Heartless Hunter : The Crimson Moth: Book 1 – Kristen Ciccarelli

In a world shattered by revolution, witches are hunted to near extinction, forced into hiding or purged by a ruthless regime. Rune, a young socialite by day and the vigilante Crimson Moth by night, risks everything to save her kind from execution. Her double life becomes a deadly dance when she crosses paths with Gideon Sharpe, a notorious witch hunter whose loyalty to the revolution is matched only by his growing fascination with Rune. As their paths intertwine, secrets unravel, and trust becomes a weapon sharper than any blade.

Ciccarelli weaves a tale of forbidden love and moral ambiguity, where alliances shift like shadows and survival hinges on deception. Rune’s struggle to protect her identity while navigating Gideon’s piercing scrutiny creates a tension that crackles across every page. The opulent yet treacherous setting—a republic clinging to the ashes of witch-led rule—adds layers of intrigue, where every glittering ballroom hides whispers of betrayal.

The novel explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the cost of rebellion, painting both witches and hunters in shades of gray. Gideon’s relentless pursuit of the Crimson Moth clashes with his unexpected admiration for Rune’s courage, while Rune grapples with the guilt of her past and the weight of her secrets. Secondary characters, like Rune’s loyal friend Alex and Gideon’s haunted past, deepen the emotional stakes.

Praised for its steamy enemies-to-lovers dynamic and rich world-building, Heartless Hunter balances heart-pounding action with tender moments of vulnerability. The magic system, tied to blood and sacrifice, adds a visceral edge to the story. Fans of The Scarlet Pimpernel and A Court of Thorns and Roses will find themselves swept into this high-stakes romantasy, where love and duty collide in devastating ways.

With twists that defy expectations and prose as sharp as a witch’s blade, the book leaves readers breathless, setting the stage for a gripping sequel. Ciccarelli’s ability to blend political intrigue, moral complexity, and slow-burn romance cements this duology opener as a standout in young adult fantasy.