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Wicked Defenders #3

Hidden By His Side

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Ramiro has always been a dangerous man, with a violent past that makes him the last person anyone should be near. But a chance encounter on a bridge changes everything. From the moment he lays eyes on Summer, he knows he'll do anything to protect her, even from himself.

Summer is drawn to Ramiro despite the danger. When he offers her a job as his secretary, she can't resist. Their attraction grows, but she’s still healing from the trauma of her past. She doubts someone like her could ever be enough for him.

When his enemies draw closer, Ramiro pushes her away, desperate to keep her safe. Instead, it leaves her vulnerable and alone. Soon broken and pregnant, Summer seeks out the only man who made her feel safe.

Ramiro will do whatever it takes to protect his family, even if he never imagined himself as a father. But his enemies know about her now. Ramiro needs to show them no one can touch the woman he loves and live. 

Ramiro belongs to her, and he’s ready to prove it. She’s always been safest by his side, and that’s where she’ll stay, her and her baby.

Wicked Defenders is a series of mafia adjacent standalone romances, containing morally grey heroes that are sweet caregivers to those they love but don’t hold back on anyone else. These stories include dark themes and tragic scenes, but each book ends with an HEA.

455 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2024

50 people are currently reading
44 people want to read

About the author

Amber Warden

34 books52 followers
A former numbers cruncher, Amber Warden left the accounting world to write emotional and steamy contemporary romance instead.

Her main hope is for those reading to take away the feeling that they are more than enough for anyone.

When she's not writing, she's reading shoujo manga, playing otome games, and listening to her favorite J-rock music.

She'd love to hear from her readers:

amberwardenauthor@gmail.com

Instagram @amberwardenwrites

Facebook @amberwardenauthor

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5 stars
24 (38%)
4 stars
22 (35%)
3 stars
11 (17%)
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2 (3%)
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3 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,684 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
This is a Mafia Romantic Suspense, and this is the third book in the Wicked Defenders series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book, and I do think this series is better if read in order. I loved getting to know Ramiro more. His character showed up in the other books in this series. I really enjoyed reading this book, and I did not want to put this book down. I would have given this book five stars if the characters would just talk to each other. I really hate when characters just do not talk to each other. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
Profile Image for Emma (emjbookshelf).
988 reviews22 followers
December 4, 2024
Hidden by his side is the third book in the Wicked Defenders series, I finished it but didn't enjoy it all that much. Ramiro was a great character, how he'd been looking out for Summer for all these years never admiring his feelings for her.

Summer had a traumatic event happen and Ramiro saved her and took her under his wing. Summer also had feelings for Romiro but didn't think she was good enough and dated other people but not for long.

This could have been a great story, however Summer was just too annoying. She was whiney and instead of believing Romiro when he said she is all he needs, she constantly wanted reassurance and it got too much.

***Spoiler***
I didn't like it at the end when the baby arrived and they both said they loved their daughter but they would always come first to each other, sorry but this was a complete turn off.
Profile Image for Emily Honey.
10 reviews
December 19, 2024
The first 100 pages or so should be mandatory reading.

I have never cried so hard and identified so much with characters as I did with Summer and Ramiro. For the first time in a long time, a book had me staying up late to turn just one more page. What I appreciated about the story was how the author didn’t shy away from depicting the brutality that people can inflict on each other and how brutal strong emotions can be.

I must say, though, that this book was dark. Normally, I skim through the content warnings and just see them as a summary of all the kinks I can look forward to in the book. This was the only time I’d read a book where I felt like the warnings were justified. So be aware; this book is not for the faint of heart.

I have nothing bad to say about the start of the book, but I must say the ending did not follow through with the tone set from the start. In the beginning, the characters come across as very deep, very real people and towards the end they just become more and more of a caricature to me. I think this is due to most of the characters’ traits quickly being introduced to the reader so nothing more can be said by the end. Maybe shortening the book, a bit would have eliminated this, as the reader would have had less time to ‘get used to’ the characters. Another thing I would have liked to see more of is some insecurities in Ramiro. It is hinted several times that something is nagging him about his heritage, but this is not quite explored enough for me. I think it would have been a very beautiful element to the story if Ramiro was allowed a few weaker sides as this would have made Summer and him more equal. And it would have given Summer more opportunities to take care of him.

All in all, I loved this book, all the things I mentioned that I would have liked differently really aren’t enough for me not to recommend it. They are really all minor stuff that I just had to mention to make my review credible, because the only notes it took while reading were: A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. And that really isn’t enough for a full review.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Michelle Frater.
1,965 reviews21 followers
December 9, 2024
Amber has done it again and brought her unique brand of darkness to the third in the Wicked Defenders series. From the moment Ramiro saved Summer, he was captivated. For years, he’s dedicated himself to keeping her safe, but his protective instincts have evolved into something much deeper. But Ramiro was no hero and he lived in a dangerous world, so he kept pushing Summer away. On the flip side, Summer, burdened by her own trauma and insecurities, believes she was not good enough for him anyway and that his feelings were rooted in pity rather than love. But was she right? Ramiro was so torn. “He’d only ever given her pieces of himself, too scared she’d break if he gave her everything. What he’s allowed her to have had never been enough. She’d broken anyway.” When she reveals that she’s pregnant, Ramiro decides to do what he’s always wanted and moves Summer into his home, where he can keep her and her baby close. But love isn’t enough to bridge the chasm of self-doubt and fear. Once again, it’s that elusive communication that keeps them apart. Though they declare their love early on, neither believes it could possibly be true. Summer needs so much love; she’s constantly looking for reassurance. Their journey is messy, raw, and, at times, agonizing to watch—but that’s what makes it so real. And just when you think they’re on the brink of happiness, Ramiro’s worst nightmare comes to life, will he get to Summer in time? The story has triggers galore, so be sure you know what you’re getting into before attempting this book. It’s a long and winding road to Ramiro and Summer’s happy end, with plenty of pain and suffering along the way, but for those who can handle the emotional rollercoaster, the payoff is breathtaking. Amber masterfully crafts a long, winding road to a hard-earned happily-ever-after, one that’s equal parts painful and rewarding. Ramiro and Summer’s journey will break your heart and put it back together again. Fans of dark, gritty romance—this one’s for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Good Booking Girl.
497 reviews19 followers
November 25, 2024
Well, this was unexpected!

🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mafia adjacent Romance
🖤 Touch her and Die
🖤 Morally Grey
🖤 Possessive and Obsessive Man
🖤 I don't deserve you but I must have you
🖤 Super steamy

Check TW:
Abuse, Violence, Rape, Death, and Abortion

Ramiro rescued Summer 10 years ago, and he hasn't stopped trying to save her since.
Summer experienced a horrific SA which resulted in a pregnancy at 17 years old. She was about to end her life when Ramiro intervened and took her under his protective wing. She terminated the pregnancy and tried her best to move on with her life, but the trauma of the SA had huge repercussions. Over the last 10 years, their relationship evolved and he fell in love with her, but never took it a step further. It was obvious that she too loves him, but never felt that she was enough for him. She believed that she was a detriment to him; how could he possible love someone as broken and wounded and needy as her (was her belief).

He was scared to potentially ruin things between them. Keeping each other's feelings at arms length, Ramiro focussed on helping Summer heal: he gave her a job working for him, took care of her, arranged for her to live in a safe and secure apartment close by to him, he even went so far as to vet all her suitors to make sure they would not bring harm to her.

This is their story and their pursuit of a HEA. It is super steamy, intense and not without some major trauma. I really have been enjoying this series. The author spends their time in helping the reader feel as if they are right there with the characters.

Please review the TW/CW prior to reading this book, as it may not be suitable for some.
I was given a free ARC of this book, and this review is my opinion


Profile Image for Sammy.
247 reviews7 followers
December 24, 2024
3.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .5

Hidden by His Side was an intense read, but it didn’t totally knock it out of the park for me. Ramiro is that classic morally grey hero—dangerous, broody, but secretly soft for the people he loves. I liked his protective nature, but some of his decisions, like pushing Summer away, were frustrating. I get why he did it, but it felt a little dragged out.

Summer had her moments where I really rooted for her, especially after everything she went through, but there were times I wanted her to stand up to Ramiro more. The chemistry between them was good, but it didn’t blow me away. The tension kept building, but the payoff felt a bit rushed.

The cartel plot added some action and high stakes, which I liked, but parts of it felt a little predictable. That said, the ending wrapped up nicely. Ramiro stepping into his role as a dad was sweet, and his handling of the cartel was satisfying, though maybe a bit over the top.

Overall, it’s a solid read if you like morally grey heroes and mafia-adjacent romance, but it didn’t completely hook me. It’s dark and angsty, so if that’s your vibe, you’ll probably enjoy it more than I did.
805 reviews6 followers
Read
January 11, 2025
Hidden By His Side is the third book in the Wicked Defenders series and focuses on Ramiro and Summer. The story is intense and will grab your attention from the first page of the prologue until the end. Ramiro and Summer meet under tragic circumstances, and Ramiro helps save the teenage Summer as she is about to end her life because of a forced pregnancy. The first chapter picks up ten years later and Summer is working as Ramiro’s secretary. Even though they are in love with each other, Ramiro pushed her to date others for her own safety.

This book is well-written with incredible attention to world building. The plot was compelling and well-paced, and you can feel the danger, drama, suspense and emotions dripping off the pages. There is a lot of violence on and off page, so be sure to check the trigger warnings, and skip this book if those things bother you rather than give it a negative review. I really enjoyed the book, but I also enjoy dark and steamy stories. This is one of those books that will stay with you for a while.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Dee.
5,186 reviews60 followers
December 13, 2024
Part of the Wicked Defenders it is a page turner so get comfortable. Ramiro sexy as all get out dangerous, deadly if pushed recused a young women that he never forgot, he isn’t a man you want on your radar, and for ten years he has been protecting the young women but somewhere along the way he feel in love with her keeps her at arm’s length because of his involvement with the mafia thinking it is too dangerous for his girl. Summer is sweet, broken after an assault saved by a dangerous but yet she felt safe with her and all they have done was dance around each other for years the magnetic pull between them grows the more he tries to ignore it the stronger the pull grows it is the point of obsessiveness. Fate steps in making sure neither of them can walk away he is scared to ruin what’s there between them, she thinks he doesn’t want her because she is broken but where are they headed, will he ruin what’s between them, will he be honest about his feelings, will she be honest about her feelings, can he keep her safe, and will it all lead them to something more like happiness?
1,605 reviews13 followers
December 13, 2024
Hidden By His Side is beautifully crafted, well balanced with action and romance and perfectly executed by Author Amber Warden. Author Amber Warden continues to prove to me what a brilliant author she is with each book that I have read by her so far. I have absolutely enjoyed reading this mafia romance from beginning to end. In my honest opinion, Amber Warden puts her all into the books she writes for her readers enjoyment. The characters are well developed and beautifully executed throughout the book. I absolutely adored getting to know the main characters and seeing their story come to life. Hidden By His Side is most certainly a book that I would definitely give as a recommendation for anyone who enjoys reading mafia romances. I’m looking forward to reading more amazing romances from this author in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stormy Shadows.
590 reviews14 followers
December 19, 2024
4 Stars

This is considered a dark romance that is mafia adjacent but to me this isn't dark romance at all. Yes, there is dark themes and very heavy topics in this such as assault, accidentally pregnancy and so on. Please look up triggers for this. I felt like there were a couple of plot holes maybe? Ramiro is very possessive over Summer and it's giving touch her and you die vibes. There is a past and present timeline, mostly present and this is very very spicy! I enjoyed this overall and it was great. I love how Ramiro took care of Summer and was so gentle with her as the story progressed their connection became stronger I just wanted more details between the two and there isn't much mafia things just mentions of a cartel but regardless I really enjoyed and if this is what you like then I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Samantha Ki.
86 reviews
March 29, 2025
This book offers an original take on some familiar tropes, excitingly blending them! I loved Summer and Rodrigo’s dynamic, especially the intense chemistry and how they became so completely consumed by each other. The only drawback for me was that I wished there had been more emphasis on their relationship itself rather than the focus on the pregnancy. Summer struggled with making independent decisions throughout the entire book, and the pregnancy only exemplified this. That said, the story’s pacing was spot-on, keeping me engaged from start to finish, and the character development was fantastic. Overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and well-rounded story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,140 reviews10 followers
December 22, 2024
I love this series by Amber Warden: each character has their own unique struggles, but they find acceptance and love without reserve. Ramiro and Summer’s relationship is complex: he’s her savior, she’s his sunshine, and together they fill each other’s hearts. There are emotional, physical, and sexual obstacles that make Summer’s daily life difficult: she’s learned to downplay her feelings to protect Ramiro. He’s protective of her while facing his own struggles, but she’s his soul and he’s always there for her. I loved their chemistry, their commitment, and their flaws: they’re human! There are lots of triggers, but I found the emotional connection compelling!! Great read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
121 reviews1 follower
January 13, 2025
Omg where to begin. First please read the trigger warnings. This book deals with some heavy stuff!!!! With that being said let's get into this review. I loved this room with all my dark little heart. Ramiro is amazing, he is everything you want in a MMC. He is so patient and kind. Omg you just fall in love with him. Summer was great too. You just want to hold her. Her story is really dark and deep. The plot was good, I couldn't put it down. This is a very dark and heavy book, but I could not put it down. I love their love story. The spice was hot! I can't wait to read the next one. I really love this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
73 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2024
I think this is the darkest of the Wicked Defenders series so far. So emotionally charged, and will definitely trigger a lot of readers with its content, and subject matter. That doesn't mean you shouldn't appreciate the beauty behind the suffering.

I believe we all have a secret Summer inside of us - someone with a void that never truly feels full, no matter how much love we receive, and who doesn't believe we are worthy of love. Hopefully our inner Summer finds our Ramiro, who is determined to keep doing their best to keep that void filled for us. To keep reassuring us that we are, in fact, more than worthy of love.

His dark calls to hers, and neither one of them is letting go.
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
14.2k reviews157 followers
December 8, 2024
Ramiro is a dangerous man with a hardened heart but when he connects with Summer sparks ignite but h knows that her being with him would be a dangerous move, so he pushes her into the arms of another. When she returns to him a broken woman, he does what he vowed not to do which is take her in and make them a family. This heartwarming story had me cheering for this couple to finally get their chance for happiness.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,864 reviews35 followers
December 10, 2024
Wow could not put this down. So good!!

When Summer and Ramiro meet its instant but Ramiro has a dark past and Summer is too innocent, and he fears for her safety.

The suspense and drama is certainly ramped up in this book. The plot I just couldn't leave alone. That dynamic and the chemistry that they tried to deny was compelling, and only helped to draw me in.

Ramiro was dangerous but he loved her profusely so much so he pushed her away only for her to come back.

Very well done it is a book I am happy to recommend to anyone. I want more of this series. So good!!
240 reviews3 followers
November 27, 2024
I have read each book in the series and morally grey men with a heart underneath have moved me. Ramiro is no different. I loved how Ramiro wanted to save Summer especially from herself and even worse, the evil in him. It was the fact that they could look beyond the surface and see the best in each other. It was an excellent addition to the series. I cannot wait to read Alex's story. I hope he is next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Priscilla.
1,100 reviews
December 8, 2024
Ramiro and Summer's story is finally here. There have been hints of more from the other stories but now their story has been revealed and it is very heartbreaking and lovely too. Both are so broken and have loved each other ever since they met. Finally they are together but there are still the trauma of their past they have to get through. It is a pretty heavy read but their story was really worth it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
653 reviews6 followers
December 9, 2024
This book is a ride of drama so raw you will be exhausted at the end of it. The characters written and done so well with a realism to them.

Read those Trigger Warnings Folks and take heed. There was a moment there I didn't think the author could get to a HEA but they got there.

This book is a ride and I was there the whole way. Well worth the read definitely.

Got me out of my reading slump.
Profile Image for Helen.
233 reviews
April 26, 2025
Summer and ramiro
He stops her jumping off a bridge after being raped at 17 and takes her in and cares for her. It’s 10 years later and they live each other but he thinks she’s too good for his lifestyle. He pushes her to have other ‘normal’ boyfriends. Eventually she’s back at his door pregnant and broken.
I hadn’t read the first 2 books, it didn’t matter. They loved each other unconditionally.
5,985 reviews30 followers
December 12, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Wow, this was such an emotional roller-coaster the twists, the triggers, the story was written well and the characters were sensational. The Wicked Defenders series has been worth reading and I recommend reading it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,411 reviews5 followers
December 13, 2024
What a wonderful read!! I love a good dark romance and this is one of them. Once I started reading about Summer and Ramiro, I didn't want to stop reading. I wanted to keep going to see what was going to happen next. A definite page turner. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
644 reviews8 followers
December 15, 2024
Loved this it was much longer than the other books in the series so far so you get more back story and how the relationship develops. They are truly ment for each other and complete and full in the holes and damage they both have.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Theresa Simmons.
314 reviews2 followers
December 12, 2024
A very slow burn with a lot of emotional scenes. Heed the trigger warnings because this could be very upsetting for some. Despite it being so slow, it’s well written with interesting characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Heather.
2,892 reviews5 followers
December 13, 2024
Amazing story, This is book three in the series, I enjoyed the drama, twists and turns. The characters are amazing. A wonderful story. A must read..


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sammye.
4,783 reviews33 followers
December 14, 2024
This is the third book in the Wicked Defenders series. It’s a fantastic, intense story. There’s so much drama. It’s full of twists and turns. It’s a roller coaster ride of emotions. I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Christina Carberry.
110 reviews2 followers
December 18, 2024
This book hooked me from the beginning! The way the story line was and the dialogue with each character was awesome! And the spice!! This book is super spicy which I loved. Great book and this will be one that I go back to again and again!!
Profile Image for brenda hurley.
1,527 reviews8 followers
December 20, 2024
I thought this was a great read with the twists and spice. This is book three in this series. It' a page turner.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,007 reviews25 followers
December 23, 2024
Hidden by his side a wicked defenders story. I found that it was useful for me to have read the previous stories as I appreciated more the dynamics of the characters and what was going on. Ramiro and Summer have a lot to work through. A good read.
4,287 reviews50 followers
November 26, 2024
Fantastic story. Intense, detailed storyline. Twisted at times. Grabbed my attention from the first page. Highly recommend this awesome read!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews