama/High Spice Energy
Hate and Love is A Dark Romance Collection by C. Hallman.
I really enjoy C. Hallman’s writing. I first came across her writing when I read her book Hateful Vows which is the 1st book in her Wicked Falls Elite series. So, when I had the opportunity to read this collection of four unique and interesting stories, each one built around their own different tropes while still managing to share that addictive enemies-to-lovers vibes.
I love that each of the stories are quick reads in and of themselves, and it’s incredibly easy to slip in and out of the world, getting involved in each of the characters lives right away. C. Hallman’s pacing of each story is so perfectly smooth, the chemistry between our couples is so much fun, and each story ends leaving you wanting more.
Honestly, I can say that Hate and Love is the perfect read if you’re looking for a quick, short, enthralling romantic read that manages to deliver all the depth and charm you could ever want.
The Hate Vow
Penny thought that all she really wanted was to excel at everything she set her mind to. And she really wanted to hold the attention of her foster father, the only man she had to look up to as a father figure. That is until Ryder, a new arrival at Penny’s foster home, arrived. Suddenly Penny finds herself telling a lie that’s going to change both her life and Ryders life forever.
Ryder is finally out of jail, having been found guilty of committing a crime he never committed. Now Ryder finds himself the VP to the very MC that Penny owes money to. And when Penny walks in knowing she owes this debt, knowing full well that she can’t repay it and has no way to repay it, its Ryder who comes up with a new payment plan for Penny. But when Ryder looks at Penny he finds she’s not the same girl that he left behind, he finds that she’s changed, and he’s realized that Penny is just a shell of the girl he once knew and, in that moment, Ryder vows to himself to find out why and what happened to her.
Can there be a future for Penny and Ryder, even through all the lies, the hurt, and the past that lies between them?
I found this to be a really well written story with some dark themes, an enthralling story that C. Hallman brought to life with such beautiful detailed descriptions and emotional dialogue. I loved the chemistry between Ryder and Penny and that really pulled the characters together and pulled you into the story.
Hell
Lucian and Rowen’s story is sure to keep you on your toes with all the heartbreak, desires, and so much more. This story is going to take you to Purgatory, the club that simply swallows you up with such need and wanting, a place where every desire is its command but you need to watch out and keep your eyes open.
Rowen finds herself in debt and needing to repay it and now finds herself working at Purgatory’s Hell – this is a club where the word no doesn’t exist.
When Lucian first met Rowen, he knew right away that there was something different and special about her, something that simply drew him in and made him long for her, crave to touch her. But he also knows that Rowen is his employee and he has rules about not touching or fraternization with his employees. Rowen owes him a debt, one he will make sure she repays in full, any way he desires.
In typical C. Hallman fashion this was another wonderful well written short story that was filled with so many hot and spicy scenes that were filled with so much desire and more. I found that the characters enthralled you and just held your attention till the very end.
Hateful Vows
This was the short story form of the first book of C. Hallman’s that I ever read and I found it very interesting to read this version of the story after having already read the longer format.
Wren is used to being given the same reputation as her mother, all because of what her mother had done. And Wren has been hurt, terrorized, and bullied, all because of what her mom had done. And the ring leader of the gang? None other than Briggs. But Briggs shouldn’t be throwing stones as his dad’s not so innocent in all of this, he was wrapped up in everything that her own mom did. Maybe not everything in Weston home was as perfect as it seemed looking in.
Wren promised herself that she was going to be different. She just didn’t know that there was going to be a cost to her life in order to do that. I still worry that someone is going to get seriously hurt and I still fear that in the end it’s going to end up being Wren. But I also think that Briggs is also going to end up getting hurt himself.
This story is full of a ton of obstacles, emotions, and fear. Could there be some form of redemption? I think so, or at least I hope so. This is a beautifully written story that is a spicy academic bully romance, enemies-to-lovers, that its full of angst, drama and so much more.
Protect Me
I am a huge lover of dark romances, when there should be absolutely no hope for the MMC falling for the FMC. This makes the HEA all that much more satisfying. And that is exactly what C. Hallman did for her readers in this book. This story is full of drama, intensity, spicyness, and the slow growing satisfying love.
Kiera and Damon’s story is just stunning. And I can promise you that I will be looking to read more of this duo.
After Kieras brother suddenly passes away there’s only one person she has left to turn to for help and protection, Damien, her brother’s best friend who just happens to be a mafia boss. Damien runs a strip club and a lot of other things. Kiera’s brother had always told her that if anything ever happened to him she was to go to Damien, he would know what to do and he would keep her safe.
When Kiera turns up on Damien’s door step he knows that he should turn her away, and yet he finds himself drawn to her, a pull towards her.
Damien has always walked a tight rope between the terrifying and irresistible. And when he lets Kiera into his life, he finds the walls that he’s always kept built tight around him slowly crumbling around him.
You can tell that Damien never expected his best friend’s sister to end up on his door step begging for help, asking for his protection. And when Damien realizes that the only way to keep her safe is to marry her, suddenly he realizes that he is the one that is truly in danger…not from his enemies…but from losing his heart.
But, what of his enemies? Will they use Kiera against him?
Mafia romances have always had this double edge vibe between the romance and this dangerous protector vibe. The chemistry and bond between Damien and Keira added this layer of suspense, emotion and an edge to the story.
This was such a stunning short story to read and I just loved it so much.
This collection of 4 short stories is such a wonderful read and I highly recommend you pick it up and give it a read. I am sure you’ll find that you will enjoy it just as much as I did.
March 13, 2026
Hate and Love is a dark romance collection. A collection of four dark full-length standalone romance novels featuring aged gap trope, enemies-to-lovers, bully romance and mafia themes with mature adult content. This dark collection will have you on your seat. The stories are complex with world building individuals and twisty and fascinating storyline that grabs the audience attention from the first chapter and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat with panty-melting passion, pulse-pounding non-stop twists and turns, tension, heart-stopping emotions, drama, high-octane adventures, and angst. Decadent. Sinful. Raunchy. Dirty. Irresistible. Captivating. Dangerous. Twisted. Compelling.
Oozing and dripping with heat and romance. This collection demands to be read and screamed escape from the everyday life that you craved and never knew that you needed. OMG! This story is wonderfully written with characters that are fierce, brave, resilient, shrewd, protective, passionate and powerful. The books included in this collection include:
✳️The Hate Vow
✳️Hell
✳️Hateful Vows
✳️Protect Me
Tropes:
💋Billionaires Falling Hard
✅️Opposite Attracts Story
🔫Touch-her-and-Die Romance
✅️Power Dynamics & Alpha Control
❤️Scared vs. Sinful Tension
✅️Brother's Best Friend Story
🔥♨️Sexual Awakening
✅️Forced Proximity Romance
💋🔥Panty-Melting Passion
✅️Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
☠️☠️Dark Mafia Romance
✅️Hate-to-Love Vibes Story
🏤College Romance
✅️Romance Collections & Anthologies
💀💀Organize Crime Thriller
✅️Contemporary Romance
🔥➰️🪢BDSM, Kinks, Praises, Bondage
✅️Over Protective Alpha Heroes
🔥🔥💋♨️Super Hot Scenes
🧖Women's New adult & College Fiction
"Wow it's all I can say about this whole collection". O!M!G! HOT HOT!!! C. Hallman, I thought that I was going to have to sit in an ice bath to cool off, it was so HOT!!! Pitch dark, filthy, naughty and lethal just the way I love them!!! I wish that I could give it ten stars. But five stars is all that I could give it.
Every book in this collection has been engaging! Once you started reading them you cannot put them down!" Over 586 pages of scorching hot passion, dark secrets, different worlds, all praises, talking her through all the big "O," possessiveness, obsession, murder, bloodshed, threat, darkness, madness loss, CNC, blackmail, power play, grief, love, pain and hurt, redemption, forgiveness, trauma, acceptance and a oh satisfying happily-ever-after.
Protect Me is book one in The Rossi Crime Family Series. But it can be read as a complete standalone. It contains no cliffhangers, no cheating and has a HEA. It’s dark mafia/crime romance and contains subject matter not suitable for readers. A woman seeks protection from a mafia family member by turning to his brother, offering her virginity in exchange. Their forbidden attraction complicates dangerous family loyalties. Contains mature adult themes. A brilliantly written story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline captures the reader from the start and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat and turning the pages. This is Kiera and Damon story which is told from a dual point of view.
Kiera is a eighteen year college student who's from college only to come face-to-face with her murdered brother laying on the floor with that say you're next. Years ago her brother would always tell her that if she was in trouble she should go see his best friend Damon Rossi. Kiera was unaware that her brother involved in the mafia. Damon Rossi is twenty-two year old and the ex-best friend of her brother. He's also part of the Rossi crime family. He's ruthless, calculated, cold-hearted and handsome. Kiera is beautiful, shy, innocent and totally off-limits.
When she got to Damon she asked for protection but he refused until she promised her virginity in exchange and he couldn't refuse such a tempted offer. Their passion was spicy, sizzling, and electrifying. Kiera has no idea the world that she walked into, or that he's no better than the one searching for her. And she's also unaware that the man that she was running from was Damon's brother who was for more lethal and monstrous than him but both are equally dark and psychotic. She was everything that he wanted, and everything he can't have. And when his brother finds out that she's under his protection and that I've been hiding her right under his nose. And when he gives an ultimatum the question is which option he choose?
Damon as been an asshole cold-blooded bastard his whole life but when Kiera walked into his life everything changes. She as some how gotten under his sick and all he want to do is to protect her because he's obsessed and possessive about her. She didn't understand why would her brother send her to a heartless douche bag and many times tried to escape his crutches but was unsuccessful. He tell her that she was his now that he own her and whatever he say goes. He's will to go up against his brother to protect her, because he claimed her as his own and he will go up against anyone in order to protect. When Damon goes up against his brother Xander Kiera will see a different side to him.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oozing and dripping with heat and romance. This collection demands to be read and screamed escape from the everyday life that you craved and never knew that you needed. OMG! This story is wonderfully written with characters that are fierce, brave, resilient, shrewd, protective, passionate and powerful. The books included in this collection include:
✳️The Hate Vow
✳️Hell
✳️Hateful Vows
✳️Protect Me
Tropes:
💋Billionaires Falling Hard
✅️Opposite Attracts Story
🔫Touch-her-and-Die Romance
✅️Power Dynamics & Alpha Control
❤️Scared vs. Sinful Tension
✅️Brother's Best Friend Story
🔥♨️Sexual Awakening
✅️Forced Proximity Romance
💋🔥Panty-Melting Passion
✅️Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
☠️☠️Dark Mafia Romance
✅️Hate-to-Love Vibes Story
🏤College Romance
✅️Romance Collections & Anthologies
💀💀Organize Crime Thriller
✅️Contemporary Romance
🔥➰️🪢BDSM, Kinks, Praises, Bondage
✅️Over Protective Alpha Heroes
🔥🔥💋♨️Super Hot Scenes
🧖Women's New adult & College Fiction
"Wow it's all I can say about this whole collection". O!M!G! HOT HOT!!! C. Hallman, I thought that I was going to have to sit in an ice bath to cool off, it was so HOT!!! Pitch dark, filthy, naughty and lethal just the way I love them!!! I wish that I could give it ten stars. But five stars is all that I could give it.
Every book in this collection has been engaging! Once you started reading them you cannot put them down!" Over 586 pages of scorching hot passion, dark secrets, different worlds, all praises, talking her through all the big "O," possessiveness, obsession, murder, bloodshed, threat, darkness, madness loss, CNC, blackmail, power play, grief, love, pain and hurt, redemption, forgiveness, trauma, acceptance and a oh satisfying happily-ever-after.
Protect Me is book one in The Rossi Crime Family Series. But it can be read as a complete standalone. It contains no cliffhangers, no cheating and has a HEA. It’s dark mafia/crime romance and contains subject matter not suitable for readers. A woman seeks protection from a mafia family member by turning to his brother, offering her virginity in exchange. Their forbidden attraction complicates dangerous family loyalties. Contains mature adult themes. A brilliantly written story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline captures the reader from the start and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat and turning the pages. This is Kiera and Damon story which is told from a dual point of view.
Kiera is a eighteen year college student who's from college only to come face-to-face with her murdered brother laying on the floor with that say you're next. Years ago her brother would always tell her that if she was in trouble she should go see his best friend Damon Rossi. Kiera was unaware that her brother involved in the mafia. Damon Rossi is twenty-two year old and the ex-best friend of her brother. He's also part of the Rossi crime family. He's ruthless, calculated, cold-hearted and handsome. Kiera is beautiful, shy, innocent and totally off-limits.
When she got to Damon she asked for protection but he refused until she promised her virginity in exchange and he couldn't refuse such a tempted offer. Their passion was spicy, sizzling, and electrifying. Kiera has no idea the world that she walked into, or that he's no better than the one searching for her. And she's also unaware that the man that she was running from was Damon's brother who was for more lethal and monstrous than him but both are equally dark and psychotic. She was everything that he wanted, and everything he can't have. And when his brother finds out that she's under his protection and that I've been hiding her right under his nose. And when he gives an ultimatum the question is which option he choose?
Damon as been an asshole cold-blooded bastard his whole life but when Kiera walked into his life everything changes. She as some how gotten under his sick and all he want to do is to protect her because he's obsessed and possessive about her. She didn't understand why would her brother send her to a heartless douche bag and many times tried to escape his crutches but was unsuccessful. He tell her that she was his now that he own her and whatever he say goes. He's will to go up against his brother to protect her, because he claimed her as his own and he will go up against anyone in order to protect. When Damon goes up against his brother Xander Kiera will see a different side to him.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to read and review it.
Hate to Love is a dark romance that feels more like reading an entire series in one book. It combines multiple parts into one long, immersive story, and once I started reading, I found it very hard to stop. I became emotionally invested in the characters and their journey, which says a lot considering the length of the book.
The story follows Briggs and Wren, whose relationship begins in a very toxic, hate-filled way and slowly evolves into something deeper and more meaningful. Briggs is a deeply flawed, emotionally damaged character with a lot of anger and unresolved pain. Wren, on the other hand, grows so much throughout the story and proves to be far stronger than she first appears. Watching her find her voice and strength was one of my favorite parts.
What really stood out to me is how realistic and layered the characters feel. They aren’t perfect, and they don’t always make the right choices. Their relationship is messy, complicated, and sometimes uncomfortable — but that is exactly what makes it feel real within the dark romance genre. Side characters like Carter, Tucker, Kellen, Maya, and Lacy also added depth and made the story world feel complete.
Because this book contains multiple volumes, the pacing changes throughout. Some parts are very intense and emotional, while others focus more on healing, growth, and character development. At times it does feel long, but I personally appreciated that nothing was rushed. The relationship develops slowly and naturally instead of changing overnight, which made it more believable and satisfying.
The writing style is easy to follow and very engaging. Despite the length, I never felt bored. The emotional tension, inner struggles, and power dynamics between Briggs and Wren kept pulling me back in, and I often found myself saying, “just one more chapter.”
This is definitely not a light romance. It includes dark themes, toxic behavior, and heavy emotions, so readers should be aware of that before starting. If you enjoy slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers stories with morally gray characters and emotional depth, this book will likely be a great fit.
Overall, Hate to Love is a powerful and emotional dark romance with complex characters and a long, immersive storyline that truly feels like multiple books in one. It made me feel connected to the characters, invested in their journey, and satisfied by the way everything unfolded.
⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars
Highly recommended for fans of dark, emotional romance.
Hate to Love is a dark romance that feels more like reading an entire series in one book. It combines multiple parts into one long, immersive story, and once I started reading, I found it very hard to stop. I became emotionally invested in the characters and their journey, which says a lot considering the length of the book.
The story follows Briggs and Wren, whose relationship begins in a very toxic, hate-filled way and slowly evolves into something deeper and more meaningful. Briggs is a deeply flawed, emotionally damaged character with a lot of anger and unresolved pain. Wren, on the other hand, grows so much throughout the story and proves to be far stronger than she first appears. Watching her find her voice and strength was one of my favorite parts.
What really stood out to me is how realistic and layered the characters feel. They aren’t perfect, and they don’t always make the right choices. Their relationship is messy, complicated, and sometimes uncomfortable — but that is exactly what makes it feel real within the dark romance genre. Side characters like Carter, Tucker, Kellen, Maya, and Lacy also added depth and made the story world feel complete.
Because this book contains multiple volumes, the pacing changes throughout. Some parts are very intense and emotional, while others focus more on healing, growth, and character development. At times it does feel long, but I personally appreciated that nothing was rushed. The relationship develops slowly and naturally instead of changing overnight, which made it more believable and satisfying.
The writing style is easy to follow and very engaging. Despite the length, I never felt bored. The emotional tension, inner struggles, and power dynamics between Briggs and Wren kept pulling me back in, and I often found myself saying, “just one more chapter.”
This is definitely not a light romance. It includes dark themes, toxic behavior, and heavy emotions, so readers should be aware of that before starting. If you enjoy slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers stories with morally gray characters and emotional depth, this book will likely be a great fit.
Overall, Hate to Love is a powerful and emotional dark romance with complex characters and a long, immersive storyline that truly feels like multiple books in one. It made me feel connected to the characters, invested in their journey, and satisfied by the way everything unfolded.
⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars
Highly recommended for fans of dark, emotional romance.
February 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hate and Love: A Dark Romance Collection by C. Hallman completely consumed me. This collection is not for the faint of heart, but if you love dark, gritty, morally gray heroes and heroines who refuse to go down without a fight, you are going to devour this.
Each story pulls you into a world where power, obsession, revenge, and twisted devotion collide in the most addictive way.
The Hate Vow absolutely hooked me. The enemies to lovers dynamic between Penny and Ryder is brutal and emotionally charged. Their history is messy and painful, and the tension between them is thick from the very first chapter. Ryder is fueled by hate, but underneath it you can feel something deeper simmering. Watching karma unfold and seeing how their past shapes their present made this story impossible to put down.
Hell delivers a dark and decadent atmosphere that feels intoxicating. The club setting is immersive and dangerous, where control and surrender blur together. It has that sinful edge that makes you hold your breath while turning the page. The power dynamics are intense, and the vibe is unapologetically dark.
Hateful Vows brings college drama with a vicious twist. Briggs Weston is the kind of unhinged, powerful hero that dark romance readers crave. He is ruthless, calculating, and absolutely magnetic. The tension between him and the heroine crackles with every interaction. The bullying and power plays raise the stakes, but the heroine’s strength and refusal to break makes the payoff even sweeter.
Protect Me might be my favorite of the collection. Mafia, forbidden love, forced proximity, and a marriage ultimatum that changes everything. The brother’s best friend trope mixed with danger and family betrayal creates such high emotional stakes. The hero is torn between loyalty and desire, and the protective obsession that grows between them had me swooning in the darkest way. The marriage or death ultimatum sealed the deal for me. It is intense, dramatic, and full of that ride or die energy dark romance fans love.
C. Hallman has a way of writing flawed, damaged characters who love fiercely even when it looks nothing like a fairy tale. These stories are raw, provocative, and emotionally heavy, but they are also addictive and impossible to forget.
If you love enemies to lovers, mafia tension, morally gray men, high stakes drama, and stories that push boundaries, this collection deserves a spot on your shelf.
Five unapologetically dark stars.
Hate and Love: A Dark Romance Collection by C. Hallman completely consumed me. This collection is not for the faint of heart, but if you love dark, gritty, morally gray heroes and heroines who refuse to go down without a fight, you are going to devour this.
Each story pulls you into a world where power, obsession, revenge, and twisted devotion collide in the most addictive way.
The Hate Vow absolutely hooked me. The enemies to lovers dynamic between Penny and Ryder is brutal and emotionally charged. Their history is messy and painful, and the tension between them is thick from the very first chapter. Ryder is fueled by hate, but underneath it you can feel something deeper simmering. Watching karma unfold and seeing how their past shapes their present made this story impossible to put down.
Hell delivers a dark and decadent atmosphere that feels intoxicating. The club setting is immersive and dangerous, where control and surrender blur together. It has that sinful edge that makes you hold your breath while turning the page. The power dynamics are intense, and the vibe is unapologetically dark.
Hateful Vows brings college drama with a vicious twist. Briggs Weston is the kind of unhinged, powerful hero that dark romance readers crave. He is ruthless, calculating, and absolutely magnetic. The tension between him and the heroine crackles with every interaction. The bullying and power plays raise the stakes, but the heroine’s strength and refusal to break makes the payoff even sweeter.
Protect Me might be my favorite of the collection. Mafia, forbidden love, forced proximity, and a marriage ultimatum that changes everything. The brother’s best friend trope mixed with danger and family betrayal creates such high emotional stakes. The hero is torn between loyalty and desire, and the protective obsession that grows between them had me swooning in the darkest way. The marriage or death ultimatum sealed the deal for me. It is intense, dramatic, and full of that ride or die energy dark romance fans love.
C. Hallman has a way of writing flawed, damaged characters who love fiercely even when it looks nothing like a fairy tale. These stories are raw, provocative, and emotionally heavy, but they are also addictive and impossible to forget.
If you love enemies to lovers, mafia tension, morally gray men, high stakes drama, and stories that push boundaries, this collection deserves a spot on your shelf.
Five unapologetically dark stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Hate Vow-Penny though all she wanted was to excel at everything, and hold the attention of her foster father, until new arrival Ryder came along and she finds her self telling a lie that will change both Penny and Ryders life forever. After years in jail for a crime he didn't commit Ryder now VP to an MC that Penny owes money too. When Penny walks in with a debt she cant repay its Ryder who comes up with a new payment plan, but Ryder finds Pennys not the same girl he left behind shes a shell of her former self and he vows to find out why. is there a future for Penny an Ryder even through the lies and hurt? well written with dark themes, an engaging story that is brought to life with detailed descriptions and emotional dialogue between these two chemistry pulled characters.
Hell- Lucian and Rowens story will keep you on your toes with heartbreak desires and more! Purgatory the club that swallows you whole with need and wanting, every desire is its command but watch out. Needing to pay back her debt Rowen finds her self working at Purgatory's Hell - a place where no doesnt exist. Lucian knew there was something different about Rowen something that drew him in and made him crave her more, but shes his employee and he has rules, but she owes him a debt one he will have repayed in anyway he desires. well written filled with hot steamy scenes, desires, and more. the characters draw you in and hold your attention throughout.
Hateful vows -Wren is use to being clubbed with the reputation of her mother, and turning up to wicked falls university she finds herself as a target of Briggs who has a vendetta against her, but will things change between them when feelings get blurred? Well written steamy bully, lovers, revenge, angst drama and more!.
Protect me- when Kieras brother dies she has only one person to turn to for protection, his friend and mafia boss Damien, he runs a strip club and does a lot more, he should turn her away but finds himself drawn to her, but what of his enemies engaging story.
Hell- Lucian and Rowens story will keep you on your toes with heartbreak desires and more! Purgatory the club that swallows you whole with need and wanting, every desire is its command but watch out. Needing to pay back her debt Rowen finds her self working at Purgatory's Hell - a place where no doesnt exist. Lucian knew there was something different about Rowen something that drew him in and made him crave her more, but shes his employee and he has rules, but she owes him a debt one he will have repayed in anyway he desires. well written filled with hot steamy scenes, desires, and more. the characters draw you in and hold your attention throughout.
Hateful vows -Wren is use to being clubbed with the reputation of her mother, and turning up to wicked falls university she finds herself as a target of Briggs who has a vendetta against her, but will things change between them when feelings get blurred? Well written steamy bully, lovers, revenge, angst drama and more!.
Protect me- when Kieras brother dies she has only one person to turn to for protection, his friend and mafia boss Damien, he runs a strip club and does a lot more, he should turn her away but finds himself drawn to her, but what of his enemies engaging story.
Review of advance copy
1.The Hate Vow…
A nice fast paced enemies to lovers story, with a biker gang twist. I really enjoyed it, the tension between the mmc/fmc Ryder and Penny had me hooked from the start, the conflict they were both trying to over come with their past encounters. The side plot of the deciet in the MC was a nice touch, with the member being jealous of Ryder's success in the MC, and what he attempts to do to get what he think is owed to him.
Plus a nice little HEA ending!!!
2.Hell……
Another fast paced story, this one is more gansters style, well an owner of a high end bdsm club.
I wasn't enamored with this one i felt there could have been more to the plot. I didnt feel any connection or bond forming between the fmc and mmc Rowan and Lucien. Maybe if the story was longer and more to the plot it felt way to rushed. One minute they were in a contract, and no real interaction, then ending with then being deeply in love. I felt i missed a big part of the story.
Sorry for what seems a bad review, but i will say the spice was spicing, just not the overall plot.
3.Hateful Vows
This one i really enjoyed, not as fast paced as the other two. I loved the bully to lovers plot, but wasnt fussed on the non-con at the start. It did make me a bit uncomfortable, other than that the story between Wren and Briggs was quite sweet. Especially as they were both dealing with the fallout of their parents affair (even though different reactions)
And the twist of who was threatening Wren, i did not expect that.
4.Vengful Sin
Now this one i loved....
Talk about saving the best for last!!!!
Mafia romance, intense feelings, urgency, denial, innocence...
It had it all. What makes it even better is finding out there are more books on the rossi family. Off to amazon i go lol.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A nice fast paced enemies to lovers story, with a biker gang twist. I really enjoyed it, the tension between the mmc/fmc Ryder and Penny had me hooked from the start, the conflict they were both trying to over come with their past encounters. The side plot of the deciet in the MC was a nice touch, with the member being jealous of Ryder's success in the MC, and what he attempts to do to get what he think is owed to him.
Plus a nice little HEA ending!!!
2.Hell……
Another fast paced story, this one is more gansters style, well an owner of a high end bdsm club.
I wasn't enamored with this one i felt there could have been more to the plot. I didnt feel any connection or bond forming between the fmc and mmc Rowan and Lucien. Maybe if the story was longer and more to the plot it felt way to rushed. One minute they were in a contract, and no real interaction, then ending with then being deeply in love. I felt i missed a big part of the story.
Sorry for what seems a bad review, but i will say the spice was spicing, just not the overall plot.
3.Hateful Vows
This one i really enjoyed, not as fast paced as the other two. I loved the bully to lovers plot, but wasnt fussed on the non-con at the start. It did make me a bit uncomfortable, other than that the story between Wren and Briggs was quite sweet. Especially as they were both dealing with the fallout of their parents affair (even though different reactions)
And the twist of who was threatening Wren, i did not expect that.
4.Vengful Sin
Now this one i loved....
Talk about saving the best for last!!!!
Mafia romance, intense feelings, urgency, denial, innocence...
It had it all. What makes it even better is finding out there are more books on the rossi family. Off to amazon i go lol.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2026
This is a very unique addictive collection of four stories that will have you on the edge of your seat with each couple you devour. Each story will bring you panty melting moments, passion, pulse pounding nonstop twists and turns, tension, heart stopping emotions, drama and high octane adventures. Each and every couple is unique and has amazing chemistry. There are morally gray anti heroes and woman with their own quiet strength.
The Hate Vow brings you Penny & Ryder who brings you an enemies to lovers dynamic that is brutal and emotionally charged. It has raw emotions, slow shift from hatred into something complicated. I absolutely loved this one.
Hell is a dark club romance about Club Purgatory that is a whole different atmosphere. Rowan and Lucien brings intense power dynamics heavy themes and a world that feels dangerous, seductive and impossible to look away from. It is an age gap romance, hot and spicy scenes and heartbreak desire.
Hateful Vows is an elite bully romance that is beautifully written with a vicious twist. Bullying and power plays raise the stakes but the heroine's strength and refusal to break makes the payoff even sweeter.
Protect me is a mafia romance with dangerous protector vibes. A world that is suspense filled with an emotional edge. You will get a brother's best friend forced marriage and betrayal all wrapped into a forbidden attraction complicated by dangerous family loyalties.
C.Hallman provides you characters that are flawed with worlds that are intense. There is high tension, high drama, and high spice energy. Morally gray man with messy emotional tension that lives on the darker side of the genre. Each one is a standalone with a guaranteed happy ever after. I absolutely loved each and every single story in this collection and highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Hate Vow brings you Penny & Ryder who brings you an enemies to lovers dynamic that is brutal and emotionally charged. It has raw emotions, slow shift from hatred into something complicated. I absolutely loved this one.
Hell is a dark club romance about Club Purgatory that is a whole different atmosphere. Rowan and Lucien brings intense power dynamics heavy themes and a world that feels dangerous, seductive and impossible to look away from. It is an age gap romance, hot and spicy scenes and heartbreak desire.
Hateful Vows is an elite bully romance that is beautifully written with a vicious twist. Bullying and power plays raise the stakes but the heroine's strength and refusal to break makes the payoff even sweeter.
Protect me is a mafia romance with dangerous protector vibes. A world that is suspense filled with an emotional edge. You will get a brother's best friend forced marriage and betrayal all wrapped into a forbidden attraction complicated by dangerous family loyalties.
C.Hallman provides you characters that are flawed with worlds that are intense. There is high tension, high drama, and high spice energy. Morally gray man with messy emotional tension that lives on the darker side of the genre. Each one is a standalone with a guaranteed happy ever after. I absolutely loved each and every single story in this collection and highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hate and Love: A Dark Romance Collection and it has 4 unrelated books. This gives you a sample of what this author writes and I loved it!
First up is…..
The Hate Vow is Ryder Briggs & Penny Jenkin’s story.
Ryder can be such a jerk, hiding his true feelings. It’s been more than a rough few years for Penny. In fact, it was a bad, very bad time. And Ryder doesn’t make it any easier with his gruff and rough ways. And YES, I loved their story!
This next book is Hell. It was originally a part of the Heaven & Hell series with various authors.
Hell is the second book in the Heaven & Hell series in the Hate and Love Collection. This is Lucian & Rowan’s story.
Lucian is pretty kinky! Rowan owes him a lot of money. He sends Rowan into Hell for her to work it off. Hell is kinky, twisted and depraved! There are no safe words. But Lucian does save her and decides he will save her for his own kinks. Another story I loved but this one is especially dark and twisted!
Hateful Vows is the third book in this Dark Romance Collection. It is also the first book in the Wicked Falls Elite series. This is Briggs Weston and Wren Delaney’s story. Both Briggs and Wren attend Wicked Falls Elite University. Briggs hates Wren. He is especially cruel to Wren, and this book shows that there is a thin line between love and hate. I enjoyed reading Hateful Vows.
Protect Me is the fourth book and is Damon Rossi and Keira’s story.
Kiera’s brother is dead. He had told Kiera that if something ever happened to him she was to go to Damon and he would protect her. I loved reading this book too!
All these books can be read as standalones. All have HEA’s. It is important that if you have any TW's/CW's that you check them out! These are pretty dark and kinky reads.
First up is…..
The Hate Vow is Ryder Briggs & Penny Jenkin’s story.
Ryder can be such a jerk, hiding his true feelings. It’s been more than a rough few years for Penny. In fact, it was a bad, very bad time. And Ryder doesn’t make it any easier with his gruff and rough ways. And YES, I loved their story!
This next book is Hell. It was originally a part of the Heaven & Hell series with various authors.
Hell is the second book in the Heaven & Hell series in the Hate and Love Collection. This is Lucian & Rowan’s story.
Lucian is pretty kinky! Rowan owes him a lot of money. He sends Rowan into Hell for her to work it off. Hell is kinky, twisted and depraved! There are no safe words. But Lucian does save her and decides he will save her for his own kinks. Another story I loved but this one is especially dark and twisted!
Hateful Vows is the third book in this Dark Romance Collection. It is also the first book in the Wicked Falls Elite series. This is Briggs Weston and Wren Delaney’s story. Both Briggs and Wren attend Wicked Falls Elite University. Briggs hates Wren. He is especially cruel to Wren, and this book shows that there is a thin line between love and hate. I enjoyed reading Hateful Vows.
Protect Me is the fourth book and is Damon Rossi and Keira’s story.
Kiera’s brother is dead. He had told Kiera that if something ever happened to him she was to go to Damon and he would protect her. I loved reading this book too!
All these books can be read as standalones. All have HEA’s. It is important that if you have any TW's/CW's that you check them out! These are pretty dark and kinky reads.
Review of advance copy
This is a collection of four previously published novels from different series. All are enemies to lovers genre in one collection.
I didn't realize that I had previously read the first book in the collection, The Hate Vow, but it's been awhile so I reread it. This was actually my favorite in the book. Despite how much Ryder should hate Penny after what she did to him as children, you can see his feelings for her growing throughout the book. But my favorite character has to be Mojo! This sweet rotty stole my heart.
In Hell, Rowan owes Lucien money and pays off her debt in his club. This was actually a novella with with spice but not much actually between the main characters. They were actually a slow burn, and I didn't really feel the connection between them.
In Hateful Vows, Briggs hates Wren for something in the past and bullies her along with his friends. In the blurb, it seems like Wren would be a strong FMC, but to me she just became a doormat. By the end I liked them together, but Briggs never really redeemed himself for the awful bullying.
Protect Me was my second favorite in the collection. Damon never expected his former friends sister to show up asking for protection but when he's forced to marry her he realizes he's the one in danger... of losing his heart.
None of these guys are heroes, all morally grey, and the girls in the story have their own quiet strength. And while I was totally shocked by some of their actions throughout the stories, in most I enjoyed seeing how their relationships grew and changed. I plan to read more of the series from Hate Vow and Protect Me to see what happens next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
I didn't realize that I had previously read the first book in the collection, The Hate Vow, but it's been awhile so I reread it. This was actually my favorite in the book. Despite how much Ryder should hate Penny after what she did to him as children, you can see his feelings for her growing throughout the book. But my favorite character has to be Mojo! This sweet rotty stole my heart.
In Hell, Rowan owes Lucien money and pays off her debt in his club. This was actually a novella with with spice but not much actually between the main characters. They were actually a slow burn, and I didn't really feel the connection between them.
In Hateful Vows, Briggs hates Wren for something in the past and bullies her along with his friends. In the blurb, it seems like Wren would be a strong FMC, but to me she just became a doormat. By the end I liked them together, but Briggs never really redeemed himself for the awful bullying.
Protect Me was my second favorite in the collection. Damon never expected his former friends sister to show up asking for protection but when he's forced to marry her he realizes he's the one in danger... of losing his heart.
None of these guys are heroes, all morally grey, and the girls in the story have their own quiet strength. And while I was totally shocked by some of their actions throughout the stories, in most I enjoyed seeing how their relationships grew and changed. I plan to read more of the series from Hate Vow and Protect Me to see what happens next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
March 9, 2026
Meltdown Monday: Hate to Love by: C. Hallman
This is a dark romance and C. Hallman does these so well! I have loved every book I’ve read by her and this one is no exception. The amount of tears I shed during this book I can’t even count. What I loved is that it’s multiple stories within this book so it takes you on an immersive journey and by the end you can’t and won’t want to leave. These stories especially the first will shatter your heart and soul but builds it up in the most beautiful slow burn of a story.
Wren and Briggs kick off this book and they have a very sad past. Their relationship now is toxic to say the least. But what starts out as a way of getting back at Wren for ruining his life it turns into something very special and saves them both in the end. Briggs is an extremely flawed man but he is what I like to call a toasty marshmallow to his utter shock and that of his biker crew too. Wren goes through such huge transformation in this book that you do not recognize her by the end of it. Seeing her grow gumption was so satisfying.
The emotional arc and growth between both characters felt realistic and not rushed it unfolded naturally.
And each story is just as amazing it will leave you feeling hope after having the meltdown we so love to experience in our reading.
Always check your triggers before starting this book. But if you are like me and you love morally blackish characters, emotional breakdowns brought on by amazing stories and characters, and slow burn enemies to lovers well here is a book of not one but four to devour! And if you want a look behind the book check out my interview with C. Hallman on my podcast!
This is a dark romance and C. Hallman does these so well! I have loved every book I’ve read by her and this one is no exception. The amount of tears I shed during this book I can’t even count. What I loved is that it’s multiple stories within this book so it takes you on an immersive journey and by the end you can’t and won’t want to leave. These stories especially the first will shatter your heart and soul but builds it up in the most beautiful slow burn of a story.
Wren and Briggs kick off this book and they have a very sad past. Their relationship now is toxic to say the least. But what starts out as a way of getting back at Wren for ruining his life it turns into something very special and saves them both in the end. Briggs is an extremely flawed man but he is what I like to call a toasty marshmallow to his utter shock and that of his biker crew too. Wren goes through such huge transformation in this book that you do not recognize her by the end of it. Seeing her grow gumption was so satisfying.
The emotional arc and growth between both characters felt realistic and not rushed it unfolded naturally.
And each story is just as amazing it will leave you feeling hope after having the meltdown we so love to experience in our reading.
Always check your triggers before starting this book. But if you are like me and you love morally blackish characters, emotional breakdowns brought on by amazing stories and characters, and slow burn enemies to lovers well here is a book of not one but four to devour! And if you want a look behind the book check out my interview with C. Hallman on my podcast!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
C. Hallman’s Hate to Love series—The Hate Vow, Hell, Hateful Vows, and Protect Me—is a wild, darkly romantic ride from start to finish. Each story is unique, packed with enemies-to-lovers tension, high-stakes drama, and insanely spicy chemistry 🌶️🌶️🌶️. The characters are complex and flawed, the emotional stakes are real, and the writing pulls you in with vivid detail and engaging dialogue that makes you feel every heartbreak, desire, and betrayal.
The Hate Vow hooked me immediately with Penny and Ryder’s dark, tension-filled dynamic, and a biker gang twist that kept the pages turning. Hell is more fast-paced and intense, set in a high-end BDSM club, with Lucien and Rowen navigating lust, power, and rules—but I wanted a bit more depth to their connection. Hateful Vows hit all the right notes with bully-to-lovers, revenge, and angst, featuring Wren and Briggs in a slow-burn that kept me invested. And Protect Me saved the best for last—mafia romance, intense denial, urgency, and protection with Kiera and Damien had me hooked, and I’m desperate for more of their story.
What makes this series so addictive is how Hallman balances the spice with real emotional weight. Every book builds on the last, and even though they’re quick reads, the characters and stories stick with you. From heartbreak to lust to genuine connection, these books deliver it all.
Highly recommend if you love dark, spicy, emotionally charged romances that keep you reading long past your bedtime. I can’t wait to see what Hallman writes next.
The Hate Vow hooked me immediately with Penny and Ryder’s dark, tension-filled dynamic, and a biker gang twist that kept the pages turning. Hell is more fast-paced and intense, set in a high-end BDSM club, with Lucien and Rowen navigating lust, power, and rules—but I wanted a bit more depth to their connection. Hateful Vows hit all the right notes with bully-to-lovers, revenge, and angst, featuring Wren and Briggs in a slow-burn that kept me invested. And Protect Me saved the best for last—mafia romance, intense denial, urgency, and protection with Kiera and Damien had me hooked, and I’m desperate for more of their story.
What makes this series so addictive is how Hallman balances the spice with real emotional weight. Every book builds on the last, and even though they’re quick reads, the characters and stories stick with you. From heartbreak to lust to genuine connection, these books deliver it all.
Highly recommend if you love dark, spicy, emotionally charged romances that keep you reading long past your bedtime. I can’t wait to see what Hallman writes next.
February 20, 2026
The Hate Vow: Enemies to lovers. Second chance. Dark romance. Ms. Hallman seemed to hit every book button I have. I will tell you, my pleasure was absolutely amazing! A one -sitting read that I was sorry to see end. I am such a Hallman fan, and I continue to be!!! Penny and Ryder will be in my mind for days and weeks to come!!!! Intense, satisfying, dark romance!!!
Hell: Is an age gap romance, including tropes like power play, blackmail, and CNC. After you read this, I don't know that Heaven will be open to you! So kinky! I loved it!
Hateful Vows: Being hurt, terrorized, bullied because of what her mom did? But what about his dad? Seems like it took two to tango. And, perhaps not everything was hunky-dory in Briggs' household before that either! Wren wants to be different. BUT, at what cost to her? I think someone may get really hurt and I'm afraid it might be Wren. I think Briggs is going to be in some serious hurt himself. The path seems like it has a ton of obstacles! Emotional. Scary. Can there be any redemption? Of course, I was hopeful!
Protect Me: I absolutely love dark romances where there should be no hope of the main character falling for the damsel. It makes an HEA all the more satisfying. This is what Ms. Hallman and Ms. Beck did for their readers in this book! There is drama, intensity, steaminess, and a slow and satisfying Love! Damon and Kiera's story was amazing. I will be looking for more from this duo; and will be checking out Ms. Hallman, as this is my first time reading her! This is a must read!
Hell: Is an age gap romance, including tropes like power play, blackmail, and CNC. After you read this, I don't know that Heaven will be open to you! So kinky! I loved it!
Hateful Vows: Being hurt, terrorized, bullied because of what her mom did? But what about his dad? Seems like it took two to tango. And, perhaps not everything was hunky-dory in Briggs' household before that either! Wren wants to be different. BUT, at what cost to her? I think someone may get really hurt and I'm afraid it might be Wren. I think Briggs is going to be in some serious hurt himself. The path seems like it has a ton of obstacles! Emotional. Scary. Can there be any redemption? Of course, I was hopeful!
Protect Me: I absolutely love dark romances where there should be no hope of the main character falling for the damsel. It makes an HEA all the more satisfying. This is what Ms. Hallman and Ms. Beck did for their readers in this book! There is drama, intensity, steaminess, and a slow and satisfying Love! Damon and Kiera's story was amazing. I will be looking for more from this duo; and will be checking out Ms. Hallman, as this is my first time reading her! This is a must read!
February 25, 2026
The Hate Vow:
Briggs and Wren's story is an enemies to lovers bully romance with triggers so if you trigger easily this might not be for you. The writing is good, the characters are well developed and even though it took me a bit to get through this book it is a delicious read.
Hell:
Hell is the second book in the Heaven and Hell series and once again this author duo has given us a captivating read. This is a dark and intense read so if you trigger easily this book isn't for you, but if you like dark, twisted, and intense stories then definitely grab this series. Rowan and Lucian's story pulled me in and didn't let go until the last page.
Hateful Vows:
Briggs and Wren's story is an enemies to lovers bully romance with triggers so if you trigger easily this might not be for you. The writing is good, the characters are well developed and even though it took me a bit to get through this book it is a delicious read. Hateful Vows is book one of the Wicked Falls Elite series.
Protect Me:
Keira is a college student who finds her brother brutally murdered. Her brother Leo told her that if anything ever happened to him she was to go to Damon and he would protect her. This is a gripping, dark romance filled with family drama, danger, suspense, angst, a steamy romance and unexpected twists.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Briggs and Wren's story is an enemies to lovers bully romance with triggers so if you trigger easily this might not be for you. The writing is good, the characters are well developed and even though it took me a bit to get through this book it is a delicious read.
Hell:
Hell is the second book in the Heaven and Hell series and once again this author duo has given us a captivating read. This is a dark and intense read so if you trigger easily this book isn't for you, but if you like dark, twisted, and intense stories then definitely grab this series. Rowan and Lucian's story pulled me in and didn't let go until the last page.
Hateful Vows:
Briggs and Wren's story is an enemies to lovers bully romance with triggers so if you trigger easily this might not be for you. The writing is good, the characters are well developed and even though it took me a bit to get through this book it is a delicious read. Hateful Vows is book one of the Wicked Falls Elite series.
Protect Me:
Keira is a college student who finds her brother brutally murdered. Her brother Leo told her that if anything ever happened to him she was to go to Damon and he would protect her. This is a gripping, dark romance filled with family drama, danger, suspense, angst, a steamy romance and unexpected twists.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 1- The Hate Vow
Meet Penny and Ryder. She is just trying to survive. He is the VP of a motorcycle club. The have an interesting history. The banter between these two is amazing. The flow of the story is fantastic. I could read this again and again..and the ending!!! Read it and find out! Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 2- Hell
Meet Lucian and Rowan. He’s the owner of an exclusive club, yep, that kind of club. She borrowed money from the wrong guy and couldn’t pay. Choices were made- by both of them. The bank and forth is top-notch. I got pulled in from the first lines. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 3- Hateful Vows
Meet Briggs and Wren. He’s untouchable in town- thanks to his family name. She’s a girl from the wrong side of town- and her mother’s reputation hanging over her. Love the interplay between these two. Love how they evolve and the story is well written. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 4- Protect Me
Meet Kiera and Damon. She was told to find him if she ever needed help. He is a boss of the dark and was supposed to protect her and keep his hands off. These pull between these two is explosive. Love the interplay. Love the story. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Meet Penny and Ryder. She is just trying to survive. He is the VP of a motorcycle club. The have an interesting history. The banter between these two is amazing. The flow of the story is fantastic. I could read this again and again..and the ending!!! Read it and find out! Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 2- Hell
Meet Lucian and Rowan. He’s the owner of an exclusive club, yep, that kind of club. She borrowed money from the wrong guy and couldn’t pay. Choices were made- by both of them. The bank and forth is top-notch. I got pulled in from the first lines. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 3- Hateful Vows
Meet Briggs and Wren. He’s untouchable in town- thanks to his family name. She’s a girl from the wrong side of town- and her mother’s reputation hanging over her. Love the interplay between these two. Love how they evolve and the story is well written. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book 4- Protect Me
Meet Kiera and Damon. She was told to find him if she ever needed help. He is a boss of the dark and was supposed to protect her and keep his hands off. These pull between these two is explosive. Love the interplay. Love the story. Spice is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy
I received this as an ARC read 🖤
Hate to Love by C. Hallman (The Hate Vow, Hell, Hateful Vows & Protect Me) was an absolute experience. Every single book delivered insane spice levels 🌶️🌶️🌶️, with descriptions so vivid they had me blushing and clutching my Kindle. But what really sold me was the storytelling—each book had gripping, emotional, beautifully twisted storylines that kept getting better as the series went on. I had literal goosebumps more times than I can count, and these books made me feel everything—anger, heartbreak, desire, hope, all of it. I didn’t want a single one to end because I felt genuinely connected to the characters, which makes choosing a favourite impossible.
My only small heartbreak is at the end of Protect Me, where it’s mentioned that it’s the end of Keira and Damon’s story—because after what we learn at the end, I truly feel like there’s so much more of their lives we could dive into. Still, this series was addictive, emotional, and unforgettable, and I will 100% be inhaling more of C. Hallman’s work. Highly recommend if you like your romance dark, spicy, and emotionally unhinged in the best way.
Hate to Love by C. Hallman (The Hate Vow, Hell, Hateful Vows & Protect Me) was an absolute experience. Every single book delivered insane spice levels 🌶️🌶️🌶️, with descriptions so vivid they had me blushing and clutching my Kindle. But what really sold me was the storytelling—each book had gripping, emotional, beautifully twisted storylines that kept getting better as the series went on. I had literal goosebumps more times than I can count, and these books made me feel everything—anger, heartbreak, desire, hope, all of it. I didn’t want a single one to end because I felt genuinely connected to the characters, which makes choosing a favourite impossible.
My only small heartbreak is at the end of Protect Me, where it’s mentioned that it’s the end of Keira and Damon’s story—because after what we learn at the end, I truly feel like there’s so much more of their lives we could dive into. Still, this series was addictive, emotional, and unforgettable, and I will 100% be inhaling more of C. Hallman’s work. Highly recommend if you like your romance dark, spicy, and emotionally unhinged in the best way.
February 20, 2026
Four Shades of Hate & Heat
If you love your romance dark, messy, and absolutely unhinged in the best way… Besties, this collection is pure obsession fuel. "Hate and Love: Dark Romance Collection" is 4 full-length reads where hatred is basically foreplay... and the tension = Illegal levels of good🤭.
From the revenge-fueled MC chaos (hello enemies to lovers, jail time, and karmic payback) in "The Hate Vow" to the wicked power plays inside a smex club in "Hell" that's built on secrets, the spice is explosive and relentless. Then "Hateful Vows" brings elite college bullying and dangerously unhinged energy, while "Protect Me" serves mafia threats, forced marriage stakes, and off-limits obsession that had me holding my breath 👀.
Every story centers on a couple who can’t stand each other… until they absolutely can’t stay away. The hate-to-love tension across all 4 books was chef’s-kiss-level intense... but dark😏.
Four books in one + Zero spice shortage = TBR-Worthy.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 4/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
If you love your romance dark, messy, and absolutely unhinged in the best way… Besties, this collection is pure obsession fuel. "Hate and Love: Dark Romance Collection" is 4 full-length reads where hatred is basically foreplay... and the tension = Illegal levels of good🤭.
From the revenge-fueled MC chaos (hello enemies to lovers, jail time, and karmic payback) in "The Hate Vow" to the wicked power plays inside a smex club in "Hell" that's built on secrets, the spice is explosive and relentless. Then "Hateful Vows" brings elite college bullying and dangerously unhinged energy, while "Protect Me" serves mafia threats, forced marriage stakes, and off-limits obsession that had me holding my breath 👀.
Every story centers on a couple who can’t stand each other… until they absolutely can’t stay away. The hate-to-love tension across all 4 books was chef’s-kiss-level intense... but dark😏.
Four books in one + Zero spice shortage = TBR-Worthy.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 4/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a collection of four books by C. Hallman : The Hate Vow, Hell, Hateful Vows and Protect Me. Each one of these books is a book within a series. There are so many different tropes such as: a dark bully romance, stepbrother, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance at a sex club, mafia and best friend’s sister. Each story will entertain you and make you eager to read the remaining books in the series. My favorite was the stepbrother romance because Penny was a mess. This is a very angsty book and you will find yourself cheering for this couple who have to occur so many odds in order to be together. You will either love or hate Penny when you realize the things she has done but you will be engrossed in the story. Such a great collection of books.
Read
February 24, 2026This collection includes four standalone stories, and each one pulled me in with its intense, morally gray characters and high-stakes drama. The Hate Vow gave me all the enemy-to-lovers angst I crave, while Hell pushed my limits with its dark power dynamics and twisted club setting. Hateful Vows delivered a brutal bully romance that slowly unraveled into something unexpectedly emotional. And Protect Me wrapped things up with a gripping mafia romance full of danger, betrayal, and fierce devotion. These stories are definitely dark and not for everyone, but I loved the angst, obsession, and hard-earned happily-ever-afters. If you enjoy intense, taboo-leaning romances with dominant heroes, this collection is absolutely worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I picked up Hate to Love: A Dark Romance Collection because I wanted chaos, obsession, and enemies-to-lovers doing the absolute most and yep, it delivered.
The Hate Vow owned me. Ryder is peak broody MC VP menace, Penny is drowning-in-debt and done-with-his-shit, and the tension between them was feral. Real hate, real obsession, zero chill. The spice hit hard without going off the rails.
The rest of the collection keeps that C. Hallman madness rolling possessive, unhinged MMCs, FMCs who bite back, danger everywhere, and vibes that scream “this is probably a bad idea but I’m into it.” Each story had its own flavour
The Hate Vow owned me. Ryder is peak broody MC VP menace, Penny is drowning-in-debt and done-with-his-shit, and the tension between them was feral. Real hate, real obsession, zero chill. The spice hit hard without going off the rails.
The rest of the collection keeps that C. Hallman madness rolling possessive, unhinged MMCs, FMCs who bite back, danger everywhere, and vibes that scream “this is probably a bad idea but I’m into it.” Each story had its own flavour
February 21, 2026
I really like the four stories. They are full of suspense, spice, action and romance. The women are a mix of characters from feisty and angry, whilst others are more gentle and in need of protection. The men are all morally grey and some are darker shades than others, but all are interesting characters.
I like all four stories, but two are standouts for me; One is The Hate Vow and the other is Protect Me. You couldn’t get two more different FMCs if you tried, but both are compelling characters and in need of assistance. I love the banter and the challenges and how the MMCs realise that they have something more infinitely precious to fight for.
These are such entertaining reads!
I like all four stories, but two are standouts for me; One is The Hate Vow and the other is Protect Me. You couldn’t get two more different FMCs if you tried, but both are compelling characters and in need of assistance. I love the banter and the challenges and how the MMCs realise that they have something more infinitely precious to fight for.
These are such entertaining reads!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. The collection includes four unique stories, each built around a different trope, yet all sharing that addictive enemies‑to‑lovers energy. Even though the stories are quick reads, it’s incredibly easy to slip into each world and get invested in the characters right away. The pacing feels smooth, the chemistry is fun, and every story leaves you wanting just a little bit more. It’s the perfect pick if you love short, engaging romances that still manage to deliver depth and charm.
Review of advance copy
HATE VOW
Penny and Ryder' story.
HELL
Lucien and Rowan's story.
HATEFUL VOWS
Briggs and Wren's story.
PROTECT ME
Damon and Keira
4 books in 1 collection!
I feel like we get a little bit of everything within the stories. Tropes like.... dark romance, bully, enemies to lovers, MC, boss.
The plots were intriguing and the main characters fit perfectly.
We got action, danger, secrets, drama, emotional moments, tension, spice, and much more!
This was definitely a must read collection!!
Penny and Ryder' story.
HELL
Lucien and Rowan's story.
HATEFUL VOWS
Briggs and Wren's story.
PROTECT ME
Damon and Keira
4 books in 1 collection!
I feel like we get a little bit of everything within the stories. Tropes like.... dark romance, bully, enemies to lovers, MC, boss.
The plots were intriguing and the main characters fit perfectly.
We got action, danger, secrets, drama, emotional moments, tension, spice, and much more!
This was definitely a must read collection!!
Review of advance copy
This was an absolutely amazing collection. From book one to book four, I was totally invested. These packed everything you hope to read in a dark romance, and made these spectacular. Enemies to lovers, bullying, morally grey…and so much more. Once I got started, I didn’t want to stop until I reached the end. Each story held its own heat, its own intensity, and great characters. All of these were wonderfully written. And the twists and turns had me turning the pages like wildfire. This is my first time reading this author and it definitely won’t be my last.
February 22, 2026
Hate and Love is a wonderfully written dark romance collection of four stories. It is an amazing way to read this author's stories. They are packed with action and romance.
With this collection you get a little bit of everything including motorcycle club, bully, enemies to lovers, and boss stories. The stories are wonderful and the characters are so well-written. This is a collection you will read over and over again. The spice is off the charts.
I look forward to more stories in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With this collection you get a little bit of everything including motorcycle club, bully, enemies to lovers, and boss stories. The stories are wonderful and the characters are so well-written. This is a collection you will read over and over again. The spice is off the charts.
I look forward to more stories in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2026
This is a dark romance collection with four full-length standalones by this author. These entertaining stories feature hot alpha heroes and their spirited heroines. Each story has a unique storyline, peppered with drama, angst, action, excitement, craziness, steam, and a happy ending. These page turners will keep you engaged from the first page to the last. An absolute bargain for the countless hours of enjoyment that it will provide.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Being a fan of Hallman, Thai story did not disappoint! It’s a pretty quick and fluid book, especially with all the tension and drama that unfolds. I did question the MC, being “different” from the loyalties and priorities usually put on the old ladies, but eventually just chopped it up to them just being different. Book did not disappoint! Characters were complex but still relatable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2026
4 Dark Romance Books in one??? YES PLEASE!
I really enjoyed these stories, each one unique but just as dark and morally grey! If you are not a Dark Romance reader, Check the trigger warnings!
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about multiple short"er" stories in one book but I liked it alot! I am pretty obsessed with Ryder I must say :) I recommend this collection to all the dark romance girlies! Enjoy!
ARC Review, Thank you BookSirens
I really enjoyed these stories, each one unique but just as dark and morally grey! If you are not a Dark Romance reader, Check the trigger warnings!
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about multiple short"er" stories in one book but I liked it alot! I am pretty obsessed with Ryder I must say :) I recommend this collection to all the dark romance girlies! Enjoy!
ARC Review, Thank you BookSirens
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