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Heart of the Hunted
Autumn's future is on the line when a courier never shows up to retrieve weapons her family created for nobles of a northern kingdom, and those nobles dislike waiting. With no choice, Autumn sets out to deliver them herself, but she's never been outside the kingdom of Lohr, and dark magic is loose in the country of Catalan. Creatures long extinct have attacked villages, and her journey quickly becomes more about survival than adventure.
The Queen has ordered Sahlyn to bring her Autumn's heart after the magic mirror conjured her vision, but the young woman nearly plunges a blade through his instead. That is after she saves his life.
With a life debt owed, Sahlyn produces a plan to trick the Queen into thinking he's killed the girl. But, despite the repercussions his failure will bring him, he lets the maiden go free.
Sparks fly when they are reunited on a perilous quest to find a legendary weapon that will end the Queen's murderous reign once and for all.
~ Please note this is an adult-themed book for a mature audience. There are dark themes and sexual content.
~ For fans of strong female protagonists, morally grey characters, adventure fantasy, happily ever afters, fairytale retellings, and romantic fantasy.
The Queen has ordered Sahlyn to bring her Autumn's heart after the magic mirror conjured her vision, but the young woman nearly plunges a blade through his instead. That is after she saves his life.
With a life debt owed, Sahlyn produces a plan to trick the Queen into thinking he's killed the girl. But, despite the repercussions his failure will bring him, he lets the maiden go free.
Sparks fly when they are reunited on a perilous quest to find a legendary weapon that will end the Queen's murderous reign once and for all.
~ Please note this is an adult-themed book for a mature audience. There are dark themes and sexual content.
~ For fans of strong female protagonists, morally grey characters, adventure fantasy, happily ever afters, fairytale retellings, and romantic fantasy.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2022
28 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 6, 2022
I admit that I struggled to get into this novel because I thought it was too quick at times and too draggy at others.
The take on a twisted and dark Snow White retelling is good. I liked the world, the magic, and the other elements that tied the plot together. Although it was not the typical route for a Snow White retelling, I would say that part was unique and truly intriguing to me.
On to the part I liked best: the characters, which I thought were well-written enough to make me care about and root for them until the end. I also liked the characteristics that make them up and wished for more of them as the story progressed.
Aside from that, I enjoyed the climax, which was thankfully not anticlimactic, but I wished it had been much more than what the novel provided.
Overall, I thought this was a good take on Snow White; the plot weaving was unique and compelling. I'd also like to read a novella about Queen Amira and the other witch; they're intriguing. 3.75 ⭐
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓'𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
The take on a twisted and dark Snow White retelling is good. I liked the world, the magic, and the other elements that tied the plot together. Although it was not the typical route for a Snow White retelling, I would say that part was unique and truly intriguing to me.
On to the part I liked best: the characters, which I thought were well-written enough to make me care about and root for them until the end. I also liked the characteristics that make them up and wished for more of them as the story progressed.
Aside from that, I enjoyed the climax, which was thankfully not anticlimactic, but I wished it had been much more than what the novel provided.
Overall, I thought this was a good take on Snow White; the plot weaving was unique and compelling. I'd also like to read a novella about Queen Amira and the other witch; they're intriguing. 3.75 ⭐
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓'𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
August 22, 2022
Heart of the Hunted is a retelling of Snow White as a dark fantasy romance with many of the known characters present: the evil queen, the huntsman, dwarves, the magic mirror.
The story is told through the eyes of Autumn Snow (Snow White) and Sahlyn Asher, the queen's huntsman. Autumn is the daughter of a weaponsmith, learning his trade, and as such was trained to be able to wield the blades she and her father forge. So not the Snow White you might be used to, but a strong female main character. She sets out to deliver the latest batch of weapons. Sahlyn is the queen's huntsman, tasked with killing everyone the queens points him to (or rather shows him in the mirror). The latest is one Autumn Snow...
Thorne's spin on this tale is rather unique and I really enjoyed it. It's action-packed, rather fast-paced (when the mcs are not in the middle of looking the other one up and down ;-) ) and has two wonderfully complementing main characters. I should probably add that I am usually not a romance-reader - I don't mind romance in my books but they are preferably not the center of the story. That being said even though the romance was definitely there, the story was so good that I didn't mind. I enjoyed Thorne's writing, the worldbuilding (or rather the twist on it), the convincing characters, and did I mention an animal companion?!
If you mind let's call it "heavy / graphic romance", this might not be for you, though.
It's definitely a fun read.
The story is told through the eyes of Autumn Snow (Snow White) and Sahlyn Asher, the queen's huntsman. Autumn is the daughter of a weaponsmith, learning his trade, and as such was trained to be able to wield the blades she and her father forge. So not the Snow White you might be used to, but a strong female main character. She sets out to deliver the latest batch of weapons. Sahlyn is the queen's huntsman, tasked with killing everyone the queens points him to (or rather shows him in the mirror). The latest is one Autumn Snow...
Thorne's spin on this tale is rather unique and I really enjoyed it. It's action-packed, rather fast-paced (when the mcs are not in the middle of looking the other one up and down ;-) ) and has two wonderfully complementing main characters. I should probably add that I am usually not a romance-reader - I don't mind romance in my books but they are preferably not the center of the story. That being said even though the romance was definitely there, the story was so good that I didn't mind. I enjoyed Thorne's writing, the worldbuilding (or rather the twist on it), the convincing characters, and did I mention an animal companion?!
If you mind let's call it "heavy / graphic romance", this might not be for you, though.
It's definitely a fun read.
September 30, 2022
This was a formidable escape into a fantasy world, featuring a retelling of Snow White. I'm not a big fan of the disney version of Snow White but this was everything the tale should be. A strong female, a loyal and loving huntsman, funny and hearty dwarves and curses to break. I love an adventure and this did not let me down.
The end, where everything was explained, was a bit messy and difficult to understand, like the past of the villain. Throughout the story somethings happened too fast and were not completely described. I could definitely have more details in those scenes.
Nonetheless, a lovely story with a great message to not chose death and not let the darkness in. Chose love.
The end, where everything was explained, was a bit messy and difficult to understand, like the past of the villain. Throughout the story somethings happened too fast and were not completely described. I could definitely have more details in those scenes.
Nonetheless, a lovely story with a great message to not chose death and not let the darkness in. Chose love.
July 28, 2022
Eek! I’m so excited to be able to share this review with you all. Where do I start? I absolutely fell in love with this dark and twisted retelling of Snow White, I think it’s an incredible adaptation with surprises and twists throughout. Autumn Snow is a kickass FMC who doesn’t need saving and actually saves some of the other characters more than once, including Sahlyn Asher, the huntsman.
They join forces with the dwarves to rise up and kill the evil Queen Amira but have a separate adventure before they can do it, with amazing consequences, and gain the everlasting trust and respect of the remaining dwarf population.
I really love Autumn and Sahlyn and their burgeoning relationship as well as Argen, one of the dwarves, who has a great attitude and is also a fantastic warrior, and Esme is really sweet too, another of the dwarves, although we don’t see a lot of her. I didn’t like Amira but then we’re not supposed to because she’s evil 😂
Fans of modern retellings will love this, I’m sure. Everyone should read it when it’s released, it will be on KU for anyone who subscribes.
Trigger warning - there are sexual references and scenes as well as mildly graphic violence in the book.
They join forces with the dwarves to rise up and kill the evil Queen Amira but have a separate adventure before they can do it, with amazing consequences, and gain the everlasting trust and respect of the remaining dwarf population.
I really love Autumn and Sahlyn and their burgeoning relationship as well as Argen, one of the dwarves, who has a great attitude and is also a fantastic warrior, and Esme is really sweet too, another of the dwarves, although we don’t see a lot of her. I didn’t like Amira but then we’re not supposed to because she’s evil 😂
Fans of modern retellings will love this, I’m sure. Everyone should read it when it’s released, it will be on KU for anyone who subscribes.
Trigger warning - there are sexual references and scenes as well as mildly graphic violence in the book.
July 27, 2022
Autumn's family has made some weapons for nobles and learn that they courier meant to pick them up didn't make it. This leaves Autumn making the trek to deliver them herself. Easy enough, right? On her journey, she finds herself in the Queen's sights, and her heart being requested. The man meant to do the job, Sahlyn, refuses and hatches a plan to trick the Queen. But will the Queens murderous rampage be stopped and will the sparks that have ignited between Autumn and Sahlyn be explored?
I loved this retelling of Snow White. It has a lot more action, romance and adventure and keeps you invested in the story. Autumn has a strong personality and is an overall great character. She's a little too head strong at times, but that tends to add to her quirky charm. Sahlyn as the huntsman was a great spin, and I loved his character's connection with Autumn. That felt realistic and not like a stereotypical fantasy romance.
The pacing was fairly fast paced, lulling in some small spots (mainly during Autumn's journey), but picks up quickly.
Overall rating:
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1 🌶
I loved this retelling of Snow White. It has a lot more action, romance and adventure and keeps you invested in the story. Autumn has a strong personality and is an overall great character. She's a little too head strong at times, but that tends to add to her quirky charm. Sahlyn as the huntsman was a great spin, and I loved his character's connection with Autumn. That felt realistic and not like a stereotypical fantasy romance.
The pacing was fairly fast paced, lulling in some small spots (mainly during Autumn's journey), but picks up quickly.
Overall rating:
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1 🌶
August 21, 2022
This is a brilliant take on a familiar fairy tale.
We all know Snow White, and there have been lots of different looks at it over the years in book, TV and movie form. TL Thorne's lens is rather unique, and is a riveting read.
Autumn Snow is strong and independent, and her relationship with Asher, the Huntsman, is a fun one with more than a little spice. The Evil Queen, Amira, is wonderfully despicable, and the dwarven entourage is well realised with each getting their time to shine. Argen was the stand out for me.
Dark, twisted, and rather graphically violent in places, this is a particularly unique dark romance fantasy retelling with added animal companions. And who doesn't like that?
We all know Snow White, and there have been lots of different looks at it over the years in book, TV and movie form. TL Thorne's lens is rather unique, and is a riveting read.
Autumn Snow is strong and independent, and her relationship with Asher, the Huntsman, is a fun one with more than a little spice. The Evil Queen, Amira, is wonderfully despicable, and the dwarven entourage is well realised with each getting their time to shine. Argen was the stand out for me.
Dark, twisted, and rather graphically violent in places, this is a particularly unique dark romance fantasy retelling with added animal companions. And who doesn't like that?
September 22, 2022
When I look for fairy tale retellings I don't normally look for Snow White, it's just not my go to. That being said, I really enjoyed this story. It had an adult take on things but it wasn't crude. I could find myself relating to scenes or characters, the characters talked how I talk and I could understand the motives behind actions. The world building was fun and enjoyable. Most of the elements we are used to seeing with Snow White are there and it was fun seeing how they were used in this story. I had expected to be intrigued and like this story but it really resonated with me and I ended up enjoying this more than I thought.
December 26, 2025
More like 3.5. I enjoyed the premise, I was intrigued enough to keep reading. Biggest complaint is that although there were absolute gems of phrasing, the whole thing would have benefited from a good editor.
August 19, 2022
I love retelling of fairy tales. This is a twist of Snow White. It was an incredible read I absolutely enjoyed the story line and the characters. Can’t wait to find out what happens next.
November 11, 2022
5 and 3 stars
I really struggled with how to rate this book. What I really want is to give it both 5 stars and 3 stars rather than splitting the difference and calling it 4. In the beginning, Thorne mentions how this book wasn't planned, but just demanded to be written. It shows. And in parts, it shines. I'm not good at doing reviews without spoilers so I'll just stop there. The part I didn't like so much was that there was clearly some therapy in here. I didn't check the publish date, but I would bet it was somewhere fairly soon after the June term of SCOTUS ended. As a woman in the US, I feel that pain and the anger and the need for the therapy. As a reader, the more distressing the real world gets, the more escapist my choices get. It felt a little soapboxy and like it didn't quite fit. On the other hand I also wanted to hold it up as inspiring. Such a thin line between love and hate.
I really struggled with how to rate this book. What I really want is to give it both 5 stars and 3 stars rather than splitting the difference and calling it 4. In the beginning, Thorne mentions how this book wasn't planned, but just demanded to be written. It shows. And in parts, it shines. I'm not good at doing reviews without spoilers so I'll just stop there. The part I didn't like so much was that there was clearly some therapy in here. I didn't check the publish date, but I would bet it was somewhere fairly soon after the June term of SCOTUS ended. As a woman in the US, I feel that pain and the anger and the need for the therapy. As a reader, the more distressing the real world gets, the more escapist my choices get. It felt a little soapboxy and like it didn't quite fit. On the other hand I also wanted to hold it up as inspiring. Such a thin line between love and hate.
August 21, 2023
Now this is how to do a fairytale retelling! This is truly brilliantly done and right from the onset one knows it's a Snow White retelling, the Queen, the Huntsman, the mirror. And then the differences start coming.... Autumn is a fierce independent young lady, skilled in combat and in weapon making. Her life and Queen Amira's are completely separate. Amira is quite stunningly evil.
What a ferocious appetite Amira has and I'm not talking about food....all in the palace cater to her every whim. Of course, she sends her Huntsman to kill Autumn and bring back her heart, but fate intervenes. Yes, Autumn and Sahlyn meet in the woods, just not how you would expect! An added bonus is the Huntsman's POV! Brilliance with a twist
and a beautifully complex side to him, is slowly released throughout. Honestly, fabulous! I came to know him and love him, killer or not!
Oh and I love the little illustrations at the top of each chapter, really cool
No damsel in distress is our awesome Ms Snow, not fleeing for her life. No siree, she heads INTO danger! She can certainly hold her own, both in battle and in wits! She also has magic, now that's really cool! So, she and Sahlyn embark on a journey to find Dwarves, who apparently are instrumental in helping. Enter Argen! I absolutely adore Argen! I'd love a companion like him. I simply adore the banter between him and Autumn. No cute, cuddly or even grumpy Dwarves in this tale, but who needs 7 Dwarves when you can have Iro??? He's the absolute best friend anyone can have, what an awesome character! Oh, and he's a bird, in case you're wondering, a telepathically talking bird!
I loved the descriptive manner the author used to full advantage, allowing me to imagine every scene and scenario, like a painting developing before my eyes. The scenes in the catacombs was so emotional, I felt a tug on my heart. There are many elements to this book, so well twisted into a new fresh story but retaining the bones of the original, leaving no doubt on what ones reading.
I loved the deviations in the plot, the storyline and the characters. I can honestly say that this is a book well worth getting!.
What a ferocious appetite Amira has and I'm not talking about food....all in the palace cater to her every whim. Of course, she sends her Huntsman to kill Autumn and bring back her heart, but fate intervenes. Yes, Autumn and Sahlyn meet in the woods, just not how you would expect! An added bonus is the Huntsman's POV! Brilliance with a twist
and a beautifully complex side to him, is slowly released throughout. Honestly, fabulous! I came to know him and love him, killer or not!
Oh and I love the little illustrations at the top of each chapter, really cool
No damsel in distress is our awesome Ms Snow, not fleeing for her life. No siree, she heads INTO danger! She can certainly hold her own, both in battle and in wits! She also has magic, now that's really cool! So, she and Sahlyn embark on a journey to find Dwarves, who apparently are instrumental in helping. Enter Argen! I absolutely adore Argen! I'd love a companion like him. I simply adore the banter between him and Autumn. No cute, cuddly or even grumpy Dwarves in this tale, but who needs 7 Dwarves when you can have Iro??? He's the absolute best friend anyone can have, what an awesome character! Oh, and he's a bird, in case you're wondering, a telepathically talking bird!
I loved the descriptive manner the author used to full advantage, allowing me to imagine every scene and scenario, like a painting developing before my eyes. The scenes in the catacombs was so emotional, I felt a tug on my heart. There are many elements to this book, so well twisted into a new fresh story but retaining the bones of the original, leaving no doubt on what ones reading.
I loved the deviations in the plot, the storyline and the characters. I can honestly say that this is a book well worth getting!.
May 27, 2025
A Fierce Snow White Reimagined - 4 Stars for Heart of the Hunted
"Heart of the Hunted" offers a twist on the classic Snow White fairy tale. T.L. Thorne cleverly reimagines familiar characters and tropes, delivering a story centered on a truly formidable heroine, intriguing world-building, and a journey of self-discovery.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Autumn Snow, our reimagined Snow White, and Sahlyn Asher, the queen's deadly huntsman. Forget the damsel in distress; Autumn is the skilled daughter of a weaponsmith, trained to wield the very blades she and her father forge. She's a kickass FMC who embarks on a journey to deliver weapons, only to find herself the target of the malevolent queen. Sahlyn, bound to the queen's will and her magic mirror, is tasked with Autumn's assassination, setting the stage for a tense and captivating conflict.
What truly shines in "Heart of the Hunted" is its character development and thematic depth. Autumn is a standout protagonist – strong, capable, and more often the rescuer than the one needing rescue, even saving Sahlyn on occasion. The story beautifully explores themes of discovering one's best qualities, recognizing the strengths in others, and the courage it takes to follow one's heart. Thorne's world-building is another highlight, presenting a unique magic system and a richly detailed setting that draws the reader in.
I thoroughly enjoyed this inventive take on a beloved classic. However, a couple of elements held it back from a perfect score. The ending felt somewhat rushed, and for those seeking a high level of romantic heat, the "spice" level is quite low (earning it a 1 chili pepper rating from me). While marketed by some as a dark romance, I didn't find it fit neatly into that subgenre, lacking some of the grittier elements often associated with it.
Despite these points, "Heart of the Hunted" is a compelling read. There is a second book exploring side characters that I look forward to reading, and I would LOVE a backstory on the enigmatic queen.
Overall, "Heart of the Hunted" is a solid 4-star read. It’s a well-crafted fantasy romance with a strong female lead, a unique magical world, and a thoughtful exploration of character. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a strong, independent heroine and a focus on adventure and self-discovery over intense spice.
"Heart of the Hunted" offers a twist on the classic Snow White fairy tale. T.L. Thorne cleverly reimagines familiar characters and tropes, delivering a story centered on a truly formidable heroine, intriguing world-building, and a journey of self-discovery.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Autumn Snow, our reimagined Snow White, and Sahlyn Asher, the queen's deadly huntsman. Forget the damsel in distress; Autumn is the skilled daughter of a weaponsmith, trained to wield the very blades she and her father forge. She's a kickass FMC who embarks on a journey to deliver weapons, only to find herself the target of the malevolent queen. Sahlyn, bound to the queen's will and her magic mirror, is tasked with Autumn's assassination, setting the stage for a tense and captivating conflict.
What truly shines in "Heart of the Hunted" is its character development and thematic depth. Autumn is a standout protagonist – strong, capable, and more often the rescuer than the one needing rescue, even saving Sahlyn on occasion. The story beautifully explores themes of discovering one's best qualities, recognizing the strengths in others, and the courage it takes to follow one's heart. Thorne's world-building is another highlight, presenting a unique magic system and a richly detailed setting that draws the reader in.
I thoroughly enjoyed this inventive take on a beloved classic. However, a couple of elements held it back from a perfect score. The ending felt somewhat rushed, and for those seeking a high level of romantic heat, the "spice" level is quite low (earning it a 1 chili pepper rating from me). While marketed by some as a dark romance, I didn't find it fit neatly into that subgenre, lacking some of the grittier elements often associated with it.
Despite these points, "Heart of the Hunted" is a compelling read. There is a second book exploring side characters that I look forward to reading, and I would LOVE a backstory on the enigmatic queen.
Overall, "Heart of the Hunted" is a solid 4-star read. It’s a well-crafted fantasy romance with a strong female lead, a unique magical world, and a thoughtful exploration of character. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a strong, independent heroine and a focus on adventure and self-discovery over intense spice.
March 2, 2025
I’m a princess, I’m a dwarf, I’m…. Confused. Ok, I get it, this book is not a retelling of Snow White, just some “creative” tidbits of the age old tale. I say “creative” with quotations for a purpose, because nothing about this was creative. The was just a mangled mess of too many ideas.
Autumn Snow is the most annoying culmination of every strong, “I am woman hear me roar” character traits. She’s a strong, skilled, weaponsmith who looks nothing like these dainty socialite women. She tolerates some men but mostly hates all of them and wants to punch them in the faces. She doesn’t like women all that much either, but sometimes she can stand some so long as they are similar to her in being strong and able. She doesn’t need anyone. Roar. And isn’t she just the righteous one in everything she does? Pure of heart? Purely haughty if you ask me. I can’t stand her.
Ah, Sahlyn - I’m not even sure how to say your freaking name correctly. Are you Sahhhh-Lyn? Are you Say-hlan? I just called you Saylor at one point. I gave up. He’s the typical self-loathing strong man - not that I hate that about him. He’s probably the only reason I hung in here, his self hating was at least understandable given the things he had been forced to do.
As to the cast of minor characters, they were fine. I’m annoyed that everyone just immediately fell to their knees before Autumn as if she was some savior come to deliver them. None of it felt appropriate and I didn’t think she’d done much to garner their devotion to the end. Whatever.
This book is just all over the place. We’re in the woods, we’re in the dwarven mountains, we’re in the palace. But it’s all so fast and so underdeveloped. It’s just half thoughts and expectations that a reader should just accept: “well she’s a dwarf and she’s THE dwarf that will save them all,” “she’s the purest of heart and she will save them all,” “she’s a curse breaker and can talk to animals, just accept it.” Oh no, I’m not just accepting it, I need something to give it credence.
I would like to end this with the biggest annoyance of all - why is everyone and everything shivering? I mean the amount of times the word is used is just egregious. Almost as egregious as this book.
Autumn Snow is the most annoying culmination of every strong, “I am woman hear me roar” character traits. She’s a strong, skilled, weaponsmith who looks nothing like these dainty socialite women. She tolerates some men but mostly hates all of them and wants to punch them in the faces. She doesn’t like women all that much either, but sometimes she can stand some so long as they are similar to her in being strong and able. She doesn’t need anyone. Roar. And isn’t she just the righteous one in everything she does? Pure of heart? Purely haughty if you ask me. I can’t stand her.
Ah, Sahlyn - I’m not even sure how to say your freaking name correctly. Are you Sahhhh-Lyn? Are you Say-hlan? I just called you Saylor at one point. I gave up. He’s the typical self-loathing strong man - not that I hate that about him. He’s probably the only reason I hung in here, his self hating was at least understandable given the things he had been forced to do.
As to the cast of minor characters, they were fine. I’m annoyed that everyone just immediately fell to their knees before Autumn as if she was some savior come to deliver them. None of it felt appropriate and I didn’t think she’d done much to garner their devotion to the end. Whatever.
This book is just all over the place. We’re in the woods, we’re in the dwarven mountains, we’re in the palace. But it’s all so fast and so underdeveloped. It’s just half thoughts and expectations that a reader should just accept: “well she’s a dwarf and she’s THE dwarf that will save them all,” “she’s the purest of heart and she will save them all,” “she’s a curse breaker and can talk to animals, just accept it.” Oh no, I’m not just accepting it, I need something to give it credence.
I would like to end this with the biggest annoyance of all - why is everyone and everything shivering? I mean the amount of times the word is used is just egregious. Almost as egregious as this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2022
3.5
The author gave me an ebook in exchange for a review, and I loved this dark Snow White tale with magic, an independent Snow White, and a morally grey hot huntsman. I was dragged into the world and story from the first chapter! I love retellings, especially princess retellings, but I haven’t read many Snow White ones. There were just enough elements of the original fairy tale in Heart of the Hunted to be a solid retelling, with an abundance of unique details and world-building that separated it from the original. Autumn was an amazingly well-rounded main character; strong, determined, intelligent, and nice—like most princess reincarnations—but not a pushover. Her love interest, Sahlyn the huntsman, was a physically and emotionally scarred man resigned to being bound as the Evil Queen's tracker and killer until he meets Autumn. I loved how Sahlyn and Autumn met and how their meeting was very early in the book. I appreciate when the author sets up the conflict and introduces the main character to the reader and each other quickly, so the bulk of the book is the juicy conflict and/or romance.
Autumn was an extremely strong female lead. The author emphasized some great feminist ideals through Autumn and the evil Queen, which added layers to the queen’s character that the original glossed over. However, I was disappointed that the queen’s treatment of Sahlyn and her other servants wasn’t blatantly called out as SA or extremely abusive, though it is made clear that the queen is evil and her treatment of others is wrong. With all the empowerment this story contained (female and self-empowerment in general), there was a missed opportunity to condemn how power corrupts equally across genders and that women in power can be as cruel as powerful men. Otherwise, female empowerment was prominent and, while at times repetitive, an overall positive part of the book.
I did have a problem with the pacing. The story starts strong but slows down after the first 100 pages. The quest part of the story was consistently interesting, but Sahlyn and Autumn partook in a lot of inner contemplation, which became repetitive and slowed the action way down. Additionally, Autumn tended to come up with successful solutions to problems or solve riddles all on her own without the help of her companions and not explain how she came up with her solution. She never even explained her reasoning to the reader through her inner monologue, and she did this many times, so it felt very deus ex machina, but without any external interference. I also wished the author had explained the magic system a bit more, but that did not hinder my enjoyment of the story.
I enjoyed this book and loved the chapter headings that depicted Autumn and Sahlyn; they were very clever and were beautiful art! You'll love this book if you like medium-burn romances, found family, and strong and complex characters who embark on magical quests to save their world.
Trigger Warnings: SA (brief and not extremely explicit), blood, violence, near genocide, physical and emotional abuse, death
The author gave me an ebook in exchange for a review, and I loved this dark Snow White tale with magic, an independent Snow White, and a morally grey hot huntsman. I was dragged into the world and story from the first chapter! I love retellings, especially princess retellings, but I haven’t read many Snow White ones. There were just enough elements of the original fairy tale in Heart of the Hunted to be a solid retelling, with an abundance of unique details and world-building that separated it from the original. Autumn was an amazingly well-rounded main character; strong, determined, intelligent, and nice—like most princess reincarnations—but not a pushover. Her love interest, Sahlyn the huntsman, was a physically and emotionally scarred man resigned to being bound as the Evil Queen's tracker and killer until he meets Autumn. I loved how Sahlyn and Autumn met and how their meeting was very early in the book. I appreciate when the author sets up the conflict and introduces the main character to the reader and each other quickly, so the bulk of the book is the juicy conflict and/or romance.
Autumn was an extremely strong female lead. The author emphasized some great feminist ideals through Autumn and the evil Queen, which added layers to the queen’s character that the original glossed over. However, I was disappointed that the queen’s treatment of Sahlyn and her other servants wasn’t blatantly called out as SA or extremely abusive, though it is made clear that the queen is evil and her treatment of others is wrong. With all the empowerment this story contained (female and self-empowerment in general), there was a missed opportunity to condemn how power corrupts equally across genders and that women in power can be as cruel as powerful men. Otherwise, female empowerment was prominent and, while at times repetitive, an overall positive part of the book.
I did have a problem with the pacing. The story starts strong but slows down after the first 100 pages. The quest part of the story was consistently interesting, but Sahlyn and Autumn partook in a lot of inner contemplation, which became repetitive and slowed the action way down. Additionally, Autumn tended to come up with successful solutions to problems or solve riddles all on her own without the help of her companions and not explain how she came up with her solution. She never even explained her reasoning to the reader through her inner monologue, and she did this many times, so it felt very deus ex machina, but without any external interference. I also wished the author had explained the magic system a bit more, but that did not hinder my enjoyment of the story.
I enjoyed this book and loved the chapter headings that depicted Autumn and Sahlyn; they were very clever and were beautiful art! You'll love this book if you like medium-burn romances, found family, and strong and complex characters who embark on magical quests to save their world.
Trigger Warnings: SA (brief and not extremely explicit), blood, violence, near genocide, physical and emotional abuse, death
September 14, 2023
I absolutely loved this story. We all remember the fairy tales from our childhood but this is an adult version. It has unique characters and it draws you right into the story. The Queen was just plain evil to the core and played her role well. Of course she has the famous magic mirror which is why she sent her huntsman after Autumn's heart.
Autumn has an adventurous nature. So when a courier fails to pick up weapons made by her family for nobles of a northern kingdom, she gets the task. As usual there is trouble on the way. Autumn is stopped and taking care of a personal need. As she is doing this, an attack is foiled as a wolf bites the man. Autumn takes care of the brute and then helps the man. Now she learns he is the Queens Huntsman and he has come to take her heart. (And I mean literally take it) Sahlyn decides he can't do it after meeting her and the fact she saved his life. He returns to the Queen with the heart from another woman. This starts the ball rolling. Sahlyn knows he will get caught in his lie. When Autumn is shocked when at a costume dance she is taken back while dancing with a man in a wolf mask. It's Sahlyn and he wants her to go on a quest with him to get a sword that will kill the evil queen. They will travel through an awful forest, battle a dragon and make new friends. Autumn will learn things she didn’t know and have some hard choices to make. I really liked Argen and the jay, they were my favorites.
Autumn has an adventurous nature. So when a courier fails to pick up weapons made by her family for nobles of a northern kingdom, she gets the task. As usual there is trouble on the way. Autumn is stopped and taking care of a personal need. As she is doing this, an attack is foiled as a wolf bites the man. Autumn takes care of the brute and then helps the man. Now she learns he is the Queens Huntsman and he has come to take her heart. (And I mean literally take it) Sahlyn decides he can't do it after meeting her and the fact she saved his life. He returns to the Queen with the heart from another woman. This starts the ball rolling. Sahlyn knows he will get caught in his lie. When Autumn is shocked when at a costume dance she is taken back while dancing with a man in a wolf mask. It's Sahlyn and he wants her to go on a quest with him to get a sword that will kill the evil queen. They will travel through an awful forest, battle a dragon and make new friends. Autumn will learn things she didn’t know and have some hard choices to make. I really liked Argen and the jay, they were my favorites.
August 23, 2023
Who needs a knight in shining armor when there is Autumn Snow!
I absolutely loved this Snow White reimagined story! It kept me guessing and wondering, there was tons of action and a little spice. The world building and character development was phenomenal. It gave me all the feels and I so look forward to the next book!
I absolutely loved this Snow White reimagined story! It kept me guessing and wondering, there was tons of action and a little spice. The world building and character development was phenomenal. It gave me all the feels and I so look forward to the next book!
July 22, 2025
This story was everything!
I haven’t loved a story so much in a long time!
From the retelling aspect to the world building to the angsty love story to the true loves kiss this story had everything and more!
I adored it and I can’t wait to read more by this author!
Thankyou for creating such a unique take on this fairytale!
I haven’t loved a story so much in a long time!
From the retelling aspect to the world building to the angsty love story to the true loves kiss this story had everything and more!
I adored it and I can’t wait to read more by this author!
Thankyou for creating such a unique take on this fairytale!
March 6, 2024
I'm usually not a fantasy reader, but I really liked this spin on Snow White!!! I loved the characters and the very strong female lead!
I would love to see a prequel about Amira.... she was evil, yet fascinated me. I feel like she has her own story to tell.
I would love to see a prequel about Amira.... she was evil, yet fascinated me. I feel like she has her own story to tell.
August 2, 2022
For fans of:
- Enemies to lovers
- A little spice
- animal companions
- fun banter / dwarven snark
- deep platonic bonds
- semi forced proximity
- HEA
- Enemies to lovers
- A little spice
- animal companions
- fun banter / dwarven snark
- deep platonic bonds
- semi forced proximity
- HEA
November 11, 2022
🟢 Pros: Beautiful artwork. Unexpected plot. Good male lead. Sprinkle of darkness.
🔴 Cons: Not dark enough. Too many secrets, deals and curses to keep them all straight. Not unique. Cookie cutter female lead.
💭 Thoughts: It has enough twists and turns to keep people entertained as well as a couple of sex scenes to satisfy but the rest tends to fall flat. There are too many curses and deals and prophesies that intertwine that it’s hard to keep the whole story straight and by the end you are left scratching your head. Had some of these story lines been fully explained and sprinkled through the book, the story would have been easier to understand and follow.
In a twist of fate however, I disliked this version of Snow White and shockingly I like the male lead, which seldom happens in modern romance books. Autumn is the definition of your “not like other girls” trope and by the end I found her insufferable. Because she tends to place herself above other women, she comes across and snobby and unrelatable, as opposed to empowered which the author clearly meant to write. Sahlyn on the other hand was palatable and refreshing since he is not the asshole over-protective or jealous kind we so often see. He has his misogynistic moments here and there but most of it is good.
⏳ Final Comments: Prepare yourself for a not dark enough tale that has beautiful artwork and a good male lead but little else. The villain is unfortunately also a bit lacking, and I wanted more out of her too. Enjoyed some of it. Read if you like fairytale retellings but otherwise I would recommend just watching the film Snow White and the Huntsman, very similar but in that one at least the villain is spectacular.
🔴 Cons: Not dark enough. Too many secrets, deals and curses to keep them all straight. Not unique. Cookie cutter female lead.
💭 Thoughts: It has enough twists and turns to keep people entertained as well as a couple of sex scenes to satisfy but the rest tends to fall flat. There are too many curses and deals and prophesies that intertwine that it’s hard to keep the whole story straight and by the end you are left scratching your head. Had some of these story lines been fully explained and sprinkled through the book, the story would have been easier to understand and follow.
In a twist of fate however, I disliked this version of Snow White and shockingly I like the male lead, which seldom happens in modern romance books. Autumn is the definition of your “not like other girls” trope and by the end I found her insufferable. Because she tends to place herself above other women, she comes across and snobby and unrelatable, as opposed to empowered which the author clearly meant to write. Sahlyn on the other hand was palatable and refreshing since he is not the asshole over-protective or jealous kind we so often see. He has his misogynistic moments here and there but most of it is good.
⏳ Final Comments: Prepare yourself for a not dark enough tale that has beautiful artwork and a good male lead but little else. The villain is unfortunately also a bit lacking, and I wanted more out of her too. Enjoyed some of it. Read if you like fairytale retellings but otherwise I would recommend just watching the film Snow White and the Huntsman, very similar but in that one at least the villain is spectacular.
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