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Guarded in Darkness
Not yet published
Expected 17 Jul 26He was sent to protect her until he could eliminate her. Then she became the one person he couldn’t destroy.
Aria Connors thought losing her fiancé was the worst thing she would ever survive. Then come the gifts. The warnings. The feeling that someone is watching her while she sleeps. Until a masked stranger starts haunting the edges of her life—first as a presence in the shadows, then as a faceless voice, then as the man who seems to understand the most broken parts of her. The deeper Aria falls, the harder it becomes to tell danger from desire.
Ren is the Triads’ most feared weapon—a silent assassin known as the god of death. He was given one job: keep Aria alive until a key is recovered…then kill her. But Ren has spent his life obeying orders without hesitation. Aria was supposed to be a job. A problem. A means to an end. Instead, she gets under his skin, into his blood, and past every wall he’s ever built.
Now enemies are closing in, the secrets buried in Aria’s past are beginning to unravel, and the empire Ren serves will destroy them both before it lets them walk away. As betrayal, obsession, and desire collide, Ren will have to choose between the world that made him a monster…or the woman who makes him want to be a man.
Because in a world ruled by death, falling in love may be the most dangerous betrayal of all.
For fans of Peaky Blinders grit, Phantom of the Opera obsession, and Ocean’s Eleven schemes—with angst, spice, and sharp twists.
Tropes in Guarded in Darkness:
Bodyguard/Target • Masked Mute Assassin • Stalker/Protector • Lover in the Dark • Obsessed Hero • Secret Society • Mafia/Organized Crime • Dorma/Somno Play • Morally Gray Men • Found Family • Touch Her and Regret It • Secret Identities • Twists and Turns • Heist Crew Energy
WELCOME TO THE ANTIHERO SYNDICATE
Six men. One brotherhood. One vow: no mercy.
Aria Connors thought losing her fiancé was the worst thing she would ever survive. Then come the gifts. The warnings. The feeling that someone is watching her while she sleeps. Until a masked stranger starts haunting the edges of her life—first as a presence in the shadows, then as a faceless voice, then as the man who seems to understand the most broken parts of her. The deeper Aria falls, the harder it becomes to tell danger from desire.
Ren is the Triads’ most feared weapon—a silent assassin known as the god of death. He was given one job: keep Aria alive until a key is recovered…then kill her. But Ren has spent his life obeying orders without hesitation. Aria was supposed to be a job. A problem. A means to an end. Instead, she gets under his skin, into his blood, and past every wall he’s ever built.
Now enemies are closing in, the secrets buried in Aria’s past are beginning to unravel, and the empire Ren serves will destroy them both before it lets them walk away. As betrayal, obsession, and desire collide, Ren will have to choose between the world that made him a monster…or the woman who makes him want to be a man.
Because in a world ruled by death, falling in love may be the most dangerous betrayal of all.
For fans of Peaky Blinders grit, Phantom of the Opera obsession, and Ocean’s Eleven schemes—with angst, spice, and sharp twists.
Tropes in Guarded in Darkness:
Bodyguard/Target • Masked Mute Assassin • Stalker/Protector • Lover in the Dark • Obsessed Hero • Secret Society • Mafia/Organized Crime • Dorma/Somno Play • Morally Gray Men • Found Family • Touch Her and Regret It • Secret Identities • Twists and Turns • Heist Crew Energy
WELCOME TO THE ANTIHERO SYNDICATE
Six men. One brotherhood. One vow: no mercy.
- GenresDark RomanceRomance
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 17, 2026
About the author
Victoria Lum
13 books393 followersVictoria 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always knew I was going to love Elias's story (Sworn In Deceit) from the all snippets from his cameos in The Orchid series but I was not anticipating becoming obsessed with Ren instead!! Ren came in like a force to be reconned with and stays with you whether you want him to or not. Spoiler: I want him to!! 😏
Ren: the mute assassin, Si Shen; God of Death, heartless. Ren has a duty to the Kong's, complete his marks and they'll help him with his one wish. He is great at his job, he's heartless, doesn't speak to anyone and wants to believe that whoever the Kong's deem as a mark are bad people. But after a near death experience and a new heart, things aren't as black and white as they once were. His replacement heart seems to be beating to a different drum especially around a particular nurse with a no fear gene. Things begin to get complicated when the Kong's assign Si Shen with a new mark, one that could end one life but save another. Can Ren save them both or is he forever doomed to too be the God of Death and nothing more?
Aria: ER nurse, lover of horror and thrill seeker. After the loss of her fiancé, the man she was to marry was taken from her in the very hospital where they worked to save lives. With the grief slowly stripping away at the woman she was before, she feels lost. Looking for ways to cope, sometimes dangerous ways. Within these dangers, she somehow never feels alone with a shadow following her everywhere. Is this shadow there to keep her safe or to pose an even bigger threat to her life? Soon strange things seem to happen around her: "gifts" left in her ER, strangers asking her things she knows nothing about but also a man in a mask. What do these "gifts" mean, what do these strangers want with her and why does she feel drawn to this man in a mask? Will she find the answers before it's too late or will her love for danger catch up with her?
Ren and Aria's story is about finding yourself, finding a reason to continue and finding the Bonnie to your Clyde (but with an HEA 😉). Sometimes you just got to let your gloom shine and just be yourself. We are perfect just the way were are!
Ren: the mute assassin, Si Shen; God of Death, heartless. Ren has a duty to the Kong's, complete his marks and they'll help him with his one wish. He is great at his job, he's heartless, doesn't speak to anyone and wants to believe that whoever the Kong's deem as a mark are bad people. But after a near death experience and a new heart, things aren't as black and white as they once were. His replacement heart seems to be beating to a different drum especially around a particular nurse with a no fear gene. Things begin to get complicated when the Kong's assign Si Shen with a new mark, one that could end one life but save another. Can Ren save them both or is he forever doomed to too be the God of Death and nothing more?
Aria: ER nurse, lover of horror and thrill seeker. After the loss of her fiancé, the man she was to marry was taken from her in the very hospital where they worked to save lives. With the grief slowly stripping away at the woman she was before, she feels lost. Looking for ways to cope, sometimes dangerous ways. Within these dangers, she somehow never feels alone with a shadow following her everywhere. Is this shadow there to keep her safe or to pose an even bigger threat to her life? Soon strange things seem to happen around her: "gifts" left in her ER, strangers asking her things she knows nothing about but also a man in a mask. What do these "gifts" mean, what do these strangers want with her and why does she feel drawn to this man in a mask? Will she find the answers before it's too late or will her love for danger catch up with her?
Ren and Aria's story is about finding yourself, finding a reason to continue and finding the Bonnie to your Clyde (but with an HEA 😉). Sometimes you just got to let your gloom shine and just be yourself. We are perfect just the way were are!
July 1, 2026
Victoria Lum never disappoints? And I swear the Antihero Syndicate series is just getting better! There’s nothing a love more than a “heartless” assassin going soft and finally finding love only for their lover to be their next target. Damn becuase that’s forbidden taken to the next level, and Victoria Lum takes freaking everything to the next level. She’s an incredibly talented author managing to juggle multiple plot lines without overcrowding and rushing, making sure each plot twist has maximum impact. I admit the “final reveal” plot twist was something I expected from the start, but it was still impactful in the way it affected the story at its core. The plot was amazing but she never skimps on the romance and character development. I love a mortally grey vigilante mmc who claims he doesn’t have a heart but ironically does everything out of love (please read it and you’ll see what I mean). He’s a tragically broken man behind his cold assassin facade and has been pining forever for Aria. His “multiple personas” had me in a chokehold because he was hot in the dark of night and in the daylight (and I also love men who wear masks and only speak to their girl). As a Chinese girl myself, having a Chinese mmc really spoke to me and I loved the representation. I also selfishly wish someone would call me gongzhu (princess) like Ren does Aria. He would literally murder the entire world for her but is also a respectful as hell dark romance mmc, who gives her space when she asks and lets her call all the shots (which is better than 90% of dark romance mmcs). Aria goes through a lot during this book as well, and I loved most how she broke free of self inflicted chains and balanced her “saving people” needs with her dark ones. This book was a masterpiece, and it may look long but I promise it flew by so quickly I can’t wait to read the bonus epilogue. There’s also a hint for the next story that I’m super excited about! I give this a 5/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 ⭐ ARC Review 'Guarded In Darkness'
𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚.
💛 Bodyguard/Target
🖤 Masked Mute Assassin
💛 Stalker/Protector
🖤 Lover in the Dark
💛 Obsessed Hero
🖤 Secret Society
💛 Mafia/Organized Crime
🖤 Dorma/Somno Play
💛 Morally Gray Men
🖤 Found Family
💛 Touch Her & 💀
🖤 Secret Identities
💛 Twists and Turns
🖤 Heist Crew Energy
It's so great to be back in the syndicate with these characters. Another fantastic read that had my heart pounding and melting at the same time. The action and suspense, following plot twists left and right, totally captivated me to devour this story. I absolutely loved every page of this read! Ever since the first book in the Anti Hero Syndicate I was craving more. This story delivered and didn't disappoint!
Ren, our MMC, assassin to the Triads. The quiet, dark and dangerous. Death himself, trained to eliminate on order is tasked to terminate our FMC Aria. A nurse who's quietly grieving the death of her former partner. Apparently has the key that the Triads acquire to see her as a threat.
The heart that now beats in Ren's chest is about to unravel us all in this fast paced, action packed page turner of secrets, blood shed and a plot twist I didn't see coming.
Loved the banter within the characters in the syndicate. Definitely a lot of mischievous, bickering humor but a lot of loyalty too.
Can't wait to see more from these characters in this series. Tristan and Hellcat is going to be one hell of a rollercoaster and a wild ride!
✨ Don't forget to check out the bonus scenes!!
𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚.
💛 Bodyguard/Target
🖤 Masked Mute Assassin
💛 Stalker/Protector
🖤 Lover in the Dark
💛 Obsessed Hero
🖤 Secret Society
💛 Mafia/Organized Crime
🖤 Dorma/Somno Play
💛 Morally Gray Men
🖤 Found Family
💛 Touch Her & 💀
🖤 Secret Identities
💛 Twists and Turns
🖤 Heist Crew Energy
It's so great to be back in the syndicate with these characters. Another fantastic read that had my heart pounding and melting at the same time. The action and suspense, following plot twists left and right, totally captivated me to devour this story. I absolutely loved every page of this read! Ever since the first book in the Anti Hero Syndicate I was craving more. This story delivered and didn't disappoint!
Ren, our MMC, assassin to the Triads. The quiet, dark and dangerous. Death himself, trained to eliminate on order is tasked to terminate our FMC Aria. A nurse who's quietly grieving the death of her former partner. Apparently has the key that the Triads acquire to see her as a threat.
The heart that now beats in Ren's chest is about to unravel us all in this fast paced, action packed page turner of secrets, blood shed and a plot twist I didn't see coming.
Loved the banter within the characters in the syndicate. Definitely a lot of mischievous, bickering humor but a lot of loyalty too.
Can't wait to see more from these characters in this series. Tristan and Hellcat is going to be one hell of a rollercoaster and a wild ride!
✨ Don't forget to check out the bonus scenes!!
July 1, 2026
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Victoria for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
What to expect when reading ;
-Assassin Hero
-Bodyguard Romance
-Masked Men
-Secret Society/ Mafia
-Stalker/ Protector
-Suspense
This is book two of the Antihero Syndicate Series! You get to follow Aria and Ren! Aria is navigating her new life after losing her fiancée. Ren is the “God of Death” and Aria is the one thing he didn’t see coming.
She has done it AGAIN! This series just keeps getting better and better!! Ren and Aria's story just got added to my top reads list for the year. The connection between these two. This man SEES her and that in itself made me give this all the stars I can give. One thing Victoria is so good at is keeping you on your toes because there will alway be a twist you just aren't sure what it will be until it happens. I'm not sure if I devoured this book or if it devoured me lol I could not put it down. Ren in book one was such a mystery and getting such a deeper look into him, I think I'm in love with him lol I don't want to give too much away but there were so many moments between Ren and Aria that made me melt, they were HOT and I will be thinking of this book for a long while.
P.S: I need book three because it being that couple, I already know the intensity is going to be off the charts. This series has officially become one of my all time favorites and it isn't even fully out yet.
Fav Quote:
•”Good men are boring for a gongzhu like you.”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases 🤍
#bookstagram #romance #review
First I would like to say a big thank you to Victoria for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
What to expect when reading ;
-Assassin Hero
-Bodyguard Romance
-Masked Men
-Secret Society/ Mafia
-Stalker/ Protector
-Suspense
This is book two of the Antihero Syndicate Series! You get to follow Aria and Ren! Aria is navigating her new life after losing her fiancée. Ren is the “God of Death” and Aria is the one thing he didn’t see coming.
She has done it AGAIN! This series just keeps getting better and better!! Ren and Aria's story just got added to my top reads list for the year. The connection between these two. This man SEES her and that in itself made me give this all the stars I can give. One thing Victoria is so good at is keeping you on your toes because there will alway be a twist you just aren't sure what it will be until it happens. I'm not sure if I devoured this book or if it devoured me lol I could not put it down. Ren in book one was such a mystery and getting such a deeper look into him, I think I'm in love with him lol I don't want to give too much away but there were so many moments between Ren and Aria that made me melt, they were HOT and I will be thinking of this book for a long while.
P.S: I need book three because it being that couple, I already know the intensity is going to be off the charts. This series has officially become one of my all time favorites and it isn't even fully out yet.
Fav Quote:
•”Good men are boring for a gongzhu like you.”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases 🤍
#bookstagram #romance #review
Review of advance copy received from Author
The suspense kept me hooked the entire time. I was constantly trying to piece everything together, but the twists still managed to surprise me. The balance between romance, mystery, and emotional depth was done so well that I never wanted to put the book down.
What really made this story unforgettable was Ren's unwavering devotion. He knew revealing the truth could cost him everything, yet he still chose to love Aria wholeheartedly. His willingness to accept whatever she was willing to give him—even if it wasn't forever—made him one of the most selfless and swoon-worthy book boyfriends I've read in a long time.
Ren was such a fascinating hero, and every new layer of his life made him even more compelling. Watching all of his carefully guarded identities weave together had me equal parts anxious and obsessed because I knew the truth was eventually going to explode. Even with all the deception, his heart was always in the right place—everything he did came from wanting to protect the people he loved most.
My heart broke for Aria. She was carrying so much grief after losing her fiancé, and seeing her slowly figure out how to live again felt incredibly emotional and authentic. Her journey wasn't just about healing—it was about rediscovering herself, embracing her desires, and allowing herself to feel something beyond the pain. The chemistry between her and Ren was electric, and I loved how she connected with every side of him without realizing they all belonged to the same man. There was something unexpectedly tender about that dynamic that made their relationship even more meaningful.
What really made this story unforgettable was Ren's unwavering devotion. He knew revealing the truth could cost him everything, yet he still chose to love Aria wholeheartedly. His willingness to accept whatever she was willing to give him—even if it wasn't forever—made him one of the most selfless and swoon-worthy book boyfriends I've read in a long time.
Ren was such a fascinating hero, and every new layer of his life made him even more compelling. Watching all of his carefully guarded identities weave together had me equal parts anxious and obsessed because I knew the truth was eventually going to explode. Even with all the deception, his heart was always in the right place—everything he did came from wanting to protect the people he loved most.
My heart broke for Aria. She was carrying so much grief after losing her fiancé, and seeing her slowly figure out how to live again felt incredibly emotional and authentic. Her journey wasn't just about healing—it was about rediscovering herself, embracing her desires, and allowing herself to feel something beyond the pain. The chemistry between her and Ren was electric, and I loved how she connected with every side of him without realizing they all belonged to the same man. There was something unexpectedly tender about that dynamic that made their relationship even more meaningful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Folks, she’s done it again. Victora Lum is back with another banger.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, there were so many twists and turns and secrets, I was sat the whole time.
Ren is such an interesting character and he has so many different secret identities. It was like a secret pen pal trope times at least 3. I knew it was going to be a shit show when it all came out. He was just doing everything he could to protect the people that he loves.
Aria was going through it. My girl is still dealing with the grief of her fiancé dying and not fully knowing how to move on. She was ready to get down and dirty with it to start feeling again. And my girl was kinky, she was into some weird stuff with Ren and all his secret identities. He just knew exactly what she needed and how to give it to her. It was actually really sweet to read how she felt connected to all the different aspects of him without knowing that they were all the same person.
The mystery in this book was really intriguing and maybe I should have guessed the ending but it was a surprise to me. I just loved how through everything Ren stood by Aria’s side. He knew that she might stop wanting him once she found out his lies but he was going to take any time that he had with her. He would take crumbs for the rest of his life.
The bonus chapters were really cute but I’m gonna need a proposal at some point. I just know that Ren would do it so good and probably with her favorite flowers.
I received an arc from the author.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, there were so many twists and turns and secrets, I was sat the whole time.
Ren is such an interesting character and he has so many different secret identities. It was like a secret pen pal trope times at least 3. I knew it was going to be a shit show when it all came out. He was just doing everything he could to protect the people that he loves.
Aria was going through it. My girl is still dealing with the grief of her fiancé dying and not fully knowing how to move on. She was ready to get down and dirty with it to start feeling again. And my girl was kinky, she was into some weird stuff with Ren and all his secret identities. He just knew exactly what she needed and how to give it to her. It was actually really sweet to read how she felt connected to all the different aspects of him without knowing that they were all the same person.
The mystery in this book was really intriguing and maybe I should have guessed the ending but it was a surprise to me. I just loved how through everything Ren stood by Aria’s side. He knew that she might stop wanting him once she found out his lies but he was going to take any time that he had with her. He would take crumbs for the rest of his life.
The bonus chapters were really cute but I’m gonna need a proposal at some point. I just know that Ren would do it so good and probably with her favorite flowers.
I received an arc from the author.
Read
July 5, 2026⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Victoria Lum did it again!!!
First of all, thank you to Victoria Lum for the ARC. I'm so grateful I had the chance to read Ren and Aria's story early!
I swear, I had been waiting for Ren's story ever since he stole my attention in the first book, and it was worth every second of the wait.
Ren... AHH. This man. The mysterious, masked assassin who barely speaks? I was already obsessed with him, but getting inside his head made me love him even more. The fact that he only talks to Aria? I melted. He's dangerous, deadly, completely unhinged when it comes to protecting her, and somehow one of the most swoon-worthy heroes I've ever read.
And Aria... my heart absolutely broke for her. She has been through so much pain and heartbreaking loss that all I wanted was to see her find happiness. She deserved someone who would choose her, protect her, and love her unconditionally. Watching Ren become that person was everything. They brought out the best in each other, and I loved every moment of their journey.
The chemistry, the tension, the angst, the twists... Victoria Lum had me hooked from the first page and never let go. Every time I thought I had something figured out, another surprise came along.
This series just keeps getting better, and Guarded in Darkness is easily one of my favorites. Ren and Aria completely own a piece of my heart now.
If you love morally gray heroes, protective assassins, obsessive romance, emotional angst, and plenty of twists, you need this book on your TBR.
Victoria Lum did it again!!!
First of all, thank you to Victoria Lum for the ARC. I'm so grateful I had the chance to read Ren and Aria's story early!
I swear, I had been waiting for Ren's story ever since he stole my attention in the first book, and it was worth every second of the wait.
Ren... AHH. This man. The mysterious, masked assassin who barely speaks? I was already obsessed with him, but getting inside his head made me love him even more. The fact that he only talks to Aria? I melted. He's dangerous, deadly, completely unhinged when it comes to protecting her, and somehow one of the most swoon-worthy heroes I've ever read.
And Aria... my heart absolutely broke for her. She has been through so much pain and heartbreaking loss that all I wanted was to see her find happiness. She deserved someone who would choose her, protect her, and love her unconditionally. Watching Ren become that person was everything. They brought out the best in each other, and I loved every moment of their journey.
The chemistry, the tension, the angst, the twists... Victoria Lum had me hooked from the first page and never let go. Every time I thought I had something figured out, another surprise came along.
This series just keeps getting better, and Guarded in Darkness is easily one of my favorites. Ren and Aria completely own a piece of my heart now.
If you love morally gray heroes, protective assassins, obsessive romance, emotional angst, and plenty of twists, you need this book on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to see more about the mystersilent Ren, after the cliffhanger with him in book one! It segues so perfectly from book one to this one, so I highly reccomend reading that one as well!
The suspense and romance mixed with organized crime and th supporting characters was excellently done here! I found Aria a bit too quick to spiciness but putting that aside, I really liked her strength mixed with just the right amount of softness. Her chemistry with Ren is full of sparks. It grows with a overall slow-ish burn that feels right and natural.
The hidden identities may require a little leap of faith as to them staying hidden...but it was a neat addition to add some fun to the story. There's inner workings of the crime syndicate.in the background that kept me engaged as I like, as well as having our core cast of characters and side characters from other books making appearances which I always love when Victoria does that!
I really loved this installment and especially the leads' dynamics, getting inside Ren's head in particular...his thought process, his dilemmas, his duties, ideas of revenge, secrets, grief etc. He's a wonderful mix of tenderness, angst and precision k1ller when the need arises. Truly a man who will burn the world to protect those he loves and we love that kind of man! Ready for book 3!
The suspense and romance mixed with organized crime and th supporting characters was excellently done here! I found Aria a bit too quick to spiciness but putting that aside, I really liked her strength mixed with just the right amount of softness. Her chemistry with Ren is full of sparks. It grows with a overall slow-ish burn that feels right and natural.
The hidden identities may require a little leap of faith as to them staying hidden...but it was a neat addition to add some fun to the story. There's inner workings of the crime syndicate.in the background that kept me engaged as I like, as well as having our core cast of characters and side characters from other books making appearances which I always love when Victoria does that!
I really loved this installment and especially the leads' dynamics, getting inside Ren's head in particular...his thought process, his dilemmas, his duties, ideas of revenge, secrets, grief etc. He's a wonderful mix of tenderness, angst and precision k1ller when the need arises. Truly a man who will burn the world to protect those he loves and we love that kind of man! Ready for book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the first book of this series so much. This one was no different. It had so many good twists, excellent spice, wonderful character development, and me feeling my feels more than once.😅🥺 Victoria is a phenomenal author her writing is just so good! This book follows a nurse named Aria who is Lana's best friend from book one. Aria's fiance Blake who was a surgeon died in the shootout from book one. Aria has been grieving for over a year now. Ren is the silent assassin who is a double agent for the Syndicate. Ren has been watching Aria from afar for awhile now and he has become obsessed with Aria but when he is given a target he must obey in order to protect his sister. As secrets come out and truths are revealed the two quickly find out huge things in their lives may have been lies.😱 Seeing how soft and reverent Ren can be and treats Aria is such a beautiful contrast to the horrific things he does.🥺 But man oh man in the bedroom the man is dominant and possessive and has an absolutely filthy mouth! 😅🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥 The emotions this book made me feel! I cried more than once! 😅😩😭😭 but my favorite part of Victoria's books are the twists that I think I know but am then thrown a huge curveball! 😅🤯🤯🤯
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC recieved from author ✨
I want to start by saying Thank you to Victoria for allowing me to be part of the ARC team. I truly appreciate it!!
He was sent to eliminate her but she became the one he couldn't destroy.
🖤 Bodyguard/Target
🎭Masked Mute Assassin
💀Stalker/protector
🌑 Lover in the dark
🤐 Secret Society
☠️ Touch her and die
🩶 Morally grey men
And so many more twists & turns...ready to be obsessed 🖤🔪☠️
Ahhh 🥹 Ren and Aria. What a ride!!! I absolutely love how you saw Aria grow stronger with everything that was thrown at her. Ren was troubled with guilt and fought to make his way through.
Aria:
"That rough voice. Like he's a man of few words, but when he speaks, the world stops to listen.
It's honey in my veins."
Ren:
" "I can't," I finally answer her. "But trust me, if I could, there be no force strong enough on earth to keep me away from you." "
Chapter 35...🥹😭😍 All of the feels!!!!
And chapter 40!! That twist?!! Wasn't expecting that to play out that way at the end. Screw you *you know who*!! No spoilers here 😂
Absolutely loved their story and can't wait for Tristan and Sofia's!!!
I want to start by saying Thank you to Victoria for allowing me to be part of the ARC team. I truly appreciate it!!
He was sent to eliminate her but she became the one he couldn't destroy.
🖤 Bodyguard/Target
🎭Masked Mute Assassin
💀Stalker/protector
🌑 Lover in the dark
🤐 Secret Society
☠️ Touch her and die
🩶 Morally grey men
And so many more twists & turns...ready to be obsessed 🖤🔪☠️
Ahhh 🥹 Ren and Aria. What a ride!!! I absolutely love how you saw Aria grow stronger with everything that was thrown at her. Ren was troubled with guilt and fought to make his way through.
Aria:
"That rough voice. Like he's a man of few words, but when he speaks, the world stops to listen.
It's honey in my veins."
Ren:
" "I can't," I finally answer her. "But trust me, if I could, there be no force strong enough on earth to keep me away from you." "
Chapter 35...🥹😭😍 All of the feels!!!!
And chapter 40!! That twist?!! Wasn't expecting that to play out that way at the end. Screw you *you know who*!! No spoilers here 😂
Absolutely loved their story and can't wait for Tristan and Sofia's!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Guarded in Darkness will keep you on the edge of your seat. It has so many twists and turns you won’t see coming. This world that Victoria has created has become one of my favorites. So much intrigued, lies, hurt, pain and so much more.
Aria and Ren story was a masterpiece. Aria is still grieving from her loss, living in darkness and not sunshine. Taking risks with a stranger who lives behind a screen. Ren is the man behind the mask, is a selective mute. And will do anything to protect his sister. When Ren and Aria interact they share a connection. She lets him in little by little. Not knowing all the secrets he hides, all while protecting her. When her life becomes in danger he will do everything in his power to keep her safe. Their relationship becomes a want and need the pull is strong. The chemistry is undeniable it was beautiful to see. All the highs and low they have to overcome to get to place to be happy will be worth it. It was great to come back to this world. Seeing new friends and old friends always brings a smile to my face. I can’t wait to come back and see what happens next.
Arc was provided for honest review.
Aria and Ren story was a masterpiece. Aria is still grieving from her loss, living in darkness and not sunshine. Taking risks with a stranger who lives behind a screen. Ren is the man behind the mask, is a selective mute. And will do anything to protect his sister. When Ren and Aria interact they share a connection. She lets him in little by little. Not knowing all the secrets he hides, all while protecting her. When her life becomes in danger he will do everything in his power to keep her safe. Their relationship becomes a want and need the pull is strong. The chemistry is undeniable it was beautiful to see. All the highs and low they have to overcome to get to place to be happy will be worth it. It was great to come back to this world. Seeing new friends and old friends always brings a smile to my face. I can’t wait to come back and see what happens next.
Arc was provided for honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Triads, mafias, a secret society, a silent masked assassin and a nurse… it feels like the start of a joke. But instead, it was the start of an intense and interesting story from start to finish.
You know how there are those MMCs that are the ultimate red flag. But as you read, they have some hidden layer of sweetness only for her that makes you think, “I mean, he’s maybe not THAT bad.” That’s Ren. While yes, he’s obsessed, it’s the way he notices things about Aria that others miss. The way he gives her space to be herself, and the power she gets from that… loved it.
With lots of strings to follow, sudden twists, and the things you’d expect from a dark romance, this was another enjoyable read in The Antihero Syndicate series.
I’d recommend reading the first book before jumping in here! Both books are worth the TBR add!
I was kindly provided an ARC, but my review is honest and completely my own.
For Fans Of:
🩵 Dark Romance
🩵 Secret Identity
🩵 Assassin / Target
🩵 Secret Society + Mafia
You know how there are those MMCs that are the ultimate red flag. But as you read, they have some hidden layer of sweetness only for her that makes you think, “I mean, he’s maybe not THAT bad.” That’s Ren. While yes, he’s obsessed, it’s the way he notices things about Aria that others miss. The way he gives her space to be herself, and the power she gets from that… loved it.
With lots of strings to follow, sudden twists, and the things you’d expect from a dark romance, this was another enjoyable read in The Antihero Syndicate series.
I’d recommend reading the first book before jumping in here! Both books are worth the TBR add!
I was kindly provided an ARC, but my review is honest and completely my own.
For Fans Of:
🩵 Dark Romance
🩵 Secret Identity
🩵 Assassin / Target
🩵 Secret Society + Mafia
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
5/5 stars!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💕💕💕💕💕
I honestly had such a good time reading. I already loved the first book in this series, but this one somehow managed to be even better for me.
In this book we got to explore Ren and Aria's Story.
The world kept expanding and I loved discovering more about the world and how everything connected. We got to know about Ren and his past, his motive for being in the Anti-hero Syndicate.
The suspense was great, but what really got me in this book was the emotional depth.
Ren is such a sweetheart and Aria completes him. ❤❤
Their chemistry felt so natural, and I loved how they became each other's safe place. They both went through so much, but seeing them support each other through all the pain made their relationship even more beautiful. I also really liked how the story explored Ren's guilt and didn't just brush it aside. And watching him slowly bring Aria's smile back... that was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
The author absolutely delivered with this one. Thank you Victoria!
Overall, this was such a fun and emotional read. It had romance, mystery, action, and so many sweet moments in between. Now I just need the next book because I'm definitely not ready to leave this world yet!
Tropes:
Bodyguard/Target
Masked Mute Assassin
Stalker/Protector
Lover in the Dark
Obsessed Hero
Secret Society
Mafia/Organized Crime
Morally Gray Men
Touch Her and Regret It
Secret Identities
Twists & Turns
Heist Crew Energy
5/5 stars!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💕💕💕💕💕
I honestly had such a good time reading. I already loved the first book in this series, but this one somehow managed to be even better for me.
In this book we got to explore Ren and Aria's Story.
The world kept expanding and I loved discovering more about the world and how everything connected. We got to know about Ren and his past, his motive for being in the Anti-hero Syndicate.
The suspense was great, but what really got me in this book was the emotional depth.
Ren is such a sweetheart and Aria completes him. ❤❤
Their chemistry felt so natural, and I loved how they became each other's safe place. They both went through so much, but seeing them support each other through all the pain made their relationship even more beautiful. I also really liked how the story explored Ren's guilt and didn't just brush it aside. And watching him slowly bring Aria's smile back... that was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
The author absolutely delivered with this one. Thank you Victoria!
Overall, this was such a fun and emotional read. It had romance, mystery, action, and so many sweet moments in between. Now I just need the next book because I'm definitely not ready to leave this world yet!
Tropes:
Bodyguard/Target
Masked Mute Assassin
Stalker/Protector
Lover in the Dark
Obsessed Hero
Secret Society
Mafia/Organized Crime
Morally Gray Men
Touch Her and Regret It
Secret Identities
Twists & Turns
Heist Crew Energy
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have yet to come across a Victoria Lum book that was anything less than amazing! And this one was no exception! I loved every second of this book, and I could not put it down! I loved getting to see Aria's journey in healing from her grief, and seeing her blossom on the other side of it! Her drive to find the needed solutions, while doing what she could to keep herself and her loved ones safe was really beautiful! And Ren's tortured soul was so wonderful to watch as he navigated his own journey in growth and acceptance! I loved so much that he so effortlessly was exactly what Aria needed in every facet of her journey! These two coming together was so beautiful, and the whole story kept me rapt the entire time! Overall this was an absolutely wonderful book, and an excellent next chapter in the Antihero Syndicate series!! I can't wait for more from Victoria Lum! 5 stars; 3.75 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Grief Rep
- Mafia MMC
- Foreign Language Nickname
- Stalker Romance
- Assassin x Nurse
- Meddling Friends
Tropes:
- Grief Rep
- Mafia MMC
- Foreign Language Nickname
- Stalker Romance
- Assassin x Nurse
- Meddling Friends
Review of advance copy received from Author
Victoria has somehow blew my mind AGAIN… This world is so intricate and detailed. There’s a reason for everything and I’m left reading with my mouth open throughout the book. Ren is the silent assassin that couldn’t help but fall for the fearless ER nurse. He loves her for exactly who she is and lucky for him, she loves him in the same way. This book had so much nostalgic factors for me with all the details integrated from Chinese culture. Growing up watching HK dramas made me love that she incorporated the siheyuan and the song by Teresa Tang. I love that these dangerous men always have a cute nickname for their true love. The gongzhu to his Little Prince. They’re perfect!
I’m beyond excited for the next couple! I can’t wait to learn more about their history and see how their story unfolds.
I’m beyond excited for the next couple! I can’t wait to learn more about their history and see how their story unfolds.
Review of advance copy
Aria & Ren were so amazing!
Aria was still grieving after the loss of her fiancé almost a year prior when she finds herself in the crosshairs of Ren…and the organization that put a hit out on her.
And Ren is fighting against all of his instincts that had been ‘programmed’ into him by the men that wanted to use him as a weapon. But he finds that he has hit a road block when it comes to Aria.
But now Aria has become way more involved with Ren, in ways she isn’t completely aware of either. And these two have to come to terms with their pasts & the fact that he will do anything to make sure she makes it out of this.
There were so many twists & turns in this book that I definitely not expecting but it had me on the edge of my seat.
I was so happy to have the chance to read this & am so excited to see what happens next with Sofia & Tristan.
Absolutely amazing!
Aria was still grieving after the loss of her fiancé almost a year prior when she finds herself in the crosshairs of Ren…and the organization that put a hit out on her.
And Ren is fighting against all of his instincts that had been ‘programmed’ into him by the men that wanted to use him as a weapon. But he finds that he has hit a road block when it comes to Aria.
But now Aria has become way more involved with Ren, in ways she isn’t completely aware of either. And these two have to come to terms with their pasts & the fact that he will do anything to make sure she makes it out of this.
There were so many twists & turns in this book that I definitely not expecting but it had me on the edge of my seat.
I was so happy to have the chance to read this & am so excited to see what happens next with Sofia & Tristan.
Absolutely amazing!
June 30, 2026
This book had me gagged the whole time! There was so much suspense, drama, secrets, pain, grief, angst, lust, strength, revenge, and resilience all wrapped into a nice pretty little bow that is this remarkable book. You got a little bit of everything in it and it was - AMAZING!
My sweet baby Ren ugh - no wonder Aria was addicted to this man in all his ways. He was such a multi dimensional person. He hid so much of himself to not show his true self for fear of not living up to his “si shen” name.
Aria- technically a widow, grieving her fiancée trying to navigate her life around newly single. Alone. And now wanted by every member of the association, and REN’s “si shen nxt job” but the lust there created and uncovered all the epic lust filled secrets everyone was holding back.
My sweet baby Ren ugh - no wonder Aria was addicted to this man in all his ways. He was such a multi dimensional person. He hid so much of himself to not show his true self for fear of not living up to his “si shen” name.
Aria- technically a widow, grieving her fiancée trying to navigate her life around newly single. Alone. And now wanted by every member of the association, and REN’s “si shen nxt job” but the lust there created and uncovered all the epic lust filled secrets everyone was holding back.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this for my honest review and where is my mute, masked assassin?
In book 2 of the Antihero Syndicate series our FMC is an ER Nurse who's fiance was shot and killed a year ago. Our MMC is a mute, masked assassin, who now has her late fiances heart beating in his chest. After the accident he has been keeping an eye on her - from a distance until he is given his next orders - get the key from her and then eliminate her.
She has been trying to cope with her new life by talking with a stranger on an app about some darker desires, who may or may not be sending her "gifts" that scratch that itch. She should be afraid, but this is bringing out the real her. But is this stranger really a stranger? And what happens when she learns all of the MMCs truths?
In book 2 of the Antihero Syndicate series our FMC is an ER Nurse who's fiance was shot and killed a year ago. Our MMC is a mute, masked assassin, who now has her late fiances heart beating in his chest. After the accident he has been keeping an eye on her - from a distance until he is given his next orders - get the key from her and then eliminate her.
She has been trying to cope with her new life by talking with a stranger on an app about some darker desires, who may or may not be sending her "gifts" that scratch that itch. She should be afraid, but this is bringing out the real her. But is this stranger really a stranger? And what happens when she learns all of the MMCs truths?
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC from the author agency for a honest review. This is book 2 in the Antihero syndicate. After reading book 1 I was eager to get Ren & Aria’s story. This story was an absolute rollercoaster. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I was proven wrong again. This book is the perfect dark romance. Touch her & die vibes, secret societies, suspense, action, and a man who will burn the world to protect the one he loves. If you haven’t read book 1, I do recommend it prior to reading this one. While they are both standalones, you will understand them better reading in order. This series gets better with every book. Ren & Aria will live rent free in my head. This is easily one of my favorites series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
🖤 Dark Romance
🛡️ Bodyguard/Assassin MMC
🔥 Secret Society/Mafia
💔 Emotional Healing
I got attached to these characters way faster than I expected, and before I knew it I was saying “one more chapter” until I finished the whole thing.
The MMC, ren, was definitely my favorite part. I love a protective hero, but what I loved even more was watching him slowly open up. Those little moments always get me, and they made me root for them so much. The chemistry between them felt so natural and never rushed.
I also loved that this book had a lot of heart. It wasn’t just about the romance. Seeing both of them work through everything they’d been carrying made their relationship feel so rewarding. I honestly wasn’t ready for it to end and I cant wait to read more from Victoria Lum.
🛡️ Bodyguard/Assassin MMC
🔥 Secret Society/Mafia
💔 Emotional Healing
I got attached to these characters way faster than I expected, and before I knew it I was saying “one more chapter” until I finished the whole thing.
The MMC, ren, was definitely my favorite part. I love a protective hero, but what I loved even more was watching him slowly open up. Those little moments always get me, and they made me root for them so much. The chemistry between them felt so natural and never rushed.
I also loved that this book had a lot of heart. It wasn’t just about the romance. Seeing both of them work through everything they’d been carrying made their relationship feel so rewarding. I honestly wasn’t ready for it to end and I cant wait to read more from Victoria Lum.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
What does Victoria put in her books cuz damn, i couldn't put it down.
Ren is the assassin for the Triads who's job is to get a "key" from Aria, the woman who is grieving her fiancée. But he can't kill her because he is falling for her. Talk about forbidden!
This book was amazing. It had action, mystery, romance and hot spicy scenes. A plot twist that will have your jaw on the floor. You kind of expect it but it still shocks you.
The Anti-hero Syndicate series keeps getting better and better and I feel that the next book will be just as good because she has been building up this enemies to lovers
Thank you to Victoria Lum for the opportunity to read the book.
What does Victoria put in her books cuz damn, i couldn't put it down.
Ren is the assassin for the Triads who's job is to get a "key" from Aria, the woman who is grieving her fiancée. But he can't kill her because he is falling for her. Talk about forbidden!
This book was amazing. It had action, mystery, romance and hot spicy scenes. A plot twist that will have your jaw on the floor. You kind of expect it but it still shocks you.
The Anti-hero Syndicate series keeps getting better and better and I feel that the next book will be just as good because she has been building up this enemies to lovers
Thank you to Victoria Lum for the opportunity to read the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beyond honored to be Victoria's beta reader a second time. So excited for everyone to fall for Mr. Ren, no last name.
VICTORIA ATE WITH REN AND ARIA'S STORY AND LEFT NO CRUMBS. If you love the silent but deadly type, Ren is the guardian angel/bodyguard that watches over Aria to keep her out of harm's way, a man who would take a bullet for the one he loves. Ren falls first, and he falls hard. She's the one who makes him want to speak again.
The Antihero Syndicate series has me in a permanent chokehold. I can't wait to read the next one!
VICTORIA ATE WITH REN AND ARIA'S STORY AND LEFT NO CRUMBS. If you love the silent but deadly type, Ren is the guardian angel/bodyguard that watches over Aria to keep her out of harm's way, a man who would take a bullet for the one he loves. Ren falls first, and he falls hard. She's the one who makes him want to speak again.
The Antihero Syndicate series has me in a permanent chokehold. I can't wait to read the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I had the wonderful opportunity to read this book through ARC. I want to thank Victoria Lum for allowing me the access to her book. It was a wonderful wild ride of emotions. There were parts I had to set the book down and take a breath and then other parts had me gasping and clutching my mouth is shock.
This book is about a girl who was just normal and did her everyday life with her friends and she knew one of her friends had a husband with a dark side. Little did she know that husbands dark side would bleed into her life...All I can say is READ this book for figure that out for yourself.
This book is about a girl who was just normal and did her everyday life with her friends and she knew one of her friends had a husband with a dark side. Little did she know that husbands dark side would bleed into her life...All I can say is READ this book for figure that out for yourself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am absolutely feral after finishing this book.
This might be my favorite Victoria Lum book yet. The tension is addictive, the chemistry is off the charts, and I was hooked from the very first page. Every chapter had me saying, "Just one more," until suddenly I was at the end wondering what to do with my life.
Dark, gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down, this is the kind of book that completely takes over your brain. If you love morally gray heroes, relentless tension, and twists that keep you guessing, don't sleep on this one.
This might be my favorite Victoria Lum book yet. The tension is addictive, the chemistry is off the charts, and I was hooked from the very first page. Every chapter had me saying, "Just one more," until suddenly I was at the end wondering what to do with my life.
Dark, gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down, this is the kind of book that completely takes over your brain. If you love morally gray heroes, relentless tension, and twists that keep you guessing, don't sleep on this one.
July 5, 2026
Aria is an ER nurse whose fiancé died.
Ren sends “gifts” to the ER. He received her fiancé’s heart. He wears a mask and never takes it off. He is only a softy with her.
This book is filled with secret identities, a masked mute assassin, stalker/protector, bodyguard/target, obsessed hero, secret society, morally gray men, and a lot of twists and turns. So much going on in this book and tons of extremely hot spice. I didn’t want this to end.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Ren sends “gifts” to the ER. He received her fiancé’s heart. He wears a mask and never takes it off. He is only a softy with her.
This book is filled with secret identities, a masked mute assassin, stalker/protector, bodyguard/target, obsessed hero, secret society, morally gray men, and a lot of twists and turns. So much going on in this book and tons of extremely hot spice. I didn’t want this to end.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
July 7, 2026
I really enjoyed this read! It felt like there was never a dull moment and I realized that there are definitely books that are about these characters I could have read first and probably gotten a bigger picture but even though this was my first book in the series I didn’t feel lost at all. I am a sucker for a mute MMC and that is what attracted me to this story in the first place. I do recommend it! I’ll for sure be reading more from this author!! The writing style was excellent!!!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This was a wild ride!!! From identities, all the way to the end of the story ( that threw me for a loop). This was so good. You can feel her pain, passion, guilt and all the other emotions but you also feel her being built up and it was amazing! I loved him and the lengths he went to keep her safe.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sign me up for Ren! He's the mysterious masked assassin who would burn the world down for those he loved. He wore many different hats - but I liked it when he was the Reaper! He sought justice for those who couldn't! This book had just the right amount of mystery, action and romance. I'm so loving this Antihero syndicate and I'm ready for the next book!
Read
May 28, 2026Beta Read - RTC
June 29, 2026
I ate this right up as I usually do with Victoria’s books! Ren and Aria were everything and more! I loved them! So much angst and suspense! Damn I love it and this series!
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