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Grunts of Vanguard #2
Seductive Architect
I always knew the truth was out there… I just didn’t expect it to come storming into my office.
As an expert on Vanguard’s conspiracies, I’ve tracked every cover-up, lab experiment, and shadowy cabal lurking in the city. But nothing prepared me for Hudson—a genetically engineered super soldier working downstairs. He’s a walking weapon created by the very organization I’ve been hunting for years, but here’s the he has no idea who—or what—he really is.
For now, he hasn’t figured out my secret identity or that I can talk to machines. Meanwhile, the fax machine keeps urging me to find the mastermind pulling his strings, while the printer thinks I need to get Hudson naked… for science, obviously. The real problem? Every time he gives me that intense, smoldering look, I forget he wants me dead.
Falling for the enemy wasn’t part of the plan… but hey, no one said the truth would be easy. Or this hot.
Maybe the printer has a point.
Seductive Architect is an M/M, heart-felt adventure with an HEA and no cliffhangers. It features snark and sex, but not always in that order. This is book two in the Grunts of Vanguard series.
As an expert on Vanguard’s conspiracies, I’ve tracked every cover-up, lab experiment, and shadowy cabal lurking in the city. But nothing prepared me for Hudson—a genetically engineered super soldier working downstairs. He’s a walking weapon created by the very organization I’ve been hunting for years, but here’s the he has no idea who—or what—he really is.
For now, he hasn’t figured out my secret identity or that I can talk to machines. Meanwhile, the fax machine keeps urging me to find the mastermind pulling his strings, while the printer thinks I need to get Hudson naked… for science, obviously. The real problem? Every time he gives me that intense, smoldering look, I forget he wants me dead.
Falling for the enemy wasn’t part of the plan… but hey, no one said the truth would be easy. Or this hot.
Maybe the printer has a point.
Seductive Architect is an M/M, heart-felt adventure with an HEA and no cliffhangers. It features snark and sex, but not always in that order. This is book two in the Grunts of Vanguard series.
- GenresCrime
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2025
5 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Ryder O'Malley
65 books91 followersRyder acts as if he doesn’t watch sappy movies. He won’t admit to daydreaming about ex-boyfriends and asking “What if…” He’s a closet romantic who gets anxious about first dates. In a world filled with turmoil, he’s wants to drown in warm, fuzzy moments that make his heart swell. He loves bringing his chaotic dating life to the forefront. While he calls himself a romance writer, he likes to think of it as fanfic about his life. Someday… it’ll become a reality. Until then, he’ll invent dreamy men that make him tear up at their insistence that love always wins.
Ryder lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, living his happily ever-after. When he’s not writing, he can be found working on book covers (which means he’s admiring huskular bears with more than a little chest hair.)
Ryder lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, living his happily ever-after. When he’s not writing, he can be found working on book covers (which means he’s admiring huskular bears with more than a little chest hair.)
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 2, 2025
This was a fun, cute and definitely quirky read . I will definitely recommend reading book 1 prior. I didn't so I will say I was definitely lost at the beginning on what this fantasy world was all about and knowledge of the supporting characters. Orion and Hudson made a great couple. Orion willingness to go against his gut a lot due to his growing affection for Hudson made this a nice romance. He was a hoot tho...conspiracy theorist to the MAX and the end had me in stitches...All I can picture him doing is the "I told ya so" dance to his fellow coworkers. He will make them believers...LOL. Nice HEA but again I really recommend reading prior books to fully enjoy this fun read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 29, 2025
what in the world did i just read???
August 29, 2025
GRUNTS OF VANGUARD BOOK 2
Ok oops I’ve landed in a whole built world and I’m lost.
HEROES OF VANGUARD VILLAINS OF VANGUARD GRUNTS OF VANGUARD
Don’t be like me! Anyway let’s get into this book 😅
There’s Aliens, Superheroes, Villians, a HeroApp™, and a Secret Identities Inc.
‘Nobody ever said being a hero would be easy. Nowhere in the superhero manual did it talk about balancing a job with our secret identities.’
Cool weapons were the by-product of Orion’s abilities. Manipulating them with his mind was his superpower. Unlike most supers, he didn’t acquire his gifts. Orion had been born with them and had years of experience.
I think Orion also into conspiracy theories?
Orion has a Connie , his office computer connected to his visor.
Hudson from Synergy Research , delivers a package to Orion. A first awkward encounter.
Orion is intrigued by Hudson both professionally and personally. They go on a lunch time date.
Orion fights a villian, and Hudson appears and helps. Is he a superhero too? Orion is in his superhero
Costume so Hudson doesn’t realise who he is and fanboys. Orion quickly comes up with a super hero name to give Hudson - Failsafe. He instantly regrets that name.
Hudson is flirty with Orion, Orion is awkward and over thinks. they share first kisses. And then some sexy times.
Hudson and his list of firsts 🤔 is he an alien? I can’t figure him out.
‘Seconds ago, I wanted to pick apart his identity and get to the bottom of a theory tugging at my brain. With a few simple words and that charismatic grin, he chipped away at my defenses.’
Orion thinks Hudson is a machine , a synthetic human. Artificial intelligence. A super soldier. If Hudson is, I’m not sure if he knows.
Hudson and Orion are on a date when Orion tell Hudson he knows he’s not human.
‘I wanted to out his secret so that it was open between us. I hadn’t expected I’d be outing him to himself. His eyes dropped, fixed on the beer in front of him.’
Orion reveals that he is Failsafe and shows Hudson how he can communicate with machines, with him. I guess like telepathically ?
Hudson and Orion fight a villain.
Hudson is spiralling in an identity crisis and that he is some super soldier machine. That he isn’t human.
Awww They like like each other 😍 They are boyfriends.
This story has turned into stopping evil Ai’s from taking over the city. But the hero’s win.
The sight of a man who resembled Hudson enough they could have been siblings, missing synthetic human.
“Orion, meet Connor. Try not to blast him till after orientation.”
Ok oops I’ve landed in a whole built world and I’m lost.
HEROES OF VANGUARD VILLAINS OF VANGUARD GRUNTS OF VANGUARD
Don’t be like me! Anyway let’s get into this book 😅
There’s Aliens, Superheroes, Villians, a HeroApp™, and a Secret Identities Inc.
‘Nobody ever said being a hero would be easy. Nowhere in the superhero manual did it talk about balancing a job with our secret identities.’
Cool weapons were the by-product of Orion’s abilities. Manipulating them with his mind was his superpower. Unlike most supers, he didn’t acquire his gifts. Orion had been born with them and had years of experience.
I think Orion also into conspiracy theories?
Orion has a Connie , his office computer connected to his visor.
Hudson from Synergy Research , delivers a package to Orion. A first awkward encounter.
Orion is intrigued by Hudson both professionally and personally. They go on a lunch time date.
Orion fights a villian, and Hudson appears and helps. Is he a superhero too? Orion is in his superhero
Costume so Hudson doesn’t realise who he is and fanboys. Orion quickly comes up with a super hero name to give Hudson - Failsafe. He instantly regrets that name.
Hudson is flirty with Orion, Orion is awkward and over thinks. they share first kisses. And then some sexy times.
Hudson and his list of firsts 🤔 is he an alien? I can’t figure him out.
‘Seconds ago, I wanted to pick apart his identity and get to the bottom of a theory tugging at my brain. With a few simple words and that charismatic grin, he chipped away at my defenses.’
Orion thinks Hudson is a machine , a synthetic human. Artificial intelligence. A super soldier. If Hudson is, I’m not sure if he knows.
Hudson and Orion are on a date when Orion tell Hudson he knows he’s not human.
‘I wanted to out his secret so that it was open between us. I hadn’t expected I’d be outing him to himself. His eyes dropped, fixed on the beer in front of him.’
Orion reveals that he is Failsafe and shows Hudson how he can communicate with machines, with him. I guess like telepathically ?
Hudson and Orion fight a villain.
Hudson is spiralling in an identity crisis and that he is some super soldier machine. That he isn’t human.
Awww They like like each other 😍 They are boyfriends.
This story has turned into stopping evil Ai’s from taking over the city. But the hero’s win.
The sight of a man who resembled Hudson enough they could have been siblings, missing synthetic human.
“Orion, meet Connor. Try not to blast him till after orientation.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
Orion talks to machines. He has a close connection with Connie, his super-intelligent computer and she manages to help him out of most of the scrapes he and the team find themselves in. Most of them are usually ones they shouldn't be in because they are on lunch break but they are superheroes, they have to help! Talking to machines can be great in the office too. When the boss, Arthur, upsets someone or something the microwave can be encouraged to refuse to heat his coffee... There are also times when it would be nice if the machines didn't all have a voice!
Hudson began by working in the mailroom, now he can deliver it which means he can go out and about in the office. He has caught the attention of Orion, and not just because he is very handsome but also because he is new and Orion likes to know everything about everyone in the building and their offices, after all it is very important and could be life-saving to interrogate everything. Of course talking to the machines helps too. A first lunch date surprises them both as they learn Hudson has never eaten Mexican food, in fact there is a lot more he has never eaten and never done. The mystery deepens.
As Orion delves deeper, more is revealed. Hudson could be the enemy but he is falling for the other man anyway. With tongue-in-cheek dialogue, just the way a true superhero story should be written, action that could be considered a little violent if it wasn't for the hilarious way in which our heroes deal with it, this is a true superhero story. It feels as though Ryder O'Malley has gone back to the beginning, back to what a superhero story was originally supposed to be, lots of action, none of it really that terrible, a not-so-super superhero and team and a day-to-day cover in the form of an office job. Brilliant. I urge you to give it a go.
Hudson began by working in the mailroom, now he can deliver it which means he can go out and about in the office. He has caught the attention of Orion, and not just because he is very handsome but also because he is new and Orion likes to know everything about everyone in the building and their offices, after all it is very important and could be life-saving to interrogate everything. Of course talking to the machines helps too. A first lunch date surprises them both as they learn Hudson has never eaten Mexican food, in fact there is a lot more he has never eaten and never done. The mystery deepens.
As Orion delves deeper, more is revealed. Hudson could be the enemy but he is falling for the other man anyway. With tongue-in-cheek dialogue, just the way a true superhero story should be written, action that could be considered a little violent if it wasn't for the hilarious way in which our heroes deal with it, this is a true superhero story. It feels as though Ryder O'Malley has gone back to the beginning, back to what a superhero story was originally supposed to be, lots of action, none of it really that terrible, a not-so-super superhero and team and a day-to-day cover in the form of an office job. Brilliant. I urge you to give it a go.
August 30, 2025
A superhero conspiracy theorist? The story practically writes itself!
Another flawed but lovable Vanguard character to add to Ryder's collection of superheroes. Orion has the photos and string wall, the faraday cage-type room that blocks absolutely everything, the metaphorical tinfoil hat, and a complete and total distrust of everyone and everything and yet, he still manages to be completely adorable. Faced with all a surprisingly innocent burly beefcake whose smile does things to him, Orion never stood a chance.
Ryder makes all his characters distinct from each other, but Orion is probably the most intriguing of the lot, and that's saying something. I love Ryder's imagination and here, Orion completely captured me. His abilities felt frighteningly achievable, the way technology is advancing in leaps and bounds now, and his best friend was very unusual but completely suited him. Hudson drew me in too, needing to know his secrets.
As always, this is another story full of heart and found family and the same lofty ideals that run through all three of the Vanguard series, even the Villains of Vanguard. Heroes Orion, Drew, Wyatt, their boss, Arthur, and whatever the hell Janet is (yes, we all know the answer to that is whatever the hell she says she is on any given day) are just as wonderful as they were in the free prequel, Exposed Executive, and Breathless Recruiter. Trying their best while preparing for the worst, making friends despite their aversion to doing so (talking to you especially, Damien and Orion), finding love against the odds, protecting their city and its citizens, often more than one villain at a time.
Another flawed but lovable Vanguard character to add to Ryder's collection of superheroes. Orion has the photos and string wall, the faraday cage-type room that blocks absolutely everything, the metaphorical tinfoil hat, and a complete and total distrust of everyone and everything and yet, he still manages to be completely adorable. Faced with all a surprisingly innocent burly beefcake whose smile does things to him, Orion never stood a chance.
Ryder makes all his characters distinct from each other, but Orion is probably the most intriguing of the lot, and that's saying something. I love Ryder's imagination and here, Orion completely captured me. His abilities felt frighteningly achievable, the way technology is advancing in leaps and bounds now, and his best friend was very unusual but completely suited him. Hudson drew me in too, needing to know his secrets.
As always, this is another story full of heart and found family and the same lofty ideals that run through all three of the Vanguard series, even the Villains of Vanguard. Heroes Orion, Drew, Wyatt, their boss, Arthur, and whatever the hell Janet is (yes, we all know the answer to that is whatever the hell she says she is on any given day) are just as wonderful as they were in the free prequel, Exposed Executive, and Breathless Recruiter. Trying their best while preparing for the worst, making friends despite their aversion to doing so (talking to you especially, Damien and Orion), finding love against the odds, protecting their city and its citizens, often more than one villain at a time.
November 12, 2025
I am really late reviewing this, so apologies Ryder O'Malley and to be honest I am angry with myself. Orion spend most of his time managing the bugs in the Hero App, a job he is good at it as his superhero power is talking to machines and when he is fighting the supervillains Connie his computer goes along for the ride. His superpowers have other uses as a conspiracy (Don't say that) truth-seeker, he uses them to find those hidden secrets that he knows Synergy Research and others have. Not one to trust soon gets forgotten when Hudson walks in delivering a package, the smile, the list making, the excitement of "firsts" is more important than theories Orion have.
This book was so much fun to read, with mystery as Orion tries to get to the bottom of who or what Hudson was, action when the supervillains come out to play, laughter mainly down to Janet and her "girls", who all I can say is that it is a good job she is the HR person because she would keep the department really busy, but underneath her bravado she has a heart of gold and then you get a romance that shows that Orion has found his perfect man.
With not much cameo time from the rest of the team, it did give me longer to get to know Orion and I did get a few scenes with my sweet sweet Wyatt, Cannot wait to see what happens with Drew
This book was so much fun to read, with mystery as Orion tries to get to the bottom of who or what Hudson was, action when the supervillains come out to play, laughter mainly down to Janet and her "girls", who all I can say is that it is a good job she is the HR person because she would keep the department really busy, but underneath her bravado she has a heart of gold and then you get a romance that shows that Orion has found his perfect man.
With not much cameo time from the rest of the team, it did give me longer to get to know Orion and I did get a few scenes with my sweet sweet Wyatt, Cannot wait to see what happens with Drew
August 27, 2025
Orion’s job at Secret Identities Incorporated really suits him. He can actually talk to machines and knows something is going on. He even has his own computer called Connie. He is fantastic at conspiracy theories and some are more than just theories. He finds Hudson, the mailroom employee, to be quite fascinating and desirable as well. He has a theory that Hudson is actually a super soldier, created by group he has been investigating. No matter what the printer thinks, he knows he needs to get closer to Hudson for investigation purposes. He is soon in over his head but knows he is right where he should be.
Orion is quite amusing. His theories are his method of explaining his curiosity and his thoughts. Hudson made for a great companion for him. Their chemistry was quite sizzling. Janet acts just we all wish we could and adds to the humor. Snark, action, and heat combine to make this one a keeper with everything you want in a superhero story. Looking forward to more.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Orion is quite amusing. His theories are his method of explaining his curiosity and his thoughts. Hudson made for a great companion for him. Their chemistry was quite sizzling. Janet acts just we all wish we could and adds to the humor. Snark, action, and heat combine to make this one a keeper with everything you want in a superhero story. Looking forward to more.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2025
A super hero that's a conspiracy theorist whose best friend is his computer? Oh wow. Orion is insanely funny..... annnnnnd..... insane. But he thinks he's not really crazy. He doesn't wear an aluminum foil hat! Hudson is a real cutie. He's delighted that he's no longer stuck in the mailroom, and gets to move about the building. When he delivers a package to Orion, there's attraction. And suspicion. A bit of sizzle.
This was snarky good fun. The super heroes will all make you shake your head. They're all bumbling incompetents. but are all hysterical. Janet, the office queen? ruler of the universe? general pain in the butt, is terrific.
I can't wait for the next book. This one will improve even the worst of days!
I received an advanced copy of this book from GRR and this is my review.
This was snarky good fun. The super heroes will all make you shake your head. They're all bumbling incompetents. but are all hysterical. Janet, the office queen? ruler of the universe? general pain in the butt, is terrific.
I can't wait for the next book. This one will improve even the worst of days!
I received an advanced copy of this book from GRR and this is my review.
September 12, 2025
Orion fits his job perfectly—his gift with computers lets him see what no one else can. When strange problems start showing up in the system, he quickly realizes this is no ordinary glitch.
Enter Hudson, the courier with a sly glances that make it impossible for Orion to ignore him. What starts as curiosity quickly sparks into something more, but Hudson may be hiding more than he lets on.
Together, they’re drawn into a puzzle that leads them to a hidden code and truths that could change everything.
💻💌 Quirky banter, slow-burn chemistry, and a twisty thread of mystery make this sequel just as addictive as book one!
Enter Hudson, the courier with a sly glances that make it impossible for Orion to ignore him. What starts as curiosity quickly sparks into something more, but Hudson may be hiding more than he lets on.
Together, they’re drawn into a puzzle that leads them to a hidden code and truths that could change everything.
💻💌 Quirky banter, slow-burn chemistry, and a twisty thread of mystery make this sequel just as addictive as book one!
August 4, 2025
All the fun snark and witty dialog I've come to expect from Vanguard. Janet's antics made me laugh out loud more than once (avoid beverages while reading this one!). Also - you might need to start a conspiracy wall of your own to track all the plot twists.
Orion and Hudson have great chemistry, and turn up the heat in spicy scenes. I already read their bonus story, but hope they make some appearances in other series books as well. I'm just not quite ready to be done with this group of heroes.
Orion and Hudson have great chemistry, and turn up the heat in spicy scenes. I already read their bonus story, but hope they make some appearances in other series books as well. I'm just not quite ready to be done with this group of heroes.
August 13, 2025
3.75/5. Same notes, different book. I loved the characters, hated the superhero-sized need for editing, and some things were confusing/wonky. I loved the love, I loved the feels I got hit with, and the afterword was another hug-inducer. Janet is still the character that annoys you but is the best of the best. I wonder if her and a certain bestie will be knocking boots before long… Can’t wait for the next book. I love this author and the heart they pour into their writing. It makes things all the better.
August 23, 2025
'This is reckless. I know it. I did it anyway.
It defied all logic.
My emotions were overriding logic, and in the past, that ended poorly. I needed to get my head screwed on straight before I did something stupid.'
I really enjoyed this book. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Orion and Hudson. This story was a fun romance, with some suspense, and action, of course. I liked the supporting characters, and the banter and humor. I loved the dynamic between the two of them and the way their relationship developed. 4 stars
It defied all logic.
My emotions were overriding logic, and in the past, that ended poorly. I needed to get my head screwed on straight before I did something stupid.'
I really enjoyed this book. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Orion and Hudson. This story was a fun romance, with some suspense, and action, of course. I liked the supporting characters, and the banter and humor. I loved the dynamic between the two of them and the way their relationship developed. 4 stars
August 28, 2025
Orion can communicate with machines and electronics. Communication with humans is difficult but he is working on that. He strives to unwrap conspiracies, but something is going on and there is a strange code around the building he works. Then he encounters Hudson from the mailroom an engineered super soldier but something is different with him. Together they face danger, first experiences, and finding the source of what’s going on. This is a fun adventure in Vanguard that shows everyone can change and learn.
September 4, 2025
In real life, I try to avoid conspiracy theorists at all costs, but here in Ryder O'Malley's world they are a delight and not all their theories are so far fetched. Watching Orion figure out who and what Hudson is before he does himself made for a great story and I couldn't wait to see how these two might work through their roles as enemies to ever find a way to be together. The world building is fantastic as always and keeps me coming back to learn more of what's really going on amidst all the plots and schemes.
August 14, 2025
Funny! Hudson, works in the mailroom. He is delightful and had no idea who he is. Orion talks to machines and they tell him amazing things. Orion, is aware of many things and can prove none. He is attracted to Hudson, but wary. There are a lot of questions, mysterious answers and some exciting adventure. Really fun story that is intriguing, sweet and amazing. Nicely done! I happily received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2025
This wasn't as good as his other books. It seemed flat. I thought the revelation about Hudson was a little too pat. I don't want to give away the plot so you'll have to read it yourself.
I didn't care for Orion. I thought he was too much of a trope-the whole wall of weird and "The Truth is Out There" type. I think he could have been fleshed out more.
I'll read the last book in the series because I'm a big fan of the author. Hopefully it will be better.
I didn't care for Orion. I thought he was too much of a trope-the whole wall of weird and "The Truth is Out There" type. I think he could have been fleshed out more.
I'll read the last book in the series because I'm a big fan of the author. Hopefully it will be better.
August 11, 2025
This is another good addition to the author’s Vanguard universe Orion and Hudson’s story kept my attention as there was just the right blend of drama, action, snark and steam and I’m looking forward to reading the next book from this author’s Vanguard Universe.
August 12, 2025
The Vanguard world continues to expand, with all the charm, snark, and hotness I've come to expect from these books. This story was funny and sweet with a kick, with side characters that were equally as great as the mains. Looking forward to seeing what comes next (and the bonus story).
August 17, 2025
This was such a funny book, I love snarky banter, the talking to machines was just perfection, and the steamy steams were ridiculously hot! If you want to spend an afternoon with some sexy guys, some light hearted relief and some action then I highly recommend this book!
September 13, 2025
3.5 Stars ⭐️
Ryder O'Malley always write such a fun read. This was no exception. It was fun, flirty and super cute. I can't wait for the next book.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Ryder O'Malley always write such a fun read. This was no exception. It was fun, flirty and super cute. I can't wait for the next book.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
August 22, 2025
Really enjoyable. I'm going to be very sad to see the close of this series in the next book.
Considering petitioning (okay, asking really nicely) if the author would consider a Janet short story.
Considering petitioning (okay, asking really nicely) if the author would consider a Janet short story.
August 30, 2025
It is a good book and a couple.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2025
this was a good book. well written. loved the characters. this was also my first book by this author i will be reading more.
September 12, 2025
This book is a heartfelt twist for the sci-fi genre.
The characters and the story grip you and drag you into their world and don’t let go until the last page.
The characters and the story grip you and drag you into their world and don’t let go until the last page.
August 12, 2025
0Just love this "Vanguard" world from Ryder. As we follow Orion and Hudson’s journey we are treated to the expected snarky banter but also are taken on a superb ride woth plenty of action, drama and lets not forget the steam!!! Fantastic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2025
2.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews