Crimson Codex

The Mage and His Brute #3

by Ava Marie Salinger

Some secrets are buried for a reason. But what happens when someone is willing to kill to unearth them?

Duke Evander Ravenwood is barely back on his feet after the catastrophe at the Royal Institute when he is dragged before Parliament to answer for the chaos that followed. But political scheming is the least of his concerns. The elusive mastermind he and Viggo Stonewall have hunted for months continues to tighten his grip across Europe—and their new mission to track down the legendary Crimson Codex is about to thrust them straight into his path.

From the gilded salons of Paris to the shadowed archives of Prague, from the opera houses of Vienna to the royal courts of Brussels, Evander, Viggo, and their loyal team must navigate a deadly web of conspiracy, royal intrigue, and dark mages who will stop at nothing to claim the Codex’s power.

With shadows closing in and allies emerging from the most unexpected places, Evander and Viggo will have to risk everything to stop a conspiracy that could plunge Europe into a new age of darkness.

A sweeping tale of magic, mystery, and forbidden passion, Crimson Codex continues The Mage and His Brute with heart-pounding adventure and a romance forged in fire. Perfect for fans of historical fantasy and LGBTQ+ romance.

Genres: Mystery, Historical, M M Romance, Paranormal, Magic, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy

396 pages, ebook

Published January 20, 2026

About the author

Ava Marie Salinger is the romance pen name of an Amazon bestselling author with a passion for writing addictive tales. Known for her action-packed and thrilling urban fantasy novels, she has expanded her repertoire with the introduction of the M/M urban fantasy romance series Fallen Messengers. Additionally, she has penned the scorching hot contemporary M/M romance series Nights and Twilight Falls as A.M. Salinger. When not immersed in her writing, Ava can be found curating inspiring music playlists, indulging in her love for nature, marveling at the latest gadgets, and savoring Chinese cuisine.

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Reviews

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Part of my review from book one
As a Special Investigator for the Arcane Division of the Metropolitan Police, Duke Evander Ravenwood has seen his share of unspeakable oddities. Evander is an incredibly talented Archmage, capable of controlling the elements, using them to solve crimes. Viggo, (the Ironfist Brute) has incredible strength and formidable intelligence. People find him fascinating, the equivalent of a rockstar in Victorian England.**

This time the Duke and his motley crew are searching for the Crimson Codex (“A repository of forbidden knowledge”), the oldest of magical texts. Their most dangerous quest yet. Dark forces are gathering, putting the fate of the whole world as they know it in question. The magical aspect was intensified, truly showing the depth of the dark magic the Duke and his allies are facing.

The descriptions of the Victorian era are vivid. From the oppressing slums to the glittering ballrooms. All brought to life in expressive detail.

I really like the supporting characters. Even the “spy”. They bring a sense of levity to the book.

As for the Duke and his Brute…spicy doesn’t really even begin to describe their relationship. It seemed in this book that they really settled into what they have become to mean to each other.

This is a series that really needs to be read in order to get the full understanding and enjoyment out of it.

Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander and Viggo are back, this time going intercontinental in their search for those looking to destroy the current system and rebuild in a horrifying image.
The mystery and action that takes place throughout the story is intriguing and gripping and risks are taken and people's lives are in jeopardy. The group they have travelling with them are both extremely helpful and, in the case of Agent Shaw, an extreme light relief. The things that that woman says aloud had me laughing out as I was reading.
Evander and Viggo may not be able to be as open/visible about their relationship, especially overseas, but you can feel the connection and chemistry they share, bonding them even when apart, whether across a room or a city.
We meet those from higher society and the hidden depths as the group looks to uncover the secrets of the codex before their enemy.
I cannot recommend this book and series enough! It is one to be read in order due to the series arc. The group of characters make it entertaining and form quite the comradery despite the multitude of different backgrounds, which I think actually helps them even more as they can cover more ground and a wider breadth of investigation.
I'm very excited to see what comes in the next book, for both our MC's and with the mysterious 'I' still out there.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hated the beginning of this one, and it was so hard! Beckett is truly despicable, and Winchester, and I… so many bad people around my beloved Viggo and Evander. I thought this one was the last book, but it isn’t. And even though the cliffhanger is torture, I’m happy I don’t have to let go of so many amazing characters just yet. Solomon and Ginny are so cute! I love how these books aren’t just about one thing or one couple, they’re full of magic, mystery, intrigues, dastardly characters in opposition to amazing ones, love in all shapes and forms, love that transcends all kinds of class and gender barriers, secrets, near escapes for good and bad guys… it’s such a joy to read! Except for Beckett. Yeah, Winchester and “I” are bad, but Beckett is worse. Under the protection of his position and power he messes my beloved Evander, and I can’t forgive him for that. The characters are so rich and well written, it’s easy to connect with them and cheer them on, as well as “boo” the bad ones. Fascinating story, incredible continuation, impossible to put down until the end, with twists and turns and cliffhangers galore, but a very satisfying progress on Evander’s and Viggo’s love life, and also that of their friends. This book is full of little side stories that enrich it, and make it more enjoyable, and I can’t wait for the next one to come out!

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander and Viggo are back in the third of the continuing adventures of The Mage and His Brute. Picking up where the last book ended, we have Evander called to a hostile meeting with Parliament. That is the least of his problems as the elusive mastermind is still out there and ready to wreak havoc on Europe. Leaving to address this, the two men travel along with their team. They start in Paris, but the trail continues to Prague, Vienna, and Brussels. They are not the only ones after the Crimson Codex. Enemies unknown and unexpected allies are just a few of the things they encounter. With danger escalating, our heroes and their team may need to risk everything to stop them.

It is so good to have another book in this amazing series. This one has a few hints of surprises that may come in the future. The story may be dark in many ways but there is some humor added to the story by one of the team. Her remarks make for laughs for the reader and embarrassment for our heroes. The plot is well thought out and is still being unveiled with lots of little twists along the way. We shall all be sitting on the edge of our seats waiting for the next book. If you enjoy paranormal in all its glory, this one is for you.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Sheena · Rating 5 out of 5]

- series
- established couple
- urban fantasy

This is the 3rd in the Mage and his Brute series, and really needs to be read as part of the series as it's an ongoing storyline directly continued from the previous books in this series. I love the world the author has created here, I'm a sucker for anything historical and I particularly love the Victorian setting in this. The world feels quite steampunk in parts, this is a world where magic exists and is used in everyday life. I also love the characters, not just the two main characters but the side characters are pretty great too, including the introduction of a new one which I hope to see again.

The stakes are upped big time in this story and things are getting ever more perilous and darker for Evander and Viggo. There are a lot of threads to tie up before this epic is finished but I can see them coming together nicely and I am here for ALL of it. I love Evander and Viggo together and there's a nice progression of the relationship here too, and plenty of heat ♨️. I also enjoyed that our group got a road trip of sorts and I enjoyed seeing other European cities in this world.

On the whole another great entry into a series I am very much enjoying and look forward to the next instalment with great anticipation.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I was provided an electronic ARC via Gay Romance Reviews.**

Ava Marie Salinger returns to the world of The Mage and the Brute with book three in the series, Crimson Codex. The story continues shortly after book two ended with Duke Evander Ravenwood and company continuing their investigation into dark mages. The investigation takes them abroad and international allies and enemies emerge. Clues lead the way ever closer to the mysterious I.

This is absolutely a sequel and the series must be read in order. As such, this sequel is incredibly difficult to discuss without spoiling books one, two, or both. Evander, Viggo, and the rest are every bit as charming as they have ever been. Everything that I enjoyed from books one and two is back in this installment despite the necessary shifting as more characters are introduced. With most authors, new characters tend to make me a bit nervous as they have potential to be ill-fitting with the established cast. Salinger handles the shifting character list and setting in stride.

Overall, this series is an extremely underrated one that I would gladly recommend to fans of historical settings in fantasy with a driving mystery plot. The Mage and His Brute is well on its way to becoming a required shelf trophy series.

[Libros y Citas · Rating 3 out of 5]

The plot keeps going and it’s interesting, but I hope there’s no many books left because this one made me question a lot of things and not in a good way:

Maybe I’ve got it wrong but, undoing a protecting ward someone had created because they were in danger is selfish and reckless. And they just kept going not even creating a new one like there’re no dangerous people pursuing them.
It’s getting repetitive that dark mages always scape in fights through shadow manipulation, they never get a prisoner to question, or if they did the they take their life, what about incapacitate them first anyhow?
Why don’t destroy or sabotage the crate’s content? I understand the idea of tailing, just why not make the devices unusable discreetly? It’s safer.
If his mission is protecting makes no sense he obeyed orders and went to evacuate, he should have disobeyed and stay to do his job.
I don’t know what to made of only women bien kidnapped.
Why not use a surprise attack and try knock them out instead of yelling “stop”? Sorry but this was just silly.

«I promise to try (…) That’s the best I can offer.»

[Tashyka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander and Viggo return in book three of The Mage and His Brute, and the story wastes no time diving back into the action. Picking up right where the last book left off, Evander is forced into a tense confrontation with Parliament while a dangerous mastermind continues to threaten chaos across Europe.

The journey takes the team from Paris to Prague, Vienna, and Brussels in a fast-paced hunt for the Crimson Codex—one they’re clearly not alone in. Between unknown enemies, unexpected allies, and constantly rising stakes, the tension never lets up, and the risks grow more personal with every step.

This installment blends dark, high-stakes paranormal adventure with just enough humor to keep things balanced, thanks to one team member whose sharp commentary adds levity and some genuinely funny moments. The plot continues to unfold with smart twists and subtle hints at what’s coming next, making the wait for the next book almost unbearable. If you love immersive paranormal stories with strong characters, danger, and an expanding world, this series continues to deliver.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[SNik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third in series (The Mage and His Brute), must be read in order. Paranormal historical fantasy. Established couple. Found family. Dual POV.

Following the battle at the Royal Institute, Evander is facing further scrutiny from the magical nobility while champing at the bit to find the fabled Crimson Codex and keeping it from the dark mages. This story follows Evander, Viggo, and their group of comrades as they race across Europe trying to find clues and stop the disappearances of magic researchers.

This was an enjoyable read with adventure and new acquaintances while showcasing the strong loyalty and sense of purpose shared by the group surrounding Evander and Viggo. I do wish there was more forward momentum in Evander and Viggo’s relationship and the overall story plotline, but it was still entertaining. Getting more peeks of Evander’s royal background was interesting and I look forward to how this plays out over the series. Overall, a good entry into the series and I am still super invested in these characters. 4.25

[Deb Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all this series must be read in order as we follow Evander and Viggo’s journey and have to say this blend of historical fantasy, danger and slow-burn romance works beautifully.

Evander and Viggo’s hunt takes them across Europe, and the scope of the story really opens up, with political intrigue, dangerous magic and high-stakes action woven together seamlessly. The mystery surrounding the Crimson Codex kept me fully engaged, and there’s a constant sense that one wrong move could cost lives.

I especially enjoyed the expanded cast travelling with them. The team dynamic adds both strength and warmth to the story, and Agent Shaw’s dry, often outrageous commentary provided some much-needed humour amidst the darker moments. While Evander and Viggo can’t be open about their relationship in every setting, their bond is unmistakable, it’s there in the small moments, the trust, and the way they instinctively gravitate towards each other. Simply exceptional series
i received a free arc copy and this is my honest review

[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

These stories just keep getting better and better. Evander, Viggo and their team of misfits are on an explosive adventure across Europe in search of the Crimson Codex and the mysterious “I”. From the glittering ballrooms of imperial palaces to the slums their search turns up more questions (and dead bodies) than answers. Mages are still going missing, making clues harder to find and with fears rising they race against time to find the codex before the dark mages who always seem to be one step ahead of them. This Victorian world of magic and mystery is all consuming. I feel like I can see the opulence and glamour, feel the fear and find myself positively vibrating with tension. I spent so much time holding my breath. There were several laugh out loud moments to break the tension (thank you Shaw) and hot and steamy scenes show that love with always win. This is not a standalone, but then the first two books in the series were so good, who wouldn’t want to read them.

[AshPenny37 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander - Duke Ravenwood, archmage and Special Investigator in the Metropolitan Police’s Arcane Magic Division - is tasked with a perilous mission that takes him and his entourage on a cat and mouse chase across Europe in search of the titular Crimson Codex. His gang of travelling companions is made up of his closest work colleagues, both official and unofficial, and Viggo - the Ironfist Brute, underground intelligencer as leader of the Nightshade and at this stage in the series Evander’s not so secret partner in their personal lives. They're joined by an unwelcome addition, an overseer who'll report mission progress back to the Ministry.

The threats just keep on coming all the way along this rollercoaster adventure and the group manage to keep ahead of the game thanks to some help from some (often) surprising allies as well as the gang’s individual and collective strengths. The greatest of which is, of course, the bonds formed between them. And naturally, the greatest of those bonds is between Evander and Viggo. I love the way their relationship has developed over the course of the series. They are unwaveringly supportive of each other and their devotion for each other leaps off the page.

I'll be honest, I was expecting this to be the series finale, but it turns out it is not. I can't say I'm upset by this…bring on another round of adventures with Duke Ravenwood and his Ironfist Brute. Brilliantly entertaining.

An e-copy was provided by GRR. This is is my honest opinion.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh wow .... I so love this series. Evander and Viggo grew so much since the beginning, and I love their relationship.

the same is true for the secondary characters. I especially love Ginny and Shaw, as they are strong women who are very capable.
unfortunately, there is often a lack of strong and great female characters in MM books, which I don't understand and which is fortunately not true for this series and thus author.

but as much as I love the characters, the relationship and the while cast, the biggest draw in this book was the story.
I loved the actions, the different places and the storyline.
this book had also some action in Vienna and I loved reading about that, especially as it was well researched.

there are a lot of open questions and I can't wait to read what comes next

[Demetra Roussakis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow. This is book 3 in the series and must be read in order as it focuses on the Evander and Viggo as the well as the story arc. Evander is still on the hunt for the mysterious “I” and looking to find the codex. They head off to France, and learn all about the disappearances of mages and thralls and no one knows where they are. They are off to different cities when they arrive at a monastery that they were told the monks were kicked out. As they travel through it, they find some of the missing researchers and thralls. There was also a great battle between Evander and a mage that was long thought dead. I cannot wait to read what’s next to find out more about the “extra” magic that is in Evander, about the half of the codex and what happens with the dark mage. I am really enjoying this series and would recommend.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander and Viggo return with an intercontinental mission that raises the stakes in every possible way. The blend of mystery, danger, and fast‑paced action kept me completely absorbed from start to finish. The threats they face feel real, the tension is constant, and the story never stops moving.
Their team adds so much depth and entertainment to the journey, but Agent Shaw is the true scene‑stealer. Her unfiltered humor had me laughing out loud more than once, offering the perfect contrast to the darker moments of the plot. Even though Evander and Viggo can’t always be open about their relationship—especially while working overseas—their connection is undeniable. Their chemistry comes through in every interaction, whether they’re side by side or separated by an entire city, and it gives the story a strong emotional core. The worldbuilding is rich and layered, taking readers through elite circles and hidden underworlds as the group races to uncover the secrets of the codex before their enemies do. The diverse backgrounds of the team members create a fantastic sense of camaraderie and make them even more effective as they tackle challenges from every angle.

[Alias11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was the final book in a trilogy, but was happy to find out it is not, and that my time with Evander, Viggo, and company will continue. This is the third book in the series, and they really must be read in order for full enjoyment and understanding. This book is a rollercoaster ride of action, adventure, danger, and some steamy times, as Evander, Viggo, and there companions travel across Europe seeking the Crimson Codex. Conspiracy, intrigue, and dark magic complicate and hinder their efforts along the way. I am really loving this series, the world-building, intriguing magic system, and incredible characters (both the MCs and side characters.) Even the villains are well drawn and complex. The story doesn't end here, and I am excited to see what happens next.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Susanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liked this third instalment. I had read the first two books in November, but it was quite easy getting back into it and get right back into it I did!! I cannot wait for the next book in this series (which hopefully and probably won't be the last).
There was again a lot going on in this book, but mainly because our little gang had to go to quite a few European cities in order to find the Crimson Codx. And we added another member to the family!! (We didn't like him at first, but I, for one, think he's awesome, and I wanna learn more about him).
Evander and Viggo are still very much established. Evander's powers are not as established as we believe (because... reasons)... Might there be more? We don't know yet.
Overall, I really loved this one, and I need to read the next one.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite so far of a fabulous PNR set in AU Victorian world. Our wonderful Viggo and Evander must leave their beloved London to track down the mysterious Crimson Codex. Joining them are friends who are truly a found family. We also meet some new friends and foes. A.M. gives us a rousing tour of 19th century Europe wrapped in dark magic and smexy times! I wish I could tell you this could be read as a standalone but just read the first two so you will fall in love with these so sexy men, their friends, and this lush world. I need the next saga now. And my dear Salinger, could we get a quick novella f Shaw and her quest. She absolutely is one of my stars of this entry!

[Emilyrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Evander and Viggo; they have great chemistry and it's so good to see them continue to get stronger as a couple. As with the rest of the series, this story had plenty of action and it hooked me in from start to finish. I love the world building and all of the secondary characters feel so well-developed, not just the MCs. There are new developments in the wider plot and I can't wait to see what happens next. It's another HFN for the pair as their adventure clearly isn't over - I'm already excited for book 4 and I hope we don't have too long to wait! For me, it has to be 5 stars!

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evander and Viggo go to Europe

Evander and Viggo are going on a trip to Europe and if you know these two guys (and you really should before you read this book) then you know that they are not going on a vacation together, much as they would like to. Bad people are again and maybe still causing problems and threatening all we hold dear. Of course they are because that is a lot of what these books are about, but don’t get any idea that they are repetitive. Ava Marie Salinger has again written more adventures for the two lovers and balanced out the many different elements into another eminently readable story.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this series in order or you will be lost. Evander and Viggo head to the continent on the trail of the Crimson Codex. Ava Marie Salinger continues to build this intricate world of magic and Victorian era steam (but modern spice), with excellent political intrigue, a sweet love story, and fast paced action. Both Evander and Viggo reveal more of themselves and while they can't be too open about their relationship, it's clear that this side of the story is building apace. The side characters continue to be excellently written, with their subplots making the story feel full and well rounded. I thought this was the last book, but it is definitely not.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these two so much! Viggo and Evander may not look like a match on paper but they are sheer perfection together. As they search for the Crimson Codex abroad, the conspiracy deepens. The politics being played by the Council of Mages and the government is determined to force Evander into a corner. The pacing is just right and these characters are so well written. Fairbridge even grew on me as the story went on. I kinda hope we see more of him later. I can’t wait until the next book in this series.

[SandyB · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stakes are getting higher as Evander, Viggo, and their team travel across Europe to find missing scholars and keep the Crimson Codex after the hands of a powerful dark mage. As with the first two in the series, Evander’s team is full of interesting and fun characters (Ginny and Shaw are awesome) and the peeks into Victorian Europe provide even more flavor to what is a very entertaining plot filled with action and a touch of romance. Each book’s adventure does have a satisfying end, but they build on each other so reading in order is necessary for full enjoyment.

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third book continues on with a race across Europe, Evander, Viggo and their companions are joined by an agent from the war office who is there to watch every thing Evander does. This book gets your pulse racing with lots of tension and action but it’s not over yet as some questions are answered but others crop up. This book is as good as the others and it was a joy to read I couldn’t put it down even when I had to I was begrudging about it. I am really looking forward to the next in the series, hopefully it doesn’t take long to be out.

[M E · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! So good!!! I can’t wait to read what’s next. I love how all the side characters really feel like an equal part of the story. Everything is so well developed.

Lyra Shaw is an absolute delight in this book bringing the perfect amount of levity to a serious endeavor. And I love the addition of Fairbridge. I hope he continues on the journey.

Evander and Viggo continue to be a delight as they build a solid foundation for their relationship.

Thank you Gay Romance Reviews and Ava Marie Salinger for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

4.5 ⭐️

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crimson Codex is the third book in The Mage and His Brute series. In my opinion this series is best read in order. We are back with Evander, Viggo, and their team for more adventures. I love this series so much. Each book is better than the last. The world building and characters get better as we go along. The plot keeps getting more developed as we learn more. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy

[Rani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in the series and you really need to read these books in order to get the most out of them. It was great to visit this world once more catch up with Evander and Viggo again and see what is happening with them now.More adventure and action and watching their relationship keep growing kept me reading once I started the book.

[Belinda Zamora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great addition to the series

Evander and Viggo are racing across Europe in a desperate attempt to stem the tide of evil.
They're dealing with a conspiracy that reaches to the highest level of governments and behind the scenes political machinations.
There's danger, drama, mystery, magic and fast-paced action.

[Beverly Button · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keeps getting better!

Ava Marie Salinger does it again in Book 3 of The Mage and His Brute, introducing new characters that become friends and helpers, setting tense scenes in various cities of Europe, while Evander gives everything to save his friends and the world.
I can't wait for Book 4!

[David Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book but the authors choices on what the characters are doing seem frustrating as everyone seems to get away or other things. Maybe I read it wrong but it seems like the storyline needed so reconfiguring.