What do you think?
Crowned Monsters Duet #1
Monsters Wear Crowns
In Monsters Wear Crowns, debut author Adeline Humphries delivers a dark romance where obsession is power, love is a battlefield, and monsters rule the city. Perfect for fans of ruthless CEO's, morally gray antiheroes, and high-stakes passion.
Monsters don’t hide in shadows. They rule from thrones.
Adela Sinclair built her empire with fire and code, protecting the most powerful criminals in NYC. She’s untouchable—until the worst one imaginable stalks her.
Rafe Vaughan is a king without a crown—a monster draped in luxury and violence. He doesn’t ask. He takes. And he’s set his sights on her to shield his own empire from a brewing war.
Drawn by power, bound by lust, she agrees. But when his greatest rival turns his blade toward her, their fragile alliance twists into something far more dangerous. In his thirst for control, will she become the first woman he’s ever loved? Or a liability he cannot afford?
Monsters wear crowns.
And in the end, only one will rule.
Monsters don’t hide in shadows. They rule from thrones.
Adela Sinclair built her empire with fire and code, protecting the most powerful criminals in NYC. She’s untouchable—until the worst one imaginable stalks her.
Rafe Vaughan is a king without a crown—a monster draped in luxury and violence. He doesn’t ask. He takes. And he’s set his sights on her to shield his own empire from a brewing war.
Drawn by power, bound by lust, she agrees. But when his greatest rival turns his blade toward her, their fragile alliance twists into something far more dangerous. In his thirst for control, will she become the first woman he’s ever loved? Or a liability he cannot afford?
Monsters wear crowns.
And in the end, only one will rule.
593 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2025
About the author
Adeline Humphries
5 books214 followersTHE CROWNED MONSTERS DUET is my debut work as a dark romance author. It has since been re-released with updates and corrections.
THE FALLING STAR TRILOGY is a dark rockstar romance with thriller elements.
I'm Adeline and I'm a 31 year old dark romance author who started out writing spice-heavy work (CMD), then soon pivoted to more emotionally heavy work (FST). My work is ever-growing as I continue to hone my craft and figure out what kind of writing resonates best. You’re on this journey with me, so thank you!
When I'm not writing morally ambiguous characters, I’m living a quiet and adventurous life in the US with my husband and cats.
I am forever grateful for everyone who has picked up my stories and given them a chance. Thank you so much for supporting me on this incredible journey. Little me would be so proud to say that she will one day be a published author after scribbling in her notebooks for years.
THE FALLING STAR TRILOGY is a dark rockstar romance with thriller elements.
I'm Adeline and I'm a 31 year old dark romance author who started out writing spice-heavy work (CMD), then soon pivoted to more emotionally heavy work (FST). My work is ever-growing as I continue to hone my craft and figure out what kind of writing resonates best. You’re on this journey with me, so thank you!
When I'm not writing morally ambiguous characters, I’m living a quiet and adventurous life in the US with my husband and cats.
I am forever grateful for everyone who has picked up my stories and given them a chance. Thank you so much for supporting me on this incredible journey. Little me would be so proud to say that she will one day be a published author after scribbling in her notebooks for years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 29, 2026
2 ⭐️: Will deny in public I read it…
♥︎ ⤷ Out of all the books this year, this one proved to be the most disappointing for me. I’m curious whether anyone else here has read a phenomenal book only for the author to ruin it with one key detail.
♥︎ ⤷ Monsters Wear Crowns opened the storyline perfectly with a mix of suspense and thriller. Unlike other books, the FMC, Adela, is introduced as the powerful CEO of one of New York City's most trusted cybersecurity agencies; however, she fantasizes about a dom x sub relationship where she can entrust a male partner to push her boundaries. Then Rafe comes into the picture, and the author beautifully wrote his character to ruin it.
♥︎ ⤷ Now, depending on triggers, there are various dark elements that some may stray away from, such as breath play, CNC, talk of past abuse, and what I never expected at all…NC between the two main characters. You all read that right: the author decided to write Rafe as such a fierce MMC who not only delivers physical and mental protection for his soulmate; however, with only 10% left in the book, the author decides that Rafe will sexually assault Adela after she screams and cries her safe word because he believes she cheated on him.
♥︎ ⤷ Absolutely disgusting, and what made this sharp twist even worse for me is how the author presents Adela, who, as I said earlier, is a powerful character, as now weak and unable to help but forgive and be with the man who betrayed her trust. The only character who had common sense was the side character, Adela’s best friend, who explained to her that what happened to her was assault and that’s not love. However, ultimately the author forces a happily ever after where the main villain is the man who told Adela “I told you so” about the MMC.
♥︎ ⤷ Out of all the books this year, this one proved to be the most disappointing for me. I’m curious whether anyone else here has read a phenomenal book only for the author to ruin it with one key detail.
♥︎ ⤷ Monsters Wear Crowns opened the storyline perfectly with a mix of suspense and thriller. Unlike other books, the FMC, Adela, is introduced as the powerful CEO of one of New York City's most trusted cybersecurity agencies; however, she fantasizes about a dom x sub relationship where she can entrust a male partner to push her boundaries. Then Rafe comes into the picture, and the author beautifully wrote his character to ruin it.
♥︎ ⤷ Now, depending on triggers, there are various dark elements that some may stray away from, such as breath play, CNC, talk of past abuse, and what I never expected at all…NC between the two main characters. You all read that right: the author decided to write Rafe as such a fierce MMC who not only delivers physical and mental protection for his soulmate; however, with only 10% left in the book, the author decides that Rafe will sexually assault Adela after she screams and cries her safe word because he believes she cheated on him.
♥︎ ⤷ Absolutely disgusting, and what made this sharp twist even worse for me is how the author presents Adela, who, as I said earlier, is a powerful character, as now weak and unable to help but forgive and be with the man who betrayed her trust. The only character who had common sense was the side character, Adela’s best friend, who explained to her that what happened to her was assault and that’s not love. However, ultimately the author forces a happily ever after where the main villain is the man who told Adela “I told you so” about the MMC.
October 6, 2026
these two had me in a chokehold.
Loved how plot heavy the story was! Every chapter felt packed with action or relationship building. I was lowkey rooting for the bad guy too😂😂😂 the only thing i didn’t like is that he put his hands on her. I understand what was going on but he let his demons win for a second there. Im reading book 2 to see where the story goes.
Loved how plot heavy the story was! Every chapter felt packed with action or relationship building. I was lowkey rooting for the bad guy too😂😂😂 the only thing i didn’t like is that he put his hands on her. I understand what was going on but he let his demons win for a second there. Im reading book 2 to see where the story goes.
May 8, 2025
Alright, I usually just give a note but not my written opinion about my reads (mostly because of my laziness), but this one ? I had to.
The characters and their complications ? Their development ? The plot ? Everything was absolutely perfect ! 😩
First, Adela. She's the strongest and at the same time the most vulnerable FMC I've ever encountered in a dark romance, and I've read a lot of it. Loved it, she's relatable and easily lovable. There was never a moment where I was like 'meh, she's boring or annoying'. On the contrary, I cheered her up and wanted nothing more than to comfort her through the story. 🥺
Then, Rafe. If you thought Zade Meadows was dark, then you're not ready for Rafe fu*king Vaughan. The complexity of his character, his development... I ate it up and I'm still craving for more ! Yes, he's an ass*ole and definitely not a good man. What he did to Adela... Damn. Unforgivable. No excuses. Yet, it brings back his humanity in a way where, no, you don’t condone what he did or approve or whatever people think we, readers of dark romance do, but you acknowledge the way he actually realizes his wrongs and actually tries to make it right in his own way. That is what makes his character so interesting and good for a dark romance. The point of those books isn't to romanticize this, it's to show that humans are complicated and sometimes, people forgive the unforgivable juste because they can and want to.
So yes, Rafe is fu*kep up and what he did is not excusable. Yet, he's so broken and lost because of his past, you can't bring yourself to hate him.
I also think only someone who went through something similar can understand why Adela forgave him. 🤷♀️
Anyway, this book was one of my darkest read this year so far and it was amazing ! Congratulations to the author because damn, everything from the characters, their complexity, the plot, the antagonist... It was all perfect for me. 🔥🫶
But be extra aware of the TW, it is NOT for everyone !!
The characters and their complications ? Their development ? The plot ? Everything was absolutely perfect ! 😩
First, Adela. She's the strongest and at the same time the most vulnerable FMC I've ever encountered in a dark romance, and I've read a lot of it. Loved it, she's relatable and easily lovable. There was never a moment where I was like 'meh, she's boring or annoying'. On the contrary, I cheered her up and wanted nothing more than to comfort her through the story. 🥺
Then, Rafe. If you thought Zade Meadows was dark, then you're not ready for Rafe fu*king Vaughan. The complexity of his character, his development... I ate it up and I'm still craving for more ! Yes, he's an ass*ole and definitely not a good man. What he did to Adela... Damn. Unforgivable. No excuses. Yet, it brings back his humanity in a way where, no, you don’t condone what he did or approve or whatever people think we, readers of dark romance do, but you acknowledge the way he actually realizes his wrongs and actually tries to make it right in his own way. That is what makes his character so interesting and good for a dark romance. The point of those books isn't to romanticize this, it's to show that humans are complicated and sometimes, people forgive the unforgivable juste because they can and want to.
So yes, Rafe is fu*kep up and what he did is not excusable. Yet, he's so broken and lost because of his past, you can't bring yourself to hate him.
I also think only someone who went through something similar can understand why Adela forgave him. 🤷♀️
Anyway, this book was one of my darkest read this year so far and it was amazing ! Congratulations to the author because damn, everything from the characters, their complexity, the plot, the antagonist... It was all perfect for me. 🔥🫶
But be extra aware of the TW, it is NOT for everyone !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 4/5
🧠 3/10
Noteworthy: TWs are very valid, so take them seriously. This book could use additional editing. This is a debut author.
I had to sleep on this review to get my thoughts together. I will say that I did like this book and will give book 2 a try.
The first thing I want to get off my chest here. If you took a shot of every time the word "powerful" is used, you would die of alcohol poisoning. Also, the spice is Carolina Reaper hot.
I rolled my eyes several times at the decisions made by both mains in the first half of this book. It took me hundreds of pages to realize the reason I felt that way is because I really didn't know the FMC. The development and understanding of how she grew up and the things she's done are vaguely referenced but not explored. So when she makes decisions to put herself or the MMC puts her in harms way, it's because she has some experience with those highly dangerous situations. It is stated that she's used to dealing with dangerous men but isn't expounded upon. The MMC understood she was used to it because he knew her better than us, the reader. We just needed more character development here.
The last 3rd of this book was gripping. I wasn't sure what either of these characters would do because their thoughts and emotions were all over the place. It felt like the psychopathic behavior you would expect from high-level criminals. These two people were perfect for each other, yet terrible together at the same time. Adela makes some insanely bad choices, but some of them humanized her in my eyes.
When Rafe does the unforgivable late in this book, her relative quickness to forgive (but not forget) should have annoyed me, but it fits this characters way of thinking when it comes to this man. Rafe's whiplash thoughts and feelings about the betrayal and his actions were a little terrifying. It felt like he could snap hard at any time. Intense storytelling there.
The epilogue feels like it just came out of nowhere. It felt like the author made a snap decision to create additional conflict instead of giving us an HEA. I'm not really mad at it, though.
This is one of those books that will stick with me for a bit, and I may adjust my rating later.
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 4/5
🧠 3/10
Noteworthy: TWs are very valid, so take them seriously. This book could use additional editing. This is a debut author.
I had to sleep on this review to get my thoughts together. I will say that I did like this book and will give book 2 a try.
The first thing I want to get off my chest here. If you took a shot of every time the word "powerful" is used, you would die of alcohol poisoning. Also, the spice is Carolina Reaper hot.
I rolled my eyes several times at the decisions made by both mains in the first half of this book. It took me hundreds of pages to realize the reason I felt that way is because I really didn't know the FMC. The development and understanding of how she grew up and the things she's done are vaguely referenced but not explored. So when she makes decisions to put herself or the MMC puts her in harms way, it's because she has some experience with those highly dangerous situations. It is stated that she's used to dealing with dangerous men but isn't expounded upon. The MMC understood she was used to it because he knew her better than us, the reader. We just needed more character development here.
The last 3rd of this book was gripping. I wasn't sure what either of these characters would do because their thoughts and emotions were all over the place. It felt like the psychopathic behavior you would expect from high-level criminals. These two people were perfect for each other, yet terrible together at the same time. Adela makes some insanely bad choices, but some of them humanized her in my eyes.
When Rafe does the unforgivable late in this book, her relative quickness to forgive (but not forget) should have annoyed me, but it fits this characters way of thinking when it comes to this man. Rafe's whiplash thoughts and feelings about the betrayal and his actions were a little terrifying. It felt like he could snap hard at any time. Intense storytelling there.
The epilogue feels like it just came out of nowhere. It felt like the author made a snap decision to create additional conflict instead of giving us an HEA. I'm not really mad at it, though.
This is one of those books that will stick with me for a bit, and I may adjust my rating later.
February 1, 2026
ALL HAIL RAFE VAUGHAN ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I came for the book…
I stayed for the legendary book boyfriend that is Rafe Vaughan 🙌
Let me be clear: this review is not just about the story (which is excellent), but about Rafe—dark, morally gray, tortured, and so beautifully crafted it should honestly be illegal. This man lives rent-free in my head now.
If you love an MMC who walks the line between right and wrong, carries his pain like armor, and makes you question your own morals while doing it… congratulations, this book was written for you. Rafe is broody, intense, layered, and impossible not to fall for.
If dark, morally gray, tortured MMCs are your weakness (same 🖐️), do yourself a favor and pick this up.
You’ll finish the book obsessed, slightly unwell, and desperately wishing Rafe Vaughan were real ❤️
10/10 would let this book emotionally destroy me again.
I came for the book…
I stayed for the legendary book boyfriend that is Rafe Vaughan 🙌
Let me be clear: this review is not just about the story (which is excellent), but about Rafe—dark, morally gray, tortured, and so beautifully crafted it should honestly be illegal. This man lives rent-free in my head now.
If you love an MMC who walks the line between right and wrong, carries his pain like armor, and makes you question your own morals while doing it… congratulations, this book was written for you. Rafe is broody, intense, layered, and impossible not to fall for.
If dark, morally gray, tortured MMCs are your weakness (same 🖐️), do yourself a favor and pick this up.
You’ll finish the book obsessed, slightly unwell, and desperately wishing Rafe Vaughan were real ❤️
10/10 would let this book emotionally destroy me again.
May 12, 2025
My Rating: 4.5/5
My Thoughts: Adela Sinclair is a CEO who protects powerful men. While she seems untouchable to the world, she is struggling to unleash her secret desires, until him. Rafe Vaughan has been keeping a close eye from afar, in the shadows, on Adela. Adela's body becomes aware of him as she secretly waits to see what he will do. Adela and Rafe's story is very dark, filled with stlkers, criminal wars, a strong female character, spice, twists, and suspense. The character development was true to the underworld and realistic.
This book had me hooked from start to finish. I was instantly drawn to the characters and couldn't put it down. I thought it was very thoughtful to put the trigger warnings in the chapter headers to prepare the reader. I was not prepared for that twist at the end. My jaw literally dropped, and I was instantly looking to see when book 2 is coming out. Overall, this was such a great read for Adeline's debut, and I can't wait to continue this series.
My Thoughts: Adela Sinclair is a CEO who protects powerful men. While she seems untouchable to the world, she is struggling to unleash her secret desires, until him. Rafe Vaughan has been keeping a close eye from afar, in the shadows, on Adela. Adela's body becomes aware of him as she secretly waits to see what he will do. Adela and Rafe's story is very dark, filled with stlkers, criminal wars, a strong female character, spice, twists, and suspense. The character development was true to the underworld and realistic.
This book had me hooked from start to finish. I was instantly drawn to the characters and couldn't put it down. I thought it was very thoughtful to put the trigger warnings in the chapter headers to prepare the reader. I was not prepared for that twist at the end. My jaw literally dropped, and I was instantly looking to see when book 2 is coming out. Overall, this was such a great read for Adeline's debut, and I can't wait to continue this series.
July 5, 2026
Rafeeeeeeeeeeee. I really enjoyed this book and I am glad I went back to read it because this couple captured my attention in the other series. Surprised this one isn’t all over Tik tok.. a wild ride will go on to read book two 🤞
September 30, 2025
OMFG
This sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions! Very very dark in places and gave me haunting/hunting adeline vibes!
Rafe Vaughan has my heart! 🖤
That epilogue had me screaming though!! WTF get me the second book NOW!
This sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions! Very very dark in places and gave me haunting/hunting adeline vibes!
Rafe Vaughan has my heart! 🖤
That epilogue had me screaming though!! WTF get me the second book NOW!
September 25, 2026
Adela + Vaughn are crazy, but crazy good together!! I love their crazy, banter and temper sooooo good!! Totally unexpected but also totally refreshing to find 2 people so in sync
April 26, 2025
Dark love with plenty of smut!
Wow! What a great read! I do recommend reading trigger warnings as some scenes are graphic.
Adela is a baddie in her own right and is craving something in her life. Enters Rafe! He's psychotic, hot, and dangerous. Come on my fellow book baddies, we love that in our men! Stalking, check. Burn the world down for his woman, check. Let's her live out her dark fantasies, also check.
Then we have the enemy, Moreau (might have misspelled his name, who cares though.) He'll stop at nothing to take down Rafe and take Adela away.
This book was everything I was looking forward to reading. I couldn't put it down once I started. It does hang on a cliffhanger into the next book. I am feral for it. For her first book Adeline hit it out the park. I cannot wait for it! Again read the trigger warnings before heading in.
Wow! What a great read! I do recommend reading trigger warnings as some scenes are graphic.
Adela is a baddie in her own right and is craving something in her life. Enters Rafe! He's psychotic, hot, and dangerous. Come on my fellow book baddies, we love that in our men! Stalking, check. Burn the world down for his woman, check. Let's her live out her dark fantasies, also check.
Then we have the enemy, Moreau (might have misspelled his name, who cares though.) He'll stop at nothing to take down Rafe and take Adela away.
This book was everything I was looking forward to reading. I couldn't put it down once I started. It does hang on a cliffhanger into the next book. I am feral for it. For her first book Adeline hit it out the park. I cannot wait for it! Again read the trigger warnings before heading in.
June 14, 2026
A must read dark romance!!
I read The Falling Star Trilogy before this and had to know the backstory of Rafe and Adela. Monsters Wear Crowns pulled me in from the first chapter and never let go. The characters were flawed, complex, and beautifully human, making every triumph and heartbreak feel real. I became completely invested in their journey and found myself unable to put it down. The relationships felt authentic, the stakes felt high, and every page left me wanting just one more chapter.
By the time I reached the end, I was completely satisfied yet reluctant to say goodbye, on to book 2!! The best kind of book leaves a mark long after the last page, and Monsters Wear Crowns did exactly that.
An easy five stars from me. A fabulous debut novel for Adeline Humphries.
I read The Falling Star Trilogy before this and had to know the backstory of Rafe and Adela. Monsters Wear Crowns pulled me in from the first chapter and never let go. The characters were flawed, complex, and beautifully human, making every triumph and heartbreak feel real. I became completely invested in their journey and found myself unable to put it down. The relationships felt authentic, the stakes felt high, and every page left me wanting just one more chapter.
By the time I reached the end, I was completely satisfied yet reluctant to say goodbye, on to book 2!! The best kind of book leaves a mark long after the last page, and Monsters Wear Crowns did exactly that.
An easy five stars from me. A fabulous debut novel for Adeline Humphries.
November 6, 2025
A video from the author came up on my FYP on TikTok, I was intrigued and coming off a several day reading hiatus after Under Your Scars wrecked me, so I decided to get it on KU. With that being said, I was enamored with this book and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I feel like it was really well written and the story had me sitting up in bed at 2am. PLEASE read your trigger warnings; the author was gracious enough to label the triggers on the chapters which a lot don’t do. I get how this wouldn’t be for everyone but I loved it. I’m unfortunately a Rafe apologist and I know how terrible that makes me but I am who I am.
July 30, 2026
Dark - yes.
Spicy - yes.
Bad ass FMC - yes
Morally problematic MMC - yes.
And while 90% of this book may not bother folks, there is a scene that would and among our characters? It is every bit the issue it should be. And that is validating as hell for the people that needed the message that “no that wasn’t ok” and the related admissions conveys.
I’m reading book 2.
Spicy - yes.
Bad ass FMC - yes
Morally problematic MMC - yes.
And while 90% of this book may not bother folks, there is a scene that would and among our characters? It is every bit the issue it should be. And that is validating as hell for the people that needed the message that “no that wasn’t ok” and the related admissions conveys.
I’m reading book 2.
August 11, 2025
I knew from about 15% on that I was rating this book 5⭐️ and then he went and SA her. And as happy as I am and as much as I liked it, just can’t be 5 bc of that.
August 6, 2026
the book boyfriend. RAFE. VAUGHN.🙌🏼
May 26, 2026
What made this book impossible to put down was the constant push and pull between two people who were equally powerful yet equally incapable of understanding what love was supposed to look like. Watching Adela and Rafe fight against their feelings while still being drawn to each other over and over created so much tension and emotion. Their connection felt dangerous, obsessive, and vulnerable all at once.
I loved Adela as an FMC. She was fierce, intelligent, independent, and never lost herself even when surrounded by monsters and power plays. She gave just as much as she took and held her own against Rafe in every scene. Seeing someone so guarded and untouchable slowly crack emotionally without losing her strength was incredibly satisfying.
Rafe brought the perfect level of chaos and intensity. Underneath all the violence and control was someone who genuinely did not know how to give or receive love, which made every softer moment hit even harder. Together they were explosive in the best way.
This book delivered power, obsession, danger, and emotional tension so perfectly that I was hooked from start to finish
I loved Adela as an FMC. She was fierce, intelligent, independent, and never lost herself even when surrounded by monsters and power plays. She gave just as much as she took and held her own against Rafe in every scene. Seeing someone so guarded and untouchable slowly crack emotionally without losing her strength was incredibly satisfying.
Rafe brought the perfect level of chaos and intensity. Underneath all the violence and control was someone who genuinely did not know how to give or receive love, which made every softer moment hit even harder. Together they were explosive in the best way.
This book delivered power, obsession, danger, and emotional tension so perfectly that I was hooked from start to finish
June 23, 2026
Okay wow! If you want a Hot dark romance with an unhinged man this one's for you! Rafe is who he is and that is unhinging, possessive and mortally grey...maybe black. Our FMC Adela is strong, a business women and the only one who can handle Rafe. Or can she? He has a secret one that might end their "arrangement." When a common enemy comes in he tries to turn them against each other and he just might.
This one was really dark and spicy but it didn't take away from the plot which i appreciate!
I really appreciate the authors list of trigger warnings. She also put it on the chapter page if that trigger was in that chapter!
Definitely reading more by this author!!
This one was really dark and spicy but it didn't take away from the plot which i appreciate!
I really appreciate the authors list of trigger warnings. She also put it on the chapter page if that trigger was in that chapter!
Definitely reading more by this author!!
August 22, 2025
I wanted to love it so much and about 90% of it I did. But when Rafe thinks he is betrayed I can’t deal with that scene. I understand dark romance but that killed it for me.
July 21, 2026
OH MY WORD!! If I didn’t already love Rafe and Adela from Adeline’s other work I definitely love them now! Going back to their personal history made me love them so much more than I thought possible!
Rafe Vaughan is such a walking red flag but they’re all completely ignored when his softer side comes out for Adela. He’s the epitome of a book boyfriend in the sense that he knows exactly what fantasies Adela wants and gives them to her no questions asked.
Adela, the badass CEO FMC that she is takes no shit from anybody, including Rafe. I loved her so much in the Falling Star trilogy (based after this series) and reading this book and the rest of the duology gives you so much more depth into how she becomes who she is in the other series!
Another 5⭐️ read for me by Adeline, an absolutely incredible author and considering this is her debut novel, it’s OUTSTANDING!😍
Rafe Vaughan is such a walking red flag but they’re all completely ignored when his softer side comes out for Adela. He’s the epitome of a book boyfriend in the sense that he knows exactly what fantasies Adela wants and gives them to her no questions asked.
Adela, the badass CEO FMC that she is takes no shit from anybody, including Rafe. I loved her so much in the Falling Star trilogy (based after this series) and reading this book and the rest of the duology gives you so much more depth into how she becomes who she is in the other series!
Another 5⭐️ read for me by Adeline, an absolutely incredible author and considering this is her debut novel, it’s OUTSTANDING!😍
June 1, 2026
Monsters Wear Crowns is a super spicy dark romance about two powerful characters that become equally invested in each other professionally and personally. Rafe is the monster of New York and the person you don't want to have to deal with. Adela is running her family legacy, company powerful enough to protect information from the most advanced hackers. Rafe has run into some trouble and now needs to partner with Adela to have a chance to overtake his enemies and control his territory.
While their professional affair is a dangerous tango, so is their personal affair. Rafe is able to drag out the excitement and desire she's been missing in her life. Adela becomes Rafe's obsession and wants to make her his.
I highly recommend if you are looking for a dark and spicy read with two powerful characters dealing with the criminal underworld.
September 3, 2026
Well… that was a fucking EXPERIENCE. 😂
I went into this knowing it was going to be dark, but Rafe Vaughan??? Sir, I have QUESTIONS. 😭
Adela was definitely my favourite part of this book. I loved having an FMC who was powerful, independent and more than capable of standing on her own two feet. She isn’t just there to be protected by the MMC, and watching her navigate everything thrown at her made her so easy to root for.
Rafe, on the other hand, is an absolute menace. He is obsessive, possessive, morally BLACK and does some seriously questionable things, but I couldn’t stop reading about him. The further I got into the book, the more interested I became in understanding him and watching his walls come down.
The chemistry between Rafe and Adela was 🔥🔥🔥 and the spice was definitely delivering. But what surprised me most was how emotionally invested I became towards the end. There were moments where I genuinely thought my heart was going to give up on me. 😂
The action, betrayals and twists kept me hooked, and that final stretch??? I was STRESSED. Watching Rafe completely lose his shit over Adela and finally show just how much she means to him was probably one of my favourite parts of the entire book.
Was it perfect? No. But did I have a ridiculously good time reading it? Absolutely.
Dark, spicy, chaotic and emotionally damaging in the best way.
Definitely check the trigger warnings before picking this one up because it goes DARK.
4 ⭐️ from me, and I am absolutely carrying on with the duet. 👀
I went into this knowing it was going to be dark, but Rafe Vaughan??? Sir, I have QUESTIONS. 😭
Adela was definitely my favourite part of this book. I loved having an FMC who was powerful, independent and more than capable of standing on her own two feet. She isn’t just there to be protected by the MMC, and watching her navigate everything thrown at her made her so easy to root for.
Rafe, on the other hand, is an absolute menace. He is obsessive, possessive, morally BLACK and does some seriously questionable things, but I couldn’t stop reading about him. The further I got into the book, the more interested I became in understanding him and watching his walls come down.
The chemistry between Rafe and Adela was 🔥🔥🔥 and the spice was definitely delivering. But what surprised me most was how emotionally invested I became towards the end. There were moments where I genuinely thought my heart was going to give up on me. 😂
The action, betrayals and twists kept me hooked, and that final stretch??? I was STRESSED. Watching Rafe completely lose his shit over Adela and finally show just how much she means to him was probably one of my favourite parts of the entire book.
Was it perfect? No. But did I have a ridiculously good time reading it? Absolutely.
Dark, spicy, chaotic and emotionally damaging in the best way.
Definitely check the trigger warnings before picking this one up because it goes DARK.
4 ⭐️ from me, and I am absolutely carrying on with the duet. 👀
May 30, 2025
Oh my god, I don’t even know where to start. Adeline Humphries is a master manipulator of words. A solid god tier dark romance for me, and 5/5 🌶️ check your TW’s before you read! My review will be spoiler free!
Adela is a very strong character. She is not the damsel in distress, she is a queen who can handle her own and fight her own battles. Adela is a complex character, she’s got multiple layers. No man has ever made her feel alive, until Rafe comes into the picture.
Rafe is extremely complex. He’s got so much going on, he’s a monster deep inside and he struggles for control. When his control slips, he’s someone unrecognizable. Rafe has never been in love, thought he was incapable of it. So what happens when he becomes obsessive and possessive over Adela?
This whole book had me in a chokehold. I could not stop reading when I picked it up. The plot was thick, its is very spice heavy, but the spice is perfect for the characters. The character development throughout this novel was top tier. There were some jaw dropping moments. A part where I cried for Adela for a few minutes. The obsession Rafe has for her was what had me in a chokehold the most. He is so unhinged, you never know what his next move will be. He is definitely a villain, he is morally black not gray that’s for sure. He’s never claimed to be a good guy with good morals. Throughout the story we get banter, spice, action, love, betrayal…
The spice. Oh. My. God. THE SPICE. 🥵 I have never read spicy scenes like these, these were mostly different from most I’ve read. There is some CNC in this book so definitely check TW’s if you’re sensitive to that kind of content. The way Rafe claims Adela? I melted over and over again.
The ending of this book has me on the edge of my seat for book two. Adeline Humphries will be an instant buy author for me. I cannot believe this was her debut novel?! Insane work, Adeline. God tier.
Happy reading! ✨
Adela is a very strong character. She is not the damsel in distress, she is a queen who can handle her own and fight her own battles. Adela is a complex character, she’s got multiple layers. No man has ever made her feel alive, until Rafe comes into the picture.
Rafe is extremely complex. He’s got so much going on, he’s a monster deep inside and he struggles for control. When his control slips, he’s someone unrecognizable. Rafe has never been in love, thought he was incapable of it. So what happens when he becomes obsessive and possessive over Adela?
This whole book had me in a chokehold. I could not stop reading when I picked it up. The plot was thick, its is very spice heavy, but the spice is perfect for the characters. The character development throughout this novel was top tier. There were some jaw dropping moments. A part where I cried for Adela for a few minutes. The obsession Rafe has for her was what had me in a chokehold the most. He is so unhinged, you never know what his next move will be. He is definitely a villain, he is morally black not gray that’s for sure. He’s never claimed to be a good guy with good morals. Throughout the story we get banter, spice, action, love, betrayal…
The spice. Oh. My. God. THE SPICE. 🥵 I have never read spicy scenes like these, these were mostly different from most I’ve read. There is some CNC in this book so definitely check TW’s if you’re sensitive to that kind of content. The way Rafe claims Adela? I melted over and over again.
The ending of this book has me on the edge of my seat for book two. Adeline Humphries will be an instant buy author for me. I cannot believe this was her debut novel?! Insane work, Adeline. God tier.
Happy reading! ✨
April 29, 2026
This book deserves more than a five star review. Love Adela and Rafe. 10/10 would recommend to everyone.
October 18, 2025
0 stars, negative -1000 stars.
Cannot say enough bad things…
This is single handedly the worst book I’ve ever read. Every single paragraph was a burden, every chapter was agony. I don’t DNF books & I had to see if there was even a single redeeming quality in these 400 pages - there was not.
This author should keep her day job, she literally does not know how to structure a sentence let alone a plot.
As an avid dark romance reader, I’m very well versed in dubious content. This was rape, FMC admits to it, and she still goes back to the MMC? He doesn’t even say he loves her until AFTER HE DOES IT???
There’s so much shit in the book that doesn’t make sense - AI could have written a better book. Major holes like the villain being fucking stupid. Don’t even get me started on the FMC. There was an entire chapter where the best friend’s name was Lauren but in the rest of the book her name is Laura???????? MMC is literally incapable of not just an original thought, but any thought at all.
Jesus Christ I only finished it so I could stand on this review with full confidence knowing this book was absolute ASS.
Make publishing hard again… for fuck sake. Don’t trust booktok, this wasn’t just a waste of my time, it was a waste of the author’s..
Cannot say enough bad things…
This is single handedly the worst book I’ve ever read. Every single paragraph was a burden, every chapter was agony. I don’t DNF books & I had to see if there was even a single redeeming quality in these 400 pages - there was not.
This author should keep her day job, she literally does not know how to structure a sentence let alone a plot.
As an avid dark romance reader, I’m very well versed in dubious content. This was rape, FMC admits to it, and she still goes back to the MMC? He doesn’t even say he loves her until AFTER HE DOES IT???
There’s so much shit in the book that doesn’t make sense - AI could have written a better book. Major holes like the villain being fucking stupid. Don’t even get me started on the FMC. There was an entire chapter where the best friend’s name was Lauren but in the rest of the book her name is Laura???????? MMC is literally incapable of not just an original thought, but any thought at all.
Jesus Christ I only finished it so I could stand on this review with full confidence knowing this book was absolute ASS.
Make publishing hard again… for fuck sake. Don’t trust booktok, this wasn’t just a waste of my time, it was a waste of the author’s..
December 14, 2025
Very dark romance which could be better
I was very intrigued when I read the blurb, but that scene with Rafe made me really think if I should continue with this duet (I did and second one si way better than the first one). I read mostly dark romance and the darker the better, but there is line for me and that is r@pe from main male character, that is just not justified for me and eventhough she forgave which I understand it is fiction, but I really hated him for it. Also the writting is very repetitive, how many times do you want to read that she is strong, she doesn’t want to end up like her mother or him claiming he is monster and she is his and no one touches her in the same words. I get that, but I don’t want to read it in every chapter. Also the spice was just too much for me, but it is just me I could do with less spicy scenes, but they were written very good. If you don’t read the epiloge than you don’t have to read the second one, but as I mentioned the second one is much better and way darker. What you can expect from this book:
• strong female, but weak for him
•possesive, OTT and so so so jealous antihero
• long list of TW like murder, r@pe between main charachters, dubcon, lots of violencw, childabuse,…
• sooooo many spice scene
• dual first person POV, but mostly from her side
I am between 2 or 3 ⭐️, but it is debut novel so I don’t want to be harsh. Also I apretiate that the chapters with TW are marked, but for me it was spoiler. I would write it at the end and mentioned in the begginging for those who wants be preparrd or have some TW scroll to the end, but for me with this, the book lost its dark sparkle.
I was very intrigued when I read the blurb, but that scene with Rafe made me really think if I should continue with this duet (I did and second one si way better than the first one). I read mostly dark romance and the darker the better, but there is line for me and that is r@pe from main male character, that is just not justified for me and eventhough she forgave which I understand it is fiction, but I really hated him for it. Also the writting is very repetitive, how many times do you want to read that she is strong, she doesn’t want to end up like her mother or him claiming he is monster and she is his and no one touches her in the same words. I get that, but I don’t want to read it in every chapter. Also the spice was just too much for me, but it is just me I could do with less spicy scenes, but they were written very good. If you don’t read the epiloge than you don’t have to read the second one, but as I mentioned the second one is much better and way darker. What you can expect from this book:
• strong female, but weak for him
•possesive, OTT and so so so jealous antihero
• long list of TW like murder, r@pe between main charachters, dubcon, lots of violencw, childabuse,…
• sooooo many spice scene
• dual first person POV, but mostly from her side
I am between 2 or 3 ⭐️, but it is debut novel so I don’t want to be harsh. Also I apretiate that the chapters with TW are marked, but for me it was spoiler. I would write it at the end and mentioned in the begginging for those who wants be preparrd or have some TW scroll to the end, but for me with this, the book lost its dark sparkle.
August 9, 2026
Guys idk how to feel like this book was super interesting and im excited about what will happen next but like rafe raped her did we forget about that 😭 or he just didn't do enough groveling for me, i need like a confirmation from ade that she actually forgives him or else idk cause that's not right. They need to like sit down and talk about that, all of rafe's problems that led up to that, etc. it kinda just felt like it happened, ade was super traumatized, they were both depressed for a while, he made her watch him kill someone (which btw she was restrained against her will so that's that), they had sex (??? what was the point of that) and then ade got in danger so he saved her (barely), which healed the beef? Idk man that don't feel too right. I hope they talk in the next book and we see more improvement from rafe bc it really don't seem life he learned much at all.
And girl stand tf up i know u not acting like how u acting over a man and going back to him for what reason. Poor laura having to witness you act like this AND you don't tell her shit even tho u claim she's ur bsf. Man i would hate to be her. It really don't feel like they're bsfs but lowkey maybe i just wanted more friendship yk. Also this taking these generous multiple day long breaks from your company might be a little bit crazy, it don't really seem like she's letting anyone (LAURA) know so I'm concerned, esp bc it seemed like she has such a hands on role in her company so her sudden disappearance could be odd. But that's not really an issue i guess maybe she is communicating or smth who knows
And girl stand tf up i know u not acting like how u acting over a man and going back to him for what reason. Poor laura having to witness you act like this AND you don't tell her shit even tho u claim she's ur bsf. Man i would hate to be her. It really don't feel like they're bsfs but lowkey maybe i just wanted more friendship yk. Also this taking these generous multiple day long breaks from your company might be a little bit crazy, it don't really seem like she's letting anyone (LAURA) know so I'm concerned, esp bc it seemed like she has such a hands on role in her company so her sudden disappearance could be odd. But that's not really an issue i guess maybe she is communicating or smth who knows
August 18, 2026
The Instagram reels made this look like the perfect dark romance, but it ended up breaking my heart in the worst way because the relationship balance and the plot felt completely unfair. The FMC gets tons of male attention and a chapter two hookup, but we never get to see women obsessing over the MMC. I kept waiting and hoping to see Adela get crazy jealous and possessive over her man—the exact way he gets over her—but it never happened. On top of the frustrating romance, the plot makes no sense. We are told Rafe is the most powerful, dangerous man in NYC who kills people just for pissing him off, yet the villain, Nicolas Morreau, is always ten steps ahead of him throughout the book. Morreau makes countless threats and tries to take Rafe down, but Rafe does absolutely nothing to him. Even when Morreau was laying low before Adela went to his house, Rafe had the perfect chance to make his move and completely wasted it. What infuriates me the most is the double standard in Rafe's anger. When he thought Adela betrayed him, he unleashed his full rage toward her, but he had no real reaction toward Morreau. Throughout the entire book, Rafe just kept saying how he would make the villain bleed and do blah blah blah, but he never actually did anything at all.
I hated the whole dynamic between adela & morreau & how it was written yikes 🤮 the other man drama was too much because of that I kept wanting for other woman drama from rafe's side too.
If you like romance dynamics where the intense jealousy goes both ways, or a dark mafia plot where the MMC is actually a smart, badass kingpin, this book will just deeply frustrate you.
I hated the whole dynamic between adela & morreau & how it was written yikes 🤮 the other man drama was too much because of that I kept wanting for other woman drama from rafe's side too.
If you like romance dynamics where the intense jealousy goes both ways, or a dark mafia plot where the MMC is actually a smart, badass kingpin, this book will just deeply frustrate you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
I wanted to like this book so much, I really did. I struggled to get through it. I almost DNF’ed more than once, but wanted to give this new author a chance.
First, he was her stalker, which ok I can get on board with this, however he reveals himself within the first couple of chapters. It would have been nice with more of a lead up to his reveal.
Then, they were in bed together again with in the fifth chapter, than she all of a sudden was living with him. The pace was too fast for this kind of book.
Don’t get me started on all the nicknames he had for her as well. Little doe? What is up with using animals for nicknames. It’s not attractive at all.
The FMC I think would have been just as impactful of a character if she only showed how powerful she was through actions, instead of constantly saying how powerful of a bitch she was throughout.
The MMC liked him at first, but then he raped her and that really killed it for me. That whole scene felt very unnecessary to me. Like be mad, fine, but he straight up raped her and she forgave him for it only a few chapters later and was back in bed with him. No! Absolutely not, I don’t care how much you love someone.
I had high hopes, but I will not continue onto the next book. Also, the author should have double checked formatted of the book. Mine had several pages that were duplicates, so that was annoying.
First, he was her stalker, which ok I can get on board with this, however he reveals himself within the first couple of chapters. It would have been nice with more of a lead up to his reveal.
Then, they were in bed together again with in the fifth chapter, than she all of a sudden was living with him. The pace was too fast for this kind of book.
Don’t get me started on all the nicknames he had for her as well. Little doe? What is up with using animals for nicknames. It’s not attractive at all.
The FMC I think would have been just as impactful of a character if she only showed how powerful she was through actions, instead of constantly saying how powerful of a bitch she was throughout.
The MMC liked him at first, but then he raped her and that really killed it for me. That whole scene felt very unnecessary to me. Like be mad, fine, but he straight up raped her and she forgave him for it only a few chapters later and was back in bed with him. No! Absolutely not, I don’t care how much you love someone.
I had high hopes, but I will not continue onto the next book. Also, the author should have double checked formatted of the book. Mine had several pages that were duplicates, so that was annoying.
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October 30, 2025Don't even get me started on how fucking awful this book was–getting raped and going back to the dude?!?!? are u fucking right in the head mate?!?!?!?! The fmc was painted to be someone with dark fantasies but there's literally nothing special with the way she does things with the mfc! plain, old, boring stuff! The mfc was nothing but a bitch who was constantly saying that I will make the enemy bleed whilst doing fucking nothing! the couple pissed me off so much with the way they were handling things when they were literally at WAR?!?! bitch wake the fuck up! the only character having a semblance of a brain was fmc's best friend–Lauren/Laura. The guy that was the enemy looked better in comparison to the mfc! the mfc had the same sob story and literally nothing was special about him or made him stand out! his dialogues form the book literally consisted of telling fmc that
"You're mine! tell me you're mine! Say it!
that's fucking it! I can say that the fmc had more guts than him! the fmc was painted to be a strong, independent boss lady who wouldn't turn out to be like her mother but that's exactly what she did! she got raped by the mfc and then was back in bed with him few days later because sHe LoVeD hIm! bitch, wtf! I'm so fucking over authors writing fmc getting raped by the mfc in the name of dark romance! for fucks sake–get your head checked!
"You're mine! tell me you're mine! Say it!
that's fucking it! I can say that the fmc had more guts than him! the fmc was painted to be a strong, independent boss lady who wouldn't turn out to be like her mother but that's exactly what she did! she got raped by the mfc and then was back in bed with him few days later because sHe LoVeD hIm! bitch, wtf! I'm so fucking over authors writing fmc getting raped by the mfc in the name of dark romance! for fucks sake–get your head checked!
October 12, 2025
What is this book actually about? Asserting dominance?? Something-dark??These words are repeated so often I almost thought I was reading a page twice.
Starting with the plot, we’re given a nurse-prisoner storyline and it was interesting. But soon the scene shifts with the nurse working for the police as an analyst. And don’t even get me started with the kidnapping her to a secluded place then releasing her and telling her to run.
But our female character is so smart that despite his warning to stay away from his business she snoops around because duh she’s a police officer now?? And somehow the guy knows. His mysterious aura is shit.
And I think it’s because they switch povs five times in a chapter. I don’t need explanations for his actions! What I need is a plot!!
And his backstory isn’t winning him any pity awards. Like I didn’t need to know you LOVED a woman 11 years ago and she betrayed you to explain your reclusive nature. And to readers who haven’t yet read this scene, trust me when I say it was executed so poorly I almost sobbed.
And how is he obsessive? By giving her a way out every time she cries?I’m 64% through and I’m determined to hate read it. Will give my two cents after finishing!
Starting with the plot, we’re given a nurse-prisoner storyline and it was interesting. But soon the scene shifts with the nurse working for the police as an analyst. And don’t even get me started with the kidnapping her to a secluded place then releasing her and telling her to run.
But our female character is so smart that despite his warning to stay away from his business she snoops around because duh she’s a police officer now?? And somehow the guy knows. His mysterious aura is shit.
And I think it’s because they switch povs five times in a chapter. I don’t need explanations for his actions! What I need is a plot!!
And his backstory isn’t winning him any pity awards. Like I didn’t need to know you LOVED a woman 11 years ago and she betrayed you to explain your reclusive nature. And to readers who haven’t yet read this scene, trust me when I say it was executed so poorly I almost sobbed.
And how is he obsessive? By giving her a way out every time she cries?I’m 64% through and I’m determined to hate read it. Will give my two cents after finishing!
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