When I initially started this book, I didn't think I was going to finish it. Honestly.. The pacing in this story was moving way too fast for me. Like, we literally went from him surveillancing you, stalking you, watching you.. coming to rescue/kidnapping you.. to being chained up in his house.. to you being in love with him within a matter of pages.. as impatient as I am, that's wild ..Secondly, some of the things that were happening just seemed wrong, even for someone as unhinged as I am.
But I kept reading everyone who has read this book said that they loved it, so I had to believe that I would do if I just stuck with it, and by the time I got to chapter 16, baby, I was kicking my heels and giggling like a school girl cuz nobody loves a thirsty bitch!! ...Sorry, I got a bit carried away there..
This is where I was fully invested in this story. Vincent is the typical guy that you ignored in school years later, you find out, he's infatuated with you. He is unhinged, obsessive, possessive, touch her and die.. all the red flags we love to ignore.
Jules is a freak, though and through.. with some secrets of her own.. who never got to let her freak wings fly until Vincent set them free. They were definitely made for each other. Cuz honey some of the unhinged behavior she deemed okay, I certainly could never..but, that's why she's in a book, and I'm not lol.
The smut in this book is in abundance, like there's A LOT of it and it's hot as hell....
So if you like your men obsessive and overly unhinged.. and you can look past the insta love, don't skip this one.
Thank you, Angel Dee and book sirens, for allowing me to read this arc
Quite entertaining to say the least. I’m so happy to have met Angel Dee through social media and even more happier for reading her book: the first book of The Crows are Watching series.
The book is about two characters, Vincent, the Ceo of the largest weapons conglomerate in the states, and Jules, a waitress living with her bullshit, dumbass, sexist and loser boyfriend.
These two have known each other since high school, when Vincent was a nerd who had a major crush on the very nice and beautiful Jules whom was pleasant with everyone. For being almost the only person nice to her, he decided to stalk her as years go by. He now is rich as hell, good looking and well built with torso tattoos and still stalking Jules. Jules on the other hand is in an abusive relationship with Brock until one day he smacks her unconscious and walks away. Vincent decides to “kidnap” (saving her life technically speaking) and brings her to his massive mansion surrounded by so many staff and an army of guards. He does secret ops/missions rescuing victims in the human trafficking trades but still dealing with business in the weapons and high technology gadgets industry. He takes care of Jules but has so many kinks he wants to share with her (knowing what she has been google searching for curiosity in the past).
This book does have a menu of trigger warnings because there are a few unhinged kinks and other dangerous things that happens with kidnapped victims in the trafficking world. It’s a short book with about 200 pages, fast paced which I LOVED (thank you so much for this), and action packed.
If you want a stalker, obsessed with the FMC, powerful and good looking, that is a golden retriever deep down with obscene taste in fuckery then this book is for you.
I received an ARC of this book, pre-release, in agreement to leave an honest review! Thank you SO much, Angel Dee, for this opportunity. -- this was a 4.25 star for me!
Let me start off by saying, make sure you read the trigger warning list on this! - Angel isn't lying when she says she starts off the book really dark in the first two chapters, LOL! "Get hooked by the spice, and stay for the plot" was 100% accurate. The story of Vincent and Jules, is a very dark one-- She must escape an abusive/shitty ex boyfriend, and doesn't realize she's being stalked by a guy she's known for a long time. He 'kidnaps' her (for the good of herself.. really!) and treats her like a literal queen, 'touch her & die' energy, BIG TIME. She eventually gives in to the situation, and realizes he's not so bad.. learns some things about him and her needs. Things take a turn, when the abusive ex is involved in some shady shit involved in trafficking.. I'll avoid explaining a lot as that's one of the biggest twists of the book! The writing style, is so good! and there are so many funny comments in it, no matter where the story is, you can't help but giggle; then you're left sitting there, "damn.. this is supposed to be dark, and I'm laughing at the murder that just happened" LOL. I definitely plan to read book 2 once she writes & releases! Book 1 didn't end on a cliffhanger, but it leaves you wondering about another side in the story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
From the very beginning, the story throws you into chaos. That opening sets the tone immediately. This story is built on trauma, survival, and emotional instability. There’s no slow descent into darkness… you’re just dropped straight into it.😭✋
🖤 Characters 🖤
‘Jules’ feels incredibly real. I relate with her . Her internal struggles, the way she tries to fit into what others expect of her, and the quiet shift toward choosing herself all feel very natural. Her growth isn’t loud or dramatic, it’s something you feel gradually, and that makes it hit even harder.
‘Vincent’ is intense 😭
He’s not written to be “fixed” or softened, and that’s what makes him compelling. The story embraces who he is instead of trying to justify everything, and that makes his character stand out. He’s layered, controlled but chaotic at the same time, and impossible to ignore.
Their dynamic is what really makes this book. It’s not simple, it’s not balanced in a traditional way, but it works for them.
Side characters add so much to the story, especially Aaron 👀 There’s something about him that stands out. His relationship with Vincent adds depth, but it also feels like there’s more coming. You can just tell his story isn’t over yet, and I’m already invested in whatever direction that goes.
🖤Pacing & Writing + Favorite Chapter 🖤
This book moves FAST.
The emotional intensity is there from the start and doesn’t really slow down.
Normally, this kind of pacing can feel rushed, but here it adds to the experience. The story feels overwhelming in a way that matches the characters and their emotions. It pulls you in quickly and keeps you there.
And yes… Chapter 16 🥵🔥
Brace yourself that scene just hits different. It stands out in a way that makes it unforgettable. I was fully kicking my feet 😭
🖤Final Thoughts 🖤
This is one of those books where you might start off unsure… and then suddenly you’re completely invested 😭
It’s intense, messy, and not for everyone, but if you enjoy dark romance with strong character dynamics and emotional depth, it’s definitely worth reading.
⭐ Rating: 4.9 / 5
Addictive, unhinged, and impossible to put down 🖤
Will be adding spoiler thoughts once the book is out
You had me from the beginning of this book you are the first dark romance books and I think I would definitely love the second book as well im hooked thank you
I am officially reeling from the intensity of this one! I gave Masked Stalker a 4.5-star rating with a 5-spice level. It is a dark, possessive romance that blurs the lines between a nightmare and a dream, featuring a hero who is as protective as he is terrifying.
The Story & The Vibe Jules is trying to move on from a toxic past, unaware that she is the sole focus of Vincent, the CEO of the largest weapons conglomerate in the States. Vincent isn’t just a billionaire; he’s a man who has spent years watching Jules through cameras, orchestrated from the shadows to ensure she eventually lands in his lap. When he finally "rescues" her from an abusive situation, the true games begin. What follows is a high-stakes "fake dating" arrangement where the lines of consent, control, and carnal desire become incredibly blurred.
Why it Works: • The "Stalker" Dynamic: Vincent is the definition of unhinged. From hacking police records to using high-definition drone "crows" to keep an eye on her, his level of preparation is staggering. The "Ghostface" chase through the forest was a standout moment that leaned perfectly into the dark slasher aesthetic Jules secretly craved. • The "Bratty" FMC: Jules is a fantastic foil for Vincent. She isn't afraid to fight back—shattering a lamp across his temple is quite the way to say hello! Her internal struggle between her high school crush on "Vince" and the reality of his dangerous world makes her evolution feel earned. • The "Grey" Hero: While Vincent’s methods are extreme, his background reveals a deep-seated hatred for traffickers and abusers. Watching him balance being a ruthless weapons dealer with his fierce protection of Jules (and Roxy) adds a lot of colour to his character. • The Dark Humour: Despite the "somno" and stalking themes, the banter is top-tier. Jules’s quick wit about safe words and "banana" breakfast orders kept the mood from getting too suffocating.
The 4.5-Star Rating: This was a wild, addictive ride. It’s definitely for readers who enjoy the "he’ll burn the world for her" trope taken to its absolute limit. The chemistry is explosive, and the way Vincent handles Jules’s "most depraved dreams" is handled with a dark, calculated precision. The ending provides a massive shift in their "contract" that ensures things are going to get even more chaotic for this couple.
The Standout Quotes:
"She will soon know that she’s mine, mine to hold, mine to love, and mine to punish. My knuckles whiten in anticipation along the hilt of my knife."
"I rescued you from a piece of shit mooch of an abusive boyfriend. While you were left unconscious in an unlocked house."
In Vincent’s world, love isn't just a feeling; it’s a tactical takeover. A 4.5-star dark romance that proves sometimes being trapped is exactly where you wanted to be all along.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Masked Stalker is a dark romance that delivers exactly what readers of the genre look for: compelling characters, emotional depth, suspense, and an obsession-fueled romance that keeps you turning pages. Having had the opportunity to read this as an ARC, I can confidently say it was a thoroughly engaging read from beginning to end.
One of the strongest aspects of this novel is its characters. Vincent is the kind of morally complex character that dark romance readers will appreciate. While his actions are undeniably obsessive, Angel Dee does an excellent job of providing a backstory that helps readers understand how he became the man he is today. Rather than feeling one-dimensional, Vincent is layered, flawed, and surprisingly compelling.
Jessica was equally enjoyable to read. At first glance, she appears to be the typical former cheerleader, but the story quickly reveals there is much more beneath the surface. I particularly appreciated that she wasn’t written as the stereotypical “mean girl.” Instead, she remains kind-hearted while carrying her own struggles and secrets, making her a well-rounded and relatable heroine.
The dynamic between Vincent and Jessica drives the story forward beautifully. Their interactions are filled with tension, emotion, and the kind of intensity that fans of dark romance will undoubtedly enjoy. As the story unfolds, both characters reveal unexpected depths that make their journey even more captivating.
Beyond the main couple, I found myself becoming invested in the supporting cast as well. Knowing that future books will focus on some of these characters has me genuinely excited. Angel Dee has created a world that feels rich enough to explore further, and I am eager to see where future installments take readers.
The pacing kept me engaged throughout, and the story balanced its darker themes with strong character development and emotional moments. The ending was especially satisfying. Without giving away spoilers, it wrapped up in a way that genuinely made me chuckle, which was a pleasant surprise after the intensity of the story.
It is important to note that this is a dark romance, and readers should absolutely pay attention to the trigger warnings before diving in. The themes explored may not be for everyone. However, for readers who enjoy the genre and are comfortable with the content, Masked Stalker is a phenomenal read.
Overall, Masked Stalker is a gripping dark romance with memorable characters, an engaging storyline, and enough depth to leave a lasting impression. It earned a solid five stars from me, and I look forward to returning to this world in future bo
Some books crawl under your skin a little and stay there.
Masked Stalker absolutely consumed me. 🖤
Angel Dee created a story that feels dark, seductive, dangerous, emotional, and completely addictive from the very first page. The kind of book where the atmosphere wraps around you immediately and refuses to let go. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and suddenly it was hours later and I had devoured the entire thing in one sitting.
Vincent was everything I want in a morally grey dark romance lead: intense, possessive, controlled, protective, terrifying when he needs to be… yet still carrying this deeply emotional core beneath all the power and darkness. I loved that the story never tried to make him overly soft or easily redeemable. He feels dangerous in a way that makes every scene with him impossible to look away from.
And Jules balanced him beautifully. She felt real to me. Vulnerable without feeling weak. Emotional without losing herself completely. Watching her slowly navigate Vincent’s world, her own trauma, and the undeniable pull between them made their connection feel layered, messy, consuming, and human.
The chemistry between them? Absolutely feral. 🥵🔥
Every interaction carried tension. Every touch felt loaded with meaning. Angel Dee did such a good job building emotional and physical intensity in a way that kept me fully invested the entire time.
But what really surprised me was how much I loved the suspense elements too. The danger surrounding Vincent’s company, the trafficking investigation, the secrets lurking beneath everything… it gave the story real weight beyond the romance and spice. There’s this constant feeling of unease lingering beneath the surface that keeps the pages turning.
And honestly? The side characters deserve attention too because Aaron absolutely has my interest and I already need more from this world immediately.
This book feels cinematic in the best way. Dark rooms. Tailored suits. Violence lingering quietly beneath expensive control. Obsession disguised as protection. Emotional damage wrapped in tension and chemistry. Exactly the kind of dark romance atmosphere I love getting lost in.
If you love obsessive protectors, morally grey antiheroes, emotional intensity, dark suspense, and romance that feels dangerous in all the best ways, definitely pick this one up.
Easy 5 stars for me. 🖤
Thank you Angel Dee for the ARC copy and for creating a story that completely pulled me into its darkness.
The crows are watching, and I will definitely be continuing this series!
Reading Masked Stalker (Book 1 in The Crows Are Watching series) by Angel Dee was a big surprise! I have never heard of this author before, but I will definitely be continuing this series and looking for her other books immediately!! The beginning of the story drops you right into the darkness, so if you have triggers make sure you check out the warnings. Personally I don't think this is dark, but I can see how some will. My attention was caught first thing and it wasn't from the story yet. It was before in the author's note, which gave me an immediate feeling of unity and understanding. The author shared her reason for writing dark romance. So many people don't understand why we read it and like she said, for her, it gives her some of the power back that was once stolen. This is soo relatable so right from the start this book touched my emotions but it didn't end there. The dedication completely hit me in my emotions. It shows that no matter how alone in our trauma we feel... we aren't. We can heal, take our power back, and fight. Through all of its darkness, this book shows healing as well. That is always my favorite type of book. The pace of this book is fast and most of the time that leads to it feeling lacking and rushed. I normally want a book to deep dive into every single thing, so I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the pacing. It covered enough background history, character and lifestyle development, and current details that I didn't immediately feel a disconnect like I normally would. And that plot twist.... I did NOT see it coming!!
The only reason I’m giving this a 4.5/4 star rating instead of a full 5 is simply because I wanted more. I would have loved more insight into their separate lives before they met, and definitely MORE of them after. I know we are getting a book two, but since that follows different characters, I kind of wish we could have seen more of Vince and Jules's actual relationship here how life plays out for them and how they manage day to day living. I just wasn't ready to leave them yet!
I absolutely loved the characters. Vince is the perfect blend of dangerous, unhinged, and super touch her and d!e type protective(my favorite), but his type of obsessed is rooted in pure devotion. His type of unhinged was never meant to be corrected he is who he is, and there's no changing it. On top ofof that, he is so sooo intelligent.The way the relationship is with side characters really helps enhance the characters of Vince and Jules. Aaron adds some mystery and I can't wait for his book. This has the perfect blend of spice, suspense, action, and love. There is a top tier romance but the dangerous suspense story running alongside it is just as interesting or more and kept me completely hooked until the very last page. Like Angel Dee says "Masked Stalker is very much a come for the spice but stay for the plot type of book" and she is not wrong! The crows are watching ♡n
The book Masked Stalker by Angel Dee surprised me a lot. In a good way. And probably the first book of this type that I've read. I mean, all of my favorites together in one beautiful package. (The cover is amazing).
First thing: Oh, very spicy, literally explosive and exciting and ugh, I want to meet Vincent like that 🫠 with a mask, or without, here with him. And oh my, guys with their sweatpants and under them ....🤭
Vincent - I loved all his sides. From the weird stalker, to the director of a million-dollar company and a killer (who likes to rip other people’s nails out in one go), to a loving guy with lots of adorable perversions 🥵
Jules - Unique in negotiating with Vince. A headstrong and funny girl who immediately grew to my heart from the first pages. I was surprised by what I gradually learned about her. But you have to read that yourself, of course.
Aron - I hope I get to see his story, I'd be really interested.
Brock - may he fry in hell, with a knife stuck in his ass, or rather in the front part... Thanks for "disarming" him Jules, it was...instructive. He got what he deserved.
Oh, and I'd love to employ Charles, at least part-time, for now... and will someone lend me one of those crows? 😂
To sum up, a very well-written book. Too bad it was so fast-paced. I would have given all the tension and relationship building more space. The characters were believable and lively, each with their own original personality. The plot was surprisingly good, exciting (I was as tense as a brace during the last mission) and the main villain has not been revealed yet.
So, what's next?
And I can't forget to thank BookSirens and the author for providing an advance copy of the book. As a thank you, I am leaving this review.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Vincent doesn’t just leave his past behind he buries it, pours concrete over it, and builds an empire on top. As the alpha billionaire CEO of a weapons conglomerate, he’s all sharp suits, sharper instincts, and the kind of power that makes people stop asking questions. Naturally, that power comes with secrets and a darkness that lingers just beneath the surface.
Enter Jules, who’s stuck in a relationship that’s gone from bad to dangerous. When her boyfriend crosses a line, Vincent steps in like a morally grey knight in designer armour, sweeping her away to his remote compound under the very convincing banner of “protection.” Of course, Vincent doesn’t just protect what’s his, he claims it. He’s dominant, possessive, and entirely used to getting what he wants… and what he wants is Jules.
Jules, for her part, brings a refreshing mix of sass and reluctant compliance. She pushes back just enough to keep things interesting, though I’ll admit I wanted more sparks, more clashes. With personalities like theirs, a bit more fire wouldn’t have gone amiss. Still, their chemistry is undeniable: intense, charged, and woven tightly into the story’s steady, addictive pace.
I devoured this book like a tantalising piece of cake which is always the mark of a gripping read. The storyline is strong, layered with intrigue and a cast of side characters who feel like they’re just waiting for their own spotlight. And Vincent? Equal parts captivating and concerning in the way only a well-written anti-hero can be.
Overall, a dark, compelling romance with bite. A little more friction between the leads and it would’ve been perfect but even so, this easily earns a strong 5 stars from me
Jules- the cheerleader everyone wanted in high school who secretly crushed on the nerdy boy in science class, but ends up with a loser boyfriend. She had big dreams that were crushed but has some tricks and secrets up her sleeve. She’s also got some kinky fantasies she’s never been able to act out.
Vincent- the nerdy boy who loved the cheerleader but never pursued her. He has a traumatic and harsh childhood but ends up a multimillionaire. He has everything you could ever want except Jules. He’s an unhinged, morally gray possessive, obsessed and selfish stalker who doesn’t exactly take no for an answer.
Okay, I did like this book, however, the story is just so unrealistic. That being said it did get better after about the 50% mark. The beginning moves way too fast and is very hard to believe. The stalking, the rape and kidnapping, and then her not being super upset about it really throws me off. BUT I guess it does make a little more sense at the end of the book. The main storyline of the human trafficking is actually pretty interesting, but there are definitely some very mature themes in this book. Must read triggers! It also sets up nicely for book 2. Lots of spice if that’s what you want, but also lots of action and an actual plot. My biggest complaint is the grammatical errors, being an ARC it may not be like that in the actual released book. Other than that, it’s your typical ’unrealistic’ dark romance novel. It kept my interest regardless and I am interested in continuing the series for now. The dynamic between the FMC and MMC is unhinged, dramatic and intense but in the end your rooting for them.
This book may not be for everyone, please read the trigger warnings!
I was really surprised by this book; it is not my regular genre that I normally reach for, but I was given the opportunity to honestly review with an advanced copy from the author. I have to say this story was well written; especially given my understanding this was the author’s first book. There are trigger warnings given but I myself did not find the story to be a problem in that sense; instead found humor and in some parts the author was able to connect you with the characters easily to give understanding to their individual motives. It doesn’t seem like you’d be able to relate to some of the darker personality traits of Vincent but the author did so in such a way that I found myself rooting for him like I did in the books and series show of “Dexter” the serial killer. If you haven’t seen or read that it may be hard to understand how love and murder and obsession can be written in a good way. I was able to finish this book in one night as once I began reading I found myself being swept forward into the story, I look forward to a continuation of these characters story and can imagine a few of the other protagonists introduced in the book have much to tell as well as this book mainly did a great job centered around the two main characters Vincent and Jules and their story together. I think most people will enjoy this read even if it is not your normal romance. Romance with a deep dark twist? Only thing I can add is I wish it had been longer; I would have enjoyed delving deeper into the lives of these two.
To be honest, I wasn't sure I was going to finish this book. This book started off with an unsettling non-consent scene. Typically it wouldn't have triggered this type of response (I have very few triggers), but for some reason I sat on it and strongly considered a DNF. That said, if that type of response was the author's intent, well consider it mission accomplished. Vincent, MMC, is a brilliant and accomplished weapons CEO. He has earned his billions through legal and illegal (of course) means, but has spent his life longing to claim Jules... his high school crush. He has been secretly following, aka stalking, her as she navigated life with her high school boyfriend. Brock is a waste of space and a useless excuse for a man. One night, he comes home and lays his hands on Jules (for the first time I believe). Vince takes her away from him and brings her to his compound to save her and give her the life she deserves.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
Now, for my rating... I wanted to love this more than I did. The idea of an obsessed MMC is my jam. This book was high octane and filled with completely wild storylines. For such a short book, my head was spinning. Some of the plot could have been fleshed out more. The MCs were virtually strangers in one chapter then in a fake relationship the next and then the next "together" because it didn't feel like simply a deal anymore. We also find out that Jules is a hacker about 2/3 of the way through the book. It was just sort of mentioned and then she was able to hack into Vince's company system to snoop around and play with the sound system. Her skillset was recognized by a high school teacher who pulled some strings to get her into college where the hope was she could work with the CIA or FBI, but ends up working as a waitress, yet hacks on the side through contract work. Then there was a trafficking ring included for good measure.
Although this didn't hit for me, I can see how other readers would gobble this story up. It is intense, spicy, complete with a billionaire-obsessed MMC who will support the FMC’s wildest kinks. If these tropes speak to you, definitely encourage you to pick this up.
I received an advanced reader copy of Masked Stalker via Book Sirens.
I really wanted to give this book 5 stars, and the only reason I did not was because of how quickly it jumps from one scene to the next. If some of the scenes had a chance to cook a little bit longer it would be a 5 star for sure! That being said, it still is a great read.
A very fast paced story with a lot of twists and turns, and holy spice right out of the gate. It’s a quick read, that will leave you wanting to know more. This is the first book of an unfinished series that will make you question if that innocent looking bird on your window sill is actually watching you…. The crows are always watching.
You will fall in love with Vince right in the beginning despite his stalkerish tendencies. You will kick your feet as Jules gets swept off hers, and when she reveals that there is more to her than meets the eye you will be cheering her on.
Brock will make your skin crawl and you will root for his demise and hope nothing but the worst for that scumbag.
I can’t wait to see what happens next, and to learn more about Aaron and Jessica’s story. He will intrigue you immediately out of the gate and her you will want to hate, but may change your mind when more comes to light.
Charles, Charles, Charles… what is your story? I want/need to know. I would love to read his story and hope he gets his own in the series.
Looking forward to the next installment of the story!
Victor is unapologetic about what he’s done and what he is willing to do in pursuit of getting to know everything about Jules. She has no clue he has been stalking her and creating a world specifically designed for her to live happily in when he steals her away from her current life and makes her his forever. It is not on a whim, and this man is a very thorough planner. However, Vincent is not just an obsessive man with unhinged devotion, billions of dollars, and a beautiful body. May someone/something have mercy on those who do wrong to the innocent, because he has absolutely none. He does not bow to the law or what is conventionally considered normal, and I love him for it!
Jules has secret dark fantasies, an abusive boyfriend, volunteers at a children’s crisis center, and is also involved in something that no one else around her knows about. She knows that what Vincent says and does should not be so easily accepted and turned on by, yet it is exactly what happens.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved everything about this book. There are varying degrees of good and bad in both main characters and the plot was so good. It is dirty heat, humor, possession, suspense, and lots of swoon. Vincent is the firework, she is the match, and together… boom!
Masked Stalker completely sucked me in. Vincent and Jules had the kind of chemistry that makes you kick your feet like a teenager one minute and clutch your chest the next. Their banter felt natural, funny, sweet, and genuinely believable, which made their relationship so much more addictive to read.
Jules ending up with Brock in high school while Vincent disappeared and built himself into someone rich, dangerous, and obsessed added such a good layer of tension to the story. Vincent stalking her for years should feel insane (and it absolutely is) but the way he loved and protected her after Brock hurt her somehow made it impossible not to root for him anyway.
The pacing was one of my favorite parts. Everything moved fast enough to keep me completely hooked, but never felt rushed or underdeveloped. There was still enough emotional depth and relationship building to make the connection between Jules and Vincent feel real instead of forced.
I honestly would love a follow-up book about their wedding and family life because I am not ready to let these characters go yet. Vincent and Jules were chaotic, sweet, intense, and weirdly comforting all at once. Exactly the kind of dark romance couple I love reading about.
I received an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Vincent is everything a true morally gray man should be. He is devastating to rest of the world but built his whole life to make her happy.
Jules is the woman I can see myself reflected in. She made decisions that weren't the best for her while ignoring something she felt.
I think the mark of a great book is being able to see yourself in the characters and being able to relate to the emotions. This one hit that mark for me. Every bad moment had me on the verge of tears and every exciting moment had me giggling and kicking my feet.
What others are saying about the pacing being really fast is accurate. For some that can be harder but I think it made this an easy read and something I would recommend to someone who wanted a quick read that will still live in their head rent free for a long time coming.
writing style: quick but descriptive. Slowed down in the moments that were important. Definitely hit all of the classic dark romance points and tropes perfectly.
This book does end on a bit of a cliffhanger due to being the beginning of an interconnected standalone world. Think Rina Kent or Stantel Tessier.
Final thoughts: I'm hooked and cant wait for the next one. Will be recommending to all of my dark romance girlies.
I went into this book expecting a dark read, but I didn’t expect to be completely hooked from the very first pages. The opening doesn’t ease you in either it throws you straight into intense, triggering moments that instantly set the tone. It’s raw, gripping, and impossible to ignore.
Jules is such a compelling character. You feel her vulnerability, her strength, and the emotional weight she carries all at once. You root for her, worry for her, and stay invested in every decision she makes.
Then there’s Vincent ohhh Vincent who's complex, intense, and honestly hard to look away from. His presence adds this constant tension that keeps you questioning everything.
What really stood out to me was how the story never lost momentum. From start to finish, I was locked in to every chapter. It pulled me deeper. It’s one of those books you keep thinking about even after you put it down.
This was my first ARC book read I have ever received complimentary, and I am so greatful and will be definitely investing in my own personal copy.
If you like stalker romances like Lights Out, the Pen Pal series, or Once You’re Mine, this is definitely one to check out. (And as my first stalker romance… I’m intrigued 👀)
I loved how this book throws you straight into the chaos from the very beginning. Jules and Vincent knew each other in high school, but both carry trauma from their pasts, which added so much depth to the story.
Jules felt incredibly real and relatable as an FMC. I especially loved seeing her growth throughout the book because it felt natural and believable rather than forced. Vincent is slightly unhinged in the best way, completely badass, and unapologetically himself. I really appreciated that the author never tried to “fix” him through love. He stays true to exactly who he is the entire story.
The pacing in this one is fast, so pay close attention because the side characters add so much to the story and are easy to get invested in. I’m already excited for book 2 because I need more of this world and these characters.
From the very first chapter, it kicks off strong and immediately throws you into a dark, tension-heavy game of cat and mouse that refuses to let go. The masked stalker element adds that thrilling edge, but it’s the chemistry the really hooks you—every interaction is loaded, every glance feels dangerous, and the slow unraveling of whats going to happen next keeps you flipping pages.
The spice? 🔥 It’s bold, it’s intense, and it hits at just the right moments without taking away from the story. It adds to the obsession, the power dynamics, and the emotional pull between the characters instead of just being there for shock value.
And the twists?? Just when you think you have it figured out, the plot thickens and shifts again. I genuinely couldn’t put it down—I devoured it in 6 hours and still wanted more.
That ending though… expect to be left breathless, slightly unhinged, and desperately needing the next book.
What a spicy, wild ride! This is not my normal corner of fiction, but I found myself immensely enjoying the story and development of the characters and their relationship, including the darker sides of their romance. In my humble opinion, the crown jewel of this book is the underlying plot that addresses combatting human trafficking and the way Angel Dee cleverly tied each corner of the more serious elements of her book into the perfect bow and presented the story to us prettily packaged. By the end of the book, I was fully invested and am now ready for the next book. I also want to mention how much I appreciated the witty banter, memorable minor characters, and perfectly written ending. Every part of this book shows the dedication and care put into it by someone dedicated to their craft, and my hat is off to Angel Dee and her ability to actually pull me into dark romance and leave me wanting more.
If all of the books from this author are like this one, I believe this will be my new favorite author. I am just saying I could not put this book down. Even in real life, I like my men a little psycho and obsessed. Vincent's love and obsession for Jules was like my ideal man. I was so happy to see Brock get what he deserved. There were so many times that this book had me laughing so hard. This is a quote from the book that had me in tears: "I've never been afraid of anyone in my adult life, but I've heard that when a woman moves past pissed and straight to measured calm, you may need to fear for your life." I can attest that that is absolutely true. And another thing that I loved is that this book was set in Seattle and Renton, Washington. I grew up in both Seattle and Renton, so I enjoy when a book is from my home.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Vincent, a powerful CEO and billionaire of a weapons conglomerate, had darkness and secrets behind his tailored suit. But he could never forget the girl from his past that he left behind.
When their path crossed again, he found Jules, the girl from his past that he never stopped thinking about, in an abusive relationship. He isn't willing to let her stay with him, so he takes her and keeps her, saying it's for her protection. Sparks fly between them as he makes her feel safe enough to allow her dark submissive desires out, ones that she kept hidden. He's all for showing her what she's been missing 🔥! The chemistry between Vicent and Jules was intense, and the steam was descriptive and super hot!
We get drama, action, suspense and some twists when an underground trafficking ring comes to light. Inflicting the ring in a world built on corruption is not an easy feat, but they aren't going to let them get away with it.
Overall: 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice/Heat Intensity: 5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Main Characters: Vincent & Jules Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 Type of book: MF, Dual 1st Person POV Reading Order: Standalone Title: The Crows Are Watching Series- Masked Stalker: Book 1 Epilogue: Yes Ending Type: HEA
*OTT: Possessive, obsessive, dominant, loyal and protective MMC *Eyes only for her *Somno *Stalking *Voyeurism/Exhibitionism *Breeding *No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
Honestly I was going to DNF around chapter 10 but I stuck with it and had a great time! The beginning is so fast paced because what do you mean he stalks her, kidnaps her, rescued her, to fake dating and she already loves him it’s crazy! But stick with it because it does get better!
Vincent has had a crush on Jules since high school and begins to stalk her and then kidnaps her and she’s secretly a freak that wasn’t allowed to let it show until she got with Vincent. Vince has some danger that comes with his business but he’s not trying to be soft he has control and is intense and it makes his character lovable!
I’m so glad I kept reading because this book was a work of art! So unhinged and hot and I am obsessed!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I just finished Masked Stalker, and wow. This was my first time reading this type of dark romance, and I was honestly surprised by how much I loved it. From the very beginning, the story pulls you in and doesn’t let go. The writing style is smooth, relatable, and easy to get into, which made the darker themes feel immersive rather than overwhelming.
The plot twists were so well done. The kind that genuinely catch you off guard and keep you thinking after you’ve finished. I had the chance to read this as an advanced reader copy, and I’m already looking forward to book two. This is definitely one I’ll be adding to my physical shelf.
Adding another book boyfriend to my list. This book was amazing, and I devoured it in a day. I absolutely loved everything about this book. Read the author's note to set the tone and for maximum emotional damage in the best way possible.
This story starts unhinged, the middle is pure chaos and shocking WTF moments at the end with a plot twist you will not see coming, and that cliffhanger.
Vincent, OMG, this man is everything I love in a masked, morally grey MMC.
Jules is so relatable with her past trauma, and her character growth is mind-blowing with a hidden secret.
The side characters are so lovable... I NEED Aaron's story NOW!!!!
This is a fast-paced story. If you like:
If you like: 👉 Morally Grey MMC 👉Enemies x Lovers 👉Forced Proximity 👉 Touch her and ☠️ 👉 Banter
Genre/Type: Dark Romance Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ Series/Standalone: Book 1 ( The Crows are Watching) Check Trigger warnings⚠️ Publish date: June 1, 2026
Lastly, thank you, Angel Dee, and Booksirens, for my ARC.
4.5 ⭐️Thank you to the author Angel Dee for the opportunity to read her first book as an arc. I have to say this was very well written for a first book!
This is not a slow burn, you jump right into the story. At first I wasn’t sure how I would like the MMC but he grew on me and I love him. Jules is in an abusive relationship but Vince has known her since high school and truly has an obsession with her. He saves her from the relationship and they agree to a “fake” relationship but he knows he’s never letting her go.
It was a quick, easy read and I couldn’t put it down!
PLEASE CHECK YOUR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING!
Absolutely loved it! The plot sucked me in instantly. The MMC Vincent is every masked stalkers dark romance dream. The FMC Jules speaks to my soul with her fire, and learning how to live. You get extra spice starting in the beginning of the book which in my opinion is superb! There’s a few funny moments in there that had me laughing hard. There’s a lot of triggers so be sure to check the trigger warnings. If you want true dark romance this book is for you.
Im so glad I saw her TikTok’s and instantly feel in love with what she put out. A fantastic author who is down to earth. I can’t wait for book 2!
Vincent has been eyeing Jules since high school, but Jules had a mean boyfriend, Brock. Vincent doesn't know if she will remember him, but he is gonna make her his one way or another. This book has choas, trauma, and tryin to fit in somewhere. Vincent and Jules story is not ur normal love story at all, but it works for them. This book is so fast-paced that it had me hooked from beginning to end. If u love dark romance, touch her and be unalived ur gonna wanna read this book.
Thanks to Booksirens for sendin me an advanced readin copy to read and review.