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The Creatures We Crave #1
Monsters Within
Have you ever lost yourself in a fantasy world you created?
That’s how I’ve survived the years alone in a reality where humans cower in fear of supernatural creatures hiding behind the veil.
All I’ve ever had is my pen, my notebook, and the world I created to make it through the days as a ward of the state, suffering at the hands of the real villains of the world...Humans.
The pages of my notebook hold five sinful, feared monsters. Ones that I certainly shouldn’t be pining over since they aren’t even real.
I question my grip on reality when real life and fantasy collide as my words suddenly come to life. Out of the pages climb each of the beautifully twisted monsters I created with my ink.
Magical factions fight for control over me and my monsters, claiming I have the potential to topple empires with my power to create.
Dark Imaginarium Academy claims to want to help me learn about my new powers. The Headmistress says they can protect me, but I’m not so sure about that.
The one thing I am sure about? I’ll destroy the world if they try to take my monsters from me.
Because my creations aren’t just monsters—they’re my soulmates.
***
Monsters Within is book one in The Creatures We Crave series, which is set within the shared universe of Dark Imaginarium Academy. All series can be read independently, but characters have crossovers and it is highly encouraged to read all within the universe to understand the world in its entirety.
DARK IMAGINARIUM ACADEMY FEATURES CHARACTERS THAT ARE ALL 18+. THIS IS NOT A HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY SETTING AND THE CONTENTS ARE INTENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES.
That’s how I’ve survived the years alone in a reality where humans cower in fear of supernatural creatures hiding behind the veil.
All I’ve ever had is my pen, my notebook, and the world I created to make it through the days as a ward of the state, suffering at the hands of the real villains of the world...Humans.
The pages of my notebook hold five sinful, feared monsters. Ones that I certainly shouldn’t be pining over since they aren’t even real.
I question my grip on reality when real life and fantasy collide as my words suddenly come to life. Out of the pages climb each of the beautifully twisted monsters I created with my ink.
Magical factions fight for control over me and my monsters, claiming I have the potential to topple empires with my power to create.
Dark Imaginarium Academy claims to want to help me learn about my new powers. The Headmistress says they can protect me, but I’m not so sure about that.
The one thing I am sure about? I’ll destroy the world if they try to take my monsters from me.
Because my creations aren’t just monsters—they’re my soulmates.
***
Monsters Within is book one in The Creatures We Crave series, which is set within the shared universe of Dark Imaginarium Academy. All series can be read independently, but characters have crossovers and it is highly encouraged to read all within the universe to understand the world in its entirety.
DARK IMAGINARIUM ACADEMY FEATURES CHARACTERS THAT ARE ALL 18+. THIS IS NOT A HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY SETTING AND THE CONTENTS ARE INTENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES.
308 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2022
2403 people are currently reading
4297 people want to read
About the author
R.L. Caulder
42 books1,649 followersR.L. Caulder is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in her writing cave away from the intense heat of the Florida sun with her husband and furry writing assistants, MeowMeow and Winrey. Life is never boring for R.L., who has hundreds of imaginary friends constantly vying for her attention and begging for their stories to be told.
If you're looking for ways to interact with R.L., you can find her on Facebook, in her group:
The Cauldron: R.L. Caulder Reader Group
If you're looking for ways to interact with R.L., you can find her on Facebook, in her group:
The Cauldron: R.L. Caulder Reader Group
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 416 reviews
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dnf
July 3, 2022DNF @ 37%…this just isn’t working for me, but every once in awhile I find myself drawn in by the paranormal academy RH plot line and pretty much every time it’s a massive disappointment hah so if anyone has any better than usual suggestions in this genre I might try them out when the mood strikes again🙃
March 22, 2022
I think the authors writing style and I just don’t vibe because I was pretty bored
August 25, 2023
The ending gave me goosebumps. Another great entry in the multi author shared world of The Dark Imaginarium Academy. The characters are unique and well thought out. The story is engaging with a good steam level for a book 1. The ending definitely left me wanting more.
April 1, 2022
Finding a place in the world is hard. Alexandra lived a tough life. She had nobody to comfort her but a pen, paper, and her imagination. That's when she created five perfect monsters. What she thought was imaginary, ended up being something in lurking in the shadows. Her life is flipped upside down when she realizes that she has a gift. She and her monsters are relocated to an Academy that will help her or something more sinister.
So I've promised myself that I would take a break from my monster smut binge. But, when I heard about R.L. Caulder and M. Sinclair are doing another shared world series together, I had to get some of that. It's like dangling sweets in front of me. Let me tell you, this did not disappoint. There were times where it was a bit slow, but overall, this was such a fun read. The whole alpha "touch her and I'll unalive you" is literally my kryptonite. Seriously though, I can't wait for more!
So I've promised myself that I would take a break from my monster smut binge. But, when I heard about R.L. Caulder and M. Sinclair are doing another shared world series together, I had to get some of that. It's like dangling sweets in front of me. Let me tell you, this did not disappoint. There were times where it was a bit slow, but overall, this was such a fun read. The whole alpha "touch her and I'll unalive you" is literally my kryptonite. Seriously though, I can't wait for more!
March 25, 2022
For as long as I can remember I've been reading, writing and creating stories in my head. There were times as a kid that I was really looking forward to going to bed, because then I could continue the fantasy and story I was creating. So, this book and I were a perfect fit from the very start and as soon as I read the blurb I knew that I simply had to read this book, one way or another. Luckily I eventually even got an arc!
And this story is like a reader's and author's dream come true. How amazing would it be if the characters you created in a story, the guys loving you unconditionally and helping you to handle all the issues you are dealing with came to life? How awesome is it that those stories you created and all the secrets you've told literally shaped people into being? Throughout the entire story I couldn't help but wonder why such things never happen to me.
Since especially the guys are still looking for who they are, now they are outside the fantasy world our heroine created, they lack an interesting backstory. However, I like how Caulder still managed to make them different, to give them personality and character. I'm quite sure they will keep on growing during the series. Just like our heroine! It's quite clear something special is going on with her and I can't wait to see how her story continues!
And normally I wouldn't say anything about sex scenes in a book. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind them and in most cases I enjoy reading them, but they're not why I'm reading these books. I'm here for the plots and the multiple boyfriends. However, I think I have a new favorite fictional sex scene and it's in this book. I'm single, but if I ever find a boyfriend I will certainly try this at home! And no need to go to the library. My reverse harem collection is big enough (and still growing)!
And this story is like a reader's and author's dream come true. How amazing would it be if the characters you created in a story, the guys loving you unconditionally and helping you to handle all the issues you are dealing with came to life? How awesome is it that those stories you created and all the secrets you've told literally shaped people into being? Throughout the entire story I couldn't help but wonder why such things never happen to me.
Since especially the guys are still looking for who they are, now they are outside the fantasy world our heroine created, they lack an interesting backstory. However, I like how Caulder still managed to make them different, to give them personality and character. I'm quite sure they will keep on growing during the series. Just like our heroine! It's quite clear something special is going on with her and I can't wait to see how her story continues!
And normally I wouldn't say anything about sex scenes in a book. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind them and in most cases I enjoy reading them, but they're not why I'm reading these books. I'm here for the plots and the multiple boyfriends. However, I think I have a new favorite fictional sex scene and it's in this book. I'm single, but if I ever find a boyfriend I will certainly try this at home! And no need to go to the library. My reverse harem collection is big enough (and still growing)!
March 18, 2022
This book was so unique and creative, I absolutely loved it.
Throughout Alexandra’s life, she has created and drawn out her “imaginary” monsters and has interacted with them daily throughout her days through stories. They are her creations she gets lost in to uncover the real monsters in the human world. Come to find out, they are not really just her imagination, they become real.
This whole story sucked me in. Her monsters Lucien, Kylo and Elwin are all so protective and possessive over her. They will do anything to help support and protect her. They all need each other in different ways. Since they have been with each other for a long time, when their relationship moves towards the romantic side, it all happened organically which was perfect!
The mystery behind it all!!! I cannot wait to find out more about Alexandra, Lucien, Kylo and Elwin!!
Throughout Alexandra’s life, she has created and drawn out her “imaginary” monsters and has interacted with them daily throughout her days through stories. They are her creations she gets lost in to uncover the real monsters in the human world. Come to find out, they are not really just her imagination, they become real.
This whole story sucked me in. Her monsters Lucien, Kylo and Elwin are all so protective and possessive over her. They will do anything to help support and protect her. They all need each other in different ways. Since they have been with each other for a long time, when their relationship moves towards the romantic side, it all happened organically which was perfect!
The mystery behind it all!!! I cannot wait to find out more about Alexandra, Lucien, Kylo and Elwin!!
March 30, 2022
Dark Imaginarium Academy is a focal point of RL Caulder and several other authors. And it is an Amazing place to be for Alexandra.
As a product of the foster care system, Alexandra has created a threesome of monsters to assist her in her imaginary attempt to slay and damage those who have done her wrong. She believes them to be creatures she has created in her heart, to pacify the hurt that continues to befall her.
That is, until she sees three sets of eyes-in blue, green, and red-and falls down that rabbit hole of her shadow monsters becoming a reality.
Caulder, once again, is able to create a stunning visual of her characters and their interactions, through a wonderful use of description. We are able to feel each pain, joy, hurt, and happiness!
As a product of the foster care system, Alexandra has created a threesome of monsters to assist her in her imaginary attempt to slay and damage those who have done her wrong. She believes them to be creatures she has created in her heart, to pacify the hurt that continues to befall her.
That is, until she sees three sets of eyes-in blue, green, and red-and falls down that rabbit hole of her shadow monsters becoming a reality.
Caulder, once again, is able to create a stunning visual of her characters and their interactions, through a wonderful use of description. We are able to feel each pain, joy, hurt, and happiness!
March 30, 2022
Just out of foster care and straight into college Alexander is a social loner and a high achiever which makes her pretty much an outcast there. Until she starts to create a trio of monsters - Lucien, Elwin and Kylo to be there to get her through everything in her life. I really liked Alexander's dynamic with her monsters. It was sweet to begin with moving on to steamy as the book progressed. I loved that it was another book that's included in The Dark Imaginarium series and it was great that some of the other characters from this books turned up in this one. A good read with a great cliffhanger ending. Bring on book 2 now
December 9, 2025
Easy and fast read but enjoyable too.
Not a ton of spice but this is much more of an origin book and the times it happened felt right for the story. Anything more would have felt forced.
I like that the fmc is 21. Not 18. And isn’t tstl nor so brilliant that we are all inwardly groaning 🙄
The biggest issue I have is this author INSISTS on her fmcs BITING or nibbling their mfcking lips every other page and it IS NOT SEXY.
Yo. It’s fcking gross.
Fix it. Lord. Fix. It.
Not a ton of spice but this is much more of an origin book and the times it happened felt right for the story. Anything more would have felt forced.
I like that the fmc is 21. Not 18. And isn’t tstl nor so brilliant that we are all inwardly groaning 🙄
The biggest issue I have is this author INSISTS on her fmcs BITING or nibbling their mfcking lips every other page and it IS NOT SEXY.
Yo. It’s fcking gross.
Fix it. Lord. Fix. It.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
An interesting but slow start to the series. You only start to learn a little about what she can do with no answers towards the end. How she 'meets' her men is definitely something new. I'm a little sad that they were already in love with each other but interested to see how their relationship progresses. I like the cameo with Alina.
March 28, 2022
Monsters Within is the first book in R.L. Caulder’s The Creatures We Crave series. Prepare to meet Alexandra. She dreams of being something more than just an average human, but for now her dreams are just that – dreams. But with the marking of her birthday will change everything in her life.
Monsters Within was one of those books that I mysteriously found myself at the end before I even realized it. LOL! This book is good. I like knowing bits and pieces of Alexandra’s past in just the right places. I loved how relatable of a character she is. Overall, she’s a really engaging character and I enjoy her. I love how she loves books, and how she reacts to certain characters in this book. It really draws me to her and makes me love her all the more.
There are so many familiar names in this book, and there are two characters that I can’t wait to read more about when their stories. I love how the author blends these characters and storylines together to create this engaging novel. It all crosses paths with each other, but manages to not become a tangled mess in the process.
My only complaint about this book – Lucien. He’s too over-the-top for me. I don’t like controlling males and he is that in spades. I get that Alexandra finds it sexy and hot, but quite a bit of his behavior is rude, disrespectful, and just downright cringe worthy. I hate to say it but he is probably my least favorite character of all the characters thus far. I’m sure that he’ll have some “redeemable” moment in future books, but I don’t know if my opinion will really change when it comes to him. Because when you feel the need to be growling and acting aggressive to a professor who simply touches your girl in a completely platonic manner – you need to get some serious therapy.
I’m rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. Less domineering Lucien and more of the two more balanced guys and I’ll love this series to the ends of the Earth. LOL! I’m loving the developing female friendships as well, and I look forward to those continuing to grow. Brace yourself for a cliffhanger that will have you raving for more. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Monsters Within was one of those books that I mysteriously found myself at the end before I even realized it. LOL! This book is good. I like knowing bits and pieces of Alexandra’s past in just the right places. I loved how relatable of a character she is. Overall, she’s a really engaging character and I enjoy her. I love how she loves books, and how she reacts to certain characters in this book. It really draws me to her and makes me love her all the more.
There are so many familiar names in this book, and there are two characters that I can’t wait to read more about when their stories. I love how the author blends these characters and storylines together to create this engaging novel. It all crosses paths with each other, but manages to not become a tangled mess in the process.
My only complaint about this book – Lucien. He’s too over-the-top for me. I don’t like controlling males and he is that in spades. I get that Alexandra finds it sexy and hot, but quite a bit of his behavior is rude, disrespectful, and just downright cringe worthy. I hate to say it but he is probably my least favorite character of all the characters thus far. I’m sure that he’ll have some “redeemable” moment in future books, but I don’t know if my opinion will really change when it comes to him. Because when you feel the need to be growling and acting aggressive to a professor who simply touches your girl in a completely platonic manner – you need to get some serious therapy.
I’m rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. Less domineering Lucien and more of the two more balanced guys and I’ll love this series to the ends of the Earth. LOL! I’m loving the developing female friendships as well, and I look forward to those continuing to grow. Brace yourself for a cliffhanger that will have you raving for more. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
March 29, 2022
Monsters Within, the first book in the Creatures We Crave series by R.L. Caulder is a definite must read for any RH monster/academy romance loving fan! This story was a fantastic dip into the magical world of the Dark Imaginarium Academy, a university for supernaturals featured in many other collaborations with M. Sinclair, and it is absolutely fabulous! The world building is spot on, the characters are well developed and diverse and the plot flowed beautifully throughout the entire story.
Alexandra, our beloved fmc, has grown up in the foster system and spent most of her time living in a world of her own creation with monsters she helped bring forth as her only friends. As she grew older, she found herself writing and creating amazing stories with her men and would oftentimes escape to their “reality” when in need. However, one day her fierce protectors, Kylo, Lucien, and Elwin, come to life and make an appearance and everything changes for our heroine, and our group soon finds themselves in a different realm and college.
A college where they fit in better than they could have imagined with their uniqueness. And while her monsters may appear frightening to others, to Alexandra they are perfection and each unique in their own way. I absolutely loved how Alexandra’s monsters were super protective of her and how they were full of nothing but love and utter devotion for her—even if at times they may have been a bit too OTTP and wanted to express their feelings in a deadly way lol And even though this story was more of a medium burn, their chemistry was still spectacular and definitely had some heat!
Overall if you’re a fan of super protective and possessive sexy monsters that only have eyes for their beloved heroine then this is the story for you! R. L. Calder is a true master at world building and character development in a monster setting and this book was no exception and I can’t wait for more of this series!
Alexandra, our beloved fmc, has grown up in the foster system and spent most of her time living in a world of her own creation with monsters she helped bring forth as her only friends. As she grew older, she found herself writing and creating amazing stories with her men and would oftentimes escape to their “reality” when in need. However, one day her fierce protectors, Kylo, Lucien, and Elwin, come to life and make an appearance and everything changes for our heroine, and our group soon finds themselves in a different realm and college.
A college where they fit in better than they could have imagined with their uniqueness. And while her monsters may appear frightening to others, to Alexandra they are perfection and each unique in their own way. I absolutely loved how Alexandra’s monsters were super protective of her and how they were full of nothing but love and utter devotion for her—even if at times they may have been a bit too OTTP and wanted to express their feelings in a deadly way lol And even though this story was more of a medium burn, their chemistry was still spectacular and definitely had some heat!
Overall if you’re a fan of super protective and possessive sexy monsters that only have eyes for their beloved heroine then this is the story for you! R. L. Calder is a true master at world building and character development in a monster setting and this book was no exception and I can’t wait for more of this series!
May 18, 2022
The story is pretty bland, and it's mostly expositional. I don't hate the characters, but I can't get invested in their dynamic. Not enough time is spent with just the female lead, so all the characterisation feels forced? Our female lead just spends most of the story as a passive character, so we never see any character traits other than "likes black clothes" and "loves her three monsters", so it's hard to form an attachment. The male leads have a slightly more interesting dynamic, and the interaction is cute, but at times the author states out character traits and this takes away from the characters. It's more fun to draw conclusions from their actions instead of repeatedly stating that they're X or Y. Ultimately, the concept is interesting but the execution and characterisation is sadly lacking. Might read the sequel if it's better.
Tl;Dr, interesting concept, but the characters ain't it
Tl;Dr, interesting concept, but the characters ain't it
March 29, 2022
DNF - quit at 10%
I tried, but this really just jumped around and made no sense or seemed to not have any real direction to the story. There wasn't a good hook to pull me into the story enough to want to continue either. Half of the part I read (5% at least) is her writing in her journal/note-book about her "monsters". It just didn't pull me into the story enough to care about the character or the story in general. I think this author's writing style is just not my taste or something.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
I tried, but this really just jumped around and made no sense or seemed to not have any real direction to the story. There wasn't a good hook to pull me into the story enough to want to continue either. Half of the part I read (5% at least) is her writing in her journal/note-book about her "monsters". It just didn't pull me into the story enough to care about the character or the story in general. I think this author's writing style is just not my taste or something.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
November 19, 2023
2 stars
So I can’t really pin point what exactly I didn’t like about this book. Maybe it was so childish? But it wasn’t at the same time? I really didn’t like world building or that the men were specifically created to worship the ground she walked on. They had no personality. No wants or needs they were created for her alone and I don’t like that idea. It also gives off special snowflake pick me vibes which sucks bc the FMC doesn’t suck all the time. Actually maybe I can say what I don’t like lol
So I can’t really pin point what exactly I didn’t like about this book. Maybe it was so childish? But it wasn’t at the same time? I really didn’t like world building or that the men were specifically created to worship the ground she walked on. They had no personality. No wants or needs they were created for her alone and I don’t like that idea. It also gives off special snowflake pick me vibes which sucks bc the FMC doesn’t suck all the time. Actually maybe I can say what I don’t like lol
Want to read
March 30, 2024I’m literally so confused. The description says she has five love interests, but in the book there’s 3? Does she meet the other two in the next book or something?
October 13, 2024
Rating: 3.75 stars
Alright, buckle up because this one is a wild ride! Alexandra and her monsters? Absolute gold. It’s like someone took the everyday life of a woman trying to figure things out and threw in some creatures with more sass than most of my friends. Honestly, I didn’t expect to get so hooked on her crazy new life, but here we are—reading way past my bedtime and thinking about moving into a cave with a few monsters myself (just kidding… mostly).
The plot twists? Oh boy. Just when you think things couldn’t get weirder—BAM! Alexandra’s life does another backflip. And let me tell you, I’m living for it. Sure, there were a couple of parts where I thought, "Okay, we could move this along now," but overall, I was in deep. The way the story pivots keeps you on your toes, and I’m now emotionally invested in these creatures like they're long-lost friends.
Also, can we talk about the other characters? I’m already snooping through the next books, eyeing them like a snack I just have to try. There’s so much intrigue, it’s like they dangled a shiny object in front of me and now I can’t help but chase it.
I may not be giving it a full 5 stars, but that’s just because I’m greedy and I want more of the world, more of the monsters, and maybe a little more action in spots. But honestly? I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series. Alexandra, you and your crew have me hooked! Onward to the next adventure!
Alright, buckle up because this one is a wild ride! Alexandra and her monsters? Absolute gold. It’s like someone took the everyday life of a woman trying to figure things out and threw in some creatures with more sass than most of my friends. Honestly, I didn’t expect to get so hooked on her crazy new life, but here we are—reading way past my bedtime and thinking about moving into a cave with a few monsters myself (just kidding… mostly).
The plot twists? Oh boy. Just when you think things couldn’t get weirder—BAM! Alexandra’s life does another backflip. And let me tell you, I’m living for it. Sure, there were a couple of parts where I thought, "Okay, we could move this along now," but overall, I was in deep. The way the story pivots keeps you on your toes, and I’m now emotionally invested in these creatures like they're long-lost friends.
Also, can we talk about the other characters? I’m already snooping through the next books, eyeing them like a snack I just have to try. There’s so much intrigue, it’s like they dangled a shiny object in front of me and now I can’t help but chase it.
I may not be giving it a full 5 stars, but that’s just because I’m greedy and I want more of the world, more of the monsters, and maybe a little more action in spots. But honestly? I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series. Alexandra, you and your crew have me hooked! Onward to the next adventure!
February 9, 2025
A good introduction book to these characters and the back story they know.
RH academy, part of a universe written by two authors, R.L. Caulder and M. Sinclair. There doesn't seem to be a confirmed reading order. But I would read the joint book series Monarchs of Hell first. The academy series is set a few decades after Monarchs of Hell.
The characters I'm loving already, they have a lovely dynamic, which is developing as they work through their new reality and truths. FMC is funny, smart, and loving. 3 brother MMCs are discovering the world. Written from all their POVs, we get to learn quickly as they learn. This includes their sexual wants and kinks, making it spicy (panting hot) as well as sweet and cute.
Book 1 also has characters who also have their own series in the universe. So far, I think we met the Blood oath, and Pharse of the moon... I think. This ends in a cliffhanger
3.7 stars
RH academy, part of a universe written by two authors, R.L. Caulder and M. Sinclair. There doesn't seem to be a confirmed reading order. But I would read the joint book series Monarchs of Hell first. The academy series is set a few decades after Monarchs of Hell.
The characters I'm loving already, they have a lovely dynamic, which is developing as they work through their new reality and truths. FMC is funny, smart, and loving. 3 brother MMCs are discovering the world. Written from all their POVs, we get to learn quickly as they learn. This includes their sexual wants and kinks, making it spicy (panting hot) as well as sweet and cute.
Book 1 also has characters who also have their own series in the universe. So far, I think we met the Blood oath, and Pharse of the moon... I think. This ends in a cliffhanger
3.7 stars
May 29, 2022
Interesting and unique start to a series. I really loved how Alexandra's harem are actually from the characters she created through her writing. There's definitely more to it than that, but it established from the beginning that she and Hs all 'know' each other.
All of her monsters are extremely protective, sweet, and devoted to her, so that was great. In that way, there's no angst and drama but also not cheesy. I think if you're looking for an academy RH that's bully/drama free, you'll really enjoy this. Since this is a shared world with M Sinclair, Alexandra befriends other characters that have their own story as well.
All of her monsters are extremely protective, sweet, and devoted to her, so that was great. In that way, there's no angst and drama but also not cheesy. I think if you're looking for an academy RH that's bully/drama free, you'll really enjoy this. Since this is a shared world with M Sinclair, Alexandra befriends other characters that have their own story as well.
March 28, 2022
this is hands down my favorite book by RL! i’ve loved everything she’s written so far, but this is next level. it was so good!
Alexandra lives a sad, simple life constantly let down by humans. her only solace are the monsters she writes in her book. but when somehow the monsters become real, Alexandra and her men navigate their powers at Dark Imaginariam Academy.
This is like hogwarts for all supernatural. i seriously loved learning about this place and the friends Alexandra has made along the way.
Really looking forward to the rest of this series!
Alexandra lives a sad, simple life constantly let down by humans. her only solace are the monsters she writes in her book. but when somehow the monsters become real, Alexandra and her men navigate their powers at Dark Imaginariam Academy.
This is like hogwarts for all supernatural. i seriously loved learning about this place and the friends Alexandra has made along the way.
Really looking forward to the rest of this series!
March 29, 2022
This was a fun one. I absolutely love this world! Each book sucks you in.
This one started off a bit slow, but the build up was so satisfying.
So many questions are brought forth right on the beginning.
Her stories she used as her outlet became so much more than she ever could have imagined.
I really love her monsters, their differing personalities fit so well. They're all possessive but oh so sweet when it comes to her.
That cliffy has me sooo excited for the next book!
Excited for more from this world!!
This one started off a bit slow, but the build up was so satisfying.
So many questions are brought forth right on the beginning.
Her stories she used as her outlet became so much more than she ever could have imagined.
I really love her monsters, their differing personalities fit so well. They're all possessive but oh so sweet when it comes to her.
That cliffy has me sooo excited for the next book!
Excited for more from this world!!
March 30, 2022
So this is the shared universe of Dark Imaginarium Academy and is such a good read! Alexandra Is our mc who creates a world in her writing and In that world she creates these monsters, Lucien, Elwin, who come to life somehow and although they look terrifying they are completely and utterly devoted to Alexandra. There’s two layers of world building and both are incredible, the storyline intriguing and exciting and the characters are wonderful and you can’t help but like them. A great addition to this universe.
September 3, 2023
It was written like a Wattpad story. There was very little world building. There was insta-love but I guess it can be argued she knew her monsters her entire life but the rush to sexual intimacy felt a little forced. It’s only toward the end of the novel, which was a huge cliffhanger, that you’re teased with the possibility of who or what Alexandra and her monsters are. It wasn’t a terrible read, I finished it in one go but it wasn’t a well written masterpiece either. I may or may not continue with the series.
April 3, 2022
Alexandra is a human wishing she was a supernatural creature and using her high emotions has created 3 monsters in the form of stroreys of righting wrongs in her many notebooks.
On her 21st Birthday after being mistreated again by teh mean girls she suddenly discovers that her fantasies are actualy a reality which was amazing enough but then being saved by the Dark Imaginarium Supernatural Academy is teh icing on teh cake.
Great storey with sizzle ad steam
On her 21st Birthday after being mistreated again by teh mean girls she suddenly discovers that her fantasies are actualy a reality which was amazing enough but then being saved by the Dark Imaginarium Supernatural Academy is teh icing on teh cake.
Great storey with sizzle ad steam
March 28, 2022
This is every readers dream. Well at least mine, to be able to give life to our stories. I always loved books, they helpes me go thru a lot, they still do and I have a very fertile imagination... Oh if I had that kind of power.... I loved this book. I want more of it! Her monsters are so good and they are still growing because they have just being Born, imagine the possibilities? Loved it!
November 28, 2024
Monsters Oh My!
I love me a good monster story. This is a great one. Alex is a strong MFC and comes with 3 devoted monsters. The storyline is intriguing and I can't wait to start the next book!
I love me a good monster story. This is a great one. Alex is a strong MFC and comes with 3 devoted monsters. The storyline is intriguing and I can't wait to start the next book!
April 10, 2022
Great start
What a great start to this new series in this shared world. Loved the characters and the story line and ending left me with my jaw on the floor!
What a great start to this new series in this shared world. Loved the characters and the story line and ending left me with my jaw on the floor!
October 28, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
The world building is interesting enough. I like Alexandra and her snarky attitude. Her guys are just the cutest. 🥰
The world building is interesting enough. I like Alexandra and her snarky attitude. Her guys are just the cutest. 🥰
March 18, 2022
This book was really interesting. Alexandra always dreamed of monsters and a better life. When the monsters become real her whole life changes. She is suddenly thrust into a whole new life and powers she has no idea how to control.
August 8, 2022
Page Turner !!
This book was not what I was expecting. This is only my second book by RL Caulder and I had no idea the series even intersected like this! I love it.
This is Alexandra's story. Tired and alone, her only escape is her writing. Her characters from a young age, Lucien, Elwin and Kylo have all brought her immediate happiness. The way they help transform her and make her into another person, a person not alone - helps her realize who she really wants to be. Then one day, her imaginative characters on paper, aren't so imaginative anymore and she is being accused of being among one of the paranormal. That's crazy, right? Only - is it? After a whirlwind of events, Alexandra and her guys are whisked away during a fight for their life to Dark Imaginarium Academy.
Now thrusted into this whole new realm, something she's only ever read about - she is discovering she is more than she ever thought possible. Only what is she exactly? Her guys - also new to this realty as they were nothing but characters she thought up one day - are told they are a type of demon. As they learn about both the human and paranormal worlds together, one thing hasn't changed and it is their love for Alexandra. Can this relationship be real?
When the ending comes, we finally get an answer on what Alexandra might be, only it seems to come at a cost. Will Alexandra have what it takes to get through the Academy, keep her relationships strong and survive this new world?
This book was great. Such an amazing, original storyline in a paranormal world. I couldn't help but keep turning the pages. I am very much looking forward to book 2. Also, I had started with Alina's story first and I loved the crossover. It all makes more sense now. haha. This author has a fantastic way of hooking you in a story and letting you drift away, I love it!!!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Med/Slow Burn
*Multiple First person POV
*Ends on cliffhanger
This book was not what I was expecting. This is only my second book by RL Caulder and I had no idea the series even intersected like this! I love it.
This is Alexandra's story. Tired and alone, her only escape is her writing. Her characters from a young age, Lucien, Elwin and Kylo have all brought her immediate happiness. The way they help transform her and make her into another person, a person not alone - helps her realize who she really wants to be. Then one day, her imaginative characters on paper, aren't so imaginative anymore and she is being accused of being among one of the paranormal. That's crazy, right? Only - is it? After a whirlwind of events, Alexandra and her guys are whisked away during a fight for their life to Dark Imaginarium Academy.
Now thrusted into this whole new realm, something she's only ever read about - she is discovering she is more than she ever thought possible. Only what is she exactly? Her guys - also new to this realty as they were nothing but characters she thought up one day - are told they are a type of demon. As they learn about both the human and paranormal worlds together, one thing hasn't changed and it is their love for Alexandra. Can this relationship be real?
When the ending comes, we finally get an answer on what Alexandra might be, only it seems to come at a cost. Will Alexandra have what it takes to get through the Academy, keep her relationships strong and survive this new world?
This book was great. Such an amazing, original storyline in a paranormal world. I couldn't help but keep turning the pages. I am very much looking forward to book 2. Also, I had started with Alina's story first and I loved the crossover. It all makes more sense now. haha. This author has a fantastic way of hooking you in a story and letting you drift away, I love it!!!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Med/Slow Burn
*Multiple First person POV
*Ends on cliffhanger
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