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Heroine Hearts: Darkness Made These Heroine Hearts
HEROIN
hɛrəʊɪn
noun
-a highly addictive analgesic drug derived from morphine, often used illicitly as a narcotic producing euphoria.
HEROINE
hɛrəʊɪn
noun
-a woman admired for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.
He saw me as one.
I became addicted to the other.
He saw us as forever.
I saw our love story as bittersweet.
Why?
Simple.
It was all caused by one thing - total, abominable darkness.
But that was what we loved the most.
After all, darkness made these heroine hearts.
**This is a dark romance, due to the subject material within the book. Heroine Heart is advised for readers of a mature nature and not suitable for any readers under 18. Read at your own discretion.
Use of tough subject matter includes rape, substance abuse, and violence.**
hɛrəʊɪn
noun
-a highly addictive analgesic drug derived from morphine, often used illicitly as a narcotic producing euphoria.
HEROINE
hɛrəʊɪn
noun
-a woman admired for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.
He saw me as one.
I became addicted to the other.
He saw us as forever.
I saw our love story as bittersweet.
Why?
Simple.
It was all caused by one thing - total, abominable darkness.
But that was what we loved the most.
After all, darkness made these heroine hearts.
**This is a dark romance, due to the subject material within the book. Heroine Heart is advised for readers of a mature nature and not suitable for any readers under 18. Read at your own discretion.
Use of tough subject matter includes rape, substance abuse, and violence.**
- GenresDarkContemporary Romance
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2016
3 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty-Anne Still
21 books214 followersKirsty-Anne Still is the writer of angsty and dark (and sometimes both) romance. She got lost in writing during her last years of school and eventually got pulled into the publishing industry during university, forfeiting her idea of being a teacher for writing, and eventually designing.
Kirsty is an author and book cover designer from England who will probably make one too many sarcastic comments in her life, preaches positive affirmations a lot, and believes it’s a bad day rather than a bad life.
Book Kirsty’s written to date:
-Heroine Hearts
-Sweet Venom
The Pericolo Series:
-Femme Fatale (#1)
-Maverick (#1.5)
-Femme Fatale Reloaded (#2)
-Femme Fatale Loved (#3)
-Femme Fatale Finale (#4)
-Trigger (Standalone)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 20, 2016
This book is twisted and beautiful at the same time...It’s not an easy book to get through and definitely isn’t “light” reading.
Isla has been kidnapped by a drug cartel. She’s heavily abused, badly tortured and used as a sex toy and a drug mule. From the first moment of her meeting with Javier, he makes it plain he likes and desires her. Soon Javier will prove her that an attraction this hot is worth all the risks…
The author is able to convict a lot of raw emotion in very few words. I’m always drawn and intrigued by books that deal with real human problems and emotion. This book scared me a little bit on what drugs do to you. This is a seriously sad, very raw, and very emotional story. You really fall in love with each character and the way the author writes, you just feel like you're descending to rock bottom with them!
Why 4 stars? Because the ending was an enormous let-down for me. The book was perfect until the ending kind of ruined it. I didn’t find it impressive, it was simply disappointing.
Overall, the book is as audacious as it is dark and sensual. For that alone, this book is a must read.
Isla has been kidnapped by a drug cartel. She’s heavily abused, badly tortured and used as a sex toy and a drug mule. From the first moment of her meeting with Javier, he makes it plain he likes and desires her. Soon Javier will prove her that an attraction this hot is worth all the risks…
The author is able to convict a lot of raw emotion in very few words. I’m always drawn and intrigued by books that deal with real human problems and emotion. This book scared me a little bit on what drugs do to you. This is a seriously sad, very raw, and very emotional story. You really fall in love with each character and the way the author writes, you just feel like you're descending to rock bottom with them!
Why 4 stars? Because the ending was an enormous let-down for me. The book was perfect until the ending kind of ruined it. I didn’t find it impressive, it was simply disappointing.
Overall, the book is as audacious as it is dark and sensual. For that alone, this book is a must read.
February 10, 2016
Let me start by saying WOW and ending it with WHAT THE F**K.
This whole story has kept me hooked since the very first page and I absolutely loved it. Kirsty has yet again blown me away with another incredible book. It's left me feeling so incredibly emotional, more emotional than ever. Just as I was getting my hopes up for Isla and Javier she demolished them but oh my god.
Isla's character was incredible, after everything she goes through she's still incredibly strong even though she only sees herself as week. She's a survivor, a survivor of all the pain and torture she endures from the cartel that has stolen her from her life and took every bit of hope she had.
Javier character is a strong and interesting, you can't help but love him. He's so caring towards Isla and the other girls in this awful situation and wants to do right by them.
The storyline was so amazing, it kept my interested. I never thought I'd feel the devastation that I'm feeling right now for a book but I just can't help it, that ending was so incredibly sad and it ripped my heart out, thanks for the Kirsty haha. Heroine Hearts is definitely one of my favourite reads, the detail and emotion put into is amazing. I can't wait for others to read it.
This story is dark, like eating a heart dark lmao. So this most definitely isn't suitable for anyone under 18.
This whole story has kept me hooked since the very first page and I absolutely loved it. Kirsty has yet again blown me away with another incredible book. It's left me feeling so incredibly emotional, more emotional than ever. Just as I was getting my hopes up for Isla and Javier she demolished them but oh my god.
Isla's character was incredible, after everything she goes through she's still incredibly strong even though she only sees herself as week. She's a survivor, a survivor of all the pain and torture she endures from the cartel that has stolen her from her life and took every bit of hope she had.
Javier character is a strong and interesting, you can't help but love him. He's so caring towards Isla and the other girls in this awful situation and wants to do right by them.
The storyline was so amazing, it kept my interested. I never thought I'd feel the devastation that I'm feeling right now for a book but I just can't help it, that ending was so incredibly sad and it ripped my heart out, thanks for the Kirsty haha. Heroine Hearts is definitely one of my favourite reads, the detail and emotion put into is amazing. I can't wait for others to read it.
This story is dark, like eating a heart dark lmao. So this most definitely isn't suitable for anyone under 18.
May 23, 2016
This book is gritty, dark and a standalone.
I started it one night and finished it first thing the next morning.
This book consumed me. It sucked me right in.
A night out finds Isla drugged, kidnapped and held captive. My heart bled for Isla. Can she really go through any more pain and heartache?
When Javier enters her life she starts second guessing everything she was forced to believe in.
This story is not for the feint hearted. It's a dark standalone. It will squeeze your heart and then spit you out with the ending. The ending?? Well I wanted to throw myself in the ground and have a tantrum but I now understand why.
If you love dark stories then I certainly recommend this.
I started it one night and finished it first thing the next morning.
This book consumed me. It sucked me right in.
A night out finds Isla drugged, kidnapped and held captive. My heart bled for Isla. Can she really go through any more pain and heartache?
When Javier enters her life she starts second guessing everything she was forced to believe in.
This story is not for the feint hearted. It's a dark standalone. It will squeeze your heart and then spit you out with the ending. The ending?? Well I wanted to throw myself in the ground and have a tantrum but I now understand why.
If you love dark stories then I certainly recommend this.
February 8, 2016
Heroine Hearts...
Where do I begin... I always say that Kirsty surprises me with each book with her growth and how far she has come as a writer and well Heroine Hearts absolutely blew me away! I am incredibly lucky to be able to beta for Kirsty and I am so glad I am one of the lucky ones who got my claws on this baby first. Kirsty isn't an author to shy away from a hard story line or a sensitive subject and she has done it justice with Heroine Hearts. Whilst reading I certainly had my eyes opened to a subject I can honestly say I knew very little about, the way it's written was easy to understand and completely engulfing.
When I finished the book Kirsty asked me for words to describe Heroine Hearts, my reply was...
'Dark, intense, powerful, moving, enlightening, eye opening, raw, brutal, devastating, emotional, soul engulfing, consuming.'
...and that was just off the top of my head. This story is all of that and so much more. For me this is a book that I think everyone will take something a little different from and for me personally what stayed with me was the relationship between the lead characters, Javier and Isla. Theirs is definitely a story that isn't easy but is so powerful. Finding strength and comfort in the darkest of places is what these two are all about and being what each other needs to become better versions of their selves and to heal.
This book WILL move you, it will make you feel and it will change you. Through the words Kirsty has written and the world she creates you will gladly lose yourself and love every minute of it. Heroine Hearts is one of my all time favourite reads, Kirsty has really out done herself with this beauty and I can't wait for everyone to read it.
Where do I begin... I always say that Kirsty surprises me with each book with her growth and how far she has come as a writer and well Heroine Hearts absolutely blew me away! I am incredibly lucky to be able to beta for Kirsty and I am so glad I am one of the lucky ones who got my claws on this baby first. Kirsty isn't an author to shy away from a hard story line or a sensitive subject and she has done it justice with Heroine Hearts. Whilst reading I certainly had my eyes opened to a subject I can honestly say I knew very little about, the way it's written was easy to understand and completely engulfing.
When I finished the book Kirsty asked me for words to describe Heroine Hearts, my reply was...
'Dark, intense, powerful, moving, enlightening, eye opening, raw, brutal, devastating, emotional, soul engulfing, consuming.'
...and that was just off the top of my head. This story is all of that and so much more. For me this is a book that I think everyone will take something a little different from and for me personally what stayed with me was the relationship between the lead characters, Javier and Isla. Theirs is definitely a story that isn't easy but is so powerful. Finding strength and comfort in the darkest of places is what these two are all about and being what each other needs to become better versions of their selves and to heal.
This book WILL move you, it will make you feel and it will change you. Through the words Kirsty has written and the world she creates you will gladly lose yourself and love every minute of it. Heroine Hearts is one of my all time favourite reads, Kirsty has really out done herself with this beauty and I can't wait for everyone to read it.
March 30, 2016
I have no words.
I refuse to believe it.
So.
Much.
YES.
This book wasn't a love story. This book wasn't romantic.
What this book was, was different. It was gut wrenching and soul destroying all at the same time. It left me breathless, completely spent and with one of the worst book hangovers I've ever had!
I hate spoilers, so I'll keep this to the basics.
Let's talk Isla. Gah! This poor, broken girl. I just want to grab her right from the pages and hug the ever loving (insert S-word) out of her! Straight from the get-go I loved her and felt like I knew her. The way Still brings her in, develops her character, is amazing. I was right there with her, experiencing what she did, and feeding from her strength. She's by far one of the best main characters I've ever read.
Now Javier - sigh. This man, this beautiful (F-Bomb) man. He's not your usual stalk-worthy book boyfriend. His first scene is violent, and you see the very worst of him, but yet... Still makes him relatable. He's hurting, and you can feel that hurt as you read.
The entire story had me in it's grasps for the whole journey. I couldn't get off the Isla/Javier train, even if I wanted to. Which I didn't. I wanted to ride that train all the way home, every day of the week! I even fell a little bit in love with the bad guys - especially Santiago. He was the proverbial P to a lady's V, but damn the guy had style.
I was entrapped in the entire El Salvador world. I wanted to be there, be a part of that life, despite knowing how ridiculous that was.
Bravo, Kirsty-Anne Still. Bravo.
I refuse to believe it.
So.
Much.
YES.
This book wasn't a love story. This book wasn't romantic.
What this book was, was different. It was gut wrenching and soul destroying all at the same time. It left me breathless, completely spent and with one of the worst book hangovers I've ever had!
I hate spoilers, so I'll keep this to the basics.
Let's talk Isla. Gah! This poor, broken girl. I just want to grab her right from the pages and hug the ever loving (insert S-word) out of her! Straight from the get-go I loved her and felt like I knew her. The way Still brings her in, develops her character, is amazing. I was right there with her, experiencing what she did, and feeding from her strength. She's by far one of the best main characters I've ever read.
Now Javier - sigh. This man, this beautiful (F-Bomb) man. He's not your usual stalk-worthy book boyfriend. His first scene is violent, and you see the very worst of him, but yet... Still makes him relatable. He's hurting, and you can feel that hurt as you read.
The entire story had me in it's grasps for the whole journey. I couldn't get off the Isla/Javier train, even if I wanted to. Which I didn't. I wanted to ride that train all the way home, every day of the week! I even fell a little bit in love with the bad guys - especially Santiago. He was the proverbial P to a lady's V, but damn the guy had style.
I was entrapped in the entire El Salvador world. I wanted to be there, be a part of that life, despite knowing how ridiculous that was.
Bravo, Kirsty-Anne Still. Bravo.
March 28, 2016
4.5 deliciously dark stars!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Just let me start by saying that this book is certainly unlike any other that I have ever read!
The story kept me captivated from the very beginning and I just could put my phone down. I just HAD to keep going! I am totally in love with this book lol Kirsty brings us one more amazing read which will just suck you right in with all the emotions!
Isla is not what I expected her to be. She comes out strong even after all she's had to endure with the cartel. She does not let her that never-ending horrid experience bring her down. She's a true survivor.
Javier on the other hand is a complete surprise. He's compassionate and wants to help the girls. How he is towards Isla... you'll just have to read to find out ;)
The story, though it was dark, was simply amazing! I was hooked until the very end. I cannot wait to read what the author writes next!
~ Divya
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Just let me start by saying that this book is certainly unlike any other that I have ever read!
The story kept me captivated from the very beginning and I just could put my phone down. I just HAD to keep going! I am totally in love with this book lol Kirsty brings us one more amazing read which will just suck you right in with all the emotions!
Isla is not what I expected her to be. She comes out strong even after all she's had to endure with the cartel. She does not let her that never-ending horrid experience bring her down. She's a true survivor.
Javier on the other hand is a complete surprise. He's compassionate and wants to help the girls. How he is towards Isla... you'll just have to read to find out ;)
The story, though it was dark, was simply amazing! I was hooked until the very end. I cannot wait to read what the author writes next!
~ Divya
June 14, 2016
Isla taken after a night out and made to work as a drug mule. She's a protector and helps keep the other girls she works with safe.
Santiago the evil son who treats Isla so cruelly. He deserved everything he had coming.
Joaquín the head of the cartel names Isla number eighteen. I almost felt I saw a good side to him at times, but must of been all an act.
Javier joins the cartel to find his missing sister. He looks after Isla especially when times get bad for her. Javier had my heart racing at one stage of the book, I thought he was turning into one of the bad guys.
It was nice to have a bit of a love story to even out all the bad things that were happening to Isla.
Isla deserved some happiness in her life after what she has been made to go through.
A really good read with a powerful ending.
Santiago the evil son who treats Isla so cruelly. He deserved everything he had coming.
Joaquín the head of the cartel names Isla number eighteen. I almost felt I saw a good side to him at times, but must of been all an act.
Javier joins the cartel to find his missing sister. He looks after Isla especially when times get bad for her. Javier had my heart racing at one stage of the book, I thought he was turning into one of the bad guys.
It was nice to have a bit of a love story to even out all the bad things that were happening to Isla.
Isla deserved some happiness in her life after what she has been made to go through.
A really good read with a powerful ending.
June 12, 2017
This book is a deliciously dark read. It's written superbly, dabbling in drug addiction in a way that you can clearly tell the author did her research well for this book.
It dabbles in a lot of taboo subjects, some things that some people may not like. Like another of this authors books some people will treat it a lot like marmite.
Me personally, I loved it!!!
It completely tugs at the heartstrings and if you don't finish the book crying then you have a very stone cold heart!!!
Just another five star book from clearly a good author.
It dabbles in a lot of taboo subjects, some things that some people may not like. Like another of this authors books some people will treat it a lot like marmite.
Me personally, I loved it!!!
It completely tugs at the heartstrings and if you don't finish the book crying then you have a very stone cold heart!!!
Just another five star book from clearly a good author.
March 31, 2016
Holy f*cking sh*ting sh*t sh*t!!!
Right now I'm struggling to put into words at how amazing this book was, I can barely see to write this through the tears of heart break and of anger towards Kirsty-Anne Still!
From the first page I was hooked and I need to read the next page and the next page and the next and the next... you get the point haha! I need to read this in one go like it was a drug and need my fix!
Isla is this beautifully strong woman who had been taken as a drug mule with no way of escaping this living hell! The things these girls had been made to do and go through just to please these horrible, despicable men for they're own entertainment was heartbreaking and soul crushing! but Isla didn't let it show on the surface, she just wanted to survive.
Javier *sigh* (new book boyfriend alert)joins the Mexican Cartel searching for something, little does he know that he will find more than he was bargained for when he arrives!
if you love dark books then this book is for you it's dark and it's twisted!
This is my third time reading this and it doesn't get any easier, I feel all the angst and anger throughout as I did the first time I had read it! I was lucky enough to read as it was being written, then again and now as a reviewing blogger!
I don't think I could fault this for anything! well I can... THAT ENDING!! Jesus, I swear you could hear my heart cracking all the was in Australia!! I'm utterly heartbroken for more than one reason. one, it was over and two... well you'll have to read it an find out!
Well done Kirsty-Anne this book is just mind blowing, you have grown with each book you have written and im incredibly proud of you and I love watching you growing as a writer! Oh and I need my next fix!!!
*Copy provided for an honest review*
Right now I'm struggling to put into words at how amazing this book was, I can barely see to write this through the tears of heart break and of anger towards Kirsty-Anne Still!
From the first page I was hooked and I need to read the next page and the next page and the next and the next... you get the point haha! I need to read this in one go like it was a drug and need my fix!
Isla is this beautifully strong woman who had been taken as a drug mule with no way of escaping this living hell! The things these girls had been made to do and go through just to please these horrible, despicable men for they're own entertainment was heartbreaking and soul crushing! but Isla didn't let it show on the surface, she just wanted to survive.
Javier *sigh* (new book boyfriend alert)joins the Mexican Cartel searching for something, little does he know that he will find more than he was bargained for when he arrives!
if you love dark books then this book is for you it's dark and it's twisted!
This is my third time reading this and it doesn't get any easier, I feel all the angst and anger throughout as I did the first time I had read it! I was lucky enough to read as it was being written, then again and now as a reviewing blogger!
I don't think I could fault this for anything! well I can... THAT ENDING!! Jesus, I swear you could hear my heart cracking all the was in Australia!! I'm utterly heartbroken for more than one reason. one, it was over and two... well you'll have to read it an find out!
Well done Kirsty-Anne this book is just mind blowing, you have grown with each book you have written and im incredibly proud of you and I love watching you growing as a writer! Oh and I need my next fix!!!
*Copy provided for an honest review*
April 1, 2016
WOW - this was one of those stories that I didn't expect - a bit of a unique twist to it and a very dark and twisted feel. Many triggers for those who have suffered or dealt with abuse/addiction so not exactly an easy read but also not one that I could put down. The ending - OH NO WAY - I did NOT expect that at all - are you freakin kidding me - but hey I am just a reader - Kirsty is the boss lady at this...
Isla was forced away from her loved ones years ago during spring break as many of the other girls here were. They are used and abused on top of being forced to run drugs across the border. The drug cartel has been around for years and is powerful and strong under Joaquin's rule. Though lately his son Santiago has been trying to do things his own way , to change things up and to say he is more ruthless than any is an understatement. When we meet Isla she may be broken and lost BUT she is still strong and determined to care for these girls and she allows herself to suffer so they won't have to. It doesn't always work for her BUT she tries. Javier is the new guy on the block. Fought til the death to get into the cartel and quickly proved himself and moved up the ranks. Nobody knows his secret but us and although he plays a great bad guy he is all heart. When we do find out his story and he shares that with Isla their connection becomes so much more. Sadly this may be the downfall for them both. Can Javier recover his emotions and fix what he set in motion or will this be the final straw for isla and her broken body ?? This is a crazy ride and over this short span of time we see so much horror it is a wonder anyone survived. This is one of those stories that no matter how hard you wish for it there isn't an alternate ending...
Isla was forced away from her loved ones years ago during spring break as many of the other girls here were. They are used and abused on top of being forced to run drugs across the border. The drug cartel has been around for years and is powerful and strong under Joaquin's rule. Though lately his son Santiago has been trying to do things his own way , to change things up and to say he is more ruthless than any is an understatement. When we meet Isla she may be broken and lost BUT she is still strong and determined to care for these girls and she allows herself to suffer so they won't have to. It doesn't always work for her BUT she tries. Javier is the new guy on the block. Fought til the death to get into the cartel and quickly proved himself and moved up the ranks. Nobody knows his secret but us and although he plays a great bad guy he is all heart. When we do find out his story and he shares that with Isla their connection becomes so much more. Sadly this may be the downfall for them both. Can Javier recover his emotions and fix what he set in motion or will this be the final straw for isla and her broken body ?? This is a crazy ride and over this short span of time we see so much horror it is a wonder anyone survived. This is one of those stories that no matter how hard you wish for it there isn't an alternate ending...
May 3, 2016
♥••*´¨`*•.☆• MY REVIEW •☆.•*´¨`*••♥
Heroine Hearts by Kirsty-Anne Still
4 ☆
Reviewed by Jane on behalf of Lush Reads Book Blog.
BLOODY HELL! What a fab read. I was gripped from beginning to end. The first chapter pulled me in from the get-go and I love a book that can grab my attention from the very first page.
I read the blurb, loved that and realised that this book could be right up my street. I wasn’t wrong. Heart pounding action, gritty plot and storyline, likeable characters and set in a world that we only see in movies. I can’t applaud the author enough for her talent and her huge balls for writing this book with taboo content. This was just what the doctor ordered.
First off we have Isla… our feisty young lady who not only was ripped away from her wonderful life, but she had so many obstacles to overcome while in the clutches of the El Salvador-a ruthless drug cartel. She is used… primarily as a drug mule, but also to pleasure the men of this awful gang of disgusting men. Throughout the story her strength shines, she embraces the life she’s been forced to live and makes the best of a bad situation.
Enter Javier Santos, stage right! OMG what a dude! Earning his place within the clique of the El Salvador is not coincidence. He is there for a reason. I won’t tell you why he’s there, you’ll have to discover his secrets for yourself by reading this fab book. I will tell you this though, you will love him. He’s smart, sexy, loving and caring… oh yeah, he’s hot too!
This book is powerful, gritty, thrilling and brilliant! It has it’s dark moments, so be warned.
The only criticism is that in places, it drags a little, but that being said, it all builds up to a dramatic ending.
Great job Ms. Still!
Heroine Hearts by Kirsty-Anne Still
4 ☆
Reviewed by Jane on behalf of Lush Reads Book Blog.
BLOODY HELL! What a fab read. I was gripped from beginning to end. The first chapter pulled me in from the get-go and I love a book that can grab my attention from the very first page.
I read the blurb, loved that and realised that this book could be right up my street. I wasn’t wrong. Heart pounding action, gritty plot and storyline, likeable characters and set in a world that we only see in movies. I can’t applaud the author enough for her talent and her huge balls for writing this book with taboo content. This was just what the doctor ordered.
First off we have Isla… our feisty young lady who not only was ripped away from her wonderful life, but she had so many obstacles to overcome while in the clutches of the El Salvador-a ruthless drug cartel. She is used… primarily as a drug mule, but also to pleasure the men of this awful gang of disgusting men. Throughout the story her strength shines, she embraces the life she’s been forced to live and makes the best of a bad situation.
Enter Javier Santos, stage right! OMG what a dude! Earning his place within the clique of the El Salvador is not coincidence. He is there for a reason. I won’t tell you why he’s there, you’ll have to discover his secrets for yourself by reading this fab book. I will tell you this though, you will love him. He’s smart, sexy, loving and caring… oh yeah, he’s hot too!
This book is powerful, gritty, thrilling and brilliant! It has it’s dark moments, so be warned.
The only criticism is that in places, it drags a little, but that being said, it all builds up to a dramatic ending.
Great job Ms. Still!
May 19, 2016
Heroine Hearts
Kirsty Anne Still
4 stars
Note: This story deals with violence against women and addiction. Please do not read if you have triggers from either or both or these. This is a dark read that includes both.
Isla was taken away from her family and friends after a tragic incident during spring break. She wasn’t the only one taken … there were numerous others. It was a perfect place to pick your prey. Broken, used, and forced to do things you cant imagine, Isla lost her innocence a long time ago. The drug cartel is something you don’t break free from. Refusing to be shattered Isla is strong and fights. She stands strong taking things on her own body so the frail girls wont suffer.
Javier has wanted nothing but to work his way up the ranks of the cartel. He has moved up but not without blood. The man has a secret though and it may be his end and the end of a woman he wants to save. A violent man with a soul …
The turmoil between these characters is completely off the charts. The first time you meet Javier you are going to think this is going to be brutal and you may or may not be right. I wont tell … I can tell you though that you wont believe the story woven on the pages. The story isn’t easy and it isn’t pretty. It will take you through some very dark places and you might lose yourself in the process. The ending .. hold on …
I really love Kirsty Anne and her writing – I loved Saturdays at the Viper Room which was my first read by her. Thank you for the ARC Kirsty Anne!
Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
Kirsty Anne Still
4 stars
Note: This story deals with violence against women and addiction. Please do not read if you have triggers from either or both or these. This is a dark read that includes both.
Isla was taken away from her family and friends after a tragic incident during spring break. She wasn’t the only one taken … there were numerous others. It was a perfect place to pick your prey. Broken, used, and forced to do things you cant imagine, Isla lost her innocence a long time ago. The drug cartel is something you don’t break free from. Refusing to be shattered Isla is strong and fights. She stands strong taking things on her own body so the frail girls wont suffer.
Javier has wanted nothing but to work his way up the ranks of the cartel. He has moved up but not without blood. The man has a secret though and it may be his end and the end of a woman he wants to save. A violent man with a soul …
The turmoil between these characters is completely off the charts. The first time you meet Javier you are going to think this is going to be brutal and you may or may not be right. I wont tell … I can tell you though that you wont believe the story woven on the pages. The story isn’t easy and it isn’t pretty. It will take you through some very dark places and you might lose yourself in the process. The ending .. hold on …
I really love Kirsty Anne and her writing – I loved Saturdays at the Viper Room which was my first read by her. Thank you for the ARC Kirsty Anne!
Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
June 7, 2016
Soooooo….another book that I am torn on. While I enjoyed the whole concept and the plot of this book, the characters just fell flat for me.
Kirsty does a good job of keeping you interested in the story but I had a hard time of really grasping onto the characters. I felt disconnected from them and that really hurt staying in tune with the book. I found myself many times walking away from the book and only continuing on because I wanted to see how the story ended – not really caring about the characters though.
Heroine Hearts is definitely and ugly and dark. And that’s what made me love the plot – I love books that do not follow the norm or the happy go-lucky. The cartel life is no peach and Kirsty does a great job of depicting the nastiness – no sunshine here. There’s a lot of abuse and lots of drug use and all around fuckedupness.
I am sure that I will be in the minority where the book didn’t wow me and that was due to the disconnect with the characters. Other than that, the concept and plot are great.
Will I read another book by Kirsty – definitely. Not every book will be for every person.
Kirsty does a good job of keeping you interested in the story but I had a hard time of really grasping onto the characters. I felt disconnected from them and that really hurt staying in tune with the book. I found myself many times walking away from the book and only continuing on because I wanted to see how the story ended – not really caring about the characters though.
Heroine Hearts is definitely and ugly and dark. And that’s what made me love the plot – I love books that do not follow the norm or the happy go-lucky. The cartel life is no peach and Kirsty does a great job of depicting the nastiness – no sunshine here. There’s a lot of abuse and lots of drug use and all around fuckedupness.
I am sure that I will be in the minority where the book didn’t wow me and that was due to the disconnect with the characters. Other than that, the concept and plot are great.
Will I read another book by Kirsty – definitely. Not every book will be for every person.
August 13, 2016
I have to be honest with you there are times in a readers life that she is going to get a book that was not bad, just didn't agree with her. I have to tell you that this was that book for me. I'm not saying that it is a bad book at all, it just didn't hold me. I could never really get into this book. I don't ever mind the darker romance novels. I actually really love them, they give your that drama and sexy all tied into one. I just really couldn't get into one with this much drug use. Maybe chalk it up to not personal experience but know someone who deals with it. I think the line "I'm not a clear-cut image, I'm warped by drugs, giving in to their overwhelming power at last even after striving to ignore their potency" really captures it.
Kristy-Anne Still is a very good writer. Heroine Hearts a steamy, rough, and toxic. Like I said this is not a bad book it was just not the book for me.
I suggest that you give it a try for your self and maybe you will enjoy.
Kristy-Anne Still is a very good writer. Heroine Hearts a steamy, rough, and toxic. Like I said this is not a bad book it was just not the book for me.
I suggest that you give it a try for your self and maybe you will enjoy.
February 19, 2016
Gosh I'm speechless of what to write here after just finishing this book. Firstly, this is not your average love story. It's dark, intense and extremely emotional. I cried 4 times at different parts of the story. The theme is surrounding the Mexican Cartel and Isla, a taken girl and Javier who is looking for revenge. It's not a romance for the faint hearted for sure and is most probably the darkest book I've read. I love Kirsty-Anne's work and she has really excelled with this story. It may not be the usual romance but it's a brilliant work of art. Very creative and you feel part of what happens throughout the book. Love is truly an addiction! Well done K-A! Be proud of this story. Given this book as an ARC and this was my honest review.
March 29, 2016
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Heroine Hearts by Kirsty-Anne Still is a raw, gritty, and unlikely love story. Isla and Santos meet under the worst circumstances but manage to find solace in one another. This story was in your face at times and I loved it! The author really did an amazing job in transporting you to their messed up world. I genuinely felt the characters emotions and what they were going through. This book takes you on an emotional and crazy ride that you won’t want to get off. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I look forward to reading more from her! 5 stars!!
Heroine Hearts by Kirsty-Anne Still is a raw, gritty, and unlikely love story. Isla and Santos meet under the worst circumstances but manage to find solace in one another. This story was in your face at times and I loved it! The author really did an amazing job in transporting you to their messed up world. I genuinely felt the characters emotions and what they were going through. This book takes you on an emotional and crazy ride that you won’t want to get off. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I look forward to reading more from her! 5 stars!!
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March 30, 2016Heroine Hearts- OUT NOW
#DarknessMadeTheseHeroineHearts
#GetHooked
BUY LINKS:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1PDejRl
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1P03CsF
Barnes&Noble: http://bit.ly/1LV1maO
iBooks: http://apple.co/1Ro1JuH
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Shy5ng
Inktera: http://bit.ly/1pVyKEB
**Due to subject material, this book is advised for readers of a mature nature and not suitable for any readers under 18. Read at your own discretion.
Use of tough subject matter includes rape, substance abuse, and violence.**
#DarknessMadeTheseHeroineHearts
#GetHooked
BUY LINKS:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1PDejRl
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1P03CsF
Barnes&Noble: http://bit.ly/1LV1maO
iBooks: http://apple.co/1Ro1JuH
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Shy5ng
Inktera: http://bit.ly/1pVyKEB
**Due to subject material, this book is advised for readers of a mature nature and not suitable for any readers under 18. Read at your own discretion.
Use of tough subject matter includes rape, substance abuse, and violence.**
April 8, 2016
Seriously?
Just. . . I don't like you.
Why would you do that to me? To US as dedicated readers. I would say I'm never buying your books again but that's a lie so I'm just going to say I don't like you!
Will there be more. He isn't really dead is he? Is he Harry Potter 'dead' or Dumbledore dead?
GAH!!!
Just. . . I don't like you.
Why would you do that to me? To US as dedicated readers. I would say I'm never buying your books again but that's a lie so I'm just going to say I don't like you!
Will there be more. He isn't really dead is he? Is he Harry Potter 'dead' or Dumbledore dead?
GAH!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2016
Review to come soon.
November 10, 2018
Sis de mi corazón, no importa cuándo leas esto. Estás castiga.
.
.
No diré que es malo, depende de si te van este tipo de lecturas, pero para mí fue un tremendo y completo, dolor de cabeza.
.
.
No diré que es malo, depende de si te van este tipo de lecturas, pero para mí fue un tremendo y completo, dolor de cabeza.
May 4, 2017
Gripping Stuff!!!
This book just broke my heart but it was fantastic and very powerful.
It showed the dark and dangerous world of the drug mules .
It gave a harrowing insight into the horrific things they have to endure at the hands of the the people who control every aspect of their lives.
It's certainly not for the faint hearted so don't expect hearts and flowers with this one. It's raw and brutal, dirty and violent.
The ending completely gutted me, but I feel strongly that it had to be done that way or it wouldn't of worked.
The story just captivated me from the beginning I felt so many emotions towards the characters in this book. I hated some of them and really wanted them to suffer.
But I loved how brave some of them were even when faced with life or death situations.
If you want to try something to make you stop and think and take you out of your comfort zone. Then this is for you.
I wish I'd read this one sooner.
This book just broke my heart but it was fantastic and very powerful.
It showed the dark and dangerous world of the drug mules .
It gave a harrowing insight into the horrific things they have to endure at the hands of the the people who control every aspect of their lives.
It's certainly not for the faint hearted so don't expect hearts and flowers with this one. It's raw and brutal, dirty and violent.
The ending completely gutted me, but I feel strongly that it had to be done that way or it wouldn't of worked.
The story just captivated me from the beginning I felt so many emotions towards the characters in this book. I hated some of them and really wanted them to suffer.
But I loved how brave some of them were even when faced with life or death situations.
If you want to try something to make you stop and think and take you out of your comfort zone. Then this is for you.
I wish I'd read this one sooner.
October 8, 2018
WOW This isn't your typical dark,gritty read it was harrowing at times with the horrors that went on in the cartel,but also a heartfelt story of a woman being kidnapped off the streets to be abused and used as a drug mule for the drug cartel.
Isla is called eighteen by the men of the cartel as she is used as a sex toy and tortured by all the men that work for the drug lord.After all that she goes through she is a strong person and i loved how she looked after all the other girls as they was used for the drug runs.
This is not for the faint hearted as there were a few triggers along the way,it is a very dark read but i found i couldn't put this down and needed to know how this was all going to end.OMG that ending killed me,WTF,guttered i just have no words for this.Five Huge Dark Harrowing stars.
Isla is called eighteen by the men of the cartel as she is used as a sex toy and tortured by all the men that work for the drug lord.After all that she goes through she is a strong person and i loved how she looked after all the other girls as they was used for the drug runs.
This is not for the faint hearted as there were a few triggers along the way,it is a very dark read but i found i couldn't put this down and needed to know how this was all going to end.OMG that ending killed me,WTF,guttered i just have no words for this.Five Huge Dark Harrowing stars.
July 23, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thought it was fantastic!! It is a dark romance with descriptions of some very disturbing things. It isn't a story for everyone. If you're looking for a story filled with hearts and flowers you'll want to pass on this one.
Isla is a strong woman. The torture she is forced to endure would be more than enough to break most people. It was heartbreaking and I found myself in tears multiple times. This story was written in a way that just drew me in. From the beginning I was hooked. If you're a fan of dark romance I definitely recommend reading this.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
Isla is a strong woman. The torture she is forced to endure would be more than enough to break most people. It was heartbreaking and I found myself in tears multiple times. This story was written in a way that just drew me in. From the beginning I was hooked. If you're a fan of dark romance I definitely recommend reading this.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
May 22, 2017
Oh My Word.... well actually there is just one word that I will use to describe this book and that is WOW!! I absolutely loved this. Oh the angst.... I don't think I took a breath from the very first page until the end and I loved that about this book, never knowing what was going to happen and the twists and turns in the story. It was amazing!!
The characters were perfect, I loved Isla and Javier who lead this story but I have to say that all the characters were perfectly written. A fantastic read that will have you gripped to find out what happens.
The characters were perfect, I loved Isla and Javier who lead this story but I have to say that all the characters were perfectly written. A fantastic read that will have you gripped to find out what happens.
March 29, 2023
If you are looking for a dark mafia read that is full of could be triggers then this is the book for you!
Isla and Javier were not meant to be, but after being brought into each other lives by chance they instantly found the reason to go on.
Absolutely jam packed with gritty and intense moments that just keep you flipping those pages to find out whats next for this pair.
Also just when you think you have it sussed on how the storyline will go,,, it all changes in the blink of an eye so it keeps you guessing until the very last words on if these guys get their hea!
*Read as part of KU*
Isla and Javier were not meant to be, but after being brought into each other lives by chance they instantly found the reason to go on.
Absolutely jam packed with gritty and intense moments that just keep you flipping those pages to find out whats next for this pair.
Also just when you think you have it sussed on how the storyline will go,,, it all changes in the blink of an eye so it keeps you guessing until the very last words on if these guys get their hea!
*Read as part of KU*
June 29, 2019
¡Por fin lo terminé!
No es una mala historia, aunque su final es una mierda y la escritura te complica la lectura de mil maneras.
No es una mala historia, aunque su final es una mierda y la escritura te complica la lectura de mil maneras.
May 26, 2022
It's not very often when I'm instantly wowed by a book, but Herione Hearts just blew me away! Original and not predictable, the storyline, the characters and the emotions that the writing pulled from my soul had me captivated throughout. It's dark, it tore my heart apart and I applaud the author for delivering a thought-provoking story that will forever stay with me.
March 15, 2016
Wow! I was so excited about this story after being lucky enough to get glimpses into this in the making and knew it would be amazing. Kirsty-Anne Still has done it again. The harrowing and horror filled story line that left me feeling heartbroken and petrified all rolled into one!
Excerpt:
...there's one part of me that will always win because I don't give up.
Isla or rather 'Eighteen' is head of a group of women who have been captured and abused by the hands of her captors they would be held and used not only as drug mules but for any use the men see them fit for.
Well until Javier...a man offered Eight
Excerpt:
I want to confess everything to a man I've known for not even an hour and I want him to know what this life does to a man...I want to do against every teaching I've learnt while here...I'm willing to risk my life for a stranger.
Javier with his own reasons for tracking down this group of men (El Salvador) never expects to meet a woman who affects him more than he expects. Becomes his reason for being there. Pretending to fit in with the monsters surrounding him to protect her. He truly is her knight in shining armour.
Excerpt:
I'm new to this, but in such a short amount of time I have seen so many sides to Isla. I'm not given the illusion of a warrior. I'm given every beautiful shard of her shattered soul and I'm the one she trusts to free fall with.
As he learns of Isla, her past and present and her forced abuse of drugs and her addiction to not only drugs but surviving her life in the horrid moments she faces. Will he finally she's someone to replace the addiction she has and turn to him to forget rather than the drugs who give her that temporary release?
Excerpt
Because love isn't a drug, it's a tonic. It's something that brings life to the coldest of souls, breathes faith back into the most lost beings, and causes a new strength to grow.
As with all this amazing authors work, she writes to brilliantly and beautifully despite horrific and unthinkable circumstances you can't help but keep turning those pages. Delve further into her nightmare and hope for happiness after all the horror faced.
Excerpt:
Let me love your every beautiful shard, Isla, because I promise you now, they're the most precious thing I could ever be entrusted with.
A truly dark and twisted read filled with physical, mental and sexual abuse, not to mention drug use. But throughout all that darkness Kirsty-Anne Still brings a beauty and light to Isla's life and gives her hope of a future again. Something she hasn't had for a very long time. The way she writes never fails to capture me and shows her true talent as an author with the artistic way she portrays scenes with equal amounts of good versus evil. I adored it and could rant all day! If you enjoy dark reads then this is most definitely for you!
Final excerpt:
"What do you say, Javier? Can you protect our most prized possession?"
....I know this is the easiest pledge I've made while here.
"With my life."
Excerpt:
...there's one part of me that will always win because I don't give up.
Isla or rather 'Eighteen' is head of a group of women who have been captured and abused by the hands of her captors they would be held and used not only as drug mules but for any use the men see them fit for.
Well until Javier...a man offered Eight
Excerpt:
I want to confess everything to a man I've known for not even an hour and I want him to know what this life does to a man...I want to do against every teaching I've learnt while here...I'm willing to risk my life for a stranger.
Javier with his own reasons for tracking down this group of men (El Salvador) never expects to meet a woman who affects him more than he expects. Becomes his reason for being there. Pretending to fit in with the monsters surrounding him to protect her. He truly is her knight in shining armour.
Excerpt:
I'm new to this, but in such a short amount of time I have seen so many sides to Isla. I'm not given the illusion of a warrior. I'm given every beautiful shard of her shattered soul and I'm the one she trusts to free fall with.
As he learns of Isla, her past and present and her forced abuse of drugs and her addiction to not only drugs but surviving her life in the horrid moments she faces. Will he finally she's someone to replace the addiction she has and turn to him to forget rather than the drugs who give her that temporary release?
Excerpt
Because love isn't a drug, it's a tonic. It's something that brings life to the coldest of souls, breathes faith back into the most lost beings, and causes a new strength to grow.
As with all this amazing authors work, she writes to brilliantly and beautifully despite horrific and unthinkable circumstances you can't help but keep turning those pages. Delve further into her nightmare and hope for happiness after all the horror faced.
Excerpt:
Let me love your every beautiful shard, Isla, because I promise you now, they're the most precious thing I could ever be entrusted with.
A truly dark and twisted read filled with physical, mental and sexual abuse, not to mention drug use. But throughout all that darkness Kirsty-Anne Still brings a beauty and light to Isla's life and gives her hope of a future again. Something she hasn't had for a very long time. The way she writes never fails to capture me and shows her true talent as an author with the artistic way she portrays scenes with equal amounts of good versus evil. I adored it and could rant all day! If you enjoy dark reads then this is most definitely for you!
Final excerpt:
"What do you say, Javier? Can you protect our most prized possession?"
....I know this is the easiest pledge I've made while here.
"With my life."
April 14, 2016
Noteworthy experiences whilst reading this book (best parts, worst parts, quotes etc, personal opinions):
OK, firstly not what I was expecting at all from this book! I was channeling a Trainspotting, junkie on the streets of London based book, but what I got was A FUCKING ORGASM mash up of Cocaine Cowboys + Maria Full of Grace + El Cartel and a whole load of other South American based drug trafficking/cartel films (I love a good cartel film).
Isla is living in hell, she's a drug mule living in a very dark underworld with no way of escaping.
Javier is a newbie just joining the Mexican cartel, he get's more than he bargained for! If you love dark books, angst, heart stopping drama you'll love HH, it's dark and it's twisted! it's great to read this by a fellow Brit, usually it's our cousins the Aussie's that nail dark angst.
Fantastic book Kirsty-Anne!
#DarknessMadeTheseHeroineHearts
#GetHooked
Rate on a scale of 1-10 (10 being exceptional)
Quality of Writing: 8
Pace: 9
Plot Development:8
Characters: 9
Enjoyability: 8
Insightfulness: 8
Ease of Reading: 8
Out of 5 stars how would you rate this book overall? 4.5 it was my first read for Kirsty-Anne, and a new author to my 'must read' list, great to read something a little different and not based in US, UK or AU
Would you recommend this books to friends/family YES/NO? YES
OK, firstly not what I was expecting at all from this book! I was channeling a Trainspotting, junkie on the streets of London based book, but what I got was A FUCKING ORGASM mash up of Cocaine Cowboys + Maria Full of Grace + El Cartel and a whole load of other South American based drug trafficking/cartel films (I love a good cartel film).
Isla is living in hell, she's a drug mule living in a very dark underworld with no way of escaping.
Javier is a newbie just joining the Mexican cartel, he get's more than he bargained for! If you love dark books, angst, heart stopping drama you'll love HH, it's dark and it's twisted! it's great to read this by a fellow Brit, usually it's our cousins the Aussie's that nail dark angst.
Fantastic book Kirsty-Anne!
#DarknessMadeTheseHeroineHearts
#GetHooked
Rate on a scale of 1-10 (10 being exceptional)
Quality of Writing: 8
Pace: 9
Plot Development:8
Characters: 9
Enjoyability: 8
Insightfulness: 8
Ease of Reading: 8
Out of 5 stars how would you rate this book overall? 4.5 it was my first read for Kirsty-Anne, and a new author to my 'must read' list, great to read something a little different and not based in US, UK or AU
Would you recommend this books to friends/family YES/NO? YES
June 17, 2016
This book starts off with a bang as we are presented with a group of girls , being forced to snort cocaine and taste the drugs and one of them dies. We later learn that these girls are drug mules and were kidnapped and lured during Spring Breaks. One of the girls is a favourite - her name is Isla but she is called Eighteen. That is because we discover there has been seventeen girls before her. Isla is strong and does not let her weaknesses show, she is sort of a mothering figure to the girls. No-one has made her feel loved or like she is worth something. No-one until now. A new guy has arrived into the Cartel -his name is Javier and we discover that he is searching for someone and has infiltrated the cartel for clues. As the book goes along we watch Javier and Isla start to feel and fall for one another, but what will happen when secrets, truths and lies are revealed ? Will they still be able to love one another when the bad is revealed or were they living in a fantasy world thinking that nothing could be worse than the life they are already living ? I have to admit when I saw the cover and title I didn't expect this book to be quite as dark as it was and to go the way it did. Heroine Hearts is one of those books where no matter how hard life is , sometimes you will get a sliver of hope that one day the light at the end of the tunnel will open up to you and you will escape - hopefully alive but sometimes the only way out is in a body bag.
I shall end this review with the parting words that if you love dark reads and edgy stories , and can stomach heavy violence, human trafficking , rape , drug and sexual abuse then Heroine Hearts is one powerful read that will keep you reading , just in hope that the characters will have a HEA eventually.
I shall end this review with the parting words that if you love dark reads and edgy stories , and can stomach heavy violence, human trafficking , rape , drug and sexual abuse then Heroine Hearts is one powerful read that will keep you reading , just in hope that the characters will have a HEA eventually.
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