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Crestvale Killers #1
Specter
He’s my obsession and I own him. Whether he knows it or not.
Colson
Specter is danger personified and pure sex. He tempts me to break my own rules every time he comes into the club, but I’ve learned my lessons the hard way, and somehow I manage to keep my distance.
Until I can’t. When a stalker gets too close, the only place to run is straight to Specter. Instinctively I know he can help me, but am I trading one dangerous man for another?
I’m about to find out.
Specter
Colson’s face is permanently embedded in my mind. His sultry moves, sensual smile, and relentless teasing drives me to the brink of madness and I can’t get enough. He’s hands off, for reasons I don’t understand, and I plan to wear him down until he accepts what I already know.
He’s mine.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him.
Crestvale Killers is a contemporary MM romance series featuring morally gray hitmen and the men who fall in love with them.
Colson
Specter is danger personified and pure sex. He tempts me to break my own rules every time he comes into the club, but I’ve learned my lessons the hard way, and somehow I manage to keep my distance.
Until I can’t. When a stalker gets too close, the only place to run is straight to Specter. Instinctively I know he can help me, but am I trading one dangerous man for another?
I’m about to find out.
Specter
Colson’s face is permanently embedded in my mind. His sultry moves, sensual smile, and relentless teasing drives me to the brink of madness and I can’t get enough. He’s hands off, for reasons I don’t understand, and I plan to wear him down until he accepts what I already know.
He’s mine.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him.
Crestvale Killers is a contemporary MM romance series featuring morally gray hitmen and the men who fall in love with them.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 20, 2026
"𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚐𝚘𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚕 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚐𝚘𝚍𝚍𝚊𝚖𝚗 𝚘𝚛𝚐𝚊𝚜𝚖 𝚙𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊 𝚋𝚞𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚍."
The way this book starts out definitely sets the tone for this Hitman romance by Mia Monroe. I had a lot of fun reading it, especially meeting all the men living in the Crestvale House. I am super curious about all of them. What led them to being on Shadow's radar? Are all their origin stories similar to Spector's or did different circumstances lead them to where they are? I hope we find out in future books.
Spector was an absolute simp for Colson from the start. Where most of his life has spent being emotionless, he has all the feels when it comes to the burlesque dancer of his obsessions. It's almost like a fated mate imprints upon their other half, only in this pairing Colson takes some time to catch up.
"𝙸𝚝 𝚍𝚘𝚎𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝙸 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚝. 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚑𝚘𝚠 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚍𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚑𝚒𝚖, 𝚝𝚘 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚙 𝚑𝚒𝚖. 𝙰𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚜 𝚑𝚎'𝚜 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎, 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚊 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚋𝚕𝚎𝚖. 𝙸𝚏 𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎, 𝙸'𝚕𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚐𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝.
𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚎𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛."
Having adoration like that is a pretty heady thing so I can see why Colson needed time. He's used to attention being on his body in his line of work, but never has someone wanted the whole package. I loved how Spector just bided his time. He knew the only thing that was going to prove to Colson he was in it for keeps was to show him with actions.
There were multiple side plots going on alongside the romance. We have Colson's stalker who needed to be dealt with, but we also have a larger operation that I think may be likely to continue in the background. The next MC is going to be Wraith, whom we got to know a bit in this book. I look forward to learning more when his book comes out!
The way this book starts out definitely sets the tone for this Hitman romance by Mia Monroe. I had a lot of fun reading it, especially meeting all the men living in the Crestvale House. I am super curious about all of them. What led them to being on Shadow's radar? Are all their origin stories similar to Spector's or did different circumstances lead them to where they are? I hope we find out in future books.
Spector was an absolute simp for Colson from the start. Where most of his life has spent being emotionless, he has all the feels when it comes to the burlesque dancer of his obsessions. It's almost like a fated mate imprints upon their other half, only in this pairing Colson takes some time to catch up.
"𝙸𝚝 𝚍𝚘𝚎𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝙸 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚝. 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚑𝚘𝚠 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚍𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚌𝚑 𝚑𝚒𝚖, 𝚝𝚘 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚙 𝚑𝚒𝚖. 𝙰𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚜 𝚑𝚎'𝚜 𝚌𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚎, 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚊 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚋𝚕𝚎𝚖. 𝙸𝚏 𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎, 𝙸'𝚕𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚐𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝.
𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚎𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎. 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛."
Having adoration like that is a pretty heady thing so I can see why Colson needed time. He's used to attention being on his body in his line of work, but never has someone wanted the whole package. I loved how Spector just bided his time. He knew the only thing that was going to prove to Colson he was in it for keeps was to show him with actions.
There were multiple side plots going on alongside the romance. We have Colson's stalker who needed to be dealt with, but we also have a larger operation that I think may be likely to continue in the background. The next MC is going to be Wraith, whom we got to know a bit in this book. I look forward to learning more when his book comes out!
March 22, 2026
This is a forced proximity to more dark romance, featuring Colson and Specter, and is book one in the Crestvale Killers series.
When a stalker threatens Colson’s safety, he’s forced to turn to the one man he fears might be just as dangerous. As obsession blurs into more, Specter is determined to claim Colson, no matter what it takes.
This book sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down. Specter is super intense, he fell hard for Colson the second he laid eyes on him. Colson, the other hand, had his walls up to protect himself. I loved seeing those walls come down, and Specter prove his devotion to Colson.
There is a great found family in this series and I look forward to seeing what happens next. Can someone tell me if Shadow has a book before this series, I’m going to need to read that.
Ps. I would totally go to this club.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM dark romance
Check CW
Club dancer x Hitman
Stalker threat
Mystery / suspense
Insta-love/obsession
His mine vibes
MC with freckles
Protective & jealous
Hurt / Comfort
Forced proximity
Only one bed
Spicy times & dirty talk
Pierced c*ck
Worships him
Biting & marking
Carries him
Touch him and 💀
HEA
When a stalker threatens Colson’s safety, he’s forced to turn to the one man he fears might be just as dangerous. As obsession blurs into more, Specter is determined to claim Colson, no matter what it takes.
This book sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down. Specter is super intense, he fell hard for Colson the second he laid eyes on him. Colson, the other hand, had his walls up to protect himself. I loved seeing those walls come down, and Specter prove his devotion to Colson.
There is a great found family in this series and I look forward to seeing what happens next. Can someone tell me if Shadow has a book before this series, I’m going to need to read that.
Ps. I would totally go to this club.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM dark romance
Check CW
Club dancer x Hitman
Stalker threat
Mystery / suspense
Insta-love/obsession
His mine vibes
MC with freckles
Protective & jealous
Hurt / Comfort
Forced proximity
Only one bed
Spicy times & dirty talk
Pierced c*ck
Worships him
Biting & marking
Carries him
Touch him and 💀
HEA
April 1, 2026
I liked it. It definitely had vibes from her vampire series, which I liked a lot. I love murdery found family anyway... 🥰🖤 Unfortunately, I had some problems keeping up... Too many sex scenes, too little murder, I was a bit booored 😅🙈 ... but I still enjoyed getting to know Specter and Colsen. I probably would have just felt it more with a teeny tiny bit PNR...
3.5☆ and I'm looking forward to volume 2...
3.5☆ and I'm looking forward to volume 2...
May 28, 2026
Cashmere & Specter
The writing is beautiful, and Mia has such great talent. I really enjoyed the characters and how unique they were. I especially loved the descriptions and atmosphere—particularly the dance scenes.
I loved the story right up until the climax, where things started to fall flat for me. I could have accepted it, but then Specter bragged about what he did in a way that felt a little cringe-worthy, and I just couldn’t fully get behind it.
Some of the dialogue between the two MMCs also felt overexplained and unnecessary at times. Parts of it were so overly swoony that they bordered on cheesy—almost cringey. I really wanted this to become another series I couldn’t put down, but now I’m unsure if I want to continue with the next book.
Still, there were some genuinely beautiful moments that I can’t stop thinking about. The spice wasn’t excessive, but it felt meaningful.
The verdict is still out. Maybe I’ll give the second book a go…
The writing is beautiful, and Mia has such great talent. I really enjoyed the characters and how unique they were. I especially loved the descriptions and atmosphere—particularly the dance scenes.
I loved the story right up until the climax, where things started to fall flat for me. I could have accepted it, but then Specter bragged about what he did in a way that felt a little cringe-worthy, and I just couldn’t fully get behind it.
Some of the dialogue between the two MMCs also felt overexplained and unnecessary at times. Parts of it were so overly swoony that they bordered on cheesy—almost cringey. I really wanted this to become another series I couldn’t put down, but now I’m unsure if I want to continue with the next book.
Still, there were some genuinely beautiful moments that I can’t stop thinking about. The spice wasn’t excessive, but it felt meaningful.
The verdict is still out. Maybe I’ll give the second book a go…
April 14, 2026
love
Watching these two fall was so fun. I love the banter and the back and forth with these two. Watching those walls fall and these two melt into each other was amazing. Cause wouldn’t that be amazing to have someone love you that much. A person who would burn it for you. They would do everything to make sure you were safe and loved. That is this book. That’s this love. As fun as the tug a war these two were just perfect for each other.
Writing was good the spice was great. Excited to see which other finds their person. Maybe learn about a certain leader and his person.
In the know:
Dual pov
No cheating/sharing (though it could bother some that he keeps his job)
No ow/om drama (stalker)
European diversity
Watching these two fall was so fun. I love the banter and the back and forth with these two. Watching those walls fall and these two melt into each other was amazing. Cause wouldn’t that be amazing to have someone love you that much. A person who would burn it for you. They would do everything to make sure you were safe and loved. That is this book. That’s this love. As fun as the tug a war these two were just perfect for each other.
Writing was good the spice was great. Excited to see which other finds their person. Maybe learn about a certain leader and his person.
In the know:
Dual pov
No cheating/sharing (though it could bother some that he keeps his job)
No ow/om drama (stalker)
European diversity
March 25, 2026
Specter the man that you are!!!! Talk about a man who is obsessive and self-assured, yes, please. This was a perfect ratio of obsession, possessiveness, protectiveness, heat, and passion! The freedom Specter gives Cashmere is simply stunning and breathtakingly secure. It was refreshing to read this story, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the brothers and their found family dynamic.
March 18, 2026
This was a fun read! I loved Specter and Cashmere so much! Specter's respectful obsession was sooooo good! I love an obsessed character, but Specter's respectful obsession is something else. Cashmere is closed off because of his past and Specter works so hard to gain his trust and ultimately his love. Both of their pasts are far from ideal and I loved seeing them open up to each other and build a strong bond. I also really enjoyed seeing them worship each other, their intimacy felt special and truly worshipful.
I love the found family at the Crestvale House. I loved the banter between everyone. It's a family I really want to know more about and see more of them interact with each other.
This was a fun, dark but still somewhat lighthearted read that I really enjoyed. I'm definitely very excited to see where this series goes.
I love the found family at the Crestvale House. I loved the banter between everyone. It's a family I really want to know more about and see more of them interact with each other.
This was a fun, dark but still somewhat lighthearted read that I really enjoyed. I'm definitely very excited to see where this series goes.
April 28, 2026
This was alright, but I honestly expected more. For a book that has a stripper x obsessive hitman dynamic, it got boring at times. I thought the problem might be me not being in the mood, but I read some other reviews and I wasn't the only one that got tired of it during some moments.
I just wanted more plot and couldn't really care about the sex scenes much. And listen, I love reading smut, I just think the initial spark wasn't there during the second half of the book. I was also expecting the climax to be more thrilling, but I felt that it was solved pretty easily and without drama. It was disappointing.
Other things I wasn't a fan of was some of the internal dialogue, it became cheesy at times. Mentions of "cock twiching" and "winks" had me cringing too, I hate them in romance books and just in general honestly. Some of the possessive scenes felt corny as well, but not all thankfully.
My last issue was that I felt MC ended up trusting ML faster than I wanted. Sure, it was the best option he had at that time, but I wanted that doubt to be stretched out more, and especially to take a bit more time before sharing his backstory with ML.
Besides that, I feel like this was okay. I liked the premise, a hitman becoming obsessed with a pretty stripper was interesting, and even more after discovering MC had a dark past that was coming back to get him. I felt the chemistry the most during the first half and it's one of the reasons I liked it the best, the other being that I enjoyed the stalking scenes. I wanted to feel creeped out and that was something I needed more of.
Ultimately, this was a book that perhaps needed less pages and to be better structured, plus some arrangements about the stalker subplot. It's still decent for a book with such premise, I still had fun during some parts and that's what counts for me.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
I just wanted more plot and couldn't really care about the sex scenes much. And listen, I love reading smut, I just think the initial spark wasn't there during the second half of the book. I was also expecting the climax to be more thrilling, but I felt that it was solved pretty easily and without drama. It was disappointing.
Other things I wasn't a fan of was some of the internal dialogue, it became cheesy at times. Mentions of "cock twiching" and "winks" had me cringing too, I hate them in romance books and just in general honestly. Some of the possessive scenes felt corny as well, but not all thankfully.
My last issue was that I felt MC ended up trusting ML faster than I wanted. Sure, it was the best option he had at that time, but I wanted that doubt to be stretched out more, and especially to take a bit more time before sharing his backstory with ML.
Besides that, I feel like this was okay. I liked the premise, a hitman becoming obsessed with a pretty stripper was interesting, and even more after discovering MC had a dark past that was coming back to get him. I felt the chemistry the most during the first half and it's one of the reasons I liked it the best, the other being that I enjoyed the stalking scenes. I wanted to feel creeped out and that was something I needed more of.
Ultimately, this was a book that perhaps needed less pages and to be better structured, plus some arrangements about the stalker subplot. It's still decent for a book with such premise, I still had fun during some parts and that's what counts for me.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
March 20, 2026
Here's "Specter" by Mia Monroe. It's the first novel in the Crestvale Killers series.
["He’s my obsession and I own him. Whether he knows it or not.
Colson
Specter is danger personified and pure sex. He tempts me to break my own rules every time he comes into the club, but I’ve learned my lessons the hard way, and somehow I manage to keep my distance.
Until I can’t. When a stalker gets too close, the only place to run is straight to Specter. Instinctively I know he can help me, but am I trading one dangerous man for another?
I’m about to find out.
Specter
Colson’s face is permanently embedded in my mind. His sultry moves, sensual smile, and relentless teasing drives me to the brink of madness and I can’t get enough. He’s hands off, for reasons I don’t understand, and I plan to wear him down until he accepts what I already know.
He’s mine.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him."]
For a dark romance and the MC being a serial killer, the MC-serial-killer is a fucking consent king. "Don't touch me." Specter listened. "I need space." Specter listened. “I want you to live for me.” Specter listened.
Honestly, this don’t feel like a dark romance. If you put Specters occupation, mild stalking, and sudden, all consuming obsession aside. It was delightfully sweet and kind and filled with consent and vulnerabilities and trust.
Though, there were parts that I felt as if I was missing something, a prequel or something.
Trigger Warnings: homophobic slur, discussion of past SA, descriptions of SA and minors at risk of trafficking, discussions about suicide attempt and drug abuse, graphic violence, stalking and brief physical assault, and more.
#specter #wraith #crestvalekillers #crestvalekillersseries #miamonroe #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["He’s my obsession and I own him. Whether he knows it or not.
Colson
Specter is danger personified and pure sex. He tempts me to break my own rules every time he comes into the club, but I’ve learned my lessons the hard way, and somehow I manage to keep my distance.
Until I can’t. When a stalker gets too close, the only place to run is straight to Specter. Instinctively I know he can help me, but am I trading one dangerous man for another?
I’m about to find out.
Specter
Colson’s face is permanently embedded in my mind. His sultry moves, sensual smile, and relentless teasing drives me to the brink of madness and I can’t get enough. He’s hands off, for reasons I don’t understand, and I plan to wear him down until he accepts what I already know.
He’s mine.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him."]
For a dark romance and the MC being a serial killer, the MC-serial-killer is a fucking consent king. "Don't touch me." Specter listened. "I need space." Specter listened. “I want you to live for me.” Specter listened.
Honestly, this don’t feel like a dark romance. If you put Specters occupation, mild stalking, and sudden, all consuming obsession aside. It was delightfully sweet and kind and filled with consent and vulnerabilities and trust.
Though, there were parts that I felt as if I was missing something, a prequel or something.
Trigger Warnings: homophobic slur, discussion of past SA, descriptions of SA and minors at risk of trafficking, discussions about suicide attempt and drug abuse, graphic violence, stalking and brief physical assault, and more.
#specter #wraith #crestvalekillers #crestvalekillersseries #miamonroe #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
March 27, 2026
Cashmere is Colson’s stage name, he is sex on a stick. Specter can’t get his eyes off the dancer. Colson is so beautiful and mesmerizing.
Specter is an assassin. He’s part of and lives with a close ‘family’ who kill bad people.
Every night, Colson performs, Specter is there, in the same chair, super focused on the beautiful dancer. Specter tried to connect with Colson, to show him what he can give him, but the man keeps him at arm’s length.
Gosh, he could make him happy and protect him where necessary.
Ha! Colson does need a protector, but will not give in.
When Colson got attacked on the street, he turned to Specter for help. He did the right thing because Specter and his colleagues/chosen family will protect him.
Specter worships the ground Colson walks on, but he’s still kept at arm’s length.
Specter offers him everything, day after day.
While Colson has an independent strike, Specter is irresistible. Finally!
Both have a hurtful history, but Colson’s darker past collides with the present.
I won’t give away too much of this story, but it was enthralling as f*ck.
My goodness, this was a super duper intense story. I loved the concept and certainly the execution! The author did a wonderful, convincing job, combining dark elements, excitement, and angst with a super smexy romance and sweetness. The characters were excellently crafted.
I was plastered to the pages. I loved everything about this story.
Can’t wait for the next one in this series.
Review also on Love Bytes LGBTQ reviews
Specter is an assassin. He’s part of and lives with a close ‘family’ who kill bad people.
Every night, Colson performs, Specter is there, in the same chair, super focused on the beautiful dancer. Specter tried to connect with Colson, to show him what he can give him, but the man keeps him at arm’s length.
Gosh, he could make him happy and protect him where necessary.
Ha! Colson does need a protector, but will not give in.
When Colson got attacked on the street, he turned to Specter for help. He did the right thing because Specter and his colleagues/chosen family will protect him.
Specter worships the ground Colson walks on, but he’s still kept at arm’s length.
Specter offers him everything, day after day.
While Colson has an independent strike, Specter is irresistible. Finally!
Both have a hurtful history, but Colson’s darker past collides with the present.
I won’t give away too much of this story, but it was enthralling as f*ck.
My goodness, this was a super duper intense story. I loved the concept and certainly the execution! The author did a wonderful, convincing job, combining dark elements, excitement, and angst with a super smexy romance and sweetness. The characters were excellently crafted.
I was plastered to the pages. I loved everything about this story.
Can’t wait for the next one in this series.
Review also on Love Bytes LGBTQ reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a fan of Mia Monroe's. I'm enjoying these morally gray characters she's writing about lately. I liked the contemporary romances that Mia started her writing career with, but the dive into paranormal and, now, assassins-for-hire has really made her writing blossom.
Spector is about Cashmere, who is a dancer with a heart of gold, and an assassin named Spector who is obsessed with Cashmere -- almost to the point that Cashmere has to tell him to step back when his obsession blurs the lines. Cashmere asks what makes Spector different than the stalker that he currently has, and Spector realizes he's crossed a line.
When Cashmere's stalker steps up their game and almost kidnaps him, he breaks down and asks Spector to help him. Spector recruits his assassin family for help, and they oblige, while making Spector realize that the more time he spends with Cashmere, the more he's fallen for the man. Their chemistry is off the charts, as well as their quiet moments.
I really wanted a little more history of the 'Crestvale Killers' - how they all found each other - how Bellamy and Wolfe got together, etc. The prequel gave us a taste, but not enough of the history.
Overall, a fantastic start to an exciting new series.
Spector is about Cashmere, who is a dancer with a heart of gold, and an assassin named Spector who is obsessed with Cashmere -- almost to the point that Cashmere has to tell him to step back when his obsession blurs the lines. Cashmere asks what makes Spector different than the stalker that he currently has, and Spector realizes he's crossed a line.
When Cashmere's stalker steps up their game and almost kidnaps him, he breaks down and asks Spector to help him. Spector recruits his assassin family for help, and they oblige, while making Spector realize that the more time he spends with Cashmere, the more he's fallen for the man. Their chemistry is off the charts, as well as their quiet moments.
I really wanted a little more history of the 'Crestvale Killers' - how they all found each other - how Bellamy and Wolfe got together, etc. The prequel gave us a taste, but not enough of the history.
Overall, a fantastic start to an exciting new series.
Read
March 18, 2026Specter is an addictive blend of danger, obsession, and slow‑building trust that hooked me from the first chapter. Cashmere, a dancer with a heart of gold, is instantly endearing, and Spector—an assassin with tunnel‑vision intensity—walks a razor’s edge between protector and threat. The book doesn’t shy away from showing when that intensity goes too far, and Cashmere calling him out for crossing the line is one of the most powerful moments in the story. It forces Specter to confront the difference between devotion and obsession, and that emotional honesty really elevates their dynamic. When Cashmere’s stalker escalates to a terrifying near‑kidnapping, the vulnerability that follows feels raw and real. His decision to turn to Specter isn’t framed as a weakness but as trust, and Specter’s response—bringing in his assassin family to protect him—adds a thrilling found‑family element. The Crestvale Killers are chaotic, loyal, and fascinating, and every scene with them adds depth and humor. The chemistry between Cashmere and Specter is off the charts, but the quiet moments are just as compelling. Their connection feels lived‑in, tender, and earned.
April 6, 2026
Specter - and Cashmere
“I thought it would be terrifying,” I admit. “Feeling something again.” I squeeze his hand. “And it is.” Laughing softly, I wipe my eyes. “And that’s okay. Turns out it’s better to feel something than nothing at all. When you were covered in blood and we didn’t know how bad it was, I realized that losing you would destroy me, but it was still a better outcome than never knowing you at all.”
Mia Monroe can add so many emotions to the written word that reading her stories makes you feel each type.
We meet Specter, who lives with his ‘brothers’, who we will get to read more about as the Crestvale Killers series continues, who cannot seem to stay away from exotic dancer Cashmere no matter how hard he tries.
Colson, aka Cashmere, looks forward to seeing his favorite fan sitting front and center at his wildly popular shes, yet he keeps him at arms length, because he knows that feelings hurt.
This is a fabulous beginning to what I am sure will be another fantastic series by Mia!
“I thought it would be terrifying,” I admit. “Feeling something again.” I squeeze his hand. “And it is.” Laughing softly, I wipe my eyes. “And that’s okay. Turns out it’s better to feel something than nothing at all. When you were covered in blood and we didn’t know how bad it was, I realized that losing you would destroy me, but it was still a better outcome than never knowing you at all.”
Mia Monroe can add so many emotions to the written word that reading her stories makes you feel each type.
We meet Specter, who lives with his ‘brothers’, who we will get to read more about as the Crestvale Killers series continues, who cannot seem to stay away from exotic dancer Cashmere no matter how hard he tries.
Colson, aka Cashmere, looks forward to seeing his favorite fan sitting front and center at his wildly popular shes, yet he keeps him at arms length, because he knows that feelings hurt.
This is a fabulous beginning to what I am sure will be another fantastic series by Mia!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Beauty is to be found and savored in this sometimes cruel existence."
I've been a fan of Mia Monroe's books for a while now, but Specter is easily one of my favorites of hers! It is sexy, suspenseful, and steamy, and a perfect balance of all three.
Specter takes one look at Cashmere and falls hard. Cashmere has some serious trust issues and doesn't buy that Specter is as good as he seems, but he really is a man who would burn the world down for Cashmere.
I loved seeing this very tough hired killer being so down bad for someone. Cashmere deserves all the love, too.
I'm excited to see what happens with the other hitmen that are part of Specter's found family. They may be a motley crew, but they definitely protect the ones that they love.
I definitely stayed up too late more than one night in a row reading this one! I'm tired but so happy to have read it. If you enjoy morally grey men and explicit MM love stories, do yourself a favor and pick this one up!
I've been a fan of Mia Monroe's books for a while now, but Specter is easily one of my favorites of hers! It is sexy, suspenseful, and steamy, and a perfect balance of all three.
Specter takes one look at Cashmere and falls hard. Cashmere has some serious trust issues and doesn't buy that Specter is as good as he seems, but he really is a man who would burn the world down for Cashmere.
I loved seeing this very tough hired killer being so down bad for someone. Cashmere deserves all the love, too.
I'm excited to see what happens with the other hitmen that are part of Specter's found family. They may be a motley crew, but they definitely protect the ones that they love.
I definitely stayed up too late more than one night in a row reading this one! I'm tired but so happy to have read it. If you enjoy morally grey men and explicit MM love stories, do yourself a favor and pick this one up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Specter by Mia Monroe is the first book in a new “Morally Gray” series by the author. It introduces us to the group of Hired Killers from the Crestvale House. In Specter we are introduced to Specter, an assassin for hire who has an obsession with Dancer Cashmere. When Cashmere has a problem with a stalker he turns to Specter for protection. As we dig deeper into the characters history we are given the story of two people that life did major damage to, but both are able to work through those hardships to find a life that brings them happiness, even if its a bit non-conformative. Specter slowly and carefully shows Cashmere that people and love can be trusted to be there for you at both high and low moments and that family comes in all different manners. As a fan of Mia Monroe, this was another fantastic story that brought both the emotion and the heat that I look for in a book. Can’t wait to see what else in in store for our Crestvale House Killers in future books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mia takes a step away from her usual by going into her version of darker contemporary. You still feel Mia's style but with a darker twist, that blends her contemporary style with her paranormal vibes. Specter finds Cashmere desirable and wants to get to know the man. You do not always get what you see when it comes to either man's pasts and futures, and that's what brings and holds these men together. Neither can live without the other.
When Cashmere seeks Specter for help their two worlds collide and blend together in a uniquely them way. Specter shows him what is to be free and your truest self. Cashmere shows him how to be open and loved. With the rest of the Crestvale Killers as a supporting cast, you cannot help but want to see more from this world. The found family aspect shows Mia at her best and how she incorporates her style into this darker style while still keeping true to herself as an author. I cannot wait to see what Mia comes up with next from this world.
When Cashmere seeks Specter for help their two worlds collide and blend together in a uniquely them way. Specter shows him what is to be free and your truest self. Cashmere shows him how to be open and loved. With the rest of the Crestvale Killers as a supporting cast, you cannot help but want to see more from this world. The found family aspect shows Mia at her best and how she incorporates her style into this darker style while still keeping true to herself as an author. I cannot wait to see what Mia comes up with next from this world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25⭐️
This was a familiar feel straight from the start. I got the same vibes as Mia’s Last Call series, mixed with those of KM Neuhold’s Mafia Bound one - both of which I love - so I felt enveloped by these characters and their story from the first word.
I loved both characters - Specter’s possessiveness, stalker like attention and poetic waxing, as well as Cashmere/Colson’s skittishness and guarded front. I just wanted Cashmere to give in to Specter and let himself be loved but I enjoyed his journey getting there.
Stacks of spice once we reach it - Specter is off the charts - and I was invested in the resolution of Cashmere’s situation. The story also took a twist I didn’t see coming and I was wrapped up in that too, as well as Specter’s “murder buddies”.
This is now one of my favourite Mia books.
Bring on book 2.
This was a familiar feel straight from the start. I got the same vibes as Mia’s Last Call series, mixed with those of KM Neuhold’s Mafia Bound one - both of which I love - so I felt enveloped by these characters and their story from the first word.
I loved both characters - Specter’s possessiveness, stalker like attention and poetic waxing, as well as Cashmere/Colson’s skittishness and guarded front. I just wanted Cashmere to give in to Specter and let himself be loved but I enjoyed his journey getting there.
Stacks of spice once we reach it - Specter is off the charts - and I was invested in the resolution of Cashmere’s situation. The story also took a twist I didn’t see coming and I was wrapped up in that too, as well as Specter’s “murder buddies”.
This is now one of my favourite Mia books.
Bring on book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I pride myself on my ability to take care of myself, but it’s kind of nice to think that maybe just this once I don’t have to."
This is book 1 in a new series called Crestvale Killers by Mia Monroe. I'll call these "murder buddies" murderers with heart. I really enjoyed the prequel freebie, Hitman Hookup, but this one was a bit too intense for me. I'm more into the fluffier side of this genre. Don't get me wrong, this wasn't an in your face kind of book it was more telling than showing during the tense scenes and not as gory as some books I've read, but still contained more violence and sadness than I prefer.
A hired killer with a big crush, an exotic dancer hiding past hurts, hurt/comfort, realizing they are just what the other needs, I sure wish I knew French, brings the heat
This is book 1 in a new series called Crestvale Killers by Mia Monroe. I'll call these "murder buddies" murderers with heart. I really enjoyed the prequel freebie, Hitman Hookup, but this one was a bit too intense for me. I'm more into the fluffier side of this genre. Don't get me wrong, this wasn't an in your face kind of book it was more telling than showing during the tense scenes and not as gory as some books I've read, but still contained more violence and sadness than I prefer.
A hired killer with a big crush, an exotic dancer hiding past hurts, hurt/comfort, realizing they are just what the other needs, I sure wish I knew French, brings the heat
Review of advance copy received from Author
I almost didn’t pick this ARC up because I didn’t think I’d have the time to read it *and* do it justice but today I had a free day, took a chance on it, and wow… I’m so glad I did.
This one really surprised me. Dark romance isn’t usually at the very top of my favorites list (I’ll read it, but it’s not my go-to), but this story completely pulled me in.
Spector's obsession is definitely intense and a bit over-the-top at times, but the author somehow makes it work within the story. I also really appreciated the character dynamics, there’s trauma, emotional walls, and vulnerability, but it doesn’t drag on forever. The author handled those elements in a way that felt natural without stretching it across endless chapters.
Overall, this ended up being the best use of my day, and I’m genuinely excited for the rest of the series.
This one really surprised me. Dark romance isn’t usually at the very top of my favorites list (I’ll read it, but it’s not my go-to), but this story completely pulled me in.
Spector's obsession is definitely intense and a bit over-the-top at times, but the author somehow makes it work within the story. I also really appreciated the character dynamics, there’s trauma, emotional walls, and vulnerability, but it doesn’t drag on forever. The author handled those elements in a way that felt natural without stretching it across endless chapters.
Overall, this ended up being the best use of my day, and I’m genuinely excited for the rest of the series.
March 18, 2026
A dark mysterious hitman finds himself obsessed with a sexy sultry dancer. Specter finds himself at a club one night and immediately drawn to one of the dancers. His looks and sultry dances have him hooked from day 1. He pursues Cashmere nightly but the walls around his heart are sky high. At the same time, Cashmere finds himself in the crosshairs of a sick and twisted stalker. Still unsure of Specter’s intentions but feeling safe around him otherwise, he moves into a house full of paid unalivers and finds a new home filled with wonderful people regardless of their jobs. Specter will stop at nothing to protect Cashmere and is determined to win his heart at the same time.
I absolutely loved this darker side of Mia Monroe and can’t wait to see the rest of this crew of hitmen find love!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I absolutely loved this darker side of Mia Monroe and can’t wait to see the rest of this crew of hitmen find love!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 19, 2026
Specter and Cashmere/Colson are interesting together. I love their interactions at the beginning of the book. Specter has made his claim on Cashmere, but he also respects his limits and doesn't push...much. The flirting that they do with each other is great and you feel their struggle.
Cashmere ends up getting a stalker and some threats. Specter is there when he needs him and even when he doesn't. Colson has a lot of baggage from his past and it takes him awhile to open up and share his history with Specter. We learn a lot about both of them and what brought them to where they are now.
I loved this book and read it so fast. The characters are interesting and you want to know more about them all. I can't wait for the next books in this series since everyone is unique. I like Specter's "brothers" and the guys at Segreto too. This is an amazing start to a new series.
Cashmere ends up getting a stalker and some threats. Specter is there when he needs him and even when he doesn't. Colson has a lot of baggage from his past and it takes him awhile to open up and share his history with Specter. We learn a lot about both of them and what brought them to where they are now.
I loved this book and read it so fast. The characters are interesting and you want to know more about them all. I can't wait for the next books in this series since everyone is unique. I like Specter's "brothers" and the guys at Segreto too. This is an amazing start to a new series.
March 20, 2026
Book one of this author’s morally gray, assassin for hire, team of found family is off to a great start. Specter has been “stalking” his new obsession Cashmere (Colson)ever since he first saw him at the burlesque club. Cashmere is aware of Specter’s desire of him, but d/t his history he doesn’t give him any more than his public persona at the club. When someone from his past starts to threaten his life he runs to the only one he feels safe around, Specter. And Specter vows to protect him at all costs, even if that cost is himself. But, spending so much time together has its perks. Steamy perks that lower the walls each man has built up to protect their hearts. What they find once trust is given is a love worth protecting and a found family that Cashmere thought was no longer in the cards for him. Their HEA was definitely satisfying and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
May 8, 2026
Funny, Sexy
This is a great start to the series. One of the best parts is there isn't a lot of nonsense writing to develop backgrounds or repetitive descriptions. It's all built into the dialogue which I absolutely love. Instead of pages upon pages of development it's all dialogue development which is amazing. You listen and read as all the characters get to know each other. Their emotions are in their words and how they interact and I absolutely love that. I'm usually a hardcore 5🌶🥵 reader but this is more a 2.5/3 and I absolutely did not think I would like it as much but it was perfect. The spice is on point and just enough to get you over the edge but it's the writing and the teasing and the buildup that you don't miss the page upon page of spice that I normally enjoy. This is a definitely new author to follow for mm Romance
This is a great start to the series. One of the best parts is there isn't a lot of nonsense writing to develop backgrounds or repetitive descriptions. It's all built into the dialogue which I absolutely love. Instead of pages upon pages of development it's all dialogue development which is amazing. You listen and read as all the characters get to know each other. Their emotions are in their words and how they interact and I absolutely love that. I'm usually a hardcore 5🌶🥵 reader but this is more a 2.5/3 and I absolutely did not think I would like it as much but it was perfect. The spice is on point and just enough to get you over the edge but it's the writing and the teasing and the buildup that you don't miss the page upon page of spice that I normally enjoy. This is a definitely new author to follow for mm Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMg. So so good. Specter has been going to a club for months to watch Cashmere dance. He is so fascinated and obsessed with him. Cashmere has been alone for 10 years and taking care of himself. He know that Specter wants him, but he keeps his distance. One day Specter gives him his business card and tells him to call him if anything and leaves him alone for three weeks. Cashmere has been receiving gifts and has a stalker. After one night, when Cashmere almost gets kidnapped, he goes to Specter’s house. The story starts from there where they try to figure out who is stalking Cashmere and how to keep,him safe and loved how Cashmere opened up to Specter and told him his backstory. Cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Specter” is the first book by Mia Monroe in her new series, Crestville Killers. I could not have loved this book more. I don’t think there is anything Mia Monroe cannot write: contemporary - check, paranormal - check, morally gray killers - check, check! Not only are Specter and Cashmere wonderful characters but the secondary characters are fabulous as well. The story pulled me right in and I really didn’t want to put it down. I love this authors style of writing, the stories just flow and have so many relatable pieces. In the midst of dark and serious you get sweet and laugh out loud. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
March 20, 2026
if you like your men obsessed, possessive and willing to burn the world down just to make sure you are safe then this should be your next read!!
1st person POV Dual
MM
Plot 5/5
Spice 2/5
Hitman / burlesque dancer
Hurt / comfort
Found Family
Specter is instantly obsessed with Cashmere/ Colson as soon as he sees him! That turns into some slight stalking which turns into a good thing when Cashmere turns out to have a more dangerous stalker after him! The way Specter takes over to protect him is unhinged and so sweet!
I loved the book and it was a great start to this series! I can't wait for the next one!
1st person POV Dual
MM
Plot 5/5
Spice 2/5
Hitman / burlesque dancer
Hurt / comfort
Found Family
Specter is instantly obsessed with Cashmere/ Colson as soon as he sees him! That turns into some slight stalking which turns into a good thing when Cashmere turns out to have a more dangerous stalker after him! The way Specter takes over to protect him is unhinged and so sweet!
I loved the book and it was a great start to this series! I can't wait for the next one!
May 21, 2026
Dancer meet hitman just nothing new. I could not get into this good, it was so dramatic at times. The focus felt more on the lust and sex and the idea and the feel of real love. It was obsession and there is a big difference. This bored me to be honest which was surprising since i normally enjoy the author but this was a miss for me. The chemistry was unrealic and i wanted more out of them. The story flow was ok, but felt like I had read this type of style a lot always a escort and dancer in a club. I do love the hitman feel but the story fell short from what i had hoped. If you want smut then go for it.
March 18, 2026
This was a great start to a new series. I loved the found family aspect and am looking forward to all the guys' stories. This is on the darker side, but it's mostly secondary stuff and not between the MCs. Specter and Cashmere's relationship is intense. Well, let's be honest, it's mostly Specter that's intense. But to have that focus on you....OMG. We got to watch Cashmere's walls come down, and I loved how patient Specter was, even with his obsession. Definitely a series I'm looking forward to continuing!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion
March 18, 2026
I’ve been a fan of Mia Monroe’s since the beginning and I’m very excited for her to dive back into contemporary romance. This book is full of morally gray characters and seems to be an exciting beginning to a new series. Specter is low key obsessed with Cashmere. And Cashmere is very cautious of him - rightfully so. But with a stalker lurking around, Cashmere asks Specter for help. The forced proximity only increases their chemistry and allows them to get to know each other. I’m looking forward to the rest of the murder buddies stories.
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