Kortlek

by Kat King

The deadliest game of all.

I should've known sneaking in as the prey, instead of the hunter, was going to become my downfall.

Despite the torture, the murders and bloodshed, the miscalculation led me to Cove Steele-the very man who'd bring me to my knees.

An illegal fighter, known for his very few words and even nastier temper. He turned my world inside out, slipped into my heart and threatened to make it permanent.

And he is my brother's best friend.

Now that the devil from my past has come to claim me again, Cove vows to protect me. Around him, my mind is at ease.

At least that's what I thought, until I'm forced to face my greatest fears.

Through our trials and tribulations, I can see that cove has changed me in ways I never imagined possible. He gave me the strength I lacked, and now it's the two of us against the world.

Cove Steele is my redemption and I can only hope I won't be his destruction.

Genres: Dark Romance

Paperback

First published March 22, 2025

Reviews

[becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

***SPOILERS AHEAD***

"With his arms wrapped around me, he picks me up in bridal style and walks out of the room. The embrace makes me feel safe, and now with Wyatt gone, I can start living for myself.
For Cove.
For our future.
Because that man is the only thing I need in my life. He’s the best thing that has ever happened to me, my strongest vice, my maddest obsession, and my biggest weakness.
And he’s all mine.
Until death do us part."

kat king you actual fucking KING, QUEEN - EVERYTHING - you're everything okay this book was a MASTERPIECE ( all of kat's books are btw )

🤍 aria, my sweet, murderous, crazy girl - there's been no one like you in my roster yet but you're so taking top even if there were. she was so perfect, the perfect blend between crazy and relatable. she showed the struggles even girls/people who come from picture perfect families can have in their lives when they're older and slowly, slowly gained her strength back after that piece of shit wyatt - NEVER HAVE I EVER CHEERED FOR SOMEONE'S D3ATH THAT LOUD WOOP. i loved aria in every scene there was and as an older sister sometimes i wanted to smack her right up that cute head of hers. ( bunny 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 )

🩶 COVE AJAKAKAKKAKAKAAUAUAUUAJAKAKS oh lord my sizs kink was ACTIVATED when this man was around because sweet stars his everything was BIG. his back, his shoulders, his hands, his dick - everything. big boy indeed. hearing what he went through and seeing him learn to communicate with aria during their tela even if it was just with his eyes was so 🥹🥹🥹 i loved him so much and i'd honestly love a cove of my own okay cause MEOOWWW

🖤 ARLO AND BLAIR. ARLO AND BLAIR. ARLO AND BLAIR. i repeat. ARLO. AND. BLAIR. okay so hi MY people coming home soon thank you kat your books are amazing never stop writing - i'm so excited for them you have no idea.

❤️‍🩹 JASONROSE???????? need them btw like asap injected into my veins. SERIAL KILLER CLOWN AND HIS FEISTY, HOTHEADED GF??? yes please sign me tf up never been more open for business for anyone than i am for jason AND ROSE OKAY cause if they need a third 🫦🫦🫦🫦

ANYWAYS I LOVED THIS AND Y'ALL SHOULD READ IT AND LOVE IT TOO

[Kaitlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ★

Cove Steele is my redemption. If a spot in hell is reserved for me, I know it’s right next to his.

After reading Sardonic Burn, I knew Kat King would be one of my favourite authors, and reading Kortlek absolutely sealed that deal! It was action packed, steamy and full of the best characters I've read in a long time.

I love a strong FMC and Aria hit the ground running from the very start. She has been through absolute pain and is determined to not let that define her.

We also have Cove, who was the absolute top tier MMC, full of protectiveness and love for Aria, and the lengths he would go to for her was *chefs kiss*.

There was immense chemistry between the MCs as well as well developed characteristics and it had me feeling like I knew them so well. I was hooked the entire read, and could not put the book down.

Overall, this was another amazing read from Kat King and I cannot stop thinking about it!

What To Expect:
⨳ Dark MF Romance
⨳ Best Friends Brother
⨳ She Fell First, He Fell Harder
⨳ Bikers
⨳ Strong FMC
⨳ Protective MMC

I don't want anyone fighting my battles. I want someone supporting me while I fight them myself.

❤︎ ARC provided in exchange for an honest review ❤︎

[Ruchita · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 🌟

After reading "Sardonic Burn", I was so ready to dive into Noelle and Hudson's kid's story—and oh my god, Kat did NOT disappoint! 😩🤌
I absolutely loved this book. 💗The little breadcrumbs of Hudson and Noelle sprinkled throughout fed my addiction in the best way.🥹

Aria was everything! I adored her character💗, watching her grow out of her shell and become this strong, fierce woman was such an amazing journey💗. Cove and her family being there for her every step of the way was heartwarming. The way she proved to everyone that she wasn’t weak and didn’t need saving? Pure gold. And her crazy, psychotic side? Hot as hell! I loved her fiery temper and how she showed Cove just how possessive she could be. The chemistry between her and Cove? Absolutely fabulous!🥹💗

Now, Cove—oh, Cove. The broody, hot brother’s best friend stole my heart. His protective nature toward Aria was just too cute. The way he tried to resist her and still fell HARD for her? Adorable. Seriously, he’s the best.

And let’s not forget Hudson and Arlo, the protective father and brother duo. Oh my god, their reactions to Aria and Cove’s relationship were hilarious. 😭

Loved this book to bits💗.

[Sam B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will absolutely devour anything written by Kat. Family full of badass assassins, check.
Game played to eliminate horrible criminals, check.
Spicy love story, check.
This book takes place in the Sardonic Burn universe following the second generation. Can still be read as a standalone.
Aria is the baby of the family, who everyone looks out for and protects. Especially Cove, the brother’s best friend who has always had a hard time expressing emotions.
After a toxic and abusive relationship with her ex left her broken, the protectiveness of the family becomes even stronger. She just wants to prove herself capable to everyone. So what does she do? She joins Kortlek of course.
The steam and utter devotion between Aria and Cove hits hard. You can feel the tension and excitement right through the pages. The determination and utter thrill Aria expresses during the games was so captivating to read, especially when she gets her revenge for the past.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This couple is electric. The dynamic and lifestyle that Aria's family portrays is a little different than a Mafia setup. Devoted, and perhaps a bit insane, but no one will question the loyalty that they have for one another.

Aria has some past demons that decide to intrude on her life now. She wants to be independent, but everyone around her keeps trying to protect her. She makes some pretty bold moves to show her loved ones that she is capable, but instead gets the attention of the man she has been obsessed with for the last 2 years.

Cove is a tough guy, with a rough past. He has his own demons as well, but the biggest demon is his attraction to his best friends little sister. When he sees the intensity of her actions, he can't help but fall for her even more, and break his vow to himself. I love that he is a Doberman type boyfriend. Gruff for everyone except her and will protect her at all costs.

In order to figure out what exactly Kortlek is, you'll just have to read it.

[Bookishlyvenus ⋆˚࿔ · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK.

From the moment I met Aria I fell in love with her. I know we (mostly) always swoon over the MMC’s but I love when the FMC absolutely steals the show!

Aria is such a badass. If you’ve read Sardonic Burn you’ll see a lot of both her parents in her personality and I love it. It’s like she got all the unhinged qualities from her parents! Her story was so touching and I loved seeing her character grow.

The chemistry between her and Cove was 🔥 Just instant chemistry! and THE MOUTH ON THAT MAN 🥵 Cove had me all hot and bothered!!!

I enjoyed this so much because it had the perfect mix of romance and plot! A must read for sure.

Kortlek is a standalone but if you’d like to read about Aria’s (fmc) parents first then I’d suggest starting with Sardonic Burn 😉

Read if you like:
❤️‍🔥 brothers bff
❤️‍🔥 assassin fmc
❤️‍🔥 fighter mmc
❤️‍🔥 both bikers
❤️‍🔥 its always been you
❤️‍🔥 snarky fmc

[littlesmuttyone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kat King does it again I absolutely obsessed with aria,cove,arlo,Blair even their folks .the way her mother treats her and loves her just as much as her father and brother does.

Wyatt is a coward and so much more. That's all I gotta say.

Arlo is freaking amazing brother, the kind you can be playful with,argue with, and love the bond they share, especially after what she went through.

Cove my man, oh my goodness, I love him so much. I love how he calls her bunny
His little bunny

[Amisha Kumari · Rating 5 out of 5]

COVE COVE COVE my baby he is best 😭😭😭😭 the way he loves aria ahhhhh and aria my baby she is so fucking perfect I loved their story so much it feels so personal and comforting and that revenge ahhhhh. also the spice is so good like so good. overall very nice read Kat king always slay with their men. can't wait for arlo's book the little crumbs how he loves Blair is so good and Hudson and Noelle my babies🥹🫶.

[Marie Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow just amazing honestly
Our fmc is the daughter of assassin.. her brother is one as well but he goes about it differently the real gasp moment is her being in love with her brothers best friend Cove and o is he every so quiet and difficult.. but when Aria’s past causes issues nothing is off limits

[Melody Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m going to give this 3.5 🌟 HUGE thank you to Kat King for selecting me to be a part of the ARC readers—this is my first one, and I felt so special to get early access to Aria + Cove’s story.

I loved Sardonic Burn, so I was really looking forward to the second generation. I think what appreciate most about Kat’s writing is how she writes about nuclear and chosen family bonds. Every character in the De Santis circle, related or not, are incredibly loyal, badass, and likable (and all have their quirks).

Thoughts on the plot: LOVE that, right away, we’re introduced to the concept of Kortlek 🃏 and how the story was centered around it in multiple ways (for how this chosen family bonds, how it was a safe word for Aria and Cove, and how it was used for Aria’s revenge arc in the very end). I think it was very full circle, and done well in that regard. The plot with Aria’s trauma with her ex, Wyatt, I feel like we should’ve gotten some flashbacks (although that would’ve been hard to write as an author and read as a reader, so I understand why that wasn’t done). Also wanted a little bit more closure (and a Cove POV) in the epilogue—I know it was implied that they were going to get married, so I wanted to see the proposal and see if the ring situation was similar the Noelle’s request from Hudson! I’m a context girlie, and want as much as possible, so that, along with some wishes for more character development and slower pacing, were what made my rankings drop.

NOW…

Aria De Santis is a perfect combination of her parents. She’s badass, sarcastic, and stubborn. Most importantly, she had great character development. She lets everyone know off the bat that she won’t take any shit from people, but the trauma she developed from her abusive relationship brought on some hindrance in her self-worth to the fullest extent. Watching her get her revenge arc (AND getting all giggly and lust drunk during gory scenes) was incredible.

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐’𝘮 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘥 𝘰𝘧, 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘊𝘰𝘷𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘳𝘭𝘰’𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢 𝘬𝘪���𝘥 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩; 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐’𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶.“

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘦 (Wyatt). 𝘐𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦.”

Sweet bb Cove reminded me of Creighton from the Legacy of Gods series, therefore I immediately fell in love with him. I feel like I needed more character development, inner monologues, and past context (especially when he was in the foster care system with Eva)—but other than that, the man can FIGHT and, although isn’t very forward in vocalizing his emotions, has a huge heart. I love the push and pull in the beginning with Aria, there was some really good banter, he had the same lust for blood that she dies, and he has a filthy mouth—my favorite (and the multiple exhibitionism scenes?? SHEESH 🥵).

“𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺, 𝘣𝘶𝘯𝘯𝘺. 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥. 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥?“

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘴𝘰 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘯𝘯𝘺. 𝘚𝘰 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦. 𝘚𝘰 𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦.“

“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦, 𝘈𝘳𝘪𝘢. 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶.“

PS: we never got to know what his tattoo is / what it means?? SAD

Arlo + Aria’s relationship, as brother and sister, was so special to witness, and I’m glad it was somewhat of a constant focal point as the plot progressed. It always comes back to love and loyalty, through thick and thin.

“𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘈𝘳𝘪𝘢? 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘧, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘶𝘮𝘣 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭. 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.“ *cries*

Overall—I did want to rate this higher, but wanted to give my honest thoughts. I thought the pacing was slightly off, and we could’ve used more character development. BUT I do still highly recommend reading their story, especially if you read and loved Sardonic Burn! Getting some moments with Noelle and Hudson made my heart warm.

Lastly, Arlo and Blair?? Rose and James?? OBSESSED with both couples, and I can’t wait for Arlo’s book. I just know I’ll be obsessed with him. I hope we get a book for Rose, too, because the dynamic we got a sneak peek of with her felon of a man, James?? Holy hell 🫠🔥🤡

[Kim Cass · Rating 5 out of 5]

What’s that saying? The family that kills together, stays together?

Welcome to Kortlek, the first book in the De Santis second-generation from Kat King’s Sardonic Burn universe.

But what exactly is Kortlek? The rules of the game are simple. Everyone draws a card. Each card holds a number. Add them up, and that is how many bad people the De Santis family will take down during the main event. The targets get one weapon to defend themselves and it is a blood-soaked family tradition.

At the heart of it all is Aria, the youngest De Santis sibling who has been secretly pining for her brother’s best friend, Cove, for years. But ever since she confessed her feelings, he has been keeping his distance, and the space between them has only grown. She tries to move on but what Aria does not factor in is her heart and her undeniable love for Cove.

“Cove Steele is my redemption. If a spot in hell is reserved for me, I know it’s right next to his.”

Now listen to me. You need to drop everything, lock your door, make some hot chocolate, and start this book. I never thought I would get to see Noelle and Hudson post-HEA, so finding out that Kortlek follows their kids, Aria and Arlo, was unexpected and thrilling to say the least. I may or may not have fist pumped, I may or may not have cheered. Don’t @ me.

Aria is a powerhouse FMC. Hurt by her past relationship, she is on the road to healing. Truly her mother’s daughter, she is unhinged when she needs to be and soft in the rare, precious moments. What I loved most about her was her resilience and how fiercely she stood up for herself, even when it meant standing up to Cove. She knew her worth and made sure everyone else did too, which is exactly what you would expect from Hudson and Noelle’s daughter. But her backstory shattered me. I felt so protective of her and Arlo because of how much I loved their parents so reading about Aria’s struggles and past trauma broke me completely.

And then there is Cove, our silent but loyal hero. Tough on the outside, soft for his woman, a consent king through and through. His need to protect and heal Aria? Chef’s kiss. He was so perfect for Aria and once he decided to follow his heart and put himself on the line for the woman he loves, he becomes the ultimate ride or die.

“She went from being the object of my deepest, darkest, and most twisted desires to being the love of my life.
My perfect little bunny.”

Honestly, this book was an intense ride. It was sexy, dangerous, and high stakes throughout. In a world of murder card games, secret underground fights, and forbidden love, Kortlek delivers everything I wanted and more.

I have to mention the sisterhood between Aria and Blair because it was so refreshing. Their love for each other felt real, like true sisters, and Aria’s admiration for Blair was so genuine, you could really see it with her words.

And the allusions to Blair’s own story make me certain that her and Arlo’s book is going to destroy me. I need it NOW. That dynamic, power couple, sweet to each other, subtle touches and caresses, has me hooked before their story even begins. Oh yeah and can we take a moment to talk about Rose and James? A murdering clown? The moment James came to the rescue, I was like, sign me up daddy.

There is something magnetic about the way Kat King writes. I felt it in Sardonic Burn and I felt it again in Kortlek. She crafts these intricate, all-encompassing worlds with just a few words. Her writing is vivid, gripping, and impossible to put down. I am so ready for Blair and Arlo’s book. I am dying for Rose and James. And most of all, I am just so happy to see Hudson and Noelle, our OG badasses, become a family unit with their loved ones.

[Amara Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kortlek is a dark romance book that perfectly blends bloodlust, heartbreak & rage.

The book starts with a deadly game; One Aria sneaks into. It’s violent, bloody, and everything quickly spirals out of control. But what really hooks you in is Aria’s fight to survive. This story isn’t just about physical pain—it’s about emotional wreckage, and slowly taking back power.

Aria. ❤️‍🔥🔥
She’s not your typical heroine. She’s a badass, a rebel, stubborn, often reckless, and still, deeply vulnerable. Watching her fight her way back from trauma, fueled not just by survival but a craving for control and vengeance, is utterly captivating.

Aria’s story is wild, painful, and also empowering. She’s been through hell, but watching her fight back, even when everything’s stacked against her, was one of my favorite things to read. She’s messy, unhinged, but so strong.

She is honestly one of the most unhinged, and badass girls I’ve read. She’s not scared of the blood or the violence—in fact she loves it. She feels powerful in it. She walks into a deadly game, knowing what it is, and she still wants it. Not to survive—but because she craves that chaos. Her personality is wild but somehow still relatable. Like yeah, she’s insane, but also? I get her.

Then there’s Cove. Her brother’s best friend. The silent, brutal fighter who seems built more for war than love. But oh, does he love. And when he does, it’s all-consuming. ❤️‍🔥😩😩

He barely speaks, but when it comes to Aria, he’s everything. He doesn’t try to fix her. He stands with her, protects her, and honestly, worships her in the quietest ways. The tension between them was insane from the start, and once things finally snapped into place? Yeah… I was gone.

I also loved how Cove slowly opened up, like seeing him learn how to show love, piece by piece, was really beautiful. And Aria? She gave him a reason to feel again. They both saved each other in different ways, and it was so satisfying to see them fight for one another.

His vulnerability is so raw, he carries so much guilt, so much self-blame, and he really doesn’t think he’s capable of being loved. You can see how broken he is too, how unsure he feels, and how badly he wants to protect Aria even if he doesn’t think he deserves her.

What made me love him even more was how careful he was with her. Not just physically but also emotionally. He doesn’t rush her. He listens, even when he doesn’t know how to say the right things. And slowly, you see him open up. Not just as her protector, but as a man learning how to feel again. And god it hurts, but it’s beautiful too.

Their relationship is so raw. They fight, they push each other’s buttons, they fall apart—but they always find their way back. It’s rough and messy and full of emotion, but it works because they both feel like they don’t belong anywhere else but with each other. Cove sees Aria’s worst parts and still stays. And Aria, for the first time, starts to believe she’s worth that kind of love. They both have their demons, but somehow, when they’re together, it’s quieter. Like for the first time, they can breathe. He gives her stability. She gives him a reason to believe in something again.

Also… the little side hints at other characters? I’m obsessed. I need more. 😩🔥🔥


If you’re into dark romance with an assassin FMC, brother’s best friend, both are bikers 😮‍💨🖤 Kortlek is 100% worth it.

[Amara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aria is an absolute force of nature, and I am obsessed. Her bloodlust calls to something deep in me—and I was here for every second of it. Every violent scene had me thriving. Watching her take matters into her own hands was so damn satisfying. Assassin FMCs? Absolute catnip for me.

Aria’s craziness? Yeah, same as mine. Her need for violence was hot, and being in her POV was an absolute thrill. This book is DARK, and I cannot stress this enough—read the trigger warnings first. You have been warned.

Now, let’s talk spice. The smut? Fire. The chemistry between Aria and Cove crackled with intensity. Every interaction between them felt electric, and I ate up every second of it.

And Cove? That giant, grumpy softie. He might be all growls and glares, but when it comes to Aria, he turns into something tender. The way he wants to protect and care for her? Adorable. What really made me love him, though, was his vulnerability. His fear of losing her, his self-doubt about whether he can protect her—it all made him feel so real. He wasn’t just a ruthless killer; he was a man in love, and that hit hard.

Another thing I really enjoyed? The little tidbits about James and Rosie sprinkled throughout the book. I need to know if there’s a book for them (or if there will be one in the future), because their dynamic has me curious.

The only thing that felt a little off was the ending—it was a bit chaotic in parts. But honestly? Nothing too major, and the epilogue did a great job of tying everything together.

If you love dark romance with a truly unhinged FMC and a grumpy-soft protector MMC, this book will consume you. I devoured it, and I have zero regrets.

[Booksta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. God. Kortlek by Kat King just grabbed me by the throat, threw me on the back of a roaring motorcycle, and took me on the ride of my damn life. And guess what? I liked it. No—I LOVED it.

Let’s talk about our leading lady. Assassin FMC? Say less. She’s got knives, skills, and an attitude that could make grown men cry. And then there’s our fighter MMC—big, strong, dangerous, and ugh, the type of man you just KNOW smells like leather, sweat, and a bad idea. The tension between them? Criminal. Illegal. Someone call the authorities because I was not prepared for the way these two set the page on fire.

And speaking of fire… let’s talk about the tropes. We’ve got:
✔️ Brother’s best friend (forbidden fruit, anyone?)
✔️ She fell first, he fell harder (my absolute weakness)
✔️ Both bikers (the leather… the danger… THE EVERYTHING)
✔️ Deadly game (high stakes, high tension, high-key obsessed)
✔️ Primal play, blood play, knife play (I don’t know if I should be scared or turned on… turns out, it’s both)

It’s dark. It’s sexy. It’s the kind of book that has you biting your lip in public, blushing at your Kindle, and fanning yourself because WHO GAVE KAT KING PERMISSION?!

The chemistry? Explosive. The action? Pulse-pounding. The spice? Chef’s kiss perfection. And that ending? Let’s just say I’m sending Kat King my therapy bill.

If you love a dangerous, addictive romance that keeps your heart racing for all the right (and wrong) reasons, Kortlek is your next obsession. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need a cigarette (even tho I don't smoke), a cold shower, and a support group.

[Stacey L Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to Kortlek, the first book in the De Santis second-generation from Kat King’s Sardonic Burn universe.

But what exactly is Kortlek? The rules of the game are simple. Everyone draws a card. Each card holds a number. Add them up, and that is how many bad people the De Santis family will take down during the main event. The targets get one weapon to defend themselves and it is a blood-soaked family tradition.

Aria has some past demons that decide to intrude on her life now. She wants to be independent, but everyone around her keeps trying to protect her. She makes some pretty bold moves to show her loved ones that she is capable, but instead gets the attention of the man she has been obsessed with for the last 2 years.

Cove is a broody, tough guy, with a rough past. He has his own demons as well, but the biggest demon is his attraction to his best friends little sister. The way he tried to resist her and still fell HARD for her.

There was immense chemistry between the MCs as well as well developed characteristics and it had me feeling like I knew them so well. Honestly, this book was an intense ride. It was sexy, dangerous, and high stakes throughout. In a world of murder card games, secret underground fights, and forbidden love, Kortlek delivers everything I wanted and more.

[Britt (bookishmombritt) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not think Kat could top Sardonic Burn for me, but here we are. Kortlek is a game where bad people get hunted for their sins and Aria wants to join in so badly and when she does holy coy this girl was unhinged, and I loved it.

Aria is just like Noelle but a little more unhinged and a total badass. Her behavior in the games especially made her parents look tame. She had a rough past due to an abusive relationship, and she really went through it, but she came out the other side even stronger and started taking no crap from anyone. When she set her mind to something, she didn't let anyone stop her. I love the girl relationships and that their all biker girls.

Cove, OMG this man and his filthy mouth 🥵🥵. He is a cold man who shows no emotions and doesn't talk much except when it comes to Aria. With her, he is soft, caring and loves her like crazy. I love that even though he is possessive and obsessive, he doesn't prevent Aria from fighting her own battles and supports her decisions even if he doesn't always agree with them.

This book was freaking spicy holy cow. The spice was spicing. The dirty talk and the bloodlust that turned them on was so hot. 4 🌶 for sure.

I am so excited for Arlo and Blair next, though I am a little sad Aria and Cove wont be together in their books since they are being released out of order, but the little clues we got about their story have me so intrigued. I really hope that Rose & Jaime end up also getting a story because they sound unhinged.

[Jojobean_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I don't want anyone fighting my battles. I want someone supporting me while I fight them myself."

Domestic abuse is no joke. The long lasting impacts it has on a person, often showing themselves in the most unexpected ways.
Our FMC is surrounded by people who would die for her without question. Who would kill for her, who have killed for her. Of course they have, she belongs to a family of trained assassin's.
Her brother and his best friend love it so much that they develop a game where they round up the worst of the worst and hunt them for sport. The whole family gets involved- all except our FMC because she's not allowed. She's the baby, that they failed to protect once. They won't let that happen again but she has other ideas!

She won't be a victim again. She won't let people fight her battles for her and she will prove to them that she is strong enough to deal with everything without their help.

This story was action packed from the start and the traumas written in to the storyline was brilliantly done.
I won't even start with the MMC all I'll say is that the smut is sublime and you need to read it for yourself!

[V's Rockin' Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙮?”

Cove Steele…the depraved things this man says 👀🥵 I don’t think I’ve ever highlighted a book as much as I have with Kortlek. He has a breeding kink, takes aftercare seriously, and would shamelessly burn the world down for his little bunny, Aria 😮‍💨 Sign. Me. Up!

𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙆𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙚𝙠 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩. 𝙍𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮’𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙙. 𝙐𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙣𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙝 𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝.

I devoured this one! The game of Kortlek is a thrilling concept - pick your cards, reveal your numbers, and add them up to determine how much prey you have. Watching the hunt in action? WILD (for several reasons - IYKYK 😉). When it comes to stabby romances, this one absolutely delivers (they’re all assassins) 🔪 The characters were super likeable, including the side ones. I can’t wait to read about Aria’s parents and I’m dying for Arlo and Blair’s story.

If you love steamy dark romance that features pet names, hand necklaces, blood play, a FMC haunted by her past, and brother’s best friend, make sure Kortlek is on your TBR!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn it.

I loved Kortlek and I'm super excited for Arlo and Blair (😩).

The way Aria is her hero but Cove still see(S her as someone for him to protect but care about in lines of this man being a loyal friend but BOYFRIEND ugh he is just like HUDSON (🥹) as I kept reading I liked how as both her and him describe and talk about how the other makes them feel and don't get ME started on how he made her feel comfortable during sexy time ( I need) and so far I love there book more than sardonic burn. (still awesome tho)!
Okay I’m 70% in and shoot me bc Noooo Because I love how Aria left for answers because she wasn’t her any because why and now cove’s pissed but it’s valid thought but hilarious because last chapter he was loving her up. The build up pace of understanding Kortlek and Aria and Arlo, and Cove.
The Book has great representation which in my opinion in mental health or abuse relationships, and how Aria herself roots for herself and I wish more that Aria accepted the help but eventually she did.

Spice- 10/♾️(check ya trigger warnings).

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed and twisted
These two words won't leave my head when I ask myself to describe this book and the MCs relationship

It was everything I was expecting going into it and so much more
I am now obsessed with Kat king and will definitely be reading more of her work
I wasnt sure if dark romance was my thing but heck who am I kidding I guess we are all a little twisted

I loved Cove and Aria's story, their strong connection was undeniable, intense and Kat can we please know what his tattoo says, I think there has to be a thousand theories floating around by now but it has to do with his nickname for her, Little Bunny, right??? Is it revealed in the next book or was it in this book and I just missed it??? Girl I need to know

On another note...
It always amazes me how words can hit differently for people even out of context. I was struck by these words "I no longer crave closure" it was such a simple sentence and in the middle of a big scene but something clicked in me I didn't know needed clicking however I am grateful for the moment and the realization that came with it

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐
❗𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐀𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐓𝐖𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐓❗
Wow... just wow. I am speechless at how amazingly amazing this book fucking was. finished it in one fucking sitting and i need MORE. i forgot how addictive and how good Kat's books and writing were and now its tike for me to read the other books I've missed cause oh my WOW

First things first, I NEED TO KNOW WHAT COVEN'S TATOO IS AND MEANS CAUSE ITS RELATED TO ARIA I KNOW IT. Everything about this book was perfection, i loved Kortlek, loved how unhinged everyone were, and just i cant even find words anymore other than Kat King, Thank you for choosing to write.

Coven and Aria's relationship is so AHHHHHH i love it i need Arlo's book rn. Aria is so fucking unhinged and awkward at times is so funny and i love her so much for that. Also Rose, best bestie ever thats also fucking unhinged. I CRIED reading this yet again and i enjoyed every single bit of it. need more need more need more.

Received an Advance Copy for an honest review 🫶

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kortlek was not what I was expecting, it was so better!
It felt like if the Purge and a slasher flick had a mess of kids with trained assassins, who all had regular lives 90% of the time.

'I lost my soul the moment I took a life for the first time. I've been feeding the demons inside me, giving them what they wanted so desperately - blood.'

This book spoke to me in ways I haven't thought about for decades. I relieved some past trauma reading this book, but Aria was able to live out the result I had always wanted to play out in my own circumstance. It was beautiful, I love a bloody happy ending!

The romance between Aria and Cove is steamy and I couldn't get enough. Can't wait to read more about these characters!

As always, please check your triggers before diving into the gory tale, if you can handle it, it's worth it.

[Trinket Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an action packed read with spice that hit all the right places. Please check yout TWs before reading, as it does touch on a number of sensitive topics.
Aria is a badass, she is the Daughter of 2 of the most prolific assassins' and she too has joined the family business. Aria has been through trauma and her family have been super protective over her, especially her older brother. Aria has had a crush on her brothers best friend, Cove for years but he has always been indifferent to her.
one night at her brothers annual violent games, where Aria has been forbidden to attend, she sneaks in and it’s Cove that finds her. This leads to a spicy tryst which sparks their story together, where Cove makes it his mission to protect Aria’s heart and her life, and Aria works to overcome her trauma and get her revenge on those that caused it - like i said Action packed!!
Give me a brother’s best friend trope any day, but when he’s a tatted brooding boxer , that also a little bloodthirsty - yeah, sign me up!

[Emmy P · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's giving revenge plot.

If you're out here looking for a real stabby read, Kortlek is for the girlies who are feeling a touch murdery in love.

Despite our MMC being absolutely fire, this was a relationship hitting the ground quickly from the start, leaving me feeling the urge to slow down. I wanted to soak in the developments, but we were flying by. That being said, at no point did I question our match as a good one.

In the end, I grew attached to our characters in a suprising way. I have so many questions about our team of players... left, right, and center this had me wondering if there is a book out there about Blair and Arlo? So... if anyone has directions to that, do let me know 🤭

[Mikayla Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔪🥀 ARC Review🥀🔪

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

If @KatKing writes it, I’m definitely going to read it! I love a good Brother’s Best Friend troupe, and this one was exceptional. Aria captured my heart, and my heart ached for her because no one should have to endure what she did. Unfortunately, many people do, and it breaks my heart for them. Aria is fierce, strong, and incredibly brave. Cove, this man is tough and incredibly hot! The way he cares for Aria was everything. I loved how he only had a soft spot for Aria!! Also, the nicknames, everything!! I also love how Aria doesn’t take any shit from him! When she fixes him up and then he pisses her off so she makes him bleed, it had me laughing my a** off!! The spice in this book was so intense, and I can’t help but wonder where I can find my own Cove. The chemistry these two had was off the charts!! I thoroughly enjoyed the way Kat described the game, and it was very intriguing to read. I also appreciated how the trauma was discussed openly and honestly. I absolutely loved Aria and Cove! I would do anything for them both. I can’t wait for Arlo and Briar’s!! Please do yourself a favor and go pick up this book!! The only disappointment you will have is that you can’t read it for the first time again!! And Aria, I completely understand why and how you fell for Cove, because girl, same!!

🔪🥀 Also a Huge thank you to @katking for the ARC!!🥀🔪

#kortlek #katking #darkromance #bookreview #darkromancebooks #darkromancerecs #bookstagram

[Evelyn Cross · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big Thanks to Kat King for gifting me this book. The following review is 100% my own.

Just. Wow. While I’m still getting into more Dark Romance this one definitely made me a fan. Aria and Cove’s story was one they fought - I mean it’s her brother best friend. Forbidden from the start but when they finally give in - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. And Kat makes sure to give you her brother and father’s reaction when they inevitably find out.

They are not the typical mafia family, but they are certainly one for the books. Protective, with their own killer game to play, and Aria can’t wait to finally join in on the fun.

[Yvonne Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stars are for the Kortlek games!

The way the author was able to rope me in and keep my interest during the games was 🤌🏽

Although I was curious when it came to the 2nd generation, it just did not hit as I thought I would. The first one had its flaws, too, so it was not too disappointing to see the same here.

I loved the characters, but it had me questioning the "believability" in the relationship between Cove and Aria. They were each 💯 before coming together and just lost some of their spark as their "relationship" evolved.

I am curious to read books on the other characters, especially Arlo.

[Alex Sedrowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars for this one. Aria and Cove are crazy and crazy for each other. I thought there would be more with the kortlek but it gets to it quickly and through it even quicker. Most of the focus is on Aria being a brat, being in love with Cove, him falling for her once he sees she’s a little maniac too, then the whole family and Cove dealing with her abusive ex. It was fun to see glimpses of Hudson and Noelle as parents and I want to know Blair and Arlo’s story. This felt a bit surface level with the relationships and personalities. Overall enjoyable but not my favorite dark read.

[Mia Lockhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
When I tell you to read Kat king books I mean go for it I highly recommend her books never fail me.
Firstly let’s talk about Aria she is totally girlboss like I want to be like her when I’m older like she was perfect she don’t play like the way she was written was her whole character development was written amazing.
Secondly let’s talk about Cove my new book boyfriend I absolutely love him so much like he was perfect he was chefs kiss the way this man is I want him asap.

[Rachelle Salmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Cove and Aria so much.

Just like all of Kats books, I was pulled in instantly. She definitely has a way with words and I love how she tells a story.
Aria has so much past trauma but that does not take away from how strong she is. I love her sass and stubbornness.
And Cove....Cove Cove Cove. I loved his character. I loved how he gave Aria exactly what she needed. Even if she forced his hand a little.

This was such a good book and I absolutely cannot wait to get into Arlo and Blair.