Hold Your Breath

Masked Men

by Jaye Pratt

All I wanted was to add a little excitement to my love life, maybe take a risk and step out of my comfort zone. Unfortunately, my bright idea to tie myself to a chair for my now ex-boyfriend went horribly wrong, and I got a little stuck. Humiliated, I had no choice but to call my stepbrother, Micah, for help, and because the universe has a twisted sense of humor, he brought his two best friends, Jace and Zac, along for the ride.

To escape the embarrassment, I left for my family’s Easter holiday early, but I wasn’t expecting company, especially not three masked strangers who seem to know exactly how to make me feel alive. They’re everything I’ve been missing—bold, attentive, and completely irresistible. For the first time, I can truly let go of my fears.

When I can no longer ignore the truth staring me in the face, that all three men want me, I’m forced to confront my deepest fears. The walls I’ve built around my heart crumble, leaving me vulnerable to the possibility of something real. Now, I have to decide if I’m brave enough to take a leap of faith and be theirs, or if I’ll let my fear keep me from the love I never saw coming.

Genres: Dark Romance, Novella, Romance, Why Choose, Smut, Erotica, M M Romance

168 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2025

Reviews

[Kendra Renae · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5 🌶️5


I’ll always eat up why choose , masked men & primal play🤭

[Sabrina · Rating 2 out of 5]

well that was.. interesting

[Abbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one the characters were amazing and I, loved how Willow respected their relationship and would apologise if she felt she over stepped before she knew

I also love that their parents are so supportive of their unusual dynamic

[Bec Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaye Pratt has done it again with another 🔥🔥🔥 as hell masked men novella.

I love how her novellas start with her thoughts as a mum vs thoughts as an author. Always gives me a good laugh.

If you love a good MMFM (may have got the code wrong) stepbrother romance I highly recommend giving this book a read.

Also I wonder what is in the other Easter eggs....

[kayla Buis · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'm going to F!#k you now. And remember, if I push on your head, hold your breath".

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Jaye Pratt!!!! This woman holds a spot in my heart with her masked men series. They each take a place in my comfort read zone, and any time I am feeling like I'm falling into a slump... ill simply pick up one of these masked men books and comfort read.

Willow is a self-conscious FMC, which is not normally something I go for when choosing reads, however Jaye has done her justice in the character development, by the end of the book she is a bad arse women, who knows who she is and what she wants, turns out all she needed to find that confidence was her stepbrother who hates her and his 2 lovers, to find her butt arse naked and tied to a chair.

Micha (the beautiful broody soul he is) has been keeping a secret from his family for years, and an even bigger secret from his stepsister. One bout of shit luck on willow's end sends his life in a manic spiral, in the absolute most delicious way.
Then you have Jace and Zac, these mennnnn ooooft. The way these three build up willows self-confidence after her family have been putting her down for years, is just beautiful.

Hold your Breath is a MMMF reverse harem read. Full of spice, banter, self-healing and so much love. I'll be classing this as my fluffy romance recommendation from now on!!

!!TROPES!!
forced proximity, forbidden love, opposites attract, secret romance, why choose, masked men, polyamorous, best friends step sibling, grumpy/sunshine, love at first sight, betrayal/redemption, banter to love, reverse harem, self-discovery journey, found family, plus size FMC

!!TRIGGERS!!
bodily fluids, bondage, diets, head held underwater, emotional abuse, family conflict, gaslighting (not by mains), graphic sex, nudity, shaming (not by mains)

[Ryn Meagher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Hold My Breath by Jaye Pratt

Okay, let me start this by saying: we ALL know I’m obsessed with the masked men series so of course, I dove headfirst into Hold My Breath. Except… I got sidetracked halfway through because my brain is a feral raccoon with shiny distractions. BUT I CAME BACK, and oh boy, I’m glad I did.

So, we meet Willow. Poor girl ties herself to a chair blindfolded and naked (as you do, obviously) boyfriend from hell didn’t help and dumped her and ends up having to call her stepbrother for help. Casual Tuesday vibes, right?, plot twist, said stepbrother shows up with his TWO boyfriends in tow. From there, we slide straight into the chaos of stepbrother-actually-loves-her + reverse harem deliciousness. And let’s be real, WE LOVE A REVERSE HAREM.

I was vibing, enjoying my little “this is fine 🔥🐇🔥” moment when suddenly… they pushed her head underwater while doing it. Excuse me?? That’s apparently where the title comes from. Willow said kink unlocked, meanwhile I said WHAT THE HELL DID I JUST READ. Flabbergasted. Shooketh. Did I keep reading? Absolutely.

Also, can we just pause to appreciate that ALL THIS WAS HAPPENING DURING EASTER? 🐰 They were out here calling her little bunny while the family was due to show up, and I was wheezing. Peak chaotic energy.

But beneath the wild, messy vibes, there’s this beautiful thread of self-confidence, mental health, and learning to love yourself. And honestly? That hit me right in the chest. For all the chaos, it was also deeply heartfelt, and I loved that balance.

Chaotic. Beautiful. Bunny-approved. 🐇
Solid read from me.

[Kirsten Eliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars for the book and the spice 🥵

Hold Your Breath by Jaye Pratt is another incredible addition to the Masked Men series—and it did not disappoint. This MMMF reverse harem novella is packed with spice, banter, healing, and self-love, and I was hooked from start to finish.

Zac, Jace, and Micah are the glorious MMCs we all need in our lives. Each one brings something deliciously different to the table, and together they’re an absolute dream. I wouldn’t be mad if this is how my Easter planned out, let’s be honest 😏

Willow is a plus-size FMC who starts off shy, self-conscious, and struggling with body image—something I can really relate to. Watching her grow into her confidence and learn to embrace herself with the support (and love) of her men was so empowering. Her journey felt real and raw, and it made all the spicy moments that much more meaningful.

And speaking of spice… Jaye delivers. The quote that fully lives rent-free in my mind?

“I’m going to f!#k you now. And remember, if I push on your head, hold your breath.”

Like… excuse me?! That line alone deserves a standing ovation.

Jaye’s writing is phenomenal—easy to read, impossibly hot, and filled with characters that linger in your head long after the last page. If you’re after a short, steamy read with heart, this one’s an absolute must.

[Kacie Mummawh0reads.x · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4🌶️4💧0

📗 MMMF
📕 Masked Men
📘 Stepbrother
📙Super Hot Voyeuristic Scene
📚Easter Themes

This novella is a spicy quick read that def leaves you wanting! I’m living in my Masked men era and this one certainly ticked the boxes!! I just have one question… what was in the rest of the eggs? IYKYK

#holdyourbreath #jayepratt #steamybooks
#bookrecs #steamyreads #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #beyondoverbooked #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife#darkromance #spicybooklover

[caitys.booknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

2025:

"What went so wrong in my life that I think so little of myself?"

This book gave me all sorts of feels - a wild roller coaster ride of emotions.
There are very little words I can use to describe this book other than WOW.
The spice from this instalment of Pratt's Masked Men Novellas is the same as what we've come to know and love.
The storyline - the characters - the vulnerability...
The dynamics of this book just hit much harder than the others.
In the best and worst of ways; I'm equally in love and heart broken with this story.
I'll be forever grateful that I picked up that first book!

"I hate the thought of being alone, yet letting people in is harder because it gives them the power to leave you."

Jess made me choose: Jace.

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was not exactly my favorite one in this series, but it was still a good read. I liked that Willow had a pretty good character development. She will definitely need to work on her confidence, but I know Micah. Jace and Zac will make sure she gets the confidence back. I dont like how her mom didn't realize how much her sister's words affected Willow, though. You really thought she could handle her aunt called her fat and stuff?! Come on now.

[Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ 5🌶️

I LOVE this series.
Once again Jaye has smashed it!
Quick read, finished in 1 session. I literally couldn’t put the book down.
3 masked men, 1 gorgeous lady.
Gotta love the odds.
Also love the Easter theme!

[Angiee.Fallenpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yesss Jaye - you did it again!
I love these books - and I love me some masked men ;)
Just do yourself a favour and read this, read allll of jayes works

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a massive Jaye Pratt and Masked Men Series fan! Each one keeps getting better and this was no exception! This is a must read!

If you love masked men, spicy spicy novella’s and well written characters, you must read this! All of these novella’s live rent free in my mind.

[Paige Seach Sorrenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who do you call when your naked tied to a chair and your boyfriend dumps you? Your step brother. Who’s he bringing along? His two “bestfriends”. Deciding to arrive at the family Easter celebrations a week early, how else are you going to pass the time, if not by agreeing to sign up to a website that brings your fantasies to life. This little bunny does get caught by 3 masked men during a fun little Easter egg hunt, and let’s just say, it’s not chocolate eggs she’s sucking on 😏
MMMF

[Angel Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew easter could get any better! But add masked men chasing you through the woods and its a dream come true!!!

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly sweet.

Don’t get me wrong. There is absolutely as much filthy sex as the description promises, but Willow is empowered instead of being demeaned in any way.
These novellas suit a specific mood for me, but sometimes I wish they were a little longer so I could understand the men better.

[theappleisledreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐
4🌶️

Just like the FMC's in these books, I just can't get enough of Jaye Pratt's masked men, and Micah, Jase and Zac are nooooooooo exception!!! 🥵🥵🥵

Fast paced, high heat and a great read. Jaye's ability to have so many similar storylines that are all written in a way that makes them original stories is amazing and this one does not disappoint!
The pre-existing MMM relationship made for a great point of difference from the earlier books, and the MM scenes in the book were very well written (but let's be honest, all of Jaye's spicy scenes are absolute 🔥🔥🔥).

I loved the connections within this book to the previous storylines as well, it gave the story a lot more depth and those links gave insight into the backstory and character development of the people involved without having to explain it on page!
As always, definitely a recommended read. My Shelf trophy has been ordered and is already on its way!

I choose in the Why Choose: Zac stole my heart in this one!

Tropes: MMMF, Multi POV, forced proximity, opposites attract, insta love, forbidden love, one night stand to more, secret romance, why choose, masked men, polyamorous, only one bed, kink, banter to love, taboo, step-siblings, found family, curvy FMC,

Triggers:
Anxiety, bodily fluids, bondage, bullying, cheating, drowning (kind of- it was during spicy scene...), family conflict, fear, graphic sex, homophobia, infidelity, nudity, pressure, self hate (body image), primal kink

[Jess Smythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Masked Men series may be novellas, but they pack a punch when it comes to storyline, relatable characters and sizzling tension 🥵

This MMMF novella follows Willow as she wants to explore new things sexually with her (now ex) boyfriend, who turns out to be a grade A douche canoe. What’s a girl to do when tied nekkid to a chair? Call the Step Monster, aka Micah.

We’re then introduced to Micah and his “friends” Jace and Zac. We learn all the juicy details about these boys and their “friendship” through multiple POV’s that explain their backstories and shows how they’ve all come to be together. Willie of course has no idea that her hottie firefighter step brother is taken by Jace and Zac, or that he’s been lusting after her for years. Cue the masks, tensions, witty banter, spice and forbidden romance 🫣

I found Willow to be such a relatable FMC, showing us that there can always be doubts and insecurities if we’re told enough that we have them, which of course makes it harder to accept and believe compliments when they’re given. I love how she grows confidence within herself, with the help of her lovely men. The MMC’s, Micah, Jace and Zac, are hilarious, caring, supportive, respectful, uplifting and ready to get down and dirty 😉 they’re completely at ease within themselves and their relationship, that when they consider adding Willow to it, it’s an easy decision, she’s what they’ve been looking for.

The temptation for Willow is too much to ignore, signing up for an experience with a Masked Man to play with, except she didn’t expect three to come along. The more the merrier, right? 🫣 after the final reveal and feelings are on the line, what will the rest of the family think when they arrive at the house for their annual Easter festivities?

This novella is easy to devour in a day, especially if you want something easy to read but is always a wild rollercoaster of a ride. Jaye Pratt is always such a fabulously enjoyable author to read ❤️

[Theresse (Tess) Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

♡ “Who doesn’t like an adult Easter hunt before being chased by masked men…” ♡

Willow’s first meeting with Jace and Zac had me absolutely dying: with both secondhand embarrassment and laughter. It was the perfect chaotic introduction to set the tone for this quick, high-spice read that fans of Jaye’s other novellas will instantly recognize and enjoy.

As with Jaye’s previous works, the book doesn’t just rely on steam; it also brings emotional depth. Willow’s insecurities are deeply relatable, and one of the most heartwarming parts of the story is how Micah, Jace, and Zac never let her fall victim to her own negative self-talk. Their support feels genuine, not performative, and adds a layer of emotional comfort to the heat.

♡ “You need to learn to love yourself. Every part of you is so damn perfect.” ♡

The dynamic between the three guys is another strong point. Jaye does a great job of making sure each character has a distinct personality and emotional role in the relationship. They each bring something different to the table, and just as importantly, they each need something that only this specific group can provide together.

♡ “I want her to know how f*cking beautiful she is, inside and out. Someone like her deserves the world, and I would do my f*cking best to give it to her if I had half a chance.” ♡

One of the book’s best messages is its strong thread of body positivity. It’s clear and impactful, though there were times it started to feel a bit repetitive. Willow’s insecurities are important to the story, but mentioning them in nearly every conversation made them feel a bit overemphasized. If you're in the mood for something quick and spicy, with a side of laugh-out-loud awkwardness, this one's for you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spice: 4/5

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tropes:
❀ Stepsiblings ❀
❀ RH / Why Choose ❀
❀ Masked Men ❀
❀ Easter Egg Hunt w/ a Twist ❀

[Susan McWhinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving these masked men novellas by Jaye Pratt and cannot get enough of them. A quick easy read that can be devoured in one sitting!
A forbidden romance between step siblings Willow and Micah, with his two besties tagging along for the ride!
When she gets help from Micah from an unfortunate situation, of course he brings his besties Jace and Zac.
Micah has an ongoing relationship with his house mates, Jace and Zac, which, of course Willow knew nothing about but when Willow caught a glimpse of Jace with Micah, she felt herself become aroused!! As you would...of course!!
Having had her full curvy figure ridiculed and shamed by her family for years, she had problems with her curves, believing she was not worthy of love!
Not so for the boys. Micah has always felt a pull towards his step sister and led her to believe he hated her as this made it easier to stay away from her!
But they all felt an insta attraction towards her (especially in her most vulnerable form) and wanted more time with her.
I loved the banter, the push and pull of Willow and the boys as they led her to live out her fantasies with 3 masked men!
Always a scorching hot read and this book did not disappoint.
So if you love reverse harem MMFM relationships then you are once again gonna love this one from Jaye.
A worthy 5 stars from me! Cannot wait for the next book....well I am hoping there is another in this enticing series!

[BreakingtheEpigraph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shimmering Shamrock! I know this is an Easter-themed masked men novella, but that was all I could think while reading about Willow, Micah, Jace, and Zac. This MMMF, stepbrother, body-positive, why-choose romance takes spice to a whole new level.

This fast-paced, steamy read is impossible to put down. At least, I could not. Willow finds herself in a predicament and needs her stepbrother's help. When he comes to the rescue, he brings a couple of friends with him. Let’s just say this Easter is one hopping good time.

The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the story moves at the perfect pace for a novella. It is short but delivers everything it promises. There is steam, intrigue, and plenty of heart. The body positivity woven into the story makes it even more refreshing. Each character brings something unique, making it impossible to pick a favorite.

I cannot wait for the next installment. Every book in this series keeps outdoing the last, and I still cannot decide which one I love most. If you love spicy novellas with strong bonds and no unnecessary drama, this one is a must-read.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author. This review is purely from my perspective, and all opinions are my own. I am under no obligation to review the book.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

When life throws a curveball and leaves a person tied naked to a chair, sometimes they have to bite the bullet and call the one person they really don't want to call to get them out of their embarrassing predicament. Cue Willow calling Micah, resigned to enduring some relentless teasing, but at least she won't be naked after. Or tied to a chair, I guess.

No lie, things didn't quite turn out the way Willow thought. Micah did come to her rescue, but he brought his two hunky friends and now they've all seen her naked. They also went out for drinks after because why not? And Willow might have had to tell the men what led to the situation they found her in.

So Willow does what anyone would do when faced with all that and flees to the house her family is staying at for the holidays early to get herself in order. Except the massive house is Micah's and he knows exactly where she is. He and his BFFs are determined to give Willow the experience she's craving. Repeatedly.

As it turns out, Willow thought Micah hated her, but he's really only been trying to keep himself in check. Now? He's letting himself off the leash. He's going to convince Willow the four of them have a future worth fighting for. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

[Krystal R Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐ 5🌶️

Meet Willow, just like most women she wishes she was sexy but if you ask her she's just cute and average. Her stepbrother Micah plus his friends Jace and Zac however are firemen, the type you'd see in a shirtless calendar so you can imagine just how embarrassing it is when she has to call on them to help when she's left naked, alone and tied to a chair. After that whole ordeal she heads off for her Easter holiday early to enjoy some peace before her family arrives and that's when the fun really begins.

Just, wow. I have absolutely loved all these fast paced masked men novellas but this would have to be my favourite. The absolute relatability of the main character, the beautiful self love moments, the acceptance and of course the spice were just beyond amazing. Jaye has also managed to put references to multiple of her other novellas in here much like the rest of the series yet you could pick up any of them in any order and start reading.

This is the Easter treat I didn't even know I needed but dang am I glad I got to have it.

[Tonia Byrd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Hold Your Breath by Jaye Pratt

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Hold Your Breath by Jaye Pratt is a short but sizzling read that dives headfirst into forbidden romance and tantalizing tension. The story follows Willow, who finds herself in an unexpected predicament that forces her to turn to her stepbrother, Micah, for help. What starts as an innocent plea quickly spirals into a scorching-hot dynamic involving Micah and his two best friends, Jace and Zac.

Pratt’s writing is fast-paced, engaging, and unapologetically steamy. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the novella wastes no time delivering on its promise of high heat. While the plot is straightforward, the intensity of the relationships keeps the pages turning.

If you’re looking for a quick, spicy read with a reverse harem twist, Hold Your Breath is a solid choice. The only reason it’s not a full 5-star read is that I would’ve loved a bit more depth in the characters and storyline. But if you’re here for the spice? Oh, it’s five peppers hot!

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This masked men novella is short and spicy just like the others in this series of standalones. This one centers around Easter. It is MMMF and features an extremely self-conscious, curvy FMC. It's fast-paced and short, so you can read it in one sitting.

I really enjoyed the relationship dynamic between the guys in this one. Their personalities were all different from each other, and they needed different things in the relationship. I liked Willow and could relate to her. This book promotes loving the skin you're in and who you are, which is fantastic and the guys were great about it, but it started to feel like that was the main star of the book. It just felt like Willow's body concerns were getting harped on too much and lasted the entire book. The ending was great for these characters, though I wish we got epilogues at the end of these novellas that were set in the future so we could see how they ended up.

[The_Book_Brat · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Why Choose
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Stepbrother
*Body Confidence
*Fantasy Site
*Established Harem (MMM)
*Mid Burn
*Novella
*Standalone
Rut like Bunnies!
Masked men directing an Easter egg hunt chasing after their sweet little bunny, where each egg has a seggsual act makes for a fun frisky read👌
Our FMC Willow has body issues that her firefighter stepbrother and his lovers may just help her get over in all the best ways 🔥 Micah has always had a thing for his stepsister but never acted on it until an embarrassing moment for her draws him and his lovers into her world in a whole new way 😌 Jace is like an effervescent puppy dog whose latched onto something he wants; Zac is a little more standoffish but for good reason and when he realises she could be the missing piece to their family he goes all in! Boy do try rock this girls world and show her how to love herself 🥰

[Krissie (Kiki's Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do I get a message to the Easter Bunny to let them know I've been a really good girl?
because 3 masked men fire-fighters... yes, please!

This novella brings all the steam, I even think it's unlocked a new kink for me, but there's a beautiful deeper underlying message of self-love.

Hold Your Breath is a bold, body-positive read that celebrates self-love and embracing your curves. The FMC starts out feeling self-conscious about her body, weighed down by judgment and doubt, but through her maked men journey, she learns to love herself. It’s all about owning who you are, cutting out toxic people, and refusing to shrink yourself for anyone. It's a fierce reminder that you’re beautiful without needing to change a thing.

Jaye Pratt, I can't get enough of you! You bring all the heat while making safety, consent, and contraception hot. So much respect 🫶🏻

[Paige Ridler · Rating 4 out of 5]

😈Hold Your Breath by Jaye Pratt🐇

“Jace is like a damn puppy when he gets excited about something”

“And they refuse to let me believe I am anything other than their perfect Little Bunny”

This was dirty, quick and fabulous! I finished Hold Your Breath in one sitting, its got taboo step siblings, why choose, coming out of the closet, body positivity, masked men and ooh so delicious spicy scenes.

Willow wants to test the boundaries, find what she enjoys sexually. Her good for nothing boyfriend (now ex-boyfriend) leaves her in a predicament…with no one to call since its Easter and every ones away…she calls her step brother…

Tropes:
🐇Why Choose
😈Masked Men
🐇Taboo
😈Forbidden Romance
🐇Masked Men

Rating:
⭐⭐⭐.5/out of 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/out of 5

[Stacey Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so I just finished "Hold Your Breath" by Jaye Pratt, and honestly, I'm still catching my breath. (See what I did there?) This book definitely delivered on the suspense!

From the first chapter, I was hooked. There was plenty of palpable tension that just builds and builds. The characters felt real, flawed, and relatable, which made their situations all the more gripping. I was genuinely invested in their fates, and I found myself flipping pages way past my bedtime.

Now, why not a full five stars? There were a few moments where I felt the pacing lagged a tiny bit. But honestly, those are small gripes in an otherwise fantastic read.

If you're looking for a book to keep you up at night (in a good way!), this is it. Seriously, go grab a copy. You won't regret it.

[Kaitlin S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: 4/5
Plot: 2/5
Spice Level: 4/5
Recommended: Yes, if you want high spice/low plot

I decided to read this one after Don't Get Caught because this one was set at Easter. I plan to read the others in the series closer to their respective holidays! This was another great high spice/low plot read, and I rated it with that in mind. While I liked the masked men/chase elements more in Don't Get Caught, I liked the actual relationship between the main characters more in this one. The way the guys try to hard to make Willow love herself really resonated with me. They took such good care of her, both physically and emotionally, and I loved that. If you want a quick read that will maybe take you an hour or 2, this is a solid choice!