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The Crown's Obsession
In Rathmor, illegitimate daughters live behind veils, and Asharin Dyvarin has worn hers her entire life.
Rejected by the king without ever being seen and traded into marriage with his colder, resentful brother, she expects to remain invisible and unwanted.
Until the veil is lifted.
What the court discovers changes everything. Once Asharin is seen, she becomes impossible to ignore, and the obsession that follows grows more dangerous than the war raging beyond the palace walls.
A dark romantasy featuring enemies to lovers tension, a dangerous love triangle, possessive obsession, and passion that turns political marriage into something far more volatile.
This is an adult, high heat romantasy. Please visit the author’s website for content considerations.
Rejected by the king without ever being seen and traded into marriage with his colder, resentful brother, she expects to remain invisible and unwanted.
Until the veil is lifted.
What the court discovers changes everything. Once Asharin is seen, she becomes impossible to ignore, and the obsession that follows grows more dangerous than the war raging beyond the palace walls.
A dark romantasy featuring enemies to lovers tension, a dangerous love triangle, possessive obsession, and passion that turns political marriage into something far more volatile.
This is an adult, high heat romantasy. Please visit the author’s website for content considerations.
654 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2026
About the author
Oath Sterling
4 books78 followersHi! My name is Oath. I write dark romantasy featuring the men you shouldn’t want and plot twists that leave you staring at the wall long after the final page. Years spent working in a high-stakes profession have given me plenty of inspiration for the darker parts of my stories.
I’m neurodivergent, a proud boy mom, and an avid reader. I’m definitely happiest when daydreaming about pretend worlds, eating chocolate, or surrounding myself with something pink. Books have always been my favorite escape, and I hope mine can be that for someone else, too.
I’m neurodivergent, a proud boy mom, and an avid reader. I’m definitely happiest when daydreaming about pretend worlds, eating chocolate, or surrounding myself with something pink. Books have always been my favorite escape, and I hope mine can be that for someone else, too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 3, 2026
This has my favorite trope- Masked! Except it’s something entirely different because SHE’S VAILED. It’s the law! The prince has no idea who he’s marrying and the king, his brother just needs him to “do his duty.” That’s barely the beginning! It’s such a wild and spicy ride. Is it a love triangle? I think it’s a lust triangle, cause it’s definitely a touch what’s mine and die vibe. She’s caught between the King and Prince, which by the way is part beast! So add in some primal play!
It’s all the tropes that I enjoy and I really can’t wait for more. Why are you reading my review?! Go read the book!
It’s all the tropes that I enjoy and I really can’t wait for more. Why are you reading my review?! Go read the book!
March 27, 2026
I received The Crown’s Obsession by Oath Sterling as an ARC, and I’m so glad I did because this story completely pulled me in.
What really stood out to me is how unique the plot feels. It doesn’t fall into the same predictable patterns you see in a lot of fantasy romance—it keeps you guessing and genuinely invested in what’s going to happen next. The world and stakes feel fresh, and that made it hard to put down.
The FMC is an absolute standout. She’s strong, capable, and doesn’t bend easily, which makes her incredibly satisfying to follow. I loved that she holds her ground and doesn’t lose herself in the romance.
And speaking of romance—the MMC definitely has to *earn* her. It’s not instant or easy, and that slow, earned dynamic made their relationship feel so much more meaningful. Watching him work for her respect and trust added a lot of depth to the story.
Overall, this was a compelling, character-driven read with a refreshing take on familiar tropes. If you love strong heroines and romance that actually feels earned, this one is definitely worth picking up.
What really stood out to me is how unique the plot feels. It doesn’t fall into the same predictable patterns you see in a lot of fantasy romance—it keeps you guessing and genuinely invested in what’s going to happen next. The world and stakes feel fresh, and that made it hard to put down.
The FMC is an absolute standout. She’s strong, capable, and doesn’t bend easily, which makes her incredibly satisfying to follow. I loved that she holds her ground and doesn’t lose herself in the romance.
And speaking of romance—the MMC definitely has to *earn* her. It’s not instant or easy, and that slow, earned dynamic made their relationship feel so much more meaningful. Watching him work for her respect and trust added a lot of depth to the story.
Overall, this was a compelling, character-driven read with a refreshing take on familiar tropes. If you love strong heroines and romance that actually feels earned, this one is definitely worth picking up.
March 31, 2026
Unique, gripping, and overall great romantasy
Really enjoyed this book! It has the elements we all love in a romantasy (enemies to lovers, secret past, royalty, well-developed plot, believable great romance, morally grey characters). But it also has fresh elements and isn’t a copy/paste of the standard romantasy genre that gets a little stale. I loved the different creatures / races and the mystery behind what Asharin’s powers / ancestry. We know enough to kinda know what’s going on, but there’s still so much to be discovered and revealed in later books. I liked how the book was separated into parts with named chapters. Also gotta love a supportive, loving, fierce, all-consuming MMC. Can’t wait to read the next book! Hoping for some more chapters from alternate POVs in the next one.
Really enjoyed this book! It has the elements we all love in a romantasy (enemies to lovers, secret past, royalty, well-developed plot, believable great romance, morally grey characters). But it also has fresh elements and isn’t a copy/paste of the standard romantasy genre that gets a little stale. I loved the different creatures / races and the mystery behind what Asharin’s powers / ancestry. We know enough to kinda know what’s going on, but there’s still so much to be discovered and revealed in later books. I liked how the book was separated into parts with named chapters. Also gotta love a supportive, loving, fierce, all-consuming MMC. Can’t wait to read the next book! Hoping for some more chapters from alternate POVs in the next one.
March 27, 2026
This book was a very good read. I couldn't put it down. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll get angry lol and love every second of it. The story is unique and very refreshing. The author does a great job making you feel what the characters are feeling in the book. Asherin is a strong but caring FMC. Colsar and his broodiness, Sevrin and his wilds. The spice is there about 🌶🌶🌶. It ends on a cliff hanger and I cant wait to read the next book. If you like fantasy with reality and a great plot with a cliffhanger, this is for you. I highly recommend this book.
August 14, 2026
Wow!! This book had me in a chokehold and feeling all sorts of emotions at once. I enjoyed all the chaos. There’s a complex magic system and new magical creatures that I’m hoping will be further discussed and explained in book 2. The FMC, Asherin, has had a hard upbringing. No one in her family loves her and treat her worse than they treat the servants due to the way she was conceived. I do feel like there’s an inconsistency as she is beaten and not fed, yet she can out drink many.
There’s so much action especially in the beginning and in the end of the book. Asherin is forced into a marriage with the prince. But now the king and possibly another man want her for themselves. The ending ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2.
Tropes:
👑 Touch her and die
👑 Forced proximity/ forced marriage
👑 Unhinged MMC
👑 Love triangle/ maybe square? Lol
👑 Obsessive and dangerous
👑 Untapped power
👑 She is mine
There’s so much action especially in the beginning and in the end of the book. Asherin is forced into a marriage with the prince. But now the king and possibly another man want her for themselves. The ending ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2.
Tropes:
👑 Touch her and die
👑 Forced proximity/ forced marriage
👑 Unhinged MMC
👑 Love triangle/ maybe square? Lol
👑 Obsessive and dangerous
👑 Untapped power
👑 She is mine
April 6, 2026
Review of the Crown's Obsession (The Ashen Crown, #1) by Oath Sterling
I received this as an ARC, thank you for allowing me to read this story!
This book! This book is a SLOOOOWWWW BURN romatansy with an FMC who is hidden from the world because of how she was born. Forced to be "veiled" from the world, she is easily forgotten. Being veiled, she is able to "hide" from the world, see things not meant for her to see, hear things that she is not meant to hear.
Asharin, raised in the Baron's house she is mistreated, abused and forced to endure nothing but hate from her father, brother and sister. When the King and his brother the Prince show up at the Baron's house to discuss marriage for the Prince, the Baron offers Asharin to the prince to be rid of her. The king who is already trying to conceive and heir with someone else, agrees to the marriage between the Prince and Asharin. The King, however is extremely infatuated with the veiled daughter of the Baron. Once Asharin moves into the palace, she is forced to endure both brothers and their infatuation with Asharin.
Asharin and Colsar, get married and once the veil is removed, the king starts to understand what he willingly gave up to this brother. Colsar, begins to fight his feelings with Asharin, purposefully does things to demean Ash and their marriage. Eventually, Ash and Colsar start to have an understanding with each other, and begin to start to have a marriage (not only behind close doors, but also in public). Having been forced to be alone for so many years, they realize they can begin to relay on each other to heal and accept their future.
Sevrin (the King) is an immature child (TBH). Realizing what he gave up he starts to believe that Ash is his and his brother can no longer have her. He is completely consumed with Ash and what she means to him and his future. Knowing that the Baron's daughter can't give him what he demands most to hold onto the throne, he begins to groom Ash into the perfect servant for him.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and I can't wait for book 2, because when it ends you are like "WAIT, WHAT!"
🔥 A dark romantasy featuring enemies to lovers tension ⚔️
📐 A dangerous love triangle ⚠️
🖤 Possessive obsession ⛓️
🥀 Passion that turns political marriage into something far more volatile 💍
🌶️ High heat romantasy 🌶️
I received this as an ARC, thank you for allowing me to read this story!
This book! This book is a SLOOOOWWWW BURN romatansy with an FMC who is hidden from the world because of how she was born. Forced to be "veiled" from the world, she is easily forgotten. Being veiled, she is able to "hide" from the world, see things not meant for her to see, hear things that she is not meant to hear.
Asharin, raised in the Baron's house she is mistreated, abused and forced to endure nothing but hate from her father, brother and sister. When the King and his brother the Prince show up at the Baron's house to discuss marriage for the Prince, the Baron offers Asharin to the prince to be rid of her. The king who is already trying to conceive and heir with someone else, agrees to the marriage between the Prince and Asharin. The King, however is extremely infatuated with the veiled daughter of the Baron. Once Asharin moves into the palace, she is forced to endure both brothers and their infatuation with Asharin.
Asharin and Colsar, get married and once the veil is removed, the king starts to understand what he willingly gave up to this brother. Colsar, begins to fight his feelings with Asharin, purposefully does things to demean Ash and their marriage. Eventually, Ash and Colsar start to have an understanding with each other, and begin to start to have a marriage (not only behind close doors, but also in public). Having been forced to be alone for so many years, they realize they can begin to relay on each other to heal and accept their future.
Sevrin (the King) is an immature child (TBH). Realizing what he gave up he starts to believe that Ash is his and his brother can no longer have her. He is completely consumed with Ash and what she means to him and his future. Knowing that the Baron's daughter can't give him what he demands most to hold onto the throne, he begins to groom Ash into the perfect servant for him.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, and I can't wait for book 2, because when it ends you are like "WAIT, WHAT!"
🔥 A dark romantasy featuring enemies to lovers tension ⚔️
📐 A dangerous love triangle ⚠️
🖤 Possessive obsession ⛓️
🥀 Passion that turns political marriage into something far more volatile 💍
🌶️ High heat romantasy 🌶️
March 23, 2026
This book doesn’t just pull you into its world—it slips a blade between your ribs and whispers, watch closely.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the very first page, Veynar feels like a kingdom built on secrets and suffocation, and Asharin Dyvarin is its most dangerous secret of all. A heroine forced into silence by a literal veil, she begins as something almost ghostlike—overlooked, underestimated, dismissed. But the moment that veil lifts? Everything fractures. Power shifts. Eyes sharpen. And suddenly, the girl no one wanted becomes the one no one can ignore.
The tension in this book is exquisite. It coils tighter with every chapter, especially within the twisted dynamic between Asharin and Prince Colsar. What starts as cold hostility slowly mutates into something darker, more consuming—less romance, more gravitational pull with teeth. And just when you think you understand the emotional battlefield, the king enters the fray with an obsession that feels like a lit match near spilled oil.
The court itself is a masterpiece of unease. No one feels entirely human, and that’s part of the magic. Every interaction hums with danger, every glance feels like a calculated move in a deadly game. Add in the looming threat of the Threns—those soul-hungry horrors gathering beyond the walls—and the story expands from intimate psychological tension to something epic and ominous.
And the spice? Let’s just say it doesn’t soften the story—it sharpens it. The heat is tangled with power, control, and vulnerability in a way that makes every moment feel earned and a little bit dangerous.
What truly seals this as a five-star read is Asharin herself. Watching her transform from a hidden pawn into a force that could unravel an entire kingdom is deeply satisfying. She doesn’t just survive the court—she changes it.
Dark, obsessive, and dripping with intrigue, this book is a slow-burning wildfire wrapped in silk and shadows. If you love your romantasy with sharp edges, morally gray desires, and a heroine who refuses to stay hidden, this one will absolutely own you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the very first page, Veynar feels like a kingdom built on secrets and suffocation, and Asharin Dyvarin is its most dangerous secret of all. A heroine forced into silence by a literal veil, she begins as something almost ghostlike—overlooked, underestimated, dismissed. But the moment that veil lifts? Everything fractures. Power shifts. Eyes sharpen. And suddenly, the girl no one wanted becomes the one no one can ignore.
The tension in this book is exquisite. It coils tighter with every chapter, especially within the twisted dynamic between Asharin and Prince Colsar. What starts as cold hostility slowly mutates into something darker, more consuming—less romance, more gravitational pull with teeth. And just when you think you understand the emotional battlefield, the king enters the fray with an obsession that feels like a lit match near spilled oil.
The court itself is a masterpiece of unease. No one feels entirely human, and that’s part of the magic. Every interaction hums with danger, every glance feels like a calculated move in a deadly game. Add in the looming threat of the Threns—those soul-hungry horrors gathering beyond the walls—and the story expands from intimate psychological tension to something epic and ominous.
And the spice? Let’s just say it doesn’t soften the story—it sharpens it. The heat is tangled with power, control, and vulnerability in a way that makes every moment feel earned and a little bit dangerous.
What truly seals this as a five-star read is Asharin herself. Watching her transform from a hidden pawn into a force that could unravel an entire kingdom is deeply satisfying. She doesn’t just survive the court—she changes it.
Dark, obsessive, and dripping with intrigue, this book is a slow-burning wildfire wrapped in silk and shadows. If you love your romantasy with sharp edges, morally gray desires, and a heroine who refuses to stay hidden, this one will absolutely own you.
April 9, 2026
wonderful book!!
I loved this book! It kept my attention and was filled with twists and turns! Can’t wait for book 2!
I loved this book! It kept my attention and was filled with twists and turns! Can’t wait for book 2!
August 16, 2026
Man oh man… this book took me on a ride!
I started The Crown’s Obsession absolutely HATING Colsar. I really didn’t think there was any way this man was going to win me over, but somehow here I am at the end completely TEAM COLSAR. 😂
Asharin broke my heart. She has spent her life being abused, beaten, starved, hidden behind a veil, and treated like she was nothing. Watching her relationship with Colsar change and seeing them finally admit their feelings for each other had me completely invested.
Then Colsar had to leave and everything went straight to hell.
I cannot stand Sevrin! His obsession with Asharin went way beyond anything I could root for, especially after the way he treated her while Colsar was gone. And Yvara? She definitely needs someone to put her in her place.
There was so much packed into this one, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, a messy love triangle, touch her & die, “she is mine,” obsession, untapped power, spice, betrayal, and plenty of WTF moments.
There are still so many questions surrounding Asharin’s power and this world, and after that ending I definitely need to know what happens next.
Never thought I’d say it after the beginning, but…
TEAM COLSAR. 👑
On to The Crown’s Awakening!
I started The Crown’s Obsession absolutely HATING Colsar. I really didn’t think there was any way this man was going to win me over, but somehow here I am at the end completely TEAM COLSAR. 😂
Asharin broke my heart. She has spent her life being abused, beaten, starved, hidden behind a veil, and treated like she was nothing. Watching her relationship with Colsar change and seeing them finally admit their feelings for each other had me completely invested.
Then Colsar had to leave and everything went straight to hell.
I cannot stand Sevrin! His obsession with Asharin went way beyond anything I could root for, especially after the way he treated her while Colsar was gone. And Yvara? She definitely needs someone to put her in her place.
There was so much packed into this one, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, a messy love triangle, touch her & die, “she is mine,” obsession, untapped power, spice, betrayal, and plenty of WTF moments.
There are still so many questions surrounding Asharin’s power and this world, and after that ending I definitely need to know what happens next.
Never thought I’d say it after the beginning, but…
TEAM COLSAR. 👑
On to The Crown’s Awakening!
April 14, 2026
Long review on the complete madness in this book
This book had me in a chokehold for most of the beginning and then lost me somewhere in the Middle, all the way to the end. There is so much going on in the background between the races, they don't seem to be all that human, yet it's not exactly explained either. We hear about different lands and magic or power that even our mfc seems to wield, but this to is not really elaborated on. There is so much going on around these characters that's just unanswered and not described at all.
Our female main character is written in so many different ways I don't know who she really is. Is she this brave person? We share a scene with her practicing sword fighting, and that's the only scene we get on that matter although she herself claims that she likes practicing. She is always talking herself down about her powers, yet never really uses said power to help herself out of bad situation when I wanted to scream " girl" help yourself for once! And when she does use this said power, it's just confusing? Because nothing really happens and she just ends up hurting herself. Like what is it??? They say a name for it, yet don't really explain what it is or does. This book is so ridiculously vague on so much information it's infuriating.
Now don't get me started on how goofy our fmc becomes, because it's bad, this girl is like playing with fire with both these men. She is literally flirting with both, and yet the author wants us to believe she's always been for her husband? Are we all reading the same book. This girl is silly and confused. And these men dog walk her throughout this book. And then suddenly her husband, just decided to change. And become an entirely new person for her. And then this fmc decides she wants to be queen and strong. What?! Like no seriously, what is actually going on? So anyways, husband is sent away and this girl is trapped with his crazy weird freak of a brother and he's horrible to our girl. And she needs out of this place fast, because she is really not doing well. And her sister, who, has been cruel and abusive says I'm here to help? And fmc is like thank goodness? And excepts only to be tricked and hurt. Are you seriously kidding me, ma'am?! Are you ok?! Why would you think she's there to help. You are raving on and on about how cruel she is at every turn. Yet this one time you yourself is like yup. She's got my back? Come on!
But no, the ending, the ending had me about levitating with anger, because these ppl are trying to save you, your husbands brother, is literally gonna kill you with his actions and you say " he won't hurt me". You God damn dodo bird brain! I was so disgusted with you. And still, you are making every excuse in the book while you do not want to leave. Ma'am, are you seriously ok in the head!? Honestly I had hoped for a strong women who was ready to kick butts and take names. Idk who we got, be she sucked.
This book had me in a chokehold for most of the beginning and then lost me somewhere in the Middle, all the way to the end. There is so much going on in the background between the races, they don't seem to be all that human, yet it's not exactly explained either. We hear about different lands and magic or power that even our mfc seems to wield, but this to is not really elaborated on. There is so much going on around these characters that's just unanswered and not described at all.
Our female main character is written in so many different ways I don't know who she really is. Is she this brave person? We share a scene with her practicing sword fighting, and that's the only scene we get on that matter although she herself claims that she likes practicing. She is always talking herself down about her powers, yet never really uses said power to help herself out of bad situation when I wanted to scream " girl" help yourself for once! And when she does use this said power, it's just confusing? Because nothing really happens and she just ends up hurting herself. Like what is it??? They say a name for it, yet don't really explain what it is or does. This book is so ridiculously vague on so much information it's infuriating.
Now don't get me started on how goofy our fmc becomes, because it's bad, this girl is like playing with fire with both these men. She is literally flirting with both, and yet the author wants us to believe she's always been for her husband? Are we all reading the same book. This girl is silly and confused. And these men dog walk her throughout this book. And then suddenly her husband, just decided to change. And become an entirely new person for her. And then this fmc decides she wants to be queen and strong. What?! Like no seriously, what is actually going on? So anyways, husband is sent away and this girl is trapped with his crazy weird freak of a brother and he's horrible to our girl. And she needs out of this place fast, because she is really not doing well. And her sister, who, has been cruel and abusive says I'm here to help? And fmc is like thank goodness? And excepts only to be tricked and hurt. Are you seriously kidding me, ma'am?! Are you ok?! Why would you think she's there to help. You are raving on and on about how cruel she is at every turn. Yet this one time you yourself is like yup. She's got my back? Come on!
But no, the ending, the ending had me about levitating with anger, because these ppl are trying to save you, your husbands brother, is literally gonna kill you with his actions and you say " he won't hurt me". You God damn dodo bird brain! I was so disgusted with you. And still, you are making every excuse in the book while you do not want to leave. Ma'am, are you seriously ok in the head!? Honestly I had hoped for a strong women who was ready to kick butts and take names. Idk who we got, be she sucked.
July 6, 2026
Unhinged. Dark. Full-on obsession.
Ever read a book where you’re left thinking, "What in the f*ck is about to happen next?" That is exactly the vibe of this book.
I’ve read some reviews that point to a lack of character development, but honestly, that couldn't be farther from the truth.
The FMC is veiled and hidden away from the world. She experiences so much trauma, even from her own family for being the "bastard child." When she is presented to the king and his brother, the expectation is for her to be married to by the brother (Colsar)—but the dynamics run so much deeper than that.
Oath Sterlingsets you up to peel off the layers of this entire cast, only showing you slowly what she wants you to see. This first book deeply focuses on how the FMC begins to develop her relationships with the MMCs and her own role in the world after being unveiled and the world finally learning who she really is. The men show interest, yet they also dismiss her. Each causes a level of trauma, yet they also provide her with pieces of herself she didn't realize she needed. The story really shows how trauma can bring misfortune, but can also strengthen you to prove that your past does not shape who you are.
The MMCs each bring something completely different to the table. Colsar—ugh, I hated him and then I loved him. Sevrin is dark, broken, and just... ugh, there is this incredible level of depth to him in all that darkness. MMC 3? Read the book to find out more about him cause um 🫠
That being said, is this book dark and f'ed up at times? Hell yes. But is it a great time? Also yes.
Ever read a book where you’re left thinking, "What in the f*ck is about to happen next?" That is exactly the vibe of this book.
I’ve read some reviews that point to a lack of character development, but honestly, that couldn't be farther from the truth.
The FMC is veiled and hidden away from the world. She experiences so much trauma, even from her own family for being the "bastard child." When she is presented to the king and his brother, the expectation is for her to be married to by the brother (Colsar)—but the dynamics run so much deeper than that.
Oath Sterlingsets you up to peel off the layers of this entire cast, only showing you slowly what she wants you to see. This first book deeply focuses on how the FMC begins to develop her relationships with the MMCs and her own role in the world after being unveiled and the world finally learning who she really is. The men show interest, yet they also dismiss her. Each causes a level of trauma, yet they also provide her with pieces of herself she didn't realize she needed. The story really shows how trauma can bring misfortune, but can also strengthen you to prove that your past does not shape who you are.
The MMCs each bring something completely different to the table. Colsar—ugh, I hated him and then I loved him. Sevrin is dark, broken, and just... ugh, there is this incredible level of depth to him in all that darkness. MMC 3? Read the book to find out more about him cause um 🫠
That being said, is this book dark and f'ed up at times? Hell yes. But is it a great time? Also yes.
April 13, 2026
I had the privilege to ARC read this amazing book.
If you love a romantasy with forced marriage, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a court full of secrets, this one is definitely for you. The whole concept of Asharin being veiled her entire life and then suddenly revealed! Absolutely wild-and the fallout from that reveal kept me completely invested.
The court politics, the obsession, the love triangle... it's all so addictive. There's this constant feeling that something is about to go very wrong, and I loved that edge of danger throughout the story. Plus, the darker elements outside the court added even more depth and stakes.
If you're into possessive, morally gray characters, high tension romance, and a plot that keeps unraveling in the best way, this is one is for you. You don't want to miss out on this read!
If you love a romantasy with forced marriage, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a court full of secrets, this one is definitely for you. The whole concept of Asharin being veiled her entire life and then suddenly revealed! Absolutely wild-and the fallout from that reveal kept me completely invested.
The court politics, the obsession, the love triangle... it's all so addictive. There's this constant feeling that something is about to go very wrong, and I loved that edge of danger throughout the story. Plus, the darker elements outside the court added even more depth and stakes.
If you're into possessive, morally gray characters, high tension romance, and a plot that keeps unraveling in the best way, this is one is for you. You don't want to miss out on this read!
April 2, 2026
Savor this book b/c it is phenomenal
This book was recommended by someone in a FB romantasy group. I owe them an immense “Thank you!” This author has figured out the perfect recipe to creating characters with depth (you’ll love them, hate them, and love that you hate them) and a storyline that never falters or meanders into boredom.
I tried not to read this too quickly because I wanted it to last and I am still upset at myself for finishing it. Luckily there will be another book released continuing where this one left off in May. If you are on the fence about reading this or thinking of adding it to your TBR list, don’t. Don’t put it off, start reading it NOW. I promise you, you won’t regret it.
This book was recommended by someone in a FB romantasy group. I owe them an immense “Thank you!” This author has figured out the perfect recipe to creating characters with depth (you’ll love them, hate them, and love that you hate them) and a storyline that never falters or meanders into boredom.
I tried not to read this too quickly because I wanted it to last and I am still upset at myself for finishing it. Luckily there will be another book released continuing where this one left off in May. If you are on the fence about reading this or thinking of adding it to your TBR list, don’t. Don’t put it off, start reading it NOW. I promise you, you won’t regret it.
March 31, 2026
This was unhinged so naturally I’m OBSESSED. Not in a really dark romance kinda way, just in a ‘this is a bit toxic and twisted with some seriously questionable character traits’ kinda way.
The prince is a basically a wolf shifter who survives on having precise control. The king is essentially a vampire who has a VERY obsessive nature. Both need obedience.
The FMC is anything but obedient. She’s witty, strong and on a war path for revenge. Defiant at all times. Loves to gamble and dance and drink in taverns.
❤️ Love triangles
😂 Banter
🔥 SUCH GOOD SPICE
🧛♀️ Blood drinking
💀 Psychotic obsession
🥵 Genuine enemies to lovers
10/10 writing!!
The prince is a basically a wolf shifter who survives on having precise control. The king is essentially a vampire who has a VERY obsessive nature. Both need obedience.
The FMC is anything but obedient. She’s witty, strong and on a war path for revenge. Defiant at all times. Loves to gamble and dance and drink in taverns.
❤️ Love triangles
😂 Banter
🔥 SUCH GOOD SPICE
🧛♀️ Blood drinking
💀 Psychotic obsession
🥵 Genuine enemies to lovers
10/10 writing!!
March 27, 2026
This book…I can’t tell you the last time I read a book this good! I don’t even know where to begin…What just happened? What is happening? What is going to happen? That’s throughout the ENTIRE book! Impossible to put down, this book had such a hold on my mind that when I woke up in the middle of the night I immediately started thinking about it and had to pick it up to read more. Easy to give this author 5 stars, I’d give 6 if I could!
April 15, 2026
If you like dark romance with plot twists and morally gray characters (even FMC) then this is for you.
This was impossible to put down. The FMC was realistically imperfect with palpable growth by the end of the book. The MMCs are easy to love or hate, I still haven’t decided which. Loved the writing and can’t wait for book 2!
This was impossible to put down. The FMC was realistically imperfect with palpable growth by the end of the book. The MMCs are easy to love or hate, I still haven’t decided which. Loved the writing and can’t wait for book 2!
April 23, 2026
The start was a little slow but I was never bored, it was more like anticipation of how it will play out. I was not disappointed I really enjoyed reading this one and can't wait for the next one
May 5, 2026
This book is top tier. A must read for anyone that enjoys a good fantasy read!
August 29, 2026
Asharin has been treated wrong her whole life under the premise that she is veiled, a bastard of the Baron. When she is promised in a marriage to the Prince of Rathmor, Colsar, it is realized she is much more than she seems and actually has the lineage of royalty in her blood! I loved the transformation of Asha and Colsar’s relationship. The who hurt you trope was so strong! Sevrin, the king, falls into an obsession with Asha and I am curious to see what book 2 holds. Love the strength and resolve of the FMC and that this part of her story is only the beginning!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2026
The Crown’s Obsession
By Oath Sterling
This book was crazy good! I was hooked from the very beginning. I loved the writing and the pace was perfect! Never a dull moment.
The Crown’s Obsession was filled with chaos, torture, witty banter, survival, magical creatures and more in a world of kings & princes all wanting one woman to be their queen.
I also enjoyed all the characters. Every single one played their role perfectly. At the beginning I was rooting for one character then by the middle, I’d switched to another and in the end, I wanted the guy who I hated the most to have his HEA!
This is the 1st book in the Ashen Crown Series so I am looking forward to watching this world building and magic system emerge throughout the whole series. The spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️! Make sure to check your triggers before reading!
I’m looking forward to starting the next book in the series! The Crown’s Awakening!
By Oath Sterling
This book was crazy good! I was hooked from the very beginning. I loved the writing and the pace was perfect! Never a dull moment.
The Crown’s Obsession was filled with chaos, torture, witty banter, survival, magical creatures and more in a world of kings & princes all wanting one woman to be their queen.
I also enjoyed all the characters. Every single one played their role perfectly. At the beginning I was rooting for one character then by the middle, I’d switched to another and in the end, I wanted the guy who I hated the most to have his HEA!
This is the 1st book in the Ashen Crown Series so I am looking forward to watching this world building and magic system emerge throughout the whole series. The spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️! Make sure to check your triggers before reading!
I’m looking forward to starting the next book in the series! The Crown’s Awakening!
April 10, 2026
What an absolute mess?! no character development whatsoever.. plot doesn't add up/make sense.
FMC is a martyr one minute, then loved by everyone the next, one minute she has power, next minute she doesn't..also a master of all trades she drinks, gambles, carves, cooks, hunts, survives all the near attempts of killing.
She starts starving when she doesn't have a dinner (but she had lunch); yet when the "bad king" is starving her for real, she feels excited sometimes and "protected" by him.
she is naive like a child, when the sister who near killed her "sets her free"..it's obvs a trap.
I genuinely haven't read something quite so inconsistent..
Don't get me started on MMC or other characters.
I kept reading as I kept thinking surely it must get better, the plot setup could have been cool..
FMC is a martyr one minute, then loved by everyone the next, one minute she has power, next minute she doesn't..also a master of all trades she drinks, gambles, carves, cooks, hunts, survives all the near attempts of killing.
She starts starving when she doesn't have a dinner (but she had lunch); yet when the "bad king" is starving her for real, she feels excited sometimes and "protected" by him.
she is naive like a child, when the sister who near killed her "sets her free"..it's obvs a trap.
I genuinely haven't read something quite so inconsistent..
Don't get me started on MMC or other characters.
I kept reading as I kept thinking surely it must get better, the plot setup could have been cool..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2026
I'm not sure who is writing these reviews but this book is a mess. I had to reread things because I couldn't even follow what was supposed to be happening. There are no explanations or good character development. I felt like it was trying to throw all these random plot tropes around because that's what romantasy is about. I would not recommend this at all.
September 15, 2026
Wow...
If you liked Souls in Ruin then you will devour Thr Crown's Obsession. This has mee in all my feelings; Asharin is treated like a straight dog by her family veiled and hidden away; then bargained off to the king's brother. But that’s only the beginning of her story, she is an FMC that struggles to find herself, in a court that she doesn't know, a husband that doesnt want her and a hidden secret that changes everything. You will see her come into her own and the hell I can see her reigning down is going to be so good. 10/10 highly recommend.
If you liked Souls in Ruin then you will devour Thr Crown's Obsession. This has mee in all my feelings; Asharin is treated like a straight dog by her family veiled and hidden away; then bargained off to the king's brother. But that’s only the beginning of her story, she is an FMC that struggles to find herself, in a court that she doesn't know, a husband that doesnt want her and a hidden secret that changes everything. You will see her come into her own and the hell I can see her reigning down is going to be so good. 10/10 highly recommend.
April 13, 2026
I made it to 67% before finally calling it, and honestly, I feel like that was a generous effort.
This book started with enough intrigue across multiple plot lines to keep me going far longer than I should have, but somewhere along the way it tipped from dark and dramatic into completely unhinged. The villains are so exaggerated they become almost comical — the baron, Yvarra, the son — none of them feel grounded or believable. The king is outright insane, and the prince’s behaviour seems engineered purely for maximum shock value rather than any coherent character development.
The inconsistencies were what really broke it for me. The main character is supposedly a skilled swordswoman, yet we barely see her earn that ability. Her magic is revered by some and inexplicably ignored by others. She’s described as exceptional with horses… but never actually interacts with them in any meaningful way. She conveniently runs into danger at every turn, to the point where it feels forced rather than organic.
And then there’s the tonal whiplash. By around 60%, both the FMC and MMC have crossed into morally bankrupt territory, and not in a compelling antihero way — more in a “what am I even rooting for anymore?” sense. The scenes clearly aim to shock, but instead they come across as excessive and disconnected from the story’s internal logic.
What kept me reading as long as I did was the promise of answers — who saved her, what she actually is, where her mysterious family is — but even pushing this far, it’s clear those answers aren’t coming in any satisfying way within this book.
Ultimately, this felt like a story that prioritises drama, violence, and shock over consistency, character development, or coherent worldbuilding. If you enjoy chaotic, high-intensity storytelling and don’t mind loose logic, you might have a better time than I did.
This book started with enough intrigue across multiple plot lines to keep me going far longer than I should have, but somewhere along the way it tipped from dark and dramatic into completely unhinged. The villains are so exaggerated they become almost comical — the baron, Yvarra, the son — none of them feel grounded or believable. The king is outright insane, and the prince’s behaviour seems engineered purely for maximum shock value rather than any coherent character development.
The inconsistencies were what really broke it for me. The main character is supposedly a skilled swordswoman, yet we barely see her earn that ability. Her magic is revered by some and inexplicably ignored by others. She’s described as exceptional with horses… but never actually interacts with them in any meaningful way. She conveniently runs into danger at every turn, to the point where it feels forced rather than organic.
And then there’s the tonal whiplash. By around 60%, both the FMC and MMC have crossed into morally bankrupt territory, and not in a compelling antihero way — more in a “what am I even rooting for anymore?” sense. The scenes clearly aim to shock, but instead they come across as excessive and disconnected from the story’s internal logic.
What kept me reading as long as I did was the promise of answers — who saved her, what she actually is, where her mysterious family is — but even pushing this far, it’s clear those answers aren’t coming in any satisfying way within this book.
Ultimately, this felt like a story that prioritises drama, violence, and shock over consistency, character development, or coherent worldbuilding. If you enjoy chaotic, high-intensity storytelling and don’t mind loose logic, you might have a better time than I did.
October 8, 2026
Oath, I don’t know what you’re putting in your books, but I’m 100% convinced it’s some sort of spell. I am completely bewitched by your storytelling.
Thank the good Lord book two is already out, because my poor heart would have spiraled into utter despair if I’d been forced to wait.
A
MUST
ADD
TO
YOUR
TBR.
That’s it. That’s my review. I’d love to give you something more thoughtful, but I have absolutely no patience and a second book waiting for me. The moment I hit post, I’m diving straight back in. 🫣📖
Thank the good Lord book two is already out, because my poor heart would have spiraled into utter despair if I’d been forced to wait.
A
MUST
ADD
TO
YOUR
TBR.
That’s it. That’s my review. I’d love to give you something more thoughtful, but I have absolutely no patience and a second book waiting for me. The moment I hit post, I’m diving straight back in. 🫣📖
September 4, 2026
Thank you Oath Sterling for the opportunity to read this masterpiece of dark romantasy.
The characters and the world is vivid, unhinged....might I add delightfully unhinged?! This had me feeling so many emotions, some at the same time, and quickly turning the pages.
Asharin had the most cruel and unbearable life as a child up into her adulthood by those that should have loved and cared for her. Most would have crumbled but not Asharin. She was my favorite on so many levels. Then we meet Sevrin and Colsar, brothers, one a King and the other the head of his armies, her betrothed, and so much more. Both are quite full of themselves and cruel in each of their own way. I rather loathed them right off then by the end of this installment I became obsessed with Colsar and Asharin. I actually became Team Colsar and LOVED every minute of it.
If you love a good tale of heartbreak, trauma, resiliency, royal courts, magic, villains (yes, you heard that right), and true love to defy all others in the least expected places with mystical creatures and betrayal....you have found your new obsession. This was one ride I did not want to get off of and left me wanting more.
The characters and the world is vivid, unhinged....might I add delightfully unhinged?! This had me feeling so many emotions, some at the same time, and quickly turning the pages.
Asharin had the most cruel and unbearable life as a child up into her adulthood by those that should have loved and cared for her. Most would have crumbled but not Asharin. She was my favorite on so many levels. Then we meet Sevrin and Colsar, brothers, one a King and the other the head of his armies, her betrothed, and so much more. Both are quite full of themselves and cruel in each of their own way. I rather loathed them right off then by the end of this installment I became obsessed with Colsar and Asharin. I actually became Team Colsar and LOVED every minute of it.
If you love a good tale of heartbreak, trauma, resiliency, royal courts, magic, villains (yes, you heard that right), and true love to defy all others in the least expected places with mystical creatures and betrayal....you have found your new obsession. This was one ride I did not want to get off of and left me wanting more.
September 30, 2026
Terrible
Was this written by AI? This story line swings wildly in different direction each page, leaps over key information and I had to DNF.
Was this written by AI? This story line swings wildly in different direction each page, leaps over key information and I had to DNF.
September 17, 2026
Obsessed is an understatement! 🥵 Oath Sterling absolutely delivered with The Crown’s Obsession. This is a really strong start to The Ashen Crown series. The world-building is dark and immersive, and I loved the unique concept of Asharin living behind the veil. If you love the "touch her and die" trope, forced marriage, and a massive side of court drama, please go read this immediately. The chemistry between Asharin and Colsar is pure fire, and the open-door steam is 10/10. The first half has a lot of political setup, but the payoff in the last 30% is so worth it. That ending completely hooked me. Can’t wait for book two!
October 5, 2026
I started this book, stopped, went to a few others, came back, and am glad I did. I nearly DNF because the first couple chapters were over the top, however, after reading it, it actually set the scene and explained the FMCs personality and why she makes certain choices.
This book has a decent plot, some good politics and some magic and shifting. This book also has a ton of spice. Usually for me, I DNF books with too much but this spice somewhat works for the storyline and the personalities of both the fmc and MMC (The speaking whilst in those scenes especially helps understand both main characters). I do enjoy the obsession the King has, it's done extremely well, in the dark, horrible, traumatic way, not just a lingering aspect of the plot, but a heavy part of it.
I did only rate 4 stars because, every male seems obsessed with the fmc, and I find it irritating. She also made some silly choices, but not maddening so it slides. The sister and brother seemed unrealistic in their hate, and their ability to express said hate even tho she is well above their stations. In most cases, that would not be accepted nor allowed.
I hope this doesn't turn into a love triangle. But this book heavily tips towards that, and I'll bail out of it if so, that isn't what I like to read. And, I actually like the mmc.
On the mmc, he comes across cold and unfeeling, however we get glimpses as to how he was treated (because shifter), growing up, and he has in turn, had to gain control of his life the only way he knows how; do not feel, do not get attached. He slowly opens up about that, and about what he feels, and it's so good to see. Had me kicking my feet.
I'm off to read book 2, fingers crossed no love triangle!
As an aside; Pregnancy trope, she does become pregnant. That isn't a trope some readers enjoy, so fair warning.
This book has a decent plot, some good politics and some magic and shifting. This book also has a ton of spice. Usually for me, I DNF books with too much but this spice somewhat works for the storyline and the personalities of both the fmc and MMC (The speaking whilst in those scenes especially helps understand both main characters). I do enjoy the obsession the King has, it's done extremely well, in the dark, horrible, traumatic way, not just a lingering aspect of the plot, but a heavy part of it.
I did only rate 4 stars because, every male seems obsessed with the fmc, and I find it irritating. She also made some silly choices, but not maddening so it slides. The sister and brother seemed unrealistic in their hate, and their ability to express said hate even tho she is well above their stations. In most cases, that would not be accepted nor allowed.
I hope this doesn't turn into a love triangle. But this book heavily tips towards that, and I'll bail out of it if so, that isn't what I like to read. And, I actually like the mmc.
On the mmc, he comes across cold and unfeeling, however we get glimpses as to how he was treated (because shifter), growing up, and he has in turn, had to gain control of his life the only way he knows how; do not feel, do not get attached. He slowly opens up about that, and about what he feels, and it's so good to see. Had me kicking my feet.
I'm off to read book 2, fingers crossed no love triangle!
As an aside; Pregnancy trope, she does become pregnant. That isn't a trope some readers enjoy, so fair warning.
May 20, 2026
"𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔. 𝑹𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕."
A friend asked me one day if I happened to read 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧'𝐬 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 by Oath Sterling. When I said "no, not yet because I'm buried in ARCs," she told me I HAD to. Safe to say I did, and I LOVED it.
This was a wild ride of a read. There are so many layers to this book that you will be sucked in to see how it unfolds. Asharin has been through hell and that still won’t break her. There are moments where I ask “What are you doing?! Don’t succumb!” But you have to keep reading.
The main focal point is Asharin, of course, but the complexities and depth to each character is unmatched. There is this push and pull that is undeniable between all of the characters. You want to know how each story unfolds, and some of the characters you will hate but that’s the great writing at play.
This made me ugly cry, so read the triggers if you have not healed yet. This made me relive some moments of my life, and appreciate how far I have come and healed. I experienced all the feels: pleasant, jarring, and downright heartbreaking. 10/10 recommend.
Gives Cinderella, This Woven Kingdom and The Bridge Kingdom and SO much more! Available to read now on Amazon and KU.
𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴:
5/5 ⭐️ - Recommended Reading
4/5 🌶 - Spice
4.5/5 ⭐️ - Characters
5/5 ⭐️ - Plot
𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗕𝗥 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲:
💫 Forced Marriage
💫 Morally Grey MMCs
💫 Obsessive and Dangerous
💫 Found Family
💫 Broody MMC
💫 "She is mine"
💫 Touch Her and D!e
💫 Hidden Identity
💫 Secrets
💫 Untapped Power
💫 Slow Burn
💫 He Falls First
💫 Love Triangle
💫 Cliffhanger
A friend asked me one day if I happened to read 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧'𝐬 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 by Oath Sterling. When I said "no, not yet because I'm buried in ARCs," she told me I HAD to. Safe to say I did, and I LOVED it.
This was a wild ride of a read. There are so many layers to this book that you will be sucked in to see how it unfolds. Asharin has been through hell and that still won’t break her. There are moments where I ask “What are you doing?! Don’t succumb!” But you have to keep reading.
The main focal point is Asharin, of course, but the complexities and depth to each character is unmatched. There is this push and pull that is undeniable between all of the characters. You want to know how each story unfolds, and some of the characters you will hate but that’s the great writing at play.
This made me ugly cry, so read the triggers if you have not healed yet. This made me relive some moments of my life, and appreciate how far I have come and healed. I experienced all the feels: pleasant, jarring, and downright heartbreaking. 10/10 recommend.
Gives Cinderella, This Woven Kingdom and The Bridge Kingdom and SO much more! Available to read now on Amazon and KU.
𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴:
5/5 ⭐️ - Recommended Reading
4/5 🌶 - Spice
4.5/5 ⭐️ - Characters
5/5 ⭐️ - Plot
𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗕𝗥 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲:
💫 Forced Marriage
💫 Morally Grey MMCs
💫 Obsessive and Dangerous
💫 Found Family
💫 Broody MMC
💫 "She is mine"
💫 Touch Her and D!e
💫 Hidden Identity
💫 Secrets
💫 Untapped Power
💫 Slow Burn
💫 He Falls First
💫 Love Triangle
💫 Cliffhanger
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews