King of Sin

Ruthless O'Rourkes #1

by Stella Moore

I gave him my innocence. Now he’s determined to claim all of me.

One night. That’s all I wanted. One night of passion, one night to taste the forbidden pleasures kept locked behind the doors of Charleston’s most notorious kink club.

He gave me that. And so much more.

But then I learned who he really was. Killian O’Rourke. Just the name is enough to strike fear into the hearts of the strongest men. The gorgeous mystery man I gave my virginity to is the ruthless leader of the Irish mob.

And one of my father’s closest friends.

It should have ended there. Except that one night tied me to Killian forever.

Now, he’ll stop at nothing to keep me and our child by his side. Even if it means burning the city we both love to the ground.

Genres: Dark Romance

392 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2026

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author
Strict Daddies
Sassy Brats
Steamy Happily Ever Afters
https://www.stellamooreromance.com/links

Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟, 3🌶️

I was not emotionally prepared for how intense this book was going to be.

This pulls you in right away with this addictive, high-stakes energy that makes it hard to step back. What starts off feeling like something simple quickly spirals into something heavier and way more consuming. Killian’s presence alone shifts the entire tone, and once he’s in, everything feels sharper, darker, and more gripping.

The dynamic between him and Aria is messy in a way that keeps you hooked. Their chemistry is intense and emotionally charged, with that constant push and pull that makes every interaction feel loaded. I didn’t always fully connect with Aria, as she felt a bit inconsistent at times, but their relationship still carried the story for me. When the bigger twists and higher stakes kicked in, especially with everything happening around them, it really pulled me back in.

It’s not perfect, but it’s one of those reads that keeps you entertained and slightly overwhelmed in the best way. There’s drama, tension, and enough emotional weight to keep you invested throughout. Some moments felt a little drawn out and I did want a bit more closure, but overall it was such a ride.

Safe to say I’ll be sticking around for the next book.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Stella Moore and The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[Emmy Wong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything you could possibly want in a dark mafia romance: a possessive, unhinged mmc who would burn the world for her, a feisty stubborn (and slightly bratty) fmc, love so incredibly forbidden it hurts just thinking about it, and amazing writing that had me laughing, crying and swooning all at once. Fathers best friend and a BDSM club, I think we’ve seen that one very many times, but this time he’s also the head of the Irish mafia and totally capable of kidnapping her for “protection”. The plot was great, the narrative was intense with quite a few amazing plot twists. I also love the whole strangers (to hates, or really she just hates him) to lovers arc, it was beautiful watching their love progress and their individual character development. Killian has my whole entire heart in his hands right now, becuase I love me a pleasure dom (but he also has a major daddy kink). For plot my gosh some of it was deadly emotional. For that insane and incredibly heartbreaking plot twist, I’m sorry but Ms Stella Moore you are paying for my therapy bill, because I was just DEVASTATED for my bright ray of sunshine. But on a lighter note, I’ll just say that Killian is just hilarious, I love a little humour in my dark romance books, even if this book isn’t a dark romcom, the writing and the characters were just hilarious. The O’Rourke family is amazing, funny and surprisingly don’t have too much trauma for a group of mafia kids, I’m so invested in this series now and can’t wait for Brody’s book! I give his a 5/5

[Marta Galdamez · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review:

Noooo!!! How did it just end like that?! I needed more drama, Killian literally just declared war!!! I’m assuming we’ll get more of that in Brody’s book… which, by the way, I need ASAP. And don’t even get me started on Brody and Goldie, from the moment we got that banter at the book signing, there were sparks. I’m already invested and we barely got crumbs.

But okay, let me focus. I loved how the author wasted NO time diving right in. At first, I did feel like some things happened a little too fast, but honestly, that kind of became part of the charm. Everything felt a bit out of order in a way that somehow worked for them.
Watching this badass, dominant mob boss fall first and hard for an inexperienced college student? I ate that up! They couldn’t be more opposite, but it just worked. I especially loved that Aria didn’t back down. She kept giving Killian attitude and you could see how much it kept him on his toes, she kept that man stressed and obsessed.

I won’t lie, there were moments where my brain was screaming Stockholm syndrome, but somehow I was still completely hooked.
And the spice? HOT. Like… this might be the first time the word “daddy” didn’t give me the ick, that’s how good it was. But honestly, the banter and chemistry really stole the show for me.

If you’re getting into mafia romance..READ THIS!

[Emely Tavarez · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

3.8 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️

Well, this was good and then it wasn’t.

Virgin fmc but not blood? Meh could’ve done with more dramatics.

Not enough descriptions of the characters when they’re introduced.

“Daddy” to a domme gives me the ick.
Jacob and Killian interactions had a spark in them.. this could’ve been more dwelled on.

I don’t like how publicly displayed the kink aspect of it all was.
The Lottie and Braden dynamic bc she was his employee didn’t sit well with me especially when making it a point to have the people at the club be made aware of the punishments.

“Little girl” —kill me now.

Also, the tropes did me in to apply for the arc but ugh I don’t appreciate third pov.

And WHAT DO YOU MEAN we didn’t get the full pregnancy in this book? Like way to assist in your own flop.

[Lovelettelore · Rating 4 out of 5]

She gave her V-card to her father’s best friend (unknowingly) and now he's kidnapped her to prove he's the only one who can keep her and their baby safe. 🍷👑

📖 King of Sin by Stella Moore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mafia Romance

Tropes
🧔‍♂️ Father's best friend
🩸 Mafia boss
🤰 Surprise pregnancy
⛓️ Kidnapped for her own good
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🌸 Virgin heroine
✨ One-night stand

Aria Elliot unknowingly met her father's best friend and mob boss, Killian, when she went to her father's kink club to lose her v-card. She got more than she bargained for when she found out months later that she's pregnant with the mob boss' heir. When Aria and her father proved they weren't taking her safety seriously, Killian had her kidnapped to prove that anyone could have done the same. Now, she's a prisoner of her baby daddy while he moves his business toward the legal side and enemies circle like sharks.

I really enjoyed this book! I like how their sexual chemistry turned from hate to slowly opening their hearts to each other.

I like how Aria is strong-willed and stands by her principles with determination. She knows what she wants and she's not afraid to voice it. She really met her match with Killian because he is almost the same; he doesn't abide by rules as long as she and their baby are safe. He's incredibly protective and he's not sorry about it.

The emotional and physical connection was amazing to read. There's action, external threats, and emotional challenges that they need to conquer together.

The only thing that felt a bit lacking for me was that the ending felt somewhat unfinished. The antagonist is still out there, and I wanted a bit more closure regarding what happens next with the baby. I felt the high of the book and wanted a more solid conclusion to their relationship, but the story was still a total rush. I will definitely read the next one!

Thank you The Smuthood and Stella Moore for this ARC.

[Kira Wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was AMAZING! It had so many tropes that I absolutely love and they all hit just right! Mafia romance, best friend's daughter, seggs club, he takes her for her own protection, accidental pregnancy, one night stand... it has everything my little heart could desire!

Aria, being the inquisitive little thing that she is goes to her dad's club after his wedding because she has a curiosity of that world and what lies beyond those doors. She is as pure as the fallen snow in terms of previous knowledge of seggs or k*nk. What she wasn't prepared for, and neither was he, was Killian O'Rourke known to the club members as Master O. Seeking out his peace after a night of chaos when an opposing family tries to take over his territory pulling him away from his best friend's wedding, Killian goes to the club. A place he finds solitude and can slightly let down his guard. What he isn't expecting is the woman he finds while he's there. There's something about her he can't put a finger on but when she says yes to one night all thinking is done. When one night gives them more than they bargained for, nothing not even her, her father, or anyone or anything else will keep him from protecting her at all costs.

I absolutely recommend this book and will continue to recommend this book forever! If I could give it more than 5 stars I absolutely would have! What a way to kick off a series!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.

Killian + Aria

A chance encounter between our MCs gives us one night of passion and a baby. Aria is a brat towards Killian and Killian cannot help himself in terms of wanting to discipline his Aria. I really enjoyed this book because the BDSM wasn't overdone. It was apart of most of the book BUT as the book progressed the relationship of our MCs deepened and Killian ended up having respect for Aria and her choices. He admired her strength and even though she was a brat to him... she understood that 'Daddy' was going to punish her behavior later (when they were alone).

I also liked the layered mafia vibes between the families and underlying issues with the shipments and other nefarious things going on. It added to the story and felt more rounded out with these conflicts going on.

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need a moment. Maybe several. Possibly a full emotional reset because King of Sin by Stella Moore did not just cross a line… it set the line on fire and watched it burn 🔥

From page ONE this book has its claws in you. That “one night only” setup? A lie. A beautiful, dangerous, life-ruining lie. Because the second Killian O’Rourke steps onto the page, it’s over. DONE. There is no casual here. There is no “just one night.” That man walks in like a storm dressed in sin and control and you just know nothing is ever going to be simple again.

And ARIA?? My girl really said “I’ll just dip my toes into something forbidden” and instead got dragged into a whole entire underworld with feelings, danger, obsession, and consequences that hit HARD.

The chemistry between them?? Absolutely unhinged. It’s not soft, it’s not gentle, it’s consuming. Every scene between them feels like it’s balancing on the edge of something explosive. The tension is thick, the power dynamics are intense, and the emotional pull underneath it all just makes it hit even deeper.

And then the reveal?? EXCUSE ME???
Irish mob boss. Father’s friend. The man she gave everything to.

I was sitting there like… this cannot get messier. And Stella Moore said “watch me.”

Killian is that brand of possessive, morally grey, slightly terrifying but completely magnetic MMC that you know you shouldn’t love… and yet there you are, fully invested, heart in your throat. The way he goes from controlled to completely undone over Aria?? The obsession. The protectiveness. The “I will burn the world for you” energy??? I ate it UP.

And listen… the nicknames???
“Princess.”
“Daddy.”

I—
I was not prepared. Not emotionally, not mentally, not spiritually. It just adds this extra layer of intensity that somehow makes everything hotter and more personal at the same time.

But what really got me is that underneath all the danger and heat, there’s this thread of inevitability. Like from that first night, you can feel it… they were never going to escape each other. Not after that connection. Not after what they shared.

And when things escalate??? The stakes go SKY HIGH. It’s not just about desire anymore, it’s about loyalty, power, family, survival… and how far someone will go to keep what’s theirs.

This book is dark, addictive, a little bit chaotic, and completely impossible to put down. It’s obsession wrapped in silk and danger, with a heartbeat that just keeps getting louder the deeper you go.

Five stars. I am ruined. Someone check on me.

[VoraciousBookGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so thrilled when I was chosen to ARC read “King of Sin” by Stella Moore, and I was absolutely enraptured before the first chapter was finished! It pulled me in so deep I had a hard time pulling myself away.

This is a darker romance with a male lead who is, well, not exactly a good person, but isn’t all bad either. It’s easy to become invested in his, shall we say, obsession with our female lead. I appreciated that Stella did not try to completely redeem him and make him out to be misunderstood but gave us every reason to embrace him for who he is, exactly how he is. Either you accept Killian exactly how he is presented, or you don’t.

The chemistry between Killian and Aria is intense, messy, and felt believable, rather than some kind of over-the-top drama for the sake of drama. Stella gave us just the right amount of drama, chaos, and chemistry to make it believable and to draw me into the various nuances of the relationship.
It was easy to understand Aria’s inner battle with herself with her need to hate Killian for all he stands for (Mafia), versus the overwhelming attraction and desire she has for him. Her inner turmoil is relatable. We are given a glimpse into Aria’s inner monologue which makes her a more relatable female main character.

The book explored an interesting facet of the D/s relationship and the ingrained belief that society has been placing on woman to be completely independent and not let a man have any say in her life. While Aria fights her desire to submit to Killian because of this ingrained belief, she also realizes that her submission gives her the power, not Killian and that helps balance the dynamic and provide realism.

The vibe of the book stood out to me. There’s a constant tension underneath everything, even in the quieter scenes, which made it hard to put the book down. There is a gentle, but constant undercurrent that something was about to go wrong, or right, which kept me turning the pages. Some parts did drag a little, and others felt too quick, but that is one of the things that made the book feel realistic.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. If you’re a dark romance reader who appreciates compelling characters that you can relate to, this is definitely your kind of book. The push-and-pull of the main character’s relationship is truer to life than a lot of this genre of book so I absolutely commend Stella for providing realistic characters.

Thank you again for choosing me to be an ARC reader for this book.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I am so thrilled to read about Killian O’Rourke. I remember him in the Cherry Popping series. I always wanted to know what happens to him. Now we know. And boy is he going to be in a world of hurt. Aria is Braden Elliott’s little girl. Well not a little girl anymore. She is a woman and wants to see inside her father’s club. A bit of a shock watching her uncles and their subs but very stimulating. When she meets a stranger that offers her a chance to punch her V-card and find out what BDSM is all about, she takes the offer. When they meet again the next morning, it is a major shock. Killian certainly didn’t expect the woman he encountered the night before to be none other than Braden’s daughter. Hot water indeed. Even worse, his fiancée Portia has returned. F his life. When Aria becomes pregnant, the real adventure begins.

When I read chapter 13, I laughed than shook my head. How the heck did Killian get himself into so much hot water. Aria shouldn’t have judged her father. I get that she still is new to it all but she was rude to him and Lottie. I honestly wanted Killian to spank her right then, if he had heard. The danger level ramps up when Killian kills the deal he had with Williams. First he has to tame his bride to be and then his family had to go into war mode. There was a wonderful then sad moment with Sean. I couldn’t believe what Aria’s father and uncles do. I would have been just as mad as she was. Smart girl though. She found a way to get around it. Reagan was the voice of reason for these two. She always told them about the emotion written on their faces. I hope she and the good doctor get their story. I love the play between them. The twins Lochlan and Tiernan have a story to tell. Lochlan being a sociopath, makes these to unstoppable. Murphy pretty much keeps to himself. I wonder what woman is going to break threw to him. Brody tells it like it is. I laughed when he told Goldie Quinn that her stories weren’t accurate about mob life. Goldie is so interested in learning all about it for her stories. Can’t wait for King of Secrets.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[kd_loves_books · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and would give this a 3.5 star rating, but it's not quite a 4 star for me.

Killian has blood on his hands, he feels the death of those under his protection and he is trying to go legitimate. He is dark, he must be in control at all times and when you are his he will do everything to keep you safe.

Aria, is curious and when she is given the opportunity for one night of passion at her father's kink club she jumps right in, but it is hard to be submissive when you are told not to let a man have power over you.

Killian and Aria have one night of passion, not knowing that they have one thing in common. Aria's father is Killian's best friend and is it ever just one night?

From there the plot twists keep coming, it gets dark and deadly but, throughout the story is the connection between Killian and Aria and the spice. He knows what he wants, but she struggles to accept him and what he stands for. The journey to the happy ever after is a little tense, full of great lines and banter.

Killian is what we all love in our morally grey man. He is powerful, lives with violence, possessive and protective. But when you are his and he falls he will do everything to keep you even if it means showing his vulnerable side.

In the beginning I struggled to connect with Aria's character at one point she seems shy and innocent and I couldn't quite work out her age. The next she is ballsy, foul mouthed, throwing opinions and sounding older. Once I got over this, I loved her strength, she was tough and stubborn and had to work through a lot to find her happy ending.

This has a good plot, great twists and good spice and chemistry between Killian and Aria. It felt a little rushed at the end and I would have liked a bit more depth of feeling as they come together. I also liked the link into the next book and can't wait to read it.

If you like a bit of kink, morally grey man and father's best friend trope, you will enjoy this book.

Thank you to Stella Moore and The Smuthood for the chance to read and review this advanced copy.

[shelleysreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by Stella and I very nearly stopped reading it as it’s written in the the third person which I normally don’t enjoy, but I knew I would like the story as the blurb sounded so good and I am so so glad I did! I loved the story and the characters!

I loved Aria, she was a feisty, headstrong and likable heroine. Killian is exactly what you would expect with a mob boss, controlling, obsessive, protective, grumpy, stubborn and he is so totally and completely gone for Aria from meeting her. He does not expect her to run rings round him, challenge him and stand up to him like she does and he can’t get enough of it!

The spice and kink in this book, oh boy it was on fire! Aria and Killian meet in her father’s BDSM club after she sneaks in when it’s closed for his wedding celebration, the don’t swap names, she calls him daddy and she’s his princess. They have a mind blowing time together before going their separate ways, before they realise the following morning at the wedding brunch who exactly the other is. Aria despises that he’s a mob boss, and she is so far off limits as to him as his best friend’s daughter, they go their separate ways. But when Aria discovers she’s pregnant shortly afterwards and killian finds out, he will do whatever he sees as necessary to protect her and their child and if that includes kidnapping her and locking her in his house then that’s just what he’s going to do! After all it is for her protection.

Their dynamics, the back and forth/push and pull between them was so entertaining I couldn’t stop reading. I loved that Aria didn’t just give into him, she stood up for herself and what she wanted, and only started to soften when she saw the man behind his mafia boss persona.

I loved the side characters too, some who I understand are from previous books but also Killian’s family. I can’t wait to get their stories!

Overall a good spicy mafia romance, I’m glad I gave it real go and didn’t stop reading it!

I received an arc copy as a gift, all opinions expressed are my own honest and genuine thoughts.

[Melanie Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review: 4⭐️
King of Sin is book 1 in the Ruthless O’Rourke’s series featuring Killian O’Rourke & Aria Elliott.

Killian attends a private post wedding party at his friends kink club where he meets a beautiful woman and they wind up spending a few hours together in a private room. He can’t help but think he knows who she is but he can’t place her and they don’t share names.

That is until the next morning when he attends the post wedding brunch and discourse the beauty from the night before is actually his best friend’s daughter.

When Aria discovers that the handsome stranger who rocked her world is none other than her dad’s best friend and the head of the Irish mob she is repulsed at the thought. They pretend not to know one another despite how close they were the night before.

Weeks later when Aria discovers she’s pregnant she doesn’t want to tell Killian about the baby. However after telling her Father about the pregnancy he goes to Killian to help track down the guy unaware that he just informed him of the pregnancy. When Killian confronts Aria and confirms he is the father, everything changes.

Aria attempts to carry on with her normal life without any regard to the safety risks that come with being pregnant with the Mob bosses baby, which forces Killian to take matters into his own hands. He has his guys grab her off the street and he plans to keep her under his roof for her protection and the babies.

How will Aria’s Father and uncles react to this news and will they do whatever it takes to free her from Killians grasp or will the time with Killian cause them to fall in love and do whatever it takes to protect their growing family?

This was my first Stella Moore book and I loved it! I was captivated from page 1 and couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next! I already can’t wait for the next book in this series and to get to know more of the other characters better!

Thank you Stella & The Smuthood for the ARC!

[Briana · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
3.5🌶️


🌟ARC Read🌟


This book is dual POV, but it threw me off at first because it’s written in third person. Not many romances are, so it took a minute to adjust.

Stella Moore is a new author to me. I saw the blurb and immediately needed it because I love a good mafia romance.

Killian O’Rourke is a criminal mastermind and head of his family. I know there are other books tied into this world, but this can be read as a standalone.

Aria is the daughter of Braden Elliott and is connected to the BDE club where Killian frequents.

Something about Aria just didn’t work for me. Her personality felt all over the place. She was supposed to be independent and bratty, but a lot of the time she just came across as rude and mean, while also being scared in situations where it didn’t quite match. She talks about being independent, but she is still living off her dad’s money, which made it hard to fully buy into her character.

They accidentally meet at her father’s club and end up having a one night stand where she loses her virginity. The next day they realize who each other are and decide they can’t continue. She finds out he’s the head of the Irish mafia and immediately assumes the worst about him.

Two months later, she’s pregnant and doesn’t plan to tell him. Of course, that doesn’t last long when her father asks Killian to find out who the father is. Surprise, it’s him. Then he kidnaps her, which honestly was one of the more entertaining parts.

I’ll be honest, I skimmed parts of this book.

I did really like Killian’s sister and the other members of the O’Rourke crew. They stood out more to me than the main relationship at times.

Spicy chapters 🔥
4
5
6
7
8
26
28
36
37
38
41

[Mikayla Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤ARC Review🖤

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5

Holy Heck, Killian O’Rourke, this man is amazing. Killian is charming, morally gray, possessive, and protective of his family. When he’s not running the Mafia side of his life, he’s at his Best Friends Club! Killian ends up at the club for his bestie’s wedding reception when he meets a mysterious woman who rocks his world. This scene was hot!! The tension, the spice, the way Killian knew how to navigate Aria’s fears and help her get what she wanted for the night was beautiful. I loved Aria in this scene; how even though she was scared, she knew what she wanted and she got it! Even though she was new at BDSM, she was always pushing Killian’s buttons throughout the scene. When these two meet the next morning, everything goes to hell! Killian learns that Aria is his best friend’s daughter, and Aria learns that he’s not just a businessman; he’s a mobster. I loved Aria; she’s sassy and feisty and will always keep Killian on the edge. She knows what she wants and she will try to do whatever she needs to get there. When she finds out she was pregnant, I couldn’t wait for Killian to find out because this man was obsessed with her already, and I knew it was going to get even worse. And boy did it. I was laughing my a** off when Killian was looking for her baby daddy, knowing danm well that it was him!! I loved the O’Rourke family and how they are truly aren’t as they seem. They might be dangerous, but they truly love each other. I can’t wait for the rest of the O’Rourke family’s stories!!

🖤Thank you so much for the ARC! This review is my opinion 🖤

[Sierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

🖤Arc Review🖤

King of Sin
Ruthless O’Rourkes Book 1
Available Now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

🥀Father's best friend
🖤Mafia boss
🥀Surprise pregnancy
🖤Kidnapped for her own good
🥀Enemies to lovers
🖤Virgin heroine
🥀One-night stand

This was my first Stella Moore read and…wow, consider me hooked. Definitely interested in reading the series that came before this one to learn more about the characters because this world totally entrapped me!

Aria Elliot talks a friend into letting her join in on a night at her father’s kink club. She has every intention of losing her v-card. She meets a handsome older stranger and one thing leads to another…v-card gone, new kinks unlocked and then the next morning finds out not only is he her dads best friend but…a mob boss! Cue all the fun dramatics of that reveal but the a few months go by and she’s pregnant with his heir and suddenly her life is anything but hers. When her safety is taken too lightly, Killian makes his point the only way he knows how, by taking her himself.

I was glued. The tension, the chemistry, the chaos I had no idea where this story was going, and that made it even better. Aria is fierce, stubborn, and refuses to be controlled, while Killian is just as strong willed, dangerously protective, and completely unapologetic about it. Watching their dynamic shift from explosive to something deeper was so satisfying.

It’s got heat, action, emotional punches, and that addictive “just one more chapter” energy that i definitely took advantage of into the wee morning. My only complaint? The ending left me wanting a bit more closure especially with the lingering threats and what’s next for their little family.

Still, I devoured this and I’m already ready for more. Thank you to Smuthood PR and Stella Moore for the arc! 🤍

[Pamela Noseworthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peppers - 3
Stars - 4
Hearts - 3

Ruthless O’Rourkes Series
ARC: Yes
Recommend: Yes. Mafia Kink Club. What's not to love

Thropes
Father’s Best Friend
Surprise Pregnancy
Lovers to Enemies to Lovers
Virgin FMC
One-Night Stand
Mafia

Killian is a charming, morally gray anti-hero with a dangerous reputation. Protective and possessive over Aria, he’s a Daddy Dom and Irish Mafia leader in Charleston his only true refuge. Killian’s hot night with a stranger upends his world. At brunch the next morning, it is revealed that Aria is Braden Elliott’s daughter, the owner of Club BDE. Braden then asks him to find Aria’s baby’s father, triggering Killian’s fierce protectiveness and setting the story in motion. Aria is sassy, feisty, and quick-witted, always keeping Killian on edge. Her stubbornness and guarded nature created tension, but her gradual trust revealed her true loyalty. Curious about her father's BDSM club, she found it arousing and boldly lost her virginity to a stranger, unaware of the life-changing consequences ahead.

Thoughts
I loved this heartfelt story, full of depth from the O’Rourke family's danger and loss to complex family ties. While I wasn't fond of Aria’s father and uncles, Killian’s family's fierce loyalty truly impressed me. I am going to have to go back and read Braden’s story now 😊

Quote(s)
"Why are you glaring at your ties? Did one of them do something naughty?"

[Samantha Flory · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Read

WOW… this book is pure chaos in the best way 🔥
If you love dark romance with high stakes, morally grey men, and tension that practically burns through the pages—this one delivers.

Killian O’Rourke is the definition of dangerous: ruthless, possessive, and completely unhinged when it comes to protecting what he claims as his. And the fact that he’s her father’s best friend? Yeah… the drama writes itself.

The story kicks off with a “one night only” mindset, but spirals fast into obsession, power, and consequences neither of them can escape. The surprise pregnancy trope adds even more intensity, and the push-pull between fear and desire keeps things addictive the whole way through.

Tropes you’ll eat up:
🖤 Father’s best friend
🖤 Mafia boss antihero
🖤 One night stand turned forever
🖤 Surprise pregnancy
🖤 “Kidnapped for her own good” energy
🖤 Enemies to lovers tension
🖤 Virgin heroine

Killian is NOT a soft hero—he’s possessive, controlling, and will absolutely burn everything down for her. If that’s your vibe, you’re going to be hooked.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (5/5 spice — intense, explicit, and not for the faint-hearted)

⭐️ Overall: Dark, intense, and unapologetically dramatic. Definitely check trigger warnings before diving in, but if you’re into toxic devotion and obsessive love stories, this one’s a ride.
Have you read this yet? Would you survive Killian… or fall for him? 👀

[Awilda Abreu · Rating 5 out of 5]

King of Sin – Stella Moore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5)

This book was chaos, tension, and chemistry from the very first page.

Aria and Killian’s story begins in a club where everything feels forbidden. She’s completely inexperienced and innocent… while he is the exact opposite dominant, confident, and dangerously captivating. What happens between them that first night sets the tone for everything that follows.

But the real twist comes after… when Aria finds out who Killian truly is: her father’s best friend and a powerful mafia boss. From that moment on, everything becomes more complicated, more forbidden… and way more addictive.

The pregnancy shifts the entire story. Killian, in a way that’s morally questionable but true to his character, decides to “protect” her by taking control, giving us that kidnapping/protection trope that adds intense tension.

What I loved most was the relationship development. Aria goes from resisting him completely to slowly understanding him, while Killian proves that, in his own way, he would do anything for her and their baby.

There are also lighter moments that balance the story especially her obsession with reading mafia romance books, which felt so fun and self-aware 😭

This is a forbidden romance with age gap, mafia, unexpected pregnancy, and a lot of emotional and physical tension.

It was entertaining, addictive, and honestly hard to put down. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.

[• Dan reads books • · Rating 5 out of 5]

An addictive mafia romance with a twist of BDSM in it! Seeing this Dom be completely smitten with his Brat has to be one of my favorite things!

I really enjoyed this two play cat and mouse, she’s the biggest brat and gives him hell but I mean she didn’t expect that a night of fun would tie her to the leader of the Irish mob and oh yes, her father’s best friend!

Killian is a ruthless man who is going to burn the city if necessary to protect his new princess and Aria is the bratty woman who is going to fight him on it because maybe Kidnap her wasn’t the best approach about her safety haha! But seriously I enjoyed so much their story, their connected fast but the patient and devoted way he accompanied her in accepting her feelings and even be willing to let her go even against his whole “bad mob boss persona” really did it for me!

I really loved Aria’s character, she’s fierce, sassy and witty but she’s also caring and gentle.. the complexity of her character is the struggle of accepting what she wants and needs even if that what she have been taught to hate. Her fierceness but compassionate duality is what made her one of my favorite FMC so far!

The third person narrator style make me pause at first, it something I haven’t seen often in the mafia genre, but I have to admit it gives a charming voice to the story and I the ended I wouldn’t have it other way!

[ljamison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I deliberately chose to read this book because it was the first in a new series. However, it appears that some of these characters are from a previous series. It didn’t make it hard to understand or follow, but I dislike the feeling of walking into the middle of something. This book is about strong willed, opinionated and obstinate Aria. She was raised by her mother to be fiercely independent. However, her father owns a kink club and has a Dom/sub relationship with his new wife. Aria is confused about this relationship but is insanely curious about the club. On her father’s wedding day she is snuck into the club. She meets a man who just blows her mind. He agrees to give her one night. That night is beyond anything either of them could imagine. But to her surprise she discover the next day that the man Killian is her father’s good friend and the head of the Irish mafia. They agree it was one night and that they should forget about it. That would be okay since Killian has a fiancée until he finds out that she is pregnant with his baby. Once he finds out he is determined to marry her and protect his baby. Killian is the ultimate daddy. This book was really about Aria’s adjustment to living with a man who called the shots and made decisions for her. If you like strong Daddy’s who take control and know how to handle their girls you will probably love this book.

[Tori'Emma Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

At first, I was going to DNF this book due to the fact that it isn't written in First person like most romance books, but I decided to give it a go, and I wasn't disappointed.

I love a good bit of Dom and Sub relationship especially when it comes to Brat taming and Stella Moore knows how to do it well! This is the first and only book I have read by Ms Moore and I can't wait to see what happens next! A possessive, insane MMC who would burn the world for her, a fierce, stubborn, bratty FMC and incredible writing. This book has everything you could want in a dark mafia romance.

Killian is the head of the Irish mob and is friends with the local sex club manager, while attending his friends wedding reception. He meets Aria, who is the Manager’s 21-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, and they have some fun in the club together. Of course, they don't know who each other is until… She ends up pregnant 😉

Then all bets are off!

There are some impressive side character’s especially Killian’s sister, Regan can own me any day of the month. hehe.

I can't wait to continue with this series, especially with the mafia romance author and Irish Mob Enforcer being the next couple, what could go wrong!

I want to thank Stella Moore and The Smuthood for the opportunity to read and review King of Sin.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
Plot: 5/5
Overall: 5/5

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killian O’Rourke is head of the mob, one night he meets Aria and his life is never the same again
Aria had never known what a BDSM club was and what went on there only that her father owned one, then she had met a man there and experienced an introduction to the life style and she had slept with him.
Three months later and she has discovered that she is pregnant and the father is her her father best friend and mob boss Killian, the only thing is that she has actually already fallen in love with him her “Daddy” and she wants to keep her baby and the father of her child even if this means having to split from her father.
Then she realises that everything he has told her is true and that her life is at risk and that without his family there is every likeliness that both her and her baby will not survive to birth. Since they have been together his family have been able to see the change in the man and the quite expectant excitement for the birth of his child.
This is a truly heart moving read and I guarantee that once you begin reading you will not put this book down until you reach the finish and discover the outcome.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

[Megs · Rating 4 out of 5]

🖤👑ARC Review👑🖤

Thank you Stella Moore and The Smuthood for this ARC of King of Sin…

This was a sensual fast paced slow burn. (If that makes sense?) Killian known as the big bad head of the Irish mob, and Aria the innocent daughter of his best friend (to which Killian did not realize until later).

I absolutely could not put this down!
With all the Chaos that was Killian and Aria, these two were meant to be!

When it comes to a Virgin FMC I love the moment that she tells him that either she is a Virgin or that he was her 1st and only, and the deliciousness of being edged for her to tell him that "secret" and just thinking how feral that will make hime was epic!

I really did love how strong willed Aria was and how Killian tried to push her way, even though there was no one he wanted and needed more than her. When fate had other plans to align these two for always and the love that bloomed was so perfect!

Just a smidge of confusion in the beginning, it seemed like there were a lot of cameos of characters from previous books that was a bit overwhelming. (Not sure if this was a spin off series?)

Tropes:
🖤Mafia Romance
👑Best Friends Daughter
🖤Virgin FMC
👑He Fell First
🖤Surprise Pregnancy
👑K!nk Club
🖤Age Gap
👑No 3rd Act Break-Up

[Bellas.bookworld · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for your next read, RUN and go meet Aria and Daddy Killian.
This was actually my first time reading this author—I went in completely blind after receiving an ARC and honestly… wow. I was not disappointed at all.
The chemistry between Aria and Killian was absolutely incredible. It felt natural, intense, and had me hooked from start to finish. Aria is such a strong, no-nonsense, badass female lead. She refuses to let anything—or anyone—stand in her way. Not the mob, not her past, and not even her own father. She’s the kind of character you can’t help but admire.
And Killian? Let’s just say I fully understand the hype. I was completely obsessed with him. He’s the perfect balance to Aria—he never tries to control or overshadow her, which I loved, but when she lets him take the lead… it’s done very well. Their dynamic just works.
Between the banter, the twists, and the spice, this book delivered on every level. It kept me engaged the entire time and had just the right mix of tension and payoff.
Overall, this was a 10/10 read for me, and I will absolutely be recommending it to friends. If you love strong female leads, great chemistry, and a good amount of spice, this one is definitely worth picking up

[Brea · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 4.5 | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book? Unhinged. Chaotic. Hot as hell. And I ate up every single second.
Stella Moore really said what if we ruin your life… but make it sexy? and I said thank you, actually.
Aria and Killian had me locked in immediately. The chemistry is intense, messy, and just the right kind of toxic that makes you kick your feet while questioning your life choices. Aria is spunky, clever, and does not back down—even when faced with an overbearing, overprotective, morally gray mob boss who clearly has zero chill.
And Killian? Sir. Be serious.
This man is possessive, controlling, slightly unhinged, and fully obsessed. He is not a good man. He is not trying to be a good man. And somehow that makes it worse (better).
What I loved most is that the story doesn’t try to “fix” him. You get exactly who he is, take it or leave it. And Aria? She meets him there in a way that somehow works.
The tension is constant. Even in the quieter moments, it feels like something is about to go very wrong… or very right… and either way you’re not safe.
Now listen—this is DARK. This is SPICY. This is not for the faint of heart. If you like your romance a little unhinged with kink elements and heavy themes, you’re going to have the best time. If not… this might send you into a spiral.
I did want just a little more emotional depth in some moments, and the ending definitely feels like it’s holding back—but it’s clearly setting up the rest of the series, so I’m not mad… just impatient.
Tropes that absolutely chose violence: 🖤 Mafia romance
👑 Best friend’s daughter
🖤 Surprise pregnancy
👑 Possessive, obsessed MMC
🖤 Kink club chaos
👑 He falls first
And don’t even get me started on the side characters—because I am already feral waiting for Brody & Goldie and Reagan & Naomi. I just know those stories are going to cause problems for me.
Overall: chaotic, addictive, morally questionable in the best way, and ridiculously entertaining.
Thank you to Smuthood & Stella Moore for the ARC!

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

This spin off of the author's BDE series, we FINALLY get Killian's story. He may be a morally gray, but he's also a Daddy Dom who's super protective of those that are his. After a chance encounter with a perfect woman, Killian is shocked to discover she's his best friend's daughter. And to top it off, when Aria finds out about his mafia connections she wants nothing to do with him. But a surprise pregnancy changes everyone's plans. This book started out with their spicy encounter and it just was a rollercoaster ride from there. This couple was fire. Their attraction was white hot and never let up, even when they were verbally sparing and on the outs, in the bedroom, watch out. I loved how Killian wasn't ever going to take chances with Aria and their child, even if it meant losing his friend and making her mad at him. And I loved how Aria was willing to open up to learning who the true Killian was and once he had her loyalty, she wasn't going to waiver, even standing up to her father and showing the world just who she was standing beside. Aria and Killian were perfect for each other and the perfect king and queen of the O'Rourkes. Give me more!

[Whitney Cruthird · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC thanks to Smuthood and author

This book absolutely delivers when it comes to obsession, power, and that dangerously addictive “touch her and die” energy.

Killian O’Rourke doesn’t just claim… he owns. The moment that man says “mine,” it’s not a suggestion, it’s a life sentence. Cold, calculated, and completely ruthless, he loves just as hard as he rules, and trust me, you feel every ounce of it.

Then there’s Aria, equal parts firecracker and chaos gremlin. She pushes, provokes, and tests every boundary like it’s her full-time job. Sometimes it earns her the upper hand… other times? Let’s just say Killian knows exactly how to remind her who she belongs to, and it’s not what you expect 👀

This story weaves together enemies-to-lovers tension, forbidden “dad’s best friend” stakes, and enough emotional whiplash to keep you hooked. Family loyalty and drama, surprise pregnancy, and those not-so-little daddy issues collide in the best messy way.

In this mafia world, love isn’t soft. It’s consuming, relentless, and a little dangerous. Fight it all you want, but once you fall… you fall hard.

“Some might call it obsession. Others might call it love.”

[Arin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an epic intriguing action packed book I loved every minute of discovery these characters now that I explore this amazing book I want to go back in read the side characters stories as well! If they’re as dangerous strong willed, full of mystery, forbidden love as this one is I know I’ll be in book heaven! I very much love the strong personalities, Instant attraction and the surprises throughout this story! It’s a wonderful start for a new series that leaves me already obsessed and wanting more right away this author is so good at keeping your attention, giving me butterflies as a read especially during unbelievable shouldn’t be curious about moments/ steamy parts! Such a detailed perfect giving us a little of everything I personally love in stories like unthinkable situations, dark romance in every way, and much more. I also love getting different prints of views in how the people really think and this one definitely made me super happy with plenty of laughter and I can’t believe that’s happening moments! Overall great read and can’t wait to continue this amazing read with the strong nit family who will do whatever it takes for whoever they care about!

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay but this?? Peak “I know it’s messy and I love it anyway” energy.

Who doesn’t love a good mafia romance? If you said “me,” I’m gonna need you to log out and rethink your life choices real quick.

This book is serving everything: banter that actually hits, spice that delivers, and a man who would absolutely commit crimes (more crimes??) for his woman. Killian is that guy, alpha, in control, knows exactly what he wants… except surprise! what he wants is Aria, and he did not see that coming.

And the drama?? Delicious. Mans really said “mysterious hookup” and accidentally unlocked:

* best friend’s daughter 😬
* age gap 😬
* she’s a virgin 😬
* accidental pregnancy 😬

Like sir… pick a struggle. But also don’t, because I ate it UP.

Aria, meanwhile, just thought she was catching feelings for a hot, older, slightly intimidating man and instead got tossed headfirst into the mafia AND a relationship dynamic she didn’t even realize she wanted. Growth, but make it chaotic.

Also, Killian as a dad?? Stop. The way he flips into full protector/provider mode for Aria and the baby??? That’s the good stuff right there. And his family?? I’m already emotionally invested, especially the sister. I will absolutely be showing up for the rest of this series like it’s my job.

And that ending?? Twists, tension, payoff, exactly what you want to close things out while still leaving you ready for more.

Final verdict: messy, tropey, slightly unhinged in the best way, and I had a GREAT time. If it has “touch her and die” energy, I’m already seated.

Thank you to Smuthood!