What do you think?
Rate this book
Craved: Marked for Ruin
I was raised to be useful.
Good daughter. Good liar. Good at cleaning blood out of places no one ever thinks to look.
My family didn’t teach me how to love.
They taught me how to hide bodies, how to stay quiet, how to make murder disappear.
So I ran.
Now I live small on purpose. Two jobs. Early mornings. Sleepless nights. I keep my hands busy and my head down. I smile when I’m supposed to. I pretend I’m harmless.
Most days, it works.
Until him.
I thought he didn’t notice me.
I didn’t realize he was cataloging me.
Studying my tells.
Tracking the cracks.
Waiting.
Because I’m unraveling. My past is catching up. And Zyran doesn’t ask what I’m running from.
He already knows.
He doesn’t save me.
He doesn’t offer escape.
He offers ownership.
He looks at my darkness like it belongs to him, and for the first time in my life, I wonder what it would be like to stop hiding. To stop cleaning up other people’s sins. To let someone else be the danger for once.
I should run.
I should disappear.
Instead, I stay.
And I let a man who whispers devotion like a promise decide what happens next.
Maybe broken girls don’t need redemption.
Maybe we need someone willing to kill for us and call it love.
And God help anyone who comes looking for me.
As this is a dark romance, the author highly recommends reading the 'content warning' page.
Good daughter. Good liar. Good at cleaning blood out of places no one ever thinks to look.
My family didn’t teach me how to love.
They taught me how to hide bodies, how to stay quiet, how to make murder disappear.
So I ran.
Now I live small on purpose. Two jobs. Early mornings. Sleepless nights. I keep my hands busy and my head down. I smile when I’m supposed to. I pretend I’m harmless.
Most days, it works.
Until him.
I thought he didn’t notice me.
I didn’t realize he was cataloging me.
Studying my tells.
Tracking the cracks.
Waiting.
Because I’m unraveling. My past is catching up. And Zyran doesn’t ask what I’m running from.
He already knows.
He doesn’t save me.
He doesn’t offer escape.
He offers ownership.
He looks at my darkness like it belongs to him, and for the first time in my life, I wonder what it would be like to stop hiding. To stop cleaning up other people’s sins. To let someone else be the danger for once.
I should run.
I should disappear.
Instead, I stay.
And I let a man who whispers devotion like a promise decide what happens next.
Maybe broken girls don’t need redemption.
Maybe we need someone willing to kill for us and call it love.
And God help anyone who comes looking for me.
As this is a dark romance, the author highly recommends reading the 'content warning' page.
626 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2026
About the author
Ryan Mundy
16 books134 followersAuthor📚
28 📍 South Carolina
Dark Romance | 18+🌶️
all books can be found on amazon (KU) and website ryanmundywrites.com
28 📍 South Carolina
Dark Romance | 18+🌶️
all books can be found on amazon (KU) and website ryanmundywrites.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 20, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Author.
After reading Tarnished (book 1) and loving Zyran in that book, I really enjoyed being inside Zyran’s head for this book. I highly recommend reading book 1 before this one just to get some kind of backstory to Zyran and his family. I’m excited to see if/how this world is expanded in the future. Thank you to the author for the arc copy.
After reading Tarnished (book 1) and loving Zyran in that book, I really enjoyed being inside Zyran’s head for this book. I highly recommend reading book 1 before this one just to get some kind of backstory to Zyran and his family. I’m excited to see if/how this world is expanded in the future. Thank you to the author for the arc copy.
August 25, 2026
“𝕸𝖆𝖞𝖇𝖊 𝖇𝖗𝖔𝖐𝖊𝖓 𝖌𝖎𝖗𝖑𝖘 𝖉𝖔𝖓’𝖙 𝖓𝖊𝖊𝖉 𝖗𝖊𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖕𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓. 𝕸𝖆𝖞𝖇𝖊 𝖜𝖊 𝖓𝖊𝖊𝖉 𝖘𝖔𝖒𝖊𝖔𝖓𝖊 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖙𝖔 𝖐𝖎𝖑𝖑 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖚𝖘 & 𝖈𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖎𝖙 𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊.”
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Ohhhhh.
WE’RE BACK IN MY NATURAL HABITAT. 😈🖤
After Tarnished, I already had my eye on this series. But now that I’ve finished Craved???
Yeah.
Ryan Mundy, I see what you’re doing.
This series is VERY quickly becoming a favorite.
Because apparently my preferred love language is no longer words of affirmation.
It’s:
I’ve studied every single thing about you, memorized your routine, know exactly what you’re hiding, and will eliminate anyone who threatens you.
THERAPY COULD NEVER FIX ME.
😭😂
First things first:
READ TARNISHED BEFORE THIS ONE.
Could you technically stumble your way through without it?
Maybe.
Should you?
NO.
There is too much context from the first book that matters here, especially when it comes to Zyran, his family, and everything that changed him.
And after meeting Zyran in Tarnished, I was already like:
👀
What’s HIS deal?
Because the funny, mischievous, charming man we originally met?
He’s still in there.
But he’s been through some SH*T.
And the Zyran we get here is darker.
More damaged.
More intense.
And apparently has spent the better part of a YEAR quietly obsessing over one woman.
WELCOME HOME, EVERYONE.
😈😂
That woman is Esperr.
And Esperr might have one of the most concerning childhood skill sets I’ve encountered recently.
Good daughter.
Good liar.
Really good at cleaning up blood.
👁️👄👁️
Ma’am.
She wasn’t raised to be loved or protected.
She was raised to be useful.
Keep quiet.
Hide evidence.
Clean up other people’s sins.
Make bodies disappear.
Just another wholesome family activity!
😭😂
Eventually, she RUNS.
Now she’s deliberately built herself the smallest, quietest life possible.
Two jobs.
Same routines.
Head down.
Don’t draw attention.
Don’t let anybody get close enough to discover what she’s hiding.
Except there’s one little problem.
ZYRAN HAS ALREADY NOTICED EVERYTHING.
🫠
Esperr thinks he’s just the mysterious man who comes into the coffee shop and orders the same thing every day.
Meanwhile Zyran is basically running a private intelligence operation on this woman.
He’s noticed her tells.
Her routines.
The cracks.
The things she thinks she’s hiding.
And he’s been quietly cataloging ALL OF IT.
SIR.
🚩
Continue.
🧎🏻♀️
Because we’re not doing regular romance here.
This is dark stalker romance.
And Ryan Mundy understood the assignment.
Zyran doesn’t look at Esperr and think:
I can fix her.
THANK GOD.
He sees the darkness.
He sees the damage.
He knows there’s something lurking underneath this carefully constructed harmless little life.
And essentially says:
Okay. Give it to me.
😭
There’s something about two damaged characters finding each other that gets me EVERY TIME.
Not because they magically heal each other.
But because there’s this moment of recognition.
You have ugly pieces too?
Cool.
Mine can sit beside yours.
🥹🖤
And honestly, that’s what I loved most about Zyran and Esperr.
At its core, this is actually a really emotional love story.
It’s just wrapped in stalking, obsession, hitmen, kidnapping, hidden identities and enough questionable behavior to make a therapist start taking notes.
MY KIND OF ROMANCE.
😂
And Zyran’s obsession?!
YES.
Because this isn’t:
He met her yesterday and now he’ll kill everyone.
He’s spent a YEAR watching this woman.
Esperr has quietly become part of his life before she even realizes she IS part of his life.
And meanwhile…
She’s noticed him too.
👀
She knows his coffee.
She knows when he’s supposed to show up.
And when he disappears?
SHE MISSES HIM.
Ohhhhhhh.
There it is.
😭
There’s something so good about two people unknowingly becoming pieces of each other’s routines before the relationship even begins.
And when Zyran finally stops watching from the sidelines?
THANK YOU, SYBIL.
👏🏻😂
Because apparently somebody needed to tell this man:
You’ve been obsessing over her for a year. Perhaps SPEAKING TO HER might be the logical next step.
Wild concept.
😭
The chemistry between Zyran and Esperr is a SLOW simmer.
And this time?
LET IT SIMMER.
Because these two NEED that time.
They’re both carrying too much baggage for me to believe they’d immediately spill their souls and ride into the sunset.
Esperr keeps secrets because she’s terrified of what happens if people discover who she really is.
Zyran keeps secrets because, in his very Zyran way, he thinks he’s protecting her.
Which obviously creates problems because…
MEN MAKING UNILATERAL DECISIONS “FOR HER OWN GOOD.”
My favorite source of fictional irritation.
😂
But I understood WHY they both behaved the way they did.
And that’s important.
Their trauma actually informs their decisions.
It isn’t slapped onto their character bios to make them edgy.
They’re both learning how to let another person see the pieces they’ve spent years hiding.
How to trust.
How to accept that being damaged doesn’t mean being undeserving of love.
And how to admit:
I’m actually not okay.
❤️🩹
I really appreciated that part of the story.
Especially with the mental-health representation woven into Esperr’s character. It felt like part of a larger person rather than the entirety of who she was.
And while all of this emotional healing is happening…
SOMEONE ELSE IS STALKING HER.
😐
Because apparently one stalker wasn’t enough.
😭😂
And NO, I’m not talking about Zyran.
We have a THIRD-PARTY threat quietly lurking in the background.
Which I LOVED.
Because you know something is coming.
You just don’t know when.
Esperr’s past is getting closer.
The danger keeps creeping in.
And Zyran?
Well…
You probably shouldn’t threaten the woman belonging to an obsessive hitman.
THAT FEELS LIKE POOR LIFE PLANNING.
😈
And can we discuss one of my favorite differences between these two?
Esperr has spent her entire life cleaning up other people’s darkness.
Zyran comes along and essentially says:
You don’t have to do that anymore. I’ll be the dangerous one.
HELLO?!
🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
That’s the fantasy right there.
Not:
I’ll save you because you’re helpless.
But:
You’ve survived enough. Let me carry some of this now.
YES.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
He’s obsessive.
Possessive.
Protective.
Morally questionable.
A hitman.
Touch her and d!e.
Eight-year age gap.
And devoted to her in a way that would absolutely require a restraining order outside my Kindle.
So naturally…
I LOVE HIM.
😭😂
And the TWISTS kept me invested beyond the romance.
Esperr’s past.
Zyran’s secrets.
The stalking.
His family.
Everything established in Tarnished continuing to ripple through this story.
There was always SOMETHING simmering underneath the surface.
Which is exactly why this series has me now.
These books aren’t just giving me dark romance and calling it a day.
There’s an actual interconnected world developing around these characters.
And now I want ALL THE BROTHERS.
👀
Specifically…
SLATER.
Ryan.
I’m looking directly at you.
😐👉🏻
GIVE ME SLATER.
😂
My biggest complaint?
WHERE WAS MY EPILOGUE?!
😭
After everything Zyran and Esperr went through, I wanted MORE.
Give me the little glimpse into their future.
Give me proof these two damaged weirdos are somewhere living their version of domestic bliss.
I don’t care if their domestic bliss involves coffee, weapons and questionable disposal methods.
I WANTED TO SEE IT.
😂
The ending just left me a tiny bit unsatisfied because I wasn’t READY to let them go.
And honestly?
That’s a pretty good problem for a book to give me.
I wanted another chapter because I cared about them.
If you love dark stalker romance, obsessive MMCs, morally gray men, hitmen, touch her and d!e, age gaps, hidden identities, slow burns, damaged characters finding safety in each other, suspense, trauma and healing, small-town settings and men whose idea of devotion would concern local law enforcement…
Welcome to Marked for Ruin.
😈🖤
Check the content warnings because this series absolutely earns the word dark.
But after Tarnished and now Craved?
I’m seated.
I’m invested.
I’m developing attachments to deeply concerning fictional men.
BUSINESS AS USUAL.
💅🏻😂
And Zyran?
He cataloged her.
Studied her.
Memorized her.
Waited for her.
Saw every dark thing she was trying desperately to hide…
And wanted her MORE because of it.
🚩🚩🚩
Some of you see red flags and turn around.
I see them and think:
Oh good. Someone marked the entrance.
😈🧎🏻♀️🖤
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Ohhhhh.
WE’RE BACK IN MY NATURAL HABITAT. 😈🖤
After Tarnished, I already had my eye on this series. But now that I’ve finished Craved???
Yeah.
Ryan Mundy, I see what you’re doing.
This series is VERY quickly becoming a favorite.
Because apparently my preferred love language is no longer words of affirmation.
It’s:
I’ve studied every single thing about you, memorized your routine, know exactly what you’re hiding, and will eliminate anyone who threatens you.
THERAPY COULD NEVER FIX ME.
😭😂
First things first:
READ TARNISHED BEFORE THIS ONE.
Could you technically stumble your way through without it?
Maybe.
Should you?
NO.
There is too much context from the first book that matters here, especially when it comes to Zyran, his family, and everything that changed him.
And after meeting Zyran in Tarnished, I was already like:
👀
What’s HIS deal?
Because the funny, mischievous, charming man we originally met?
He’s still in there.
But he’s been through some SH*T.
And the Zyran we get here is darker.
More damaged.
More intense.
And apparently has spent the better part of a YEAR quietly obsessing over one woman.
WELCOME HOME, EVERYONE.
😈😂
That woman is Esperr.
And Esperr might have one of the most concerning childhood skill sets I’ve encountered recently.
Good daughter.
Good liar.
Really good at cleaning up blood.
👁️👄👁️
Ma’am.
She wasn’t raised to be loved or protected.
She was raised to be useful.
Keep quiet.
Hide evidence.
Clean up other people’s sins.
Make bodies disappear.
Just another wholesome family activity!
😭😂
Eventually, she RUNS.
Now she’s deliberately built herself the smallest, quietest life possible.
Two jobs.
Same routines.
Head down.
Don’t draw attention.
Don’t let anybody get close enough to discover what she’s hiding.
Except there’s one little problem.
ZYRAN HAS ALREADY NOTICED EVERYTHING.
🫠
Esperr thinks he’s just the mysterious man who comes into the coffee shop and orders the same thing every day.
Meanwhile Zyran is basically running a private intelligence operation on this woman.
He’s noticed her tells.
Her routines.
The cracks.
The things she thinks she’s hiding.
And he’s been quietly cataloging ALL OF IT.
SIR.
🚩
Continue.
🧎🏻♀️
Because we’re not doing regular romance here.
This is dark stalker romance.
And Ryan Mundy understood the assignment.
Zyran doesn’t look at Esperr and think:
I can fix her.
THANK GOD.
He sees the darkness.
He sees the damage.
He knows there’s something lurking underneath this carefully constructed harmless little life.
And essentially says:
Okay. Give it to me.
😭
There’s something about two damaged characters finding each other that gets me EVERY TIME.
Not because they magically heal each other.
But because there’s this moment of recognition.
You have ugly pieces too?
Cool.
Mine can sit beside yours.
🥹🖤
And honestly, that’s what I loved most about Zyran and Esperr.
At its core, this is actually a really emotional love story.
It’s just wrapped in stalking, obsession, hitmen, kidnapping, hidden identities and enough questionable behavior to make a therapist start taking notes.
MY KIND OF ROMANCE.
😂
And Zyran’s obsession?!
YES.
Because this isn’t:
He met her yesterday and now he’ll kill everyone.
He’s spent a YEAR watching this woman.
Esperr has quietly become part of his life before she even realizes she IS part of his life.
And meanwhile…
She’s noticed him too.
👀
She knows his coffee.
She knows when he’s supposed to show up.
And when he disappears?
SHE MISSES HIM.
Ohhhhhhh.
There it is.
😭
There’s something so good about two people unknowingly becoming pieces of each other’s routines before the relationship even begins.
And when Zyran finally stops watching from the sidelines?
THANK YOU, SYBIL.
👏🏻😂
Because apparently somebody needed to tell this man:
You’ve been obsessing over her for a year. Perhaps SPEAKING TO HER might be the logical next step.
Wild concept.
😭
The chemistry between Zyran and Esperr is a SLOW simmer.
And this time?
LET IT SIMMER.
Because these two NEED that time.
They’re both carrying too much baggage for me to believe they’d immediately spill their souls and ride into the sunset.
Esperr keeps secrets because she’s terrified of what happens if people discover who she really is.
Zyran keeps secrets because, in his very Zyran way, he thinks he’s protecting her.
Which obviously creates problems because…
MEN MAKING UNILATERAL DECISIONS “FOR HER OWN GOOD.”
My favorite source of fictional irritation.
😂
But I understood WHY they both behaved the way they did.
And that’s important.
Their trauma actually informs their decisions.
It isn’t slapped onto their character bios to make them edgy.
They’re both learning how to let another person see the pieces they’ve spent years hiding.
How to trust.
How to accept that being damaged doesn’t mean being undeserving of love.
And how to admit:
I’m actually not okay.
❤️🩹
I really appreciated that part of the story.
Especially with the mental-health representation woven into Esperr’s character. It felt like part of a larger person rather than the entirety of who she was.
And while all of this emotional healing is happening…
SOMEONE ELSE IS STALKING HER.
😐
Because apparently one stalker wasn’t enough.
😭😂
And NO, I’m not talking about Zyran.
We have a THIRD-PARTY threat quietly lurking in the background.
Which I LOVED.
Because you know something is coming.
You just don’t know when.
Esperr’s past is getting closer.
The danger keeps creeping in.
And Zyran?
Well…
You probably shouldn’t threaten the woman belonging to an obsessive hitman.
THAT FEELS LIKE POOR LIFE PLANNING.
😈
And can we discuss one of my favorite differences between these two?
Esperr has spent her entire life cleaning up other people’s darkness.
Zyran comes along and essentially says:
You don’t have to do that anymore. I’ll be the dangerous one.
HELLO?!
🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️
That’s the fantasy right there.
Not:
I’ll save you because you’re helpless.
But:
You’ve survived enough. Let me carry some of this now.
YES.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
He’s obsessive.
Possessive.
Protective.
Morally questionable.
A hitman.
Touch her and d!e.
Eight-year age gap.
And devoted to her in a way that would absolutely require a restraining order outside my Kindle.
So naturally…
I LOVE HIM.
😭😂
And the TWISTS kept me invested beyond the romance.
Esperr’s past.
Zyran’s secrets.
The stalking.
His family.
Everything established in Tarnished continuing to ripple through this story.
There was always SOMETHING simmering underneath the surface.
Which is exactly why this series has me now.
These books aren’t just giving me dark romance and calling it a day.
There’s an actual interconnected world developing around these characters.
And now I want ALL THE BROTHERS.
👀
Specifically…
SLATER.
Ryan.
I’m looking directly at you.
😐👉🏻
GIVE ME SLATER.
😂
My biggest complaint?
WHERE WAS MY EPILOGUE?!
😭
After everything Zyran and Esperr went through, I wanted MORE.
Give me the little glimpse into their future.
Give me proof these two damaged weirdos are somewhere living their version of domestic bliss.
I don’t care if their domestic bliss involves coffee, weapons and questionable disposal methods.
I WANTED TO SEE IT.
😂
The ending just left me a tiny bit unsatisfied because I wasn’t READY to let them go.
And honestly?
That’s a pretty good problem for a book to give me.
I wanted another chapter because I cared about them.
If you love dark stalker romance, obsessive MMCs, morally gray men, hitmen, touch her and d!e, age gaps, hidden identities, slow burns, damaged characters finding safety in each other, suspense, trauma and healing, small-town settings and men whose idea of devotion would concern local law enforcement…
Welcome to Marked for Ruin.
😈🖤
Check the content warnings because this series absolutely earns the word dark.
But after Tarnished and now Craved?
I’m seated.
I’m invested.
I’m developing attachments to deeply concerning fictional men.
BUSINESS AS USUAL.
💅🏻😂
And Zyran?
He cataloged her.
Studied her.
Memorized her.
Waited for her.
Saw every dark thing she was trying desperately to hide…
And wanted her MORE because of it.
🚩🚩🚩
Some of you see red flags and turn around.
I see them and think:
Oh good. Someone marked the entrance.
😈🧎🏻♀️🖤
August 1, 2026
✨Arc Copy✨
Rating: 3⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Yearning: 3🔥
Darkness: 2🖤
🧬Genre: Dark Stalker Romance
📚Tropes: Touch Her & Die, Age Gap (8yrs), Kidnapping, Hitman
🤏Microtropes: Small Town, Obsessive MMC, Hidden Identity, Slow burn
😈Kinks: Breath Play, Fisting, Squirting
🛑TWs: BPD Rep
📝Review:
- a little too slow burn for me, I’m personally just not a fan of that trope.
- I did have to force myself to finish this book. Not necessarily because of the writing or author, I’m just a mood reader & lately have been struggling with several books. So I know this book is not to blame for my lack of interest. I wish that I was in a better headspace to read & enjoy this book.
💬Fav Quotes:
- “Maybe broken girls don’t need redemption. Maybe we need someone willing to kill for us & call it love.”
- “Because if he were stalking me…I didn’t mind. I liked the feeling of being wanted, even if it was silent, even if it wasn’t real.”
Rating: 3⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Yearning: 3🔥
Darkness: 2🖤
🧬Genre: Dark Stalker Romance
📚Tropes: Touch Her & Die, Age Gap (8yrs), Kidnapping, Hitman
🤏Microtropes: Small Town, Obsessive MMC, Hidden Identity, Slow burn
😈Kinks: Breath Play, Fisting, Squirting
🛑TWs: BPD Rep
📝Review:
- a little too slow burn for me, I’m personally just not a fan of that trope.
- I did have to force myself to finish this book. Not necessarily because of the writing or author, I’m just a mood reader & lately have been struggling with several books. So I know this book is not to blame for my lack of interest. I wish that I was in a better headspace to read & enjoy this book.
💬Fav Quotes:
- “Maybe broken girls don’t need redemption. Maybe we need someone willing to kill for us & call it love.”
- “Because if he were stalking me…I didn’t mind. I liked the feeling of being wanted, even if it was silent, even if it wasn’t real.”
August 13, 2026
This was another good read. I really enjoyed the storyline. I just wish there was another book in the series.
July 31, 2026
𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒓: 𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝑰 𝒂𝒎 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒕𝒐 𝑹𝒚𝒂𝒏 𝑴𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎, 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏.
𝘽𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙨.
Craved is the second book in Ryan Mundy’s Marked for Ruin series and should be read after Tarnished as the events of book one are somewhat essential to understanding this story.
This is Zyran and Esperr’s story.
After meeting our MMC, Zyran in Tarnished, I knew I needed his book next, so thank you Ryan for not making me wait.
The funny, mischievous and charmingly cheeky man we first met has been changed by everything he’s endured. For the past year he’s quietly obsessed over Esperr, the coffee shop hostess who has become the centre of his world. Encouraged by Sybil, his brother’s girlfriend, he finally stops watching from the sidelines and decides to make his move.
Esperr, our FMC, is carrying wounds of her own. She’s running from her past but has found comfort in this town and the routines she’s built for herself. The mysterious man who orders the same coffee every day has quietly become part of that routine. When he suddenly disappears, she finds herself hoping he’ll return. And then one day he does…
The chemistry between these two simmers from the very beginning without either of them recognising it. Together they slowly learn to trust, heal and confront the painful memories they’ve both been carrying.
We know early on that Esperr is being stalked (by a third party other than Zyran) but Ryan Mundy keeps that threat lurking in the background, creating a constant sense of tension as you wait for everything to unravel.
My View: At its heart this is a beautiful love story wrapped in obsessive stalker vibes between two damaged people. Esperr keeps secrets out of fear while Zyran keeps secrets to protect her. The character development is excellent and the slow burn is well worth the wait. The story is packed with tension, emotion and plenty of twists as the past finally catches up with them.
My only criticism is the ending. I really missed having an epilogue. With everything these characters endured, I would have loved one final glimpse into their future and was left feeling just a we bit unsatisfied without it. However, it’s left me eagerly anticipating which brother gets his story next. I’m hoping it’s Slater. Yes Ryan, I’m looking at you!
𝘽𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙨.
Craved is the second book in Ryan Mundy’s Marked for Ruin series and should be read after Tarnished as the events of book one are somewhat essential to understanding this story.
This is Zyran and Esperr’s story.
After meeting our MMC, Zyran in Tarnished, I knew I needed his book next, so thank you Ryan for not making me wait.
The funny, mischievous and charmingly cheeky man we first met has been changed by everything he’s endured. For the past year he’s quietly obsessed over Esperr, the coffee shop hostess who has become the centre of his world. Encouraged by Sybil, his brother’s girlfriend, he finally stops watching from the sidelines and decides to make his move.
Esperr, our FMC, is carrying wounds of her own. She’s running from her past but has found comfort in this town and the routines she’s built for herself. The mysterious man who orders the same coffee every day has quietly become part of that routine. When he suddenly disappears, she finds herself hoping he’ll return. And then one day he does…
The chemistry between these two simmers from the very beginning without either of them recognising it. Together they slowly learn to trust, heal and confront the painful memories they’ve both been carrying.
We know early on that Esperr is being stalked (by a third party other than Zyran) but Ryan Mundy keeps that threat lurking in the background, creating a constant sense of tension as you wait for everything to unravel.
My View: At its heart this is a beautiful love story wrapped in obsessive stalker vibes between two damaged people. Esperr keeps secrets out of fear while Zyran keeps secrets to protect her. The character development is excellent and the slow burn is well worth the wait. The story is packed with tension, emotion and plenty of twists as the past finally catches up with them.
My only criticism is the ending. I really missed having an epilogue. With everything these characters endured, I would have loved one final glimpse into their future and was left feeling just a we bit unsatisfied without it. However, it’s left me eagerly anticipating which brother gets his story next. I’m hoping it’s Slater. Yes Ryan, I’m looking at you!
July 31, 2026
4.6/5 ⭐️
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed using the P.E.A.C.H. Rating System (Plot, Enjoyment, Artistry, Characters, Heart), developed by Erin Smith.
A dark romance with a morally grey MMC and an equally morally grey FMC, exactly the kind of chaotic energy fans of Haunting Adeline and Taming Seraphine will love.
Yes, it’s stalker romance. Yes, he falls first. Yes, he’s morally grey. But her past? Absolutely insane in the best way.
Please read the trigger warnings before jumping in! ⚠️
Plot: 5/5
I thought the plot was brilliant. Ryan drops hints about Esper’s past so cleverly — all that cleaning and counter‑wiping? Genius foreshadowing. The reveal hits right when it should. The force proximity was also *chefs kiss* !
Enjoyment: 4/5
This book kicks off with a bang before you even reach chapter one. The pacing is strong overall, but the ending felt a little too rushed for me. I would have loved the Michael storyline to stretch out more and give us a proper chase.
Artistry: 4/5
The writing style definitely gives H.D. Carlton vibes (in the best way). There were a few tiny typos in the ARC, but nothing that pulled me out of the story. And again, the cleaning motif? Loved it!
Characters: 5/5
Esperr is such a refreshing FMC for dark romance. She’s smart, makes solid decisions, and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. And Zyran, hes incredibly patient and understanding, given his occupation and let's just say he knows how to look after a women. The side characters were great too, I’d happily read their books.
Heart: 5/5
I genuinely loved everything about this story: the characters, their backstory, the side cast.
There is a prequel, Tarnished, which I haven’t read yet, but I’ll be going back for it. You don’t need it to enjoy this book, but if you want more Zyran content, it’s worth grabbing.
Spice (Not part of P.E.A.C.H.) – 3/5 🌶
There is definite spice, and the first scene had me blushing!
Final Thoughts:
A very solid 4.6/5 from me. (Rounded to the nearest whole star for goodreads!)
A huge thanks to Ryan and the team for the ARC — I’m already excited to dive into more of Ryan’s releases!
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed using the P.E.A.C.H. Rating System (Plot, Enjoyment, Artistry, Characters, Heart), developed by Erin Smith.
A dark romance with a morally grey MMC and an equally morally grey FMC, exactly the kind of chaotic energy fans of Haunting Adeline and Taming Seraphine will love.
Yes, it’s stalker romance. Yes, he falls first. Yes, he’s morally grey. But her past? Absolutely insane in the best way.
Please read the trigger warnings before jumping in! ⚠️
Plot: 5/5
I thought the plot was brilliant. Ryan drops hints about Esper’s past so cleverly — all that cleaning and counter‑wiping? Genius foreshadowing. The reveal hits right when it should. The force proximity was also *chefs kiss* !
Enjoyment: 4/5
This book kicks off with a bang before you even reach chapter one. The pacing is strong overall, but the ending felt a little too rushed for me. I would have loved the Michael storyline to stretch out more and give us a proper chase.
Artistry: 4/5
The writing style definitely gives H.D. Carlton vibes (in the best way). There were a few tiny typos in the ARC, but nothing that pulled me out of the story. And again, the cleaning motif? Loved it!
Characters: 5/5
Esperr is such a refreshing FMC for dark romance. She’s smart, makes solid decisions, and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. And Zyran, hes incredibly patient and understanding, given his occupation and let's just say he knows how to look after a women. The side characters were great too, I’d happily read their books.
Heart: 5/5
I genuinely loved everything about this story: the characters, their backstory, the side cast.
There is a prequel, Tarnished, which I haven’t read yet, but I’ll be going back for it. You don’t need it to enjoy this book, but if you want more Zyran content, it’s worth grabbing.
Spice (Not part of P.E.A.C.H.) – 3/5 🌶
There is definite spice, and the first scene had me blushing!
Final Thoughts:
A very solid 4.6/5 from me. (Rounded to the nearest whole star for goodreads!)
A huge thanks to Ryan and the team for the ARC — I’m already excited to dive into more of Ryan’s releases!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW! First of all, I am so thankful to Ryan Mundy and team for selecting me for an ARC read of CRAVED!
WOW.
Where do I even start? This is one of those reads that sneaks up on you, surprises you in all the best ways possible, and makes you want to share with everyone you know. I was not prepared for the emotional turmoil or the two A.M. binge reading this book put me through. This book totally and completely blew through my expectations. I absolutely LOVED this storyline; the characters and plot were so cohesive, and I could not put this book down!!
CRAVED is written so seamlessly, I feel like I am right there in the scene with Zyran and Esperr. Every little detail builds the world in a way that's not too overbearing, and every interaction (internal or external) is fine-tuned so perfectly for each character. I truly feel like I'm reliving that nightmare in Zyran's head, or the panic of Esperr when she's on edge.
Mundy sprinkles in a perfect blend of twists and wordplay that keeps you wanting to read more and more; she has created some very lovable yet REAL characters.
Yeah, Zyran and Esperr. OMG. Literally my favorite dynamic ever. Love a respectful yet internally down bad man. AND he has nightmares? How'd you know that's my weakness. WHERE DO I SIGN UP? A moment for the morally grey FMC...LOVE HER. Craving pancakes after Dean??? I'm crying. Being snowed in with Zyran? Unpacking her past??? WE LOVE TO SEE THE GROWTH.
I am so grateful to have received an ARC copy of Craved, and I can't wait for release day!!!
Some of my favorite lines:
"...asking about my favorite color. I didn't have one. Not until I saw her eyes, and then that bright shade of blue, the kind that's brighter than the ocean, became my favorite."
(F*CCCKKKK)
"And for the first time, someone else touches my neck without me flinching."
(HAD ME SCREAMING)
"He's dangerous, I know that. But he's not dangerous to me."
(The moment she realizes she can relax around him...sobbing.)
WOW.
Where do I even start? This is one of those reads that sneaks up on you, surprises you in all the best ways possible, and makes you want to share with everyone you know. I was not prepared for the emotional turmoil or the two A.M. binge reading this book put me through. This book totally and completely blew through my expectations. I absolutely LOVED this storyline; the characters and plot were so cohesive, and I could not put this book down!!
CRAVED is written so seamlessly, I feel like I am right there in the scene with Zyran and Esperr. Every little detail builds the world in a way that's not too overbearing, and every interaction (internal or external) is fine-tuned so perfectly for each character. I truly feel like I'm reliving that nightmare in Zyran's head, or the panic of Esperr when she's on edge.
Mundy sprinkles in a perfect blend of twists and wordplay that keeps you wanting to read more and more; she has created some very lovable yet REAL characters.
Yeah, Zyran and Esperr. OMG. Literally my favorite dynamic ever. Love a respectful yet internally down bad man. AND he has nightmares? How'd you know that's my weakness. WHERE DO I SIGN UP? A moment for the morally grey FMC...LOVE HER. Craving pancakes after Dean??? I'm crying. Being snowed in with Zyran? Unpacking her past??? WE LOVE TO SEE THE GROWTH.
I am so grateful to have received an ARC copy of Craved, and I can't wait for release day!!!
Some of my favorite lines:
"...asking about my favorite color. I didn't have one. Not until I saw her eyes, and then that bright shade of blue, the kind that's brighter than the ocean, became my favorite."
(F*CCCKKKK)
"And for the first time, someone else touches my neck without me flinching."
(HAD ME SCREAMING)
"He's dangerous, I know that. But he's not dangerous to me."
(The moment she realizes she can relax around him...sobbing.)
July 31, 2026
I was so happy to have received an ARC of this book! Zyran and Esperr had a tragic, traumatically beautiful love story. What happens when both the MMC and FMC are morally gray? They take you on a wild ride!
Esperr seems like you typically hard working gal with two jobs and a beat down apartment. But, Esperr has a secret, actually she has many. She sees Zyran come in to her coffee shop one day and seeing him on a daily basis has become the highlight of her day until one day he stops coming in. Everytime the door pings she is constantly looking up hoping it’s this stranger she has become infatuated with.
Zyran becomes obsessed with the girl behind the counter at the coffee shop he stalks her, and can’t seem to stay away. Little does Esperr know that Zyran is a professional hit man. He gets injured during a job and doesn’t return to the coffee shop for a year. When he finally does return to see Esperr he is determined to making her his. With both dark worlds and demons colliding, they both help each other heal in a way that no one else can but each other. When Esperr’s past comes looking for her, it’s up to Zyran to be the one to stay by her side so she never feels alone again. It was a slow burner for sure but when the spice hit, it was SPICY! Their chemistry was off the charts and I fell in love with all of Zyran’s family. I absolutely loved the moments they spent together as a family. The way they kept Zyran and the coffee joke going had me laughing.
This was my first read by Ryan but will not be my last. I look forward to the rest of the brother’s stories. Now I have to go back and read book 1 to catch up. This a dark romance, please read your TW if you have any.
Esperr seems like you typically hard working gal with two jobs and a beat down apartment. But, Esperr has a secret, actually she has many. She sees Zyran come in to her coffee shop one day and seeing him on a daily basis has become the highlight of her day until one day he stops coming in. Everytime the door pings she is constantly looking up hoping it’s this stranger she has become infatuated with.
Zyran becomes obsessed with the girl behind the counter at the coffee shop he stalks her, and can’t seem to stay away. Little does Esperr know that Zyran is a professional hit man. He gets injured during a job and doesn’t return to the coffee shop for a year. When he finally does return to see Esperr he is determined to making her his. With both dark worlds and demons colliding, they both help each other heal in a way that no one else can but each other. When Esperr’s past comes looking for her, it’s up to Zyran to be the one to stay by her side so she never feels alone again. It was a slow burner for sure but when the spice hit, it was SPICY! Their chemistry was off the charts and I fell in love with all of Zyran’s family. I absolutely loved the moments they spent together as a family. The way they kept Zyran and the coffee joke going had me laughing.
This was my first read by Ryan but will not be my last. I look forward to the rest of the brother’s stories. Now I have to go back and read book 1 to catch up. This a dark romance, please read your TW if you have any.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy crow, y'all!! I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! This was my first read of Ryan's and I was blown away! Excellent plot, excellent banter, stellar smut. Right down to when Zyran states "my second thought is to make a "mommy" joke and have her call me a bad boy. Maybe I have mommy issues? Shit, I'd probably let her peg me if she wanted to."
Zyran and Esperr each have some heavy past trauma they negotiate through almost daily. But when he happens into the coffee shop she works at, that visit begins a year long stalking obsession for him. Except when he disappears and stops coming in for a year.
She has been stalked previously and trusts her gut, mostly. So she recognizes when the hairs on the back of her neck tingle to alert her. Except this time, she doesn't feel the fear from the past. It's not the same as before.
So when he shows back up and then also appears after a man has assaulted her in an alleyway behind her work, she actually rolls with it. Because she has a past history not that dissimilar to his. Dead bodies don't necessarily freak her out.
But when he encounters her facedown on her bathroom floor, dealing with a concussion/migraine from the assault-she freaks out. Once she comes to.
Cue a week long storm (snowed in and no one going anywhere) where Zyran decides to shoot his shot, get stuck in her apartment and let her get to know him.
There is much more to this story and be sure to check your TWs as there are potential heavy ones. But I adored this couple and also Zyran's family. Hope to see more of the other brothers!
Zyran and Esperr each have some heavy past trauma they negotiate through almost daily. But when he happens into the coffee shop she works at, that visit begins a year long stalking obsession for him. Except when he disappears and stops coming in for a year.
She has been stalked previously and trusts her gut, mostly. So she recognizes when the hairs on the back of her neck tingle to alert her. Except this time, she doesn't feel the fear from the past. It's not the same as before.
So when he shows back up and then also appears after a man has assaulted her in an alleyway behind her work, she actually rolls with it. Because she has a past history not that dissimilar to his. Dead bodies don't necessarily freak her out.
But when he encounters her facedown on her bathroom floor, dealing with a concussion/migraine from the assault-she freaks out. Once she comes to.
Cue a week long storm (snowed in and no one going anywhere) where Zyran decides to shoot his shot, get stuck in her apartment and let her get to know him.
There is much more to this story and be sure to check your TWs as there are potential heavy ones. But I adored this couple and also Zyran's family. Hope to see more of the other brothers!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I literally judged this book by its cover and immediately thought, "Yep... that looks like a bit of me." 💀🖤 And then I saw the trigger warning menu... followed by the elite playlist... I knew I was in for a ride.
A morally grey MMC and FMC? 👀 Now that is my kind of chaos. It's a refreshing change from what I usually read, and I absolutely loved it. There is just something about characters who take out the bad people that pulls me in every single time.
The character development in this book is phenomenal. Every chapter adds another layer of emotional depth, not only to the main characters but also to the relationships they build with each other and those around them. I became so invested in their journey that I could genuinely see this being adapted for the screen one day.
This is the definition of a slow burn. The tension builds so perfectly that by the time the spice finally arrives... WOW. It is absolutely worth the wait and left me craving so much more.
And can we take a moment for Zyran? 🥵 You have officially earned yourself a place in the @WhatMrsDobbsReads Book Boyfriend Hall of Fame. Congratulations—you've joined an elite group.
Ryan Mundy has completely hooked me with this one, and I already need more from this world.
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
🖤 Morally Grey Duo: 10/10 👀
🔥 Slow Burn: Absolutely worth the wait
📖 Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A morally grey MMC and FMC? 👀 Now that is my kind of chaos. It's a refreshing change from what I usually read, and I absolutely loved it. There is just something about characters who take out the bad people that pulls me in every single time.
The character development in this book is phenomenal. Every chapter adds another layer of emotional depth, not only to the main characters but also to the relationships they build with each other and those around them. I became so invested in their journey that I could genuinely see this being adapted for the screen one day.
This is the definition of a slow burn. The tension builds so perfectly that by the time the spice finally arrives... WOW. It is absolutely worth the wait and left me craving so much more.
And can we take a moment for Zyran? 🥵 You have officially earned yourself a place in the @WhatMrsDobbsReads Book Boyfriend Hall of Fame. Congratulations—you've joined an elite group.
Ryan Mundy has completely hooked me with this one, and I already need more from this world.
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
🖤 Morally Grey Duo: 10/10 👀
🔥 Slow Burn: Absolutely worth the wait
📖 Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 5, 2026
Ughhhh my heart is so full…
I was so happy to be back in this world, and back with these characters…. Zyran & Esperr were everything! What a pair honestly. I absolutely devoured their story, Zyran had me weak at the knees, that man ugh I just love him sm. The way he loved Esperr so damn hard pulled at my heart. He was the one who showed up, time and time again when she didn’t even know she needed it, she was hell bent on doing things her way, and doing so alone, but Zyran proved he could be trusted with her heart. The way that man yearned for her… he was completely perfect for Esperr in every single way! The spice, FIRE…. In the words of Ryan I was also a “slip and slide”. 😂 and the “hands and knees” scene OMG. Obsessed. So original. LOVED it so much!
It’s safe to say I had a really great time with this one. And I look forward to reading the other brothers 👀
It was well paced, gritty and angsty story.
It’s also a story of self discovery, coming to terms with the fact that’s it’s ok to not be okay, and letting your guard down and sharing parts of yourself when you didn’t think you could, or deserved to.
I was so happy to see Sybil & Raiden again, and seeing another side to their family!
The plot twist?! Loved that, no idea that was coming!
And don’t get me started on the other brothers… 😏 umm NEED.
Absolutely loved it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I was so happy to be back in this world, and back with these characters…. Zyran & Esperr were everything! What a pair honestly. I absolutely devoured their story, Zyran had me weak at the knees, that man ugh I just love him sm. The way he loved Esperr so damn hard pulled at my heart. He was the one who showed up, time and time again when she didn’t even know she needed it, she was hell bent on doing things her way, and doing so alone, but Zyran proved he could be trusted with her heart. The way that man yearned for her… he was completely perfect for Esperr in every single way! The spice, FIRE…. In the words of Ryan I was also a “slip and slide”. 😂 and the “hands and knees” scene OMG. Obsessed. So original. LOVED it so much!
It’s safe to say I had a really great time with this one. And I look forward to reading the other brothers 👀
It was well paced, gritty and angsty story.
It’s also a story of self discovery, coming to terms with the fact that’s it’s ok to not be okay, and letting your guard down and sharing parts of yourself when you didn’t think you could, or deserved to.
I was so happy to see Sybil & Raiden again, and seeing another side to their family!
The plot twist?! Loved that, no idea that was coming!
And don’t get me started on the other brothers… 😏 umm NEED.
Absolutely loved it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
August 2, 2026
I’m not perfect at book reviews but here i go.
As always Ryan mundy is my go to read! This book was amazing!!! And that extended ending!
Warning - read trigger warnings
Recommendation- read book 1 tarnished before you read craved!!!
I was excited to get pulled onto Zyran story, especially after reading Sybil and Raiden story. I was excited to see Zyran having a story, It was good to continue it. I love that Sybil also shows up a lot in this book, it was good to see her again. This was a really good read! It’s a slow burn, but the build up to the burn was good! I would recommend reading tarnished before reading this one. I personally like to tab as I read, so if I don’t remember something or question something I can go back to that tabbed page. When I first started reading chapter 1 and 2 I couldn’t fully remember what happened in book 1, so I was happy I tab that book lol, once I got my orders back in place, reading the book went very smoothly. Ryan knows how to pull you into a story as always, she does amazing job. I love characters and story line, it was true perfection. This is a 5 star read and I would give it 3 peppers for spice. Zyran my little (correction big) stalker man lol.
As always Ryan mundy is my go to read! This book was amazing!!! And that extended ending!
Warning - read trigger warnings
Recommendation- read book 1 tarnished before you read craved!!!
I was excited to get pulled onto Zyran story, especially after reading Sybil and Raiden story. I was excited to see Zyran having a story, It was good to continue it. I love that Sybil also shows up a lot in this book, it was good to see her again. This was a really good read! It’s a slow burn, but the build up to the burn was good! I would recommend reading tarnished before reading this one. I personally like to tab as I read, so if I don’t remember something or question something I can go back to that tabbed page. When I first started reading chapter 1 and 2 I couldn’t fully remember what happened in book 1, so I was happy I tab that book lol, once I got my orders back in place, reading the book went very smoothly. Ryan knows how to pull you into a story as always, she does amazing job. I love characters and story line, it was true perfection. This is a 5 star read and I would give it 3 peppers for spice. Zyran my little (correction big) stalker man lol.
August 5, 2026
First let me start by saying I went back and forth a lot on what to rate this book. It’s probably more of a 4.5 the only reason I am holding back on a solid 5 is that there were a few times the story line felt off. For example they have a conversation about him living with his brothers and he tells her there are four of them. Then later on he mentions brothers and she acts as if this is totally new information and he is once again saying there are four. This snapped me out of the story a bit as I was like whoah Déjà vu.
That being said the way these characters are written is
Deeply moving. You could feel their pain as if you were experiencing it. It was raw and beautiful. Watching them grow together and start to heal was magical.
And the plot twist at the end *chefs kiss*. After it was revealed I was like oh, that’s why she made that remark to lay the foundation. I don’t want to give too much away so that’s all I will say about that.
I’d say the spice is about a 3.5. It’s descriptive and frequent once they’ve connected but it’s nothing too out of the norm as long as you’re comfortable with a little butt play. 🤣
Seriously give this book a read. But make sure to read the TW first as it is a pretty dark and heavy book.
*I received this book as an ARC reader*
That being said the way these characters are written is
Deeply moving. You could feel their pain as if you were experiencing it. It was raw and beautiful. Watching them grow together and start to heal was magical.
And the plot twist at the end *chefs kiss*. After it was revealed I was like oh, that’s why she made that remark to lay the foundation. I don’t want to give too much away so that’s all I will say about that.
I’d say the spice is about a 3.5. It’s descriptive and frequent once they’ve connected but it’s nothing too out of the norm as long as you’re comfortable with a little butt play. 🤣
Seriously give this book a read. But make sure to read the TW first as it is a pretty dark and heavy book.
*I received this book as an ARC reader*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
First, thank you Ryan for the advanced copy! I was hooked when I read Tarnished and was so excited to get Craved early.
If you haven’t read Tarnished yet, I highly recommend reading that before Craved so that you get the back story of Zyran.
Zyran has been through a lot and like most men, he keeps it all to himself. He goes through his days trying to make everyone around him think he is okay while barely having enough fight to continue on each day. That is, until he goes back to the coffee shop to see her. Something always pulls him to her.
Esperr has demons of her own she tries to hide. Going through the motions of every day life while simultaneously watch over her shoulder. Zyran coming into the coffee shop is something she always looked forward to and could count on. When he stops she doesn’t know how to take it.
These two have a strong connection before they even realize it. The way they’re able to ground each other and knowing what the other needs without words is perfection. There isn’t a ton of spice but there is some and she definitely makes those times count!
‼️ Make sure you read the trigger warnings ‼️
First, thank you Ryan for the advanced copy! I was hooked when I read Tarnished and was so excited to get Craved early.
If you haven’t read Tarnished yet, I highly recommend reading that before Craved so that you get the back story of Zyran.
Zyran has been through a lot and like most men, he keeps it all to himself. He goes through his days trying to make everyone around him think he is okay while barely having enough fight to continue on each day. That is, until he goes back to the coffee shop to see her. Something always pulls him to her.
Esperr has demons of her own she tries to hide. Going through the motions of every day life while simultaneously watch over her shoulder. Zyran coming into the coffee shop is something she always looked forward to and could count on. When he stops she doesn’t know how to take it.
These two have a strong connection before they even realize it. The way they’re able to ground each other and knowing what the other needs without words is perfection. There isn’t a ton of spice but there is some and she definitely makes those times count!
‼️ Make sure you read the trigger warnings ‼️
July 31, 2026
Craved was a slow burn in every sense of the word. It took me a while to really settle into the story, and I think the pacing will be the deciding factor for a lot of readers. Once the main characters finally came together, though, I found myself much more invested.
The emotional foundation between the characters was built well, and the amount of trauma they each carried made their relationship feel earned. I could understand why things unfolded the way they did, even if I personally wished they got there a little sooner.
The writing leans heavily into rich description. For readers who love immersive, highly detailed worlds, that'll probably be one of the book's biggest strengths. For me, some of those descriptive passages felt a little longer than necessary, and I occasionally found myself skimming without feeling like I missed anything.
I also loved that the book simply... ended. No epilogue, just a satisfying conclusion that let the story stand on its own.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with a unique concept, emotionally layered characters, and a romance that really shines once it gets moving.
The emotional foundation between the characters was built well, and the amount of trauma they each carried made their relationship feel earned. I could understand why things unfolded the way they did, even if I personally wished they got there a little sooner.
The writing leans heavily into rich description. For readers who love immersive, highly detailed worlds, that'll probably be one of the book's biggest strengths. For me, some of those descriptive passages felt a little longer than necessary, and I occasionally found myself skimming without feeling like I missed anything.
I also loved that the book simply... ended. No epilogue, just a satisfying conclusion that let the story stand on its own.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with a unique concept, emotionally layered characters, and a romance that really shines once it gets moving.
July 31, 2026
This was my first by Ryan Mundy and I loved every minute of it. This book has me wanting to go back and read the first one. The way Ryan writes makes you feel every emotion each of the characters feel. I can’t wait to read more from her.
This story follows Esperr and Zyran. Esperr, who was always looks over her shoulder, finds herself finally getting a little comfortable in the town she ran out of gas in. Working in the coffee shop leads her to meeting a mysterious guy who comes in everyday ordering the same thing.
Zyran who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders finds the one person who quiets his mind. That is, until a wrench gets thrown in a job, he finds himself not able to return to his routine.
Everyone has a past and sometimes we can’t out run it. It will come back to haunt your nightmares or even everyday life. No matter how much we try to forget, it’s always there. Sometimes, the past can be hidden in plain sight and we not even know.
Can Esperr finally breathe after running for so long? Can Zyran finally find someone who can help quiet those haunting nightmares? Read Craved to find out!
This story follows Esperr and Zyran. Esperr, who was always looks over her shoulder, finds herself finally getting a little comfortable in the town she ran out of gas in. Working in the coffee shop leads her to meeting a mysterious guy who comes in everyday ordering the same thing.
Zyran who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders finds the one person who quiets his mind. That is, until a wrench gets thrown in a job, he finds himself not able to return to his routine.
Everyone has a past and sometimes we can’t out run it. It will come back to haunt your nightmares or even everyday life. No matter how much we try to forget, it’s always there. Sometimes, the past can be hidden in plain sight and we not even know.
Can Esperr finally breathe after running for so long? Can Zyran finally find someone who can help quiet those haunting nightmares? Read Craved to find out!
August 3, 2026
ARC Review: Craved by Ryan Mundy
Release Date: July 31st, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! This book was so deep and so dark with the obsession and the back stories and all the secrets. God was I Turing the pages eagerly.
Zyran (MMC) is like a more tame version of Zade from Haunting Adeline. I literally got the same vibes. He is so sweet and caring with Esperr (FMC) and it shows that he isn’t all hardened with trauma that he is still himself at the end of the day. His possessiveness is top tier down to having his brother find out everything about her. LOVED HIM.
Esperr (FMC) is seemingly sweet and all butterflies and rainbows in the beginning and she keeps a secret almost throughout the entire book. And she isn’t who she says she is at all. She has a darkness to her and a sass that rivals Zyran’s personality and they have great banter. The spicy scenes are just that SPICY 🌶️. I did give this a 3/5 only because I feel that I have read darker and kinkier spicy scenes. Nothing wrong with that because these scenes were still great!!
Please read the trigger warnings this book might not be for you and that’s okay!
Release Date: July 31st, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! This book was so deep and so dark with the obsession and the back stories and all the secrets. God was I Turing the pages eagerly.
Zyran (MMC) is like a more tame version of Zade from Haunting Adeline. I literally got the same vibes. He is so sweet and caring with Esperr (FMC) and it shows that he isn’t all hardened with trauma that he is still himself at the end of the day. His possessiveness is top tier down to having his brother find out everything about her. LOVED HIM.
Esperr (FMC) is seemingly sweet and all butterflies and rainbows in the beginning and she keeps a secret almost throughout the entire book. And she isn’t who she says she is at all. She has a darkness to her and a sass that rivals Zyran’s personality and they have great banter. The spicy scenes are just that SPICY 🌶️. I did give this a 3/5 only because I feel that I have read darker and kinkier spicy scenes. Nothing wrong with that because these scenes were still great!!
Please read the trigger warnings this book might not be for you and that’s okay!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨Could Esperr and Zaryn be anymore perfect for each other? Could Zaryn be anymore perfect in general?
... the answer to both questions is of course NO!✨
The way Zaryn truly sees Esperr, the way takes care of her and loves her exactly the way way she needs is everything. This story is the essence of why I crave a stalker romance.
✨ "And then it hits me, in his weird fucked-up way, this is his answer. It's not words like he said on the couch, though those did matter. It's his hands and his attention and the way he's been quietly learning every single thing about me without making a big deal about it." ✨
Craved balances a VERY satisfying level of spice and yearning with a rather convenient snow storm😈 and enriching side characters. I am really looking forward to Rhys, Cyran and Slater's stories 🤞
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
He calls her "mio cuore" 🥹
She calls him "my love" 🩷
✨The Tropes:✨
🖤Hidden identity
❤️🔥Age gap
🔪Obsessive FMC/MMC
🖤Forced Proximity
❤️🔥Deep trauma bonding
🔪Touch her & die
🖤Stalking
Thanks to Ryan Mundy and Synner for the Advance copy ❤️🔥
... the answer to both questions is of course NO!✨
The way Zaryn truly sees Esperr, the way takes care of her and loves her exactly the way way she needs is everything. This story is the essence of why I crave a stalker romance.
✨ "And then it hits me, in his weird fucked-up way, this is his answer. It's not words like he said on the couch, though those did matter. It's his hands and his attention and the way he's been quietly learning every single thing about me without making a big deal about it." ✨
Craved balances a VERY satisfying level of spice and yearning with a rather convenient snow storm😈 and enriching side characters. I am really looking forward to Rhys, Cyran and Slater's stories 🤞
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
He calls her "mio cuore" 🥹
She calls him "my love" 🩷
✨The Tropes:✨
🖤Hidden identity
❤️🔥Age gap
🔪Obsessive FMC/MMC
🖤Forced Proximity
❤️🔥Deep trauma bonding
🔪Touch her & die
🖤Stalking
Thanks to Ryan Mundy and Synner for the Advance copy ❤️🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Smut: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Zade and Josh who?! Zyran has officially stolen the crown. He is a stalker-trope lover’s absolute wet dream: protective, an amazing cook, great in bed, and ready to kill for you in the most brutal ways imaginable but also stalk you for over a year but that's just because he loves you right?
This was another incredible slow burn, and when the spicy scenes finally arrived, they had me blushing and squealing. There wasn't a single dull moment in the plot. Everything flowed perfectly, and that massive plot twist at the end that had me screaming!
Esperr’s journey was so different from Sybil's, Tarnished's FMC, and she may not be the same type of badass, but watching her fight through her trauma and battles was just *chef's kiss*.
It looks like we might get Zyran's brother's, Rhys, story next, and I’m already obsessed. Serious question though: where do I sign up to get my own Zyran?
Smut: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Zade and Josh who?! Zyran has officially stolen the crown. He is a stalker-trope lover’s absolute wet dream: protective, an amazing cook, great in bed, and ready to kill for you in the most brutal ways imaginable but also stalk you for over a year but that's just because he loves you right?
This was another incredible slow burn, and when the spicy scenes finally arrived, they had me blushing and squealing. There wasn't a single dull moment in the plot. Everything flowed perfectly, and that massive plot twist at the end that had me screaming!
Esperr’s journey was so different from Sybil's, Tarnished's FMC, and she may not be the same type of badass, but watching her fight through her trauma and battles was just *chef's kiss*.
It looks like we might get Zyran's brother's, Rhys, story next, and I’m already obsessed. Serious question though: where do I sign up to get my own Zyran?
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC Reader Review✨
Thank you Ryan and Synner for selecting me to be apart of this arc team and introducing me to my new book husband🖤🖤🖤
This book has been everything I needed and more and had me hooked from the first page the and wrighting is freaking fantastic I didn’t want it to end! Zyran and Esperr are perfect for each other and I love the fact that that they are both Morrally gray and OBCESSED with each other as well as both having a little bit of trauma and secrets about their past and don’t get me started about the care and endearment as well as the pet name that I had to use Google Translate to understand it had me swooning ❤️ on top of he will do everything in his power to keep her safe and fed, I mean seriously Ryan Ms ma’am can you create a more perfect man?!? Esperr is no pushover herself she is independent and can hold her own which I love! The spice is top notch kinky (which is needed😜) and oh so steamy
My rating is
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️x♾️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Ryan and Synner for selecting me to be apart of this arc team and introducing me to my new book husband🖤🖤🖤
This book has been everything I needed and more and had me hooked from the first page the and wrighting is freaking fantastic I didn’t want it to end! Zyran and Esperr are perfect for each other and I love the fact that that they are both Morrally gray and OBCESSED with each other as well as both having a little bit of trauma and secrets about their past and don’t get me started about the care and endearment as well as the pet name that I had to use Google Translate to understand it had me swooning ❤️ on top of he will do everything in his power to keep her safe and fed, I mean seriously Ryan Ms ma’am can you create a more perfect man?!? Esperr is no pushover herself she is independent and can hold her own which I love! The spice is top notch kinky (which is needed😜) and oh so steamy
My rating is
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️x♾️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
This book had me hooked from the very first chapters, and I couldn't put it down.
Both the FMC and MMC are morally grey, and I absolutely ate that up. They're flawed, messy, and carrying so much trauma that neither Zyran nor Esperr knows how to deal with until their lives become intertwined. Watching their walls slowly come down was such an emotional journey.
The slow burn is painful in the best possible way, but trust me—it is 100% worth the wait. Every interaction builds the tension, and I loved that the relationship continued to develop right through to the very end.
One of my favourite things was how both characters could be incredibly vulnerable while still remaining fierce, strong, and unapologetically themselves.
If you love morally grey characters, emotional angst, traumatic pasts, and slow-burn romance that keeps you invested until the very last page, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
This book had me hooked from the very first chapters, and I couldn't put it down.
Both the FMC and MMC are morally grey, and I absolutely ate that up. They're flawed, messy, and carrying so much trauma that neither Zyran nor Esperr knows how to deal with until their lives become intertwined. Watching their walls slowly come down was such an emotional journey.
The slow burn is painful in the best possible way, but trust me—it is 100% worth the wait. Every interaction builds the tension, and I loved that the relationship continued to develop right through to the very end.
One of my favourite things was how both characters could be incredibly vulnerable while still remaining fierce, strong, and unapologetically themselves.
If you love morally grey characters, emotional angst, traumatic pasts, and slow-burn romance that keeps you invested until the very last page, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zyran is absolutely everything! He’s my favorite so far although I have a feeling Rhys will eventually take his spot but until then I’m going to continue swooning over our favorite stalker. Esperr is such a badass in such a different way than Sybil but I can see them being besties. The emotions in this book between two broken people over different things yet everything they feel and experience is so similar despite the differences however big or small they are. They mend the things that other people broke and the love the things that they cannot control due to their own minds being the enemies. I cannot wait to see what/whose book is next!
Side character mention: Oliver..he needs a book or something cause who beat him up? Why was he acting weird? What’s his story? I love his love for esperr!
Side character mention: Oliver..he needs a book or something cause who beat him up? Why was he acting weird? What’s his story? I love his love for esperr!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review for an ARC copy.
Woof. Thats all I have to say about Zyran is woof. I absolutely loved him in Tarnished. He was one of my favorite characters and added a nice touch of comedy to the book and I’m so glad he got his own book so soon. I don’t think I could’ve waited too long for his.
This books deals heavily with many mental health issues and the ways the MC’s tried to cope and I think Ryan did an amazing job with doing this delicately but also stressing what this can do to a person.
I do wish there was a little more spice because oowee they are a power couple. On the streets and in the sheets. The way they leaned on each other and were able to help each other heal without pushing themselves onto each other to make them heal faster. I love this series so far! I can’t wait for what else Ryan has.
Woof. Thats all I have to say about Zyran is woof. I absolutely loved him in Tarnished. He was one of my favorite characters and added a nice touch of comedy to the book and I’m so glad he got his own book so soon. I don’t think I could’ve waited too long for his.
This books deals heavily with many mental health issues and the ways the MC’s tried to cope and I think Ryan did an amazing job with doing this delicately but also stressing what this can do to a person.
I do wish there was a little more spice because oowee they are a power couple. On the streets and in the sheets. The way they leaned on each other and were able to help each other heal without pushing themselves onto each other to make them heal faster. I love this series so far! I can’t wait for what else Ryan has.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Let me start out by saying I loved this dark romance, trauma heavy tale. The chemistry between the Zaryn & Esper is complex, real, and off the charts. I loved the how the main characters felt like onions and Mundy was peeling them back layer by layer to see the true them. The trauma and the pain they both live through felt like it had it's on heartbeat, it was intricate and felt real to me. I was immediately hooked in the first chapter and read this in one sitting.
The only thing I didn't love is that the story ended very abruptly for me. Another chapter or two or even an epilogue after the conclusion would have made this a 5 star read. That being said if there another book in this world I would absolutely read it. Make sure to check the TW's before reading as there are a few that might effect some readers. Highly recommend.
The only thing I didn't love is that the story ended very abruptly for me. Another chapter or two or even an epilogue after the conclusion would have made this a 5 star read. That being said if there another book in this world I would absolutely read it. Make sure to check the TW's before reading as there are a few that might effect some readers. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ I received an advance reader copy from the author. All opinions are my own. ✨
I absolutely loved this story. Zyran. The man that you are. This story was devastating and beautiful. The trauma between these two and the way they heal each other was perfect. A girl on the run from a dark past and the man who is willing to fight her demons for her while having to stand up to his. I absolutely loved Esperr facing the fact that she no longer had to run and helping Zyran in accepting that the things that happened in the past weren't his fault. The spice in this book had me melting, I did not expect the mouth on this mouth nor the switch up with Zyran giving Esperr the control. This is releasing on July 31st, pick up this read on kindle! I can't wait to see what Ryan is releasing next!
I absolutely loved this story. Zyran. The man that you are. This story was devastating and beautiful. The trauma between these two and the way they heal each other was perfect. A girl on the run from a dark past and the man who is willing to fight her demons for her while having to stand up to his. I absolutely loved Esperr facing the fact that she no longer had to run and helping Zyran in accepting that the things that happened in the past weren't his fault. The spice in this book had me melting, I did not expect the mouth on this mouth nor the switch up with Zyran giving Esperr the control. This is releasing on July 31st, pick up this read on kindle! I can't wait to see what Ryan is releasing next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a review of an advanced copy.
This is a dark romance and thriller which covers some very dark themes. Esperr and Zyran are two damaged people and this book covers some deep and complex issues. You have this steady, slow burn romance between Esperr and Zyran aided by a bit of forced proximity that sees them start to trust each other and break down a few walls. All the way through you have this threat of possible danger lingering before Esperr and Zyran can find their happy ending.
I would definitely recommend, but with a warning to check the content warnings as it is does contain some violence and some mental health reps.
Thank you to Ryan Mundy for the chance to read this review copy. I look forward to the next book.
This is a dark romance and thriller which covers some very dark themes. Esperr and Zyran are two damaged people and this book covers some deep and complex issues. You have this steady, slow burn romance between Esperr and Zyran aided by a bit of forced proximity that sees them start to trust each other and break down a few walls. All the way through you have this threat of possible danger lingering before Esperr and Zyran can find their happy ending.
I would definitely recommend, but with a warning to check the content warnings as it is does contain some violence and some mental health reps.
Thank you to Ryan Mundy for the chance to read this review copy. I look forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this! It's Zyran & Esperr's story & it was an awesome one! He starts coming to the coffee shop she works at & is already obsessed with her. They absolutely have chemistry; he goes every day & finally he tells her he'll be back the next day; but he has many secrets & something happens; he doesn't see her again for a while. But she has secrets of her own & they put everyone around her in danger. They re-connect & he learns a lot about her & how she grew up. I loved getting to know more about him & I loved the chemistry between them. Unfortunately, the past has a way of catching up with you when you least expect it. I really loved the found family (for her) & the spice was fantastic! Recommend this book & author!
July 31, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader Copy Recieved by Author
A high octane, no holds barred plunge into the abyss of dark romance. Forget your gentle strolls; this book is a full throttle descent into obsession, trauma, and characters so morally gray they make a charcoal sketch look vibrant. Zyran's brand of 'protection' might just be your new favorite flavor, and Esperr's resilience is the kind that makes you root for her even when she's making questionable life choices. You'll find yourself simultaneously horrified and utterly captivated, questioning everything you thought you knew about love, safety, and whether 'happily ever after' comes with a side of therapy. Warning: May cause sleepless nights and a sudden urge to re-evaluate your own life choices.
A high octane, no holds barred plunge into the abyss of dark romance. Forget your gentle strolls; this book is a full throttle descent into obsession, trauma, and characters so morally gray they make a charcoal sketch look vibrant. Zyran's brand of 'protection' might just be your new favorite flavor, and Esperr's resilience is the kind that makes you root for her even when she's making questionable life choices. You'll find yourself simultaneously horrified and utterly captivated, questioning everything you thought you knew about love, safety, and whether 'happily ever after' comes with a side of therapy. Warning: May cause sleepless nights and a sudden urge to re-evaluate your own life choices.
July 31, 2026
Esperr is an amazing character, I adored everything about her from the start.
No pity only admiration, 3 years running is a long time
I really loved seeing the complex dynamics between zyran and his brothers as well as zyran fighting against himself and his struggle.
Was not expecting several scenes in this. The snow
And chapter 35 are opposite ends of the scale of unexpectedness but unsurprisingly they just fit in this chaotic story. Start to finish I loved the humor
The gym scene with zyran and esperr made me absolutely feral and I love the found family vibes sybil, basically taking one look as esperr and going yup you're ours and then practically baring her teeth at the lads to be nice or else 😂
Rys and esperrs relationship is fantastic.
Surprising and overall wonderful.
No pity only admiration, 3 years running is a long time
I really loved seeing the complex dynamics between zyran and his brothers as well as zyran fighting against himself and his struggle.
Was not expecting several scenes in this. The snow
And chapter 35 are opposite ends of the scale of unexpectedness but unsurprisingly they just fit in this chaotic story. Start to finish I loved the humor
The gym scene with zyran and esperr made me absolutely feral and I love the found family vibes sybil, basically taking one look as esperr and going yup you're ours and then practically baring her teeth at the lads to be nice or else 😂
Rys and esperrs relationship is fantastic.
Surprising and overall wonderful.
August 3, 2026
2.75 stars.
There were moments that I was into it, and then moments I wasn’t, or I cringed.
I’m not sure if this was intentional, but for a dark romance, there were times where it didn’t feel very dark. Which could be good, or not, depending on the person! Maybe it was intentional to lull us into a false sense of security, and then bam! The dark is back.
As I did receive a copy before release date, maybe things have changed, but I did find there were some inconsistencies with the plot, which was confusing at times. Or some things drawn out when they really didn’t need to be, or overly condensed when it could have been so much more.
I did like the main characters, although the FMC backstory was a bit…weird? Mostly with her parents.
Most of the spicy scenes were good!
There were moments that I was into it, and then moments I wasn’t, or I cringed.
I’m not sure if this was intentional, but for a dark romance, there were times where it didn’t feel very dark. Which could be good, or not, depending on the person! Maybe it was intentional to lull us into a false sense of security, and then bam! The dark is back.
As I did receive a copy before release date, maybe things have changed, but I did find there were some inconsistencies with the plot, which was confusing at times. Or some things drawn out when they really didn’t need to be, or overly condensed when it could have been so much more.
I did like the main characters, although the FMC backstory was a bit…weird? Mostly with her parents.
Most of the spicy scenes were good!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews