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Red Syndrome

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THE SURVIVOR

DEATH TOUCHED ME. SHE SAVORED ME AND POSSESSED ME.
I’M FOREVER MARKED AND HER STAIN IS IMPRINTED IN MY BLOOD, JUST AS MY DARK SIDE IS IMPRINTED UPON MY SOUL.
MY CARNAL APPETITE IS TRYING TO SWALLOW ME IN ITS ABYSS OF PERVERSION BUT I’M FIGHTING. I’M FIGHTING EVERY DAY NOT TO SINK INTO THAT CHASM.
THE EXECUTIONER OPENED THE GATE, AND FOR ALL THAT I HATE HIM, I CAN’T STOP LOVING HIM.
I’M ADDICTED TO HIM AND WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO RETURN TO HIM, EVEN IF IT MEANS PLAYING A TWISTED GAME WITH A NEW PLAYER.
WILL I EVER FIND MY EXECUTIONER AGAIN?

THE EXECUTIONER

I’M A MASTER MANIPULATOR.
IT’S MY JOB AND MY NATURE.
I’M A DELUSIONAL BEAST THAT PULLS THE THREADS IN THE MINDS OF THOSE AROUND ME.
I HAVE TO SAVE HER FROM DANGER AND FROM DEATH, AND I’LL ONLY BE ABLE TO DO THAT BY MAKING HER IMMORTAL IN HER OWN MIND.
BUT SHE WILL HAVE TO FINALLY ACCEPT HER DARK SOUL FIRST.
THERE MUST BE SUFFERING AND PAIN IF YOU WANT TO REACH OBSESSIVE AND ETERNAL LOVE.
I’LL WAIT FOR HER, AND WHEN SHE’S READY, IN THIS LIFE OR ANOTHER, I’LL COME BACK FOR ETERNITY.
Ivy’s journey becomes a twisted game, spiraling and unfolding on an even darker and more insane downfall. The burning passion that bound her to Killian coils into a vortex of danger and sacrifice, where the line between love and destruction fades away, causing the one to devour the other in an infinite loop.
In Red Syndrome, sequel of the Syndrome's Duet, Ivy must confront not only her past demons and new ones who have been summoned, but also those of Killian. Their relationship, steeped in blood and secrets, reaches new depths, revealing truths that could destroy them both.
As the shadows grow darker, Ivy discovers how far she can be pushed by love and hate. By desire and sorrow. By temptation and remorse. Salvation to her through self seems a mirage, and every step towards redemption might be her last. Above all when a new player enters the game, Ryker, blurring the lines and snaking into Ivy's head and heart.
The climax bursting with emotions and twists are the fireworks to an expected ending, will leave you breathless.
But be aware: nothing is as it seems.

325 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2024

21 people are currently reading
466 people want to read

About the author

Faith Raven

4 books106 followers

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5 stars
50 (41%)
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34 (28%)
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22 (18%)
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9 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for sinfulsilver_reads.
31 reviews3 followers
September 17, 2024
Where do I start?

I also cried on the first chapter, felt like everything was shattering but in Killian I trusted and he did Not disappoint that was until he fucked up, like, you did all of that and end up doing That like whyy?? But I kept going and hoping that the audacity of this man would find some sense, but god it got worst but at least we got Ryker right? 👀👀. I feel like Ryker was what she Needed but Killian was her destiny

This book was a rollercoaster and I rode it like a Champ.

Overall it was 5⭐️, I was very much engaged with the story and it kept me wanting more

And as for the Spicy characters??? NO COMMENT, you’re gonna have to go and find out for yourself 😂, but overall for me it was 5 🌶️

Ps: PLEASE READ YOUR TRIGGERS WARNINGS
Profile Image for Readingwithdesi .
1,296 reviews39 followers
September 18, 2024
Coming September 30th you’re going to want to add this to your TBR!! Gosh this book! I’ve never said WHAT??? so many times! I DEVOURED this book and I love these characters! I’m so honored to have read this as an arc! Thank you faith! This book is the second in the duet and it follows a cliffy from book 1 BLACK SYNDROME, it’s just as spicy and dark as the first! I love Killian and IVY whew girl she went through it!!!



"I can't resist any longer, desire and despair blend, pulling me into an abyss of pleasure and pain."

Ivy’s journey becomes a twisted game, spiraling and unfolding on an even darker and more insane downfall. The burning passion that bound her to Killian coils into a vortex of danger and sacrifice, where the line between love and destruction fades away, causing the one to devour the other in an infinite loop.

In Red Syndrome, sequel of the Syndrome's Duet, Ivy must confront not only her past demons and new ones who have been summoned, but also those of Killian. Their relationship, steeped in blood and secrets, reaches new depths, revealing truths that could destroy them both.

As the shadows grow darker, Ivy discovers how far she can be pushed by love and hate. By desire and sorrow. By temptation and remorse. Salvation to her through self seems a mirage, and every step towards redemption might be her last. Above all when a new player enters the game, Ryker, blurring the lines and snaking into Ivy's head and heart.

The climax bursting with emotions and twists are the fireworks to an expected ending, will leave you breathless.

But be aware: nothing is as it seems.

This is the second volume of a duology. It's a dark romance dealing with topics that may disturb some readers. It's advised to read the trigger warning list at the beginning of the book before proceeding with the reading.
Profile Image for Midnight Fantasy Fables.
27 reviews5 followers
September 30, 2024
Red Syndrome, the intense sequel to Black Syndrome, takes Ivy’s journey to even darker and more twisted depths. Her passionate yet dangerous relationship with Killian is pushed to its breaking point as new threats and demons emerge. I found myself torn between the intense love Ivy shares with Killian, which is steeped in secrets and blood, and the magnetic pull of Ryker, a morally grey character who brings a new dimension to Ivy’s emotional turmoil.

Initially, the love triangle made me uneasy—it felt like Ivy’s attraction to Ryker was a betrayal to Killian. But as the story unfolded, I couldn’t help but fall for Ryker too, questioning who was truly the right match for Ivy. Both men are complex, but Ryker’s dark charm and emotional depth made me think he might be a better fit. Then, hearing Killian’s POV reminded me of his unwavering devotion to Ivy, which made me fall for him all over again.

The emotional twists and the intense spice were perfectly executed, keeping me hooked until the very end. Ultimately, I feel Ivy ended up with the right person, and the journey to that decision was absolutely worth it.
Profile Image for LaVana Faustman.
23 reviews23 followers
September 22, 2024
This book was amazing!!! Definitely had me feeling all the emotions and had me rethinking which man I actually wanted for Ivy!🫣🥰🖤 A really great dark romance read!
Profile Image for Kenzi.
109 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2024
Such a good plot! i loved this book more than the first one i have to say... i want to read more of Ryker !! the character development and the plot twists are so good!
Profile Image for anne.
20 reviews1 follower
November 18, 2024
I was very excited to continue Killian & Ivy's story with this second volume and now after actually finishing it, I can say that I'm absolutely speechless.

Reading 'Black Syndrome' as the first volume of this duet has introduced me to Faith's beautiful writing and has began my journey with her creativity. Ever since finishing this first part of the story, I had been excitedly anticipating to get my hands on the continuation of it - Red Syndrome.
Which, thank you so much once again Faith for sending me the beautiful PR box with this book and with all the goodies, I'm still devouring the beautiful smell of the perfume ahhhh! 😍 Such an honor for this & to be able to work with you, thank you so much author!


And as for the book...this book extendes your imagination beyond limits.
There's a new character that has his first appearance in this part and honestly, I've been completely sold on this one. As much as Killian has been an interesting lead since book one, I must say that Ryker does add a lot with his aura and mysterious personality.
It makes you want to get to know him more. Because certainly after the glimpses we had gotten of his story in Red Syndrome, it is not enough. We need more! You simply just want more. And I might say, that Ryker has made it for me, for him to remark in my memory, and if by any chance there would be more to his story with another book, I'd be so there for it.
The very brief epilogue that we had gotten with his pov has been a nice little touch, giving us little hints that perhaps there's more to his story. And I'm so waiting for it. This was an amazing little detail.


To sum up my final thoughts about Red Syndrome, I need to first compliment Faith's amazing writing, because ever since the first volume of this duet, I've been stunned and completely pulled into this woman's amazing writing skills. Reading these two books has been a whole ride. The descriptive level of the scenes is always leaving me stunned and craving for more. She puts it all into every single detail, which makes the sceneries believable and realistic and your mind just allows you to visualize these scenes so clearly in your head. This is what I admire a lot. It is beyond amazing. So of course, I needed to compliment the amazing writing and wording once again, it has been just as amazing as in the first book, and I already can't wait to be able to read another book from her 😍
We had the chance to experience a lot of different emotions in this volume, the first 100 pages made me upset and melancholic. Then as the story follows by, we had started to dive further more towards Ryker's character and his relation with Ivy, and these two...oh, these two were a lot. A lot. While loving Killian & Ivy, I'd have lied if I had denied that Ivy's relation with Ryker hadn't kept me on the edge of my seat. Damn. That was quite something. This probably adds a lot knowing that Ryker as a character has began to interest me a lot and I'm intrigued by him. Which also made me happy to see the little epilogue with him, it was so unexpected but such a nice little surprise! It made me squeak a little 😅


The last 100 pages till the end & the final epilogue...now that was a whole rollercoaster of emotions. Amount of details, scenery so intense, it keeps you in the moment so clearly and intensely, completely speechless here! That extended epilogue, wow, wow! That was certainly the plot twist that I had not expected and had been a very - very nice surprise for a reader.
After finishing this book this afternoon, I'm sitting here beyond speechless just trying to process it all right now. Thoughts and so many different emotions, and this is all thanks to Faith's amazing writing. You did it again, Faith.
Absolutely amazing!


- Have to as well point out the beautiful cover of this book! Both Black & Red Syndrome happen to have such beautiful covers, I've been in love with them ever since lying my eyes on these for the very first time 😍
So if you can, get the physical copies of these books for your shelf as fast as you can! They're beautiful and worth of owning these copies for yourself.


- The little additional touch of Ryker's perfume for this book? So blessed 🥰😌 so yummy!!!
Faith is surely treating us right!!!


And now we just have to stay tuned and wait for another book to be released. I'll be here waiting.
Certainly worth the wait 🤭
Profile Image for Dark.Romance.Roz.
69 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2024
I had the honour of reading this as an arc read, and I loved every second of it
This is book two in a duet

Ivy and Killian have both been shot by KGB Agents, and Killian operates on Ivy and saves her life, but makes a very difficult decision in that moment, to walk away from her so she can’t get hurt again, breaking both of their hearts.
He sends her off to his cabin in the Swiss Alps with a bodyguard, Ryker, to keep her safe, and to help her start her new life without him.
Over the next couple of months Ivy is inconsolable over Killian’s behaviour, but slowly Ryker starts to bring her out of her shell, in more ways than one 🥵
Their feelings develop, but what Ivy doesn’t know is that Killian is telling Ryker to act on it, to bring out the dark side of Ivy, so she can realise who she really is, and it works like a charm. One thing that Lillian didn’t expect is for Ryker to catch feeling for her and turn it into a competition.
Danger is never very far away though, and when she’s attacked, she shows a side that no one has seen before and it’s magnificent

The storyline is fantastic and had me on the edge of my seat from page one. There are several plot twists in this book, which I really didn’t see coming, and were incredible. The spice was 🥵🥵 and the emotions hit me all the way through the book

If you love dark romance, dark and delicious MMC’s and feisty and fierce FMC’s then this duet is definitely for you 🖤🖤🖤
Profile Image for Steffi tiktok: readnsiplibrary.
80 reviews
September 26, 2024
Take some Thrill, a big bag full of emotions and lot’s of dark and passionate romance! Voila!

First of all:
You had me at the 2 sides long triggerwarning list!

The story starts off very strong, which i loved!
You are straight in the story line and get thrilled from the begining.

A lot of deep feelings are experienced and after the first Plottwist i was like wtf?!
The Confusion was real!

I loved that there’s No unnessessary information in this book.

Ryker is beyond hot!
And The spicy billiard scene?! :o wow!

It had So many plottwists, it made me sit there with an open mouth hahah

Heartbreak, frustration, hope and confusion are emotions you get through reading this masterpeace!

All in all i loved that the book had enough of everything! Action, Dark Romance, Emotions, Plottwist!

A great work of the brilliant faith raven !

4,5 ✨
Profile Image for ChaFay Tucker.
Author 7 books19 followers
September 8, 2024
I’ve been waiting my whole life for this. I thank the author for giving me the opportunity to be an arc reader for this book. It was truly an honor. Now let’s dive in to this book and when I say, dive in, I mean it because holy moly. I went through so many conflicted emotions and feelings. Killian is dangerous and hot but so is the new player, Ryker. They are both so delicious that you don’t know who you want more. And Ivy? Ivy goes through it is all I have to say but phew girl. 🥵She has done such a good job with all these characters that they will live in my head rent free for all eternity. This book will have you screaming, gasping, giggling and kicking your feet. My most repeatable words were, “oh my god” and “I can’t.” I DEVOURED this book in one day.
Profile Image for paige.
33 reviews
September 21, 2024
I absolutely loved red syndrome, this addictive dark sequel follows Ivy and killians love story after the first book black syndrome. Make sure to read that first to understand how they came together.

Red syndrome jumps straight in from where black syndrome ends. Pulling you further into ivy and killian’s obsession with each other. The new character Ryker brings an unexpected twist and had me questioning where this story would go. (In a good way)

I was not disappointed! The danger, love, spice, manipulation, twists, obsession and emotion in this book was mwa! Chefs kiss!

If you love dark romance then I would definitely give this series a read.
Profile Image for Bookz4Hollz1225.
394 reviews
September 24, 2024
This is the second book in the duet. At the beginning I hated Killian for leaving Ivy! Then Ryker can along and I loved him and all he does for Ivy! I love the 2 men character in this book for different reasons. It took me until 87% to forgive Killian for all the shit he put Ivy through. This book is so twisted and dark. I get annoyed by Ivy but I love Kinky Ivy! When Killian did what he did I personally wanted to hunt him down. When he fixed everything at the end I was happy! I will say I’m so excited for a book about Ryker. He is still a mystery! This is definitely a must read! The spice is out of control! Check your Trigger warnings!
Profile Image for Lila Reads.
10 reviews1 follower
October 30, 2024
I loved this book. There were times that I hated the fmc but it didn't stop me from RACING to the end of the book.

The first book (Black Syndrome) did not prepare me for the anguish that this book gave. I felt so many emotions reading through Red Syndrome. I loved it and couldn't stop reading!

The epilogue gave me the ending the main characters deserved and I was SO satisfied with the ending.

Highly, highly recommend if you read the first book and loved it.

Also highly recommend both books if you love captivity romance, close proximity and enemies to lovers as these books cover these tropes heavily!
Profile Image for Rosalyn Butler.
133 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2024
Holy moly this book !!! It’s a dark romance spicy book and boy is it ever good !
It follows killian and ivy and now Ryker!
Killian try’s to protect ivy by hiding her at like a safe house from the people looking for her. That’s where she meets Ryker! Killian stops all contact with ivy to try to keep her safe !! And then that’s when Ryker try to make her forget about him !!
This is the second book in the series and it had me just as captivated the hole time it’s definitely a dark spicy romance that your not gonna wanna miss !!
Profile Image for Danielle Wilmer.
Author 1 book3 followers
October 1, 2024
The sequel to Black Syndrome takes you on the continuing journey of the FMC Ivy. It takes off where the cliffhanger left us in the first book. It’s an intense roller coaster of emotions that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. The twists and turns make you question your loyalties…who is the one for Ivy? Killian or Ryker? In the end I think Ivy chose the right man. The journey to that decision however brought out the dark side of Ivy. The spice is a 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ ! Can’t wait to read more about Ryker!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nicole McColl.
16 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! To me, it was so much better than the first one & the first one was GREAT! I really liked the new fellow who entered the chat & was SO TEAM RYKER! Dont get me wrong I liked Killian but there was just something mysterious about Ryker that had me intrigued! The book had tasteful spice & there was plenty of it! The plot was plotting with the little bird escaping and bringing back an unexpected and unwanted visitor! If this is on your list PICK IT UP!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jess_feelzinsane .
346 reviews10 followers
September 30, 2024
The way this book started out and Killian had to literally save Ivy's life! Then, to just leave her and have Ryker take care of her.. had me falling for him!! I lowkey wanted them too together! I loved how Ivy had a side to her that's dark just like the man she's with! This book had my attention from page one!! Can't wait to read the other ones that come out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
15 reviews
October 20, 2024
What can i say?! This will literally have you on the edge of your seat …i cried reading this … then i was mad at myself for kinda wanting ryker to get his wish … but then sad because killian … oh killian … but then you will be thinking ivy you little minx!!! So many emotions going through this but oh so good!!!
Profile Image for ANGELA.
168 reviews10 followers
September 8, 2024
As the story continues, we learn more about Killians life. Ivy is still impulsive, but she learns from her mistakes. This is a dark romance with triggers, so read before diving in. The story follows Ivy and Killian. Killian feels he needs to leave Ivy to keep her safe. Insert Ryker and add the love triangle. This is not your average love story. It ends on a HEA, and it was a great story. I was lucky to receive this book as an ARC. So if dark morally black MMC are your type, then Killian is for you. But again, proceed with caution ⚠️ it's spicy and wild!!
Profile Image for Monika Zilli.
24 reviews2 followers
September 11, 2024
I love this so much! I even loved it more than the first book! It really was 10/10! amazing ! i was really shocked when Killian did what he did at first but then Ryker came. The whole story was so well written and the characters were so interesting, loved everything about it!
Profile Image for Brit.Readz.
372 reviews7 followers
December 13, 2024
I’m so excited this book was exactly what we needed.

I LOVE killian but…. What if there was someone else..?

You HAVE to read this duet it’s amazing! Please take the time to get these two books and do yourself a favor. A million stars!
Profile Image for Mia’s book corner.
28 reviews
September 25, 2024
I had the privilege of reading this as an arc for faith for a honest review 🥰

What can I say?! Other than it is a 5 ⭐️ read 😍

I had my mind going a mile a minute in the beginning and heartbroken the next.. then confused/conflicted about which mmc I preferred Killian or Ryker 😬 as they are both yummy 🤤 then the love I have for ivy and her confidence we love a confident queen 😌 then the spicy 🥵 decided to ramp it up which was just delicious!
I love how faith wrote the mmcs and fmc, the story line and the plot, I hated having my heart broke in the beginning 😭 (I forgive you faith 😜) I loved learning more about all their backgrounds! I’m sad it’s over 😭 but I can not wait for Rykers story to be told 😈😈

Faith you out did yourself with this duet! I can’t wait to read more of your work 💕💕 thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this masterpiece 🖤
Profile Image for ryn  P.
5 reviews
September 21, 2024
The book was exciting, and thrilling. You must read the first one before you read this one but the whole book had me smiling swinging my feet in the air. The whole time I was waiting for a 3 some with Ryker and Killian but there both too dominant for that unfortunately. But I loved the way she added Ryker to this duet he was almost as breath taking as Killian. I want to know more about Ryker and what he puts down if you know what I mean 😅
Profile Image for Tehmeena.
152 reviews7 followers
September 30, 2024
~I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to arc review~

Disclaimer: a long, long arc review. And it's condensed from my original review, too.

⚠️ CONTENT WARNING. PLEASE, CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS ⚠️

❤️🕊️ Tropes;
❤️🕊️ Dark Romance
❤️🕊️ Mafia
❤️🕊️ Sassy/Strong FMC
❤️🕊️ Morally Grey MMCs
❤️🕊️ Unhinged MMCs
❤️🕊️ Forced Proximity
❤️🕊️ Spicy/Steamy
❤️🕊️ Possessive MMCs
❤️🕊️ Love Triangle(sorta)
❤️🕊️ No Cliff-hanger
❤️🕊️ HEA

🩶~A divinely hellish love~🩶


Killian, when I catch you, Killian-!

🩷~I bury my face in his chest, crying my soul onto his shirt, staining it forever. “Killian, don't leave me. P- please, don't do this to me,” I plead between ragged breaths.🩷


🩶~But before I can unfold my raging, grieving emotions onto him, he grabs both my wrists and pulls my fingers away from him. “Goodbye, my lovely little bird.” He pierces me one last time with his icy eyes, then turns with a swift and leaves the car.~🩶


The story continues straight after how the prequel leaves you hanging with Ivy and Killian being ambushed. Ivy is literally teetering between life and death and Killian be making threats of punishment already? My mans, calm down, my girl is bleeding from a bullet wound!

You're probably thinking, how dare you make light of this heart-wrenching story? Yes, yes, I am. 'Cause if I don't then I'm going to sob for their love going through so much agony I cannot process. I've cried enough, people. My heart is still aching from the heart-break, so leave me alone! Not yet though, wait! After reading my review, thanks, love. If I don't add a bit of humour I won't be able to see the laptop screen as I rant because my eyesight will blur over with TEARS. So forgive me if I sound a little out of sorts.

Now. Review. Without spoilers *Inhalation of shaky breath*... (I can't figure out how to add gifs in this ish so please excuse my old ass failing)...

Being the unhinged and morally grey MMC man Killian is, he abandons her when she needs him the most. In his mind he needs to do this to keep her safe and protected since he keeps putting her in danger simply by having her by his side. It's an eye-opening moment for him (including myself, because wtf Killian?) Don't leave my girl hanging like that! After putting her through so much pain, breaking down her walls and boundaries, making her fall intensely in love with him, he pulls this stunt? It breaks my heart for her. Now she feels abandoned all over again. The way I'm in anguish for her. He sends her away with some 'bodyguard/protector.'

💚~“Miss Lane, can you walk? Do you want me to pick you up?” he asks. His green eyes glow, something dangerous lurks beneath them and my sixth sense smells darkness coming from him, as well as his delicious scent of musk and sandalwood. “No, I can walk,” I murmur in a faint voice. “Take my arm, I'll help you.” He offers me his forearm.~💚


Incoming, the green eyed Ryker. I like that name, and his eyes (I haven't seen them for real, but I know they be pretty AF). ANYWAY. MY HEART IS IN PIECES, ARE YOU HAPPY, MADAM RAVEN? (Because I am, I'm just being dramatic) I thought the  prequel  left me in pieces, but, hells oh no. This one  ripped it out, leaving me gasping for more. This book is exactly MY type of book. Devastating, dark, depraved.

I honestly don't have anything negative to say. It was written so well and kept my attention from the first page, the world building was very well done and I could imagine everything in my mind's eye like a movie - great descriptions. Sometimes I caught myself pausing and stare at the invisible camera in my room to give my reactions before diving straight back in.

Did I say, sometimes? I lied. 'Tis a regular-degular thing for me. Does anyone else do this? I mean, I can't share what I'm reading with my family, are you mad? Me, reading dark romance, ranting to them about it? Pff. Never. So what can I do other than rant in my reviews to you all? I'm sorry, but it is how I do things and I hope you like it. If not, that's fine also, too. I'm not all professional and amazing at translating my thoughts into words like all the other arc reviews I envy/love, so I appreciate you sticking with me. I kinda digress one again.

Alrighty, on a more serious note, this is easily one of my favourite books of 2024. I've been waiting for so long, on the edge of my seat, and I want to thank Faith Ravens for choosing me as one of her arc readers. It's been an absolute honour. If my review is too all over the place, please excuse me, I'm feeling too many things at the moment. If I don't write them down as I feel now, I'll forget everything. 

This book is everything and more. It exceeded my expectations. There are action scenes, romance, spice, and a depth of darkness that rivals black holes. Agony that fills you with dread as well as scintillating pleasure that makes you - ahem, me - question "why am I single again?" Betrayal that at first may feel like you're imagining it all, that it doesn't hurt that much and you can take it, but then the knife twists causing your heart to explode. Yep. Perfection.

Killian's character definitely evolves into something even more complex and dark, but in a good way really because I'm drooling. He's so alluring, caring in his own unhinged way that you can't help but feel how much he loves Ivy. He sends her away though, breaking her heart and telling her she can't truly love him for him. All to protect her? Yes, he's cold, domineering and devilish sometimes, but he'll also lay down his life for the woman he loves desperately. And that, my dear readers, is fucking attractive. Don't question my life choices right now. 

Ivy, my beautiful babe, one of my favourite FMCs ever, is such a sassy girl. She's strong, says what's on her mind and knows what she wants. Her character also grows into something you can relate to, might I dare say? Erm. Yes, no? I won't divulge into why I can relate, let's silently love past that. Now, it's not easy to stand up for yourself in certain situations or to make the most of what you have, but she does, and that takes strength. She shows resilience and belief in herself. All she's been through from the first book to now? Hell to the no, I'd be the first one to give up. But I love how much she's bloomed into the woman she is at the end of this book - a complete badass!

Next, we get Ryker, and carrying his own past trauma that he's so good at hiding under his hot, demonic self. He's a new character making an entry and can just I say...I am obsessed. With pretty green eyes and build sculpted like a Greek god in charge of protecting Ivy for the next three months with a certain - how do I say this? Yes, an aura that excludes sexual tension and darkness beyond your wildest dreams. *Heavy breathing* So while Ivy's questioning his authority and demands answers about Killian, resentful that she's housebound and has to be babysat, I end up liking him from the sheer fact that he's got green eyes - shallow, I know, leave me be. That's not to say that she doesn't feel some kind of electricity between herself and him either, some tension, writhing darkness and crackling tension. Ah. So good. 

🩷~“Who are you, then, Ryker?” I huff, furrowing my brows in confusion. His devilish voice makes me tremble as he says, “Your best dream or your worst nightmare.”~💚


He later proves me right for liking him so much from how much he takes care of Ivy in his own way. He is a darkly charismatic man in his own way with a certain allure different yet similar to Killian, captivating and gentle on rare occasions when he needs to be. He's more flirty, lasciviously decadent and twisted and cheeky. You can feel the intensity of his self-control brewing inside him at times, veiling that dark beast chained to the deepest recesses in his carefully locked mind? Yeah. It wants to come out because Ivy intrigues him.

💚~“Look who we’ve got here… I’m surprised you didn’t try to force your way into my room before, little angel.” Ryker’s chilling voice startles a blood- curdling scream from me as I jump around to face him.

“Let’s see, Ivy. What should I do with you now?” His deep voice is pure venom, but his lascivious smile and that disturbing spark in his eyes gives him a psychotic look.~
💚


In comparison to Killian's openly dangerous tendencies, letting it come out to play whenever he so chooses, Riker gave me more of a 'silent-but-deadly' vibe because when he unleashes that unhinged side of him I get chills. And yes, total serpent vibes, I agree with the book! There is a certain aspect to his character that leaves me so fucking hooked onto him. Even Ivy can sense he's effortlessly dominating, stirring something deep within her. And what makes it fun is that he knows that, too and is able to take his time to use it to his advantage. *Shivers* A man that shows restraint is a bright green flag in my eyes, despite him owning several smaller...bright red flags. Oh, my gosh. Riker is my new drug along with Killian, yes. Secretive, wicked, and intimidating. Tick, tick, and tick.

After being taken to Ryker's secret hideout, Ivy reads the letter Killian left her with, explaining to her that she has to forget and move on? After all of that? Why, Killian? Apparently he is still on the run from the Russian Mafia after him, but it reassures him the fact that at least the woman he loves is safely tucked away from the prying world. Falling into a deep depression she slowly comes to terms with it at least on surface level. Will she be able to survive without him? 

🩷~I'm lost. I'm torn apart. I'm nothing~ Ivy.🩷


One day, she goes on a little clandestine hunt to find out what's Ryker hiding in his bedroom, which is off limits to her. Where is Ryker from really? How do the red rooms connect with him? Where is Killian and will he ever return? What she discovers is nothing like she imagines; he is shrouded in mystery, an aura of danger. Hence in order to find out who he is and what he's hiding from her she plans to seduce him to get information about where precisely Killian is. Unfortunately for my girl Ivy - and excitingly for me - she discovers something sinister yet baffling once inside his room and she gets caught. The tension, girl, the tension.

What happens if she manages to seduce him, whose inner beast is already bristling to show her exactly how dangerous he can be? Will she be able to differentiate between choosing her past or present, or will the blurred lines be too slippery to even grasp in her hands? How will she face herself after betraying Killian? Will she learn from her mistakes? Is Ryker going to let her go? Find out at the expected release of this book on September 30, 2024. You will not wanna miss this, trust me, my hands are trembling as I type my haphazard thoughts. You NEED to experience Ryker as well. He is as unhinged and crazy as Killian is.

You know what? Sometimes I can annoy myself all by myself, I don't need a real life man for that, but I do want my very own Ryker please, and the way I flew back and forth between the two MMCs was embarrassing. But oh so fun and that's what matters to people. And who says I gotta choose either? Gimme both. They're scrumptious in their own ways!

Oh, some more things I liked; how the author uses "chain/chained" to show each other's eyes connecting? This was something so refreshing/new. And "ruby essence" instead of just "blood."

~...and chain his eyes with mine.~


I also appreciate the description of green eyes as "leafy eyes" instead of the age old, well and used, "emerald eyes."

~...with an inferno in his eyes leafy eyes.~


It's the little things that matter and makes written work even more special. It shows the effort and depth that has gone into it. I LOVE descriptions that work well and are unique.

There were just two things I did not like and please don't hold it against me. Firstly...the "Kinky Ivy" thing. I found it cringe. I get where the author was going with this, like an alter ego for the MMC to feel powerful, in control and letting her own dark side run free etc, etc...But Kinky Ivy? Forgive me. Not something that I liked, but it didn't hinder my intense love for the book one bit. And secondly, Ryker is alone. He can have me!. And deducing from my very infatuated rants about him...I think he is my fave. Just 1% above Killian.

Final thoughts: I enjoyed myself immensely, I laughed, cried, spun in a whirlwind of emotions, pined for both of hot, yummy fictional men and I'm still left gasping for more. This was almost a drug induced experience and I cannot stop praising it. The beginning made me get teary-eyed and emotional for Ivy. Talk about a damn rollercoaster! Oh. My. Lordt. The climax, the overwhelming emotions and revelations that came with it? Everything was brilliantly torn apart in the first story and perfectly brought back together in this book. Oh, and I almost forgot the spicy scenes - diabolical, I know! Let me grab my inhaler. They were delicious. SIMPLY ADDICTIVE. I'm convinced it was laced with morphine because I feel like I'm high. High on RYKER D-! The snooker table scene? And the lift/elevator scene? Teaching her how to shoot scene? AND THE EVERYTHING ELSE SCENE WITH THE SPICE? Like everything is so good.

Faith Ravens, the way you write is darkly addictive poetry to me.*

And without a doubt, nothing is as it seems.
__________
I got an extra goodie with the Arc, callled "Locked Inside" (coming soon): Oh. My. God. WHAT?! I CANNOT WAIT TO KNOW MORE! Thank you, thank you!

❤️🕊️ Cover: ✨✨✨✨✨
❤️🕊️ Heat: ️‍🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
❤️🕊️ Passion: 💋💋💋💋
❤️🕊️ Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
❤️🕊️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️🕊️ Darkness: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
❤️🕊️ FMC Ivy: 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
❤️🕊️ MMC Ryker: 💚💚💚💚💚
❤️🕊️ MMS Killian: 🩶🩶🩶🩶🩶
❤️🕊️ Character Development: 👍👍👍👍👍
❤️🕊️ World Building: 🌍🌏🌍🌏🌏
❤️🕊️ Would I recommend? Hell, yes!
❤️🕊️ Overall Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

❤️🕊️ Arc Received: Epug/Kindle
❤️🕊️ Pages: 326.
❤️🕊️ Chapters: 40, including the epilogue and an extended epilogue. Plus a little extra goodie for what's coming soon: Locked Inside!
❤️🕊️ Genre: Fiction, dark romance.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
129 reviews
October 4, 2024
This book broke me and i loved it!! I love Killian and Ivy, but its starts off breaking your heart, then continues to confuse and excite you, and ends with you giggling. I devoured this and can't wait for more 🫶💜 Be ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, and check those triggers 😘
Profile Image for April Reads.
14 reviews5 followers
September 28, 2024
I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC, and I am still recovering from the rollercoaster of emotions. If you know me, you KNOW I’m completely OBSESSED with this duet. "Black Syndrome" (the first book) was my Roman Empire this year, and that cliffhanger? It wrecked me. Luckily, book two picks up right where we left off, and the ride only gets wilder.

Like I mentioned in my first review, the author’s writing is dangerously addictive. You pick up the book, and before you know it, hours have flown by. Faith Raven’s ability to drag you into this dark, twisted, and passionate world is unmatched.

First off, I need to admit something: I CRIED. A LOT. Killian continues to be one of the most complex, layered, morally grey characters I’ve ever encountered. He’s so unpredictable that I spent half the book screaming at him, and the other half falling head over heels again. Just when I thought I could finally forgive him... BAM, he went and shattered my trust all over again. 😅 I wanted to hate him, but then, just like Ivy, I couldn’t resist him. And when I finally did forgive him? Let’s just say, I forgave him with my whole heart and soul.

Now, we need to talk about this “love triangle” situation. Yes, I’m putting that in air quotes because, deep down, we all know Killian is Ivy’s true love. But Ryker... oh, Ryker. There’s definitely some serious tension going on, and it involves both Killian and Ryker (but I’m not spilling the tea on that twist 😉).

Speaking of Ryker—OMG. Where do I even begin? He’s got that perfect “hot bodyguard with a secret soft side” vibe, and I’m here for it. He’s charming, dangerously attractive, and those green eyes? 🔥 Let’s just say I would not mind being in Ivy’s shoes for a day. Ryker is everything, and honestly, Faith Raven, can we PLEASE get a standalone for him? I’ll be the first in line, holding my Kindle and a cup of coffee, ready to devour his story.

Speaking of hot, the SPICE in this book? It’s next-level. 🌶🔥 If you thought book one was spicy, you’re not ready for this. The chemistry between Killian and Ivy is electric—there’s so much tension, passion, and raw intensity. One scene in particular is going to live rent-free in your mind forever. The steam between them is the perfect blend of desire and danger, keeping you hooked on every page.

Ivy’s character growth in this book is incredible. I love how she finally confronts her past and the darkness that’s been haunting her. She’s strong, fierce, and not afraid to speak her mind, but at the same time, she’s still human. She made some choices that had me ready to shake her, but I totally understood why. She’s just a girl navigating an impossible situation, and her journey is a beautiful mix of pain, pleasure, sacrifice, and, ultimately, self-discovery.

The plot twists in this book had me SCREAMING. Literally. There were moments where I almost woke up the entire house because I was so shocked. Just when I thought I had it figured out, Faith Raven threw in another twist that blew my mind. Nothing is as it seems, and I promise you, you will not see these twists coming.

And one final note: Please, please read the trigger warnings before diving in. This book is even darker than the first (if that’s possible), so make sure you’re ready for it. There’s a lot to unpack, but every moment is worth it.

Rating: 4.7 🌟/5
Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 /5
Writing: ✨✨✨✨✨ /5
And yes, I’m still single, and I’m still holding out hope for Ryker. Faith Raven, you know what to do. 🥺💖
514 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2024
So this is the sequel to Red Syndrome. When I first started this read I was like okay. Everything is going to be fine for Killian and Ivy. Then he not only breaks Ivy's heart, but mine too! What was he thinking!? How could he do that to her? I was crying for her and felt so bad. Not only did he break her heart, but mine too! lol Then enter the hot bodyguard, Ryker. He knows he's not suppose to tell her anything or touch her. Not that she's interested in him. Her heart is broken. Of course Ryker is in touch with Killian. She starts to get clues about his whereabouts but hasn't put it together. Jillian killed me when he starts to have Ryker play a game with her. I did love Ryker, but not for Ivy. Although Ryker helps her see her dark side. Then she finally puts all the pieces together. I loved this book and can't wait to read Ryker's story. I'm sure he has tons he's hiding from.
Profile Image for Diana_thebooknerd.
386 reviews140 followers
November 12, 2024
Edit after a second read:
Emotionally I love it. I did cried and rage and have so much fun reading it. I questioned myself like 20 times . How in hell do I like something so unhinged?. Then again that's why I have a therapist. The characters are top notch . But Since my second read I took a ⭐️ out. Why you may ask? Well even tho I love the characters, and the plot was some what good and engaging. Something was fundamentally missing. Don't ask me what I have no idea. I've been think about it for days... and i just concluded that it was like reading the same plot of all the other Dark-romance out there. The same overhyped FMC and it felt like half the book was overly done smut( AMAZINGLY WRITTEN tho) but repetitive. I sill hold my word and this Duology is must read for dark romance fans. The author need more hype 🙌 she's really good and I can't wait to read more from here.

I cried? Yes. Yes I did. This books are really good. The plot was brilliant repetitivea little but brilliant. And the spice was top notch. The MMC is the morally grey we all need dark, twisted but kinda cinnamon rolly at the end. Faith Raven is such an underrated author. This books is definetly a must read!!!
Profile Image for Ruth Eve.
2 reviews
October 9, 2024
Wow. This book has me hooked from the first page of you like all the red flags of a morally grey MMC and a fiery FMC then this is the book for you. Dive into the whirlwind relationship of a possessive, obsessive unhinged MMC. I fell in love with Killian and Ivy. Be sure to red Black syndrome first.
The trigger warning list long so check it before reading.
Enjoy this steamy, spicy dark romance
Profile Image for Ali.
37 reviews125 followers
September 28, 2024
I was blessed to receive an arc for this and OMG did it live up to the hype. This book shocked me. A new character was unlocked and dare I say I fell in love with him more than Killian. Ryker was such an intense addition to the story. I appreciated the depth of the plot in this and the spice was INSANE. I absolutely loved this duet!!!
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