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Hearts In Torment #1
A War of Hearts
Three troubled souls tangled in a web of obsessive love.
Logan is poison and Kristen knows it.
She has developed a hatred for his decadent increasingly risqué lifestyle. Yet every time she tells herself she’s done, it never is. His hypnotic power over her draws her back like an addiction.
Logan’s tenuous grip on reality is crumbling. He feels like he is reaching out for an elusive source of fulfillment. Sometimes he finds it in deviant sex, alcohol, and drugs. Other times there is only darkness. Rich, powerful, handsome, he could have anyone he desires. But he’s obsessed with Kristen and will not let her go.
Jake is a struggling artist with a powerful determination to follow his dream.
But he is another beautiful mess. On a quest to find happiness and rebuild his life, he longs to escape the shadows of his past. But first, he must defeat the unrelenting nightmares in his head.
When fate brings Kristen and Jake together, it rattles their worlds. Love is not in their plans that day in Central Park, but there is no going back.
Now, Kristen finds herself caught between two wildfires, Jake and Logan.
When jealousy and explosive passion erupt into dark obsession, vengeance is all that is left.
Logan is poison and Kristen knows it.
She has developed a hatred for his decadent increasingly risqué lifestyle. Yet every time she tells herself she’s done, it never is. His hypnotic power over her draws her back like an addiction.
Logan’s tenuous grip on reality is crumbling. He feels like he is reaching out for an elusive source of fulfillment. Sometimes he finds it in deviant sex, alcohol, and drugs. Other times there is only darkness. Rich, powerful, handsome, he could have anyone he desires. But he’s obsessed with Kristen and will not let her go.
Jake is a struggling artist with a powerful determination to follow his dream.
But he is another beautiful mess. On a quest to find happiness and rebuild his life, he longs to escape the shadows of his past. But first, he must defeat the unrelenting nightmares in his head.
When fate brings Kristen and Jake together, it rattles their worlds. Love is not in their plans that day in Central Park, but there is no going back.
Now, Kristen finds herself caught between two wildfires, Jake and Logan.
When jealousy and explosive passion erupt into dark obsession, vengeance is all that is left.
Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2017
73 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Karen Lynn
6 books190 followersDark, twisted, and utterly addictive—those are the stories Karen Lynn loves to write. She is the author of the Hearts in Torment series, a dark romantic suspense saga where love and obsession blur in the most dangerous ways. If you crave intense emotions, tangled relationships, and characters who push the limits, you’re in the right place.
Based in the Portland, Oregon area, Karen Lynn can often be found escaping to the coast, listening to audiobooks, or lost in thought while plotting new ways to torment her characters. She thrives on psychological tension, morally gray dynamics, and slow-burning destruction that keeps readers on edge.
🔥 Pre-Order Now! Hearts Undone releases 3/27/25!
https://www.amazon.com/HEARTS-UNDONE-...
📚 Books in the Hearts in Torment Series:
A War of Hearts → https://www.amazon.com/A-War-of-Heart...
A Sea of Smoke → https://www.amazon.com/A-Sea-of-Smoke...
Turn to Dust → https://www.amazon.com/Turn-to-dust-/...
Hearts Lost in Ashes → https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Lost-In...
Hearts in Torment Box Set (Books 1–3) → https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Torment...
✨ HEARTS UNDONE - Coming Soon to Audible! Stay tuned for updates.
🔗 Follow for updates & behind-the-scenes content:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klawriter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarenl
📖 Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
🌎 Website: http://Heartsintorment.com
Based in the Portland, Oregon area, Karen Lynn can often be found escaping to the coast, listening to audiobooks, or lost in thought while plotting new ways to torment her characters. She thrives on psychological tension, morally gray dynamics, and slow-burning destruction that keeps readers on edge.
🔥 Pre-Order Now! Hearts Undone releases 3/27/25!
https://www.amazon.com/HEARTS-UNDONE-...
📚 Books in the Hearts in Torment Series:
A War of Hearts → https://www.amazon.com/A-War-of-Heart...
A Sea of Smoke → https://www.amazon.com/A-Sea-of-Smoke...
Turn to Dust → https://www.amazon.com/Turn-to-dust-/...
Hearts Lost in Ashes → https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Lost-In...
Hearts in Torment Box Set (Books 1–3) → https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Torment...
✨ HEARTS UNDONE - Coming Soon to Audible! Stay tuned for updates.
🔗 Follow for updates & behind-the-scenes content:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klawriter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarenl
📖 Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
🌎 Website: http://Heartsintorment.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
April 19, 2019
My first novel by Karen Lynn and I wasn’t left disappointed. Suspense, addiction, lust..... great book. Looking forward to starting book 2!
June 2, 2019
Reluctant to leave her abusive husband Kristen found herself drawn to another toxic relationship. In Central Park Kristen Met Jake a struggling artist. Before ending her marriage with Logan she began to build this sexual relationship with Jake.
Narrator:
Claire Riley was the solo performer of this book. The story was read and performed word perfectly. The sound quality was good. Although, the tone and annunciation of words had a held pause that broke the flow. The command of words had a step by step process. The words were mechanical with very little to no emotion. She had that William Shatner tone to her narration at times.
It’s the narrators responsibility to bring these words to life by providing the actual tone and sound to produce the perfect emotion I didn’t feel like Claire did that.
Overall:
This was labeled a psychological thriller which in its self is my favorite genre. My idea of a psychological thriller is completely different from what Karen produced. These Emotionally unstable characters had plenty of drama with their Self-destructive choices. When I think of dark romance I picture FSOG.
I was more curious as to what led Logan to stray and how far back had he been cheating. I was also curious about his job and wondered what he was achieving on his trips. For all the details provided in this book this was an area where more details were warranted.
Kristen’s character was exhausting. Her anger and fear dominated her. Her running into the arms of another man to protect her and resolve her problems was stressful. She was always shouting at anyone who questioned her. She was so hostile and volatile. I don’t understand the appeal of Kristen’s character. She was whiny and pathetic.
I like my stories with a little less soap opera drama. I prefer independent strong confident woman who can make good choices without relying on a man.
Marty and Ruby were the only characters who spoke any sense.
Timeline:
Divided into weeks broken down into days with dual points of view between Logan and Kristen or Kristen/Jake. Each day recounted all the events taking place by all three characters throughout the day and night. This was exhausting with far too much detail.
This book consisted of 5 total weeks. The days and weeks were extensively too long with unnecessary details. Not much was gained with these details. A cycle of fighting and toxicity dominated the days and weeks. 15 hours of listening time. I had to speed things along by listening at 2xs the speed.
One things for damn sure this book and author brought about a ton of negative stressful emotions. Unfortunately, these are not the emotions I search for when I sit down to read a good book.
These characters smothered each other. They had no respect for keeping their personal lives private. The shouting and fighting was inappropriate at work.
According to the premise Logan had some kind of hypnotic hold of control over Kristen, yet nothing about his character stated this type of characteristic. I felt it was Kristen who was weakened by her lack of willpower to walk away. Logan didn’t do anything redeemable in my opinion for her to fall back into his arms. The story needed a better backstory of them together in their twelve years of marriage for me to formulate a plausible explanation for their deceit.
Narrator:
Claire Riley was the solo performer of this book. The story was read and performed word perfectly. The sound quality was good. Although, the tone and annunciation of words had a held pause that broke the flow. The command of words had a step by step process. The words were mechanical with very little to no emotion. She had that William Shatner tone to her narration at times.
It’s the narrators responsibility to bring these words to life by providing the actual tone and sound to produce the perfect emotion I didn’t feel like Claire did that.
Overall:
This was labeled a psychological thriller which in its self is my favorite genre. My idea of a psychological thriller is completely different from what Karen produced. These Emotionally unstable characters had plenty of drama with their Self-destructive choices. When I think of dark romance I picture FSOG.
I was more curious as to what led Logan to stray and how far back had he been cheating. I was also curious about his job and wondered what he was achieving on his trips. For all the details provided in this book this was an area where more details were warranted.
Kristen’s character was exhausting. Her anger and fear dominated her. Her running into the arms of another man to protect her and resolve her problems was stressful. She was always shouting at anyone who questioned her. She was so hostile and volatile. I don’t understand the appeal of Kristen’s character. She was whiny and pathetic.
I like my stories with a little less soap opera drama. I prefer independent strong confident woman who can make good choices without relying on a man.
Marty and Ruby were the only characters who spoke any sense.
Timeline:
Divided into weeks broken down into days with dual points of view between Logan and Kristen or Kristen/Jake. Each day recounted all the events taking place by all three characters throughout the day and night. This was exhausting with far too much detail.
This book consisted of 5 total weeks. The days and weeks were extensively too long with unnecessary details. Not much was gained with these details. A cycle of fighting and toxicity dominated the days and weeks. 15 hours of listening time. I had to speed things along by listening at 2xs the speed.
One things for damn sure this book and author brought about a ton of negative stressful emotions. Unfortunately, these are not the emotions I search for when I sit down to read a good book.
These characters smothered each other. They had no respect for keeping their personal lives private. The shouting and fighting was inappropriate at work.
According to the premise Logan had some kind of hypnotic hold of control over Kristen, yet nothing about his character stated this type of characteristic. I felt it was Kristen who was weakened by her lack of willpower to walk away. Logan didn’t do anything redeemable in my opinion for her to fall back into his arms. The story needed a better backstory of them together in their twelve years of marriage for me to formulate a plausible explanation for their deceit.
July 22, 2020
War of Hearts by Karen Lynn is the first novel in the Hearts in Torment series, dubbed a dark romantic suspense. I read/listen to this novel as I was in the mood for something different. I jumped into this one expecting a dark, twisted and suspenseful read.
Dark and suspenseful it was not, but it sure claim the title of being twisted. Here we have two men, (Logan and Jake) in love with the same woman, (Kristen), but was it really love or was it an obsession?
It took some time for me to get into the story. I put down the book for a while before I finally got the courage to trudge through the end. I have mixed feelings about this story. It was not until the 90% mark that things became interesting. Prior to this there was so much back and forth that, my head spun, but for some strange reason I had to know how it would unfold. I saw the disaster a mile away, but could not look away.
To be honest, the characters got on my nerves. Several times, I wished I could knock some sense into them. I found it difficult to drum up any form of sympathy for Kristen. She knows Logan is not good for her. After twelve years of marriage, she has finally had enough or so she believes. She keeps going back to Logan despite being in a relationship Jake. It is clear she has no clue what she wants. Indecisive, clueless and habitual liar are the words to describe her.
Logan is the ultimate manipulator. He knows which of Kristen’s strings to pull to get what he wants. A narcissistic sociopath by nature
Jake is opposite of Kristen and Logan. Yes, he had issues from his past, but he never allowed to ruin his dreams. He desperately loved Kristen, to where he overlooked her deceitfulness, which was not healthy has it led to him have jealous rages. He struggled with insecurities, which contributed to his acceptance of Kristen’s treatment towards him.
Their behaviour lacked the maturity one would expect from an adult.
Despite my issues with the characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing style. Her attention to details and her descriptions made each scene come alive.
The story did not end in the manner I expected. I suspected that tragedy would strike, and it did, but not how I expected. The ending left me with lots of questions, which my curious mind need to know the answers to. The biggest question I have concerns the growth of the characters. Will they act like the adults they are?
I found the story to be quite long. I believe there were many unnecessary details, which contributed the slow pacing of the story.
Narration
Claire Riley did an okay job with the narration; however, she did mispronounce a few words... I borrowed the ebook through KU and I recognized that that a few paragraphs were left out of the narration. She did an ok job with the character s’ voices. There were moments where I believed; she went a bit overboard with the display of emotions.
Conclusion/Recommendation
In the end not a bad listen, but had the potential to be much better.
Dark and suspenseful it was not, but it sure claim the title of being twisted. Here we have two men, (Logan and Jake) in love with the same woman, (Kristen), but was it really love or was it an obsession?
It took some time for me to get into the story. I put down the book for a while before I finally got the courage to trudge through the end. I have mixed feelings about this story. It was not until the 90% mark that things became interesting. Prior to this there was so much back and forth that, my head spun, but for some strange reason I had to know how it would unfold. I saw the disaster a mile away, but could not look away.
To be honest, the characters got on my nerves. Several times, I wished I could knock some sense into them. I found it difficult to drum up any form of sympathy for Kristen. She knows Logan is not good for her. After twelve years of marriage, she has finally had enough or so she believes. She keeps going back to Logan despite being in a relationship Jake. It is clear she has no clue what she wants. Indecisive, clueless and habitual liar are the words to describe her.
Logan is the ultimate manipulator. He knows which of Kristen’s strings to pull to get what he wants. A narcissistic sociopath by nature
Jake is opposite of Kristen and Logan. Yes, he had issues from his past, but he never allowed to ruin his dreams. He desperately loved Kristen, to where he overlooked her deceitfulness, which was not healthy has it led to him have jealous rages. He struggled with insecurities, which contributed to his acceptance of Kristen’s treatment towards him.
Their behaviour lacked the maturity one would expect from an adult.
Despite my issues with the characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing style. Her attention to details and her descriptions made each scene come alive.
The story did not end in the manner I expected. I suspected that tragedy would strike, and it did, but not how I expected. The ending left me with lots of questions, which my curious mind need to know the answers to. The biggest question I have concerns the growth of the characters. Will they act like the adults they are?
I found the story to be quite long. I believe there were many unnecessary details, which contributed the slow pacing of the story.
Narration
Claire Riley did an okay job with the narration; however, she did mispronounce a few words... I borrowed the ebook through KU and I recognized that that a few paragraphs were left out of the narration. She did an ok job with the character s’ voices. There were moments where I believed; she went a bit overboard with the display of emotions.
Conclusion/Recommendation
In the end not a bad listen, but had the potential to be much better.
Want to read
May 11, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/11/2018)!💝
Three troubled souls tangled in a web of obsessive love.
Logan is poison and Kristen knows it.
She has developed a hatred for his decadent increasingly risqué lifestyle. Yet every time she tells herself she’s done, it never is. His hypnotic power over her draws her back like an addiction.
Logan’s tenuous grip on reality is crumbling. He feels like he is reaching out for an elusive source of fulfillment. Sometimes he finds it in deviant sex, alcohol, and drugs. Other times there is only darkness. Rich, powerful, handsome, he could have anyone he desires. But he’s obsessed with Kristen and will not let her go.
Jake is a struggling artist with a powerful determination to follow his dream.
But he is another beautiful mess. On a quest to find happiness and rebuild his life, he longs to escape the shadows of his past. But first, he must defeat the unrelenting nightmares in his head.
When fate brings Kristen and Jake together, it rattles their worlds. Love is not in their plans that day in Central Park, but there is no going back.
Now, Kristen finds herself caught between two wildfires, Jake and Logan.
When jealousy and explosive passion erupt into dark obsession, vengeance is all that is left.
Three troubled souls tangled in a web of obsessive love.
Logan is poison and Kristen knows it.
She has developed a hatred for his decadent increasingly risqué lifestyle. Yet every time she tells herself she’s done, it never is. His hypnotic power over her draws her back like an addiction.
Logan’s tenuous grip on reality is crumbling. He feels like he is reaching out for an elusive source of fulfillment. Sometimes he finds it in deviant sex, alcohol, and drugs. Other times there is only darkness. Rich, powerful, handsome, he could have anyone he desires. But he’s obsessed with Kristen and will not let her go.
Jake is a struggling artist with a powerful determination to follow his dream.
But he is another beautiful mess. On a quest to find happiness and rebuild his life, he longs to escape the shadows of his past. But first, he must defeat the unrelenting nightmares in his head.
When fate brings Kristen and Jake together, it rattles their worlds. Love is not in their plans that day in Central Park, but there is no going back.
Now, Kristen finds herself caught between two wildfires, Jake and Logan.
When jealousy and explosive passion erupt into dark obsession, vengeance is all that is left.
May 18, 2018
Review Coming
August 21, 2021
4.5 stars
This is a story about a woman stuck in a toxic marriage and the man that is trying to pull her out of it. But just like in real life, Kristen can’t seem to give up on Logan and the hope that he will change. But how much longer will Jake stand on the sidelines and watch Kristen suffer?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author so it took me a few chapters to get into the writing style and tone of the characters. But once I got a handle on the characters and their connections to one another I was very intrigued.
This is a story about a woman stuck in a toxic marriage and the man that is trying to pull her out of it. But just like in real life, Kristen can’t seem to give up on Logan and the hope that he will change. But how much longer will Jake stand on the sidelines and watch Kristen suffer?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author so it took me a few chapters to get into the writing style and tone of the characters. But once I got a handle on the characters and their connections to one another I was very intrigued.
January 12, 2018
I was hooked from the very start, dying of anticipation. The first scene at the park leaves a strong impact and confuses us with plenty of questions.
Like: Will she go with Jake? What is he doing at the park? Should she even trust a stranger?
There are so many questions unanswered that will make us turn the page, just to find out what happens next?
As the story progresses, we will discover some bitter truth about Kristen’s life too. Her new forbidden romance with Jake that she fought so hard; couldn't hold it for long, leading to a beautiful passion. In spite of all the odds she continues the forbidden journey, with a hope, her past doesn't come back and screw all up.
With a promising future, things begin to fall in place but at the back of her head - she would contemplate, struggle. Building up a courage to stand up against the challenges that are yet to come.
What if Logan returns? What would he do? He is capable of anything. He’s brutal and dreadful.
*****
The story and developments of characters are well narrated. But, above all, the most important character of this story is Kristen. Choices in men and relationship what are going to stir the equation.
She is like any other MC: naive and sweet. Which we would often critic - calling them weak but she had her own persona that would unleash as the story continues.
******
This story has everything: steamy romance, drama and suspense. It will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride with a quick rush of adrenaline that a reader can not get enough of it. It felt like watching a movie. Well written and I love how the characters developed throughout. It's refreshing to read something new for a change.
I'm eagerly waiting for the second part. Overall I found the book worthy of my time and money and absolutely loved it. I can't stop drooling over my imaginary Jake. He is a hottie😉
Like: Will she go with Jake? What is he doing at the park? Should she even trust a stranger?
There are so many questions unanswered that will make us turn the page, just to find out what happens next?
As the story progresses, we will discover some bitter truth about Kristen’s life too. Her new forbidden romance with Jake that she fought so hard; couldn't hold it for long, leading to a beautiful passion. In spite of all the odds she continues the forbidden journey, with a hope, her past doesn't come back and screw all up.
With a promising future, things begin to fall in place but at the back of her head - she would contemplate, struggle. Building up a courage to stand up against the challenges that are yet to come.
What if Logan returns? What would he do? He is capable of anything. He’s brutal and dreadful.
*****
The story and developments of characters are well narrated. But, above all, the most important character of this story is Kristen. Choices in men and relationship what are going to stir the equation.
She is like any other MC: naive and sweet. Which we would often critic - calling them weak but she had her own persona that would unleash as the story continues.
******
This story has everything: steamy romance, drama and suspense. It will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride with a quick rush of adrenaline that a reader can not get enough of it. It felt like watching a movie. Well written and I love how the characters developed throughout. It's refreshing to read something new for a change.
I'm eagerly waiting for the second part. Overall I found the book worthy of my time and money and absolutely loved it. I can't stop drooling over my imaginary Jake. He is a hottie😉
March 7, 2018
Deliciously dark and twisted! Kristen is a sometimes maddening but ultimately broken heroine. Jake is the long haired artist on the verge of breaking big, bartending to make ends meet in the meantime. Logan is the rich, manipulative, playboy husband Kristen is trying to leave. Both men love her in their own ways, some healthier than others....well, at least one has healthy intentions. Kristen is kind of a hot mess. The old song "Torn between two lovers, feeling like a fool..." comes to mind (yeah, if cheating is a hard line for you, this isn't the book for you.)
I don't do spoilers, but there are plenty of OMG moments, and at least as many WTFs. It does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I do feel the need to mention there are some really great supporting characters as well, and some rather creepy ones, and at least a couple I would like to know more about. Definitely not your typical safe and sweet little read - and I absolutely love that! There are some times that the characters seem a bit hard to follow - mostly when wandering through Kristen's mind...which will make sense as you get deeper into the story. Jake has some similar moments, but there are many hints that there are reasons for that (looking forward to peeling back the rest of the layers there.). Logan - sociopath comes to mind, maybe a touch of schitzophrenia as well. Lol, guess it's rather obvious which team I am on. Logan is a very interesting character though, don't get me wrong.
Take a chance on this new author! This story is refreshingly unique. While I sure wouldn't want to be any character in this book, I am looking forward to see what dark corners they will turn down next.
I don't do spoilers, but there are plenty of OMG moments, and at least as many WTFs. It does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I do feel the need to mention there are some really great supporting characters as well, and some rather creepy ones, and at least a couple I would like to know more about. Definitely not your typical safe and sweet little read - and I absolutely love that! There are some times that the characters seem a bit hard to follow - mostly when wandering through Kristen's mind...which will make sense as you get deeper into the story. Jake has some similar moments, but there are many hints that there are reasons for that (looking forward to peeling back the rest of the layers there.). Logan - sociopath comes to mind, maybe a touch of schitzophrenia as well. Lol, guess it's rather obvious which team I am on. Logan is a very interesting character though, don't get me wrong.
Take a chance on this new author! This story is refreshingly unique. While I sure wouldn't want to be any character in this book, I am looking forward to see what dark corners they will turn down next.
November 29, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book in the series and it does end with a cliff hanger. This book is not your typical happily ever after, it's true and its real. There is no prince charming and both guys have their flaws. Let's start with Logan, charming, slender, rich, physically abusive and likes to party with drugs and invite people into the spousal bed. Jake is sweet, down to earth, lives in a very shady area, purely loves Kris, has an angry side, and doesn't trust other men.
Kristen, I loved her and hated her through this whole book. She was weak and I can honestly relate with her but she put her self in situations that she didn't have to be in. I didn't really like any of the relationships, I think they are very hostile for her. She may be the one that makes it that way.
That Cliffhanger, it really got me! I really want to know what happens. Who will she actually choose Logan or Jake and will one of them ending up hurting her physically. I love the side relationships, I really think Marty and Ray will have a good shot, they both put up with the Jake and Kris! Personally, I think Logan and Gina are great together, they both crave certain things and she has a little bit of a bad side. I think Kris was like that in the beginning of her relationship with Logan.
I loved the writing and the detail into this book and I will say again I love the realism and the flaws! Great book!
Kristen, I loved her and hated her through this whole book. She was weak and I can honestly relate with her but she put her self in situations that she didn't have to be in. I didn't really like any of the relationships, I think they are very hostile for her. She may be the one that makes it that way.
That Cliffhanger, it really got me! I really want to know what happens. Who will she actually choose Logan or Jake and will one of them ending up hurting her physically. I love the side relationships, I really think Marty and Ray will have a good shot, they both put up with the Jake and Kris! Personally, I think Logan and Gina are great together, they both crave certain things and she has a little bit of a bad side. I think Kris was like that in the beginning of her relationship with Logan.
I loved the writing and the detail into this book and I will say again I love the realism and the flaws! Great book!
August 1, 2018
The author's "blurb" does not do this book justice. Holy Smokes what an absolutley crazy ride I just finished reading. The ups and downs, the back and forth AND the sideways!!!!! Love, hate and hate to love and everything in between.
Being the first installment---Yes a Cliffy-- it is well worth the read. So well written that you are so back and forth the next thing you know you have finished book 1 and it is over 350 pages!!! The only downside for me was that at times I felt like it was not going fast enough, I wanted to jump to the end but I didn't because I didn't want to miss anything.
Dark Romance, that is what the author called her book and it lives up to that name. The triangle that is made between these charatures is blinding, the chemestry made has sparks jumping off the page. And being Ms. Lynn's debuet novel---Amazing well done.
This book is not for everyone--dark, love triangle, and major psychological thriller if I ever read one.
***Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Being the first installment---Yes a Cliffy-- it is well worth the read. So well written that you are so back and forth the next thing you know you have finished book 1 and it is over 350 pages!!! The only downside for me was that at times I felt like it was not going fast enough, I wanted to jump to the end but I didn't because I didn't want to miss anything.
Dark Romance, that is what the author called her book and it lives up to that name. The triangle that is made between these charatures is blinding, the chemestry made has sparks jumping off the page. And being Ms. Lynn's debuet novel---Amazing well done.
This book is not for everyone--dark, love triangle, and major psychological thriller if I ever read one.
***Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2018
Three flawed people form a cracked and twisted love triangle in A War of Hearts. Kristen has something about her that attracts possessive men, and their broken edges fit her perfectly.
Logan is wealthy and powerful, but it’s the excitement of drugs and rough sex that pulls Kristen back to a man who might destroy her.
Jake seemed so different at first, but as the story unfolds he has some of the same dangerous issues as Logan, Kristen’s husband.
A War of Hearts begins sweet and moves quickly into a refreshingly different dark romance. I didn’t like Kristen, but I don’t think I was supposed to. Jake seemed so vulnerable at first, I wanted the best for him - but I don’t think that girl is Kristen. Stick with this story to the unpredictable end, then wait with me for the second book in the series.
I love the New York City backdrop of the story. It’s obvious that Karen Lynn spent time there and knows The City well. Her details are beautifully chosen, and give her writing a soul.
Logan is wealthy and powerful, but it’s the excitement of drugs and rough sex that pulls Kristen back to a man who might destroy her.
Jake seemed so different at first, but as the story unfolds he has some of the same dangerous issues as Logan, Kristen’s husband.
A War of Hearts begins sweet and moves quickly into a refreshingly different dark romance. I didn’t like Kristen, but I don’t think I was supposed to. Jake seemed so vulnerable at first, I wanted the best for him - but I don’t think that girl is Kristen. Stick with this story to the unpredictable end, then wait with me for the second book in the series.
I love the New York City backdrop of the story. It’s obvious that Karen Lynn spent time there and knows The City well. Her details are beautifully chosen, and give her writing a soul.
December 26, 2017
Everything you need for a great, engaging read. I loved reading this book as it captivated me from the start. I was entertained by the characters and fully caught up in all the relationships. The characters were extremely well done and really pulled you into their lives. The dialogue between all the characters were exceptional and the book is well paced.
Absolutely first rate piece of work and I cannot wait to read more from this author.
Absolutely first rate piece of work and I cannot wait to read more from this author.
July 19, 2018
Emotional Rollercoaster Trio
Kristin is an emotional mess. Jake thinks he can save her and logan...well he is just plum out of his mind. I gave this book five stars because I really could not find anything wrong with it. The author developed the characters so well that as I read this book. I wanted to scream, punch something and cry along with them. I encourage all to read this book and book 2. Never underestimate this author. She can write them with style.
Kristin is an emotional mess. Jake thinks he can save her and logan...well he is just plum out of his mind. I gave this book five stars because I really could not find anything wrong with it. The author developed the characters so well that as I read this book. I wanted to scream, punch something and cry along with them. I encourage all to read this book and book 2. Never underestimate this author. She can write them with style.
August 27, 2018
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
So, let me start by saying that this isn't my usual read. I'm not one for reading romantic dramas about abusive relationships. That said and bearing that in mind, let's get into it.
I'll start with the highlights - the author is very skilled at setting a scene. For the most part, the story takes place in New York City, and it feels at times that the city itself is a whole other character. Her descriptions are immersive and vivid, and the imagery she evokes easily pulls the reader in. My favorite scene is actually at the very beginning, when Kristen first meets Jake at a park, simply from the feel of it alone, and how striking her descriptions can be. Lynn's writing is consistent throughout, including in the way she characterizes the protagonists and assorted cast.
That being said, the characters themselves were a low point for me. It's very rare that I don't find a favorite, and in this case I didn't find any of the characters to be particularly likable, except maybe one or two of the very minor ones. But, the farther I got into the book, the more I felt like I wasn't supposed to like them. Every main character made decisions that made me want to shake sense into them. Kristen is quite possibly the most frustrating MC I've ever read, and I didn't find myself rooting for any of the people around her, either.
As someone who reads mostly fantasy and spec fic, I normally don't have trouble with suspension of belief but there was a lot that threw me out of this story when it came to the characters' behaviors. For one, I felt like the characters tended to act like teenagers instead of mature adults. The constant jealous rages and lack of general rational thought, though it served the plot, sometimes felt forced and unnecessary. Something else that really struck me, though it only happened once, was the idea that no one had a problem getting drunk in the middle of the work day in a law firm.
All in all, I feel like my opinion of this book comes from a "not my cup of tea" type of place. I didn't enjoy the story, but I know there's people out there who would. The three stars I'm giving the book stem from the writer's skill at description and setting, and the fact that, although I didn't like the characters, I will give the writer kudos for making me feel strongly about them. I also intend to read the sequel, in the hopes that the characters grow and learn from their many mistakes in the first installment.
For those who enjoy a bit of melodrama where characters constantly make bad decisions, this might just be your next great read!
So, let me start by saying that this isn't my usual read. I'm not one for reading romantic dramas about abusive relationships. That said and bearing that in mind, let's get into it.
I'll start with the highlights - the author is very skilled at setting a scene. For the most part, the story takes place in New York City, and it feels at times that the city itself is a whole other character. Her descriptions are immersive and vivid, and the imagery she evokes easily pulls the reader in. My favorite scene is actually at the very beginning, when Kristen first meets Jake at a park, simply from the feel of it alone, and how striking her descriptions can be. Lynn's writing is consistent throughout, including in the way she characterizes the protagonists and assorted cast.
That being said, the characters themselves were a low point for me. It's very rare that I don't find a favorite, and in this case I didn't find any of the characters to be particularly likable, except maybe one or two of the very minor ones. But, the farther I got into the book, the more I felt like I wasn't supposed to like them. Every main character made decisions that made me want to shake sense into them. Kristen is quite possibly the most frustrating MC I've ever read, and I didn't find myself rooting for any of the people around her, either.
As someone who reads mostly fantasy and spec fic, I normally don't have trouble with suspension of belief but there was a lot that threw me out of this story when it came to the characters' behaviors. For one, I felt like the characters tended to act like teenagers instead of mature adults. The constant jealous rages and lack of general rational thought, though it served the plot, sometimes felt forced and unnecessary. Something else that really struck me, though it only happened once, was the idea that no one had a problem getting drunk in the middle of the work day in a law firm.
All in all, I feel like my opinion of this book comes from a "not my cup of tea" type of place. I didn't enjoy the story, but I know there's people out there who would. The three stars I'm giving the book stem from the writer's skill at description and setting, and the fact that, although I didn't like the characters, I will give the writer kudos for making me feel strongly about them. I also intend to read the sequel, in the hopes that the characters grow and learn from their many mistakes in the first installment.
For those who enjoy a bit of melodrama where characters constantly make bad decisions, this might just be your next great read!
August 24, 2019
Fully Intense, heartbreaking, beautiful, soulful, and immensely satisfying read. This twisted tale will tangle you into a web that keeps you held tight to the story and falling head over heels in love with the gripping characters. The book is amazing and you won't want to put it down. Dark and erotic are my favorite reads and this one was right up there with some of my favorites. The subject matter is dark and you should know that going in but it is written in a clever and brilliantly unique way. This author captures the characters emotions, feelings, and heartbrake like no other. You will want to get this read now. I felt every emotion and was pulled in from the first chapter. Get you book now.
September 22, 2018
Ms Karen Lynn is a new author to me. After reading A War of Hearts, I will look forward to reading more from this author.
This book is about a dark love triangle, full of gut wrenching emotions, betrayal and so much intensity. I felt as if I was on a rollercoaster, my ups and downs kept me on the edge of my seat.
Her characters were strong and the storyline was amazing, the more I read the more I wanted. I could not put it down.
I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you Ms Karen Lynn for sharing your amazing talent with all your readers.
This book is about a dark love triangle, full of gut wrenching emotions, betrayal and so much intensity. I felt as if I was on a rollercoaster, my ups and downs kept me on the edge of my seat.
Her characters were strong and the storyline was amazing, the more I read the more I wanted. I could not put it down.
I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you Ms Karen Lynn for sharing your amazing talent with all your readers.
December 31, 2018
My first novel from the author and definitely not the last! This book takes you on a ride of a roller coaster and you are submerged into a dark web of addiction, obsession, lust, twisted turns and drama.
Highly recommend this book!
Highly recommend this book!
September 26, 2019
{I received this book in exchange for an honest review}
I DNF this book. These characters were so broken, awful and insecure. Every one of the relationships even the “good” one was painful to listen to. And the length of this book was painstakingly awful to drag out these horrible characters.
The audio for this book was good. It was smooth transitions between characters.
I DNF this book. These characters were so broken, awful and insecure. Every one of the relationships even the “good” one was painful to listen to. And the length of this book was painstakingly awful to drag out these horrible characters.
The audio for this book was good. It was smooth transitions between characters.
December 28, 2018
Great storyline, I’ve not read/listened to a book like this before. I’m not sure if I want to hug or slap the leading lady though! She’s very frustrating and has complicated emotional issues. If you like your books with lots of twists and turns this is the book for you. Looking forward to book 2.
April 11, 2019
Amazing story,
Dark, thriller with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. All in all a pretty amazing audiobook. Highly recommend giving it a listen!
Dark, thriller with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. All in all a pretty amazing audiobook. Highly recommend giving it a listen!
June 14, 2019
Kristen
Holy crap!! Incredibly twisted and dark leaving you debating which way you want poor Kristen to chose. A non stop must read
Holy crap!! Incredibly twisted and dark leaving you debating which way you want poor Kristen to chose. A non stop must read
November 27, 2018
❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈❈*”˜˜”*❈*”˜˜”*❈❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈
A WAR OF HEARTS IS A RAW, GRITTY, INTENSE SUSPENSEFUL PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER WITH ALL THE FIXIN’S. 4 STARS
❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈❈*”˜˜”*❈*”˜˜”*❈❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈
A War of Hearts, book 1 of The Dark Romance Psychological Thriller series by Author Karen Lynn is a raw, gritty, intense, and suspenseful psychological thriller. The title perfectly describes what this story is all about.
A chance meeting in Central Park forever alters the course of three lives and becomes a manipulative game of psychological warfare and a fight for survival.
Kristen is and has been married to Logan for years and has decided she’s had enough abuse and leaves him. Ah…. if it were only that easy. Her actions set her on a collision course with danger that could cost her EVERYTHING. She gave me a run for my money. I have mixed feelings about her to be honest. She’s a fickle heroine and makes reckless decisions, goes against the advice of her attorneys and had me pulling my hair out. She leaves Logan, is strong, sometimes stands up to him, then she switches and goes back to him…. Like some many do in abusive relationships. All the while, stringing poor Jake along and at times, he never even knew it.
Then I remember that real life can be brutal and decisions can often be difficult to make not to mention very risky when you have been subjected to abuse over and over again. I am keeping the fact that’s she’s been in an abusive relationship with Logan and has been with him for so long and is connected with him because of that and it’s hard to let go. Maybe she “wants” to end her marriage, maybe not.
Logan is a delusional, narcissistic, lying, cheating, manipulative little weasel as well as an abusive husband to Kristen. For me, Logan is the most interesting of the three characters. He’s a lunatic. His creepy behavior set me on edge more than a few times. Whenever he shows up in the story, I cringe and know it won’t be good. His inner dialogue with himself is brilliantly written. He’s completely psycho. He just scares the crap out of me and that’s why I love to hate him. He’s the villain in this story an you don’t want to piss him off that’s for sure.
Jake is a struggling, but very talented up and coming hot as hell artist who also works as a bartender on the side to make ends meet. Jake, the ever protector, manages to steal Kristen’s heart and gift her with a promise of a new future filled with hope, love and loyalty. He’s everything Logan isn’t and that’s very appealing to Kristen. He also has some anger and trust issues and is fighting his own demons. I really love Jake’s character. He’s very easy to love. He’s the Hero in this story.
Kristen, Logan and Jake are three seriously flawed characters and are at times, absolutely infuriating. They will test your limits. At least they did for me. They all lack a bit of maturity in the way they each handle things. However, those flaws are what drives this story. To me, without the flaws, the story couldn’t be written.
This is not a pretty story with a big bow on top. This story deals with real life issues such as abuse, trauma, lies, cheating, fear and danger, Danger, DANGER.
What I find so interesting about this story is that the author spins the characters in a real-life fashion. Each of the three characters’ lives are so different from the others. But the biggest thing for me is how vulnerable each one of them really is. Because of that vulnerability, trust becomes a huge issue for each of them.
A War of Hearts starts off slow for the first half of the book. Allowing the reader to get to know the nuances of each character. The good, the bad and the ugly. As I mentioned earlier, each character is extremely flawed, insecure, some more serious than others and that causes a serious threat.
The second half picked up the pace with interesting events that had my heart beating a bit faster and wanting to read more. One event in particular, one I won’t get into because I don’t want to spoil the fun for other readers, left me reeling with frustration, anger and sadness. I wanted to SCREAM “NO NO NO!! That did NOT just happen!!!”.
Lives, both old and new are put in grave danger and by the end of book one I found myself in denial of what just happened….. Thus, leaving me hanging off a cliffhanger.
Who will come out victorious in this war of hearts? Kristen, Logan or Jake? Hmmmm…. No one comes out of this 4 star, all too real love triangle unscathed. I guess I have to wait until book 2, A Sea of Smoke to get my answers.
So go grab your copy of A War Of Hearts and hop on board this crazy train love triangle.
A WAR OF HEARTS IS A RAW, GRITTY, INTENSE SUSPENSEFUL PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER WITH ALL THE FIXIN’S. 4 STARS
❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈❈*”˜˜”*❈*”˜˜”*❈❈*💥❈ 💥❈ 💥❈💥 ❈*💥❈
A War of Hearts, book 1 of The Dark Romance Psychological Thriller series by Author Karen Lynn is a raw, gritty, intense, and suspenseful psychological thriller. The title perfectly describes what this story is all about.
A chance meeting in Central Park forever alters the course of three lives and becomes a manipulative game of psychological warfare and a fight for survival.
Kristen is and has been married to Logan for years and has decided she’s had enough abuse and leaves him. Ah…. if it were only that easy. Her actions set her on a collision course with danger that could cost her EVERYTHING. She gave me a run for my money. I have mixed feelings about her to be honest. She’s a fickle heroine and makes reckless decisions, goes against the advice of her attorneys and had me pulling my hair out. She leaves Logan, is strong, sometimes stands up to him, then she switches and goes back to him…. Like some many do in abusive relationships. All the while, stringing poor Jake along and at times, he never even knew it.
Then I remember that real life can be brutal and decisions can often be difficult to make not to mention very risky when you have been subjected to abuse over and over again. I am keeping the fact that’s she’s been in an abusive relationship with Logan and has been with him for so long and is connected with him because of that and it’s hard to let go. Maybe she “wants” to end her marriage, maybe not.
Logan is a delusional, narcissistic, lying, cheating, manipulative little weasel as well as an abusive husband to Kristen. For me, Logan is the most interesting of the three characters. He’s a lunatic. His creepy behavior set me on edge more than a few times. Whenever he shows up in the story, I cringe and know it won’t be good. His inner dialogue with himself is brilliantly written. He’s completely psycho. He just scares the crap out of me and that’s why I love to hate him. He’s the villain in this story an you don’t want to piss him off that’s for sure.
Jake is a struggling, but very talented up and coming hot as hell artist who also works as a bartender on the side to make ends meet. Jake, the ever protector, manages to steal Kristen’s heart and gift her with a promise of a new future filled with hope, love and loyalty. He’s everything Logan isn’t and that’s very appealing to Kristen. He also has some anger and trust issues and is fighting his own demons. I really love Jake’s character. He’s very easy to love. He’s the Hero in this story.
Kristen, Logan and Jake are three seriously flawed characters and are at times, absolutely infuriating. They will test your limits. At least they did for me. They all lack a bit of maturity in the way they each handle things. However, those flaws are what drives this story. To me, without the flaws, the story couldn’t be written.
This is not a pretty story with a big bow on top. This story deals with real life issues such as abuse, trauma, lies, cheating, fear and danger, Danger, DANGER.
What I find so interesting about this story is that the author spins the characters in a real-life fashion. Each of the three characters’ lives are so different from the others. But the biggest thing for me is how vulnerable each one of them really is. Because of that vulnerability, trust becomes a huge issue for each of them.
A War of Hearts starts off slow for the first half of the book. Allowing the reader to get to know the nuances of each character. The good, the bad and the ugly. As I mentioned earlier, each character is extremely flawed, insecure, some more serious than others and that causes a serious threat.
The second half picked up the pace with interesting events that had my heart beating a bit faster and wanting to read more. One event in particular, one I won’t get into because I don’t want to spoil the fun for other readers, left me reeling with frustration, anger and sadness. I wanted to SCREAM “NO NO NO!! That did NOT just happen!!!”.
Lives, both old and new are put in grave danger and by the end of book one I found myself in denial of what just happened….. Thus, leaving me hanging off a cliffhanger.
Who will come out victorious in this war of hearts? Kristen, Logan or Jake? Hmmmm…. No one comes out of this 4 star, all too real love triangle unscathed. I guess I have to wait until book 2, A Sea of Smoke to get my answers.
So go grab your copy of A War Of Hearts and hop on board this crazy train love triangle.
May 3, 2019
I thought this book was going to be about a love triangle and typical jealous husband, abuser etc…WOW, I was WAY OFF! The characters in the book swept me up immediately! Kristen is married to Logan and miserable! They have been married for twelve years and once had a “wild” way of life that involved others. She is tired of it and wants it to be just them, but he will not stand for it. He is on drugs and alcohol and is very dangerous to her. Then, she meets Jake! Sexy, irresistible, sweet, courageous and instant connection. They hook up! She moves in! Now starts a dangerous game of seeing two people at once! So many secrets and betrayals! But, the twisted darkness comes through in Kristen, Logan and Jake as they run parallel to one another! We discover some things about Jake’s and Kristen’s past that make them the way they are. Logan, we do not learn about so much except from the time he meets Kristen to now! The writer weaves an intriguing intricate web that keeps spinning! I sincerely applaud Ms. Lynn on how she gets the reactions down pat for each of the character portrayals. This book kept me in my seat until I reached the end which is a cliffhanger! Kristen discovers a terrible truth and is trapped! You will be asking yourself..who is the real victim? Who is the real abuser? Who is the real manipulator? It seems they all have this in each of them! You will DEFINITELY not want to miss out on the BRILLIANT and exciting way this author will draw you into a psychological dark story! The book also contains many steamy scenes as well!
Here is the real reason why this is tagged as a “psychological and dark” book! I read some of the reviews and what many do not understand is the reality of domestic violence, incest, rape and what it does to the victims. Also, the abusers are usually alcoholics or use drugs! Kristen may come off as loose and no morals, but in reality as an abuse victim from a young age, some seeks solace through relations and mix up love and acceptance through “physical contact”. The abuser is about control and will do whatever it takes to beat someone down enough in any way to keep that control. It is not often the victim will leave the abuser or find someone decent. That is what makes the story so realistic! All the actions and reactions of the three main characters are on par! Even the drugs and alcohol, thought processes, arguments, and inner feelings displayed will definitely be familiar with those who experienced this way of life. Readers will be able to decipher the depth of the characters the author portrays in these books and will be able to connect all the pieces of the puzzle throughout. Those who cannot must take a step back and realize the true story they read in between the pages. Whoever has been in an abusive relationship will recognize all the signs in the characters. Many will think the book is all over the place when in reality it is building up to the next book!
Here is the real reason why this is tagged as a “psychological and dark” book! I read some of the reviews and what many do not understand is the reality of domestic violence, incest, rape and what it does to the victims. Also, the abusers are usually alcoholics or use drugs! Kristen may come off as loose and no morals, but in reality as an abuse victim from a young age, some seeks solace through relations and mix up love and acceptance through “physical contact”. The abuser is about control and will do whatever it takes to beat someone down enough in any way to keep that control. It is not often the victim will leave the abuser or find someone decent. That is what makes the story so realistic! All the actions and reactions of the three main characters are on par! Even the drugs and alcohol, thought processes, arguments, and inner feelings displayed will definitely be familiar with those who experienced this way of life. Readers will be able to decipher the depth of the characters the author portrays in these books and will be able to connect all the pieces of the puzzle throughout. Those who cannot must take a step back and realize the true story they read in between the pages. Whoever has been in an abusive relationship will recognize all the signs in the characters. Many will think the book is all over the place when in reality it is building up to the next book!
June 24, 2020
I listened to this on audiobook.
War of Hearts by Karen Lynn is the first book in the Hearts in Torment series. The author Karen is completely new to me but given the addictive sounding blurb, I decided to give the first book a go.
The story centers around three characters, main character being Kristen. It's highly addictive story telling, lots of drama, suspense, violence, sex, abusive behaviour, dark and alluring. I liked how the story swapped from character perspective, i.e Kristen/Jake and then Kristen/Logan. You certainly get a real feel for the characters this way.
Some of my thoughts from book one are as follows (it'll be interesting to see how these thoughts change or develop as I continue the series with books two and three):-
I can completely understand why Kristen is trying to escape Logan, he is abusive, sex obessed, controlling, possessive, violent and manipulative. Certainly not qualities you'd want in a boyfriend/husband. He's also unfaithful in the sex department but then so is Kristen.
I wanted to feel sorry for Kristen, she kept saying she wants to end things with Logan, go ahead with the separation but then she can't say no to Logan, despite the power that he seems to hold over her, she hardly even tries. I literally wanted to scream at Kristen at times, found her to be very stupid and very gullible.
Knowing the sort of man that Logan was, his bad traits/behaviour I was quite expecting Jake to be the complete opposite to Logan. But nope, they are both bad boys, sex obessed, possessive and manipulative. So I really couldn't understand why Kristen fell so hard for him. Maybe as I continue with book two, Jake will have a chance to redeem himself in my eyes.
As for Kristen, to be honest, it was like she liked having both Logan & Jake vying for her attention and getting to have sex with both of them. Talk about having your cake and eating it. She's literally two timing on both the guys.
Come the end of book one, things between Kristen and Jake take an unexpected turn, all thanks to Logan's interference. As for Kristen, a shocking relevation means she's back to where she started with Logan and yet this relevation changes everything. I'm looking forward to finding out in book two as to what she'll do, will she continue her downward spiral with Logan or will she fight and come out on top so as to get control of her life back.
As for Logan, we see an even more darker side to him when he does something that he'll never be able to come back from. Not sure how that turn of events will change his life or what it means for him and Kristen, guess we'll discover more in book two.
Be warned readers, this isn't a stand-alone book and there is a cliff hanger at the end of this book. I'm so glad I've got book two to move on to once I'm ready to do so.
War of Hearts by Karen Lynn is the first book in the Hearts in Torment series. The author Karen is completely new to me but given the addictive sounding blurb, I decided to give the first book a go.
The story centers around three characters, main character being Kristen. It's highly addictive story telling, lots of drama, suspense, violence, sex, abusive behaviour, dark and alluring. I liked how the story swapped from character perspective, i.e Kristen/Jake and then Kristen/Logan. You certainly get a real feel for the characters this way.
Some of my thoughts from book one are as follows (it'll be interesting to see how these thoughts change or develop as I continue the series with books two and three):-
I can completely understand why Kristen is trying to escape Logan, he is abusive, sex obessed, controlling, possessive, violent and manipulative. Certainly not qualities you'd want in a boyfriend/husband. He's also unfaithful in the sex department but then so is Kristen.
I wanted to feel sorry for Kristen, she kept saying she wants to end things with Logan, go ahead with the separation but then she can't say no to Logan, despite the power that he seems to hold over her, she hardly even tries. I literally wanted to scream at Kristen at times, found her to be very stupid and very gullible.
Knowing the sort of man that Logan was, his bad traits/behaviour I was quite expecting Jake to be the complete opposite to Logan. But nope, they are both bad boys, sex obessed, possessive and manipulative. So I really couldn't understand why Kristen fell so hard for him. Maybe as I continue with book two, Jake will have a chance to redeem himself in my eyes.
As for Kristen, to be honest, it was like she liked having both Logan & Jake vying for her attention and getting to have sex with both of them. Talk about having your cake and eating it. She's literally two timing on both the guys.
Come the end of book one, things between Kristen and Jake take an unexpected turn, all thanks to Logan's interference. As for Kristen, a shocking relevation means she's back to where she started with Logan and yet this relevation changes everything. I'm looking forward to finding out in book two as to what she'll do, will she continue her downward spiral with Logan or will she fight and come out on top so as to get control of her life back.
As for Logan, we see an even more darker side to him when he does something that he'll never be able to come back from. Not sure how that turn of events will change his life or what it means for him and Kristen, guess we'll discover more in book two.
Be warned readers, this isn't a stand-alone book and there is a cliff hanger at the end of this book. I'm so glad I've got book two to move on to once I'm ready to do so.
May 2, 2019
A War of Hearts: A Dark Romantic Psychological Thriller (Hearts in Torment Book 1) by Karen Lynn
This is about three tragically flawed people caught up in a dysfunctional love triangle. Kristen is married to Logan but after years of abuse and his failed promises to change she has finally had enough. Needing time to breathe she decides to go to Central Park to be alone. There she meets Jake who heard her crying and came to see if she was alright. They hit it off and before she realized they were kissing. He didn't want it to end so he invited her back to his place she turned him down but accepted to go for coffee the next day. They end up at his apartment and things turn hot and heavy and spent the rest of the day together.
Jake a starving artist and bartender who wants to open his own art gallery. He is flawed in his own way but still wants to save her. He is loyal,determined to be there for forever. Things feel good for a while then he becomes possessive and jealous when Logan shows up his temper flares and their arguments increase.
Logan is wealthy,charismatic, devious, manipulative,abusive, delusional psychopath that is addicted to drugs, alcohol and rough sex who will stop at nothing to get her back. He is truly twisted and when he's around you know something bad is about to happen. Kristen is torn between both men wanting and needing to leave her husband but still drawn to him and the chemistry and new love for Jake leaves her shaken with fear he will leave her. She is so wishy washy at times I wanted to shake her it absolutely drove me nuts. The story dragged on at times,but didn't take away from the overall feeling of the book. There is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end. The secondary characters were well written and I hope we will learn more about them in book 2 Sea of Smoke.
Four 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is about three tragically flawed people caught up in a dysfunctional love triangle. Kristen is married to Logan but after years of abuse and his failed promises to change she has finally had enough. Needing time to breathe she decides to go to Central Park to be alone. There she meets Jake who heard her crying and came to see if she was alright. They hit it off and before she realized they were kissing. He didn't want it to end so he invited her back to his place she turned him down but accepted to go for coffee the next day. They end up at his apartment and things turn hot and heavy and spent the rest of the day together.
Jake a starving artist and bartender who wants to open his own art gallery. He is flawed in his own way but still wants to save her. He is loyal,determined to be there for forever. Things feel good for a while then he becomes possessive and jealous when Logan shows up his temper flares and their arguments increase.
Logan is wealthy,charismatic, devious, manipulative,abusive, delusional psychopath that is addicted to drugs, alcohol and rough sex who will stop at nothing to get her back. He is truly twisted and when he's around you know something bad is about to happen. Kristen is torn between both men wanting and needing to leave her husband but still drawn to him and the chemistry and new love for Jake leaves her shaken with fear he will leave her. She is so wishy washy at times I wanted to shake her it absolutely drove me nuts. The story dragged on at times,but didn't take away from the overall feeling of the book. There is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end. The secondary characters were well written and I hope we will learn more about them in book 2 Sea of Smoke.
Four 🌟🌟🌟🌟
February 18, 2018
Review Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Three very flawed characters make for intense and tumultuous relationships
I received an Advance Reader Copy for A War of Hearts: A Dark Romance written by Karen Lynn and voluntarily reviewed this book. This is the first installment of this series, where the scene is set with Jake celebrating his 30th birthday alone in Central Park, relishing his temporary reprieve from life, when he notices a woman who was quite visibly upset. He is instantly drawn to her but is content enough to make a date to meet Kristen for coffee the next day. However, when Kristen returns home to Brooklyn, she is thrown right back into the abusive mess with her husband Logan of twelve years she was hoping to be able to leave.
Kristen is very emotionally manipulable throughout the story, but she appears to know what she wants at the time, albeit not seemingly capable of following through with making the right decisions for herself in all their interactions. It is clear that her heart seems to be still quite torn between both men; Logan, with whom she has known for many years and still has feelings for, and Jake, the man she now is more drawn to because he needs her, but both men are becoming more possessive and jealous over her. As an artist now slowly finding success, Jake’s level of insane jealousy and distrust of Kris’ contact with Logan is starting to spiral out of control, and it would be interesting to read just how that will affect the relationship, as well as the secondary characters which seem to also function as angels or devils to tug either Kris, Logan, and Jake one way or another, influenced by their vices as well.
Three very flawed characters make for intense and tumultuous relationships
I received an Advance Reader Copy for A War of Hearts: A Dark Romance written by Karen Lynn and voluntarily reviewed this book. This is the first installment of this series, where the scene is set with Jake celebrating his 30th birthday alone in Central Park, relishing his temporary reprieve from life, when he notices a woman who was quite visibly upset. He is instantly drawn to her but is content enough to make a date to meet Kristen for coffee the next day. However, when Kristen returns home to Brooklyn, she is thrown right back into the abusive mess with her husband Logan of twelve years she was hoping to be able to leave.
Kristen is very emotionally manipulable throughout the story, but she appears to know what she wants at the time, albeit not seemingly capable of following through with making the right decisions for herself in all their interactions. It is clear that her heart seems to be still quite torn between both men; Logan, with whom she has known for many years and still has feelings for, and Jake, the man she now is more drawn to because he needs her, but both men are becoming more possessive and jealous over her. As an artist now slowly finding success, Jake’s level of insane jealousy and distrust of Kris’ contact with Logan is starting to spiral out of control, and it would be interesting to read just how that will affect the relationship, as well as the secondary characters which seem to also function as angels or devils to tug either Kris, Logan, and Jake one way or another, influenced by their vices as well.
February 19, 2018
Review Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Three very flawed characters make for intense and tumultuous relationships
I received an Advance Reader Copy for A War of Hearts: A Dark Romance written by Karen Lynn and voluntarily reviewed this book. This is the first installment of this series, where the scene is set with Jake celebrating his 30th birthday alone in Central Park, relishing his temporary reprieve from life, when he notices a woman who was quite visibly upset. He is instantly drawn to her but is content enough to make a date to meet Kristen for coffee the next day. However, when Kristen returns home to Brooklyn, she is thrown right back into the abusive mess with her husband Logan of twelve years she was hoping to be able to leave.
Kristen is very emotionally manipulable throughout the story, but she appears to know what she wants at the time, albeit not seemingly capable of following through with making the right decisions for herself in all their interactions. It is clear that her heart seems to be still quite torn between both men; Logan, with whom she has known for many years and still has feelings for, and Jake, the man she now is more drawn to because he needs her, but both men are becoming more possessive and jealous over her. As an artist now slowly finding success, Jake’s level of insane jealousy and distrust of Kris’ contact with Logan is starting to spiral out of control, and it would be interesting to read just how that will affect the relationship, as well as the secondary characters which seem to also function as angels or devils to tug either Kris, Logan, and Jake one way or another, influenced by their vices as well.
Three very flawed characters make for intense and tumultuous relationships
I received an Advance Reader Copy for A War of Hearts: A Dark Romance written by Karen Lynn and voluntarily reviewed this book. This is the first installment of this series, where the scene is set with Jake celebrating his 30th birthday alone in Central Park, relishing his temporary reprieve from life, when he notices a woman who was quite visibly upset. He is instantly drawn to her but is content enough to make a date to meet Kristen for coffee the next day. However, when Kristen returns home to Brooklyn, she is thrown right back into the abusive mess with her husband Logan of twelve years she was hoping to be able to leave.
Kristen is very emotionally manipulable throughout the story, but she appears to know what she wants at the time, albeit not seemingly capable of following through with making the right decisions for herself in all their interactions. It is clear that her heart seems to be still quite torn between both men; Logan, with whom she has known for many years and still has feelings for, and Jake, the man she now is more drawn to because he needs her, but both men are becoming more possessive and jealous over her. As an artist now slowly finding success, Jake’s level of insane jealousy and distrust of Kris’ contact with Logan is starting to spiral out of control, and it would be interesting to read just how that will affect the relationship, as well as the secondary characters which seem to also function as angels or devils to tug either Kris, Logan, and Jake one way or another, influenced by their vices as well.
August 31, 2021
Story starts off with Kristen in NYC park by herself and a random person Jake realizing its not safe for someone to be in central park alone mentions it to her trying to prevent her from getting hurt. Somehow they end up talking more and wanting to see more of each other. This leads to an affair since Kristen is married. Within a week Kristen is getting a divorce from Logan and their abusive sex ladder (Kristen sleeps Logan's partner Nik to get him more popular within his career) of a relationship. She jumps into Jakes live in his scummy apartment. Its a lot of drama within Logan wanting her back and Jake and Kristen trying to get to know each other having multiple mini fights and disagreements since their jumping together without knowing anything about each other. I agree with other reviewers these adults don't know how to act like adults i just want to shake Kristen and tell her wtf man so much unnecessary drama.
As Kristen tries to break free from Logan she has some doubts as she thinks he can change like he claims he can. Also Logan being the nasty little bug he is doesn't believe that Kristen wants to leave him and doesn't want to let her go. He threatens his fling Gina's life when she references his wife as a "slut-wife" when she questions his loyalties to her. After this Gina-Logan blow out they take a mini break which is never good for Logan leaving him alone with his own thoughts. Which leads him to realize the only way to get Kirsten back for good is to get rid of Jake once and for all.
But I couldn't stop listening and needed to know how it ended which left me wanting to continue the series. Cant wait to dive into book 2!
As Kristen tries to break free from Logan she has some doubts as she thinks he can change like he claims he can. Also Logan being the nasty little bug he is doesn't believe that Kristen wants to leave him and doesn't want to let her go. He threatens his fling Gina's life when she references his wife as a "slut-wife" when she questions his loyalties to her. After this Gina-Logan blow out they take a mini break which is never good for Logan leaving him alone with his own thoughts. Which leads him to realize the only way to get Kirsten back for good is to get rid of Jake once and for all.
But I couldn't stop listening and needed to know how it ended which left me wanting to continue the series. Cant wait to dive into book 2!
December 22, 2018
Intense & Explosive! 4.5🎧Thrilling Stars 🎧🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A War of Hearts
A Dark Romantic Psychological Thriller
By: Karen Lynn
Narrated by: Claire Riley
A twisted and dark story, with twisted and dark characters. It is well written and detail orientated. Karen Lynn takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, creates storylines with so much tension, turmoil, lies, abuse, passion and drama. Characters are well developed, each flawed and dealing with their own inner demons and issues. I am not sure if I want to feel bad for Kristen or give her a smack to get a grip, wise up and get far away from Logan. Logan, is bad news and the worst of the three, he is a devious and abusive person, a master manipulator. Jake, is a much nicer person in this triangle, hopefully he can tame his anger, lose his insecurities and wise up too. Of the 3 characters I am rooting for him to come out on top. Flaws and all he is still too good for Kristin, but sometimes you just can’t help who you love, toxic or not. This is not a happy-go-lucky feel good story, it is a psychological thriller, an intense & suspenseful one. One that sucks you in from the very start and captivates you to the very end. It makes you want to know what will happen next.
I listened to the audible edition, Claire Riley does a great job narrating. She performs the voices of all the characters, switches vocals effortlessly and tells the story in a perfect flow with he right amount of dramatic flair. Thank you for a great listen!
Thank you 🎧AudiobookObsession
A War of Hearts
A Dark Romantic Psychological Thriller
By: Karen Lynn
Narrated by: Claire Riley
A twisted and dark story, with twisted and dark characters. It is well written and detail orientated. Karen Lynn takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, creates storylines with so much tension, turmoil, lies, abuse, passion and drama. Characters are well developed, each flawed and dealing with their own inner demons and issues. I am not sure if I want to feel bad for Kristen or give her a smack to get a grip, wise up and get far away from Logan. Logan, is bad news and the worst of the three, he is a devious and abusive person, a master manipulator. Jake, is a much nicer person in this triangle, hopefully he can tame his anger, lose his insecurities and wise up too. Of the 3 characters I am rooting for him to come out on top. Flaws and all he is still too good for Kristin, but sometimes you just can’t help who you love, toxic or not. This is not a happy-go-lucky feel good story, it is a psychological thriller, an intense & suspenseful one. One that sucks you in from the very start and captivates you to the very end. It makes you want to know what will happen next.
I listened to the audible edition, Claire Riley does a great job narrating. She performs the voices of all the characters, switches vocals effortlessly and tells the story in a perfect flow with he right amount of dramatic flair. Thank you for a great listen!
Thank you 🎧AudiobookObsession
April 27, 2025
I was drawn to A War of Hearts by the promise of a dark, tangled love triangle—especially the idea of Logan, the self-destructive, obsessive man lost in sex, alcohol, and drugs.
At first, I was intrigued. Logan was the most interesting character for me, and some of the steamier scenes between him and Kristen really captured the darker vibe I was hoping for. I liked the raw glimpses of him, even though I wish the story had gone deeper into how the drugs and chaos were impacting him emotionally.
But by the 40% mark, I found myself struggling. The dynamic between Kristen and Jake—especially Jake’s jealousy and emotional volatility—started to wear me down. Kristen’s reactions felt too volatile, the tension between the characters began to feel repetitive, and the overall pacing dragged for me.
While the writing style itself was smooth, and I enjoyed the natural switch of POV between Kristen and Jake, I couldn't find enough chemistry between Kristen and either man to stay emotionally invested. The casual portrayal of heavy drug use also pulled me out of the story—it felt too minimized given the heavy themes.
In the end, I had to step away. I almost regret not finishing, because I still wanted to see what would happen to Logan. But the characters’ behavior had become too frustrating, and it felt like real change was still a long way off.
I think readers who enjoy slow-burning, messy emotional entanglements and don't mind toxic dynamics treated a little lightly might really connect with this story. It just wasn’t the right fit for me.
At first, I was intrigued. Logan was the most interesting character for me, and some of the steamier scenes between him and Kristen really captured the darker vibe I was hoping for. I liked the raw glimpses of him, even though I wish the story had gone deeper into how the drugs and chaos were impacting him emotionally.
But by the 40% mark, I found myself struggling. The dynamic between Kristen and Jake—especially Jake’s jealousy and emotional volatility—started to wear me down. Kristen’s reactions felt too volatile, the tension between the characters began to feel repetitive, and the overall pacing dragged for me.
While the writing style itself was smooth, and I enjoyed the natural switch of POV between Kristen and Jake, I couldn't find enough chemistry between Kristen and either man to stay emotionally invested. The casual portrayal of heavy drug use also pulled me out of the story—it felt too minimized given the heavy themes.
In the end, I had to step away. I almost regret not finishing, because I still wanted to see what would happen to Logan. But the characters’ behavior had become too frustrating, and it felt like real change was still a long way off.
I think readers who enjoy slow-burning, messy emotional entanglements and don't mind toxic dynamics treated a little lightly might really connect with this story. It just wasn’t the right fit for me.
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