Carving Graves

KORT #2

by Brandy Hynes

Never let them see. Always keep them guessing. Play their game.

Drowning and rising. Burning and dying.

Corruption and chaos. A heart in a box.

Snick. Flick. Flame.

LIAM

She’s my secret. My answer. My Ace.

I’m a cabal leader for KORT—not a man who gets involved. Never for more than a night.

Certainly not with Celeste Carver—a Daddy’s girl whose biggest problem is which politician to marry.

All I want is a taste.

But the pretentious princess burrows under my skin. And I’m tired of being polite.

Once she’s claimed, there’s no going back.

Not without ending up six feet under.

CELESTE

The Carver name comes with expectations. A legacy.

But no matter how hard I try or how much I hate him, my attention swings to Liam Graves.

Forbidden fruit.

He’s all golden god meets dark angel. Unhinged trouble.

Good thing I have a skilled poker face and a steel determination.

But in a blink, it all spins out of control.

Freedom is captivity.

Dead is alive.

Choice is a butchered pipe dream.

Unless I’m the one holding all the cards.

While the novel can stand alone, significant character development and important details about the character’s lives will be missed without first listening to BURNING IVY.

What to

Jealous/Possessive Hero

Mafia/Secret Society

Found Family

Forbidden/ Secret Relationship

Close Proximity

He falls first and falls Hard

Action/Suspense

Touch her and Die

Praise

Genres: Dark Romance, Audiobook, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Found Family, Mafia Romance, Suspense

Audible Audio

Published August 29, 2024

Reviews

[Kirsten | Bookish.kir · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the KORT series and it is highly recommended to read book one, Burning Ivy first. I absolutely loved both. This is only Brandy Hynes’ second book and she has already safely secured her spot on my auto buy author list. The stories she crafts are so interesting, full of twists and turns and characters you just can’t help but fall in love with. I loved everything about this book and getting more of Ivy and Wells took it over the top for me. The tension and banter between Liam and Celeste were so good and I loved the found family vibes between Celeste and the rest of the group too. And don't even get me started on the spice. Oooof, *fanning myself*

I cannot wait to see what happens in Ty’s book (I have a guess at who the FMC will be, but I don’t think anything has been confirmed yet) and of course with The Big Guy.

**When/if you read Carving Graves make sure you click all the way to the end so you don't miss out of the bonus epilogue, that group chat had me laughing so hard.**

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬:
- ♠️𝐉𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐬/𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨
- 🖤𝐌𝐚𝐟𝐢𝐚/𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲
- ♠️𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲
- 🖤𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧/ 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩
- ♠️𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐲
- 🖤𝐇𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝
- ♠️𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧/𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞
- 🖤𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐞
- ♠️𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞

[Kayla | Kayla Reads Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have NOT read a book by Brandy Hynes yet, what on earth are you waiting for? Her writing is impeccable and she gave us Liam Graves. Which I am so truly grateful for! This man has altered my brain chemistry is the best possible way.

Celeste Carver is expected to live up to a legacy. A legacy she doesn’t want. Liam Graves is a cabal leader for KORT who doesn’t get involved. Especially not for more than a night. So why is the pretentious Carver princess becoming Liam’s best kept secret? And why is Liam Graves becoming the choice Celeste is willing to trade everything she's worked hard for and tarnish her family name for? But once they claim each other, there is no going back.

📚 Book Tropes:
♠️ Morally Grey MMC
♠️ OTT J/P Hero
♠️ Hate to Love/Enemies to Lovers
♠️ Mafia/Secret Society
♠️ Dark Romantic Suspense
♠️ Forbidden/Secret Relationship
♠️ Forced Proximity
♠️ Found Family
♠️ He Falls First and HARD
♠️ Touch Her and 💀
♠️ Praise K!nk

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

💭 My Thoughts: Two words. One name. LIAM MF Graves! I knew I would absolutely love Liam after reading Burning Ivy but he was everything I was expecting and more. Liam changed my brain chemistry in the best possible way. He was pure perfection! There is so much to Liam. His tortured past has made him who he is and he so desperately just wants to be chosen. Celeste on the other hand has been groomed to live a life filled with expectations that does not make her happy. But she feels like that’s what she needs to do for her family. These two needed each other. They helped heal each other. And their love was beautiful 🖤

I loved this book and Brandy Hynes's writing style is so beautiful! She has quickly become one of my of my favorite authors! From the story telling to the chemistry that exists between her characters is perfection! I love how Carving Graves kept me guessing. This one will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what will come next!

I think this goes without saying, but YES I 1000% recommend Carving Graves! This book was so amazing! In fact this whole series has me in a chokehold. And I want you to fall in love with this world too so please do me a favor and add this one to your TBR! You will not be disappointed and you can thank me later!

Thank you Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for allowing me to read CARVING GRAVES as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review. I am so beyond grateful and thankful for having the opportunity!

[BookishRaquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ | 4 🌶️ | 5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Mafia/Secret Society
- Strong & Fierce FMC
- Morally Grey & Possessive MMC
- Enemies to Lovers/Hate to Love
- Forbidden/Secret Relationship
- Touch Her & 💀
- He Falls First
- Dark Romance
- Romantic Suspense
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family

Carving Graves is the second book in the KORT series. The books in this series are best read in order, and as the author's note states, it's best to go in blind. These stories are the type you have to just jump in and experience for yourself. Don't hesitate, just do it. As always, please check the trigger and content warnings if needed.

While reading and listening to Burning Ivy, I found Liam to be one of my favorites. There was definitely something brewing between Liam and Celeste, and their story exceeded all of my expectations. Brandy is a masterful writer and storyteller. This book pulled me in from the beginning, and I refused to put it down. The story is interesting and unique, with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Liam Graves is everything! I love him even more than I did already. He is complicated and morally grey, but so incredibly charming, protective, and possessive. Celeste is strong, loyal, and fierce. Her life has been decided for her, but with Liam shaking things up, she struggles with deciding if she will do what her family wants or what she wants.

I loved Liam and Celeste together. The tension was THICK, and I enjoyed their banter. They denied their feelings as long as they could, but eventually, the walls came down. I love that 'choice' was central to their relationship. The heat is sizzling in this story! Liam has a mouth on him! The character development is outstanding. I enjoyed getting inside Celeste's mind and witnessing the growth she experienced throughout the story. I will never get tired of learning more about Wells and Ivy, and having all of the men together. I highly recommend the KORT series and can't wait for the next book.

Narration:
Angelina Rocca and Aiden Snow expertly performed this audiobook in duet-style narration, which was pure perfection. Both narrators brought the push-and-pull dynamic of Celeste and Liam's relationship to life, as well as the tension and undeniable chemistry between them. Angelina and Aiden fully embodied their characters, kept me engaged, and made this book unputdownable. I highly recommend reading and listening in tandem.

Thanks to Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for the gifted eARC and audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Kaity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio: 4.5 stars for this duet!! Angelina Rocca and Aiden Snow killed this narration.

Book: 4.5 stars but rounding up

And book two is amazing, even though it’s almost 500 pages and I didn’t get bored once! Which is a feat!

I loved seeing Celeste (Ace) and Liam go from loathing one another to then romance!

I don’t want to give too much a way, I honestly went in blind again for this story, and that was the best decision.

Now it’s Ty’s turn and I can’t wait for it!

[Bookaholic Shaima · Rating 5 out of 5]

♟️♠️“𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞. 𝐍𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐬𝐞𝐞.”♠️♟️

♠️♟️“𝐒𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐤. 𝐅𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤. 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐞.” ♠️♟️

I was not prepared for this book to be etched into my soul , or for how much it resonates with me .
Leading to this release I was obsessed with Liam and gushing and just WAITING for MY GUY.
but guess what!!! CELESTE stole the show, a GODDESS , She was by far one of the best FMC ever written ( not just the ones I ever read,fight me 🙄) .

She was EVERYTHING, Sure and insecure, levelheaded and confused. And Liam Graves was helpless against all that aura. And wanted to devour her true essence , not what she shows on the outside, her facade was never meant to fool him.

Her mantra, decisions and life purpose made my heart break for her.

"𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬. 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫. 𝐁𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞."

The spice was pearl clutching worthy,
And Brandy Hynes ACEd it. In every aspect....
75% mark: how can a spicy scene get you all emotion. 🥵🥺, ( everyone must read that scene in all its glory, it's a life experience).

I could go on for days talking about this book ,( I actually , have a saga going in some of your DMs on how freaking OBSESSED with them 🤭 ). I'm not even sorry.

Here's what to expect:

𝓒𝓪𝓻𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓖𝓻𝓪𝓿𝓮𝓼:
♠️Jealous/Possêssive Hero
♟️Mąfia/Secret Society
♠️Found Family
♟️Førbidden/ Secret Relationship
♠️Close Proximity
♟️He falls first and falls Hard.
♠️Action/Suspense
♟️Touch her and ...
♠️Pra!se
♟️Dislike to lovers
♠️Morally gray MMC
♟️ All the (my little $lut, Mine , baby....)

Now I'm in my " Ty & Rena " era, be prepared to be sick of me. 🤗🖤

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, it all hurts so much that I turn everything off, but then I’m numb, which is the equivalent of death. I don’t want to be a ghost in my own life.

This was just WAY. TOO. GOOD!

“I want you to choose me. I need to see it. To feel it. To believe it.”

Fair warning: this will be an ode to Liam Graves. From here on out I will be gushing and sprouting poetic verses about the golden god. Please note that this book boyfriend has moved to the top of the Book Boyfriend List. And without further ado, LIAM friggin GRAVES!



“What do you want from me, Liam?”
“You, Ace. All of you.”

When this man loves, he LOVES. From the very beginning there was a spark. Little did either one of them know that it wasn't a spark, it was a full fledged fire. AN INFERNO!







For as much as I fell head over heels for Liam, I have to say, that I had a MAJOR girl crush on Ms. Celeste "Ace" Carver. Normally, some of the FMC drive me a little batty. They are either too lovey dovey with the male lead, they’re very whiney or just don't cut it as the heroine of the story. Celeste, on the other hand, definitely lives up to the nickname that Liam gave her. She is most definitely the ACE, the Queen.



Celeste is fierce in her love, her loyalty. She is the definition of "ride or die". However, along with that fierceness, there are also insecurities. She wants so many things in her life, dreams for herself. She is one person split in two.



So who is the real Celeste? Is she the poker faced, straight laced, rigged princess that she wants the outside world see? Or is she the girl that wants to love and be loved with the same fierceness?



“You’re just as depraved as I am. Just as eager to chase this rush, to forget the rest of the world. It’s only you and me. There’s no one else when you’re in the room.”

Liam and Celeste's love story was one that I could not tear myself away from. It's the kind of love that starts with the "hate" and passion that ignites like fireworks. It's like the saying goes of a fine between love and hate. They took enemies to lovers to a whole new level!



“I was always yours. And you were always mine. Mine to fight, to chase, to protect, to love. Mine to see. But always mine. Ours.”

Of course I can't leave without talking about the secondary characters. You know my deep love for some those best friends, buddies, pals, fellow amigos that make the love story that much more enjoyable. The peanut gallery at is finest:

“Want some candy, Celeste? If you’re into sucking, I’ve got Lemonheads. Or if you’re a spicy lover, I have Red Hots. Or …If you’d rather have the eyes-rolling-back-in-your-head experience, I’ve got a Dick Taylor chocolate bar.”

Who will be the next KORT soldier to be hit with Cupid's arrow? Looks like Ty will be the next to fall. And I am so ready for him! (Could it be Rena that captures his heart?)

[Stephanie Gail Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well hello there LIAM!!! 😎
…
First the ELEVATOR, then the BARN with the hand necklace, then the POOL!!!! 🫠 And I thought Liam was the golden retriever of the group, but after reading this he turned into a freakin’ attack dog…and I’m not mad about it!!
…
I love the banter in this story because OH MY GAWWWWD does Liam have a way with his words! The ‘Good Girl’ praises were at an all time high!!
…
ALSO…I’m a big chess and poker fan!! The references to those were so fun to read! I’ve been wanting a QUEEN chess piece tattooed and this is giving me some motivation to book my appointment!!
…
AND THE MOTORCYCLE VIBES!!! 🤤
I can go on and on!! 🎉

[Elizabeth Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

O.M.G This book had me hooked from the first chapter. I am so excited for y’all to experience this May 9th.
This book has the PERFECT blend of plot and spice. There is an undeniable amount of chemistry between Liam and Celeste that makes you just smile and kick your feet, but when they get in that bedroom it gets HOT!
I absolutely loved getting to about Liam and Celeste, but it was so good to “check in” with my girl Ivy as well!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never let them see.
Always keep them guessing.
Play their game.

Standing tall on your pedestal in your heels can really be taxing at times.
Feeling the weight of another but, proving that you're right for the role to lead on your family name.
You let them wield you, brush away the creases and know that someday you will be in control.

But, what happens when you slip off that pedestal?

And, fall into the inked muscled arms of smoke and sinful beauty who wants nothing more than to smudge your perfect make-up?

Liam Graves is a faulty spark plug, ready to throw me off course by blowing up my whole damn life. I’m signing up for that ride.

Born and raised in a high class solitarily, Celeste Carver knows that her beauty along with her charming personality will lead her toward a politician marriage one day. After all, it's what her parents want…and so does Celeste. Well, she knows the role of the pawn she must play to hopefully become the queen one day.

But, in the meantime her best friend Ivy Wells is about to pop any day now and now seems like as good a time as any for a break away. Even if the weather will mess with her hair and annoyingly means being with the other man within the house…including one real pain that rile’s up Celeste every time they do meet.

Liam Graves.

Just thinking his name makes Celeste grit her polished teeth and now seeing his chiselled, too good looking, sexy scruff-damn face every day too is going to push all of her buttons.

“What do you want from me, Liam?”

“You, Ace. All of you.”

Celeste’s shields are held high, but it’s getting harder to not let each of the guys break them down as they try to accept her for Ivy sake, only it’s not feeling forced anymore. Celeste is starting to see each one of them in a different light, they are hardly cute kittens but they will lay down their life for Ivy and slowly Celeste allows them to see the woman behind the masks she wears daily.

For one night, the fight becomes too much and Celeste can’t stop her body’s reactions to Liam. She’s always been in charge and took control…but maybe with Liam, Celeste can let go for once and lay herself bare.

The stakes are running high and now all bets are off with the sparks turning into flames.

Who is bluffing and holding the ace of hearts to their chest?

If I don’t get the cards that I need to win the hands, I fucking take them.

The jokester, the playboy and the deadly loose cannon, Liam Graves takes no prisoners and no hook-ups stay the night.

Liam is waiting to play the doting uncle to Ivy bun but, in the meantime he now needs to play nice when Celeste shows up with more Louis Vuitton bags then any woman should need. Liam has always been able to read people, track them down and find out everything there is to know about them, Celeste however has too many masks and becomes a pandora box that Liam is struggling to crack open.

But, Liam has a few tricks up his sleeve and is determined to see Celeste fold her hand and reveal everything that she truly is. It's just a matter of time, only it’s something they don’t have and time is against them with others making their moves across the chessboard.

With the pawns in place, a few knights scattered about and an unguarded crown…who will win and claim the bleeding black heart?

“By the end of the night, I’ll be the taste on your lips, the beating in your chest, the goddamn breath in your lungs. The goodbye you can’t bear.”

Liam & Celeste are sexual, high tension and passionate bomb just waiting to explode…just watch you don’t get burned in the crossfire!

Even from the very first meeting in book 1-which wasn’t in the best situation let’s face it, these two have been spitting fire at each other from the get go. Celeste is a very head strong character, confident and knows her role well enough that she could sleepwalk through a formal stuff boring date nowadays.

So, having Liam throw down a new set of challenges is knocking Celeste off her stride and making her question herself. I love that these two characters have the anger feelings swirling inside toward each other, you can feel that they want to open up but know that it’s going to wound them in the process. Both characters are fitted perfectly together, the walls come down as they see what the other has been hiding all this time and soon want nothing more than to fall together.

I loved Liam's character already, he always seemed like the “fun little brother” type of character in the group and he knows how to play with Celeste trying to get under her skin-and knickers too! But, there is more to him than he shows and it was good reading more about his past, how it affects him now and buffing when he needs to.

Celeste gives off the high maintenance, classy and posh outlook, she carries it off well but really, she’s just a girl who is actually very down to earth. Celeste wants to prove herself to her family name and that means she can’t have what she wants-or rather who she wants. I love the concept of this, the real reason why Celeste is reaching for her goals and seeing the real Celeste when she does throw caution to the wind.

With our favourite family growing and becoming even more paranoid with a momma bear growling at them, the guys will need each other more than ever!

Don’t forget this is a KORT series and danger is never too far behind. Secrets literally bleed through these pages, threats are whispers in the night, a mystery is becoming a never ending riddle and poisoned sweet goods are always freshly served with a sharp knife…

Are you ready to hold your nerve to the very end of the game?

“Seems like if you were going to pick a time to fight, it’d be when the stakes were the highest.”

[CoffeeAndBooksWithSarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Liam f****** Graves!!!! That’s all I gotta say. He is so dreamy worthy and hits all the right buttons that you want in a male fictional character. I devoured this book and knew I was going to from just the first few pages.

In Burning Ivy you are introduced to Celeste and Liam and know they are both fierce characters. As they were both shown as devoted and loyal friends. I expected a lot from their own love story and I wasn’t disappointed.

Right from the beginning you get all the angst, close proximity and wonderful and hot banter from these two. Once they actually hit it off their chemistry is explosive.
Liam is morally gray, possessive as hell and just falls so damn hard for Celeste. Celeste is strong in her own right with enough baggage to cause her to have trust issues but it was so enjoyable to see her fall for this hero.

I love this world and can’t wait until we get Ty and Gage’s stories. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys these tropes to check this out!! I may just have my new favorite author!

✔️Jealous/Possessive Hero
✔️Mafia/Secret Society
✔️Found Family
✔️Forbidden/ Secret Relationship
✔️Close Proximity
✔️He falls first and falls Hard.
✔️Action/Suspense
✔️Touch her and Die
✔️Praise

#BrandyHynes #DarkRomance #SpicyReads #MorallyGrey #PossessiveHero #Mafia #SecretSociety #FoundFamily ##CloseProximity #enemiestolovers #HeFallsFirstAndFallsHard #Suspense #TouchHerAndDie #Praise #wordsmithpublicity

[kevork_1989 · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was such a massive improvement from book #1. I am happy I decided to pull back from the DNF and finish this. Initially I stopped at 20% because the story was going nowhere. But the next day I decided to try again and just as I did the story picked up. Liam and Celeste were a far superior and enjoyable couple compared to Wells and Ivy. I just did not like Wells much tbh. He didn’t develop as a character through the 1st book and not even in the 2nd book as he STILL is keeping things hidden from Ivy. Like why dude??

I am hit and miss with Brandy’s writing. This one wasn’t as descriptive thank god! Because the first book was overkill with the over descriptive paragraphs. Book #2 still had some but it wasn’t as much. It felt like the characters actually developed and grew together on the journey. Liam was hilarious and unhinged with his antics towards Celeste and I ate it up.

I still very much believe the length of these books is unecessary. This could’ve been 100 pages less again. The first 20% especially was a waste of time and it could’ve started from 20% on and been the same book. Overall a solid book. Definitely looking forward to the next 2 in the series.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't even know where to start with this review. This book was so good! I read it in one sitting and could not put it down.

Liam Graves is THE man and the mouth on him.....I was squirming in my chair and sweating from his words. Liam will do anything for his family and that includes Celeste the girl he thought was spoiled who he loved to have banter yet but Liam couldn't be more wrong about Celeste and as he starts to really see her more Liam is pulled into Celestes orbit.

Celeste...I love a strong FMC who is also a little broken inside. Celeste will do anything for her family even if that means not following her dreams that she wants. But when Liam sets his sights on her can Celeste really have what she truly wants vs what is expected of her?

Liam and Celeste are everything together. Liam sees Celeste more than anyone else..he sees her true self and not what she wants others to see. I loved how Liam pushed Celeste it was what she needed but didn't know she needed. Dare I say I loved Liam and Celeste over Wells and Ivy? Yes...yes I did. There was just something about these two that really pulled you wanting more and never wanting their story to end. This book could be 1000 pages and I'd read all of it to see these two.

Quotes:
Liam Graves is a faulty spark plug, ready to throw me off course by blowing up my whole damn life. I'm not signing up for that ride.

Forget the motorcycle. The golden god can throw me down, shatter my resolve, and smite me right here, scolding me in the glow of debauchery.

"I'm that guy." He throws a thumb back toward our abandoned table. "And the one in front of you. And the one you nearly fucked behind the barn. I know exactly who I am. You know why that is, Carver? Because I'm always me. Unlike you, who has a different persona for every fucking person in your life. You're like a goddamn chameleon. Any idea what your real color is, Ace?"

"Do it. Annihilate me until I'm catatonic,"

"Fuck that," I snarl, pressing into her, my half-mast dick nudging her stomach. "I won't make this easy on you, Celeste. Everyone else in your life is fighting for you to put them first. This is one time I'm not the bad guy. All I want is for you to put your own desires first."

"I want you to fall in love with the sunrise." With me. "Why the sunrise?" "Because I'll always show up, Ace. No matter how dark it gets, I'll always fucking show up. That's our fairy tale."

Thank you to Brandy Hynes for the arc of this book

[mary ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐️ - 5 ⭐️

“You’re mine, Ace. I’ll never let you go.”

Celeste thinks no one sees what she hides, she masks her emotions because that's what she was taught, when in fact she's sweet, caring, and loves helping others.
Will Liam see her for who she try is, or will he keep judging the book by its cover?
He's her golden god, her dark angel and she's his Ace, his good girl they are perfect for each other, but they don't know it yet.

Oh Liam, how much I disliked you in the first book, and how I absolutely loved you in this one! why is he so damn hot suddenly? By 20% into the book he's an absolute goner for her, but he denies it because he supposedly "hates" her.
He's even more unhinged than Wells was with Ivy at the beginning. He was ready to kill anyone for her like how romantic is that!!!

“I can’t conceive a universe in which I wouldn’t want her, whether anyone else understood how perfect she was or not.”

I loved how they both unraveled each other's true colors, seeing how perfectly their pieces fit. Ty and Gage were total sweethearts in this one too, I get so excited every time they pop up. And Wells and Ivy? Loved their new roles and how much they helped everyone grow.

Now l'm just counting down the days until Ty and Rena's book. The tension between them is gonna be off the charts, and I already know it's gonna be fiery and chaotic!

[Milica's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I was not too fond of this story as much as the first in the series, it was a great read!
I liked Celeste's character more than Liam's, I plan to reread it soon to explain better.

And I am very much looking forward to the next story in the series. ♥

[thebeespot72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been on a Romantic Suspense reading kick. I love the build-up, the action, and all the excitement. Author Brandy Hynes adds the touch of her unalive element, OTT/JP morally grey MMC, to the mix, all in her continuation of the mafia-like secret society world she built in Book 1. I do recommend reading “Burning Ivy” as Book 2 has carry-over characters and themes that tie together.

” Carving Graves” is a hefty one, standing close to 500 pages, but readers will love these characters and their world. Brandy Hynes does not write weak characters, and Celeste (FMC) is a strong character with a strong mind. The connection between her and Liam (MMC) makes a perfect match. Liam is the one who can break through her tough exterior.

And the spice in “Carving Graves,” holy moly, guacamole. I thought Wells in “Burning Ivy” with his thigh pat thing was hot, but when Liam says, “Good Girl,” all bets are off.

[Readingwithdesi · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED LIAM AND CELESTE !! Dare I say more than wells and ivy?? Maybe the same but different I couldn’t put this book down and I definitely cried at the ending… this was 10/5 stars!!

[Mrs D Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words fail - love love love

[Mellovesaudiobooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:

Carving Graves
The KORT series • Book 2

Narrated By: Aiden Snow and Angelina Rocca

When I found out book 3 in the KORT series was coming to audio I couldn’t go another day without listening to book 2, Carving Graves. I loved the first book in this series Burning Ivy and highly recommend listening to these in order to understand the complete character development and journey. The KORT series is a suspenseful, secret society/mafia with a dark romance element and Carving Graves follows Liam Graves And Celeste Carver. Liam Graves, who is second-in-command as a leader of KORT and a man who will at all costs protect the people he calls family, that now includes Celeste. Celeste seems prim and proper on the outside but is sassy, blunt and although her family has certain demands in place for her future she is rebellious and Liam is right there to hold her hand. I loved Liam in this book he’s relentless, wild, and blunt and Celeste has him breaking every wall he’s worked hard to put up. Aiden Snow and Angelina Rocca narrate in duet and what a perfect combination. Angelina is amazing at giving that sassy attitude while still showing the hesitance of the situation through her voice, she expressed Celestes’ confidence so beautifully, and changed her tones when Celeste was confronting the situation to give us a better understanding of how true and committed her feelings were. Aiden gives off the perfect cockiness to Liam, you can tell behind his voice he’s confident and tough, has zero fears and will do whatever is possible to protect those he cares for. I also loved the soft moments and the possessiveness Aiden expressed when Liam was reassuring Celeste through their journey. I have enjoyed Brandy Hynes writing in this series, connecting you to each character and keeping you hooked throughout the entire story.

Listened on Audible.

[Marrissa Horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carving Graves is an amazing follow up to Burning Ivy. These characters and their complex stories are going to live rent free in my head for a long time to come. Once again, Brandy created a fun, feisty FMC that I adored. I really love her writing style. And this premise she has created is so interesting and unique, I can’t get enough! The found family aspect is one of my favorites, the four guys at the center of everything are all different, unhinged, and so very lovable. The chemistry and banter between Liam and Celeste were the best, and I loved how their relationship developed. Just like with Burning Ivy, I definitely recommend going in blind!

The audiobook is narrated by Aiden Snow and Angelina Rocca, and their voices were made for these characters. Aiden was perfect for the golden retriever + morally gray mix of Liam, it is one of my favorite performances by him. And Angelina is always amazing too, she has a sultry voice that brought out the emotion and personality of Celeste in the best ways. And it’s performed in DUET!

Listen if you like ⇣
♥️Dark Romance
🤍Mafia/Secret Society
🖤Suspense
🤍Found Family
♥️Dislike to Lovers
🤍Forbidden Relationship
🖤Close Proximity
🤍He Falls First
♥️Dual POV
🤍Spice

[Ashley Salcedo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg. I thought I loved the first book, but this one now has my heart. I had loved Celeste the moment we were introduced in book one. Book two only made me love her more. Celeste and Liam were so perfect together, and I loooved how easily their love blossomed. Liam is a love sick puppy when it comes to her, and I knew the moment he found her in that hotel room that he would never let anything happen to her. I honestly think that was my favorite part of the story for both characters. The strength Celeste had in that moment, and the connection Liam had to know something was wrong. *chefs kiss*. This series has been addictive and I cannot wait to see what happens next!


Authors note: While the novel can stand alone, significant character development and important details about the character’s lives will be missed without first reading BURNING IVY.

What to expect in this book:
Jealous/Possessive Hero
Mafia/Secret Society
Found Family
Forbidden/ Secret Relationship
Close Proximity
He falls first and falls Hard.
Action/Suspense
Touch her and Die
Praise

[Aline · Rating 4 out of 5]

The last 20% of this book saved it for me. I loved it, but I feel like C we got on previous book, and C in this book are two completely different people.

In previous book she was adventurous, sassy bombshell conquering the world and going through boyfriends like there is no tomorrow.

In this book she was timid, shy and inexperienced girl who follows every word her parents say.

The whole friendship with Ivy dynamic was also wrong, in this book Ivy is portrayed like the most powerful, wise and understanding woman in the world, while C is quiet girl who is afraid she will not fit in. It kinda did not make sense. But because I’m invested in these characters and in the story in general, I still enjoyed the book and will continue with series.

Audio is phenomenal though ❤️

[Michelle Graham | meshellreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liam Graves is THE MAN! He is delicious and attentive and dominant and so fucking sexy. I am obsessed with this man. There are scenes in this book that will live rent free in my brain. The sauna. That’s it.
Celeste Carver is a bad ass! She meets Liam with every jab and they are perfect for each other!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The MMC’s in this series are 👌

[Jacklyn B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for Celeste and Liam’s story - I read this in two days - I could not put it down! I love everything about the KORT series - the secrets and twists and suspense and sense of found family. The banter is so good too! This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading Burning Ivy first!

Celeste Carver feels trapped by her family name and legacy. Liam Graves never gets involved with a woman…but she is under his skin and now there is no going back….

I completely fell in love with Liam in book 1 and I couldn’t wait to find out more about Celeste. She is feisty and sassy and I loved the tension! She is strong and smart and I loved her as the FMC. Liam falls so hard for her and we get this great back and forth. They have amazing chemistry and I loved how they clashed at first.

Yes Liam is unhinged and possessive and he also cares deeply for Celeste he is a full blown cinnamon roll for her!! He is also dealing with demons from his past and she has some baggage too. They both have some things to work out. And yes, there are some very steam scenes!!

I am completely obsessed with the characters in this story. I really loved the relationships Celeste built with Wells and Ty and Gage and of course her friendship with Ivy.

I can’t wait to read the next few books!!!

✨What to Expect:
🥀Mafia and Secret Society
⏳Romantic Suspense
🤫Forbidden/Secret Relationship
▪️Dislike To Lovers
❤️‍🔥JP/OTT Morally Grey MMC
💋Strong FMC
♠️”Ace”
🌼Found Family
🔪Touch Her & 💀
🧲Close Proximity
🖤He Falls First And Hard
🔥Very Steamy Scenes

[Angie Holden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book knowing I was going to love it. After reading "Burning Ivy," my expectations were high, but Brandy Hynes completely surpassed them! This book is absolutely EVERYTHING. I already knew it would be great, but it even outshines "Burning Ivy"—and I say that with the utmost respect for the first book. The deeper exploration of the found family dynamic is what truly elevates this story for me. The characters' loyalty and care for each other are indescribable. Once you're in, you're in, and there's no turning back. It was clear with Ivy, and then comes Celeste, who’s embraced by everyone’s loving arms.

This story hits every mark I could ask for in a great book. Enemies to lovers? Check. Mafia romance? Check. Found family? Check. "Touch her and die"? Check. Best friends forever? Check. Filthy, dirty spice? Check. Edge-of-your-seat action and suspense? Check. Possessive MMC and feisty FMC? Double check. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would, but 5 is the limit, so I digress.

Now, let's talk about Liam and Celeste. Mmm, mmmm, mmmmm!! They are absolutely irresistible! The push and pull, the chemistry they try to ignore, and then finally giving in to their desires had me all up in my feelings. I loved Liam in the first book, but we didn’t get nearly as much Celeste, so I’m thrilled she’s in the spotlight this time. We also get more of Liam, and as much as I love Wells, I could just eat Liam up! He’s just as possessive as Wells but tries to mask it by being a total jerk to Celeste. Not that she doesn’t get her own jabs in, which I love. The character growth in this book is outstanding. Brandy Hynes does an amazing job with each character's backstory, and you really get to know Celeste on a deep level. I love how Liam breaks through her defenses and isn’t afraid to dive into her true colors. Their romance is both beautiful and dirty, everything I love in a great romance story.

Additionally, the family dynamic among all the characters is so touching, and the banter and humor had me laughing out loud several times. The plot is intriguing and kept me on the edge of my seat. There's a lot of action and puzzle pieces to uncover, all beautifully written and perfectly placed. There’s so much more I could say, but I feel like I’m just rambling at this point. This book is absolutely worth the read. This series is the best mafia romance I’ve read, and I don’t say that lightly. I can’t wait for the next book—I need my sweetheart Ty to steal the show and my heart.

Thank you to Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for letting me be part of the ARC team and valuing my opinions as a reader. I am truly honored.

[~lil maso~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

Carving Graves is the very clever title for the second book in the KORT series, a fabulous play on both lead character’s names. Book one, Burning Ivy, was terrific, but I suggest you read it first if you haven’t, or else you will miss vital background information.

Liam Graves and Celeste Carver don’t match on paper in this intense enemies-to-lovers romantic suspense story. Shame about that, but Liam and Celeste don’t always follow the rules. I absolutely loved these two lead characters together; their chemistry was almost tangible, with sparks flying out everywhere. This story was about their need for each other; they just went together like ‘peas and carrots’ as Forrest Gump said. Yet the obstacles in their way were extremely high.

Being about KORT, this is a dark book, and the suspense element is incredibly involved and deliciously exciting. Mind you, it was also ‘on the edge of your seat’ stuff with your heart racing. I always enjoy twists and turns in a storyline, and Carving Graves has them pop out just as you least expect them—brilliant.

This book is passionate, intense entertainment at its finest.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

[Erin Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC REVIEW

Carving Graves - Brandy Hynes

5/5⭐️
4/5 🌶️

✨✨✨✨✨✨
Wow this book was truly so well written I really felt as if I was there with all the characters! Liam is seriously the MMC that has me falling hard and fast for him! Celeste is one strong a fierce FMC! Their love story was just one I can’t even put into words. This book had all the angst, the hottest banter! The possessiveness while being morally grey in Liam had me swooning over him. Celeste finally chooses herself and what she got was a beautiful love. The last 25% of this book seriously had me on my toes needing to bust out the rest of it! I highly recommend this one to add to your tbr!

This is book 2 in the KORT series. It can be read as a standalone but highly recommended to read book 1 first.

📚📚📚
If you like to read:
~ Hate to Love
~ Mafia and Secret Society
~ First Person/ Dual POV
~ Found Family
~ Action/ Suspense
~ Spice
~He fall first and hard
~ Filthy-mouthed possessive Cabal Boss
~ Touch her and you 💀
~ Strong FMC
~ Forbidden/ Secret Relationship
~ Close Proximity
… You should definitely check this out

📚📚📚

Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. @wordsmithpublicity

✨What’s a book you’ve enjoyed with one of these tropes?

#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc #wordsmithpublicy

[Suni ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✮⋆˙ ARC REVIEW ✮⋆˙

If you haven’t read a Brandy Hynes book by now idk what’s wrong with you! And I cannot for the life of me understand why this book is not talked about enough?! After reading book 1 of this series, I had high expectations for Liam and his book and when I say this is one of my favorite dark romance books I’ve read, EVER, even that feels like an understatement. The character’s relationships and dynamic are so incredibly written. There were moments in this book that made me jealous and then the fmc wasn’t even jealous and I realized that I may be the problem…😭😂

But! Onto the main characters!! Liam! One of my new and favorite top book boyfriends! Even though this was already an enemies to lovers book, he was down bad from the very beginning. Then when their relationship started evolving, BOYFRIEND LIAM WAS EVERYTHING!!! Possessive! Loves gift giving 🤭😉 Once he claimed her as his there was truly no going back. On to Celeste! My favorite girl! She was so badass and knew what she wanted and her boundaries and I loved everything about her. I related to her in so many ways, the way she brought Liam to his knees….❤️‍🔥🤭 both literally and figuratively! AMAZING!

Dark romance girlies and the girlies wanting to get into dark romance please please please pick this series up! It’s not extremely dark but it’s a great gateway into the genre and if you’re already into dark romance, this book is a perfect balance to read after a very dark book and if you need a break from dark subject matter.

[Robyn Corcoran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
Carving Graves is the very clever title for the second book in the KORT series, a fabulous play on both lead character’s names. Book one, Burning Ivy, was terrific, but I suggest you read it first if you haven’t, or else you will miss vital background information.

Liam Graves and Celeste Carver don’t match on paper in this intense enemies-to-lovers romantic suspense story. Shame about that, but Liam and Celeste don’t always follow the rules. I absolutely loved these two lead characters together; their chemistry was almost tangible, with sparks flying out everywhere. This story was about their need for each other; they just went together like ‘peas and carrots’ as Forrest Gump said. Yet the obstacles in their way were extremely high.

Being about KORT, this is a dark book, and the suspense element is incredibly involved and deliciously exciting. Mind you, it was also ‘on the edge of your seat’ stuff with your heart racing. I always enjoy twists and turns in a storyline, and Carving Graves has them pop out just as you least expect them—brilliant.

This book is passionate, intense entertainment at its finest.

[Denise Heatley · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ALC review* How do you make me love a book that I've already read and loved? You cast Angelina Rocca and Aiden Snow as the FMC/MMC and let them work their magic!! I already loved Liam and Celeste's story, but the passion and emotions that Angelina and Aiden brought to these characters made me fall even harder! It enhanced so many parts that I was already familiar with, but each scene that unfolded felt fresh and new as if I hadn't already known what was going to happen. Banter that was already so good in the book, were that much better brought to life by these narrators! Thank you so much to Wordsmith Publicity for allowing me a chance to listen to this story and experience the world of Kort all over again!

*ARC review* Where do I even begin with this book?! There was a little of everything in this book, from angst, to drama, to suspense, to 🌶🌶, to laughter, and even to crying! Celeste is a badass FMC who needed to be seen and not sheltered, and Liam was every bit the morally gray MMC who loves fiercely and gives zero fùçķs if you don't like it. This is book 2 in the Kort series, and while it can be read as a standalone you really should read book 1 (Burning Ivy) first to truly appreciate the characters in this story. This found family has taken a piece of my heart, and I have no desire to get it back!