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KORT #4
Charring Bones
You’re either the hunter or the hunted. The lion or the lamb. Bound on an altar. Belts of deceit. Tangerine skies. Taunted by time. Scorch. Stack. Salt.
Gage
She’s my nightmare. My weakness. My Wicked. Ainsley Morelli was everything I craved, the breath in my lungs, my only home. But she sent me to die, and threw dirt on my grave. That was another life. When she had the upper hand. In this one, I’m the lead enforcer for KORT. And she’s on the run and in my backyard. I’ve waited years to ruin her and her family. Her smoking gun might do it for me. No need to rush. I’ve always enjoyed playing with my prey.
Ainsley
My life as a Morelli has been full of duplicities. Betrayal traded for loyalty. Becoming a fugitive for freedom. And Gage Porter was at the center of every unraveling thread. Only he wasn’t Gage then. And he didn’t survive—or so I thought. Until a man three times the size of the boy with amber eyes pins me to a wall in the shelter where I took refuge. That tracks. I sought protection and became a prisoner. But times are changing. In this story, the burnt offering rises to be the butcher. Freed by the very hands that counted my fleeting breaths. Until the ticking stops. Family means sacrifice.
This is book four in The KORT Series. It’s best to start with book one, BURNING IVY.
Significant character growth, world building, and events occur in the first three novels, so books should be listened to in order for the best experience. What to
Mafia/Secret Society
Jealous/Possessive hero
Action/Suspense
Second Chance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced proximity
Trauma healing
Obsessed MMC Found family
Touch her and unalive
Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Gage
She’s my nightmare. My weakness. My Wicked. Ainsley Morelli was everything I craved, the breath in my lungs, my only home. But she sent me to die, and threw dirt on my grave. That was another life. When she had the upper hand. In this one, I’m the lead enforcer for KORT. And she’s on the run and in my backyard. I’ve waited years to ruin her and her family. Her smoking gun might do it for me. No need to rush. I’ve always enjoyed playing with my prey.
Ainsley
My life as a Morelli has been full of duplicities. Betrayal traded for loyalty. Becoming a fugitive for freedom. And Gage Porter was at the center of every unraveling thread. Only he wasn’t Gage then. And he didn’t survive—or so I thought. Until a man three times the size of the boy with amber eyes pins me to a wall in the shelter where I took refuge. That tracks. I sought protection and became a prisoner. But times are changing. In this story, the burnt offering rises to be the butcher. Freed by the very hands that counted my fleeting breaths. Until the ticking stops. Family means sacrifice.
This is book four in The KORT Series. It’s best to start with book one, BURNING IVY.
Significant character growth, world building, and events occur in the first three novels, so books should be listened to in order for the best experience. What to
Mafia/Secret Society
Jealous/Possessive hero
Action/Suspense
Second Chance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced proximity
Trauma healing
Obsessed MMC Found family
Touch her and unalive
Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Audible Audio
Published April 17, 2025
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February 27, 2025That's a wrap on The KORT Series! I'm not crying, you're crying.
Gage and Ainsley were the perfect ending to the beauty-in-the-broken theme woven throughout this series. This found family has carved a forever space in my heart. Thank you for loving them with me. To know they have found a home inside so many readers, not simply my own brain, is a gift I will always cherish.
Here's to shooting stars, keeping them guessing, blueberry fields, and tangerine skies.
I hope you love the orange!🧡
Gage and Ainsley were the perfect ending to the beauty-in-the-broken theme woven throughout this series. This found family has carved a forever space in my heart. Thank you for loving them with me. To know they have found a home inside so many readers, not simply my own brain, is a gift I will always cherish.
Here's to shooting stars, keeping them guessing, blueberry fields, and tangerine skies.
I hope you love the orange!🧡
February 23, 2025
Did I finish Charring Bones or did Charring Bones finish me... that is the real question. And if you guessed that it finished me then you would in fact be correct.
Now if you know me at all, I am a walking talking billboard for Brandy Hynes. I think this series is massively under hyped and I am so sad to see this series come to an end. With that being said, I’m at a loss for words at how beautiful this ending. This series is so near and dear to my heart and this book was the perfect way to end it. I am so sad to move on from these characters but I don’t think I have ever read a more beautiful ending to a series in my life.
Now if you have read this series then you know these are all 5 star bangers, and Charring Bones is no different. But I will say this story is slightly different in the fact that this one is a second chance romance. Which means, our girl Ainsley knew Gage before he erased and as you can imagine this poses a little bit of a problem. But don't worry our girl Ainsley is fierce! She may be my favorite FMC of this series and in true Brandy Hynes fashion, she is a true badass!
I loved everything about this book. It was so beautifully written. I loved how grumpy Gage is but deep down he is a big teddy bear. I loved how Ainsley gave Gage a run for his money. The spice was written like poetry. The plot was a plotting. There was absolutely NOTHING about this book I did not like. It was top tier pure perfection!
Brandy, thank you for an incredible journey and another 5 star banger that will live with me for the rest of my life. This whole series has altered my brain chemistry in the best possible way. So if you needed a sign to read the KORT series then let this be your sign that now is the time!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Dark Romantic Suspense
- Second Chance Romance
- Secret Society
- Morally Grey OTT Hero
- Fierce/Badass FMC
- Trauma Healing
- Enemies to Lovers
- Found Family
- Touch Her and Die
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Brandy Hynes for allowing me the absolute pleasure to read Charring Bones was an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Now if you know me at all, I am a walking talking billboard for Brandy Hynes. I think this series is massively under hyped and I am so sad to see this series come to an end. With that being said, I’m at a loss for words at how beautiful this ending. This series is so near and dear to my heart and this book was the perfect way to end it. I am so sad to move on from these characters but I don’t think I have ever read a more beautiful ending to a series in my life.
Now if you have read this series then you know these are all 5 star bangers, and Charring Bones is no different. But I will say this story is slightly different in the fact that this one is a second chance romance. Which means, our girl Ainsley knew Gage before he erased and as you can imagine this poses a little bit of a problem. But don't worry our girl Ainsley is fierce! She may be my favorite FMC of this series and in true Brandy Hynes fashion, she is a true badass!
I loved everything about this book. It was so beautifully written. I loved how grumpy Gage is but deep down he is a big teddy bear. I loved how Ainsley gave Gage a run for his money. The spice was written like poetry. The plot was a plotting. There was absolutely NOTHING about this book I did not like. It was top tier pure perfection!
Brandy, thank you for an incredible journey and another 5 star banger that will live with me for the rest of my life. This whole series has altered my brain chemistry in the best possible way. So if you needed a sign to read the KORT series then let this be your sign that now is the time!
You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Dark Romantic Suspense
- Second Chance Romance
- Secret Society
- Morally Grey OTT Hero
- Fierce/Badass FMC
- Trauma Healing
- Enemies to Lovers
- Found Family
- Touch Her and Die
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Brandy Hynes for allowing me the absolute pleasure to read Charring Bones was an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
February 27, 2025
Scratch. Stack. Salt.
'Charring Bones' is an intense and emotional finale to the KORT series, for which nothing could have prepared me. It's a rollercoaster of revenge, redemption, and second chances, making an unforgettable read.
Gage and Ainsley’s relationship is filled with heartbreak, longing, and undeniable chemistry. Once broken and seeking vengeance, Gage is now an unstoppable force, while Ainsley fights to reclaim her power. Their push-and-pull dynamic keeps the tension high, and their journey together is both brutal and beautiful.
Brandy's writing is stunning, weaving together raw emotion, action, and sizzling romance. The found family element adds depth to the story, proving that bonds forged in fire can be just as strong as blood. The twists are unexpected, the pacing is gripping, and the spice? Absolutely top-tier!! 🔥
This book is a phenomenal conclusion to an incredible series. If you love dark romance with morally gray heroes, fierce heroines, and high-stakes drama, you must read this story.
Thank you Brandy, for this unforgettable journey. I’ll miss this world and these characters, but I'm so excited about the next series!
'Charring Bones' is an intense and emotional finale to the KORT series, for which nothing could have prepared me. It's a rollercoaster of revenge, redemption, and second chances, making an unforgettable read.
Gage and Ainsley’s relationship is filled with heartbreak, longing, and undeniable chemistry. Once broken and seeking vengeance, Gage is now an unstoppable force, while Ainsley fights to reclaim her power. Their push-and-pull dynamic keeps the tension high, and their journey together is both brutal and beautiful.
Brandy's writing is stunning, weaving together raw emotion, action, and sizzling romance. The found family element adds depth to the story, proving that bonds forged in fire can be just as strong as blood. The twists are unexpected, the pacing is gripping, and the spice? Absolutely top-tier!! 🔥
This book is a phenomenal conclusion to an incredible series. If you love dark romance with morally gray heroes, fierce heroines, and high-stakes drama, you must read this story.
Thank you Brandy, for this unforgettable journey. I’ll miss this world and these characters, but I'm so excited about the next series!
April 17, 2025
♾️⭐️ for this book and honestly this whole series will live rent free in my head probably forever.
This book is so raw, beautiful, and I honestly couldn’t imagine a better way for the KORT series to end with one of my favorite found families! This book had me laughing, crying, panicking, and just experiencing all of the emotions - sometimes in the same chapter! I honestly wish I could re-read this book for the first time because I truly loved it so much.
I had a feeling that Gage was going to end up topping Ty as my favorite MMC and he definitely delivered! He’s always had that mysterious aura surrounding him and I knew there would be so much under the surface that would come to light in his book. What I didn’t expect was for Ainsley to also take my top spot for FMCs in this series! I mean, I love all of them, but Gage & Ainsley etched themselves onto my heart and into my soul. Both of them have experienced so much in their years apart, but they both are so freaking strong and always found a way to continue moving forward with their lives.
Ainsley certainly lives up to the nickname Wicked, and I loved how feisty she was from the beginning when they first saw each other again. She might have been seen as a lamb before, but now she is a lioness stepping up and refusing to be controlled by anyone, even the people who care for her. I respect the heck out of her for all her choices she made, even when things seemed so dark.
The tension between these two is so f**king thick that I felt it as if I was there. The way these two truly are enemies in every aspect when they are reunited only added to this tension. And the spice between them - HOLY SMOKES. It’s hot, but also cathartic in a way - if that makes any sense. There are scenes that I will NEVER be able to forget between these two!
I honestly was so shocked with some of the plot twists that this book has and I absolutely needed to keep reading to find out what would happen next. I cannot wait to see what Brandy has coming for us in the future, but I am so excited for it!
AUDIOBOOK:
The audio for Charring Bones is absolutely phenomenal!! It is narrated in duet by Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan and I honestly couldn’t have picked anyone else better for this! Every single emotion in this book was heard in the audio and it only made the story so much more impactful!
After I read this book, I literally could not wait for the audio and this series will forever be a top tier series in my mind! I will be screaming about this series until I can’t speak and will be re-reading/listening hands down!
.
.
Thank you so much to Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review! I’m so grateful to be a part of your street team 🤍🤍.
This book is so raw, beautiful, and I honestly couldn’t imagine a better way for the KORT series to end with one of my favorite found families! This book had me laughing, crying, panicking, and just experiencing all of the emotions - sometimes in the same chapter! I honestly wish I could re-read this book for the first time because I truly loved it so much.
I had a feeling that Gage was going to end up topping Ty as my favorite MMC and he definitely delivered! He’s always had that mysterious aura surrounding him and I knew there would be so much under the surface that would come to light in his book. What I didn’t expect was for Ainsley to also take my top spot for FMCs in this series! I mean, I love all of them, but Gage & Ainsley etched themselves onto my heart and into my soul. Both of them have experienced so much in their years apart, but they both are so freaking strong and always found a way to continue moving forward with their lives.
Ainsley certainly lives up to the nickname Wicked, and I loved how feisty she was from the beginning when they first saw each other again. She might have been seen as a lamb before, but now she is a lioness stepping up and refusing to be controlled by anyone, even the people who care for her. I respect the heck out of her for all her choices she made, even when things seemed so dark.
The tension between these two is so f**king thick that I felt it as if I was there. The way these two truly are enemies in every aspect when they are reunited only added to this tension. And the spice between them - HOLY SMOKES. It’s hot, but also cathartic in a way - if that makes any sense. There are scenes that I will NEVER be able to forget between these two!
I honestly was so shocked with some of the plot twists that this book has and I absolutely needed to keep reading to find out what would happen next. I cannot wait to see what Brandy has coming for us in the future, but I am so excited for it!
AUDIOBOOK:
The audio for Charring Bones is absolutely phenomenal!! It is narrated in duet by Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan and I honestly couldn’t have picked anyone else better for this! Every single emotion in this book was heard in the audio and it only made the story so much more impactful!
After I read this book, I literally could not wait for the audio and this series will forever be a top tier series in my mind! I will be screaming about this series until I can’t speak and will be re-reading/listening hands down!
.
.
Thank you so much to Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review! I’m so grateful to be a part of your street team 🤍🤍.
February 20, 2025
♾️⭐️
When I can see again, through the tears. You’ll get a review. Until then.. just Orange. Always orange. 😭🧡
A beautiful conclusion to an absolutely life changing, wonderful series. I couldn’t have asked for a better ending for this beautiful couple, and their beautiful family if I had written it myself. This book and the ending were absolutely stunning, and I’m still struggling to put into words how much these books and these characters mean to me. This review will purposely be vague, because unless you read these stories, you’ll never truly understand that magic that is KORT.
Ainsley and Gage have a twisted past. Love at first meeting, a quick, brief relationship. A love that was pushed to its limits and beyond. Until the day Gage disappears, and Ainsley buries him for good.
Over a decade later, Ainsley is on the run, and who does she run straight, smack dab into? Gage of course. And they’re both FURIOUS. These two HATE each other. Cannot stand to even be in the same room with one another, but they both remember. They remember the good times, the hard times, and it’s quite literally impossible to stay away from your one true enemy.
This book broke me in the best of ways. I was completely powerless when it came to putting these two down. As usual with Brandy, each chapter was jam packed with excitement, adventure, and sweet, tender moments. HEALING. This book healed me, healed Gage, healed Ains, and healed their now completed Found Family. I felt torn apart and out back together by the end of this book, and man.. was the ending sweet. Perfect. Soul cleansing.
As usual, Brandy brings the SPICE. Deliciously memorable spice. Spice that will have you SWEATING, clutching your pearls (if anyone still wears those), and bringing all new levels of smut to the table. We’re talking IUD removal, Creamsicles, Pastry’s, and Towels that aren’t for sleeping on. 😏 MEMORABLE. HOT AS HECK. UNFORGETTABLE.
I’m so sad to be done with these characters, but the next series was beautifully set up in this last book, and now i can’t wait! Bring on the Noire Brothers. I’m ready to be hurt again.. maybe.
I am still a Liam & Celeste girlie for life. No one can touch Carving Graves for me. But Gage and Ainsley are hot on their heels. Brandy truly saved the best book for last, and I’m so in awe of her writing and the absolute chokehold it has on me, time and time again.
When I can see again, through the tears. You’ll get a review. Until then.. just Orange. Always orange. 😭🧡
A beautiful conclusion to an absolutely life changing, wonderful series. I couldn’t have asked for a better ending for this beautiful couple, and their beautiful family if I had written it myself. This book and the ending were absolutely stunning, and I’m still struggling to put into words how much these books and these characters mean to me. This review will purposely be vague, because unless you read these stories, you’ll never truly understand that magic that is KORT.
Ainsley and Gage have a twisted past. Love at first meeting, a quick, brief relationship. A love that was pushed to its limits and beyond. Until the day Gage disappears, and Ainsley buries him for good.
Over a decade later, Ainsley is on the run, and who does she run straight, smack dab into? Gage of course. And they’re both FURIOUS. These two HATE each other. Cannot stand to even be in the same room with one another, but they both remember. They remember the good times, the hard times, and it’s quite literally impossible to stay away from your one true enemy.
This book broke me in the best of ways. I was completely powerless when it came to putting these two down. As usual with Brandy, each chapter was jam packed with excitement, adventure, and sweet, tender moments. HEALING. This book healed me, healed Gage, healed Ains, and healed their now completed Found Family. I felt torn apart and out back together by the end of this book, and man.. was the ending sweet. Perfect. Soul cleansing.
As usual, Brandy brings the SPICE. Deliciously memorable spice. Spice that will have you SWEATING, clutching your pearls (if anyone still wears those), and bringing all new levels of smut to the table. We’re talking IUD removal, Creamsicles, Pastry’s, and Towels that aren’t for sleeping on. 😏 MEMORABLE. HOT AS HECK. UNFORGETTABLE.
I’m so sad to be done with these characters, but the next series was beautifully set up in this last book, and now i can’t wait! Bring on the Noire Brothers. I’m ready to be hurt again.. maybe.
I am still a Liam & Celeste girlie for life. No one can touch Carving Graves for me. But Gage and Ainsley are hot on their heels. Brandy truly saved the best book for last, and I’m so in awe of her writing and the absolute chokehold it has on me, time and time again.
February 27, 2025
“My heart. My soul. My DNA. No me without her.”
Brandy's writing style is stunning. The imagery she creates is nothing short of perfection. Gage is my favourite and his story couldn't have been better. The KORT series is now complete and if you need me, I will be in mourning for the foreseeable future. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend
Brandy's writing style is stunning. The imagery she creates is nothing short of perfection. Gage is my favourite and his story couldn't have been better. The KORT series is now complete and if you need me, I will be in mourning for the foreseeable future. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend
April 16, 2025
I’m absolutely obsessed with this series and all of the audiobooks, so I was beyond excited to get my hands on Charring Bones. It’s the perfect conclusion to the KORT series, following Gage and Ainsley as they navigate a second chance at love after being torn apart by circumstances and outside interference. With a past full of heartbreak and hidden truths, their journey to healing is raw, emotional, and deeply moving, perfectly balanced with suspense and spice. I fell completely in love with their story, and honestly, I’m not sure I’ll ever get over it.
Jacob Morgan and Samantha Brentmoor were absolutely incredible as the narrators. They truly became Gage and Ainsley, bringing all the tension, heartache, and passion between them to life flawlessly.
While you definitely should start at the beginning with Burning Ivy, trust me you won't regret it. Every single audiobook in this series is a must listen!
Thank you, Brandy Hynes for the ALC.
Jacob Morgan and Samantha Brentmoor were absolutely incredible as the narrators. They truly became Gage and Ainsley, bringing all the tension, heartache, and passion between them to life flawlessly.
While you definitely should start at the beginning with Burning Ivy, trust me you won't regret it. Every single audiobook in this series is a must listen!
Thank you, Brandy Hynes for the ALC.
July 15, 2025
4.25 stars ...
And that's a wrap! This series has had me in a chokehold for the past few weeks, and I'm in awe of the story Brandy Hynes has woven.
This is the last book in the series, with Gage finally taking centre stage. And his story was just as tragic as the rest. What I've loved about this series is that all the books have revolved around different kinds of loves and sacrifices. With Gage's story, we glimpse at a love that started before he became the man he is today, after being erased by the govt. And the repercussions that come with it. And its beauty with hella lot of pain. Ainsley, Gage's lady love, was just.... Her story was full of pain. Her patience and resilience in the face of all she had endured were commendable. And their love !!!! I just loved their push and pull in the beginning, but when it finally reached its boiling-over point after all the simmering, it was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
The epilogue felt bittersweet and also a bit incomplete, but that is due to the story being far from over. However, it was beautiful nonetheless.
Definitely looking forward to the Noire brothers' series!
And that's a wrap! This series has had me in a chokehold for the past few weeks, and I'm in awe of the story Brandy Hynes has woven.
This is the last book in the series, with Gage finally taking centre stage. And his story was just as tragic as the rest. What I've loved about this series is that all the books have revolved around different kinds of loves and sacrifices. With Gage's story, we glimpse at a love that started before he became the man he is today, after being erased by the govt. And the repercussions that come with it. And its beauty with hella lot of pain. Ainsley, Gage's lady love, was just.... Her story was full of pain. Her patience and resilience in the face of all she had endured were commendable. And their love !!!! I just loved their push and pull in the beginning, but when it finally reached its boiling-over point after all the simmering, it was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
The epilogue felt bittersweet and also a bit incomplete, but that is due to the story being far from over. However, it was beautiful nonetheless.
Definitely looking forward to the Noire brothers' series!
June 24, 2025
This entire series was amazing, BUT THIS BOOK?! The cherry on top. I loved this one the most for sure. Gage and Ainsley were my FAVVV.
These books all start off by saying they could be read as standalone, but the author really believes you need to read them all for the full picture, and I totally agree. The characters, the story, the little details, they all really show through each book. Watching how it all grows and comes together was perfection.
This was full of the dark mafia vibes that I look forward to reading about. Such a perfect ending to this series. I will admit that the last chapter or two threw me. I did see that the "missing years" can be found in Brandy's new series about the Noire Brothers, AND I CANNOT WAITTTTT.
Bang! by AJR?! Are you kidding?!
What to expect:
Dual POV
Mafia/Secret Society
Jealous/Possessive hero
Action/ Suspense
Second Chance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced proximity
Trauma healing
Obsessed MMC
Strong FMC
Found family
Touch her and unalive
Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Spice
Band of Brothers
I AM SCREAMING BECAUSE THIS WAS SO FING GOODDDDD.
Please read it. Thank you.
These books all start off by saying they could be read as standalone, but the author really believes you need to read them all for the full picture, and I totally agree. The characters, the story, the little details, they all really show through each book. Watching how it all grows and comes together was perfection.
This was full of the dark mafia vibes that I look forward to reading about. Such a perfect ending to this series. I will admit that the last chapter or two threw me. I did see that the "missing years" can be found in Brandy's new series about the Noire Brothers, AND I CANNOT WAITTTTT.
Bang! by AJR?! Are you kidding?!
What to expect:
Dual POV
Mafia/Secret Society
Jealous/Possessive hero
Action/ Suspense
Second Chance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced proximity
Trauma healing
Obsessed MMC
Strong FMC
Found family
Touch her and unalive
Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Spice
Band of Brothers
I AM SCREAMING BECAUSE THIS WAS SO FING GOODDDDD.
Please read it. Thank you.
March 12, 2025
You’re either the hunter or the hunted, the lion or the lamb. Which one will you be?
The last installment, y’all. I can’t believe this series is over. this was a ride that I thoroughly enjoyed every second of.
“Don’t worry, Wicked. I’ll be the kind of pain you crave.”
“You should worry, Big Guy. I’ll be the kind of pain that scars.”
Gage—throughout the series, I got more and more drawn to him, and I wanted to read about him so badly. He’s mysterious, quiet, and keeps to himself, and now I finally know why. His past really played a role in how he turned out, and when his past comes crashing into him, the past that he hates, the past that scarred him, he's forced to face the one thing he never could let go of. Her.
Ainsley—it’s safe to say I didn’t expect her to be like this. She has a bite, a vicious fire, so wicked she could end anyone who hurt what she cares for. She’s such a powerful character, and even in her weakest moments, she still keeps her head up and fights whatever comes her way.
These two have been through hell. Lied to, manipulated, robbed of their happiness until there was no hope left, until Ainsley stumbled across the one person she thought she would never see again. But he despises her, loathes her, wants to ruin her… or does he?
“You are mine, Wicked. Until my dying breath. Mine to hate. Mine to shelter. Mine to fuck. On my goddamn leash. You left me once, but history will not repeat itself.”
So many truths come to light over their time together. Gage never truly forgot his Wicked, even when he convinced himself he hated her. And Ainsley, she never stopped fighting through every battle to avenge him and reclaim the things they were robbed of. She never thought she could have this new life where she is happy, where she is the lioness and never the lamb, the hunter and never the hunted. In this life, she has a new family that loves and cherishes her, every single one of them.
Wills and Rena, because she’s their Orange. Ty, the first to truly understand her. Celeste, her first real friend. Liam, who was wary of her at first but eventually opened up. Iva, the girl she once hated but grew to adore. And finally, Gage—the man who fought for her, who burned the world down for her. and was ready to scorch, stack, and salt everyone who hurt her. Their relationship was everything. Darker, spicier, more intense than any of the others, and absolutely unforgettable.
The plot—my god, so many twists. Unexpected and kept me on my toes. I loved seeing how all of them played a part in KORT, and I’m so ready to see more of the Noire’s brothers because, hot damn, I’ll miss these guys.
This series will forever have a place in my heart.
I can’t wait to read more of Brandy’s work because it’s absolutely mind-blowing!
★★★★.5
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia/Secret Society
🩶 Jealous/Possessive Hero
🖤Action/Suspense
🩶 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Second Chance
🩶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Trauma Healing
🩶 Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
🩶 Found Family
🖤 Touch her and Die
🩶 Morally Gray MMC and FMC
The last installment, y’all. I can’t believe this series is over. this was a ride that I thoroughly enjoyed every second of.
“Don’t worry, Wicked. I’ll be the kind of pain you crave.”
“You should worry, Big Guy. I’ll be the kind of pain that scars.”
Gage—throughout the series, I got more and more drawn to him, and I wanted to read about him so badly. He’s mysterious, quiet, and keeps to himself, and now I finally know why. His past really played a role in how he turned out, and when his past comes crashing into him, the past that he hates, the past that scarred him, he's forced to face the one thing he never could let go of. Her.
Ainsley—it’s safe to say I didn’t expect her to be like this. She has a bite, a vicious fire, so wicked she could end anyone who hurt what she cares for. She’s such a powerful character, and even in her weakest moments, she still keeps her head up and fights whatever comes her way.
These two have been through hell. Lied to, manipulated, robbed of their happiness until there was no hope left, until Ainsley stumbled across the one person she thought she would never see again. But he despises her, loathes her, wants to ruin her… or does he?
“You are mine, Wicked. Until my dying breath. Mine to hate. Mine to shelter. Mine to fuck. On my goddamn leash. You left me once, but history will not repeat itself.”
So many truths come to light over their time together. Gage never truly forgot his Wicked, even when he convinced himself he hated her. And Ainsley, she never stopped fighting through every battle to avenge him and reclaim the things they were robbed of. She never thought she could have this new life where she is happy, where she is the lioness and never the lamb, the hunter and never the hunted. In this life, she has a new family that loves and cherishes her, every single one of them.
Wills and Rena, because she’s their Orange. Ty, the first to truly understand her. Celeste, her first real friend. Liam, who was wary of her at first but eventually opened up. Iva, the girl she once hated but grew to adore. And finally, Gage—the man who fought for her, who burned the world down for her. and was ready to scorch, stack, and salt everyone who hurt her. Their relationship was everything. Darker, spicier, more intense than any of the others, and absolutely unforgettable.
The plot—my god, so many twists. Unexpected and kept me on my toes. I loved seeing how all of them played a part in KORT, and I’m so ready to see more of the Noire’s brothers because, hot damn, I’ll miss these guys.
This series will forever have a place in my heart.
I can’t wait to read more of Brandy’s work because it’s absolutely mind-blowing!
★★★★.5
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia/Secret Society
🩶 Jealous/Possessive Hero
🖤Action/Suspense
🩶 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Second Chance
🩶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Trauma Healing
🩶 Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
🩶 Found Family
🖤 Touch her and Die
🩶 Morally Gray MMC and FMC
August 23, 2025
4.75⭐️ for the audiobook. Samantha Brentwoor and Jacob Morgan were brilliant as usual in duet narration.
I’m devastated the series is over 😭 I enjoyed it so much. I can’t recommend it enough. Pretty sure this series has my favourite found family ever. Can’t wait to read the spin-off series about the Noire brothers.
I’m devastated the series is over 😭 I enjoyed it so much. I can’t recommend it enough. Pretty sure this series has my favourite found family ever. Can’t wait to read the spin-off series about the Noire brothers.
June 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ The MMC’s in this books were 👌.
I actually thought Gage would be the least appealing mmc but omg he was my absolute favourite!
All the FMC’s were good too but again I think Ainsley was my favourite.
I actually thought Gage would be the least appealing mmc but omg he was my absolute favourite!
All the FMC’s were good too but again I think Ainsley was my favourite.
February 27, 2025
Welcome back to KORT! I have been dying to be back within the walls of this entire family and I am so sad to see this series come to an end. But DANG did Brandy leave the best for last! Absolutely ahhmazing. Out fucking standing. Infinity stars babyyy. 🖤
Gage and Ainsley are pure chaos and I loved every single second of their story. Talk a love in a past lifetime. These two are the definition of my past life. Absolutely beautiful and tragic all at the same time!
Gage. My big guy. My early morning baker. My Josh. This man came so dang close to taking the top spot in my heart but Wells holds strong. (I’m forever a Wells babe) Gage has always been a huge side character for me. I’ve loved him from the very beginning. Gage has always come off as this big man who hates all women and it was so incredible to see why. Ainsley has always had his heart and he never took it back, and watching him find her again and love her again was soo god damn beautiful.
Ainsley. My Ains. My Skittles. My Goldilocks. My Badass Mafia Princess. My Wicked. I don’t even have the words to describe how much i love this girl. This girl has a “I don’t give a fuck” vibe and I loved every second of see her act and ask questions later. This girl had such a rough go once she had to let go of Gage and it was so tragic to see her story unfold. I hated the people who hurt her and was so dang happy to see her ready to burn the world. Watching Ains be able to trust and love again and accept the family was so dang ahhmazing. I loved watching her be jealous of the life Gage has built, her hating Ivy made me giggle so hard. But watching her break down her own walls to love Gage again and be loved by the entire family has my heart melting.
Now we know Brandy is a spice queen but this one..this one was spicy and so heartwarming. Every single time these two had a spicy scene it was also met with a gut wrenching heart to heart. Absolutely ahhmazing. And the MOUTH on this man!! I was melting and sweating all at the same time. All I will say is CREAMSICLE. That is all. ❤️🔥
Y’all know I’m obsessed with a found family and these character will forever be within my heart. I love every single one of them. Each one has my heart for different reasons and I love them all individually and as a group. I will miss them so god damn much. (I’m not crying, you’re crying)
Anyways I could go on and on about this entire series. Sooo my DM’s are open for anyone picking up this series for the first time or just someone who wants to gush about all these characters!
To my girls who have been here since the beginning of the KORT series, I hope you love this series as much as I do and I hope all your days are orange. 🧡
♾️⭐️
🖤 Mafia/Secret Society
🤍 Jealous + Possessive MMC
🖤 Second Chance
🤍 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Forced Proximity
🤍 Obsessed MMC
🖤 Strong Ass FMC
🤍 Found Family
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
Brandy my dear. I am so honored to be on your street team and I CANNOT wait for what’s next! ILY! 🖤
Gage and Ainsley are pure chaos and I loved every single second of their story. Talk a love in a past lifetime. These two are the definition of my past life. Absolutely beautiful and tragic all at the same time!
Gage. My big guy. My early morning baker. My Josh. This man came so dang close to taking the top spot in my heart but Wells holds strong. (I’m forever a Wells babe) Gage has always been a huge side character for me. I’ve loved him from the very beginning. Gage has always come off as this big man who hates all women and it was so incredible to see why. Ainsley has always had his heart and he never took it back, and watching him find her again and love her again was soo god damn beautiful.
Ainsley. My Ains. My Skittles. My Goldilocks. My Badass Mafia Princess. My Wicked. I don’t even have the words to describe how much i love this girl. This girl has a “I don’t give a fuck” vibe and I loved every second of see her act and ask questions later. This girl had such a rough go once she had to let go of Gage and it was so tragic to see her story unfold. I hated the people who hurt her and was so dang happy to see her ready to burn the world. Watching Ains be able to trust and love again and accept the family was so dang ahhmazing. I loved watching her be jealous of the life Gage has built, her hating Ivy made me giggle so hard. But watching her break down her own walls to love Gage again and be loved by the entire family has my heart melting.
Now we know Brandy is a spice queen but this one..this one was spicy and so heartwarming. Every single time these two had a spicy scene it was also met with a gut wrenching heart to heart. Absolutely ahhmazing. And the MOUTH on this man!! I was melting and sweating all at the same time. All I will say is CREAMSICLE. That is all. ❤️🔥
Y’all know I’m obsessed with a found family and these character will forever be within my heart. I love every single one of them. Each one has my heart for different reasons and I love them all individually and as a group. I will miss them so god damn much. (I’m not crying, you’re crying)
Anyways I could go on and on about this entire series. Sooo my DM’s are open for anyone picking up this series for the first time or just someone who wants to gush about all these characters!
To my girls who have been here since the beginning of the KORT series, I hope you love this series as much as I do and I hope all your days are orange. 🧡
♾️⭐️
🖤 Mafia/Secret Society
🤍 Jealous + Possessive MMC
🖤 Second Chance
🤍 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Forced Proximity
🤍 Obsessed MMC
🖤 Strong Ass FMC
🤍 Found Family
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
Brandy my dear. I am so honored to be on your street team and I CANNOT wait for what’s next! ILY! 🖤
June 17, 2025
ALC review for Charring Bones by Brandy Hynes
Thanks to Brandy and Valentine PR for the ALC opportunity!
Featured tropes: romantic suspense, second chance, enemies to lovers, secret society, forced proximity, touch her and die MMC, found family, trauma healing
Trigger warnings: I don't want to give away any spoilers but the author has a comprehensive list of trigger warnings on her website. Check it out if you have any triggers that might be set off in a dark romance world.
Review: 5/5
I...I have no words. I'm legitimately at a loss for words as to how to capture my feelings for the conclusion of the KORT series. I couldn't tell you the last series I read where it was just banger after banger for each book. Each book hits so good and each MMC and FMC are such strong, badass characters. And Gage and Ainsley are no different. I loved, loved, LOVED the second chance aspect. It was so fun to finally merge an "old life" and a "new life." And for it to be our grumpy boy Gage with the girl we've heard him griping about for three books? Perfect choice. Once again, the whole plot was fascinating to journey through and keeping up with the twists and turns kept me engaged. I'm feral for the Noire series and hoping it will fill in the gaps we're left with at the end. It absolutely made sense to me that there were crumbs left sitting to be cleaned up in the next series. Can't wait for the Noire brothers to get their chance in the spotlight.
The narration:
Can we get anymore powerhouse than Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan? I think not. Truly, what else is there to say? They're both amazing and once again crush it. Jacob Morgan was really the perfect Gage and Samantha gives such depth to her characters. 10/10. No notes.
I'm so sad KORT is over but I cannot wait dive back into the world with the Noire brothers. I suspect we won't see much of the KORT group but I'm confident Brandy will be paving the way for all the good stuff and leaving little Easter eggs along the way. Look out NOLA. We're movin' in.
Thanks to Brandy and Valentine PR for the ALC opportunity!
Featured tropes: romantic suspense, second chance, enemies to lovers, secret society, forced proximity, touch her and die MMC, found family, trauma healing
Trigger warnings: I don't want to give away any spoilers but the author has a comprehensive list of trigger warnings on her website. Check it out if you have any triggers that might be set off in a dark romance world.
Review: 5/5
I...I have no words. I'm legitimately at a loss for words as to how to capture my feelings for the conclusion of the KORT series. I couldn't tell you the last series I read where it was just banger after banger for each book. Each book hits so good and each MMC and FMC are such strong, badass characters. And Gage and Ainsley are no different. I loved, loved, LOVED the second chance aspect. It was so fun to finally merge an "old life" and a "new life." And for it to be our grumpy boy Gage with the girl we've heard him griping about for three books? Perfect choice. Once again, the whole plot was fascinating to journey through and keeping up with the twists and turns kept me engaged. I'm feral for the Noire series and hoping it will fill in the gaps we're left with at the end. It absolutely made sense to me that there were crumbs left sitting to be cleaned up in the next series. Can't wait for the Noire brothers to get their chance in the spotlight.
The narration:
Can we get anymore powerhouse than Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan? I think not. Truly, what else is there to say? They're both amazing and once again crush it. Jacob Morgan was really the perfect Gage and Samantha gives such depth to her characters. 10/10. No notes.
I'm so sad KORT is over but I cannot wait dive back into the world with the Noire brothers. I suspect we won't see much of the KORT group but I'm confident Brandy will be paving the way for all the good stuff and leaving little Easter eggs along the way. Look out NOLA. We're movin' in.
February 25, 2025
Words. I’m trying to find to right words for this book, actually for this entire series. It’s all just simply incredible and such a bittersweet moment. I will never stop talking about this series and how great it is. Charring Bones was perfection. Such a great ending to this entire series. Am I sad? Absolutely. Did I sob during chapter 35, 100%. If you know me at all, you know I get STRONGLY attached to characters in books. Strongly.
Having this be and an ending to the series, hurts with how much I LOVE these books. Brandy Hynes undoubtedly knows how to write the perfect book boyfriend, the best badass fmc, and just paint you an incredible picture of the whole world in your head when reading her books. All four books live in my head rent free and I will forever praise this sweet author and her books.
I jumped into this series as an ARC reader for Carving Graves after finding Brandy and falling in love with Burning Ivy. From there I have grown to know Brandy and bond over Dermot Kennedy and obviously the love of her writing. It’s poetic and beautiful. Thank you Brandy for writing such great books and being one of the sweetest people I have gotten the pleasure of talking to. I’m so excited to watch you grow as an author and see where this next series takes you, I already know it will be just as good. Thank you for allowing me to continue to read your book early and as always loving Dermot Kennedy as much as I do.
In the words of the girls “If you’re going nowhere, we’re coming with you.”
Meaning wherever you go in your writing career, i know me and everyone will follow! 🖤
The K.O.R.T Series
🔥Burning Ivy
♠️Carving Graves
🌙Tracing Scars (my personal favorite)
💀Charring Bones
What to expect in book 4:
🖤Mafia/Secret Society
✨Jealous/Possessive hero
🖤Action/ Suspense
✨Second Chance
🖤Enemies to Lovers
✨Forced proximity
🖤Trauma healing
✨Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
✨Found by family
🖤Touch her and
✨Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Happy Reading, Friends 🫶🏼
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reads_by_pa...
Having this be and an ending to the series, hurts with how much I LOVE these books. Brandy Hynes undoubtedly knows how to write the perfect book boyfriend, the best badass fmc, and just paint you an incredible picture of the whole world in your head when reading her books. All four books live in my head rent free and I will forever praise this sweet author and her books.
I jumped into this series as an ARC reader for Carving Graves after finding Brandy and falling in love with Burning Ivy. From there I have grown to know Brandy and bond over Dermot Kennedy and obviously the love of her writing. It’s poetic and beautiful. Thank you Brandy for writing such great books and being one of the sweetest people I have gotten the pleasure of talking to. I’m so excited to watch you grow as an author and see where this next series takes you, I already know it will be just as good. Thank you for allowing me to continue to read your book early and as always loving Dermot Kennedy as much as I do.
In the words of the girls “If you’re going nowhere, we’re coming with you.”
Meaning wherever you go in your writing career, i know me and everyone will follow! 🖤
The K.O.R.T Series
🔥Burning Ivy
♠️Carving Graves
🌙Tracing Scars (my personal favorite)
💀Charring Bones
What to expect in book 4:
🖤Mafia/Secret Society
✨Jealous/Possessive hero
🖤Action/ Suspense
✨Second Chance
🖤Enemies to Lovers
✨Forced proximity
🖤Trauma healing
✨Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
✨Found by family
🖤Touch her and
✨Morally Gray MMC and FMC
Happy Reading, Friends 🫶🏼
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reads_by_pa...
November 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
I have no idea what Brandy did with this book, but wow I am impressed. This was the best book of the whole series. I had my ups and downs with the series. I loved book #2 and #4 the most and found book #1 and #3 to be weaker unfortunately. My issues were primarily with her writing style and choices vs the actual story and characters. Her strength is definitely in the character work and crafting an interesting story. But it was often bogged down with the writing style, over descriptive and longer than they needed to be.
However, book #4 while long did not feel weighed down in all of that. It had a really solid story and two amazing MCs that brought the whole story together. It featured Gage and Ainsley which are my favourite couple and characters of the whole series. They had history and a lot of trauma to go with that history, yet it didn’t feel like the story was stuck underneath all that trauma and issues, unlike what she did with book #3.
The spice in this one was the best of the whole series. They were intense and each moment between them was memorable. They were just a great duo and had such a fun dynamic.
This book was an almost 4.75���️ rating but I was disappointed with the ending. For a storyteller that really dragged out a lot of her books she sure as hell just rushed the ending and it didn’t really make sense. It felt unresolved like the whole aspect of the series is based around KORT and yet KORT isn’t mentioned and is just gone like huh? Not sure why she made that choice to end the series like that.
Overall a hit and miss series but I still enjoyed the characters and the journey. Also the found family aspect really was solid in the last book which made it very enjoyable.
I have no idea what Brandy did with this book, but wow I am impressed. This was the best book of the whole series. I had my ups and downs with the series. I loved book #2 and #4 the most and found book #1 and #3 to be weaker unfortunately. My issues were primarily with her writing style and choices vs the actual story and characters. Her strength is definitely in the character work and crafting an interesting story. But it was often bogged down with the writing style, over descriptive and longer than they needed to be.
However, book #4 while long did not feel weighed down in all of that. It had a really solid story and two amazing MCs that brought the whole story together. It featured Gage and Ainsley which are my favourite couple and characters of the whole series. They had history and a lot of trauma to go with that history, yet it didn’t feel like the story was stuck underneath all that trauma and issues, unlike what she did with book #3.
The spice in this one was the best of the whole series. They were intense and each moment between them was memorable. They were just a great duo and had such a fun dynamic.
This book was an almost 4.75���️ rating but I was disappointed with the ending. For a storyteller that really dragged out a lot of her books she sure as hell just rushed the ending and it didn’t really make sense. It felt unresolved like the whole aspect of the series is based around KORT and yet KORT isn’t mentioned and is just gone like huh? Not sure why she made that choice to end the series like that.
Overall a hit and miss series but I still enjoyed the characters and the journey. Also the found family aspect really was solid in the last book which made it very enjoyable.
February 19, 2025
OH MY HEART IS FULL!!! The boy with amber eyes found his happiness with his wicked!
This book is jammed packed with goodness! The PLOT thickens! Shit hits the fan!
You get a glimpse of everyone’s HEA! This found family is EVERYTHING!!!
Brandy Hynes makes you feel apart of the clan! You feel connected to each and everyone of them. You get their sense of humor and love the fierce FMCs that at the end of the day would do anything for you!
I don’t want to go into detail but YOU MUST READ THIS SERIES!!!
You’re going to love them as much as I do!
Thank you Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for giving me the opportunity to read in advance!
This book is jammed packed with goodness! The PLOT thickens! Shit hits the fan!
You get a glimpse of everyone’s HEA! This found family is EVERYTHING!!!
Brandy Hynes makes you feel apart of the clan! You feel connected to each and everyone of them. You get their sense of humor and love the fierce FMCs that at the end of the day would do anything for you!
I don’t want to go into detail but YOU MUST READ THIS SERIES!!!
You’re going to love them as much as I do!
Thank you Brandy Hynes and Wordsmith Publicity for giving me the opportunity to read in advance!
June 23, 2025
I loved this series so much. Gage's story really started with a bang. Ainsley is the most tortured heroine of the series and her story was devastating to read. She dealt with so much. I loved watching Ainsley and Gage reconnect and find their way back to each other.
October 27, 2025
Charring Bones by Brandy Hynes
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan
Genre: Dark Romance
📖- 5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 4
READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
ALC Audiobook Review
Charring Bones is book four in The KORT Series and is now my favorite of the series. I am very aware that I have said after each book, but I REALLY mean it now. The narrators were part of this choice; however, Gage’s and Ainsley’s story was so captivating, I could not stop listening to this book. Voice actors Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan nailed it with this one. As I’ve mentioned before, if Jacob narrates it, I’m going to love it. He just has this way with this tone that cracks me up.
As I mentioned, this is Ainsley and Gage’s story. Their relationship has a different spin on it than in the previous books as they were once in love. Horrible and I mean horrible circumstances tore them apart and as we know, Gage became a miserable giant who loved to bake. And totally my favorite. The fact that he is described as the same size as The Rock, yet he loves to bake banana bread and cookies from scratch makes me adore him so much. Ainsley was a tough nut to crack but I didn’t blame her one bit. Honestly, I loved her from the beginning and that is unusual for me. She was witty, a smartass and tough as nails. She knew how to get to Gage, and I respected her holding her ground with him and with KORT.
Their story was the most emotional, the spiciest and most entertaining and I could not stop listening to this audio. I’m a little sad the series has come to an end because it’s been a wild ride, but I loved the conclusion of the team.
Do I recommend? Absolutel
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan
Genre: Dark Romance
📖- 5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 4
READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
ALC Audiobook Review
Charring Bones is book four in The KORT Series and is now my favorite of the series. I am very aware that I have said after each book, but I REALLY mean it now. The narrators were part of this choice; however, Gage’s and Ainsley’s story was so captivating, I could not stop listening to this book. Voice actors Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan nailed it with this one. As I’ve mentioned before, if Jacob narrates it, I’m going to love it. He just has this way with this tone that cracks me up.
As I mentioned, this is Ainsley and Gage’s story. Their relationship has a different spin on it than in the previous books as they were once in love. Horrible and I mean horrible circumstances tore them apart and as we know, Gage became a miserable giant who loved to bake. And totally my favorite. The fact that he is described as the same size as The Rock, yet he loves to bake banana bread and cookies from scratch makes me adore him so much. Ainsley was a tough nut to crack but I didn’t blame her one bit. Honestly, I loved her from the beginning and that is unusual for me. She was witty, a smartass and tough as nails. She knew how to get to Gage, and I respected her holding her ground with him and with KORT.
Their story was the most emotional, the spiciest and most entertaining and I could not stop listening to this audio. I’m a little sad the series has come to an end because it’s been a wild ride, but I loved the conclusion of the team.
Do I recommend? Absolutel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2025
Oof.
This book had real potential with its dark, gritty setup and compelling characters, but it got buried under an overwhelming amount of smut. With a bit more balance between heat and substance, this could’ve been a standout series—but it left me frustrated and wanting more from the plot than the bedroom. So much so that I wasn’t just questioning the book — I was questioning myself for rating Carving Graves, a 5-star read. This series peaked at book 2 and that’s unfortunate.
This book had real potential with its dark, gritty setup and compelling characters, but it got buried under an overwhelming amount of smut. With a bit more balance between heat and substance, this could’ve been a standout series—but it left me frustrated and wanting more from the plot than the bedroom. So much so that I wasn’t just questioning the book — I was questioning myself for rating Carving Graves, a 5-star read. This series peaked at book 2 and that’s unfortunate.
May 27, 2025
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️ | 5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Mafia/Secret Society
- Dark Romance
- Enemies to Lovers
- Strong & Fierce FMC
- Morally Grey & Possessive MMC
- Second Chance Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Trauma Healing
- High Stakes, High Emotion
- Touch Her & 💀
- Suspense
- Found Family
Charring Bones is the fourth and final book in the KORT series. The books in this series are best read in order, as each one contains significant world-building and character development. I can't even begin to explain how much I loved this book. I truly didn't know what to expect from Gage, but the way this man came in and completely stole my heart has me GAGGED. I seriously could not put this book down. Gage is the ultimate broody, closed-off guy with a soft side he tries (and fails) to hide. Ainsley is a fiery and fearless badass who gives Gage hell in the best way. She turns his life completely upside down, and I loved every second of it. These two together? I can't even handle it! Their chemistry was electric, and their banter was so ridiculously good. The tension was thick, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic between these two was strong.
I love that these characters have so much depth. Ainsley and Gage have complicated pasts, and I loved watching them heal. They had both been through a lot, and it wasn't easy to work it all out, but they fought hard for happiness. I love the KORT crew so much! The found family element in this series is top tier, and I love how they all will do absolutely anything to protect each other. Brandy's writing is phenomenal and has kept me on my toes with unpredictable twists and turns. I’m so sad this series is over, but Charring Bones was the perfect way to wrap it up. I cannot wait for the Noire Brothers! If you’re into dark romance stories with morally grey characters, intense emotions, and a found family that will steal your heart, this series is a must-read.
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and I can't imagine anyone else as Ainsley and Gage. Samantha and Jacob ARE Ainsley and Gage. They brought all the delicious tension, heartbreak, and chemistry between the characters to life so well. Charring Bones is a very emotional story, and Samantha and Jacob's performances made me FEEL everything. This was an unforgettable immersive listening experience! I highly recommend reading and listening to this entire series in tandem.
Thanks to Brandy Hynes and Bluenose Audio for the review opportunity. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect:
- Mafia/Secret Society
- Dark Romance
- Enemies to Lovers
- Strong & Fierce FMC
- Morally Grey & Possessive MMC
- Second Chance Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Trauma Healing
- High Stakes, High Emotion
- Touch Her & 💀
- Suspense
- Found Family
Charring Bones is the fourth and final book in the KORT series. The books in this series are best read in order, as each one contains significant world-building and character development. I can't even begin to explain how much I loved this book. I truly didn't know what to expect from Gage, but the way this man came in and completely stole my heart has me GAGGED. I seriously could not put this book down. Gage is the ultimate broody, closed-off guy with a soft side he tries (and fails) to hide. Ainsley is a fiery and fearless badass who gives Gage hell in the best way. She turns his life completely upside down, and I loved every second of it. These two together? I can't even handle it! Their chemistry was electric, and their banter was so ridiculously good. The tension was thick, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic between these two was strong.
I love that these characters have so much depth. Ainsley and Gage have complicated pasts, and I loved watching them heal. They had both been through a lot, and it wasn't easy to work it all out, but they fought hard for happiness. I love the KORT crew so much! The found family element in this series is top tier, and I love how they all will do absolutely anything to protect each other. Brandy's writing is phenomenal and has kept me on my toes with unpredictable twists and turns. I’m so sad this series is over, but Charring Bones was the perfect way to wrap it up. I cannot wait for the Noire Brothers! If you’re into dark romance stories with morally grey characters, intense emotions, and a found family that will steal your heart, this series is a must-read.
Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Jacob Morgan perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and I can't imagine anyone else as Ainsley and Gage. Samantha and Jacob ARE Ainsley and Gage. They brought all the delicious tension, heartbreak, and chemistry between the characters to life so well. Charring Bones is a very emotional story, and Samantha and Jacob's performances made me FEEL everything. This was an unforgettable immersive listening experience! I highly recommend reading and listening to this entire series in tandem.
Thanks to Brandy Hynes and Bluenose Audio for the review opportunity. Opinions expressed are my own.
April 23, 2025
✨"This"-he seethes…."is why I hate you more than I ever have."
There's something worse than anger lacing his voice. Brokenness—a far harder feat to overcome.
"Because all these years later, you still feel like fking home."
✨The. Way I am. In. My. Feels!!🖤🖤 ♾️
Over the last week I’ve been listening to Charring Bones, the 4th and final book in the KORT series and my heart, oh my heart LOVES these characters!!
✨I have been so looking forward to to Gage and Ainsley’s book, all while not being emotionally ready to say goodbye.
I’ve laughed, had ALL the feet kick moments 👣, swooned, ACHED, felt consumed by the HEAT 🔥and have LOVED them so! These characters are raw, emotionally complex, richly developed, and their story is just beautiful.
✨And this duet style audiobook is fantastic with both of these narrators giving phenomenal performances!! 🎧🖤❤️
Charring Bones is full of so many tropes I love, secret society, second chance romance, immaculate found family, and all the dark romance vibes! There is so much I want to say about this story and series...all the feels, and tears, the twists and turns, and the love. This author's stories have filled my heart with endless love!!
For the love of all things, add this series asap!
There's something worse than anger lacing his voice. Brokenness—a far harder feat to overcome.
"Because all these years later, you still feel like fking home."
✨The. Way I am. In. My. Feels!!🖤🖤 ♾️
Over the last week I’ve been listening to Charring Bones, the 4th and final book in the KORT series and my heart, oh my heart LOVES these characters!!
✨I have been so looking forward to to Gage and Ainsley’s book, all while not being emotionally ready to say goodbye.
I’ve laughed, had ALL the feet kick moments 👣, swooned, ACHED, felt consumed by the HEAT 🔥and have LOVED them so! These characters are raw, emotionally complex, richly developed, and their story is just beautiful.
✨And this duet style audiobook is fantastic with both of these narrators giving phenomenal performances!! 🎧🖤❤️
Charring Bones is full of so many tropes I love, secret society, second chance romance, immaculate found family, and all the dark romance vibes! There is so much I want to say about this story and series...all the feels, and tears, the twists and turns, and the love. This author's stories have filled my heart with endless love!!
For the love of all things, add this series asap!
June 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
Perfect ending to the Kort series. Brandy Hynes is an amazing writer. The mix of romance and mystery/suspense kept me engaged and entertained.
Ainsley shows up at the safe house after unaliving her mafia family, seeking to be erased. She’s surprised to run to find Gage, or Josh as she knew him in his past life, since she attended his funeral years earlier. Gage is mad and wants nothing to do with her since she broke his heart and her promise to wait for him. But Ainsley hasn't lived the great, happy life without him like he thought. (Please check TW)
The found family aspect of this series is special. The guys bond through their military experience, and then each of the ladies joining in. Ivy is the perfect matriarch. She provided support, strength, and confidence Ainsley needed.
The audiobook is narrated in Duet by Samantha Brentmoor& Teddy Hamilton. They are phenomenal.
🖤 second chance
❤️ romantic suspense
🖤 secret society
❤️ found family
🖤 plot driven (good balance with romance)
Thanks to Valentine PR for the ALC of the entire Kort series.
3 🌶
Perfect ending to the Kort series. Brandy Hynes is an amazing writer. The mix of romance and mystery/suspense kept me engaged and entertained.
Ainsley shows up at the safe house after unaliving her mafia family, seeking to be erased. She’s surprised to run to find Gage, or Josh as she knew him in his past life, since she attended his funeral years earlier. Gage is mad and wants nothing to do with her since she broke his heart and her promise to wait for him. But Ainsley hasn't lived the great, happy life without him like he thought. (Please check TW)
The found family aspect of this series is special. The guys bond through their military experience, and then each of the ladies joining in. Ivy is the perfect matriarch. She provided support, strength, and confidence Ainsley needed.
The audiobook is narrated in Duet by Samantha Brentmoor& Teddy Hamilton. They are phenomenal.
🖤 second chance
❤️ romantic suspense
🖤 secret society
❤️ found family
🖤 plot driven (good balance with romance)
Thanks to Valentine PR for the ALC of the entire Kort series.
March 5, 2025
4,5 stars
I liked the book and I didn't expect anything less. It has every recommendation from me.
—
Regardless of how awkward this is for me, the impact appears far
greater for Ainsley, who is blatantly choked up. Bare and breathtaking, her
posture exudes all the confidence she always carries. But there’s so much
more behind that. Her pain and insecurities and fears. She can’t hide those
from me. I know her heart, her eyes, the measure of her breaths and what
the rhythm means. And like I’ve told her again and again, I want everything
she is.
How could she doubt that I’d do anything for her? When will she get it?
It’s always been this way. She says jump, and I ask how high. Because I’m
under her spell? Whipped? Absolutely. And also because I trust that while
my girl delivers every wicked fantasy I’ve ever had, she’s also my heaven.
My home. My missing piece. Who wouldn’t jump for that? Or fucking
crawl?
I liked the book and I didn't expect anything less. It has every recommendation from me.
—
Regardless of how awkward this is for me, the impact appears far
greater for Ainsley, who is blatantly choked up. Bare and breathtaking, her
posture exudes all the confidence she always carries. But there’s so much
more behind that. Her pain and insecurities and fears. She can’t hide those
from me. I know her heart, her eyes, the measure of her breaths and what
the rhythm means. And like I’ve told her again and again, I want everything
she is.
How could she doubt that I’d do anything for her? When will she get it?
It’s always been this way. She says jump, and I ask how high. Because I’m
under her spell? Whipped? Absolutely. And also because I trust that while
my girl delivers every wicked fantasy I’ve ever had, she’s also my heaven.
My home. My missing piece. Who wouldn’t jump for that? Or fucking
crawl?
June 3, 2025
♾️🌟 What an ending to a series 🥹 Ainsley and Gage are true enemies to lovers. Like, she definitely didn’t stab him with a fork the first time they saw each other after all those years👀😂 They’re both morally grey (I’d almost say black lol) which I loved!! If I could use one word to describe this book it would be ✨trauma✨ because oh my god did they ever go through it. I cried multiple times🥹 Their ending is so hard earned and it made the epilogue all the more satisfying when you read about how much they had to get through to get there.
I can’t review this book without talking about the dirty DIRTY mouth on Gage🤭 The scenes in this book had me rethinking my tastes because what do you mean he used a hand held whisk to get her off??🥵 They were hot and heavy and I loved every minute!
This series will forever be a favourite of mine because of how much these characters mean to me🥹🖤 I can’t wait for the Noire Brothers to read more about this world Brandy has created!🖤
I can’t review this book without talking about the dirty DIRTY mouth on Gage🤭 The scenes in this book had me rethinking my tastes because what do you mean he used a hand held whisk to get her off??🥵 They were hot and heavy and I loved every minute!
This series will forever be a favourite of mine because of how much these characters mean to me🥹🖤 I can’t wait for the Noire Brothers to read more about this world Brandy has created!🖤
March 5, 2025
I’m officially overwhelmed with how I feel about this amazing series!! I’m not ok right now, but I mean that in the best way!! 🫶🏼 Charring Bones 🦴 has brought us a grand finale to the KORT series and what an amazing ride!! I have so many screenshots saved of quotes from this #book and scenes that will live rent free in my mind!! 🖤
…
Y’all need to read this series!! It has an amazing #foundfamily, crazy #suspense, great character building (so definitely start with Book 1: Burning Ivy), the banter is too good, the #spice is sooo nice, and there’s still so much more to come from Brandy!!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🖤Mafia/Secret Society
❤️🔥Jealous/Possessive hero
🖤Action/ Suspense
❤️🔥Second Chance
🖤Enemies to Lovers
❤️🔥Forced proximity
🖤Trauma healing
❤️🔥Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
❤️🔥Found family
🖤Touch her and 💀
❤️🔥Morally Gray MMC and FMC
…
Y’all need to read this series!! It has an amazing #foundfamily, crazy #suspense, great character building (so definitely start with Book 1: Burning Ivy), the banter is too good, the #spice is sooo nice, and there’s still so much more to come from Brandy!!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🖤Mafia/Secret Society
❤️🔥Jealous/Possessive hero
🖤Action/ Suspense
❤️🔥Second Chance
🖤Enemies to Lovers
❤️🔥Forced proximity
🖤Trauma healing
❤️🔥Obsessed MMC
🖤Strong FMC
❤️🔥Found family
🖤Touch her and 💀
❤️🔥Morally Gray MMC and FMC
February 28, 2025
This is the fourth book in this phenomenal series and what a thrilling and addictive page turner this is!
Gage is the head enforcer for the KORT, and he has been biding his time to get revenge on Ainsley and her family, Ainsley is on the run and finds herself where Gage wants her.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, danger, suspense, intrigue, enemies / lovers, vengeance, trauma, redemption, second chances, touch her and die vibes, morally gray, healing, survival, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and unpredictable page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Gage is the head enforcer for the KORT, and he has been biding his time to get revenge on Ainsley and her family, Ainsley is on the run and finds herself where Gage wants her.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, danger, suspense, intrigue, enemies / lovers, vengeance, trauma, redemption, second chances, touch her and die vibes, morally gray, healing, survival, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and unpredictable page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 11, 2025
love it so good
Ainsley and Gage where lied from the beginning they were betrayed and sold to the higgest bidder and they got hǔřt along the way physical mentally. after years not seeing each other and the lies they were told there only hate until the truths come out and it changes everything for them and when the past come for Them they have to rely on the Kort associatin to help them. Maybe Ainsley and Gage could get their happy ever after.
Ainsley had to sacrifice her happiness to save the man she loves when her father tells her she needs to be loyal to her family. She marry the the manthat father decide for her. For years she sffers æbse from her husband Gage want revenge from the Moreilles and he does accomplished it.
Ainsley and Gage where lied from the beginning they were betrayed and sold to the higgest bidder and they got hǔřt along the way physical mentally. after years not seeing each other and the lies they were told there only hate until the truths come out and it changes everything for them and when the past come for Them they have to rely on the Kort associatin to help them. Maybe Ainsley and Gage could get their happy ever after.
Ainsley had to sacrifice her happiness to save the man she loves when her father tells her she needs to be loyal to her family. She marry the the manthat father decide for her. For years she sffers æbse from her husband Gage want revenge from the Moreilles and he does accomplished it.
February 27, 2025
My love for Brandy and this series has only grown from book to book!!
Am I said it is over yes, but I think Gage and Ainsley made the perfect ending!
This is a second chance romance at its finest. This is also a great love/hate relationship. They hate that they still love each other!
Gage was everything I had been waiting for and more!
This book grabs you from the beginning and doesn't let go until the very last word.
The way Brandy writes these stores you go through an array of emotions, and this book was no different!
Out Today!!!
This is book four in The Kort Series and to get the entire story you need to read the series in order!
Am I said it is over yes, but I think Gage and Ainsley made the perfect ending!
This is a second chance romance at its finest. This is also a great love/hate relationship. They hate that they still love each other!
Gage was everything I had been waiting for and more!
This book grabs you from the beginning and doesn't let go until the very last word.
The way Brandy writes these stores you go through an array of emotions, and this book was no different!
Out Today!!!
This is book four in The Kort Series and to get the entire story you need to read the series in order!
August 8, 2025
Officially confirmed, I’m a series girl who loves found family, and this book (and the whole series) nails it. Gage has always been in his own lane, doing his own thing, and this was a really solid story for him.
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