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Breaking Free #1
The Care of Broken Things
Some loves rewrite your sentence.
Samuel has spent years building walls. Not the prison’s concrete ones, but the kind that keep lives from bleeding into each other. The inmates call him The Ice Queen—a title he wears like armor. After a lifetime of being preyed upon, he knows better than to let anyone close.
Then Eli arrives like sunlight through bulletproof glass.
A wrongfully convicted pediatrician. Gentle. Kind. Everything Samuel’s learned to avoid. But when Samuel steps in to protect him, it’s supposed to be a one-time act of mercy.
Eli’s husband has another plan.
Nathaniel—who looks at Samuel like he’s something more than a convict—makes a request that changes
Be his prison husband. Love him where I can’t.
Samuel agrees. He’s good at pretending. But the more he plays the role, the harder it is to stay cold. Eli’s warmth seeps in. Nathaniel’s quiet steadiness cuts deep. And the whispered trust of Eli’s daughter is the most fragile thing Samuel’s ever held.
Now, the man who survived on silence is hoarding their love like contraband.
A dark, literary MMM romance filled with found family, prison walls, obsessive devotion, and the kind of love that breaks you open.
Perfect for fans of Captive Prince, Wolfsong, and The Foxhole Court.
If you’ve ever felt too broken to be loved—this is for you.
Samuel has spent years building walls. Not the prison’s concrete ones, but the kind that keep lives from bleeding into each other. The inmates call him The Ice Queen—a title he wears like armor. After a lifetime of being preyed upon, he knows better than to let anyone close.
Then Eli arrives like sunlight through bulletproof glass.
A wrongfully convicted pediatrician. Gentle. Kind. Everything Samuel’s learned to avoid. But when Samuel steps in to protect him, it’s supposed to be a one-time act of mercy.
Eli’s husband has another plan.
Nathaniel—who looks at Samuel like he’s something more than a convict—makes a request that changes
Be his prison husband. Love him where I can’t.
Samuel agrees. He’s good at pretending. But the more he plays the role, the harder it is to stay cold. Eli’s warmth seeps in. Nathaniel’s quiet steadiness cuts deep. And the whispered trust of Eli’s daughter is the most fragile thing Samuel’s ever held.
Now, the man who survived on silence is hoarding their love like contraband.
A dark, literary MMM romance filled with found family, prison walls, obsessive devotion, and the kind of love that breaks you open.
Perfect for fans of Captive Prince, Wolfsong, and The Foxhole Court.
If you’ve ever felt too broken to be loved—this is for you.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
24 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
October Arden
7 books17 followersOctober Arden writes emotionally raw queer stories that live somewhere between literary fiction and romance. Their work explores fluid identities, found families, co-dependent devotion, and complicated love—often through the lens of characters who are chronically ill, neurodivergent, or quietly self-destructive. These are stories for anyone who's ever felt unwanted or unseen, where even the most damaged hearts can find a home.
October loves hearing from readers, so feel free to reach out, ask questions, or suggest what you'd like to see next. You can also join the newsletter to stay in touch—and as a thank you, you'll receive a free copy of Starting with Cake, a quietly unhinged neurodivergent love story full of snack cakes, janitor uniforms, and the kind of care that sneaks up on you. Find out about new books and other extras at octoberarden.com
October loves hearing from readers, so feel free to reach out, ask questions, or suggest what you'd like to see next. You can also join the newsletter to stay in touch—and as a thank you, you'll receive a free copy of Starting with Cake, a quietly unhinged neurodivergent love story full of snack cakes, janitor uniforms, and the kind of care that sneaks up on you. Find out about new books and other extras at octoberarden.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 9, 2025
DNF @ 51%
Waking up the day after reading this feels like the literary equivalent of a one night stand you regret. This was terrible and I'm not sure the author understands what prison even is.
I was sending Cody so many quotes because I was going insane reading but it was like I couldn't stop?
The book's comped to Wolfsong but instead of "candy canes, pinecones and awesome", it's more like "cocoa nibs, aids, and grooming"
A few examples of things that made me pause and go "what? No? That's... no":
- one of the love interests, Eli, being introduced by calling him "black as cocoa nibs"
- Eli entering the prison, going into the rec room and greeting a bunch of prisoners by cheerily waving and going "pleasure to meet you all"
- the MC, Samuel, joking that a pair of prison underwear was "riddled with aids" [lower case]
- Eli introducing Samuel, a fellow prisoner he's known for less than a week and who he knows is a murderer, to his husband during visiting hours, only for the husband to immediately ask Samuel to take Eli as his "prison husband"
- a near threesome in the visitors room of a prison, in front of guards and fellow prisoners
Waking up the day after reading this feels like the literary equivalent of a one night stand you regret. This was terrible and I'm not sure the author understands what prison even is.
I was sending Cody so many quotes because I was going insane reading but it was like I couldn't stop?
The book's comped to Wolfsong but instead of "candy canes, pinecones and awesome", it's more like "cocoa nibs, aids, and grooming"
A few examples of things that made me pause and go "what? No? That's... no":
- one of the love interests, Eli, being introduced by calling him "black as cocoa nibs"
- Eli entering the prison, going into the rec room and greeting a bunch of prisoners by cheerily waving and going "pleasure to meet you all"
- the MC, Samuel, joking that a pair of prison underwear was "riddled with aids" [lower case]
- Eli introducing Samuel, a fellow prisoner he's known for less than a week and who he knows is a murderer, to his husband during visiting hours, only for the husband to immediately ask Samuel to take Eli as his "prison husband"
- a near threesome in the visitors room of a prison, in front of guards and fellow prisoners
August 4, 2025
READ THIS BOOK! Let's see, angst, found family, character development, the human psyche and enrichment, oh and of course an over-arching slow-burn love story that crescendos with a new MMM relationship (which I didn't really expect when I started reading this book). Lovely secondary characters, and yes, gritty prison backgrounds, some violence, a SA origin story that is heart-rending but integral to the plot; no explicit sex, but some Heat. Does that get your attention? Don't be scared, and definitely don't be put off, you need to experience this lovely book. The only prison book I've read before was 'Birdman of Alcatraz' and that was after seeing the beautiful Burt Lancaster 1962 film on TV; I don't think 'The Count of Monte Cristo', 'The Man in the Iron Mask' or 'The Prisoner of Zenda' really count. Prison films, 'Fortune and Men's Eyes' or 'Brubaker'; even the wonderful HBO 'Oz' series years ago didn't really prepare me. OK, I'm a newbie; a 'Candide', open to the experience but naive and a bit stand-offish; a prude. Don't judge me, I'm an evolving man. I read this yesterday, all in one sitting, with occasional breaks for coffee, bathroom, eating. Have tissues available, even if your emotionally stunted, like me (I learned to cry after my father's death, thank god for therapy). Wet eyes are part of the experience, I've even had some today preparing for this review. I don't cry easily, just Hallmark commercials and children's laughter; cats and dogs.
- Samuel, quiet, broken, the prison librarian; early trauma has created walls, wary of possible predators and attacks he lives as quietly as possible, though he can be violent if threatened, or to make a point. He doesn't think of himself as capable of love, of being loved; only his little sister Jenny is allowed close, she can visit him. Tall, muscular, blonde/blue-eyed, he doesn't have a sense of his own beauty, external or internal. Inmates call him the 'Ice Queen' as no one is allowed in. The novel is told by him, through him, his experience, he is the Protagonist.
- Eli, taller, black and beautiful, a doctor wrongly incarcerated, affable, too nice, talks to anyone that asks him a question or a diagnoses; he needs protecting, he is vulnerable because he is open and trusting, knows nothing of protecting himself in prison. Samuel is drawn to him, first for his beauty, then for his vulnerability; Samuel doesn't acknowledge his own attraction, it isn't what he wants, and when he does realize he fights it, all the while catering to Eli, protecting him from the predators that he himself is afraid-of. Samuel, for the first time in years is growing beyond himself, is awakening; is concerned about another.
- These men protect each other, fostering in each other a bond beyond friendship, a nurturing that is awesome to read, to feel. Eli has Celiac disease, requires a special diet or he will grow deathly ill; he is married to Nathaniel, has an 11 year old daughter Hailey (smart and protective, generous and trusting); Samuel's world expands with all these characters; they visit him, write him, phone him.
- Nathaniel's request, that Samuel continue protecting Eli by claiming him as his 'prison husband' is improbable to Sam, he can't believe it will work, that he is asked to do this; if only Nate knew of his own secret desires, which he is keeping to himself. But, Nathaniel does know, his husband has always had followers, fans, those that adore him for his beauty, his personality. He intimates that Sam loves Eli, before Samuel is even really aware of it himself. Nate knows, understands, uses it as a tool, a necessary evil, accepts it even if it causes him pain. Nathaniel is a practical man, pragmatic and accepting, he deals with his own insecurities, his own jealousy, he at one point tells Sam he had hated him, but has learned to deal with it. Now, he always tells Sam he loves him, he is grateful to him; he worries about Sam, not just Eli, his feelings grow throughout the novel, he is truthful and real, even if Sam can't accept it fully.
- All the characters grow, all of them worry about and protect each other; Sam, Eli, Nathaniel, Hailey (who becomes Sam's pen-pal, his first adult 'friendship'; Sam loves her as well) and his sister Jenny, and even Nathaniel's wary brother; they all have their place in this story, in this found family.
- As the book proceeds, there are dangerous situations, medical crises, legal issues. The sentence structure changes 2/3s in, from matter-of-fact with some introspection, reflecting changes in Sam, in his growing acceptance that he is loved, and his reticence in believing he worthy. When Sam is reflecting, thinking, he is given to long stream of consciousness realizations, sometimes a bit hard to follow; this is the only quibble I have with this book, but it has minimal impact on the plot, and sometimes is used when he is not completely conscious, dreaming, musing; he has problems with self-acceptance and his own self-worth. He has never accepted that he can be loved, till now. The support of Jenny, Eli, and surprisingly more important, Nathan, and the wonderful Hailey all help him to be stronger, more emotionally available, more human than ever. Found family; maybe MMM is a viable possibility.
- Excuse me while I move on to Arden's epilogue 'Boyfriend on Parole.' Where are my tissues?
- Samuel, quiet, broken, the prison librarian; early trauma has created walls, wary of possible predators and attacks he lives as quietly as possible, though he can be violent if threatened, or to make a point. He doesn't think of himself as capable of love, of being loved; only his little sister Jenny is allowed close, she can visit him. Tall, muscular, blonde/blue-eyed, he doesn't have a sense of his own beauty, external or internal. Inmates call him the 'Ice Queen' as no one is allowed in. The novel is told by him, through him, his experience, he is the Protagonist.
- Eli, taller, black and beautiful, a doctor wrongly incarcerated, affable, too nice, talks to anyone that asks him a question or a diagnoses; he needs protecting, he is vulnerable because he is open and trusting, knows nothing of protecting himself in prison. Samuel is drawn to him, first for his beauty, then for his vulnerability; Samuel doesn't acknowledge his own attraction, it isn't what he wants, and when he does realize he fights it, all the while catering to Eli, protecting him from the predators that he himself is afraid-of. Samuel, for the first time in years is growing beyond himself, is awakening; is concerned about another.
- These men protect each other, fostering in each other a bond beyond friendship, a nurturing that is awesome to read, to feel. Eli has Celiac disease, requires a special diet or he will grow deathly ill; he is married to Nathaniel, has an 11 year old daughter Hailey (smart and protective, generous and trusting); Samuel's world expands with all these characters; they visit him, write him, phone him.
- Nathaniel's request, that Samuel continue protecting Eli by claiming him as his 'prison husband' is improbable to Sam, he can't believe it will work, that he is asked to do this; if only Nate knew of his own secret desires, which he is keeping to himself. But, Nathaniel does know, his husband has always had followers, fans, those that adore him for his beauty, his personality. He intimates that Sam loves Eli, before Samuel is even really aware of it himself. Nate knows, understands, uses it as a tool, a necessary evil, accepts it even if it causes him pain. Nathaniel is a practical man, pragmatic and accepting, he deals with his own insecurities, his own jealousy, he at one point tells Sam he had hated him, but has learned to deal with it. Now, he always tells Sam he loves him, he is grateful to him; he worries about Sam, not just Eli, his feelings grow throughout the novel, he is truthful and real, even if Sam can't accept it fully.
- All the characters grow, all of them worry about and protect each other; Sam, Eli, Nathaniel, Hailey (who becomes Sam's pen-pal, his first adult 'friendship'; Sam loves her as well) and his sister Jenny, and even Nathaniel's wary brother; they all have their place in this story, in this found family.
- As the book proceeds, there are dangerous situations, medical crises, legal issues. The sentence structure changes 2/3s in, from matter-of-fact with some introspection, reflecting changes in Sam, in his growing acceptance that he is loved, and his reticence in believing he worthy. When Sam is reflecting, thinking, he is given to long stream of consciousness realizations, sometimes a bit hard to follow; this is the only quibble I have with this book, but it has minimal impact on the plot, and sometimes is used when he is not completely conscious, dreaming, musing; he has problems with self-acceptance and his own self-worth. He has never accepted that he can be loved, till now. The support of Jenny, Eli, and surprisingly more important, Nathan, and the wonderful Hailey all help him to be stronger, more emotionally available, more human than ever. Found family; maybe MMM is a viable possibility.
- Excuse me while I move on to Arden's epilogue 'Boyfriend on Parole.' Where are my tissues?
August 10, 2025
The first book I read by this author was The Needs of Human Pets, and it got me hooked on her writing. Her books are quite unusual, deeper and more thought-provoking than the average MM romance, with complicated characters and situations that require concentration at times to sort things out in your mind (or mine, at least). Characters are engaging and compelling, drawing you in quickly, pulling you deep into the story, as if you are there with them in the location and situation, almost a participant rather than just an observer.
This book did the same thing, introducing me to Samuel and his situation in prison, his cocky attitude, not backing down, while suppressing the fear always hidden behind the facade. We learn bits about why he’s in prison, get hints about the backstory, but never details about the actual crime, feel deeply his characterization of himself as nothing but a murderer, and can feel his wariness, fear of touch, his loneliness, and his anger when he goes to another place in his mind. When Eli appears as a new prisoner, he is stunned by his beauty, his gentleness, and his innocence in this new situation. Samuel has learned over the years to keep to himself, yet finds himself stepping in to protect the newcomer, not even sure why. When Nathaniel, Eli’s husband, asks Sam to be Eli’s prison husband to protect him in prison, he doesn’t know how to process that, but reluctantly agrees. Over the months together, we see sides of Samuel changing, days he used to just hide to get through, he now enjoys and looks forward to being with Eli, always on alert and watchful, but much more present. He is developing a relationship also with Nathaniel and Hailey, Eli’s daughter, as well as Nat’s brother, giving him a found family along with his sister Jenny. Eli, too, is changing and showing sides of himself that Sam has not seen before. There are definitely challenges in prison, it can be a very violent and dangerous place, but Sam and Eli have each other’s backs.
The book captured me from the beginning, and I found it hard to put down. I was surprised to an extent by the ending, but yet not, as it seemed a fitting place to stop. There was so much in this book to ponder and sift through in my mind, I will be revisiting it in my head for quite awhile. Luckily, the author has written an extended epilogue to the book to find out what happens after the book ended, so I am anxious to read it, too.
It is hard to do justice to the book without making it too long and drawn out or give things away, but I definitely would recommend this book for a gritty prison novel that doesn’t seem to shy away from things that happen in prisons but doesn’t go too deeply, either. October’s writing will grab you and pull her into this world, and let you out on the other side with more understanding, maybe empathy, and a sense of knowing these characters well, seeing them in new ways, and having a feeling of satisfaction at where things are going from here. Definitely 5 stars from me.
This book did the same thing, introducing me to Samuel and his situation in prison, his cocky attitude, not backing down, while suppressing the fear always hidden behind the facade. We learn bits about why he’s in prison, get hints about the backstory, but never details about the actual crime, feel deeply his characterization of himself as nothing but a murderer, and can feel his wariness, fear of touch, his loneliness, and his anger when he goes to another place in his mind. When Eli appears as a new prisoner, he is stunned by his beauty, his gentleness, and his innocence in this new situation. Samuel has learned over the years to keep to himself, yet finds himself stepping in to protect the newcomer, not even sure why. When Nathaniel, Eli’s husband, asks Sam to be Eli’s prison husband to protect him in prison, he doesn’t know how to process that, but reluctantly agrees. Over the months together, we see sides of Samuel changing, days he used to just hide to get through, he now enjoys and looks forward to being with Eli, always on alert and watchful, but much more present. He is developing a relationship also with Nathaniel and Hailey, Eli’s daughter, as well as Nat’s brother, giving him a found family along with his sister Jenny. Eli, too, is changing and showing sides of himself that Sam has not seen before. There are definitely challenges in prison, it can be a very violent and dangerous place, but Sam and Eli have each other’s backs.
The book captured me from the beginning, and I found it hard to put down. I was surprised to an extent by the ending, but yet not, as it seemed a fitting place to stop. There was so much in this book to ponder and sift through in my mind, I will be revisiting it in my head for quite awhile. Luckily, the author has written an extended epilogue to the book to find out what happens after the book ended, so I am anxious to read it, too.
It is hard to do justice to the book without making it too long and drawn out or give things away, but I definitely would recommend this book for a gritty prison novel that doesn’t seem to shy away from things that happen in prisons but doesn’t go too deeply, either. October’s writing will grab you and pull her into this world, and let you out on the other side with more understanding, maybe empathy, and a sense of knowing these characters well, seeing them in new ways, and having a feeling of satisfaction at where things are going from here. Definitely 5 stars from me.
August 5, 2025
What a slow beautiful burn
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
Wow, what a read this author is brand-new to me and I wasn’t sure what kind of book I was gonna read. This book is going to take you through every emotion you possibly can go through. It takes place in a prison and this is where we meet Samuel he is in for murder and he is known by the inmates as the ice queen. He fault his way to earn that respect and under the name ice cream because he never took care of his own needs while in prison. Was never interested in that. That was until Eli walked in the prison. Doctor Eli is the most handsome man Samuel had ever seen and within seconds, he knew he would do anything to protect him. I don’t wanna give too much away but I will have to tell you this is a slow burn and I don’t like slow burns but there is something so powerful in the words of this book that just kept me turning the pages. You see Dr Eli is married to Nathaniel. Nathaniel wants his husband safe and after Eli had been talking to him about Samuel he wanted to meet him. There is something very surreal about Samuel Eli and Nathaniel as a unit and if I’m honest Samuel had been through so much from a young age that he couldn’t believe that either of these men would want him anyway. Samuel just relies on his sister Jenny but before you know it there is this family unit that is growing daily too Samuel Eli Nathaniel Jenny, Darren and Hailey
You know what? I don’t wanna give too much, but the ending broke my heart and made me cry because I want to see Samuel happy and he will be with these men and part of this family but I need more than hello Puppy really hoping there is a second book. A great read.
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
Wow, what a read this author is brand-new to me and I wasn’t sure what kind of book I was gonna read. This book is going to take you through every emotion you possibly can go through. It takes place in a prison and this is where we meet Samuel he is in for murder and he is known by the inmates as the ice queen. He fault his way to earn that respect and under the name ice cream because he never took care of his own needs while in prison. Was never interested in that. That was until Eli walked in the prison. Doctor Eli is the most handsome man Samuel had ever seen and within seconds, he knew he would do anything to protect him. I don’t wanna give too much away but I will have to tell you this is a slow burn and I don’t like slow burns but there is something so powerful in the words of this book that just kept me turning the pages. You see Dr Eli is married to Nathaniel. Nathaniel wants his husband safe and after Eli had been talking to him about Samuel he wanted to meet him. There is something very surreal about Samuel Eli and Nathaniel as a unit and if I’m honest Samuel had been through so much from a young age that he couldn’t believe that either of these men would want him anyway. Samuel just relies on his sister Jenny but before you know it there is this family unit that is growing daily too Samuel Eli Nathaniel Jenny, Darren and Hailey
You know what? I don’t wanna give too much, but the ending broke my heart and made me cry because I want to see Samuel happy and he will be with these men and part of this family but I need more than hello Puppy really hoping there is a second book. A great read.
July 28, 2025
I just finished the ARC read of this astounding book. Samuel and Eli both in prison, Samuel has 10 more years and knows his way around, keeping his head down and known as the Ice Queen. But when Eli enters the prison the life he had before goes down the shower drain and changes come that he could not imagine in his wildest imagining. Eli kind and warm with celiac disease and his profession as a physician. The things that happen, the interactions with the other prisoners, the dietary changes to keep Eli safe, the days in solitary, the breakdown of the rules, the respect of the warden, his walls coming tumbling down, the expanse of his found family in totally unexpected ways. All these things kept me riveted to this story, till when it ended I was shocked, I wanted more. This is the second book by this author and each one has been incredible.
Oh and I need this story to have a sequel, Samuel and Eli and Nathaniel and Hailey's story isn't over yet.
This has been a review in my own words and I am grateful to the author for this book.
Oh and I need this story to have a sequel, Samuel and Eli and Nathaniel and Hailey's story isn't over yet.
This has been a review in my own words and I am grateful to the author for this book.
August 3, 2025
Whilst Samuel has been in prison, he has kept everyone at arms length, its the only way to keep himself safe. Until Eli walks in, a vision of beauty who should not be there. That moment Samuel steps up to keep Eli safe, changes Samuel's world forever.
This was a book that I savoured every word, I did not want to miss a single step of Samuel getting the family he deserved. The more Samuel and Eli spent together, the closer they got and with Samuel trusting Eli, Samuel slowly told his story, and my heart broke for him. An extension of Eli was the time he spent talking to Nathaniel, Eli's husband and even though it was slow to come, Samuel realising he can be wanted and loved and him falling in love with them. Hailey and Jenny were great secondary character and I liked that Jenny was so strong for her brother and Hailey was the ray of sunshine to break through the darkness.
This was the first read by this author, but it wont be the last I can guarantee that
This was a book that I savoured every word, I did not want to miss a single step of Samuel getting the family he deserved. The more Samuel and Eli spent together, the closer they got and with Samuel trusting Eli, Samuel slowly told his story, and my heart broke for him. An extension of Eli was the time he spent talking to Nathaniel, Eli's husband and even though it was slow to come, Samuel realising he can be wanted and loved and him falling in love with them. Hailey and Jenny were great secondary character and I liked that Jenny was so strong for her brother and Hailey was the ray of sunshine to break through the darkness.
This was the first read by this author, but it wont be the last I can guarantee that
August 6, 2025
Samuel has maintained a safe distance from everyone while he has been in prison. That is, until Eli enters the room, an unwelcome sight of stunning beauty. When Samuel takes charge to protect Eli, his entire world will shift. I wanted to make sure I didn't miss a thing in this novel because I wanted Samuel to get the family he deserved. My heart ached for Samuel as he gradually told Eli his story, which they became closer to as Samuel trusted Eli. The time Samuel spent conversing with Nathaniel, Eli's spouse, was an extension of Eli. Despite the sluggish pace of realization, he eventually fell in love with them. I thought Jenny was strong for her brother and that Hailey was the light that broke through the gloom; both of these side characters were fantastic. I can assure you that this will not be your last encounter with this author; in fact, it was my first.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
August 3, 2025
If i could give this more than 5 stars I would. I have never quite read a book like this one. The storyline, the characters, and the setting, are all so uniquely different I was immediately intrigued. Turning the pits of hell into something beautiful is not somwthing easily qritten or read. This author wrote a beautiful story of second chances, family, friends and new found love. Samuel, Eli and Nathaniel are brought together by some of life's worst circumstances but through their trials they learn to lean on each other and eventually fall in love. I left the book wanting more. I was glad to see an extended epilogue, but I still want more. I want more stories about how they've continued to live their life together, how they help each other heal. The sign of a good book is when you're done but you still want to keep reading and this one left me wanting.
August 3, 2025
Where do I start with my love for this book. First, the blurb drew me in. I had never read any prison romance books and so glad this one was my first. It will be hard to top. All three characters are flawed but beautifully written and perfect for one another. Samuel drew me in with his walls higher than Jericho, but over time his interaction with Eli moved him from being withdrawn and guarded to opening showing love for Eli (and his husband Nathaniel). I love concept of Nathaniel asking Samuel to be Eli's prison husband so as to protect him and suddenly all three become a wonderful romance. Truly a book that illustrates we can all create our own definition of family. You will not be disappointed in this one and I cannot wait for book two. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
August 19, 2025
I loved this book. I find prison romance stories captivating both paranormal and contemporary. How does one start a romance while in prison, the dynamics, the prison politics and danger? I was really excited to read this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved Sam, Eli, and Nathaniel. I was fascinated by how their relationship developed- Sam and Eli in prison, Thaniel not, but still present. I really liked the dynamic here. I also loved a good number of the supporting characters. I was hooked. The scene with the sour candy made me cackle. All I could picture was watching videos of people trying that sour death candy and practically seizing.
I've read one other book by this author- The Needs of Human Pets- that I thought was odd, but interesting. I loved this one so much more.
5 stars
I've read one other book by this author- The Needs of Human Pets- that I thought was odd, but interesting. I loved this one so much more.
5 stars
August 19, 2025
This story takes a different and refreshing take on relationships, with a slow burn that kept the pages flaming. Samuel is a character we’re not entirely sure about at first—why he’s in prison, or who he really is—but we know he’s someone who usually keeps his head down, unnoticed. That all changes when he sees Eli. Suddenly, hiding is no longer an option.
Eli, in turn, is drawn to Samuel, sensing the deeper layers beneath the face Samuel shows the world. As their relationship grows, so does their bond of protection—watching each other’s backs in a harsh world. Along the way, Samuel slowly develops unexpected feelings for Nathaniel, Eli’s husband, as the three of them come to see themselves as Eli’s protectors.
This was a wonderful, emotional read—one that cracked open the hard shell of hidden feelings and showed the raw power of connection, trust, and love.
Eli, in turn, is drawn to Samuel, sensing the deeper layers beneath the face Samuel shows the world. As their relationship grows, so does their bond of protection—watching each other’s backs in a harsh world. Along the way, Samuel slowly develops unexpected feelings for Nathaniel, Eli’s husband, as the three of them come to see themselves as Eli’s protectors.
This was a wonderful, emotional read—one that cracked open the hard shell of hidden feelings and showed the raw power of connection, trust, and love.
August 19, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read by October Arden and I enjoyed the story. If you’re looking for hot, sexy time you won’t find it in this book. You will find a very moving story with characters who care about each other. I’ve never read a prison romance before so I didn’t really know what to expect. I’m not sure how realistic parts of it were (I have absolutely no knowledge about life in prison) but that didn’t really matter to me. I felt connected to the characters and empathized with their situation, especially Eli’s need for special food. The story has a mostly satisfying HFN but I knew that I’d be reading the extended epilogue right away so I didn’t mind how this one ended.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
August 2, 2025
October Arden's "The Care of Broken Things" is a powerful and deeply affecting book that is sure to resonate with readers. Arden has a remarkable talent for creating characters that feel raw, authentic, and utterly human. The story delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the process of healing, all handled with a gentle and compassionate touch. It's a book that doesn't shy away from the difficult parts of life, but instead finds beauty and hope in the journey of putting oneself back together. "The Care of Broken Things" is a moving and memorable read that will stay with you long after you've finished the last page. In this book, you'll find sadness, heartbreak, but also love and longing. Go read it!
August 3, 2025
Prison drama done well
This book by October Arden has a great plot that is written so well that it seemed very real to me and I think it’s the best prison novel I have read. Considering the type of tropes that are in this book I am actually quite surprised that it felt as realistic as it did. Polyamory is difficult to write about because there are more characters in it and there is always the big problem of jealousy. Arden does a great job of both bringing up these problems and dealing with them and considering that both Samuel and Eli are in prison for most of the book and Nathaniel isn’t, dealing with them in a realistic way is even harder. Just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the read.
This book by October Arden has a great plot that is written so well that it seemed very real to me and I think it’s the best prison novel I have read. Considering the type of tropes that are in this book I am actually quite surprised that it felt as realistic as it did. Polyamory is difficult to write about because there are more characters in it and there is always the big problem of jealousy. Arden does a great job of both bringing up these problems and dealing with them and considering that both Samuel and Eli are in prison for most of the book and Nathaniel isn’t, dealing with them in a realistic way is even harder. Just suspend your disbelief and enjoy the read.
August 4, 2025
4.5 stars
Wow, I cannot believe how quickly this author seems to be capable of getting books out. It took me a long time to get through this one, it felt incredibly intense even when nothing much was happening on the surface. The writing was brilliant, and please take care, it has one of the most harrowing descriptions of child SA I've ever read, mostly because he described it in such plain terms. It's quite unpredictable and the MMM is very unbalanced, it kept tilting one way and then the other lol. Very confusing, but still excellent. This one finishes on a hopeful note, but is left open-ended, I would recommend reading the short Boyfriend on Parole to get the happy ending. Personally I think they should have been combined into one, but there you go.
Wow, I cannot believe how quickly this author seems to be capable of getting books out. It took me a long time to get through this one, it felt incredibly intense even when nothing much was happening on the surface. The writing was brilliant, and please take care, it has one of the most harrowing descriptions of child SA I've ever read, mostly because he described it in such plain terms. It's quite unpredictable and the MMM is very unbalanced, it kept tilting one way and then the other lol. Very confusing, but still excellent. This one finishes on a hopeful note, but is left open-ended, I would recommend reading the short Boyfriend on Parole to get the happy ending. Personally I think they should have been combined into one, but there you go.
September 12, 2025
This book follows Samuel whose been in prison for five years and distanced himself from everyone. Until a doctor named Eli who was falsely accused of murder, is brought in and not only does Eli’s presence start to turn his world upside down, but Eli’s husband Nathanial and their daughter Hailey, warm up to him quickly during visits. This book is emotional and grueling, but it’s also beautiful in the way the characters interact and watch how the budding relationship between all three of them is all of their saving grace. I also love how much Eli’s daughter takes to Samual and envisions him in her life after just a few letters. It’s not an easy read but worth it, but make sure to read the trigger warnings before reading.
July 19, 2025
Wow, where to start. There is a lot of angst in this book.
Samuel was broken at 11 when he was raped by his fifth-grade teacher. When the teacher was released from prison he killed him. Samuel calls himself a murderer, I say it was self-defense. Eli was framed by his partner in the clinic they owned and has been sentenced to two years. Samuel has been hardened by his time in prison, but he is respected, even feared. Eli is a big black man, but his soul is gentle, he's vulnerable, and Samuel vows to protect him. Eli's husband Nathaniel, implores for Samuel to take Eli as his prison wife, to love him when Nathaniel can't.
Samuel was broken at 11 when he was raped by his fifth-grade teacher. When the teacher was released from prison he killed him. Samuel calls himself a murderer, I say it was self-defense. Eli was framed by his partner in the clinic they owned and has been sentenced to two years. Samuel has been hardened by his time in prison, but he is respected, even feared. Eli is a big black man, but his soul is gentle, he's vulnerable, and Samuel vows to protect him. Eli's husband Nathaniel, implores for Samuel to take Eli as his prison wife, to love him when Nathaniel can't.
July 28, 2025
This book. I am so sad I am done reading it, I want more. I must say this was an over powering with emotion read, the story, the characters, the situations the MCs find themselves in. It's kind of ironic that even though have some experience with prison visits, I clung to every descriptive word.
This author has captured my interest from the joy of reading It Started With Cake the story you get when you sign up to their newsletter to this book that gobsmacked me. The relationship that develops between Eli, Samuel and Nathaniel was astonishing, the hurt/comfort drew me like a moth to a flame. I desperately need the next book. This was an ARC read for me, the words of the review all my own.
This author has captured my interest from the joy of reading It Started With Cake the story you get when you sign up to their newsletter to this book that gobsmacked me. The relationship that develops between Eli, Samuel and Nathaniel was astonishing, the hurt/comfort drew me like a moth to a flame. I desperately need the next book. This was an ARC read for me, the words of the review all my own.
August 3, 2025
I enjoyed this book, but I was also really disappointed by it. I thought it could have been so much better.
I loved the idea - the setting, the characters' back stories, the relationship/s.
I felt like everything between Samuel and Eli kicked off way too quickly, and it was all about how pretty each of them was. That was really unsatisfying, especially given Samuel's history. I much preferred their relationships with Nathaniel.
The setting - prison and the justice system - didn't work for me. Now, I know it's fiction, and it doesn't have to be realistic. But it has to feel right, and this didn't. I just didn't buy how everything was/how it all worked/how each of the challenges was resolved, and that made it really hard to get invested in the story.
I loved the idea - the setting, the characters' back stories, the relationship/s.
I felt like everything between Samuel and Eli kicked off way too quickly, and it was all about how pretty each of them was. That was really unsatisfying, especially given Samuel's history. I much preferred their relationships with Nathaniel.
The setting - prison and the justice system - didn't work for me. Now, I know it's fiction, and it doesn't have to be realistic. But it has to feel right, and this didn't. I just didn't buy how everything was/how it all worked/how each of the challenges was resolved, and that made it really hard to get invested in the story.
August 11, 2025
The Care of Broken Things is a slow, beautiful burn that completely stole my heart.
Samuel, known as the Ice Queen in prison, keeps everyone at a distance until Dr. Eli walks in and changes everything. What starts as Samuel protecting Eli slowly turns into something deeper, pulling in Eli’s husband Nathaniel and creating an unexpected, unconventional family.
This is raw, emotional, and filled with beautifully flawed characters. Watching Samuel learn to trust, open up, and believe he’s worthy of love was powerful and heartbreaking in all the best ways. My first prison romance and it’s going to be hard to top.
I’ll be counting the days until book two.
Samuel, known as the Ice Queen in prison, keeps everyone at a distance until Dr. Eli walks in and changes everything. What starts as Samuel protecting Eli slowly turns into something deeper, pulling in Eli’s husband Nathaniel and creating an unexpected, unconventional family.
This is raw, emotional, and filled with beautifully flawed characters. Watching Samuel learn to trust, open up, and believe he’s worthy of love was powerful and heartbreaking in all the best ways. My first prison romance and it’s going to be hard to top.
I’ll be counting the days until book two.
August 21, 2025
I've been trying to figure out what I wanted to say in this review. First, this book is one that is going to needle you and stick with you long after you read it. The characters get inside you, and it is almost like you get to know them on a personal level. The book is full of emotion, and there were times it was really raw. I like the book and the characters, the angst and the push and pull, but there were times when I found myself getting a little lost. I'm not sure what it was, and it could have been me, but it happened. That said, I still like the book and the characters. It's original and well-written. 4 stars and I highly recommend you pick this one up today.
July 28, 2025
Wow what an emotional journey this book is. If you like a unique story with a lot of angst, low spice and flawed characters then this read is for you. It is a M/M/M prison romance. It does have trigger warnings, so make sure you read them first. This story is full of trauma and survival and will take you for a ride. Samuel and Eli’s story is so amazing and how Samuel vows to protect Eli and takes care of his medical needs will have you melting. Eli is such a gentle soul and the characters really come to life. I enjoyed this read and I’m sure you will also.
August 5, 2025
I was not sure what I was going to think about this book but I was moved by the way these characters took the broken pieces and made something new and more interesting with what they had. They started out as people in difficult circumstances making due and standing in. This is not easy but from this they build something new and strong and I loved that this was truly an emotional love story. Well done.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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September 13, 2025not sure how i feel after reading it. an awful lot of talking for young men in a prsion setting. didn't understand where the insta-love between all 3 came from, did i miss something. seemed a very relaxed prison, and putting murderers in with fraudsters?! daily details fascinating, liked the characterisation of other prisoners, almost throwaway but vivid. chilling depiction of ptsd from (past) abuse. E and N just too good.
July 20, 2025
4.5 stars
This was certainly an emotional journey. It's an unconventional story and I don't think I've read something quite like it before. The characters were flawed, broken and utterly human. I admired their strength as much as their weakness. Although this story is brutal, raw and heartbreaking there always is that tiny ray of hope. I liked it way more than I expected.
This was certainly an emotional journey. It's an unconventional story and I don't think I've read something quite like it before. The characters were flawed, broken and utterly human. I admired their strength as much as their weakness. Although this story is brutal, raw and heartbreaking there always is that tiny ray of hope. I liked it way more than I expected.
August 3, 2025
A very unconventional and powerful story, with quite a number of well written characters who quickly became family. The slowly developing relationship between Samuel, Eli, and Nathaniel had quite a few unexpected twists and was quite emotional. Samuel's growing hope for an actual future was the best part.
August 4, 2025
Hurt/comfort
This was beautifully written and I fell in love with these flawed characters.
It was wonderful seeing Sammy slowly learn to be vulnerable and let others into his heart.
I really enjoyed his individual relationships
with Eli and Nathaniel.
They worked really hard to make a relationship between the three of them work.
This was beautifully written and I fell in love with these flawed characters.
It was wonderful seeing Sammy slowly learn to be vulnerable and let others into his heart.
I really enjoyed his individual relationships
with Eli and Nathaniel.
They worked really hard to make a relationship between the three of them work.
August 4, 2025
Just WOW! Seriously unexpected! I loved the unique fact that two mcs are in prison which i don't think i have read before! The astounding relationship development between Samuel and Eli, with the outside influence of Nathaniel was beyond par! Absolutely brilliant! Highly recommend
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
August 5, 2025
Ummm…
I was enjoying this story and the pacing was really good to keep my interest but I’ve gotten so used to characters using “I” that it was a bit hard at times to figure out who was talking. Also, I felt it all lead to a massive cliffhanger of sorts. It has a sort of HEA but didn’t feel complete. I was left feeling disappointed.
I was enjoying this story and the pacing was really good to keep my interest but I’ve gotten so used to characters using “I” that it was a bit hard at times to figure out who was talking. Also, I felt it all lead to a massive cliffhanger of sorts. It has a sort of HEA but didn’t feel complete. I was left feeling disappointed.
August 6, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
I liked the set up of Samuel, an inmate with a long sentence, developing a relationship with another inmate and his husband, who is not in prison. It was an interesting idea, but with an execution that didn’t come together for me. This story has many parts, but I never felt that all of those parts fit seamlessly into one full story.
I had a difficult time believing in Samuel and Eli’s relationship and never was given any reason to think a relationship would work with them as a trio. This didn’t hit the vibe of a fulfilling story for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
I liked the set up of Samuel, an inmate with a long sentence, developing a relationship with another inmate and his husband, who is not in prison. It was an interesting idea, but with an execution that didn’t come together for me. This story has many parts, but I never felt that all of those parts fit seamlessly into one full story.
I had a difficult time believing in Samuel and Eli’s relationship and never was given any reason to think a relationship would work with them as a trio. This didn’t hit the vibe of a fulfilling story for me.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
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