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Crimson Codex by Ava Marie Salinger
The Mage and His Brute #3
MM Fantasy Romance
Cover Designer: 17 Studio Book Design
January 20, 2026
Some secrets are buried for a reason. But what happens when someone is willing to kill to unearth them?
Duke Evander Ravenwood is barely back on his feet after the catastrophe at the Royal Institute when he is dragged before Parliament to answer for the chaos that followed. But political scheming is the least of his concerns. The elusive mastermind he and Viggo Stonewall have hunted for months continues to tighten his grip across Europeβand their new mission to track down the legendary Crimson Codex is about to thrust them straight into his path.
From the gilded salons of Paris to the shadowed archives of Prague, from the opera houses of Vienna to the royal courts of Brussels, Evander, Viggo, and their loyal team must navigate a deadly web of conspiracy, royal intrigue, and dark mages who will stop at nothing to claim the Codexβs power.
With shadows closing in and allies emerging from the most unexpected places, Evander and Viggo will have to risk everything to stop a conspiracy that could plunge Europe into a new age of darkness.
A sweeping tale of magic, mystery, and forbidden passion, Crimson Codex continues The Mage and His Brute with heart-pounding adventure and a romance forged in fire. Perfect for fans of historical fantasy and LGBTQ+ romance.
By or Borrow today: https://getbook.at/CrimsonCodex
Crimson Codex by Ava Marie Salinger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
**Part of my review from book one
As a Special Investigator for the Arcane Division of the Metropolitan Police, Duke Evander Ravenwood has seen his share of unspeakable oddities. Evander is an incredibly talented Archmage, capable of controlling the elements, using them to solve crimes. Viggo, (the Ironfist Brute) has incredible strength and formidable intelligence. People find him fascinating, the equivalent of a rockstar in Victorian England.**
This time the Duke and his motley crew are searching for the Crimson Codex (βA repository of forbidden knowledgeβ), the oldest of magical texts. Their most dangerous quest yet. Dark forces are gathering, putting the fate of the whole world as they know it in question. The magical aspect was intensified, truly showing the depth of the dark magic the Duke and his allies are facing.
The descriptions of the Victorian era are vivid. From the oppressing slums to the glittering ballrooms. All brought to life in expressive detail.
I really like the supporting characters. Even the βspyβ. They bring a sense of levity to the book.
As for the Duke and his Bruteβ¦spicy doesnβt really even begin to describe their relationship. It seemed in this book that they really settled into what they have become to mean to each other.
This is a series that really needs to be read in order to get the full understanding and enjoyment out of it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
About the Author:
Ava Marie Salinger is the romance pen name of an Amazon bestselling author with a passion for writing addictive tales. Known for her action-packed and thrilling urban fantasy novels, she has expanded her repertoire with the introduction of the M/M urban fantasy romance series Fallen Messengers.
Additionally, she has penned the scorching hot contemporary M/M romance series Nights and Twilight Falls as A.M. Salinger.
When not immersed in her writing, Ava can be found curating inspiring music playlists, indulging in her love for nature, marveling at the latest gadgets, and savoring Chinese cuisine.
Connect with Ava: https://linktr.ee/avamariesalingerauthor
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