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Saint View Murder Squad #2
Whips and Chains
Three…Two…One… The game has just begun.
Shadows crawl across the walls of an abandoned warehouse.
A knife waits on the table. A clock bleeds away the seconds.
Someone isn’t leaving alive.
My only chance of survival lies with the three men searching for me in the dark.
I let my guard down with X, the funny psychopath who has been following me for weeks, claiming I’m his future wife…Until he put his fingers around my throat and the laughter died away. Now he’s convinced he’s going to kill me and I’m not entirely sure he’s wrong.
Whip is the sin I paid for. He was supposed to be a transaction—one night only. Instead, he took my firsts and left me craving seconds neither of us should want.
And Levi… the ex-prisoner who wrote me letters that stole my heart. But love doesn’t protect us from a killer who knows all our secrets.
As sins are exposed and lies unravel, one thing becomes apparent.
The game isn’t over.
And the rules are written in blood.
Whips and Chains is the second book in the Saint View Murder Squad trilogy and cannot be read as a standalone. Start the series with book 1, X’s and O’s. This book contains dark themes that may trigger some readers.
Shadows crawl across the walls of an abandoned warehouse.
A knife waits on the table. A clock bleeds away the seconds.
Someone isn’t leaving alive.
My only chance of survival lies with the three men searching for me in the dark.
I let my guard down with X, the funny psychopath who has been following me for weeks, claiming I’m his future wife…Until he put his fingers around my throat and the laughter died away. Now he’s convinced he’s going to kill me and I’m not entirely sure he’s wrong.
Whip is the sin I paid for. He was supposed to be a transaction—one night only. Instead, he took my firsts and left me craving seconds neither of us should want.
And Levi… the ex-prisoner who wrote me letters that stole my heart. But love doesn’t protect us from a killer who knows all our secrets.
As sins are exposed and lies unravel, one thing becomes apparent.
The game isn’t over.
And the rules are written in blood.
Whips and Chains is the second book in the Saint View Murder Squad trilogy and cannot be read as a standalone. Start the series with book 1, X’s and O’s. This book contains dark themes that may trigger some readers.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2025
3667 people are currently reading
1544 people want to read
About the author
Elle Thorpe
61 books4,797 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Elle Thorpe is the author of over thirty romance titles, including Amazon top ten books, Start a War and Locked Up Liars. She is best known for her dark reverse harems, and sexy small town romances.
When she's not writing, she's probably out on her family's alpaca farm in rural Australia.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ellethorpebooks
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When she's not writing, she's probably out on her family's alpaca farm in rural Australia.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ellethorpebooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 678 reviews
October 17, 2025
But seriously, Whip is 40ish - why is a 60ish year old on the cover?
The FMC and story? Meh
X - I'm here for it.
The 60 year old on the cover seriously lessened my enjoyment of Whip.
The FMC and story? Meh
X - I'm here for it.
The 60 year old on the cover seriously lessened my enjoyment of Whip.
September 13, 2025
Did i read this book in a day? Yes, yes i did. Am i wishing i had not devoured it so quick so it would last longer? Also, yes. But i couldn’t help myself. Falling back into Saint View is my favorite pastime.
“Oh, for the love of ducks and geese!”Hahahahaha.
Whips and Chains starting off with a bang & a little heartbreak.
My girl, Violet, is going through itttt. I can’t wait for her happily ever after with her found family. She deserves it all. 🥹❤️
Rebel & Fang to the rescueeee.
“Pix, the getaway driver is supposed to actually drive the car. Not antagonize the targets with threats on their reproductive organs.” 🤣🤣💀
Scythe & X are my favorite psycho duo lmfao.
“I’m kinda judging you for not judging! That’s not a kink, that’s messed up.” 🤣😭
I’ve said it before & I’ll probably keep on saying it with every new book, but i love how Elle portrays different families. Rebel’s family with their 5 kids makes me feel seen, all the chaos, the fun & the love. Then you have Augie & Ophelia being child free by choice. Eve needing IVF. There’s representation no matter what stage of life you’re in & that feels so important to me.
Violet needed Nyah. We love girls’ girls. Honestly hoping we get a Nyah & Dax book.
Listen, i LOVE Scythe, but I’m always so happy when Vincent makes an appearance.
6 stars, i loved it, its perfect. Let’s all bow down to the cliffhanger queen that is Elle Thorpe. Come on October, i need you here now more than ever. 😩
“Oh, for the love of ducks and geese!”Hahahahaha.
Whips and Chains starting off with a bang & a little heartbreak.
My girl, Violet, is going through itttt. I can’t wait for her happily ever after with her found family. She deserves it all. 🥹❤️
Rebel & Fang to the rescueeee.
“Pix, the getaway driver is supposed to actually drive the car. Not antagonize the targets with threats on their reproductive organs.” 🤣🤣💀
Scythe & X are my favorite psycho duo lmfao.
“I’m kinda judging you for not judging! That’s not a kink, that’s messed up.” 🤣😭
I’ve said it before & I’ll probably keep on saying it with every new book, but i love how Elle portrays different families. Rebel’s family with their 5 kids makes me feel seen, all the chaos, the fun & the love. Then you have Augie & Ophelia being child free by choice. Eve needing IVF. There’s representation no matter what stage of life you’re in & that feels so important to me.
Violet needed Nyah. We love girls’ girls. Honestly hoping we get a Nyah & Dax book.
Listen, i LOVE Scythe, but I’m always so happy when Vincent makes an appearance.
6 stars, i loved it, its perfect. Let’s all bow down to the cliffhanger queen that is Elle Thorpe. Come on October, i need you here now more than ever. 😩
November 12, 2025
I’ll do a review soon but I just need to say DO NOT do that with a beer bottle. Ever.
September 24, 2025
I don’t usually ever write reviews. I hate to say this, but I would have rated this much higher if it didn’t have to mention how “fat” she was constantly. To me personally it was just really annoying at the constant reminder. One of the quotes from her men being “you can be fat and beautiful “ is that really supposed to be a compliment? It just gave me the ick. If I remember right it said she was only like a size 12 I think. Some of the parts come off sounding like she is some morbidly obese woman. I’m all for curvy plus size mfc but this just kind of ruined it for me. I absolutely love everything else about the book though.
September 25, 2025
2.5 stars… I guess.
I would have given a higher rating if the plot wasn’t all filler and dragging out drama nonsensically. Violet was SO ANNOYING. So so SO freaking self indulgent and the confidence issues? Are we still dragging on about that, even after her best friend was killed? You can build drama in other ways. It just gets repetitive and boring to do silly things and gives the main characters very little credit. X was mildly funny but that was about it for decent humour. The chemistry between the guys was so forced and fake. Ugh, give me War and Scythe any day. I miss that. I gave the first book 3 stars because the plot was all over the place and Violet was annoying, and this was definitely worse.
I would have given a higher rating if the plot wasn’t all filler and dragging out drama nonsensically. Violet was SO ANNOYING. So so SO freaking self indulgent and the confidence issues? Are we still dragging on about that, even after her best friend was killed? You can build drama in other ways. It just gets repetitive and boring to do silly things and gives the main characters very little credit. X was mildly funny but that was about it for decent humour. The chemistry between the guys was so forced and fake. Ugh, give me War and Scythe any day. I miss that. I gave the first book 3 stars because the plot was all over the place and Violet was annoying, and this was definitely worse.
October 22, 2025
okay
Violet just made me not want to read the book. Everything she said and did made me zone out. Whip, X, and Levi characters were better. X is still my favorite character in this book.
Violet just made me not want to read the book. Everything she said and did made me zone out. Whip, X, and Levi characters were better. X is still my favorite character in this book.
November 10, 2025
DNFD at 30%
I enjoyed book 1 but in book 2 the FMC is starting to grate on me. I freaking love that shes 30, tall and curvy (finally!) but omg im fed up of her putting herself down CONSTANTLY despite having 3 gorgeous men chasing her. she's becoming more winy as the story goes. Not less. Shes also very judgey of others despite the fact she got her job at the club from these people. Think I just need to step away and maybe come back later
And killing Toby off???!! ffs
I freaking love X. hes like a stabby puppy 🥵
On another note what is with the awful book covers? why is Whip a 60 year old man??
I enjoyed book 1 but in book 2 the FMC is starting to grate on me. I freaking love that shes 30, tall and curvy (finally!) but omg im fed up of her putting herself down CONSTANTLY despite having 3 gorgeous men chasing her. she's becoming more winy as the story goes. Not less. Shes also very judgey of others despite the fact she got her job at the club from these people. Think I just need to step away and maybe come back later
And killing Toby off???!! ffs
I freaking love X. hes like a stabby puppy 🥵
On another note what is with the awful book covers? why is Whip a 60 year old man??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
ooooo, this book is very thrilling!
I'm was reading this on the edge of my seat
I cried more than twice 😭
the storyline is good
the jokes are the best
the banter is to die for.
and the spice is so hot!
and not to speak about the cliffhanger 🫣😱
I'm was reading this on the edge of my seat
I cried more than twice 😭
the storyline is good
the jokes are the best
the banter is to die for.
and the spice is so hot!
and not to speak about the cliffhanger 🫣😱
September 24, 2025
As with a lot of trilogies, this was mostly filler. A little bit plot, a little bit relationship development, a little bit characters from the other trilogies of Saint View, but mostly filler. Ending at the obvious cliffy. Can’t say i was expecting how that turned out though. Will read the next book.
September 14, 2025
Again Elle, are you trying to make me go crazy, just rip my heart out at the end again why don't you? The pain and joy all these books give me are so intense that all my emotions go haywire the second I open up one of Elle's books. The middle book of a trilogy will always be painful as you are so near to the end but more things come along to destroy your hope each time before it actually gets good good.
We resumed this book following a very traumatic ending of the first book to be even more traumatised with what Elle decided to open up with!! We definitely see a side of the guys, X, Levi and Whip that we did not see in the first and you can definitely see some sort of a foundation forming with Violet, all for it to get taken away from us at the end again, this will be a grudge I hold until I can get my hands on book number 3.
Elle is one of my favourite authors, dare I say top. Her books are always amazing and so hooking and she has given us so many books/series in Saint View, I feel like I have an address there now! But I love it every time and to be honest, the more traumatic and soul-ripping these books are the more I love them!
I loved the confidence boost we see in Violet in this book, that girl deserves the world and I love her too, maybe not as much as our three psychos do but don't want to confess it as of yet. I think the main point that stuck out to me is how misunderstood X really is to the other guys and Violet is just starting to see this and I for one love their moments together so much.
I can't wait for the third and final book of the Saint View Murder Squad series and will be eagerly waiting for that one!!
We resumed this book following a very traumatic ending of the first book to be even more traumatised with what Elle decided to open up with!! We definitely see a side of the guys, X, Levi and Whip that we did not see in the first and you can definitely see some sort of a foundation forming with Violet, all for it to get taken away from us at the end again, this will be a grudge I hold until I can get my hands on book number 3.
Elle is one of my favourite authors, dare I say top. Her books are always amazing and so hooking and she has given us so many books/series in Saint View, I feel like I have an address there now! But I love it every time and to be honest, the more traumatic and soul-ripping these books are the more I love them!
I loved the confidence boost we see in Violet in this book, that girl deserves the world and I love her too, maybe not as much as our three psychos do but don't want to confess it as of yet. I think the main point that stuck out to me is how misunderstood X really is to the other guys and Violet is just starting to see this and I for one love their moments together so much.
I can't wait for the third and final book of the Saint View Murder Squad series and will be eagerly waiting for that one!!
November 23, 2025
(hoopla)... I was actually super disappointed, if I'm being honest... because the first book was so funny! This one was like "let's dial down the humor and dial up the smut! Both to the extreme!" The entire plot line gets lost in mountains of sexual content. I really wanted to indulge in the story...the murder squad portion of it...that it's named for. But instead I found myself skipping over chapters and chapters of smut - including m/m. 🤦♀️ Not my jam.
November 16, 2025
Again. The cover is awful. The story is great.
January 21, 2026
Book 2
Book 2 wow that was a crazy ride and that ending omg not much else to say but book 3 here I come.
Book 2 wow that was a crazy ride and that ending omg not much else to say but book 3 here I come.
January 29, 2026
The cliff hangers are so huge they’re maddening. X is still funny but there wasn’t as much Mayhem in this one.
September 30, 2025
This book we learn a little more about each of the guys. We learn about Whip’s past and experience X’s family. Levi also gets better admitting his feelings. I hate that there was a cliffhanger and now I have to wait a couple of weeks. Violet is not top of my list of FMCs. I get she is trying to overcome her grief over Toby but stop putting yourself in these dangerous situations! I’m ready to see Levi and Whip’s relationship develop and I hope to see more scenes together.
November 6, 2025
I can't. I just can't. She's an imbecile. I love them 3 men. But they would never go for a brain dead flat dimensional women like her. All the conversion reverts back to her and her not being attractive enough. And making VERY STUPID decisions.
Plus, her relationship with Levi lacks so much chemistry. He's supposedly the first love but it is just assumed, not actually shown.
I so badly wanted to finish this series for X and whip. But I can't hate read her POV no more. And every time she's mentioned is for an idiot reason.
Plus, her relationship with Levi lacks so much chemistry. He's supposedly the first love but it is just assumed, not actually shown.
I so badly wanted to finish this series for X and whip. But I can't hate read her POV no more. And every time she's mentioned is for an idiot reason.
September 23, 2025
can you die by cliff hanger?? asking for a friend.....
November 4, 2025
UGH VIOLET. She was even more insufferable in this book. She has 3 HOT dudes literally obsessed with her, and she is still being insecure!??? I don’t want to hear it girl.
October 31, 2025
Stupid FMC.... Also, would have liked a warning about a genre in this book. probably wouldn't have picked it had I known.
November 23, 2025
first of all, Violet was SO ANNOYING .
i couldn’t enjoy the book after her best friend was killed.
i couldn’t enjoy the book after her best friend was killed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
• Dark Romcom
• Reverse harem
• Romantic suspense
• UNHINGED MMCs
• Prison Penpals
• High angst in the best way
• Saint View world
• Hilarious banter
• Neurodivergent MMC
• Tall and Curvy FMC
• MC romance
• Book 2out of 3
AHHHH!!! How am I going to survive until the release of book two?! Elle has this way of writing where you know a rough road is coming… but you can’t stop reading! And honestly, you’ll love every single second of it! But dang, do these cliffhangers hurt when waiting for the next book to drop. I'm a HUGE Elle Thorpe fan, and I'm just here for anything she will give us! I'm also thankful she rapid releases these amazing books
Dare I say... this might be my favorite trilogy of hers. I am absolutely and completely obsessed with these four! The first book set the stage and had me falling for them, but in this book, they’ve completely won my heart! It’s the sweet way they move as a team when taking care of Violet. Even when they aren’t 100% cool with one another, they push all that aside and put her first. These men cared for her, knowing exactly what Violet needed after everything that happened at the end of book one. It's one of my favorite things about Elle's trilogies. These men can be the worst of enemies, but when the woman they care for is hurting or upset, they push all of it away to be there for her!
Ahhhh!! I am also loving the relationship developing between Whip and Levi! It is balanced so well! And X's jokes about them are cracking me up! I am so excited to see where Elle takes their relationship in the next book!
We got to see some pretty vulnerable moments between each of these characters and understand them even more than we did in the first book. I loved the way Elle brought in each of their pasts, which helped you understand more of the demons each of them were fighting.
As emotional as this book did get, I do freakin’ love the playful banter and hilarious parts with X and the guys that balance it all out so well together!
I am so excited for the next book and already counting down the days!
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Duet multi-cast narration with sound effects.
Performance by:
Kelsey Navarro-Foster as Violet
Gregory Salinas as X
Sean Crisden as Whip
Theo Sinclair as Levi
The perfect cast does exist and somehow Elle always finds it! I am so obsessed with this cast. Each of them did such an incredible job bringing these characters to life! Every performance fit so perfectly!! All the emotion, tension, and banter couldn’t have been delivered any better.
Kelsey’s performance for Violet was so tender. She did such an incredible job bringing out both her soft and feisty side.
Gregory gave us THE PERFECT X! Gosh, where do I even begin. His performance as X was INSANE. I can't tell you how many times I didnt even feel like I was listening. Hands down one of my favorite performances of all time!
Sean’s voice fit Daddy Whip’s character so well! He brought out those mature and professional vibes Whip has so perfectly. And when Whip was annoyed with X, the tone of his voice was absolutely spot on!
This was my first time listening to Theo and I have already gone through a list of books he’s narrated and added them to my TBL! His performance as Levi was so well done. Out of all the characters, I think Levi was the most vulnerable, and Theo captured that side of him beautifully.
Also… Elle ending the book with sound effects in the last few chapter will never not be a favorite of mine! This audiobook was already a top performance for me, and then she threw in that!
I can’t recommend this book enough. But do yourself a favor and listen to it as an audiobook. Heck, immersive read it like I did, you won’t regret it!!
• Reverse harem
• Romantic suspense
• UNHINGED MMCs
• Prison Penpals
• High angst in the best way
• Saint View world
• Hilarious banter
• Neurodivergent MMC
• Tall and Curvy FMC
• MC romance
• Book 2out of 3
AHHHH!!! How am I going to survive until the release of book two?! Elle has this way of writing where you know a rough road is coming… but you can’t stop reading! And honestly, you’ll love every single second of it! But dang, do these cliffhangers hurt when waiting for the next book to drop. I'm a HUGE Elle Thorpe fan, and I'm just here for anything she will give us! I'm also thankful she rapid releases these amazing books
Dare I say... this might be my favorite trilogy of hers. I am absolutely and completely obsessed with these four! The first book set the stage and had me falling for them, but in this book, they’ve completely won my heart! It’s the sweet way they move as a team when taking care of Violet. Even when they aren’t 100% cool with one another, they push all that aside and put her first. These men cared for her, knowing exactly what Violet needed after everything that happened at the end of book one. It's one of my favorite things about Elle's trilogies. These men can be the worst of enemies, but when the woman they care for is hurting or upset, they push all of it away to be there for her!
Ahhhh!! I am also loving the relationship developing between Whip and Levi! It is balanced so well! And X's jokes about them are cracking me up! I am so excited to see where Elle takes their relationship in the next book!
We got to see some pretty vulnerable moments between each of these characters and understand them even more than we did in the first book. I loved the way Elle brought in each of their pasts, which helped you understand more of the demons each of them were fighting.
As emotional as this book did get, I do freakin’ love the playful banter and hilarious parts with X and the guys that balance it all out so well together!
I am so excited for the next book and already counting down the days!
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Duet multi-cast narration with sound effects.
Performance by:
Kelsey Navarro-Foster as Violet
Gregory Salinas as X
Sean Crisden as Whip
Theo Sinclair as Levi
The perfect cast does exist and somehow Elle always finds it! I am so obsessed with this cast. Each of them did such an incredible job bringing these characters to life! Every performance fit so perfectly!! All the emotion, tension, and banter couldn’t have been delivered any better.
Kelsey’s performance for Violet was so tender. She did such an incredible job bringing out both her soft and feisty side.
Gregory gave us THE PERFECT X! Gosh, where do I even begin. His performance as X was INSANE. I can't tell you how many times I didnt even feel like I was listening. Hands down one of my favorite performances of all time!
Sean’s voice fit Daddy Whip’s character so well! He brought out those mature and professional vibes Whip has so perfectly. And when Whip was annoyed with X, the tone of his voice was absolutely spot on!
This was my first time listening to Theo and I have already gone through a list of books he’s narrated and added them to my TBL! His performance as Levi was so well done. Out of all the characters, I think Levi was the most vulnerable, and Theo captured that side of him beautifully.
Also… Elle ending the book with sound effects in the last few chapter will never not be a favorite of mine! This audiobook was already a top performance for me, and then she threw in that!
I can’t recommend this book enough. But do yourself a favor and listen to it as an audiobook. Heck, immersive read it like I did, you won’t regret it!!
September 26, 2025
Thank you Elle for the ALC, i love being on your team and adore your writing!!
Whip's and Chain's is the second book in the saint view murder squad trilogy. It's a whychoose, dark romcom with a plus size fmc and psycho, protective and possessive mmc's. It follows our FMC violet, and of MMCs, Whip, Levi and X.
Whips and chains picked right up on where we left off, in the warehouse and i honestly did not expect toby to do that, i was so shocked. Whips and Chains was an absolute roller coaster of emotions, and i loved every minute of it. I laughed so hard at x's antics, cried so much at the emotional parts and i even got annoyed at times. I fell even more in love with x, he is definitely my favourite mmc elle has written (soz scythe) The X, Whip and Levi trio is my favourite gang. their banter had me laughing out loud. I adore how X’s completely unhinged personality drives Whip and Levi up the wall. And the tension between Whip and Levi was so sharp it could literally cut GLASS, however i need more of them.
there were times when Whip and Levi really pissed me off. Don’t get me wrong i love their characters and their dynamic with X, but the way they treated him towards the end, was so uncalled for. My poor X didn’t deserve that kind of harshness after everything he’s done for them. It honestly broke my heart seeing him brushed off like that. I really hope we get a redemption arc or at least some heartfelt apologies in the next book, because I need that rift healed for my own sanity.
The spice in this book was SO GOOD, we got so so many unforgettable scenes, from Whip and Levi in the camera room, to Levi “breaking” into Fang’s house just to be with Violet (that whole makeup scene had me swooning), the infamous beer bottle moment with Whip, Levi, and Violet. And of course, I can’t forget X and Violet in the camera room at Psychos. It added so much intensity to the story and relationships!! Oh we gotta talk about Nyah, i love her i need more of her and i hope we see more of her in the next book or even her own 👀
AND THAT CLIFFHANGER, OH MY GOSH. The sound effects in the audiobook had me covered in goosebumbs, the way i completely sobbed so hard, HE CANT SWIM!! I CANT... the naration was so perfectly narrated by Gregory Sallias, Theo Sinclair, Sean Crisden and Kelsey Navarro Foster, they all fit the characters perfectly!! and Sean Crisden saying 'Good Girl" in his gravelly voice has me obsessed!!
Whip's and Chain's is the second book in the saint view murder squad trilogy. It's a whychoose, dark romcom with a plus size fmc and psycho, protective and possessive mmc's. It follows our FMC violet, and of MMCs, Whip, Levi and X.
Whips and chains picked right up on where we left off, in the warehouse and i honestly did not expect toby to do that, i was so shocked. Whips and Chains was an absolute roller coaster of emotions, and i loved every minute of it. I laughed so hard at x's antics, cried so much at the emotional parts and i even got annoyed at times. I fell even more in love with x, he is definitely my favourite mmc elle has written (soz scythe) The X, Whip and Levi trio is my favourite gang. their banter had me laughing out loud. I adore how X’s completely unhinged personality drives Whip and Levi up the wall. And the tension between Whip and Levi was so sharp it could literally cut GLASS, however i need more of them.
there were times when Whip and Levi really pissed me off. Don’t get me wrong i love their characters and their dynamic with X, but the way they treated him towards the end, was so uncalled for. My poor X didn’t deserve that kind of harshness after everything he’s done for them. It honestly broke my heart seeing him brushed off like that. I really hope we get a redemption arc or at least some heartfelt apologies in the next book, because I need that rift healed for my own sanity.
The spice in this book was SO GOOD, we got so so many unforgettable scenes, from Whip and Levi in the camera room, to Levi “breaking” into Fang’s house just to be with Violet (that whole makeup scene had me swooning), the infamous beer bottle moment with Whip, Levi, and Violet. And of course, I can’t forget X and Violet in the camera room at Psychos. It added so much intensity to the story and relationships!! Oh we gotta talk about Nyah, i love her i need more of her and i hope we see more of her in the next book or even her own 👀
AND THAT CLIFFHANGER, OH MY GOSH. The sound effects in the audiobook had me covered in goosebumbs, the way i completely sobbed so hard, HE CANT SWIM!! I CANT... the naration was so perfectly narrated by Gregory Sallias, Theo Sinclair, Sean Crisden and Kelsey Navarro Foster, they all fit the characters perfectly!! and Sean Crisden saying 'Good Girl" in his gravelly voice has me obsessed!!
September 19, 2025
Elle Thorpe will always be a go to author for me. This universe she has created will always remain one of my favourites, and honestly I just hope it keeps going🤭
This book picks up right where the last book left off and lets just say my heart absolutely broke for Violet😭
In this book we definitely start to see a solid foundation start to form between our MMCs when it comes to Violet. But the one thing that stuck out for me was how Violet is starting to see another side to X. Yes he may have crazy tendencies but the guy is a real softie at heart - and it was ever so heartwarming when he introduced Violet to his family 🥰.
Slowly but surely Violet is starting to become more confident in herself, she has lots of support in this book from her brother Fang and Rebel, rebel is a woman who is ready to defend Violet at any moment. It is adorable that she is getting to know her nieces and nephews also🥹 I love the friendship she is forming with Nyah - speaking of I really do hope there’s a Nyah and Dax book on the cards👀
Not only are things heating up between Violet and her men but Whip and Levi have some unfinished business with each 😮💨
Before I finish I just wanna mention X and Scythe are my favourite duo✨
Of course this is book two of a trilogy so there is a cliffhanger and I need the next book nowww, unfortunately that won’t happen so I’ll patiently wait till October until the conclusion of the trilogy is here.
Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
This book picks up right where the last book left off and lets just say my heart absolutely broke for Violet😭
In this book we definitely start to see a solid foundation start to form between our MMCs when it comes to Violet. But the one thing that stuck out for me was how Violet is starting to see another side to X. Yes he may have crazy tendencies but the guy is a real softie at heart - and it was ever so heartwarming when he introduced Violet to his family 🥰.
Slowly but surely Violet is starting to become more confident in herself, she has lots of support in this book from her brother Fang and Rebel, rebel is a woman who is ready to defend Violet at any moment. It is adorable that she is getting to know her nieces and nephews also🥹 I love the friendship she is forming with Nyah - speaking of I really do hope there’s a Nyah and Dax book on the cards👀
Not only are things heating up between Violet and her men but Whip and Levi have some unfinished business with each 😮💨
Before I finish I just wanna mention X and Scythe are my favourite duo✨
Of course this is book two of a trilogy so there is a cliffhanger and I need the next book nowww, unfortunately that won’t happen so I’ll patiently wait till October until the conclusion of the trilogy is here.
Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
September 22, 2025
if you have a fantasy of Ellen Francis Thorpe stretching your nipples really far away from your body, nailing them to a cutting board and then wacking them off with a butcher knife.. then BOY do i have the cliffhanger for you.
but, i’m getting ahead of myself. let me tell you how she will tease you into oblivion, before the previously mentioned catastrophic nipple event.
This book series continues to be absolutely fucking delicious. Lick the residuals off your fingers type of delicious. Just absolutely fucking delectable. Not to mention, the sweet, sweet burning embers of MM have begun people. DADDY WHIP, DADDY WHIP. Man to be a spectator to that show. The three of these guys are absolutely perfect. not to mention chiseled, funny, sarcastic, totally ripped, absolutely murderous, but also kind of simultaneously in a golden retriever type of way… Don’t question me OK
Pick up the book. Binge it. And then come say thank you….And then after you say thank you I’ll apologize on behalf of Ellen for her outrageous cliffhanger.
now, im off to slumber with dreams of doing naked cartwheels onto the also naked laps of Levi, X and Whip 🤸🏽♀️
but, i’m getting ahead of myself. let me tell you how she will tease you into oblivion, before the previously mentioned catastrophic nipple event.
This book series continues to be absolutely fucking delicious. Lick the residuals off your fingers type of delicious. Just absolutely fucking delectable. Not to mention, the sweet, sweet burning embers of MM have begun people. DADDY WHIP, DADDY WHIP. Man to be a spectator to that show. The three of these guys are absolutely perfect. not to mention chiseled, funny, sarcastic, totally ripped, absolutely murderous, but also kind of simultaneously in a golden retriever type of way… Don’t question me OK
Pick up the book. Binge it. And then come say thank you….And then after you say thank you I’ll apologize on behalf of Ellen for her outrageous cliffhanger.
now, im off to slumber with dreams of doing naked cartwheels onto the also naked laps of Levi, X and Whip 🤸🏽♀️
October 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ | 🎧 ACL Review
Whips and Chains (book 2 of the Murder Squad trilogy) throws us right back into the chaos where X’s and O’s left off—and wow, Elle did not hold back. This book is packed with action, high stakes, and of course, plenty of spice. But what I loved just as much were the softer, sweeter moments between Violet and her men—those little glimpses of vulnerability that make this found-family style harem so addictive.
And can we talk about the MM moments? 👀 They had me kicking my feet, giggling, and grinning like an idiot. The chemistry between all of them is next-level, and Elle balances the chaos, darkness, and sweetness so well.
In true Elle Thorpe fashion, this book ends with a MASSIVE cliffhanger that left me screaming for book 3. The wait is going to be torture, but I know it’ll be worth it.
🎧 The audiobook made the story even better—multicast narration always makes reverse harems feel more immersive, and I loved hearing the inflections and emotional punches land exactly as intended. Truly brought the story to life.
If you love dark romance, spice, and a side of absolute chaos, Whips and Chains delivers. Now… Elle, about that book 3 release date 👀🔥
✨ Thanks to Elle Thorpe and her team for the privilege of reading this as an advanced reader copy! As always, my thoughts are entirely my own—being gifted this book does not affect my review. I’m simply honored to have had the opportunity. ✨
Whips and Chains (book 2 of the Murder Squad trilogy) throws us right back into the chaos where X’s and O’s left off—and wow, Elle did not hold back. This book is packed with action, high stakes, and of course, plenty of spice. But what I loved just as much were the softer, sweeter moments between Violet and her men—those little glimpses of vulnerability that make this found-family style harem so addictive.
And can we talk about the MM moments? 👀 They had me kicking my feet, giggling, and grinning like an idiot. The chemistry between all of them is next-level, and Elle balances the chaos, darkness, and sweetness so well.
In true Elle Thorpe fashion, this book ends with a MASSIVE cliffhanger that left me screaming for book 3. The wait is going to be torture, but I know it’ll be worth it.
🎧 The audiobook made the story even better—multicast narration always makes reverse harems feel more immersive, and I loved hearing the inflections and emotional punches land exactly as intended. Truly brought the story to life.
If you love dark romance, spice, and a side of absolute chaos, Whips and Chains delivers. Now… Elle, about that book 3 release date 👀🔥
✨ Thanks to Elle Thorpe and her team for the privilege of reading this as an advanced reader copy! As always, my thoughts are entirely my own—being gifted this book does not affect my review. I’m simply honored to have had the opportunity. ✨
September 15, 2025
4.5 stars
This is book #2 in the Saint View Murder Squad trilogy featuring X, Levi, Whip and Violet. You need to read book #1 (X’s and O’s) first.
OMG. This is super emotional from the first chapter! I enjoyed this story so much — even more than the first book. I felt like I really got to know the MMCs more. Plus, their love for Violet- chef’s kiss. They would do anything for her.
X’s banter with Whip and Levi is still top notch. It provides for some much needed comic relief.
This book is super spicy, including some MM spice and MFM spice. I didn’t think it was just thrown into the story just to have it and it contributed to the plot. Someone is out to get Violet and her men.
Ugh. This ends in a cliffhanger. I knew it going into it, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it! LOL I need book three now, please! Gut-wrenching!
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is book #2 in the Saint View Murder Squad trilogy featuring X, Levi, Whip and Violet. You need to read book #1 (X’s and O’s) first.
OMG. This is super emotional from the first chapter! I enjoyed this story so much — even more than the first book. I felt like I really got to know the MMCs more. Plus, their love for Violet- chef’s kiss. They would do anything for her.
X’s banter with Whip and Levi is still top notch. It provides for some much needed comic relief.
This book is super spicy, including some MM spice and MFM spice. I didn’t think it was just thrown into the story just to have it and it contributed to the plot. Someone is out to get Violet and her men.
Ugh. This ends in a cliffhanger. I knew it going into it, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it! LOL I need book three now, please! Gut-wrenching!
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
3 ��
Dark Romance
Why Choose
Motorcycle Club
Comedic Relief MMC
Plus Sized, Virgin FMC
Age Gap
Prison Pen Pals
Suspense
Tragic Pasts
Loss & Grief
Found Family
Cliffhanger
⚠️Although this book contains a comedic character that provides plenty of LOL moments, this is a dark romance and contains dark themes. Please check content/trigger warnings.⚠️
This series is so much fun!! It features all that I love from Elle’s dark, why choose romances, but she’s added lots of fun with a comedic relief MMC in this one! This is book two of Elle’s new series, the Saint View Murder Squad. We pick up right we left off from book one, on a countdown. I definitely wasn’t expecting to cry reading this one, but I shouldn’t have been surprised that I was, and within the first few chapters. We get to know all our characters on a deeper level, while also developing relationships. These characters have a lot of things to work through personally and together. There is also still someone trying to take down the Murder Squad, and they have to find out who it is before they all end up dead. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough. Now, I am so ready for Reaper and Ruin and the conclusion to this trilogy, because of course Elle literally threw us off the cliff!! (Hello another cliffhanger) 🤣
Thank you Elle Thorpe for the ARC!
3 ��
Dark Romance
Why Choose
Motorcycle Club
Comedic Relief MMC
Plus Sized, Virgin FMC
Age Gap
Prison Pen Pals
Suspense
Tragic Pasts
Loss & Grief
Found Family
Cliffhanger
⚠️Although this book contains a comedic character that provides plenty of LOL moments, this is a dark romance and contains dark themes. Please check content/trigger warnings.⚠️
This series is so much fun!! It features all that I love from Elle’s dark, why choose romances, but she’s added lots of fun with a comedic relief MMC in this one! This is book two of Elle’s new series, the Saint View Murder Squad. We pick up right we left off from book one, on a countdown. I definitely wasn’t expecting to cry reading this one, but I shouldn’t have been surprised that I was, and within the first few chapters. We get to know all our characters on a deeper level, while also developing relationships. These characters have a lot of things to work through personally and together. There is also still someone trying to take down the Murder Squad, and they have to find out who it is before they all end up dead. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough. Now, I am so ready for Reaper and Ruin and the conclusion to this trilogy, because of course Elle literally threw us off the cliff!! (Hello another cliffhanger) 🤣
Thank you Elle Thorpe for the ARC!
September 19, 2025
I have been waiting for this book since after I read the first one and I think Elle is actually trying to off me. This book started off where the last one left off and let me tell you it was definitely something. I think my emotions have definitely been through the ringer with this one. I read this in one day because couldn't put it down.
I just love Violet so much. She definitely deserves the world and you can see her gaining more and more confidence. This girl has been through so much and my heart breaks for her. So glad she has Whip, Levi, and X watching out for her.
So much happens in this book and we get more of Whip and X which I love.
Whip is the smexy silver fox, X is so funny and has me chuckling so much, and Levi is just swoon. You will be clutching your e reader or book when reading this and maybe wanting to throw it across the room especially after that cliffhanger but believe me so worth it. I cannot wait for Book 3!!
I just love Violet so much. She definitely deserves the world and you can see her gaining more and more confidence. This girl has been through so much and my heart breaks for her. So glad she has Whip, Levi, and X watching out for her.
So much happens in this book and we get more of Whip and X which I love.
Whip is the smexy silver fox, X is so funny and has me chuckling so much, and Levi is just swoon. You will be clutching your e reader or book when reading this and maybe wanting to throw it across the room especially after that cliffhanger but believe me so worth it. I cannot wait for Book 3!!
September 15, 2025
This book absolutely wrecked me in the BEST way. The cliffhanger?? Elle is actually evil but I love her for it 😭 I was super excited that we got to dive more into Whip’s and X’s personal lives and pasts it made me feel even more connected to them and don’t even get me started on the slow burn attraction that’s heating up between Whip and Levi 👀🫢 I was eating that up while my jaw was on the floor. X had me giggling nonstop like a schoolgirl, and Whip had me DROOLING (I will devour a silver fox) and then there’s Levi he is such a slay of a man. When he finally confessed his love to Violet (IVE BEV WAITING FOR THIS😭) I swear I melted into a puddle I just wanted to curl up with him and never let go 🥹
I know for sure Saint View Murder Squad will be the best book series I have ever read just based off the first 2 books!
I know for sure Saint View Murder Squad will be the best book series I have ever read just based off the first 2 books!
January 11, 2026
Elle Thorpe is *killing* me with these cliffhangers. THIS one especially.
Our lovely FMC is still battling herself over her self image, but slowly growing to love herself.
There's an ongoing mystery with Let's Play a Game vibes.
The why choose aspect is evolving in many ways. Whip and Reaper's tension through the roof. X continuing to be comical at the least opportune times.
X constantly has the short end with awful timing. I fear by the end of this, he'll carry a lot of guilt on his shoulders.
All being said? Violet has been through it. Continues to go through it in making some..interesting decisions. I totally understand needing resolution and putting an end to someone who harmed a loved one, terrorized you and them... but ... her self preservation isn't the best. 😅😅😅
I need to know how this trilogy ends.
Our lovely FMC is still battling herself over her self image, but slowly growing to love herself.
There's an ongoing mystery with Let's Play a Game vibes.
The why choose aspect is evolving in many ways. Whip and Reaper's tension through the roof. X continuing to be comical at the least opportune times.
X constantly has the short end with awful timing. I fear by the end of this, he'll carry a lot of guilt on his shoulders.
All being said? Violet has been through it. Continues to go through it in making some..interesting decisions. I totally understand needing resolution and putting an end to someone who harmed a loved one, terrorized you and them... but ... her self preservation isn't the best. 😅😅😅
I need to know how this trilogy ends.
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