A private school elitist with adark side. An insecure outsider from humble beginnings. A chance encounter that would change the course of their lives forever.
Both incoming freshmen at Dornell University, Kieren Hunt is inexplicably drawn to Monroe Campbell like a moth to a flame, and what starts as a budding infatuation quickly morphs into possessive obsession. She’s everything he’s not - no prestige, no wealth, a nobody - yet exactly what his controlling dominance craves. A blank canvas to mold.
He claimed her. He trained her. She would be his perfect pet.
It was destiny sealed with desire. It was obsession disguised as love.
It was the beginning of the end: the ill-fated origin of Kieren and Monroe.
READER NOTE: Claimed is the prequel novella to Caged and the origin point for the rest of the Sins of the Sigma series. However, you do not need to read Claimed before reading Caged. Claimed covers critical events between protagonists Kieren Hunt and Monroe Campbell during their freshman year, including how they met. The prequel novella is not meant to be a continuous story of their entire freshman year, but rather a peek behind the curtain into the early days of their romance. Readers may find Claimed helpful backstory to understand how and why Kieren’s obsession with Monroe came to be. Readers may also discover several Easter eggs in the prequel novella that come to light later in the series.
TROPESDark College RomanceInexperienced FMCAlpha MaleObsession and PossessionToxic LoveThe Power of Female FriendshipCONTENT WARNINGNarcissism, references to Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), narcissistic abuse and manipulationReferences to Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)GaslightingObsession and possessionDrug and alcohol useEmotional abuseDetailed and explicit two-person sex scenes that include elements of degradation, biting, bondage, pain play, primal play, and other BDSM elements.
Summer Robert is a recovering corporate girlie turned weaver of angsty, dark romance stories that are as suspenseful as they are salacious. She’s known for writing twisted and often emotionally devastating love stories with unhinged spice and gut-wrenching cliffhangers. Summer loves a good Easter egg written between the pages as much as she loves surviving off of caffeine and vibes. A fun fact about Summer is that she is a hoarder and self-proclaimed connoisseur of perfume and spends more time than she should debating what perfume her unapologetically strong FMCs wear (because your girl loves an innuendo). Most importantly, she's a mom of two small humans and one small, vicious, and spiteful yorkipoo. Summer currently resides in Los Angeles, and although she is originally a native Ohioan from a shockingly small farm town, she will forever call LA her home.
So caged was a pitch black romance. Maybe not even a romance but more an obsession. It was just an awesome read. But I think we needed this novella in between the books. Learn more about the characters and their backgrounds. It gives the story more depth.
The story was fast paced and Summer her writing style is addictive.
I allready loved her, but after this book so much more. Because Gabi is such a great friend and absolutely love the friendship between the girls. Also Jace is such a great guy in this book. The heartbreak really did a number on him. Kieren ow Kieren! I know he is crazy and pitch black an a real psychopath, but I still have a soft spot for him. I don't know why though😅😂. And it's great to see after this novella how much character growth Monroe had. Ow did I mention Knox. Rooting for the man. I hope he is endgame🖤
I absolutly can't wait for the second book of Kieren and Monroe.
My favorite quotes💬
"Do you know what I think you taste like, Monroe?" Kieren asks, pulling me out of daze. His lips graze my ear, and my breath catches in anticipation. "You taste like mine."
"I'm sitting in the front seat of a rollercoaster as it ascends - terrified, flushed with heat, yet ripe with anticipation of the thrill."
"Shhh, it's all part of your training, Monroe. You need to learn how to be my good little puppy, because, see, I've claimed you."
"I plan to fuck you on all fours like an absolute savage. I'm going to drive my dick so far up your tight little cunt, it'll rearrange your insides."
"What?" Gabi asks, looking earnestly perplexed. "It's me and you against the world, baby. If they want to come for you, they've got to go through me first."
"The devil doesn't deserve your tears, Monroe," Knox says. "Remember that."
"Ride or die, Monroe," she says, scanning my eyes with unwavering certainty. "Ride or fucking die, Gabi," I whisper in return as a warm feeling spreads across my body, and I realize something profound. I am not alone, but more than that, I am loved."
This novella was much needed! We got a little more on Kieren and Monroe and a little on Gabi and Jace! I absolutely loved this and couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait for what’s next in this series!!
I’ve been a follower of this author’s work for a while, but this latest release has completely redefined my obsession with her storytelling.
The character development for Monroe in this novella is incredible, and seeing how much she grew by the final page was a highlight of the story. The friendship between Monroe and Gabi is absolute "ride or die" goals; Gabi is such a supportive friend, and their bond feels so authentic.
The men of the Brotherhood are equally compelling, though Jace’s heartbreak really did a number on him in this installment.
As for Kieren, he is completely unhinged and a total psychopath, yet I still find myself having a massive soft spot for him, even if I can’t quite explain why. I am also fully invested in Knox and truly hope he ends up being endgame.
Claimed serves as a scorching introduction to the Sins of the Sigma world, focusing on the beginnings of obsession and sexual discovery.
We follow Monroe, a freshman at Dornell University who is desperate to use her education to rise above her small-town upbringing. When she meets Gabi, they quickly go from unofficial roommates to inseparable best friends.
Then there is Keiren, the wealthy legacy pledge to Sigma who is determined to rise through the ranks of the Brotherhood. He has a distinct appetite for deviant play and clearly intends to make Monroe his next target.
Please be sure to check the content warnings before diving in, as this is a dark college romance that explores intense themes including obsession and deviant behavior intended for mature audiences.
Claimed by Summer Roberts serves as the prequel novella to the Sins of the Sigma series, a short yet impactful story that gives readers a glimpse into how Kieren Hunt and Monroe Campbell first met, and how their intense love-hate dynamic began.
Despite its length, the novella does a great job of capturing the earlier, more innocent versions of Kieren and Monroe, before everything became as dark and complicated as it is in Caged. It’s almost surreal to see Monroe believing she’s falling for the classic college bad boy, while Kieren appears to be just that on the surface, though with hints of a deeper, secretive world tied to the Sigma brotherhood.
The backstory not only strengthens Kieren and Monroe’s relationship but also introduces more depth to Jace and Gabi, making it a valuable read before moving on to Collared, which focuses on their story. The dynamics between the characters, along with the eerie and intriguing setup of the Sigma brotherhood, are well established here and build anticipation for what’s to come next in the series.
What stands out most is the contrast between past and present. After reading Caged, this novella feels like stepping into a completely different emotional space, one that highlights just how much has changed. Kieren’s unhinged, chaotic nature remains present in glimpses, but Monroe’s first shyness and then emerging boldness add a compelling layer to their connection, making their dynamic feel unique and unpredictable.
Overall, Claimed is a quick but worthwhile read that enhances the main storyline and deepens the reader’s understanding of the characters. It left me both intrigued and conflicted, in the best way—and definitely eager to continue the series. That cliffhanger from Book 1 has me especially curious about what’s going on in Monroe’s mind in the present timeline.
But once again, thank you so much, Summer Robert, for this opportunity.
*** This is an ARC review and my initial thoughts.
ARC provided by the author. Even so, this review is left voluntarily and is of my own words.
I read Caged: Sins of the Sigma (Book 1): A Dark Secret Society Revenge Romance first, but it could be read before or after. The set up is simple.. freshmen year at Dornell. And while there are moments that have more meaning having read the main story first, it doesn't directly call anything out or feel like any info is missing.
Monroe • Keiran • Gabriella • Jace - main characters.
Claimed showed Monroe in a more vulnerable, naive light. New to a scene that she doesn't feel worthy of fitting into. Kerian dazzling her off her feet and accepting her anyways. Gabi questioning everything.
Cruel Intentions vibes all the way around. Be careful of who you kiss, suspect everyone.
The writing and layering of emotions make the story feel believable. It fits right in with Caged. Spice level of 3.5. Hot, fast, heartbreaking.
“The more I dwell on it, the more I’m unable to ignore it, and I can’t shake the feeling that this woman is both my beginning and my end; that we were meant to meet at that barbecue, that she will become the fire that gives me life. But she will also become the bullet that brings me death”
This was JUST what I needed to get the start of Monroe and Kieren’s relationship, because dear God do I love Kieren but also, Caged had me wondering HOW she would have ended up with him 😂 IYKYN.
I also loved getting to see the friendship of Monroe and Gabi. In Caged you for SURE see how much Gabi is a ride or die friend, but seeing their history and how they became friends was so perfect.
I will say, this is a prequel and I 100% recommend reading Caged first so when you read their history it means so much more and you’re already hooked on their story.
I love this series so much and I’m so excited for this series to continue.
I also will always love Kieren. I don’t even care that he’s insane, I will give away all of my morals for him.
The BEST dark romance prequel novella I have ever read!
Even though I have already read book one (Caged) I found myself wanting more. So excited for this whole series and have so many theories about what will happen.
Claimed is the beginning of the relationships. The beginning of sexual discovery. The beginning of obsession. Monroe is a freshman at Dornell University hoping to achieve an education that will elevate her from her small town, small money up bringing. Monroe meets Gabi and they go from unofficial roommates to ride or die best friends. Keiren is the rich legacy pledged to Sigma looking to rise the ranks of The Brotherhood and make a name for himself. He has quite the appetite for deviant play in the bedroom and he plans making Monroe his meal.
Be sure to read your trigger warnings! This isn't called a dark college romance for nothing. If you like the Lord series then Sins of the Sigma will be your new obsession.
Thank you Summer Robert for letting me read this as an ARC.
This prequel novella by Summer Robert is INCREDIBLE! It has so much back story in it that gives some serious insight into the characters, especially Monroe and Kieren.
I found myself just wanting to hug Monroe. To hold her tight and tell her she is worthy. The way she's been beaten down her whole life and the way you understand how she could possibly fall for someone like Kieren.
You also get a closer look at Kieren himself and you quickly release the darkness in him was always there. He's quick to control and manipulate everything around him, including Monroe. His dominating nature is clear as to why he descends into unhinged darkness in this series.
It also makes Monroes comeback so much stronger and you can't help but root for her success and Kieren's downfall.
Definitely a ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you @summerobert for the wonderful opportunity to read this arc.
Whew Chile! What a whirlwind this was! After having read Caged before this, I was intrigued by Monroe and Kiernan’s dynamics and how they even got together in the first place. Seeing how it all started gave me a bit more understanding of where Monroe’s headspace was (low-self esteem, wanting to feel loved, cptsd) and How Kiernan was able to target her and exploit her weakness for his benefit. My favorite scenes were between Monroe and Gabi! She’s such a girl’s girl and I loved seeing Monroe able to accept the love and support Gabi was able to show her.
I enjoyed this very much and highly recommend it if you like to see how everything came together.
WOW!!! I received this book early..and I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting! I could not put it down. I have read Caged..so going back to see how Monroe and Kieran’s relationship started was amazing!!!! Kieren 🥵🌶️ but mannnnnn Monroe put up with some stiff! And I love how and her and Gabi met and became BFFs. Then to see Gabi and Jace’s relationship ♥️. Loved it! I did cry at the end 😭. I really enjoyed the extra chapter for book 1. If you love dark academia romance like me..definitely recommend!!!!
This is the prequel I needed but I don’t know I needed! If you love Monroe and Kieren this story is their prequel! We get to see how they met and how they each felt towards one another other at the beginning. I loved all the internal dialogue and we get to see pre Sigma Kieren. And who Monroe was before she was “Kieren’s” Monroe. This book answered questions and made me ask even more! I can’t wait for the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have read the first two books and know the full messy story of Monroe and Kieren. It was fun to read how they first met and start to see how toxic they really are together from the start.
I know I should love or feel bad for Kieren but I guess myself and Monroe have the same thoughts "I can fix him no really I can"
I love a good prequel. Getting more insight to deepen a story I already love, amazing. They never stood a chance against their connection. Monroe and Kieren are the couple we hate to love and love to hate and I can’t get enough!!!
This quick read is full of emotional roller coasters, spicy scenes and lays the groundwork for the relationship between Kieren and Monroe, looking forward to reading book 1 Caged!