When Hearts Unravel

The Orchid #6

by Victoria Lum

He’s her patient. She’s his last chance. And breaking the rules was never part of the treatment plan. But when obsession meets unraveling, someone always gets burned.

Dr. Olivia Lin never wanted to treat Rex Anderson, the reckless billionaire with a grin like sin and a death wish to match. But taking the case aboard a private cruise means funding for her mental health nonprofit and confronting a grief she’s never escaped. So she says yes, even when every instinct tells her to run.

Rex doesn’t want help. Therapy is a smokescreen to keep his family off his back. But Olivia is sharper than he expected. She sees through his charm and finds the fractures. And worse, she makes him feel.

As the luxury cruise winds through glittering ports, Olivia is drawn deeper into Rex’s world of secrets and sin. The line between them doesn’t just blur—it shatters.

But Rex is hiding more than heartache. And the closer they get to their final destination, the more dangerous it becomes—for their hearts, their futures and their lives.

Because some patients want to be healed. And some were made to destroy everything.

Note: Victoria's books are standalones and can be read out of order.

Tropes in When Hearts UnravelDoctor and Patient
Opposites Attract
Contempt to Love
Forbidden
Age Gap
Billionaire
Broken, Broody, and Unhinged Hero
Forced Proximity
European Cruise
Adults Only Club
Touch Her and You’ll Regret It
Secrets and Twists
Angsty and Spicy
Interconnected Standalone (Can Be Read Out of Order)

Genres: Forced Proximity, Romance, Mental Health, Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, Forbidden Romance, Forbidden Love

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2025

About the author

Victoria is a lover of all things romance, including movies, books, and television shows. A hopeless romantic since childhood, she is always dreaming up stories and happily ever afters. Caramel lattes are her fuel in the morning and she can usually be found reading anything she can get her hands on. She lives with her family and a beautiful Siberian husky in sunny California.

Reviews

[Victoria Lum]

Dearest Readers and Friends,

When Hearts Unravel is officially out in the world. 💔

Writing this one felt like standing at the edge of something, and saying goodbye to characters I’ve lived with for years while watching them finally find peace.

Rex and Olivia’s story began as an idea about grief and guilt, but it became so much more. It’s about learning that healing isn’t linear, that love doesn’t fix us—it just gives us the courage to try again. This book broke me in the best way while I wrote it, and I hope it reaches the part of you that still believes in second chances, even after the darkness.

This is the last story in The Orchid series, and closing this chapter is bittersweet. These characters have laughed, cried, fought, and fallen apart with me. Letting them go feels like leaving old friends behind, but I know we will see them again in the next world we're about to enter.

If you’ve been here from the beginning, or if this is your very first book by me, thank you for being part of this journey. Every message, review, reread, and reaction means more than I can ever say. 💜

Here’s to love that unravels us, heals us, and stays anyway.
And I can't wait to see you on the dark side with my next series, The Antihero Syndicate.

With love and gratitude,

Victoria

[Jess - Reader of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Hearts Unravel by Victoria Lum
The Orchid, Book 6
Interconnected Standalone

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Romance
418 Pages
🗓️ Out Now!

♥️doctor/patient
🖤forbidden
♥️opposites attract
🖤dislike to love
♥️age gap (7 years)
🖤billionaire romance
♥️a dash of mystery
🖤forced proximity
♥️touch her and regret it

📖 “Not everything has to explode like fireworks. Stars glow at night and their brightness is beautiful too.”

📖 “I’m yours, Olive. All of me, whatever’s left of me…all yours.”

Rex’s story had to be the last. It just had to. It all came together so perfectly… but not without pain. My heart cried so much for these two broken souls, one embracing hope while the other letting himself be engulfed by despair.

And can we also take a moment to acknowledge we were so needing a cruise romance because all of that forced proximity was beyond marvelous. I was soooooo here for all of it.

Casey and Mia were also incredible characters who felt larger than life, transcending in a way, and making me feel so many things.

I also must admit that I was quite happy with the amount of Elias we got in this one. (Sigh)

The only thing I’m disliking right now... is leaving The Orchid. I can’t believe we reached the end of this series. It’s one of my favorites and I’m just being super selfish at this moment because I don’t want to let go... I don’t think I know how to. ahhhhh I’m staying, that’s it. I refuse. I won’t. I’ll be here forever.

[Sarah LaFata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This story of Rex & Olivia was hard to get through at times. Victoria did such an impeccable job at making me feel the visceral pain these characters had endured in their lives. Olivia was always living in her twin’s shadow and was afraid to be anything other than perfect. Rex had a difficult time and losing his mom at such a young age. The depth that Victoria gave these characters was immense. I cried right along with them. This book had such incredible tropes: sister’s best friend, doctor/patient relationship, forced proximity, huge mental health rep. As someone who suffers from mental illness, I appreciate that it was essentially the building blocks of this book. Mental health has always been stigmatized and I’m happy when authors are willing to delve into it. This book was superb and you should add it to your TBR STAT!!!

[Michelle Patton · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Hearts Unravel by Victoria Lum is a compelling story about Rex and Olivia. He’s the quintessential playboy millionaire, and she’s the psychiatrist brought in by his family to help him confront the emotional scars of his past.

If you love a morally gray MMC with intense “hurt her and you die” energy, Rex will win you over. And Olivia is just as easy to love as you learn more about her along the way. Both characters experience meaningful growth, and I appreciate that the author doesn’t take the easy route—there’s no instant healing or magical fix. Instead, she shows that true love means facing your own demons before you can truly help someone else. Oh, and the spice? Absolutely scorching! 🔥

[Amanda - leftamongthepages · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
⭐️ 5/5
📅 October 10, 2025

❤️ Doctor/Patient Romance
❤️ Forced Proximity (Luxury Cruise!)
❤️ Billionaire MMC
❤️ Grief & Healing
❤️ Found Family
❤️ Slow Burn → Scorching Heat

“What are you doing there, little lamb?” AHHHH I’ve missed the Andersons so much.

This book hooked me from page one and didn’t let go. When Hearts Unravel is dark, emotional, and full of forbidden tension that builds until it explodes. Olivia and Rex’s chemistry? Absolutely electric. Every therapy session felt like a power struggle wrapped in heartbreak and heat.

The way this story explores grief, guilt, and healing hit me so hard. Olivia’s emotional depth and Rex’s journey toward redemption were beautifully written, it was raw, messy, and real. And when Rex finally lets his walls down? My heart broke. 😭 I loved seeing Rex really fight for Olivia, especially when he learned to make her favorite dish! LIKE HELLO 😍

I loved seeing the Anderson family again, they’re chaotic, loyal, and full of heart. And that extra prologue?! I was not ready. Elias and Lana… I’m already counting down the days for their book 👀

Emotional, sexy, and deeply human, this story was everything I wanted and more.

CW/TW: grief, loss, mental health struggles, suicidal themes.

[_.chaosandcaffeine._ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of When Hearts Unravel from the author, and this review is my honest opinion.

⭐ 4.89 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨

LONG LIVE ELIAS KENT — and hurry up with his and Lana’s story because I cannot breathe waiting for it. Also Rex and Olivia, thank you for making me grief, heal, smile, and remember that love is really just about never giving up, no matter how messy.

---

Plot / Brief Summary

Dr. Olivia Lin never meant to treat Rex Anderson — reckless billionaire, heartbreaker, and walking magnet for chaos — but the funding for her nonprofit depends on it. Cue: one month aboard a private cruise, a therapy setup Rex doesn’t take seriously, and two people circling each other until boundaries blur and sparks get dangerously real. And while Olivia is supposed to keep her distance, Rex’s grief and bravado make him the kind of man you want to both strangle and cradle at the same time. The more their walls crack, the more explosive and healing their connection becomes.

---

Atmosphere, Tone & Setting

This book literally stranded me on a floating therapy room disguised as a cruise party. One whole month of champagne, secrets, and unresolved trauma — basically “Love Island: Billionaire Trauma Edition.” The tone swings between sizzling chemistry and gut-wrenching therapy breakthroughs, like someone strapped romance and psychology to a rocket and let it burn.

---

Characters

Rex Anderson: The golden boy joker who’s been making others laugh while forgetting how to smile for real. A walking mask of charm hiding heartbreak so deep even the sea couldn’t drown it.

Dr. Olivia Lin: Prim, proper, scheduled to death — until she realizes perfection is its own prison. Watching her unravel while falling for Rex felt like seeing “eldest daughter syndrome” given flesh. (Yes, she reminded me of Taylor’s Eldest Daughter song. No, I won’t shut up about it.)

And can we please acknowledge Elias and Lana stealing the spotlight like they already own the next book? Subtle, Lum. So subtle.

---

Critical Analysis

Victoria Lum has this weirdly original “unoriginal” signature: every single character carries a different mental health scar. Sometimes I ask myself, “Is it mandatory?” and then I remember, this is Lum. She doesn’t just sprinkle trauma in for fun — she carves it into the story until you feel it in your bones. It’s her art. Painful and beautiful.

I adored how Olivia’s perfectionism and need to move on clashed with Rex’s inability to heal himself. The therapy sessions? Gold. Raw, uncomfortable, and so necessary. Lum clearly did her homework — the psychology details felt researched, not romanticized. Honestly, half the time I was like: is she writing fiction or handing me coping strategies?

Now yes, the book dragged me through grief, therapy, messy family wounds, and romance that was both “are you two toxic?” and “no, wait, this is love at its realest.” Their relationship is equal parts curse and blessing — but isn’t that what makes the best kind of romance? The acceptance of flaws, fuck-ups, and fears — all of it.

Complaints? Oh, I have one. WHERE was my Rex + Lana sibling banter?? I missed it desperately. And yes, Elias + Lana cameo’d their way in like scene-stealing Kardashians. Not complaining (I’m obsessed), but at times it felt intentional.

---

Final Verdict

When Hearts Unravel is exactly that — messy, tender, furious, healing, everything at once. Lum has tattooed her characters into my soul, and Rex + Olivia were no exception. It’s both heartbreaking and hopeful, layered with trauma, therapy, and love that refuses to quit.

So here I am, emotionally wrecked, half in love with a fictional therapist, half screaming for Elias and Lana’s book already. Long live the Orchid series — and may Victoria Lum never stop giving us characters to break and heal with.

⭐ 4.89 stars — because my Rex-a-million deserved more Lana banter, but otherwise, utter perfection.

[Emmy Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was an emotional masterpiece. I lobe a good taboo therapist x patient romance but this one was so deeply painful yet so beautiful. It was so well written, you can feel the emotions radiating off the characters and off the page. My heart is in ruins after that book, because yes it did have a happy ending so don’t worry, but it broke my heart into a million pieces and touched every part of my soul. This book is about two broken, traumatised people who feel lost and lonely. He’s a billionaire playboy and she’s a listened therapist but their traumas are similar in so many ways. Both of them feel responsible for deaths of those dear to them and have held onto it for their whole lives. The only time they feel free, is when they are with each other. And that’s what makes this book so special to me. Because I understand what it feels like to put on a mask, and play a part so convincing that sometimes you can even fool yourself, but meeting that person who you can be yourself with is life changing. It’s beautiful, it’s love at its core. Seeing someone for who they are, all the messed up parts of them, and loving them despite that. At its core that’s what this book is about. The plot was great, he knew he was broken, so they tried for temporary relationship, when the cruise trip ends, so do they. But the love they fostered can’t be that simply removed, and if they want to be together after they’ll have to do a lot of work to sort their trauma. What’s more beautiful is how Rex was willing to help himself, something that’s terrifying to do, because he wanted to better himself for her. And he’s the sweetest, he makes her favourite pasta from scratch, actually stops his substance abuse, and more. He needs her like he needs air and I’m so touched. I loved this plots there were honestly so many amazing twists and thsi book touched on many mental health topics too. I give it a 5/5. Ooh and I loved that Olivia has Chinese immigrant parents, as a former Chinese immigrant kid myself, I related to her a lot. Especially with the “did you eat yet?” Being a love language

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received an ARC for this book)

Trigger Warnings include:
This book has a heavy focus on mental health. This includes depression, substance misuse/abuse/relience, suicide (not graphic and not a main character), suicidal thoughts, self-harm (via substance misuse/abuse/relience and mentions of cutting in the past), PTSD, and grief/loss of loved ones.
Other triggering content includes gun violence, murder (not main characters), doctor/patient relationship (handled with care, and not condoned by the author or myself in real life), consensual BDSM and degradation kink

It happened. I officially have a favorite MMC for the series. Mr. Rex Anderson. I was in a constant state of needing to hug him. He ripped my heart right out! But he wasn’t alone in causing me pain, Olivia was right there with him! She is fully wedged into his family circle. And on top of that, she’s the resident psychiatrist. And now she’s on his fancy cruise ship, and he’s trying to pretend he’s not melting for her every mile at sea. They both lost, living for others, and barely surviving at the same time. They share an unexpected vulnerability, and realize their demons are pretty similar. Olivia doesn’t know how to let go and take chances, out of fear. And Rex doesn’t know how to stop taking chances, out of fear. I cried with them. My heart screamed with them. Loving each other was easy, accepting that love was a tear soaked journey of self discovery and DESTROYING ME in all the best ways!

After spending some proper time with Elias in his darkness, I am MORE than thrilled to jump into his book and the connected series!

My Favorite Quotes:
• “I’ll kill anyone who hurts you.”
• “I never forget, and you make me forget. I feel normal around you.”
• “You need me, don’t you? Desperate for my c!ck. Well, come get it. It’s all yours.”
• “Taking me like a good sl!t, aren’t you?”
• “You f!cking undo me.”
• “Will you let me corrupt you? Even though I don’t deserve you? Will you burn in hell with me?”
• “I want you. Every part of you. I want you to wear my marks on your skin so everyone knows you’re mine.”
• “God, you drive me out of my mind. I want to dirty you up. I want to love and destroy you. I want to put you on a f!cking pedestal and worship you. I can’t control myself around you.”
• “Thank you for seeing me.”
• “You’re my obsession. So f!cking delicious, so f!cking mine.”
• “Every part of me exists for you.”
• “You’re my star, my sun, my gravity.”

8/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Forbidden
4/10 Forced Proximity
7/10 Second Chance
6/10 The CEO Type
8/10 Series

This is my review for When Hearts Ignite
This is my review for When Hearts Collide
This is my review for When Hearts Surrender
This is my review for When Hearts Awaken
This is my review for When Hearts Remember

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spice: 3

Tropes:
doctor x patient
forbidden romance
age gap
billionaire romance
forced proximity
touch her and die
secrets
mental health rep
Dual POV

Victoria Lum's books are some of my favorite reads over the last two years. Each book, seriously, just got better and better in the Orchid Series. I'm sad it's ending (but man I'm excited for what's next lol). What I loved about When Hearts Unravel was not only was it a forbidden/forced proximity romance - which are 2 of my favorite tropes - but Rex, our MMC, was definitely a tortured soul. And Victoria KNOWS how to write the perfect tortured heart. When Hearts Unravel, while had it's banter and sexy moments, was full of heart clinching moments, emotional trauma, and just deep topics that while break you, also make you crave more. I seriously can't get enough of these characters/stories.

This time around we get to dive into Rex Anderson, the youngest son of the Anderson clan. We've always known him as the funny guy. The ladies man. The one with the charm and charisma. But what he's hiding right in plain sight... the pain, the guilt, the mental health issues, makes you want to wrap your arms around him and tell him it's all going to be okay. The depth to Rex was beautiful and I think he's one of my favorite Anderson men now! He carries a lot, and I love nothing more than emotional baggage in my fictional men lol.

Dr. Olivia, our smart FMC. We've gotten glimpses of Olivia in past books as she's friends with the Anderson ladies. However, now was her time to shine. I wasn't sure what to expect but her backstory, her own emotional guilt/trauma wasn't it. I actually really enjoyed Olivia's story, all on her own, even without Rex in the picture. She represents a very realistic person to many readers, I think, with her Chinese/American culture and being a twin.

Overall, the these two trauma bonded souls were perfection. I loved the setting in this book- it takes place on an European cruise for a month. I thought that was fun and unique. Makes me want a cruise lol. Also, I love how the new series was woven into this one so flawlessly. Elias Kent has been on my radar for a while and Lana... girl I. Am. READY.

[Akku · Rating 5 out of 5]

✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 5✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - October 10, 2025

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• forbidden love
• doctor/patient
• opposites attract
• age gap
• forced proximity
• luxury cruise
• emotional healing
• secret past

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
When Hearts Unravel is such an emotional, angsty, and swoony read. Dr. Olivia Lin is strong, caring, and smart, but she never thought helping her patient would turn into something so complicated. Rex Anderson is that perfect mix of mysterious, brooding, and dangerously attractive. Their chemistry is instant and makes your heart race with every interaction.
The luxury European cruise is such a dreamy setting. It feels glamorous and romantic but also adds this perfect tension where they can’t escape each other. I loved how the story slowly reveals Rex’s past and why he acts so closed-off, it adds so much depth to the romance. Olivia’s heart and mind are so relatable, and watching her navigate her feelings while staying professional made me root for her even more.
The forbidden doctor/patient trope is written beautifully. The tension, the longing, the stolen moments everything is done in a way that feels real and intense. Every scene between Olivia and Rex is full of emotions, little heart-flip moments, and secrets that keep you hooked till the end.
The romance is passionate, emotional, and heartwarming at the same time. The story also explores healing, trust, and opening your heart to love again. I couldn’t stop smiling, swooning, and feeling all the butterflies with this book. It’s a perfect standalone, yet it also gives the lovely vibes of The Orchid series.
Thank you so much the author agency for the free ARC!

[Iceball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rex and Olivia's story is finally here!!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

The thing that I like the most about Victoria lum's work is that her writing makes you literally feel the character's emotions. It's vivid, it's deep, and it's genuine.

❤🔥❤

Rex's story is about how a person makes another version of themselves in front of the whole world but inside there is hollowness and only the right person can fill it. when those two people who are meant to be together connects, that's when the world starts to make sense.
❤🔥❤
Olivia is a renowned doctor- a psychiatrist- and she is determined to help people get heal because of her past and Rex is a billionaire- the third son in the Anderson family- feels left out, has childhood trauma and he thinks that he can't share his problems to anyone because he is the reason for everyone's pain. And as his mental health spirals downwards, he believes no one can save him. Till he met Olivia and starts to believe that life is worth living!
💗💗
Beautiful story, beautifully written, awesome storyline.

Funny, dark and easy going!

LOVED IT!!

[Jeannette Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

4.75/5 ⭐️

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Victoria’s writing is amazing and I am absolutely obsessed with her stories. The angst, the spice, the secrets are always on point and this book delivered. Olivia resonated with me so much, always trying to be the perfect one, the rule follower but eventually that can make you resent yourself. And Rex was a damaged, heartbroken man who blamed himself for everything, especially things out of his control. The forbidden aspect of this story was a great plot point but didn’t feel so forbidden you didn’t want them to get together. The backstories of both characters added to their angst and push to each other which I absolutely loved in this book.

This story was heartbreaking and satisfying, and I loved how this story was the last in the series.

[Cal D · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed my first Victoria Lum book, featuring loss and love and guilt and spice and angst!

THOUGHTS 💭
🛥️ Both of our MCs are “holding it together,” when they very much don’t have anything together. Both have experienced soul-crushing losses that they’re trying to navigate.
🛥️ The. Mouth. On. Rex!!! 🫠 The spice was spicy and stolen moments and the forbidden-ness of their romance were just so excellent!
🛥️ Olivia is a relatable eldest daughter/good girl/people pleaser. She’s smart and holds her own.
🛥️ I love when the playboy finally falls for the right woman!
🛥️ There is so much adventure in this book, alongside heartbreak and sadness. Our characters are exploring the Mediterranean on a cruise and it’s so fun to “be” with them in these dreamy locations.

Thanks so much to Victoria Lum and The Author Agency for the ARC of this book!

[Jen | The Jenny Edit · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

As the 6th book is the orchid series of interconnected standalones, this book delivered for me.

boy, does Victoria ever KNOW how to write a tortured soul. mmc Rex is the epitome — and his journey is harrowing in so many ways. The story is packed full of moments that take your breath away; lots of emotionally impactful scenes, and so many captivatingly heartbreaking moments that shatter you a bit — while compelling you to turn the page.

I love this series for its depth, for its creativity and its poetic writing. It has characters you won’t forget and storylines that will nestle into your soul. Cannot say enough about this book and series.

Thanks to Victoria for having me on her team and for this arc!

[Jasmine Durham · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

Rating 5/5

Baaayyybbbeee this book here 🤯. The pain and grief these two wen through is ultimately what drew them to each other. It follow Olivia (FMC) and Rex (MMC) on a relationship that should’ve never happened but was destined to happen. She was his psychiatrist and he was her patient. Their paths had crossed long before then but they hadn’t interacted with each other. Both of them were trying to out run the demons of their minds but they saw each other in ways no one else did. This book will definitely have you in your feels but the pain they experienced made them getting their HEA that much sweeter.

Thank you so much to Victoria for the copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own 💜💜

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Hearts Unravel is such an intriguing opposite attract with lots of secrets and twists. This is Rex and Olivia’s story and it is a patient doctor romance on a European cruise with a lot of spice. I love the interaction they have and the forbidden chemistry between them. They both are dealing with past trauma and pushes each other to do better. I also like the hidden threat that adds more to Rex’s character and the secrets him and his family want to get rid of. Their story is action filled, emotional and will have you at the edge of your seat. I really enjoy their story and can’t wait to read the others

I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance reader copy.

[Elie Hernalsteen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I even say about this book—except that I devoured it in just three hours? The moment it hit my Kindle, I knew I had to start reading, and once I did, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.

I’ve loved Rex ever since I first met him, and I was so eager for his story. He didn’t disappoint—he was everything I hoped for and more. Honestly, he might just be the most beautiful character in the entire series. Even though I’ve always had a soft spot for his big brother Maxwell, there’s something truly special about Rex. Maybe it’s because he reminds me so much of myself. So many of his feelings felt like my own—it was as if the author had written my heart on the page.

This book touched me deeply because grief is such a powerful, difficult emotion to capture. Sometimes words aren’t enough, but this story helped me face my own grief. Victoria is right: sometimes we don’t need all the answers to keep moving forward, and that message stayed with me.

Liv was incredible—a strong, inspiring woman. I’m so glad Rex had her by his side. She broke my heart too, but in the most beautiful way. The way she fought for herself, even while her parents were drowning in their own pain, made her unforgettable.

This book was darker than the others in the series, but it suited Rex perfectly. He needed to walk through that darkness so he could finally find his light in Liv. And what a powerful light she was. It also set up the next series perfectly—I can already tell it’s going to be breathtaking and heartbreaking in the best way, and I can’t wait to read it!

[Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rex and Olivia, oh my goodness. This story is timeless. Did I cry? Absolutely! These characters go through so much together and apart that my heart truly hurts for them. I know almost exactly what Olivia is going through and my heart breaks for her. Rex has taken us on a ride (and I ALWAYS knew he would be my favorite). Rex didn’t disappoint. They both deserve their happy endings. 💕

I would recommend this story a million times over. Rex and Olivia are truly kismet and perfect for each other!

Thank you so much Victoria Lum for allowing me to read this story as an ARC reader. All of these thoughts are my own and I truly loved this story so much.

[Bethany Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and Rex battling their grief and guilt together. Olivia tries to help Rex as his psychiatrist but things turned heated I’m glad Rex gets the help he needs and Olivia gets out of the shadow of her grief. I would have liked more therapy sessions but over all was a great book with so many emotions. I teared up so much and LOVE A HAPPY ENDING!

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

We must protect Rex Anderson at all cost! This man is so beautiful and cares for everyone! He’s too cute for words! The mental health representation in this was so beautifully done, I loved every second of it. I do believe Rex is my favorite Anderson, sorry Maxwell!

[els (altair's version) · Rating 4 out of 5]

anytime elias was mentioned, i’d start giggling and twirling my hair

[Rebekah Godfrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's so bitter sweet to see this series come to an end but it was so perfect!
The angst was so good! There were times I wanted to cry my eyes out and other times that made me laugh out loud. If you love an MMC who uses humor has a coping mechanism and an FMC who can see through all of his BS, then this is the book for you!

[Bethiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

What can I say about this book!!! It had me laughing, crying g and on the edge of my seat with all the action. And the romance...swoon!!

Rex is the typical rich playboy...or is he? He seems to be going through something and his family gives him an ultimatum to get help on the cruise that he started or they will take matters into their own hands.

Dr. Olivia Lin is the doctor they brought on to help Rex. But through it all, they start having feelings for each other.

The way they resisted each other was because it's forbidden... a doctor/patient relationship can't happen. After all that resistance, they gave in.

This book had me all up in my feels. Olivia and Rex's chemistry was off the charts. I love how Rex thought of Olivia as his light in the darkness. This book is a bit dark so please check your trigger warnings.

This was an amazing conclusion to the series and an amazing start to her new series.

Thank you to Victoria Lum for the book.

[Jennifer Squillante · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such an emotional rollercoaster that I am not even sure where I should start this review. There is just something in the way that Victoria Lum writes that allows readers to feel the full spectrum of emotions.

Beautiful, Beautiful Rex. I have never met a more broken( which isn’t even the right word for him) MMC. I the hurt and pain that he has carried since he was a kid and the mask he thought he needed to wear to please everyone else is completely heartbreaking. That is a lot of weight to carry for such a. Long time, it is no wonder why he has become who we have met throughout the series.

Olivia Lin, she is carrying her own pain and hurt. Like Rex, she too wearing a mask. Her need to be the perfect everything was a role she took on after tragedy struck her and she has been stuck in it ever since, that is until she meets Rex.

The two of them together is the perfect storm waiting to happen. The push and pull and tension these two bring to the page is fire. The build up and the comedown hit me just the way they were supposed to. I laughed, cried, got angry and I would willingly do it all over again. Rex and Olivia are ones I wish I could read for the first time.



Thank you Victoria Lum for the ARC!

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my second Victoria Lum book and I cannot wait to read more of her work.

First of all the enemies to lovers style tension and banter is SO good.
The forced proximity- *YES, PLEASE!*
Doctor and patient- say less👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Age gap - ummm, who doesn’t like one?!
Billionaire mmc- who doesn’t wish they had one in real life?!
Angsty AND spicy- THANK YOU, Victoria! 😉😘


Seriously, JUST READ IT 😎💕

[Sarah~Book Obsession Confessions · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fantastic romance had so many more facets than I expected and it worked so well. I don’t want to give too much detail, I think it’s best experienced without knowing too many details.
I love that it has a tortured hero AND tortured heroine. Rex and Olivia are opposites but, both are tormented, guilt ridden and faking happiness for those around them.
I also love taboo romance and as Olivia is Rex’s new Psychiatrist and sister’s best friend … it’s very taboo and oh, so intriguing.
They are on the maiden voyage of Rex’s ultra luxurious and exclusive vacation cruise liner.
His family has backed him into a corner, he’s agreed to therapy with Olivia, but he’s not taking it seriously.
Things do not go as planned for Rex or Olivia. The chemistry is off the charts, their connection grows and I was rooting for this unconventional couple.
The steam and spice are HOT!
It has fantastic mental health rep.
It has so much character depth and the wonderful story had me hooked. It’s so beautifully written, I love the story and characters so much.
This is a must read!

[B.B. Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚

⭐️Goodread Rating: 4.55/5⭐️
💫My Rating: 4.5/5 💫

Rounded up for Goodreads

⚠️Trigger Warnings ⚠️

Grief/lost of a loved one, suicide (not graphic, not the main characters), suicidal thoughts, consensual BDSM/degradation kink, gun violence, explicit sex, mental health struggles, depression, substance misuse/abuse/reliance, doctor/patient relationship (handled with care; this type of relationship is NOT condoned in real life), self-harm (via substance misuse/abuse/reliance and mentions of cutting in the past), murder (not of the main characters), PTSD.

‼️Disclaimer: My review is written based on the reading experience and does not include my therapeutic opinion and/or views.‼️

📝My Review📝

In a world of secrets and forbidden desires, Rex finds his facade is crumbling before him. Drowning in the past and attempting to atone for it, he doesn’t realize that his past is actually catching up to him and he now is the new focus of concern for the Anderson family. Confronted by his family, Rex is faced with an ultimatum. He must participate in counseling or he will loose his role as manager on the Fleur Entertainment Holdings’ new cruise, which he spent months planning for.

Cornered into accepting therapy, Rex finds that the therapist, Olivia, isn’t like any therapist he’s had before. Not only is she a family friend and therapist for another brother, she is a striking, persistent, and observant goddess. Yet, to Rex’s surprise she also appears to have her own secrets and desires.

Determined to unravel each others secrets, Olivia and Rex find themselves entangled in more than just their secrets. Knee deep in desire, lust, grief, atonement, and haunted pasts, Rex and Olivia must find a way out of these bindings. Yet, if they wait too long, these bindings just may suffocate them and they may loose each other, or worse, themselves.

In Victoria Lum’s latest edition to the Orchid Series, forbidden love is explored in a similar manner like her prior novel When Hearts Collide. While the prior book explored a teacher student relationship, this new novel, When Hearts Unravel, explores the love and intimacy between a therapist and a patient. As my disclaimer stated above and the TW stated on Lum’s website, this type of relationship is NOT condoned in real life and it does not reflect my own therapeutic opinion and/or view.
However based purely on my reading experience, Lum effectively made this particular romance steamy and enjoyable!

Like all the other novels in this series, this book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the prior books first. A reader will be able to follow along and enjoy the novel even if you haven’t read the others, but building the background and witnessing the overall story arc will only elevate your experience. The character development throughout the series is done tastefully, and as a dedicated reader of the series you do create attachments based on these developments. Lum does an excellent job painting a handsome, troubled billionaire who leaves the reader full of desire. Then fuels the feminist heart by depicting a determined, goal oriented woman who wins the heart of the billionaire. While hardship does occur, Lum does a magnificent job of not making the MFC look weak and need the MMC to “bail” them out. Typically and especially in this novel, the MFC struggled but figures things out enough to survive. When the MMC comes in, he isn’t necessarily saving her but rather helps her further.

As a music therapist who works with grief on a day-to-day basis, I truly appreciated the grief representation. Yes many novels do have grief representation, but in When Hearts Unravel, Lum explored it in a multi-layer complexity which not all novels explore to this extent within the storyline. Grief and trauma are truly embedded and are at the core of the storyline for this novel, which manifests an array of emotions to experience as the reader. This is not your typical saucy romance novel, it is filled with mystery, raw emotions, and a level of thrill that will keep you wanting more.

[Natasha Deen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic ending to an epic series

Victoria Lum has stolen my heart yet again with this book. It gave me all the feels and I could not put it down. This book was everything! It broke my heart, made me smile and swoon, had me on the edge of my seat, all at the same time. It is definitely an emotional, and beautifully written story that digs deep into grief, guilt, and healing.

Who would have thought that the party boy Rex Anderson and the good doctor, Olivia Lin were both hiding behind masks. This book definitely showed a different side to them than what was portrayed in the previous books, these were two people who were both carrying heavy emotional scars and trauma.

There was always an underlying something between Rex and Olivia but when she decided to be the psychiatrist on board the Andersons' flag ship cruise and take Rex on as a patient at the same time, sparks ignited between them.

Their chemistry was palpable and electrifying. Although they tried to fight off the forbidden attraction,when they eventually gave in it was deliciously hot.

Together, they forced each other to confront their pain and face the parts of themselves they had both been avoiding.
Their connection was messy, passionate, and healing all at once.

I absolutely loved Rex. He was misunderstood which broke my heart but he was very thoughtful where his family was concerned. He had a dirty mouth which had my heart racing and he was so sweet with Olivia I was swooning. Olivia was his beacon of light in the dark storm he was living in.

The pain and hurt Olivia was dealing wirh was sad . It was shocking to realise how alone she felt. Thanks to Rex though , she found who she truly was and began to enjoy life. These two were perfect for each other. They were what the other needed to live and love themselves.

I thoroughly enjoyed and loved the epilogue and extend epilogues for this series. Getting a glimpse of my favs a few years ahead was perfection.

Victoria Lum wowed me with the depth and emotional pull of this book. She addressed heartbreaking issues in a delicate and relatable manner and yet still added the element of suspense to it all. She als showed the hard parts of love, that it’s not always about romance, but also about growth, forgiveness, and learning to truly see yourself.

This book was a fantastic conclusion to one of my favorite series .Victoria Lum deserves all the praise for this book and this series. I am excited for what is to come next!!

[Kascha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A darkly romantic gem that balances emotional depth, sizzling chemistry, and thrilling suspense.

Dr. Olivia Lin, a dedicated therapist, never intended to treat Rex Anderson, a reckless billionaire with a self-destructive streak. But when she’s offered an opportunity on a cruise, she’s forced to confront her past and take on his case. Rex has no intention of accepting help - therapy is just a way to appease his family. As Olivia digs deeper, she uncovers his emotional scars and finds herself drawn into his dangerous world. As their connection intensifies, the boundaries between patient and doctor blur, and dark secrets threaten to unravel everything - putting both their hearts and lives at risk.

While the cruise liner serves as a backdrop, it’s the richly described locations (historic cities, breathtaking vistas, and luxurious excursions) that bring the journey to life. The vivid sightseeing scenes immerse readers in a whirlwind of European beauty, giving the story a transportive quality that complements the emotional voyage of the characters.

Just like all of her characters, Rex and Olivia are down to earth and relatable. Both are outsiders in their own lives, navigating the heavy shadows of grief. Olivia masks her pain with perfectionism and ambition, while Rex plays the charming, reckless womanizer. Beneath these facades, however, lies a shared ache that binds them.

Their forced proximity ignites an intense and turbulent relationship. Their initial animosity simmers with tension, only to erupt into undeniable chemistry. Their dynamic is a tantalizing push-and-pull, a dance of control and vulnerability. When their walls finally come down, the spice is explosive, with Rex’s magnetism awakening Olivia’s sexy wild side.

The darker undertones of the series remain potent. The doctor-patient dynamic adds a thrilling moral complexity, forcing Olivia to grapple with ethics, professional boundaries, and her own heart. The romance never shies away from risk, and that ever-present tension makes their love feel earned, real, and necessary. The ongoing plotline involving The Association brings violence and death. This looming threat ensures that even the most tender moments are underscored by urgency, making the stakes incredibly high.

When Hearts Unravel is a beautiful, brutal, and passionate story about two people learning to truly live again. It’s a testament to the power of grief, the strength it takes to overcome, and the power of love.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Hearts Unravel by Victoria Lum is a masterful and deeply emotional romance that is an absolute page-turner. I devoured this story in just a day; the moment I started, I couldn't stop reading. The book expertly combines sizzling chemistry, deep emotional honesty, and high-stakes suspense, making it instantly addictive.

The story centers on a forbidden romance built on desperation and proximity. Dr. Olivia Lin, a strong and inspiring woman, takes on the case of the reckless billionaire Rex Anderson aboard a private cruise. Olivia sees this as a necessary chance to secure funding for her mental health nonprofit and confront her own long-buried grief. Rex, with his grin like sin and a death wish to match, only views therapy as a smokescreen to appease his family.



Rex is everything you could hope for in a broken hero. The author flawlessly captures the depth and complexity of his grief and chaos, making his journey incredibly powerful. As Olivia, the perfect calm to his storm, sees through his charm to the fractures beneath, the line between doctor and patient doesn't just blur—it shatters.

The plot is engaging and suspense-filled. The high emotion level is top-notch, shining a light on mental health and the difficult process of navigating grief. Victoria Lum provides a profound message: sometimes, we don't need all the answers to keep moving forward. This book is darker and more suspenseful than a typical romance, but it suits Rex's journey perfectly. Fair warning: the chemistry between Rex and Olivia is pure fire! Rex’s dirty talk and the intensity of their connection are incredibly potent; if you blush easily, save this one for a private reading session!

While this story is deeply satisfying as a complete experience, it features a rich world and cast of characters that hint at more to come. When Hearts Unravel is an absolutely phenomenal read that works perfectly as a standalone novel.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced review copy at no cost, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.