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Claimed by the Damned: A Possessive Reverse Harem Romance

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Claimed by the A Dark Mafia Reverse Harem Romance
Book One in the Wicked Sanctuary Series

Delilah "Lila" Vaughn has finally escaped the clutches of her obsessive, abusive husband—ruthless Russian mob boss Nikolai "Kolya" Mikhailov. Bruised but not broken, she crashes into the quiet coastal town of Yachats, Oregon… and into the lives of three dangerously protective ex-military men who run Wicked Sanctuary, a private security firm built to shield women like her.

Ethan—the golden retriever in combat boots, a hacker with a soft heart and sharp skills.
Bastian—the cold, calculating CEO who thrives on control but can’t resist the pull of one stubborn woman.
Ryker—the unhinged wildcard with scars, tattoos, and a fierce need to protect what’s his.

They don’t just offer Lila safety—they offer her something she never thought she’d find trust, desire, and maybe even a future.

But Kolya doesn’t let go of what he believes he owns. And when he finds out Lila’s secret, he’ll stop at nothing to drag her back—dead or alive.

As betrayal closes in and her past collides with her present, Lila must make an impossible run again, or stand her ground and fight for the love—and the freedom—she never believed she deserved.

Claimed by the Damned is a steamy, suspenseful reverse harem romance featuring three possessive alpha males, a survivor with claws, a relentless mafia villain, and a hard-earned happily ever after.

528 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 31, 2025

21 people are currently reading
77 people want to read

About the author

Wren Fox

8 books20 followers
Wren Fox writes emotionally charged romance with a dark, dangerous edge—and just enough hope to leave your heart bruised and begging for more. Her stories dive deep into love, lust, trauma, and survival, all wrapped up in tension you can cut with a knife.

When she's not lost in fictional chaos, Wren is probably hanging out with Grimm, her loyal (and sometimes chaotic) Doberman sidekick, who firmly believes he's the real star of the show. Together, they navigate life one coffee, plot twist, and sarcastic remark at a time.

Wren believes in fierce heroines, broken but beautiful heroes, and that love—even the messy kind—is always worth fighting for.

Connect with Wren:
Newsletter: https://houseofkingpublishing.kit.com...

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Kris-Posey.
129 reviews17 followers
May 25, 2025
Unexpectedly powerful!

There was a-lot to unpack in this one, though the author undertook the task with finesse. Pulling the reader into a well crafted story, and holding them captive until the very last page!

Claimed by the damned, had me feeling EVERYTHING from one end of the emotional scale to the other as we witness Lila piecing herself back together again— and being ‘warrior as all heck’ while doing so.

Ethan, Ryker and Bastian are just completely and utterly delicious, as are their interactions with the broken Lila!

Honestly, I could go on and on about how much I loved this book— But, you just need to read it, and the less you know going in, the better… it will hit harder if you do.

Great book!
Amazing writing!

I am a fan!!
Profile Image for Ami.
46 reviews14 followers
August 11, 2025
no ow/om drama, no virgins
they never shared a woman before
Profile Image for Amanda Large.
187 reviews4 followers
May 31, 2025
Wow, this book started with a bang. I think this series is going to be a huge hit. I enjoyed getting to know these 4. The story was filled with anticipation and action (both in and out of the bedroom). Getting to see the story from multiple POVs was interesting. Especially with a certain someone's POV. I wasn't expecting that and I didn't like it at first. But I do think it was necessary to get the whole picture. Lila is one hell of a badass. She's so strong and has been through so much. She deserves to find her peace.

The last 10 chapters are where the action really got good. A full-on war, so to speak. It was touch and go for a few chapters, and my heart was racing.

The one thing that I felt like may have been overlooked was the aftermath of what Lila had to do. Ryker had mentioned what that would cost her when he saw her. But there wasn't any mention of that after the fact. There was the guilt that they got hurt, but nothing about what she had to do to survive. I wish that was addressed in some way.

Another thing: maybe this is just me. But you have 3 very overprotective, possessive men and 1 very overprotective guardian "brother" and none of them thought to check on her in 2+ hours? Even though they were in mission mode, I would think one of them would at least see where shes at. Whether that's a plot hole or intentional, I have no idea. I just thought that was a little off.

This is still a really good book! The action scenes are worth it on its own. The next book is Grim's story, and I can't wait. Him and Theo are the side characters I'm most intrigued by. Hopefully, Grim's (and maybe Theo's 🤞) story is just as good.
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,131 reviews35 followers
June 1, 2025
Running for her life

This book literally starts with an escape. A trusted guard to get her out with a town as her only destination. His brother lives there and will keep her safe. She just has to keep going and not look back. Running as far as she can before actually passing out. 

Ryker finds a woman half frozen and unconscious near their home so of course he takes her home. She is scared and injured but everything in him wants to keep her safe. 

Lila has no idea how to handle the men she now finds herself with. Ryker, Bastian and Ethan are all formidable but something about them doesn't scare her so much as her fear of the man she is running from.

I absolutely love how each of these relationships comes together. Each man gives Lila something she desperately needed in her life. Each of their personalities speaks to something inside her that she needed and never expected to find. How can she think about these men knowing what she is running from? Is there a way to keep them safe and keep them for herself or will she need to keep running? 

This story packs a punch while being mindful of the trauma and responses. This story is finding power and hunger and overcoming the worst days of her life. 

Absolutely beautiful story and I can't wait to see what else Wren writes.
Profile Image for Chelsea Hutchinson.
14 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2025
4.5 stars! Claimed by the Damned delivers everything I crave in a dark, spicy romance—danger, healing, and a whole lot of steam. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Lila’s story. Escaping her abusive mob boss ex-husband, she finds herself wrapped up with three possessive, protective men who choose to shelter and cherish her rather than break her down. And let me tell you… the spice? Top. Tier. 🔥

While the first quarter of the book was a bit slow for me due to the heavy internal dialogue, once the pace picked up, I could not put it down. The emotional depth and layered backstories make it so worth the wait. Lila’s transformation throughout the book is empowering to witness—she’s strong, vulnerable, and so much more than a survivor. I loved watching her come into her own.

Each of the men brings something unique to the table, and their devotion to Lila made my heart melt. What really stood out was how none of them saw her as weak—they respected her strength and helped her rebuild without trying to control her.

If you’re into dark romance with protective men, high heat, and emotional depth, this one’s for you. Just buckle in and push through that slower start—you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable ride
Profile Image for Jessica Benard.
93 reviews3 followers
June 4, 2025
Rating 3.75
Spice 3

Mafia and RH lovers this book is for you.

The FMC’s journey from heartbreak to healing was raw, empowering, and unexpectedly romantic. It’s not just about falling in love—it’s about reclaiming your life and learning to trust again. She had It rough and found a safe haven. The 3 MMCs are all different but complement each other in a very good way. The dynamic was awesome. Each helped her heal in a different way. They are protective, smart, and hot lol.

The reason I gave It 3.75 is because for me the action out of the bedroom happened towards the end. I wish there was more spread out. I can appreciate the build up to the climatic battle though. This book was a little slow for me in the beginning but really picked up the last half. I really appreciate the ending and no cliff hanger because sometimes those suck haha.

I want to take a moment to appreciate Grim. He was by far my favorite character and I absolutely loved him and his mocking banter. I can’t wait for his story.

Overall I would recommend this to my book friends who like the mafia vibes, found family, healing journey, and protective males.

Thank you Wren for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book.
Profile Image for Kitab_khana_.
12 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2025
An Addictive Blend of Healing, Heat, and Heart 💥❤️‍🔥

Wren Fox delivered such a captivating ride with Claimed by Damned. This book isn’t just a why-choose romance—it’s a story about survival, trust, and finding light after darkness. Lila's escape from an abusive marriage is the start of a powerful journey, and watching her rebuild herself with the help of three deeply caring, distinct men was emotional in all the best ways.

The pacing felt deliberate—giving space to her trauma, then slowly layering in connection, chemistry, and eventually, fireworks. It’s not all romance though—there’s tension, danger, and some serious plot twists that kept me flipping pages. And the spice? It's woven in with care, adding to the intimacy rather than overpowering the story.

What really stood out to me was the balance—grit, softness, strength, and heat all working together. And the ending? So satisfying, with an epilogue that left me smiling and ready for book two. This book gave me everything I didn’t know I needed. 👏🔥
351 reviews
June 1, 2025
Claimed by the Damned is book one in the Wicked Sanctuary series and is the story of Lila, Ethan, Bastian and Ryker. This is a reverse harem, suspenseful, steamy romance with a relentless mafia villain, three possessive alpha males, a survivor FMC with a hard won HEA.

Lila escaped her monstrous husband and is taken in by Ethan, Bastian and Ryker who have a security firm who assists women like her escape awful situations. Each of Lila's men bring something different to the relationship and they help her heal from her past while they devote themselves to her. There is a lot of emotional depth and the layered backstories add to the overall depth of the entire book.

This is a dark, emotional romance with strong FMC and her three amazing MMC's that help her overcome her past trauma while showing her that love is possible and that there are good men out there. I absolutely recommend this to lover's of reverse harem, over the top protective/possessive men who are willing to do anything for the woman they love.
Profile Image for Rachael.
52 reviews4 followers
June 3, 2025
Tropes: Found Family, Golden Retriever, Banter, Nicknames, Protector/Savior, Touch her and Die, Revenge, and more!

Ryker, Ethan, and Bastian are the epitome of protectors and possessiveness. They each had their role to play in helping Lila overcome her violent past and build a world where she was safe and loved the way she deserved. There was a twist that, although I expected it, still surprised me when it appeared. Being an avid reader, I swear nothing surprises me anymore, so this was for sure a pleasant turn of events.

There were times when I stayed up way too late to read "just one more chapter" or wanted to read the book when I should have been studying or working. Overall, a highly recommended read for those who enjoy some romance, violence, and their MCs to get a little bloody!
Profile Image for Chasity7474📚❤️.
394 reviews34 followers
May 16, 2025
This is a slow burn, suspense, why choose romance. The characters are enjoyable and the story is paced well.

Lila is living a nightmare being married to a monster. Theo helps her escape and when she is at her most vulnerable she finds herself being taken care of by three good guys. They slowly help her heal and the bond between them grows. The first 40% was a lot more internal dialogue than character conversations. I would have liked more conversations because once that started they were great. There is repetition in a few paragraphs throughout but it doesn’t take away from the overall storyline. The guys all have unique personalities and they fit so well together. There is just the right amount of spice and it doesn’t overtake the plot. The last 20% is loads of action and it ends with a beautiful epilogue that will lead to another book. There is not a cliffhanger at the end of this book.
Profile Image for Morgan.
171 reviews12 followers
May 25, 2025
There are many things I love in a dark romance. Obsessive, possessive MMCs, spice that sets the room on fire, and a good old fashioned rampage.

This had it ALL.

I honestly can not fit into a few sentences all the things I loved about this book. I will start with the MMCs. JESUS. All three of these men are welcome ANYTIME. Each character was crafted with incredible complexity and uniqueness and was perfectly made to compliment each other. That and they are all hot AF.

I LOVED this plot. So. Damn. Good. I am a SUCKER for all the tropes this story included so, naturally, I was on my knees and on the edge the entire time.

And don't even get me started on finding out there's more. I'm coming for book 2 HARD.
Profile Image for Hannah Reed.
2 reviews1 follower
May 19, 2025
Where do I start with this book? The FMC is a badass who I want to be like. The things she goes through and the way she still comes out on top is spectacular. The slow burn of the romance vs the fast pace of the action was top tier. And don’t get me started on the men in her life! *chef’s kiss* the way the dynamic worked between all three of them makes me want men like this in my life. Sorry to my husband 😂 I can’t wait to continue reading this series and see what else the author comes up with.
Profile Image for Dana.
148 reviews4 followers
June 28, 2025
I read this in one night - it was action-filled and emotional right from the beginning. I loved how each character POV felt different and really showed their personality and perspective.

Lila goes through and overcomes so much, the guys (Ryker, Ethan, and Bastian) have formed a brotherhood built on shared history and common goals, and we can’t forget Grim and Theo and how they fit in and add to the protective dynamic.

There were one or two minor things that caused me to give this 4 stars instead of 5, but it’s a truly great story and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
Profile Image for Rachel Stephens.
2,343 reviews42 followers
June 1, 2025
I was pulled into the story right away, with Lila trying to escape. I didn't want to stop reading because I wondered what would come next.
This book had suspense, danger, and a few twists. In addition there lots of emotions, tension, and spice.
While Lila was a bit broken in the beginning, she didn't stay that way. We see her strength and growth. With them help of the MMCS we see her start to heal and feel loved.
Bastian, Ryker, and Ethan I loved them. They were different, and each offered Lila something she needed.
All in all, I think this was a captivating read and I loved the ending!
621 reviews16 followers
June 1, 2025
I was definitely hooked beginning to end with this book. I absolutely fell in love with Lila. Who’s trying to escape her abusive husband. Bastian, Ethan and Ryker take her in and help her. I love them as well. They help her heal through her trauma and they are all also so protective and possessive of Lila. Definitely love that. I love dark mafia romance. Love all the twist and turns. Will most definitely read more from the author!!!!
Profile Image for Liza.
214 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2025
The Damned Claimed her. I really enjoyed reading this. There were a few things that i felt were unfinished (before the final edit, which is when I read it, and the reason for my 4 stars.) I believe those have now been fixed and is most likely a 5 star read. However, I can only base my 4 stars on what I read. Apart from all of that, the novel started very strong. Pulled me in straight away and I wanted to keep reading. How Lila, Ethan, Bastian, Ryker came together was such a gradual but quick occurrence. Loved how it all came about. They are also very enjoyable personalities and I enjoyed reading their POV's. I also enjoyed the very ending. It has left it opened to read the next novel however, if you choose not to and just read as a standalone, that works well also. Wren's writing style is amazing, easy to follow, explains details wonderfully and the smut in the novel, I also enjoyed. I have read quite a few FMMM novels, and it's nice to read a completely different style and theme within the novel.
Profile Image for Panda Pup in Bootz.
116 reviews7 followers
June 18, 2025
~*~ arc for honest review ~*~

This one is a classic reverse harem why choose mafia romance.
Our FMC is abused but not broken
She escapes her abusive obcessed husband and falls into the unexpected safety of three men who run a merc buisness that excels in extractions

They are three very different personalities and each one gives her support emotionally in very diffrent ways and fall hard for her

Loved it
no on scene major trauma
Plenty of spice
Plenty of banter

5🌶️
5✨
Profile Image for Megan Key-Holliday.
206 reviews6 followers
May 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book. Seeing the guys help Lila learn to love and trust was wonderful! Lila was dealt a terrible hand, and they quickly built a sense of safety for her. Each of the men have very differing personalities that make up an interesting team/family. This was a fun read. Just make sure to check all TWs before you pick it up.
Profile Image for ameera reads.
14 reviews3 followers
June 3, 2025
This was such an emotional and powerful read. Lila’s journey from pain to healing is written with a lot of care, and I really enjoyed seeing how the bond between her and the guys grew over time. Each of the men brings something unique to the story, and together they create a real sense of safety and support for her. The story blends heartache, healing, and just the right touch of spice. Definitely recommend.
Profile Image for tessa richards.
103 reviews4 followers
June 18, 2025
amazing could not put it down. you have daddy dom, golden retriever, and what i like to call the deadpool(bc he's unhinged but loves fiercely). absolutely amazing the big thing at the end was not rushed and very well done. can't wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Erin Saulpaugh.
526 reviews15 followers
June 24, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book! I love Mafia romance, and this is one of the best mafia romance books I've read! I cant wait to read more of this series!
Profile Image for Jessika S..
115 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Explosive Debut Full of Heart, Heat, and Healing

What a fantastic debut! This story has it all — suspense, danger, emotion, transformation, and just the right amount of spice (and oh boy, the spice is spicin’ 👀🔥).

The pacing is smart and deliberate — there’s some build-up early on, but trust me, it’s worth every second. The emotional groundwork pays off beautifully, making the twists hit harder and the connections feel so much deeper. I was glued to my e-reader, needing to know what happened next!

Ryker, Ethan, and Bastian each bring something totally different to the table — distinct personalities, unique chemistry, and all of them so perfect for Lila in their own way. And Lila… what a powerhouse. She starts from such a broken, vulnerable place, but watching her claw her way back to strength was incredible. This isn’t a story of men “fixing” her — it’s about her finding her own strength, with partners who see it in her even when she can’t. Their bond is emotional, raw, and so healing.

The story literally kicks off mid-escape — danger at her heels, a snowstorm, and a rescue that changes everything. From there, it’s a journey of survival, trust, and rediscovering power. Each man gives Lila something she never knew she needed, and together they build something both tender and fierce.

It’s spicy, yes — but it’s also layered, sensitive, and beautifully written. The trauma is handled thoughtfully, the recovery feels real, and the romance? Absolutely electric.

An unforgettable debut. Wren is definitely an author I’ll be watching — I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
Profile Image for Sabrina Mordini.
407 reviews13 followers
June 3, 2025
A dark and twisty RH with strong character voices

Claimed by the Damned by Wren Fox is a reverse harem story with dark undertones and a solid plot that takes its time unfolding. What stood out most to me was the use of multiple POVs—not just from the MFC and the three MMCs, but also from the antagonist, who is actively trying to get the heroine back. This extra perspective added tension and depth, and despite the number of voices, each one felt distinct and well-developed, which made reading the story smooth and engaging.

The pacing was well-handled, with a nice balance between action, relationship dynamics, and a few spicy scenes that didn’t overwhelm the plot. It felt like the author took care to let the story breathe, allowing the characters to grow and the stakes to build naturally.

My main drawback was the use of the pregnancy trope. It felt a bit forced, especially with the surprise reactions—no one had ever mentioned birth control, yet everyone acted shocked. The shift in how the FMC was treated afterward (almost like she was suddenly made of glass) pulled me out of the story a little. While I appreciated her reclaiming her agency and making her own choices, this particular plot turn felt unnecessary and slightly undermined the tone set earlier.

That said, I really enjoyed the journey and I’m definitely curious to see where things go next, especially with the side characters. This was a strong start, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Kini ~my shelves are spoilers~.
20 reviews9 followers
June 1, 2025
This was such a great debut!
There is suspense, danger, emotion, transformation, growth, and of course... the spice is spicin'! Hooo boy, these men are hot hot hot.
The pace is well thought out and, while it has a lot of building at the beginning, trust me that the payout is perfect. It sets the tone and emotional depth so that the rest of the chapters, (and the twists!) really keep you gripping your ereader needing to know what happens next!
Ryker, Ethan, and Bastian have such differing personalities and differing ways of interacting with Lila and yet, each of them is perfect for her. And Lila, what a warrior! She comes from such a broken place emotionally and mentally and she fights and claws her way back up. The 4 of them together create such a healing bond and Lila is able to piece herself back together, stronger than ever. Not the guys fixing her, her fixing her. Because they don't see Lila as weak and they don't treat her as such. They each saw the strength she didn't think she had anymore and just helped her see it for herself and then helped her heal. Their dynamic together is amazing.
Did I mention the spice is spicin'? Because it is! I am not going to give anything away for this but... it's sooooo good!!
The side characters are also great and I can't wait for book 2. We'll get to see my favourite character in his own book and I am so excited!
Profile Image for Nikki B..
841 reviews17 followers
June 26, 2025
I love books like this that start off with an escape of some sort. It really hooks you into the story line. Delilah is on the run, fleeing from her abusive husband. The things he does to her is mean and cruel. One of his guards can no longer stand by and watch the cruelty so he helps her plan an escape. Once she's out, she needs to try to make it to his brother who will assist her and protect her. This is how she finds Ryker, Bastian, and Ethan. These three men are just.... chefs kiss. They are so protective, loving, sweet, just everything she needs in her life right about now. I enjoyed watching her character grow with the three of them at her side. The spice was perfect and not too over the top. I just love how they help her heal through their tenderness and care. But her husband, well, he's used to getting his way and he is determined to find her and punish her for ever leaving him. Each of these men were so different, yet they were all exactly what she needed to overcome the trauma. This was an amazing start to the series! I highly recommend giving this a read, just please check the trigger warnings before getting into this one!!
Profile Image for Kymber Jones.
382 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2025
Wren Fox's book Claimed by the Damed is the first book in the Wicked Sanctuary series, a fun, exciting, and deeply moving adventure that takes a young woman from a living nightmare to a place she is loved, cherished, and shown how to stand on her own two feet.

Ms. Fox's ability to use care and understanding when broaching such a sensitive topic as domestic violence is admired as readers are able to enjoy the story and not feel as if she is belittling such a serious situation.

While every situation is different, Ms. Fox does a great job showcasing the main female character's growth from being a victim of domestic violence to becoming a rescuee, and finally a survivor bent on being able to survive regardless of what life hands her. It just helps when her husband's enemies want to help her learn to stand on her own.

Claimed by the Damned is a book full of anger, loss, hope, but most especially love. Love for one's friends, love for one's partner, and most importantly, love for oneself.
Profile Image for Amanda.
423 reviews11 followers
August 13, 2025
This spicy why choose romance novel is going to have you on your toes!

Lila is running from Kolya and she runs right into the arms of Ethan, Bastian and Ryker. What better way to run then into the arms of multiple men who can take care of your every need.

Claimed by the Damned follows the story of Lila who is running from her husband? But hey, the man is a monster so, I would run to if I am being honest. Once the trio of men find out what and who Lila is running from there is a full court press of protection for the woman they are all insanely attracted to.

Although Lila is very guarded and keeps everything close to the chest Ethan, Bastian, and Ryker do a great job of ensuring that she feels safe and protected enough to share her story.

If you're looking for some broody men who love to take care of their lovers then Claimed by the Damned should be in your TBR.



Profile Image for Tiffany(Nightshadowitch).
276 reviews15 followers
May 21, 2025
This is one of my most fave tropes I just love the RH stories. This one is so full of emotion, survival, learning to trust. The mfc has to learn how to live again after such horrible trama. These men are parts of a puzzle with each putting her back together. This is a slow build romance and its perfect it really shows the healing and the love that results.There are twists and turns and its so consuming when you get started. I loved that it focused on the healing and the mens parts all in her journey are just so beautifuly written. This is a new author to me and i will be looking for more. 10/10 recommend to anyone that can handle the trigger warning list. Its a must read
638 reviews5 followers
October 18, 2025
This book follows the prequel to Wicked Sanctuary, Before She Was Claimed, and it is another fantastic Mafia story! I loved the interactions between Lila and Bastian, Ethan and Ryker and two other important men, Grim and Theo. and hated Nikolai. Others have given this book 5 stars and I totally agree with them. Thank you, Ms. Fox, I give this more than 5 stars and plan to read the rest of the series!!!


Profile Image for Francheska .
872 reviews
May 28, 2025
Delilah is a survivor! Her abusive ex, Nikolai is the russian mob boss . She ends up in a small town Ethan is the golden retriever, a hacker . Ryker is the most unhinged of the trio . Bastian is the cold and ruthless CEO who is a control freak but cannot resist her pool .

the men run Wicked Santuary, a private security firm . they offer her trust and a future.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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