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Ashenheart #1
Heart of a Killer
An addictive dark romance about a vigilante with blood on his hands and the woman he'll burn the world down to keep.
Cassius Ashenheart isn't looking for redemption. He's the man people call when justice fails—a weapon forged by his family's sins. His world is brotherhood, violence, and brutal secrets. Love doesn't fit a life built on quiet retribution.
Melinda Westbrook edits fictional killers for a living. Real danger stays safely on the page—until a wrong-number text and a terrifying encounter force a stranger to step in and pretend to be her husband.
Cassius should walk away. Instead, one act of protection turns into late-night messages, a dangerous bond, and a marriage that blurs the line between safety and obsession. The more he shields Melinda from the monsters in his world, the more he wants to keep her—close, claimed, and completely his. But when the threat circling her ties back to his own bloody past, he has to decide what he's willing to sacrifice.
His brothers. His code. Or the woman who makes the killer in him feel almost human.
If you’re searching for a dark romance with a vigilante hero who’ll put his blade between you and the world, Heart of a Killer belongs on your shelf.
Perfect for readers who love Rina Kent and LJ Shen, and who want:
Dark romance and gritty romantic suspense
A morally gray, protective, possessive antihero
Wrong-number romance that spirals into obsession
Marriage of convenience/marriage of protection
Found family and brotherhood in a violent world
Spice with high emotional stakes and raw, brutal feelings
This is romance for the ones who’ve been through hell—the wounded, the wild, and the ones who stay.
Cassius Ashenheart isn't looking for redemption. He's the man people call when justice fails—a weapon forged by his family's sins. His world is brotherhood, violence, and brutal secrets. Love doesn't fit a life built on quiet retribution.
Melinda Westbrook edits fictional killers for a living. Real danger stays safely on the page—until a wrong-number text and a terrifying encounter force a stranger to step in and pretend to be her husband.
Cassius should walk away. Instead, one act of protection turns into late-night messages, a dangerous bond, and a marriage that blurs the line between safety and obsession. The more he shields Melinda from the monsters in his world, the more he wants to keep her—close, claimed, and completely his. But when the threat circling her ties back to his own bloody past, he has to decide what he's willing to sacrifice.
His brothers. His code. Or the woman who makes the killer in him feel almost human.
If you’re searching for a dark romance with a vigilante hero who’ll put his blade between you and the world, Heart of a Killer belongs on your shelf.
Perfect for readers who love Rina Kent and LJ Shen, and who want:
Dark romance and gritty romantic suspense
A morally gray, protective, possessive antihero
Wrong-number romance that spirals into obsession
Marriage of convenience/marriage of protection
Found family and brotherhood in a violent world
Spice with high emotional stakes and raw, brutal feelings
This is romance for the ones who’ve been through hell—the wounded, the wild, and the ones who stay.
- GenresDark Romance
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Did Not Finish
August 31, 2026This unfortunately was a DNF for me. I really wanted to love it, but the writing style, and the extremely unlikely coincidences, feelings, and advancements just didn't feel feasible to me and kept pulling me out of the story.
September 2, 2026
Well… Cassius is definitely a man you probably shouldn’t fall for, but I can see why Melinda did 😂
This was such a dark and intense read. Cassius is brutal, possessive and definitely not your usual romance hero, but I really liked the way his relationship with Melinda developed. It starts off with a wrong number and somehow ends up turning into so much more.
There’s plenty of spice, but also quite a lot of emotion and some seriously messed-up situations along the way. I liked that Melinda wasn’t just there to be rescued either, and seeing Cassius slowly let his guard down was probably one of my favourite parts.
Cassius is definitely morally grey (okay, maybe darker than grey 😂), but there’s something about the way he protects Melinda that got me.
The story kept me interested, there was plenty of drama and tension, and I definitely found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next.
If you like dark romance with possessive, dangerous men, lots of spice and a bit of obsession thrown in, then this is definitely one for you.
Not my usual cup of tea… but I enjoyed it more than I expected to! 🖤
This was such a dark and intense read. Cassius is brutal, possessive and definitely not your usual romance hero, but I really liked the way his relationship with Melinda developed. It starts off with a wrong number and somehow ends up turning into so much more.
There’s plenty of spice, but also quite a lot of emotion and some seriously messed-up situations along the way. I liked that Melinda wasn’t just there to be rescued either, and seeing Cassius slowly let his guard down was probably one of my favourite parts.
Cassius is definitely morally grey (okay, maybe darker than grey 😂), but there’s something about the way he protects Melinda that got me.
The story kept me interested, there was plenty of drama and tension, and I definitely found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next.
If you like dark romance with possessive, dangerous men, lots of spice and a bit of obsession thrown in, then this is definitely one for you.
Not my usual cup of tea… but I enjoyed it more than I expected to! 🖤
August 9, 2026
*arc reader*
3.5, im gonna be honest the ending saved this book for me. Dont get me wrong the book definitely had parts that were good but it wasnt very cohesive if that makes sense? I feel like there was just too much going on at once and at some parts not enough words to explain exactly what was going on during it. I am curious of where exactly London is and loved the brothers so I will for sure keep going just hope as the books progress it will be easier to follow and understand. Thank you so much for the arc!
3.5, im gonna be honest the ending saved this book for me. Dont get me wrong the book definitely had parts that were good but it wasnt very cohesive if that makes sense? I feel like there was just too much going on at once and at some parts not enough words to explain exactly what was going on during it. I am curious of where exactly London is and loved the brothers so I will for sure keep going just hope as the books progress it will be easier to follow and understand. Thank you so much for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles grabbed my attention much faster than I expected. The synopsis was enough to make me curious, but once I reached the opening chapter, I was completely pulled into the story. This was my first experience with Shalana Battles, and it definitely won't be my last because by the time I finished, I was already invested in finding out where this world goes next.
At the center are Cassius, known as the Machine, and Melinda, or Lindy, two people who seem as though they should never have crossed paths.
Cassius has spent years surrounded by violence and has accepted killing as part of his existence. Control is important to him, and getting inside his head was one of my favorite parts of the book. His profession has clearly shaped the way he thinks, reacts, and approaches other people, and I found his internal perspective fascinating. There is a coldness to him, but there are also layers beneath that dangerous exterior that made me want to understand him rather than simply label him as a villain.
Lindy is coming from an entirely different place. She's an editor who has left her old life behind and is trying to establish some kind of fresh start. Then one accidental message puts her in Cassius's orbit, and suddenly the quiet life she was trying to build becomes anything but predictable.
I really liked that their relationship wasn't an immediate attraction followed by happily-ever-after. There is fear, uncertainty, suspicion, and a constant awareness that Cassius's world is dangerous. Lindy has every reason to be cautious, while Cassius has to figure out what this unexpected woman means to him. Their connection develops through circumstances that force them to rely on one another, and I thought that made the romance much more believable.
The alternating first-person perspectives worked particularly well here. Seeing events through both Cassius and Melinda's eyes gives the reader information that neither character necessarily has on their own. We get access to their private thoughts, fears, motivations, and decisions, which gradually creates a much fuller picture of what's happening.
Cassius was probably the character who fascinated me most. His need for control, his relationship with violence, and the way his mind processes everything made his chapters especially compelling. He's morally questionable in plenty of ways, but that's part of what makes him so interesting. I could understand why Lindy would be simultaneously attracted to him and deeply wary of what becoming involved with him could mean.
Lindy took a little longer to fully click for me. At times, I wasn't sure what to make of her, but the more the story progressed, the more that started to make sense. She changes considerably throughout the book. The woman who begins the story simply wanting to escape her past doesn't remain the same person. Everything she experiences forces her to become tougher, more confident, and much more aware of what she's capable of.
That character growth was one of my favorite elements. By the end, I was looking at Lindy very differently, and I have a feeling the version of her we see going forward is going to be even more interesting.
The suspense also kept me hooked. There was a constant sense that something could go wrong, and I never felt completely comfortable assuming I knew where the story was heading. The darker elements fit naturally into the world, while the emotional tension between Cassius and Lindy gave the danger a much more personal edge.
What really worked for me was the balance between the romance and everything surrounding it. This isn't simply a story about two people falling for each other. It's about survival, trust, protection, fear, and figuring out whether you can allow another person close when doing so could put everything at risk.
I finished Heart of a Killer feeling like I had only scratched the surface of this world. Shalana Battles gave me characters who are complicated enough to keep me thinking about them after closing the book, especially Cassius and Lindy.
Overall, this was an intense and absorbing dark romance with a dangerous hero, a heroine who undergoes some fantastic growth, strong suspense, and a relationship that develops through much more than simple attraction.
I'm officially invested now. I need to know what comes next for Cassius, Melinda/Lindy, and everyone else caught up in this dangerous world. If you enjoy morally complicated characters, darker romance, suspense, dangerous circumstances, and relationships built through trust and survival, this is definitely one to check out.
At the center are Cassius, known as the Machine, and Melinda, or Lindy, two people who seem as though they should never have crossed paths.
Cassius has spent years surrounded by violence and has accepted killing as part of his existence. Control is important to him, and getting inside his head was one of my favorite parts of the book. His profession has clearly shaped the way he thinks, reacts, and approaches other people, and I found his internal perspective fascinating. There is a coldness to him, but there are also layers beneath that dangerous exterior that made me want to understand him rather than simply label him as a villain.
Lindy is coming from an entirely different place. She's an editor who has left her old life behind and is trying to establish some kind of fresh start. Then one accidental message puts her in Cassius's orbit, and suddenly the quiet life she was trying to build becomes anything but predictable.
I really liked that their relationship wasn't an immediate attraction followed by happily-ever-after. There is fear, uncertainty, suspicion, and a constant awareness that Cassius's world is dangerous. Lindy has every reason to be cautious, while Cassius has to figure out what this unexpected woman means to him. Their connection develops through circumstances that force them to rely on one another, and I thought that made the romance much more believable.
The alternating first-person perspectives worked particularly well here. Seeing events through both Cassius and Melinda's eyes gives the reader information that neither character necessarily has on their own. We get access to their private thoughts, fears, motivations, and decisions, which gradually creates a much fuller picture of what's happening.
Cassius was probably the character who fascinated me most. His need for control, his relationship with violence, and the way his mind processes everything made his chapters especially compelling. He's morally questionable in plenty of ways, but that's part of what makes him so interesting. I could understand why Lindy would be simultaneously attracted to him and deeply wary of what becoming involved with him could mean.
Lindy took a little longer to fully click for me. At times, I wasn't sure what to make of her, but the more the story progressed, the more that started to make sense. She changes considerably throughout the book. The woman who begins the story simply wanting to escape her past doesn't remain the same person. Everything she experiences forces her to become tougher, more confident, and much more aware of what she's capable of.
That character growth was one of my favorite elements. By the end, I was looking at Lindy very differently, and I have a feeling the version of her we see going forward is going to be even more interesting.
The suspense also kept me hooked. There was a constant sense that something could go wrong, and I never felt completely comfortable assuming I knew where the story was heading. The darker elements fit naturally into the world, while the emotional tension between Cassius and Lindy gave the danger a much more personal edge.
What really worked for me was the balance between the romance and everything surrounding it. This isn't simply a story about two people falling for each other. It's about survival, trust, protection, fear, and figuring out whether you can allow another person close when doing so could put everything at risk.
I finished Heart of a Killer feeling like I had only scratched the surface of this world. Shalana Battles gave me characters who are complicated enough to keep me thinking about them after closing the book, especially Cassius and Lindy.
Overall, this was an intense and absorbing dark romance with a dangerous hero, a heroine who undergoes some fantastic growth, strong suspense, and a relationship that develops through much more than simple attraction.
I'm officially invested now. I need to know what comes next for Cassius, Melinda/Lindy, and everyone else caught up in this dangerous world. If you enjoy morally complicated characters, darker romance, suspense, dangerous circumstances, and relationships built through trust and survival, this is definitely one to check out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles
I went into this expecting a dark romance, but it ended up giving me so much more than I expected. The action starts almost immediately and gets right into the plot, which I loved. There really wasn’t much waiting around for something to happen—I was hooked pretty quickly.
The wrong-number setup between Cassius and Melinda/Lindy was such a fun way to bring them together, and their relationship ended up being my favorite part of the book.
Cassius
Cassius is dangerous, ruthless, morally gray, and very aware of exactly what kind of person he is. He has spent so much of his life surrounded by violence that it feels completely normal to him, which made being inside his head really interesting. He can be cold and calculated, but the second Lindy enters his life, you start seeing these little cracks in that exterior.
And I am an absolute sucker for a “mine, don’t touch” MMC, so obviously Cassius worked for me. 😂 His protectiveness kicks in almost immediately, and once he decides Lindy is someone he cares about, there is really no going back for him. I loved that contrast between the man everyone else should probably be terrified of and the version of him that comes out around her.
He is definitely not a good guy in the traditional sense, but that is part of what made him so fun to read. He is possessive, intense, dangerous, and morally questionable, but there are enough layers underneath all of that to make you want to understand him instead of just writing him off as the villain.
Melinda/Lindy
Lindy is almost the complete opposite of Cassius when we first meet her. She is more cautious, anxious, and trying to create a quieter life for herself after leaving her past behind. I liked that she didn’t suddenly become fearless just because she met him. She is very aware that Cassius is dangerous and that being connected to him could completely change her life.
What I really loved about Lindy was her character growth. She goes through so much throughout the story, and you slowly start to see her become stronger, more confident, and more willing to stand up for herself. She still feels like the same person, but by the end there is this tougher version of her starting to emerge.
I also liked that she questioned Cassius and didn’t blindly accept everything about him. Their differences are what make the relationship interesting. She brings out a softer, more protective side of him, while being thrown into his world forces her to discover what she is actually capable of.
Cassius + Lindy
Together, they just worked for me. Their relationship develops through fear, trust, survival, attraction, and Cassius basically deciding very early on that Lindy is his to protect. Again…my weakness. 😂
I liked that there was still hesitation and uncertainty between them. Lindy has every reason to be wary of him, and Cassius has to figure out what it means to suddenly care this much about another person. Their connection felt strongest when the story leaned into that contrast—her trying to understand his world and him realizing he would do pretty much anything to keep her safe.
I also wasn’t expecting the little paranormal element, but I loved that it was included. It added another layer to the world without completely taking over the dark romance and suspense, and it made me even more curious about what else is going on beneath the surface.
The pacing was another huge win for me. The action starts almost instantly and gets right into the plot, so I never felt like I was waiting forever for the story to actually begin.
The only thing keeping this from a full 5 stars was that I would have liked a little more buildup in a few of the romantic moments. Some things moved slightly faster than I expected, but it didn’t stop me from flying through the book.
Overall, this was such an addictive read. Fast-paced, dark, suspenseful, a little paranormal, and featuring exactly the type of possessive morally gray MMC I apparently cannot resist.
4.5 stars ⭐️ — I’m officially invested in Cassius, Lindy, and whatever comes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles
I went into this expecting a dark romance, but it ended up giving me so much more than I expected. The action starts almost immediately and gets right into the plot, which I loved. There really wasn’t much waiting around for something to happen—I was hooked pretty quickly.
The wrong-number setup between Cassius and Melinda/Lindy was such a fun way to bring them together, and their relationship ended up being my favorite part of the book.
Cassius
Cassius is dangerous, ruthless, morally gray, and very aware of exactly what kind of person he is. He has spent so much of his life surrounded by violence that it feels completely normal to him, which made being inside his head really interesting. He can be cold and calculated, but the second Lindy enters his life, you start seeing these little cracks in that exterior.
And I am an absolute sucker for a “mine, don’t touch” MMC, so obviously Cassius worked for me. 😂 His protectiveness kicks in almost immediately, and once he decides Lindy is someone he cares about, there is really no going back for him. I loved that contrast between the man everyone else should probably be terrified of and the version of him that comes out around her.
He is definitely not a good guy in the traditional sense, but that is part of what made him so fun to read. He is possessive, intense, dangerous, and morally questionable, but there are enough layers underneath all of that to make you want to understand him instead of just writing him off as the villain.
Melinda/Lindy
Lindy is almost the complete opposite of Cassius when we first meet her. She is more cautious, anxious, and trying to create a quieter life for herself after leaving her past behind. I liked that she didn’t suddenly become fearless just because she met him. She is very aware that Cassius is dangerous and that being connected to him could completely change her life.
What I really loved about Lindy was her character growth. She goes through so much throughout the story, and you slowly start to see her become stronger, more confident, and more willing to stand up for herself. She still feels like the same person, but by the end there is this tougher version of her starting to emerge.
I also liked that she questioned Cassius and didn’t blindly accept everything about him. Their differences are what make the relationship interesting. She brings out a softer, more protective side of him, while being thrown into his world forces her to discover what she is actually capable of.
Cassius + Lindy
Together, they just worked for me. Their relationship develops through fear, trust, survival, attraction, and Cassius basically deciding very early on that Lindy is his to protect. Again…my weakness. 😂
I liked that there was still hesitation and uncertainty between them. Lindy has every reason to be wary of him, and Cassius has to figure out what it means to suddenly care this much about another person. Their connection felt strongest when the story leaned into that contrast—her trying to understand his world and him realizing he would do pretty much anything to keep her safe.
I also wasn’t expecting the little paranormal element, but I loved that it was included. It added another layer to the world without completely taking over the dark romance and suspense, and it made me even more curious about what else is going on beneath the surface.
The pacing was another huge win for me. The action starts almost instantly and gets right into the plot, so I never felt like I was waiting forever for the story to actually begin.
The only thing keeping this from a full 5 stars was that I would have liked a little more buildup in a few of the romantic moments. Some things moved slightly faster than I expected, but it didn’t stop me from flying through the book.
Overall, this was such an addictive read. Fast-paced, dark, suspenseful, a little paranormal, and featuring exactly the type of possessive morally gray MMC I apparently cannot resist.
4.5 stars ⭐️ — I’m officially invested in Cassius, Lindy, and whatever comes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2026
▪️Contemporary
▪️Romantic suspense
▪️Dark romance
▪️Mafia
▪️A morally gray, protective, possessive antihero
▪️Haunted Heroine
▪️Stalker
▪️He Falls First
▪️Wrong-Number
▪️Marriage of Protection / Convenience
▪️Found Family
▪️Touch Her and Die
▪️Obsessive / Possessive hero
▪️Opposites Attract
▪️Slow-Burn
▪️Hidden secrets and mystery
▪️Fun cast of supporting characters
▪️Engaging / riveting / gripping / gritty / addictive storyline
▪️Page turner / suspenseful / fast paced
I am completely, utterly obsessed with this book. Heart of a Killer completely ruined me in the best possible way, and I’m pretty sure Cassius Ashenheart has become one of my top book boyfriends of all time. Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles is a dark, gritty, and dangerously addictive romantic suspense that delivers a brilliantly fresh, innovative take on the "wrong number" trope. If you’re a dark romance and romantic suspense reader who LOVES touch her and die energy and a morally gray antihero who will literally burn the world down to protect his woman, this book needs to be on your TBR immediately.
The premise alone completely hooked me: Melinda is this quiet, relatable book editor who literally reads about fictional killers for a living, and she accidentally texts Cassius—a hardened, real-life vigilante assassin—on a burner phone. The chemistry and anticipation during their late-night texting phase built up so much delicious slow-burn tension, but once a sudden twist of danger forces them into a high-stakes, forced-marriage-for-protection scenario set in the underground of Las Vegas things get beautifully unhinged and there is absolutely no turning back.
Cassius Ashenheart is a lethal, real-world vigilante assassin operating deep within the criminal underground. Cassius is a morally gray antihero who is feral, unhinged, and feared. However, beneath his brutal exterior lies a deeply possessive protector who falls first, hard, and fast. His intense willingness to burn the entire world down just to keep her safe gave me pure, dark romance perfection.
Melinda Westbrook: She is a quiet, relatable, and fiercely independent book editor who handles stories about fictional serial killers for a living. Though her everyday life is ordinary, she possesses an underlying emotional strength and resilience that allows her to navigate the chaotic, dangerous world when danger strikes.
What makes their bond so fascinating is how it walks the line between absolute danger and safety. Melinda handles fictional monsters for work, but Cassius is the first real nightmare who actually makes her feel safe and protected. Their connection builds on a deep, underlying emotional trust that neither of them saw coming. It feels almost magnetic with a subtle, eerie atmosphere that makes their meeting feel entirely like fate. There is a beautiful, raw emotional conflict beneath Cassius's terrifying exterior as he struggles to let Melinda in. Melinda challenges him and reminds him to be human. It's about two guarded people rewriting each other's worlds.
Shalana Battles completely knocked it out of the park with this one. It is an unputdownable 5-star read that completely consumed me from the very first page and left me with a massive book hangover and a desperate need for more.
▪️Romantic suspense
▪️Dark romance
▪️Mafia
▪️A morally gray, protective, possessive antihero
▪️Haunted Heroine
▪️Stalker
▪️He Falls First
▪️Wrong-Number
▪️Marriage of Protection / Convenience
▪️Found Family
▪️Touch Her and Die
▪️Obsessive / Possessive hero
▪️Opposites Attract
▪️Slow-Burn
▪️Hidden secrets and mystery
▪️Fun cast of supporting characters
▪️Engaging / riveting / gripping / gritty / addictive storyline
▪️Page turner / suspenseful / fast paced
I am completely, utterly obsessed with this book. Heart of a Killer completely ruined me in the best possible way, and I’m pretty sure Cassius Ashenheart has become one of my top book boyfriends of all time. Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles is a dark, gritty, and dangerously addictive romantic suspense that delivers a brilliantly fresh, innovative take on the "wrong number" trope. If you’re a dark romance and romantic suspense reader who LOVES touch her and die energy and a morally gray antihero who will literally burn the world down to protect his woman, this book needs to be on your TBR immediately.
The premise alone completely hooked me: Melinda is this quiet, relatable book editor who literally reads about fictional killers for a living, and she accidentally texts Cassius—a hardened, real-life vigilante assassin—on a burner phone. The chemistry and anticipation during their late-night texting phase built up so much delicious slow-burn tension, but once a sudden twist of danger forces them into a high-stakes, forced-marriage-for-protection scenario set in the underground of Las Vegas things get beautifully unhinged and there is absolutely no turning back.
Cassius Ashenheart is a lethal, real-world vigilante assassin operating deep within the criminal underground. Cassius is a morally gray antihero who is feral, unhinged, and feared. However, beneath his brutal exterior lies a deeply possessive protector who falls first, hard, and fast. His intense willingness to burn the entire world down just to keep her safe gave me pure, dark romance perfection.
Melinda Westbrook: She is a quiet, relatable, and fiercely independent book editor who handles stories about fictional serial killers for a living. Though her everyday life is ordinary, she possesses an underlying emotional strength and resilience that allows her to navigate the chaotic, dangerous world when danger strikes.
What makes their bond so fascinating is how it walks the line between absolute danger and safety. Melinda handles fictional monsters for work, but Cassius is the first real nightmare who actually makes her feel safe and protected. Their connection builds on a deep, underlying emotional trust that neither of them saw coming. It feels almost magnetic with a subtle, eerie atmosphere that makes their meeting feel entirely like fate. There is a beautiful, raw emotional conflict beneath Cassius's terrifying exterior as he struggles to let Melinda in. Melinda challenges him and reminds him to be human. It's about two guarded people rewriting each other's worlds.
Shalana Battles completely knocked it out of the park with this one. It is an unputdownable 5-star read that completely consumed me from the very first page and left me with a massive book hangover and a desperate need for more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was immediately intrigued by the synopsis of Heart of a Killer, but the first chapter was what really pulled me in. This was my first book by Shalana Battles. After finishing it, I can definitely say I’m invested in this world and need to know what happens next.
Cassius, aka the Machine, and Melinda, aka Lindy, could not be more different. Cassius has built his life around violence and has accepted that killing is simply part of who he is. Lindy is an ordinary editor who has moved away to start over and build a new life for herself. Then one accidental message connects these two completely different people and pulls Lindy into a world she never expected to be part of.
What I really enjoyed was that their relationship didn’t feel like an instant romance. Their connection develops under pressure, with fear, hesitation, protectiveness, and plenty of hard truths along the way. Trust and survival are just as important to their relationship as their attraction, and I liked watching them slowly figure out what they mean to each other while knowing that getting closer could put them both in danger.
The pacing worked really well for me, and the tension continued to build without feeling forced. There were plenty of moments where I found myself holding my breath and wondering what was going to happen next. Cassius has that morally gray, dangerous quality that makes it easy to understand why Lindy is both drawn to him and afraid of what being connected to him could mean.
I especially enjoyed Lindy’s character development. She starts the story as someone simply trying to leave her old life behind, but everything she experiences changes her. By the end, there is a strength and fire in her that wasn’t there before, and I’m very interested to see where that takes her. I have a feeling the woman who emerges from everything she has survived is going to be a force to be reckoned with.
Shalana Battles has a way of writing that kept me emotionally invested. The story had me tense, anxious, and completely absorbed in what was happening. I found myself thinking about the characters even after putting the book down, which is always a good sign for me.
Overall, Heart of a Killer was a gripping, emotional dark romance with strong characters, plenty of tension, and a storyline that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I absolutely devoured this book, and I’m officially invested in this series. I need to see what happens next, especially with Lindy, Cassius, and the world they’ve been pulled into.
Highly recommend if you enjoy dark romance, morally gray characters, dangerous worlds, intense emotional tension, and romances built around trust, survival, and protection.
Cassius, aka the Machine, and Melinda, aka Lindy, could not be more different. Cassius has built his life around violence and has accepted that killing is simply part of who he is. Lindy is an ordinary editor who has moved away to start over and build a new life for herself. Then one accidental message connects these two completely different people and pulls Lindy into a world she never expected to be part of.
What I really enjoyed was that their relationship didn’t feel like an instant romance. Their connection develops under pressure, with fear, hesitation, protectiveness, and plenty of hard truths along the way. Trust and survival are just as important to their relationship as their attraction, and I liked watching them slowly figure out what they mean to each other while knowing that getting closer could put them both in danger.
The pacing worked really well for me, and the tension continued to build without feeling forced. There were plenty of moments where I found myself holding my breath and wondering what was going to happen next. Cassius has that morally gray, dangerous quality that makes it easy to understand why Lindy is both drawn to him and afraid of what being connected to him could mean.
I especially enjoyed Lindy’s character development. She starts the story as someone simply trying to leave her old life behind, but everything she experiences changes her. By the end, there is a strength and fire in her that wasn’t there before, and I’m very interested to see where that takes her. I have a feeling the woman who emerges from everything she has survived is going to be a force to be reckoned with.
Shalana Battles has a way of writing that kept me emotionally invested. The story had me tense, anxious, and completely absorbed in what was happening. I found myself thinking about the characters even after putting the book down, which is always a good sign for me.
Overall, Heart of a Killer was a gripping, emotional dark romance with strong characters, plenty of tension, and a storyline that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I absolutely devoured this book, and I’m officially invested in this series. I need to see what happens next, especially with Lindy, Cassius, and the world they’ve been pulled into.
Highly recommend if you enjoy dark romance, morally gray characters, dangerous worlds, intense emotional tension, and romances built around trust, survival, and protection.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay, Cassius Ashenheart is absolutely unhinged… and somehow I was completely on board. 😂🖤
Heart of a Killer gave me the exact combination of dark romance and suspense I was hoping for: a morally questionable, ridiculously protective hero, a heroine who gets dragged into a world she never asked for, a slow-burn relationship, family secrets and enough danger to keep things moving.
Melinda was probably my favourite surprise. She’s introduced as this quiet book editor who spends her days working with fictional killers, which makes the irony of her ending up entangled with a very real one pretty perfect. I liked watching her gradually find her footing instead of simply becoming “the woman the hero protects.” She has her own journey, and that made her much easier to root for.
And then there’s Cassius.
This man has zero chill when it comes to Melinda. 😂 His protective instincts border on obsession, but what worked for me was that underneath all that darkness, there’s a real emotional conflict. He’s torn between the life he’s built, his loyalty to his brothers and the woman who makes him question the rules he’s lived by.
The romance is a slow burn, and I actually think that was the right choice. Their connection develops through conversations, danger, trust and gradually increasing attraction rather than feeling like an instant switch was flipped.
I also really enjoyed the found-family/brotherhood element. The Ashenheart brothers bring another layer to the story, and their relationships made the world feel bigger than just Cassius and Melinda.
The pacing takes a little time to settle in at the beginning, but once the pieces start connecting, I was properly invested. The prose is straightforward and emotionally focused, which worked well for the story, and the suspense kept giving the romance something bigger to push against.
What really worked for me was the balance. It’s dark, but there are softer moments. It’s violent, but there’s vulnerability underneath it. And for all Cassius’s “I’ll destroy anyone who threatens you” energy, the story is ultimately about trust, identity and learning to let someone see the parts of you you’d rather keep hidden.
Would I trust Cassius in real life? Absolutely not.
Would I like him fictional? Very much yes. 😂
A strong start to the Ashenheart series, and I’m definitely curious about those brothers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heart of a Killer is an addictive, brooding dark romance that sinks its teeth in from the very first page. Cassius Ashenheart is the kind of vigilante hero who feels carved out of violence and loyalty — a man shaped by his family’s sins, by brotherhood, by the brutal code he’s lived under for years. Redemption isn’t something he’s looking for, and love certainly isn’t part of the life he’s built. That tension gives the novel its pulse: a killer who has never imagined softness suddenly confronted with the one woman who makes him hesitate.
Melinda Westbrook is a brilliant contrast to him — an editor who spends her days polishing fictional killers, safely removed from real danger until a wrong‑number text and a terrifying encounter pull her into Cassius’s orbit. Their first meeting is electric in the most dangerous way, and the author handles the shift from protection to obsession with a deft, slow‑burn intensity. Late‑night messages, a marriage of convenience that feels anything but, and a bond that grows sharper and more intimate with every chapter — it’s the kind of dynamic that keeps you reading long past bedtime.
Cassius is a standout dark‑romance hero: possessive without losing his humanity, violent without being cartoonish, and fiercely protective in a way that feels both terrifying and tender. The more he shields Melinda from the monsters in his world, the more he wants to claim her as his own. And when the threat circling her ties back to his bloody past, the story takes on a deeper emotional weight. His choices — his brothers, his code, his loyalty — all collide with the one person who makes him feel almost human.
The writing is sharp, atmospheric, and emotionally charged, balancing danger with vulnerability in a way that feels genuinely compelling. The romance is dark but never gratuitous, rooted in character rather than shock value, and the tension between safety and obsession is handled with a steady, confident hand.
Intense, addictive, and beautifully twisted, Heart of a Killer is perfect for readers who love vigilante heroes, dangerous devotion, and dark romances where the man will burn the world down to keep the woman he loves.
with thanks to Shalana Battles, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Melinda Westbrook is a brilliant contrast to him — an editor who spends her days polishing fictional killers, safely removed from real danger until a wrong‑number text and a terrifying encounter pull her into Cassius’s orbit. Their first meeting is electric in the most dangerous way, and the author handles the shift from protection to obsession with a deft, slow‑burn intensity. Late‑night messages, a marriage of convenience that feels anything but, and a bond that grows sharper and more intimate with every chapter — it’s the kind of dynamic that keeps you reading long past bedtime.
Cassius is a standout dark‑romance hero: possessive without losing his humanity, violent without being cartoonish, and fiercely protective in a way that feels both terrifying and tender. The more he shields Melinda from the monsters in his world, the more he wants to claim her as his own. And when the threat circling her ties back to his bloody past, the story takes on a deeper emotional weight. His choices — his brothers, his code, his loyalty — all collide with the one person who makes him feel almost human.
The writing is sharp, atmospheric, and emotionally charged, balancing danger with vulnerability in a way that feels genuinely compelling. The romance is dark but never gratuitous, rooted in character rather than shock value, and the tension between safety and obsession is handled with a steady, confident hand.
Intense, addictive, and beautifully twisted, Heart of a Killer is perfect for readers who love vigilante heroes, dangerous devotion, and dark romances where the man will burn the world down to keep the woman he loves.
with thanks to Shalana Battles, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay, Cassius Ashenheart has officially entered the “morally questionable men I will defend despite overwhelming evidence” section of my brain.
Heart of a Killer had me hooked. It gave me everything I want when I pick up a dark romance: danger, obsession, suspense, found family, a possessive MMC, and that delicious “touch her and you’re dead” energy.
Cassius is absolutely not a good man—and the book doesn't try to convince us that he is. He's violent, dangerous, fiercely loyal, and completely comfortable operating outside the law. But watching this man, who has built his entire life around violence and protecting others, slowly realize that Melinda has become his person? THAT got me.
And Melinda! I loved that she wasn't just there to be protected. She's smart, funny, and strong enough to stand beside Cassius while still having very real reactions to the insanity surrounding her.
The wrong-number setup was such a fun way to bring them together, but once the protective-husband situation entered the chat, I was DONE. Their relationship quickly becomes intense, possessive, messy, and addictive in exactly the way I want a dark romance to be.
I also really loved the brotherhood and found-family aspect of this story. The relationships outside of the romance gave the book so much more depth and made me genuinely invested in these characters beyond Cassius and Melinda.
Was Cassius unhinged? Yes.
Did he occasionally make choices that would have me telling a friend to change her number, move states, and possibly enter witness protection?
Also yes.
Did I love him anyway?
Unfortunately, YES.
Dark, gritty, spicy, suspenseful, and completely bingeable. If you love morally black heroes, obsessive protectiveness, marriage of protection, found family, and men whose love language is essentially “tell me who hurt you,” put Heart of a Killer on your TBR.
Now I need the next book because apparently I've become emotionally attached to an entire family of dangerous men.
Heart of a Killer had me hooked. It gave me everything I want when I pick up a dark romance: danger, obsession, suspense, found family, a possessive MMC, and that delicious “touch her and you’re dead” energy.
Cassius is absolutely not a good man—and the book doesn't try to convince us that he is. He's violent, dangerous, fiercely loyal, and completely comfortable operating outside the law. But watching this man, who has built his entire life around violence and protecting others, slowly realize that Melinda has become his person? THAT got me.
And Melinda! I loved that she wasn't just there to be protected. She's smart, funny, and strong enough to stand beside Cassius while still having very real reactions to the insanity surrounding her.
The wrong-number setup was such a fun way to bring them together, but once the protective-husband situation entered the chat, I was DONE. Their relationship quickly becomes intense, possessive, messy, and addictive in exactly the way I want a dark romance to be.
I also really loved the brotherhood and found-family aspect of this story. The relationships outside of the romance gave the book so much more depth and made me genuinely invested in these characters beyond Cassius and Melinda.
Was Cassius unhinged? Yes.
Did he occasionally make choices that would have me telling a friend to change her number, move states, and possibly enter witness protection?
Also yes.
Did I love him anyway?
Unfortunately, YES.
Dark, gritty, spicy, suspenseful, and completely bingeable. If you love morally black heroes, obsessive protectiveness, marriage of protection, found family, and men whose love language is essentially “tell me who hurt you,” put Heart of a Killer on your TBR.
Now I need the next book because apparently I've become emotionally attached to an entire family of dangerous men.
August 9, 2026
Okay, I’m just going to say it: I am a sucker for a good mafia/organized crime romance. 😂 So it probably wasn’t hard for this book to get my attention—but Heart of a Killer had me hooked from the beginning.
I absolutely loved the connection between the MMC and FMC. What surprised me most was how much chemistry I could feel between them even during their initial interactions through text messages. Their chemistry was 🔥, and once they were together, I was completely invested in them.
Was the pacing a little rushed in places? Yes. But honestly, that didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed this story.
What I especially appreciated was the larger story happening beneath the romance. The book shines a light on sex trafficking and the people working behind the scenes to dismantle the networks that allow it to continue. I really loved that the story gave weight to that subject without losing the romance at its center.
And the MMC? Give me a man who says, “I’ll burn the world down for you,” but also teaches you how to take care of yourself. 👏🏼 I loved that dynamic. Their chemistry was insane, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
And I have to talk about the ghosts. 👻 At first, I was a little confused, but by the end, I really loved the layer it added to the story and the way it connected the characters to a larger legacy. It was such an interesting element that I didn’t know I needed.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book. I’m genuinely excited about where this series is going, and I cannot wait to see what comes next. If this is the beginning of the series, I have a feeling we’re in for a GOOD ride.
I was provided an ARC by Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
I absolutely loved the connection between the MMC and FMC. What surprised me most was how much chemistry I could feel between them even during their initial interactions through text messages. Their chemistry was 🔥, and once they were together, I was completely invested in them.
Was the pacing a little rushed in places? Yes. But honestly, that didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed this story.
What I especially appreciated was the larger story happening beneath the romance. The book shines a light on sex trafficking and the people working behind the scenes to dismantle the networks that allow it to continue. I really loved that the story gave weight to that subject without losing the romance at its center.
And the MMC? Give me a man who says, “I’ll burn the world down for you,” but also teaches you how to take care of yourself. 👏🏼 I loved that dynamic. Their chemistry was insane, and I was rooting for them the entire time.
And I have to talk about the ghosts. 👻 At first, I was a little confused, but by the end, I really loved the layer it added to the story and the way it connected the characters to a larger legacy. It was such an interesting element that I didn’t know I needed.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book. I’m genuinely excited about where this series is going, and I cannot wait to see what comes next. If this is the beginning of the series, I have a feeling we’re in for a GOOD ride.
I was provided an ARC by Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2026
digital ARC was provided by Netgalley and publisher!
The first half had me, the second half...not so much lol.
Synopsis
Melinda's wrong-number text drag her into real danger by coincidentally sending her text to Cassius. Cassius was supposed to be her protector, but their fake marriage quickly turns into something much more obsessive, especially when Melinda's danger turns out to be connected to his violent past.
Commentary
I reaallly liked the first half of this one. Cassius is obsessive in exactly the way I enjoy, and the fake marriage/protector setup had me hooked. But somewhere around the second half, I started struggling. The descriptions became a little too much for me and there were moments where I had to stop and think about what exactly was happening. It wasn't that I didn't understand the story, more that the writing itself started making things harder to follow than they needed to be.
I also wasn't completely sold on some of Cassius's actions in the second half because his obsession started feeling less consistent with the character I'd gotten to know earlier. There were also a few plot threads, like Melinda learning to fight, that I wasn't quite sure what to do with because I didn't feel like they connected as strongly to the bigger story as I expected. And there are A LOT of characters and connections introduced here, to the point where I wasn't always sure whether I was supposed to know these people already or if this was setting up a much bigger world. Still, the Ashenheart bunch definitely caught my interest, so I'm curious enough to continue with the series.
The first half had me, the second half...not so much lol.
Synopsis
Melinda's wrong-number text drag her into real danger by coincidentally sending her text to Cassius. Cassius was supposed to be her protector, but their fake marriage quickly turns into something much more obsessive, especially when Melinda's danger turns out to be connected to his violent past.
Commentary
I reaallly liked the first half of this one. Cassius is obsessive in exactly the way I enjoy, and the fake marriage/protector setup had me hooked. But somewhere around the second half, I started struggling. The descriptions became a little too much for me and there were moments where I had to stop and think about what exactly was happening. It wasn't that I didn't understand the story, more that the writing itself started making things harder to follow than they needed to be.
I also wasn't completely sold on some of Cassius's actions in the second half because his obsession started feeling less consistent with the character I'd gotten to know earlier. There were also a few plot threads, like Melinda learning to fight, that I wasn't quite sure what to do with because I didn't feel like they connected as strongly to the bigger story as I expected. And there are A LOT of characters and connections introduced here, to the point where I wasn't always sure whether I was supposed to know these people already or if this was setting up a much bigger world. Still, the Ashenheart bunch definitely caught my interest, so I'm curious enough to continue with the series.
September 2, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to storm publishing for sending me a copy to read and review
Heart of a killer is dark and dangerous romance with a bit of chaos thrown in. If you aren’t a fan of violence or gore when it comes to men then definitely avoid this one because this book had it all.
Cassius the MMC is addictive as a character. It is so hard to get dark romance men right and i definitely think the author done a great job with showing us his obsessive ‘burn the world for her’ / ‘touch her and die’ vibes towards Melinda.
Melinda the FMC, god the poor girl definitely didn’t expect Cassius to be how he is and he definitely isn’t someone you should ever be with but I can see the appeal. Poor Melinda edits those fictional men by day and accidentally sends a text to a wrong number…and yes you guessed with…it was dark and dangerous Cassius.
I LOVED the dynamic between these two, trying to figure out if the romance for me is sweet and romantic or borderline crazy and obsessive was actually quite fun, almost had me thinking…do I really like this for ME?!! And let me say, probably not, but it was a lot of fun to read about.
Despite focusing on the romance as the main plot there is such a fun world built around the main characters, trouble and dark pasts, violent memories and a found family dynamic, the brotherhood. I can definitely see where this world is going to take us and I am so looking forward to it.
A really enjoyable dark romance but be warned…it does get violent and Gorey. Not for everyone.
Thank you to storm publishing for sending me a copy to read and review
Heart of a killer is dark and dangerous romance with a bit of chaos thrown in. If you aren’t a fan of violence or gore when it comes to men then definitely avoid this one because this book had it all.
Cassius the MMC is addictive as a character. It is so hard to get dark romance men right and i definitely think the author done a great job with showing us his obsessive ‘burn the world for her’ / ‘touch her and die’ vibes towards Melinda.
Melinda the FMC, god the poor girl definitely didn’t expect Cassius to be how he is and he definitely isn’t someone you should ever be with but I can see the appeal. Poor Melinda edits those fictional men by day and accidentally sends a text to a wrong number…and yes you guessed with…it was dark and dangerous Cassius.
I LOVED the dynamic between these two, trying to figure out if the romance for me is sweet and romantic or borderline crazy and obsessive was actually quite fun, almost had me thinking…do I really like this for ME?!! And let me say, probably not, but it was a lot of fun to read about.
Despite focusing on the romance as the main plot there is such a fun world built around the main characters, trouble and dark pasts, violent memories and a found family dynamic, the brotherhood. I can definitely see where this world is going to take us and I am so looking forward to it.
A really enjoyable dark romance but be warned…it does get violent and Gorey. Not for everyone.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this one! ❤️
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles is such an intriguing read, with a storyline that pulls you into the minds of two very different characters. I really enjoyed the way the story is told in first person from both Cassius and Melinda’s perspectives. It works so well because we get to experience the story through both of their eyes and understand their thoughts, motivations and decisions.
Cassius was definitely the character I found most fascinating. Getting inside his head and seeing the inner workings of his mind, his career and his constant need for control added so much depth to the story. His career clearly has a huge impact on the way he thinks and the choices he makes, and I found myself really interested in understanding what drives him.
Melinda took a little longer for me to connect with. I found her quite strange at times, but I think that is very much intentional and part of what makes her character so interesting. As the story progresses, she really starts to grow into herself, and I enjoyed watching that development.
There’s a great mix of suspense, darker themes, complicated characters and plenty to keep you questioning where the story is going. I especially enjoyed how the two perspectives slowly give you a bigger picture of what is happening.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and thought-provoking read, and I’m definitely intrigued to see where Cassius and Melinda’s stories go from here!
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles is such an intriguing read, with a storyline that pulls you into the minds of two very different characters. I really enjoyed the way the story is told in first person from both Cassius and Melinda’s perspectives. It works so well because we get to experience the story through both of their eyes and understand their thoughts, motivations and decisions.
Cassius was definitely the character I found most fascinating. Getting inside his head and seeing the inner workings of his mind, his career and his constant need for control added so much depth to the story. His career clearly has a huge impact on the way he thinks and the choices he makes, and I found myself really interested in understanding what drives him.
Melinda took a little longer for me to connect with. I found her quite strange at times, but I think that is very much intentional and part of what makes her character so interesting. As the story progresses, she really starts to grow into herself, and I enjoyed watching that development.
There’s a great mix of suspense, darker themes, complicated characters and plenty to keep you questioning where the story is going. I especially enjoyed how the two perspectives slowly give you a bigger picture of what is happening.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and thought-provoking read, and I’m definitely intrigued to see where Cassius and Melinda’s stories go from here!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heart of a Killer was a dark, compulsively readable story that made for a surprisingly easy escape. Cassius is a morally gray, mafia-style MMC with strong Dexter energy, while Lindy is intelligent, sharp-witted and just self-sabotaging enough to continually complicate her own life. The dual perspective worked especially well, giving both characters distinct voices and allowing their individual motivations to shine.
Although the book is decidedly spicy, the dark romance itself felt fairly subtle. The violence, however, can be brutal at times, and I do think the story would benefit from more comprehensive trigger warnings.
My main hesitation was the pacing of the relationship. Their connection develops with an intensity that borders on instant love, so the romance never felt quite as natural or earned as I wanted it to. Oddly enough, I found myself more invested in Cassius and Lindy as individuals than I was in them as a couple, despite their relationship being the heart of the story.
I understood why Cassius was so suspicious of Lindy’s revelation, especially considering the dangerous and deeply paranoid world he inhabits. Still, it was frustrating to watch her finally feel safe enough to be vulnerable, only for him to refuse to believe her.
This isn’t the type of book I would normally reach for, but it was fast-paced, engaging and undeniably entertaining. An easy four-star read.
Although the book is decidedly spicy, the dark romance itself felt fairly subtle. The violence, however, can be brutal at times, and I do think the story would benefit from more comprehensive trigger warnings.
My main hesitation was the pacing of the relationship. Their connection develops with an intensity that borders on instant love, so the romance never felt quite as natural or earned as I wanted it to. Oddly enough, I found myself more invested in Cassius and Lindy as individuals than I was in them as a couple, despite their relationship being the heart of the story.
I understood why Cassius was so suspicious of Lindy’s revelation, especially considering the dangerous and deeply paranoid world he inhabits. Still, it was frustrating to watch her finally feel safe enough to be vulnerable, only for him to refuse to believe her.
This isn’t the type of book I would normally reach for, but it was fast-paced, engaging and undeniably entertaining. An easy four-star read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heart of a Killer had me hooked almost immediately. It’s gripping, suspenseful, and emotionally intense, with fast paced action that pulled me straight into Cassius and Melinda’s world.
The dual POV worked incredibly well for me. Being inside both of their heads gave me a better understanding of who they were individually, their motivations, vulnerabilities, and the choices driving them forward. Neither feels simple or predictable, and I became genuinely invested in discovering where their paths would lead.
What I loved most was the slow burn. Their relationship is given room to develop, so the intimacy never feels rushed or based solely on attraction. Every shift between them feels earned, making the softer interactions especially meaningful against the danger surrounding them.
There’s also an emotional quality to the prose that I wasn’t expecting. The darker elements are balanced beautifully with tenderness and vulnerability, creating scenes that completely wrecked me in the best way. One moment I was caught up in the tension, and the next I was feeling far more than I anticipated.
Complicated characters, genuine chemistry, high stakes, morally questionable choices, and just enough softness beneath all that brutality; this one gave me everything I want from a dark romance. Cassius and Melinda completely won me over.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC.
The dual POV worked incredibly well for me. Being inside both of their heads gave me a better understanding of who they were individually, their motivations, vulnerabilities, and the choices driving them forward. Neither feels simple or predictable, and I became genuinely invested in discovering where their paths would lead.
What I loved most was the slow burn. Their relationship is given room to develop, so the intimacy never feels rushed or based solely on attraction. Every shift between them feels earned, making the softer interactions especially meaningful against the danger surrounding them.
There’s also an emotional quality to the prose that I wasn’t expecting. The darker elements are balanced beautifully with tenderness and vulnerability, creating scenes that completely wrecked me in the best way. One moment I was caught up in the tension, and the next I was feeling far more than I anticipated.
Complicated characters, genuine chemistry, high stakes, morally questionable choices, and just enough softness beneath all that brutality; this one gave me everything I want from a dark romance. Cassius and Melinda completely won me over.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a hard read for me because of the love-hate relationship I had with the book. I genuinely wondered if it was written by AI for a while. I felt it was trying too hard to portray Cassius as evil, although we know that he is by the fact that he actually kills people. His obsession with Melinda is a lot! I get that he felt a connection with the mysterious woman on the other side of the text he received by mistake. Maybe he’s super lonely and looking for a human connection, even though he would never admit it.
I liked the supernatural aspect of Melinda and her ghosts, and I think who the ghosts are added a layer to the book. I admired her telling Cassius that she sees ghosts, even though he didn’t believe her and thought she was trying to trick him. She was waaaay too forgiving of him being a major jerk about this. I saw Melinda as a weak person based on how she moved from London to get away from her boss and her friend blowing her off. The fact she had a list of things to do to get braver was an indicator of how scared she was. That being said, she grew into her own and became a tough woman.
What saved this book was the ending when Melinda and Cassius came face-to-face with the leader of Spiderweb and the resultant capture and rescue. I will read the second book because I am invested in the London storyline and I do want to see what happens with Sava and Adrian.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the supernatural aspect of Melinda and her ghosts, and I think who the ghosts are added a layer to the book. I admired her telling Cassius that she sees ghosts, even though he didn’t believe her and thought she was trying to trick him. She was waaaay too forgiving of him being a major jerk about this. I saw Melinda as a weak person based on how she moved from London to get away from her boss and her friend blowing her off. The fact she had a list of things to do to get braver was an indicator of how scared she was. That being said, she grew into her own and became a tough woman.
What saved this book was the ending when Melinda and Cassius came face-to-face with the leader of Spiderweb and the resultant capture and rescue. I will read the second book because I am invested in the London storyline and I do want to see what happens with Sava and Adrian.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What happens when the man everyone fears becomes obsessed with protecting the one woman he never expected to need?
Heart of a Killer had me hooked from the very first chapter. Cassius is everything I want in a morally gray hero: ruthless, dangerous, fiercely protective, and completely unapologetic about who he is. Watching his relationship with Melinda develop as layer after layer of his hardened exterior was peeled back made this impossible to put down.
The wrong-number text is one of my favorite relationship dynamics, and it was executed so well here. Add in a marriage-of-protection, nonstop tension, and plenty of suspense, and I was completely invested from beginning to end. The chemistry between Cassius and Melinda is undeniable, and the emotional moments add depth that goes far beyond the romance.
I also loved the Ashenheart brotherhood. The family loyalty, action, and mystery surrounding the other brothers left me excited to see where this series goes next.
If you're a fan of Butcher & Blackbird, Lights Out, possessive antiheroes, wrong-number romances, forced proximity, and dark romantic suspense with plenty of spice, this absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heart of a Killer had me hooked from the very first chapter. Cassius is everything I want in a morally gray hero: ruthless, dangerous, fiercely protective, and completely unapologetic about who he is. Watching his relationship with Melinda develop as layer after layer of his hardened exterior was peeled back made this impossible to put down.
The wrong-number text is one of my favorite relationship dynamics, and it was executed so well here. Add in a marriage-of-protection, nonstop tension, and plenty of suspense, and I was completely invested from beginning to end. The chemistry between Cassius and Melinda is undeniable, and the emotional moments add depth that goes far beyond the romance.
I also loved the Ashenheart brotherhood. The family loyalty, action, and mystery surrounding the other brothers left me excited to see where this series goes next.
If you're a fan of Butcher & Blackbird, Lights Out, possessive antiheroes, wrong-number romances, forced proximity, and dark romantic suspense with plenty of spice, this absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 30, 2026
Thank you Net Galley and Storm Publishing for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions listed are my own.
The storyline overall was good and it wrapped up nicely in the end while still dangling a little to keep the reader intrigued for book 2. It was surprisingly pretty low spice for a dark romance. I’d almost go as far to say it’s borderline closed-door. Although spice level is subjective so others may disagree. It just felt like the spice was glossed over.
Unfortunately this book just wasn’t for me though. I personally didn’t care for the writing style. There were parts of the book where I wished there was more description, sometimes it felt like I was missing a big chunk of information and was confused on what was happening, and then other parts where I felt like the description was too detailed and long-winded on something that felt unimportant.
There were a couple continuity issues too. For example, on the very first page of the book, in the first couple sentences, it starts with the MMC saying he cried when he killed his father, so it was a pretty memorable statement, but later in the book he mentions killing his father again and how he didn’t even cry when he did it.
The storyline overall was good and it wrapped up nicely in the end while still dangling a little to keep the reader intrigued for book 2. It was surprisingly pretty low spice for a dark romance. I’d almost go as far to say it’s borderline closed-door. Although spice level is subjective so others may disagree. It just felt like the spice was glossed over.
Unfortunately this book just wasn’t for me though. I personally didn’t care for the writing style. There were parts of the book where I wished there was more description, sometimes it felt like I was missing a big chunk of information and was confused on what was happening, and then other parts where I felt like the description was too detailed and long-winded on something that felt unimportant.
There were a couple continuity issues too. For example, on the very first page of the book, in the first couple sentences, it starts with the MMC saying he cried when he killed his father, so it was a pretty memorable statement, but later in the book he mentions killing his father again and how he didn’t even cry when he did it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay, this book absolutely STOLE me.
Literally!
For the last 28 ish hours, I could not put my iPad down and stop reading.
The entire beginning gave me Under your scars vibes for sure - But as I continued through the story, it sent me through a whole new perspective in the dark romance genre.
I gotta say, Cassius teaching Melinda got me in the gut. In all of the dark romance books I've read, I've never had the importance be so much as this with the training her to be ready, smart, and vigilant.
The ghost seeing definitely took me on a turn, I for sure thought it was going to be some type of realistic hallucinations disorder or something explainable - but nope. Which was a twist I didn't seem coming.
But side note, can we all find us a significant other that will literally burn the world down for us like he would because like, damn. #goals.
This book had everything from dark romance, to crime, to general lovey dovey romance, to hackers and city histories, to just ahhhh amazing. Thats what this book is.
Definitely cannot wait for for book two!
Literally!
For the last 28 ish hours, I could not put my iPad down and stop reading.
The entire beginning gave me Under your scars vibes for sure - But as I continued through the story, it sent me through a whole new perspective in the dark romance genre.
I gotta say, Cassius teaching Melinda got me in the gut. In all of the dark romance books I've read, I've never had the importance be so much as this with the training her to be ready, smart, and vigilant.
The ghost seeing definitely took me on a turn, I for sure thought it was going to be some type of realistic hallucinations disorder or something explainable - but nope. Which was a twist I didn't seem coming.
But side note, can we all find us a significant other that will literally burn the world down for us like he would because like, damn. #goals.
This book had everything from dark romance, to crime, to general lovey dovey romance, to hackers and city histories, to just ahhhh amazing. Thats what this book is.
Definitely cannot wait for for book two!
September 2, 2026
I love a good dark, romantic suspense story and this book fit the bill. Cassius Ashenheart is a morally gray antihero who doesn't expect to ever find love. After all, his world is full of violence and blood. He does the dirty work so his brothers can remain clean.
Melinda Westbrook is an editor who had to leave a job she loved and moved to Las Vegas to work for a smaller company. She feels awkward around most people. But when she unwittingly sends a text to a wrong number, she ends up flirting and getting to know the man she texted.
The story is filled with suspense and danger. Once Cassius starts to fall for Lindy girl, he becomes obsessed and very protective. There is a great bond among the brothers and they know when to push each others' buttons and when to back off. I loved that it wasn't an instant love connection between Cassius and Melinda, and seeing how his feelings strengthened over time.
This is the first book I've read by this author. I absolutely loved this story and am looking forward to rest of the series.
Melinda Westbrook is an editor who had to leave a job she loved and moved to Las Vegas to work for a smaller company. She feels awkward around most people. But when she unwittingly sends a text to a wrong number, she ends up flirting and getting to know the man she texted.
The story is filled with suspense and danger. Once Cassius starts to fall for Lindy girl, he becomes obsessed and very protective. There is a great bond among the brothers and they know when to push each others' buttons and when to back off. I loved that it wasn't an instant love connection between Cassius and Melinda, and seeing how his feelings strengthened over time.
This is the first book I've read by this author. I absolutely loved this story and am looking forward to rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Received as an ARC through Netgalley to read and review, this is an honest review.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for the pre - approval to read this book.
Heart of a Killer is fire, ice and truly spectacular and author Shalana Battles has crafted masterpiece that I hope becomes a bestseller.
An all consuming romance that begins as a accident for Cassius and Melinda... and deeper their passion grows, the darker the danger becomes as Melinda sees the feral world that Cassius survives in - a stalker that kills those that've earned to die. And beneath it all is a man that Melinda loves and is scared of at the same as she navigates a labyrinth of the rawest secrets that can burn the whole world down.
Blessed with cheeky wit and charm and characters that come off the page to draw you in to their stories... Heart of a Killer is the romance that captivate your time.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for the pre - approval to read this book.
Heart of a Killer is fire, ice and truly spectacular and author Shalana Battles has crafted masterpiece that I hope becomes a bestseller.
An all consuming romance that begins as a accident for Cassius and Melinda... and deeper their passion grows, the darker the danger becomes as Melinda sees the feral world that Cassius survives in - a stalker that kills those that've earned to die. And beneath it all is a man that Melinda loves and is scared of at the same as she navigates a labyrinth of the rawest secrets that can burn the whole world down.
Blessed with cheeky wit and charm and characters that come off the page to draw you in to their stories... Heart of a Killer is the romance that captivate your time.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Heart of a Killer is a dark romance with a dash of mafias, obsession, and grit. The relationship between Melinda and Cassius was my favourite part of the reading experience. Their first meeting is memorable and made me laugh. Readers will get a chance to see them grow and develop throughout the plot. I think that this world is expansive and there are many areas unanswered (possibly for future books) and the side characters make me wonder if they'll be featured in their own books. I was a little taken off guard with the paranormal twist in this world but found myself liking its inclusion further in the book. Overall, I think this book is an excellent introduction to a world that I want to read more about.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Received as an arc from NetGalley.
Sometimes it feels like if you've read one mafia dark romance you've read them all. He's bad, she's good and somehow they get together either by choice or force. And yes this one had those aspects, but it also added
Sometimes it feels like if you've read one mafia dark romance you've read them all. He's bad, she's good and somehow they get together either by choice or force. And yes this one had those aspects, but it also added
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐3.75
*I recieved this book as an ARC, but all opinions are my own*
This book started and ended so strong. It immediately pulled me in and wanted me to read more. The middle becomes a little confusing since it feels like it's jumping around a little but and not explaining some things very well. There was so many things that happened that I wished we knew more about, like London! Where is London? It felt like we touched a lot about her but didn't get any answers so I'm hoping we find out later on. What this book does have is characters you are going to fall in love with! Seriously every character that was introduced I adored! I hope we get books about his brothers because I love them and I need to read more bout them!
*I recieved this book as an ARC, but all opinions are my own*
This book started and ended so strong. It immediately pulled me in and wanted me to read more. The middle becomes a little confusing since it feels like it's jumping around a little but and not explaining some things very well. There was so many things that happened that I wished we knew more about, like London! Where is London? It felt like we touched a lot about her but didn't get any answers so I'm hoping we find out later on. What this book does have is characters you are going to fall in love with! Seriously every character that was introduced I adored! I hope we get books about his brothers because I love them and I need to read more bout them!
August 24, 2026
Well I just found myself another book boyfriend. This story follows Cassius Ashenheart and the Accord Empire. After receiving a text from a wrong number, Melina enters his world. The world in question? He’s a vigilante killer trying to take down an underground crime organization.
This is one of the best mafia-esque novels I have read yet. I loved everything about the characters, the details, and the plot line. I need the next one as soon as possible!
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a protective antihero, found family, and vigilantism.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the author for letting me be part of this arc. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
This is one of the best mafia-esque novels I have read yet. I loved everything about the characters, the details, and the plot line. I need the next one as soon as possible!
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a protective antihero, found family, and vigilantism.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the author for letting me be part of this arc. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a really engaging dark romance and I loved the way Melinda & Cassius "met". I don't think I've ever read a book with a "wrong number" trope before so this was a refreshing change from the norm. Although I really liked these two as a couple, I felt like their intimacy was slightly too fast just based on their interactions beforehand. I didn't feel the buildup or the tension between them and when it happened it felt a little abrupt. Other than that I really enjoyed getting to know these character and I think the story was great.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2026
Heart of a Killer by Shalana Battles — ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have to say, I am so beyond invested in this series! This was my first time reading Shalana Battles, and she absolutely hooked me. The plot, the storyline, the twists, and—most importantly—the siblings had me completely invested from beginning to end.
There is something about this family dynamic that just pulls you in, and now I NEED MORE. I’m already attached to these characters and cannot wait to see where the story goes next. If this is what I can expect from this author and series, I am officially along for the ride!
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
I have to say, I am so beyond invested in this series! This was my first time reading Shalana Battles, and she absolutely hooked me. The plot, the storyline, the twists, and—most importantly—the siblings had me completely invested from beginning to end.
There is something about this family dynamic that just pulls you in, and now I NEED MORE. I’m already attached to these characters and cannot wait to see where the story goes next. If this is what I can expect from this author and series, I am officially along for the ride!
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
I absolutely loved this dark mafia type romance. The feral MMC that is only a golden retriever for her never gets old. I loved how this story unfolds. A wrong number text!??! Really!?? I loved that both Lindy and Cassius had to come into their own before they could be good together- and the secrets that unfold between them are amazing! I love that the author showcases their character flaws and uses them to push the story forward and their quirks are used to bring them together instead of tear them apart. I need to learn more about the brothers and what happened to London- so I will definitely be continuing this series.
I absolutely loved this dark mafia type romance. The feral MMC that is only a golden retriever for her never gets old. I loved how this story unfolds. A wrong number text!??! Really!?? I loved that both Lindy and Cassius had to come into their own before they could be good together- and the secrets that unfold between them are amazing! I love that the author showcases their character flaws and uses them to push the story forward and their quirks are used to bring them together instead of tear them apart. I need to learn more about the brothers and what happened to London- so I will definitely be continuing this series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5!
I live for a good wrong-number moment. Especially with the mafia setting. Cassius and Melinda shared a connection, and once Cassius decided Lindy was his, it was done for.
They built a relationship in dangerous moments, forced trust, and then got to know the other in a deeper sense.
While the dark vibe was present, it did feel more like we were being told Cassius was dark, more than by seeing him be callous. And that paranormal element threw me off, not in the best way.
The ending was intriguing and did help me like this book better, but I'm not sure I'll continue with this series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm, and the author for this ARC!
I live for a good wrong-number moment. Especially with the mafia setting. Cassius and Melinda shared a connection, and once Cassius decided Lindy was his, it was done for.
They built a relationship in dangerous moments, forced trust, and then got to know the other in a deeper sense.
While the dark vibe was present, it did feel more like we were being told Cassius was dark, more than by seeing him be callous. And that paranormal element threw me off, not in the best way.
The ending was intriguing and did help me like this book better, but I'm not sure I'll continue with this series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm, and the author for this ARC!
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