What do you think?
West Pine Bullies #1
Make It Hurt
"I told you I'd put you back in your f*cking place. When I'm done with you, I promise there won't be an ounce of fight left in your body. I can't wait to see what it looks like."
I messed up. I should have hit him with my car that night.
For two years, my stepbrother and his friends have made my life hell. The innocent, naïve girl I was when I first arrived in Aurora Cove is nothing but a distant memory. I’ve done what I had to do to survive, and it changed me.
Unfortunately, some things never change.
West Pine University was supposed to be different. Instead, I ended up right back where I never wanted to be again—at Elias’s feet, begging him to save me.
But Elias’s help comes with conditions. I’ll be indebted to all of them—Dax, Nolan, and Elias—without limits. And if I don’t do what they want, they can take it back at any time.
Dax wants to make me weak for him. Elias won’t stop until he breaks me. And Nolan…I don’t think he wants anything. I don’t think there’s anything left behind his dark eyes.
Still, I need them. If anyone finds out what I did, my life is over. And someone knows. I’m being followed, watched. They’re the only ones who can keep me safe.
But their brand of salvation is going to ruin me, too.
I messed up. I should have hit him with my car that night.
For two years, my stepbrother and his friends have made my life hell. The innocent, naïve girl I was when I first arrived in Aurora Cove is nothing but a distant memory. I’ve done what I had to do to survive, and it changed me.
Unfortunately, some things never change.
West Pine University was supposed to be different. Instead, I ended up right back where I never wanted to be again—at Elias’s feet, begging him to save me.
But Elias’s help comes with conditions. I’ll be indebted to all of them—Dax, Nolan, and Elias—without limits. And if I don’t do what they want, they can take it back at any time.
Dax wants to make me weak for him. Elias won’t stop until he breaks me. And Nolan…I don’t think he wants anything. I don’t think there’s anything left behind his dark eyes.
Still, I need them. If anyone finds out what I did, my life is over. And someone knows. I’m being followed, watched. They’re the only ones who can keep me safe.
But their brand of salvation is going to ruin me, too.
513 pages, Paperback
Published March 9, 2026
About the author
Elle Mitchell
12 books731 followersKnown as the (mostly benevolent) Queen of Angst, Elle Mitchell writes new adult contemporary romance ranging from shades of grey to morally pitch black with a hint of taboo. A mix of plot and spice, her books follow flawed, relatable characters as they rage against the machine or struggle against the darker parts of humanity and themselves. They’re messy—like real life—and emotional.
She can’t promise that all her books will depict what a healthy relationship should look like at every turn. She rejects purity themes. The best she can do is promise an eventual HEA when it’s all said and done.
When she isn’t reading or writing, it’s unlikely you’ll find her anywhere. She’s probably at home with her family, minding her own business.
Find her on IG and TT: @ellemitchellbooks
She can’t promise that all her books will depict what a healthy relationship should look like at every turn. She rejects purity themes. The best she can do is promise an eventual HEA when it’s all said and done.
When she isn’t reading or writing, it’s unlikely you’ll find her anywhere. She’s probably at home with her family, minding her own business.
Find her on IG and TT: @ellemitchellbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 463 reviews
Did Not Finish
March 15, 2026dnf 30%
the mmc literally shoves a bar of soap down her throat??? 😃 elle i love u but what are we doing here
the mmc literally shoves a bar of soap down her throat??? 😃 elle i love u but what are we doing here
March 10, 2026
[⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Star Review...] ☀︎ MAKE IT HURT ☀︎ Is the first full length bully stepbrother romance book in the (West Pine Bullies) series by author Elle Mitchell.
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
Tropes:
❥ MMFM (Why Choose)
❥ Stepbrother
❥ Bully
❥ College setting
❥ Hockey
❥ Stalker
❥ Forced proximity
Yes please.. Make this hurt.. I'm a huge fan of stepbrother/bully romance books and seeing this pop up on my radar it was right up my alley..
This was an manipulative addictive angsty bully romance, I don’t think I warmed up fully to any of the guys, other than Nolan, the other two didn’t really have any redeeming qualities, they both controlled her, played upon her emotions, the too and fro, the bullying tendencies, this was like a game of table tennis ping ponging with the angst.
Dax liked his toys broken so that they relied on him.
Nolan, didn’t like to be touched, he struggled with depression and didn’t let anyone near other than Dax.
Elijah took bullying to a whole new level, a love hate obsession, he liked to be the one in control pulling all the strings.
Saige, had been used, abused, discarded, by the games these boys played. I wished she was stronger, I wished she’d fought back. I wished she'd had a back bone..
Out one night partying on her first night on campus she meets this guy who hates Elijah just as much as she did, maybe more so, one thing led to another and they entered the guys residence and trashed the place, long story short the guy she entered with didn't not come back out alive, all of them including Saige got rid of the body. This played perfectly into Elijah's hands, now she's at their beck and call and she can't say no because they have the body to hold over her head. .
Then dead animals entails are left in her car and her dorm room, messages start popping up suggesting they know what she did. Best case scenario is that she moves in with the guys so that they can keep an eye on her and plus it gives them access to her and what they demand.
She feels like she's being watched, stalked, she sees a man all in black a few times wearing a mask, is it another of Elijah's games or is someone really out to get her..
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
Tropes:
❥ MMFM (Why Choose)
❥ Stepbrother
❥ Bully
❥ College setting
❥ Hockey
❥ Stalker
❥ Forced proximity
Yes please.. Make this hurt.. I'm a huge fan of stepbrother/bully romance books and seeing this pop up on my radar it was right up my alley..
This was an manipulative addictive angsty bully romance, I don’t think I warmed up fully to any of the guys, other than Nolan, the other two didn’t really have any redeeming qualities, they both controlled her, played upon her emotions, the too and fro, the bullying tendencies, this was like a game of table tennis ping ponging with the angst.
Dax liked his toys broken so that they relied on him.
Nolan, didn’t like to be touched, he struggled with depression and didn’t let anyone near other than Dax.
Elijah took bullying to a whole new level, a love hate obsession, he liked to be the one in control pulling all the strings.
Saige, had been used, abused, discarded, by the games these boys played. I wished she was stronger, I wished she’d fought back. I wished she'd had a back bone..
Out one night partying on her first night on campus she meets this guy who hates Elijah just as much as she did, maybe more so, one thing led to another and they entered the guys residence and trashed the place, long story short the guy she entered with didn't not come back out alive, all of them including Saige got rid of the body. This played perfectly into Elijah's hands, now she's at their beck and call and she can't say no because they have the body to hold over her head. .
Then dead animals entails are left in her car and her dorm room, messages start popping up suggesting they know what she did. Best case scenario is that she moves in with the guys so that they can keep an eye on her and plus it gives them access to her and what they demand.
She feels like she's being watched, stalked, she sees a man all in black a few times wearing a mask, is it another of Elijah's games or is someone really out to get her..
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew I was in trouble from the opening scene. This book wastes absolutely no time dragging you straight into its chaos and then relentlessly tightening the screws. The tone is intense and unsettling, only to be undercut by the occasional one-liner that made me laugh out loud (which somehow makes everything feel even darker 👀). The forced proximity escalates in layers, the stakes keep climbing, and the sense of being watched never lets up.
What really makes this shine, though, are the characters and their dynamics (very on brand for Elle Mitchell). The heroine feels worn down by life in a way that’s painfully familiar. But she's someone who keeps pushing forward even when she’s exhausted and terrified, always hovering just shy of her breaking point. Each MMC brings something distinct to the table. Dax is funny and sweet with a dark, controlling edge that flares unexpectedly. Nolan is quiet, disciplined, and devastatingly wounded, showing his care in the smallest, most meaningful ways that make it the most steady of the group. Elias is cruel and volatile, but just vulnerable enough that you understand where his rage comes from and his desperate need to be chosen. Their relationships with each other and with the heroine are messy, conditional, and deeply human. The found-family moments hit especially hard because they’re always shadowed by the knowledge that none of this is clearly defined or truly secure.
The romance is high-spice (possibly Elle’s spiciest yet), but it works for these characters and the circumstances they’re trapped in. There’s enough emotional depth that the spice never feels like it replaces real relationship development. I loved how affection sneaks in through teasing, caretaking, and quiet sacrifices, even when no one is brave enough to name what they’re feeling. Things don't feel settled with the romance(s) just yet, giving it room to grow in the next book. While I occasionally wished for a bit more emotional variety from the heroine and had a few minor hang-ups, none of that dulled the experience for me. This is a dark, twisted, emotionally charged story that I cannot stop thinking about (especially with that cliffhanger ending). I keep having to remind myself this is the current book I’m reading because I’m still so mentally stuck inside it. An easy five stars.
What really makes this shine, though, are the characters and their dynamics (very on brand for Elle Mitchell). The heroine feels worn down by life in a way that’s painfully familiar. But she's someone who keeps pushing forward even when she’s exhausted and terrified, always hovering just shy of her breaking point. Each MMC brings something distinct to the table. Dax is funny and sweet with a dark, controlling edge that flares unexpectedly. Nolan is quiet, disciplined, and devastatingly wounded, showing his care in the smallest, most meaningful ways that make it the most steady of the group. Elias is cruel and volatile, but just vulnerable enough that you understand where his rage comes from and his desperate need to be chosen. Their relationships with each other and with the heroine are messy, conditional, and deeply human. The found-family moments hit especially hard because they’re always shadowed by the knowledge that none of this is clearly defined or truly secure.
The romance is high-spice (possibly Elle’s spiciest yet), but it works for these characters and the circumstances they’re trapped in. There’s enough emotional depth that the spice never feels like it replaces real relationship development. I loved how affection sneaks in through teasing, caretaking, and quiet sacrifices, even when no one is brave enough to name what they’re feeling. Things don't feel settled with the romance(s) just yet, giving it room to grow in the next book. While I occasionally wished for a bit more emotional variety from the heroine and had a few minor hang-ups, none of that dulled the experience for me. This is a dark, twisted, emotionally charged story that I cannot stop thinking about (especially with that cliffhanger ending). I keep having to remind myself this is the current book I’m reading because I’m still so mentally stuck inside it. An easy five stars.
February 22, 2026
4/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
- Why choose romance (MMFM)
- Obsessed step brother
- Dark college romance
- Bully romance
- Stalker
GAH DAMN. Elle did it again! If she writes it, I'm reading it.
The plot and the twists had me gasping for air. I loved the characters and this sh*t was SPICYYYY.
Tropes & what to expect:
- Why choose romance (MMFM)
- Obsessed step brother
- Dark college romance
- Bully romance
- Stalker
GAH DAMN. Elle did it again! If she writes it, I'm reading it.
The plot and the twists had me gasping for air. I loved the characters and this sh*t was SPICYYYY.
June 7, 2026
Haunting Adeline al lado de este libro es un romance juvenil
February 8, 2026
“Dax gave me an 0rgasm, a Xanax, and told me it wasn't my fault. That's more than anyone else has done for me in a while.”
"I've already left a permanent mark on you. Maybe it isn't a good one, but there's nothing you can do about it now, is there? I don't even think you want to. I think you love the scar."
I don’t know that I have found the words strong enough to describe how much I loved this book. I sacrificed precious, precious sleep because I was physically unable to put this book down.
Unfortunately, I too am in love with all of these men. They all have such unique qualities about them that immediately had me swooning. Elias- such a jerk… a beautiful, Alphahole jerk. He’s just got that quality about him that makes me think ‘I can fix him’. Dax’s soft spot for Saige had even me feeling all Stockholm-y. And don’t even get me started on Nolan. I love that he is slowly breaking all of his rules for her, finding comfort that he has historically only found in Dax.
Now Saige… this poor girl has been through more torment and heartbreak (mostly at the hands of Elias) than even the strongest willed women could survive. Despite it feeling like quite literally the entire world is against her, she continues to persevere through every difficulty thrown her way.
I truly loved this book with every bit of my heart and soul and I am dying for book two so I can find out what the heck is going on after that painful cliffhanger!
What’s in the book?
Why choose
Bully
Stepbrother
College
Stalker
Hockey
*ends on a cliffhanger
"I've already left a permanent mark on you. Maybe it isn't a good one, but there's nothing you can do about it now, is there? I don't even think you want to. I think you love the scar."
I don’t know that I have found the words strong enough to describe how much I loved this book. I sacrificed precious, precious sleep because I was physically unable to put this book down.
Unfortunately, I too am in love with all of these men. They all have such unique qualities about them that immediately had me swooning. Elias- such a jerk… a beautiful, Alphahole jerk. He’s just got that quality about him that makes me think ‘I can fix him’. Dax’s soft spot for Saige had even me feeling all Stockholm-y. And don’t even get me started on Nolan. I love that he is slowly breaking all of his rules for her, finding comfort that he has historically only found in Dax.
Now Saige… this poor girl has been through more torment and heartbreak (mostly at the hands of Elias) than even the strongest willed women could survive. Despite it feeling like quite literally the entire world is against her, she continues to persevere through every difficulty thrown her way.
I truly loved this book with every bit of my heart and soul and I am dying for book two so I can find out what the heck is going on after that painful cliffhanger!
What’s in the book?
Why choose
Bully
Stepbrother
College
Stalker
Hockey
*ends on a cliffhanger
September 30, 2026
Perfection ☝🏼
March 16, 2026
This book made me feel molested 🤨 I actually just wanted to cry reading this. Yeah dark romance and all I get it but nah I just want to sit in the shower and cry after this book. DNF about 80% of the it, do not recommend it 🙂
May 13, 2026
but like why was it kinda good and why am i going to read the second one
April 6, 2026
Elle has done it again! She is the queen of dark romance in my opinion. This feels like a staple for College set Bully romance lovers. If you have yet to read her books this is an excellent jumping in point. The moment I finished I had to know what happened next!
This book will challenge you in the best way. The relationships will bend, while others break. Expect an angsty good time where you will be rooting for the villians.
Perfect for fans of CM Stunich or fans of the L.O.R.D.S. Series.
This book will challenge you in the best way. The relationships will bend, while others break. Expect an angsty good time where you will be rooting for the villians.
Perfect for fans of CM Stunich or fans of the L.O.R.D.S. Series.
March 15, 2026
I knew when I started this book that it was going to drag me by my hair and that’s EXACTLY what it did. I went through like 50 different emotions while reading this book.. i mean it’s exactly what it said it was.. a dark why choose bully romance, and yes it was hella brutal at times, the mmcs are downright diabolical & my heart hurt for Saige. But, i will say that that i appreciated the duality and struggles we got to see/know of each character. But then you add in the mysterious stalker and danger aspect to the plot??? I simply couldn’t put this down. Ugh, this was a wild ride and obviously spicy as hell.. Then that cliffhanger??? OMG.
Definitely check your triggers when going into this one!
Definitely check your triggers when going into this one!
June 24, 2026
This really hit the spot! It’s been a while since I’ve read a dark college romance and a RH and this was exactly what I was in the mood for. I liked all the characters, the angst and drama was good, I got teary a few times because I felt so bad for the h. I did think things were predictable but I couldn’t put it down. Jumping into book two immediately. Things did get repetitive here. I’d like more variety in the scenes and things happening. I’m
Nervous that there isn’t really enough to support another nearly 500 page book but I’m hopeful.
Nervous that there isn’t really enough to support another nearly 500 page book but I’m hopeful.
February 21, 2026
The spice in this book 10/10🥵🥵. Besides the spice the characters were so perfectly all rough around the edges. I love how much depth each character had and that no one had a cookie cutter story. There was always so much more to everyone. This why choose story makes you feel all kinds of emotions. Saige our FMC, i could taste her frustration with the guys and with everything she endured because of them. You really shouldn’t mess with a girl who doesn’t have anything to lose. The MMCs are all individually unique but all are in someway or another toxically waving their red flags but we love them for it. When i thought i had the story figured out, boom, something would happen that made me go back to the drawing board. This is book one of a series and i can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
**My take on the guys.**
Nolan is so far my favorite. I loved Elias in the beginning because he made me laugh but that changed. I just like him now. He has some groveling to do. Dax played me like a fiddle so fuck him. lol but maybe not. I have a little candle of hope for him.
**My take on the guys.**
Nolan is so far my favorite. I loved Elias in the beginning because he made me laugh but that changed. I just like him now. He has some groveling to do. Dax played me like a fiddle so fuck him. lol but maybe not. I have a little candle of hope for him.
May 22, 2026
I’m sorry what? Most insane thing I’ve ever read. Where’s the plot? Only thing good about this book was the dog.
August 18, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Make It Stop by Elle Mitchell
508 Pages of perfection!
This book messed with my head in a way I wasn’t ready for. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and honestly kind of addictive. I kept telling myself I’d stop after one more chapter, and then suddenly I was halfway through, fully stressed, fully invested, and not putting it down. 🫣
Saige feels like someone you could actually know; someone who’s trying to survive something she doesn’t have the tools for. She’s scared, she’s confused, she’s attached to people she shouldn’t be attached to, and it all feels way too real. ❤️🩹 The guys in this book aren’t softened or romanticized. They’re intense, dangerous, and sometimes awful, and that’s exactly why the whole story hits the way it does.
The tension never lets up. Every scene feels like something bad is about to happen, and even when it doesn’t, you’re still bracing for it. It’s messy and chaotic and emotional in a way that feels human instead of dramatic for the sake of drama. 👀
When I finished it, I just sat there for a minute trying to process everything. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you because it doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is. Five stars because it made me feel something, even when those feelings weren’t comfortable. 🖤
Make It Stop by Elle Mitchell
508 Pages of perfection!
This book messed with my head in a way I wasn’t ready for. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and honestly kind of addictive. I kept telling myself I’d stop after one more chapter, and then suddenly I was halfway through, fully stressed, fully invested, and not putting it down. 🫣
Saige feels like someone you could actually know; someone who’s trying to survive something she doesn’t have the tools for. She’s scared, she’s confused, she’s attached to people she shouldn’t be attached to, and it all feels way too real. ❤️🩹 The guys in this book aren’t softened or romanticized. They’re intense, dangerous, and sometimes awful, and that’s exactly why the whole story hits the way it does.
The tension never lets up. Every scene feels like something bad is about to happen, and even when it doesn’t, you’re still bracing for it. It’s messy and chaotic and emotional in a way that feels human instead of dramatic for the sake of drama. 👀
When I finished it, I just sat there for a minute trying to process everything. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you because it doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is. Five stars because it made me feel something, even when those feelings weren’t comfortable. 🖤
March 10, 2026
Plot: 4/5 • Spice: 4/5 ———-> Elias absolutely despises his stepsister. He takes all his aggression out on Saige. He tortures her for years. You’d think he hated her with the things he does, but in reality he’s infatuated with her. They wind up at the same college…
Along with Elias’ best friends, Dax and Nolan, they save her after finding her trashing the inside their house. Elias makes a deal with her. She must bend to his every command. Including moving into their home. Basically becoming his maid and homework helper. Along the way Dax and Nolan, who are basically together, start to become attached to Saige. Elias still making her life miserable along the way.
Saige receives texts and photos, has her car and dorm room vandalized. She has a stalker. The guys come in and kee her under their protection. Turns out it hits a little closer to home than expected. I think? 🤔🤔🤔
Ends on a cliffy. Was it Elias? Was it someone else? She ran, but we don’t know who else it could be after Elias’ revelation. 😵💫
Along with Elias’ best friends, Dax and Nolan, they save her after finding her trashing the inside their house. Elias makes a deal with her. She must bend to his every command. Including moving into their home. Basically becoming his maid and homework helper. Along the way Dax and Nolan, who are basically together, start to become attached to Saige. Elias still making her life miserable along the way.
Saige receives texts and photos, has her car and dorm room vandalized. She has a stalker. The guys come in and kee her under their protection. Turns out it hits a little closer to home than expected. I think? 🤔🤔🤔
Ends on a cliffy. Was it Elias? Was it someone else? She ran, but we don’t know who else it could be after Elias’ revelation. 😵💫
March 16, 2026
Devoured
I devoured this book in less than a day. The twisted games the secrets, just everything was so good. And who doesn't love a good why choose. I'm not saying much else because I want to wait til the 2nd book comes out next month. Because d*MN that cliffhanger.
I love Elles writing and this book did not dissapoint
I devoured this book in less than a day. The twisted games the secrets, just everything was so good. And who doesn't love a good why choose. I'm not saying much else because I want to wait til the 2nd book comes out next month. Because d*MN that cliffhanger.
I love Elles writing and this book did not dissapoint
May 2, 2026
I was apprehensive about reading this, but lemme tell you. This is DARK AF.
August 31, 2026
3⭐️
I have a lot to say about this flipping book…
Saige is so STUPID and didn’t help herself at all but I can’t help but love her.
Elias has ZERO redeeming qualities, he’s a psycho and just mean for like no reason. Like wdym you’re in love with her so you make her life a living hell for two straight years???? Grade-A manchild.
Dax is an immature f boy but he’s charming and I get it. I loved his relationship with Nolan soooo much.
Nolan is such a sweetheart and I’d die for that man. He did nothing wrong I love him.
The plot was kind of meh but the spice…. Too bloody good. Hell of a cliffhanger I NEED to read book 2 like now.
(I honestly highlighted half of this book but I’ve whittled my favourite lines to these)
"When I'm done with you, I promise there won't be an ounce of fight left in your body. I can't wait to see what it looks like."
“Whatever darkness lurks behind his eyes was put there by someone else.”
“ I fucking love seeing them together. They're my favorite fucking thing to look at. Mine.”
I have a lot to say about this flipping book…
Saige is so STUPID and didn’t help herself at all but I can’t help but love her.
Elias has ZERO redeeming qualities, he’s a psycho and just mean for like no reason. Like wdym you’re in love with her so you make her life a living hell for two straight years???? Grade-A manchild.
Dax is an immature f boy but he’s charming and I get it. I loved his relationship with Nolan soooo much.
Nolan is such a sweetheart and I’d die for that man. He did nothing wrong I love him.
The plot was kind of meh but the spice…. Too bloody good. Hell of a cliffhanger I NEED to read book 2 like now.
(I honestly highlighted half of this book but I’ve whittled my favourite lines to these)
"When I'm done with you, I promise there won't be an ounce of fight left in your body. I can't wait to see what it looks like."
“Whatever darkness lurks behind his eyes was put there by someone else.”
“ I fucking love seeing them together. They're my favorite fucking thing to look at. Mine.”
September 7, 2026
4.5 stars.
Damn... She cannot catch a break. Honestly, Miles had it coming. And Elias most definitely used her desperation against her. Then got mad at her for the way he feels. The man has some serious issues. Dax and Nolan are falling for her. It's happening... No one wants to admit feelings but they are there.
Damn... She cannot catch a break. Honestly, Miles had it coming. And Elias most definitely used her desperation against her. Then got mad at her for the way he feels. The man has some serious issues. Dax and Nolan are falling for her. It's happening... No one wants to admit feelings but they are there.
February 9, 2026
The vibe of this first book is the perfect opening to a new series! I am so excited for where this series is going to go! Check your triggers as always - content warnings 💯
Make It Hurt has everything I love in a dark romance. The dynamics between Saige and Elias immediately drew me in but I was completely blindsided by how much I love Dax and Nolan!!! I would go to war for these two! I have a feeling that these two boys are going to ruin me and I am here for it!
I am very simple. In a series like this - I want toxic. I want my heart broken by boyfriends who have boyfriends and spice that makes me sweat. I fear this series will check all these boxes! I can’t wait !! 😜
Make It Hurt has everything I love in a dark romance. The dynamics between Saige and Elias immediately drew me in but I was completely blindsided by how much I love Dax and Nolan!!! I would go to war for these two! I have a feeling that these two boys are going to ruin me and I am here for it!
I am very simple. In a series like this - I want toxic. I want my heart broken by boyfriends who have boyfriends and spice that makes me sweat. I fear this series will check all these boxes! I can’t wait !! 😜
Review of advance copy received from Author
First thank you Elle for the ARC opportunity!
Ok FIRST of all! THAT CLIFFHANGER 😭🫠
I def stayed up to finish this , because why the heck not! Of course ima lock in!
I have never thought " damn degradation sounds kind of hot " lmao but everytime ain't read and Elle Mitchell book i do, too bad real life me could never! Lol
Anywho, back to the book
Elias was hella trash but I liked him a little more towards the end, Dax and Nolan were adorable. Saige, man I feel for her. We've all had our dark days, some more than others but the way Elias would get in her head was so foul 😭
Like bro why?!
As per usual, Elle has found a way to punch my heart and hand it back to me 🥲 I (gentally) THREW MY KINDLE! LOL
The spice was all the way there cause 🥵 man !
I cannot wait for book two!
Ok FIRST of all! THAT CLIFFHANGER 😭🫠
I def stayed up to finish this , because why the heck not! Of course ima lock in!
I have never thought " damn degradation sounds kind of hot " lmao but everytime ain't read and Elle Mitchell book i do, too bad real life me could never! Lol
Anywho, back to the book
Elias was hella trash but I liked him a little more towards the end, Dax and Nolan were adorable. Saige, man I feel for her. We've all had our dark days, some more than others but the way Elias would get in her head was so foul 😭
Like bro why?!
As per usual, Elle has found a way to punch my heart and hand it back to me 🥲 I (gentally) THREW MY KINDLE! LOL
The spice was all the way there cause 🥵 man !
I cannot wait for book two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2026
I wanted to like this book, but it was incredibly obvious and also terrible at the same time. Like obviously Elias was the one sending the pics, but also obviously there was going to be a different person trying to get her. And like this man did nothing to actually develop a relationship with her - at no point did they make him redeemable
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2026
"To everyone who was delighted to learn that in some circumstances, when a boy pulls your hair, it does mean he likes you."
I've never read a bully romance before and although I found this a really hard read in places, I just couldnt put it down 🫠 It was the 1st book I've read by Elle & it definitely won't be my last!
💀 Stalker
💀 Why Choose? MFMM
💀 Step Brother
💀 Hockey
💀 Trauma
*Check your triggers before reading this one - it covers some hard subjects & areas ⚠️
Review -
Okay so this one does just as the title states - it hurts! 💔 It's a harsh, emotionally brutal, possession turns to obsession, morally dark grey, bully, enimies to lovers, unhinged college romance in all its forms ... & I was here for every deranged second of it 🙈
It had me sad, shocked, devastated, giggling & kicking my feet with my fist in my mouth - the tension set within the first 2 chapters just follows through the whole read ... with the added slight mystery stalker sideline keeping the intrigue high too 💀
I liked that it was written from all 4 characters POVs. For the MMCs the menacing trio that is Elias, Dax & Nolan, this really helped deepen the understanding of each of them and their own internal struggles - which helped level my moral compass in places 🖤
I mean we can NOT excuse their actions - the way they manipulate, control & emotionally play with FMC Saige is not, okay ... but there were moments when you just couldnt help but go soft for them, as their inner monologue lays bare each of their own internal traumas & turmoil ❤️🩹
FMC Saige a ball of sunshine crushed to dust 💀 she just seems to be wrong place, wrong choice, wrong time in nearly every situation 🙈 the emotional manipulation leaves her so vunerable & raw - for me it made it a tough read at times! l'm just now holding hope that the feelings & emotional shift in her isn't ruined by those last couple of chapters 🫠
Elle definitely does not write for the faint of heart, but she thrust me into a new brutal world where love can be harsh, painful and full of lies & obsession - the cliff on this ending was a HIGH one! 🤯 I have questions & just hope the wait for book 2 isn't too long already!! 🤞
I've never read a bully romance before and although I found this a really hard read in places, I just couldnt put it down 🫠 It was the 1st book I've read by Elle & it definitely won't be my last!
💀 Stalker
💀 Why Choose? MFMM
💀 Step Brother
💀 Hockey
💀 Trauma
*Check your triggers before reading this one - it covers some hard subjects & areas ⚠️
Review -
Okay so this one does just as the title states - it hurts! 💔 It's a harsh, emotionally brutal, possession turns to obsession, morally dark grey, bully, enimies to lovers, unhinged college romance in all its forms ... & I was here for every deranged second of it 🙈
It had me sad, shocked, devastated, giggling & kicking my feet with my fist in my mouth - the tension set within the first 2 chapters just follows through the whole read ... with the added slight mystery stalker sideline keeping the intrigue high too 💀
I liked that it was written from all 4 characters POVs. For the MMCs the menacing trio that is Elias, Dax & Nolan, this really helped deepen the understanding of each of them and their own internal struggles - which helped level my moral compass in places 🖤
I mean we can NOT excuse their actions - the way they manipulate, control & emotionally play with FMC Saige is not, okay ... but there were moments when you just couldnt help but go soft for them, as their inner monologue lays bare each of their own internal traumas & turmoil ❤️🩹
FMC Saige a ball of sunshine crushed to dust 💀 she just seems to be wrong place, wrong choice, wrong time in nearly every situation 🙈 the emotional manipulation leaves her so vunerable & raw - for me it made it a tough read at times! l'm just now holding hope that the feelings & emotional shift in her isn't ruined by those last couple of chapters 🫠
Elle definitely does not write for the faint of heart, but she thrust me into a new brutal world where love can be harsh, painful and full of lies & obsession - the cliff on this ending was a HIGH one! 🤯 I have questions & just hope the wait for book 2 isn't too long already!! 🤞
March 11, 2026
Every time I go to read a book by Elle Mitchell, I know I’m gonna love it. There’s no question about that but I always wonder if it’s gonna hurt as much as it did last time. Yes. Time and time again yes it hurts in the best of ways. It’s an addictive way that I can’t get enough of. She creates worlds, develops characters and writes stories that hit full impact in the feels. In all seriousness, this book grabs you by the throat right from the start and seeps its way into your mind body and soul. The opening scene drags you straight into the depths of the characters darkness and keeps you gasping. The intense toxic dynamic just keeps getting harder and harder to deny yet like a drug you don’t want to stop taking it all in. Every moment, laughing, crying, fuming, worrying, sobbing, once again the queen of angst keeps it coming. Nolan, lé sigh, iykyk my newest heart inhabitant how… why… Elle !??!?! Each man brings something of his own unique self good and bad to the mix and it’s delicious. This story is just so well written and the spice… holy hotness. Honestly get yourself a fan and glass of ice cold something cause you’re gonna need it. The bits of affection that slip in through the sexy af dark torment and heart hurting twisted emotion is overwhelming and I love every single moment. As sick and toxic as their relationship is, tell me, why do I wanna hang out with them? What does that say about me? Fuck if I know but what it does say is Elle’s books are masterfully written and you need to go read this right now. Check the TWs first as they are there to ensure this book is right for you. For me it’s a HARD YES. Oh and thanks for another mind fuck of a cliffy. Yeah book two needed asap.
March 15, 2026
Read the book. You’ll thank me later
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Make It Hurt by Elle Mitchell had me hooked from the very beginning and did not let go for a second. The tension, the push and pull, the emotional torment—it was everything I wanted and more.
The story follows Saige, whose life flips upside down when her mom suddenly marries and she moves in with her new stepfather… and meets her new stepbrother, Elias. Their first encounter is completely unexpected, and once Elias realizes who she is, he makes her life a living nightmare. The animosity, the tension, and the constant power struggle between them is intense. Then he leaves for college, and just when Saige thinks she might get some distance from the chaos, fate throws them back together when she ends up attending the same college.
From there, things spiral in the best possible way. Saige’s world becomes tangled up with Elias and his two best friends, and the dynamic between all of them is addictive. This isn’t just a typical bully why-choose romance—it goes deeper. The suspense kept building chapter after chapter, and the emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested.
And that ending… brutal. The cliffhanger left me staring at the last page like, “You cannot be serious right now.” I’m frustrated in the best way because now I need the next book.
I devoured this on Kindle Unlimited and loved it so much that I’m immediately buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. If you love intense bully romance, complicated relationships, and a story packed with tension and suspense, this one is absolutely worth the read. Easy 6✨read!
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Make It Hurt by Elle Mitchell had me hooked from the very beginning and did not let go for a second. The tension, the push and pull, the emotional torment—it was everything I wanted and more.
The story follows Saige, whose life flips upside down when her mom suddenly marries and she moves in with her new stepfather… and meets her new stepbrother, Elias. Their first encounter is completely unexpected, and once Elias realizes who she is, he makes her life a living nightmare. The animosity, the tension, and the constant power struggle between them is intense. Then he leaves for college, and just when Saige thinks she might get some distance from the chaos, fate throws them back together when she ends up attending the same college.
From there, things spiral in the best possible way. Saige’s world becomes tangled up with Elias and his two best friends, and the dynamic between all of them is addictive. This isn’t just a typical bully why-choose romance—it goes deeper. The suspense kept building chapter after chapter, and the emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested.
And that ending… brutal. The cliffhanger left me staring at the last page like, “You cannot be serious right now.” I’m frustrated in the best way because now I need the next book.
I devoured this on Kindle Unlimited and loved it so much that I’m immediately buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. If you love intense bully romance, complicated relationships, and a story packed with tension and suspense, this one is absolutely worth the read. Easy 6✨read!
February 21, 2026
OMG I AM OBSESSED. AHHHHHHH. What a fucking time I had omg. Elle is the QUEEN of vibey reads. I literally had the best, most spicyyyy time. 👏🏻
I was hooked from the start! The pace is fast but there is some slow burn with some characters vs others and I LOVED THAT. All three mmcs are different - and I love that in a why choose bc it is so important.
First off, I liked Saige a lot. It was interesting to really see how her character kept changing with everything going on - she was true to her emotions and the “rain cloud” reference hit hard for me! Eep.
Nolan. MY BABY BOY AND MY OBSESSION. Vampy, loner, touch aversion, slutty glasses - I die for him. Seeing his relationship with Saige was SO GOOD I was so invested. I loved the sweet moments and the MM? My gawd. PLZ. I need more.
Dax is the charmer the sweetheart, the fuck boy and the love bomber. I think an fmc always needs someone like this to really set things into motion and that is exactly what he did. Dax was actually a v complex character. IDK if i like him after finishing this book tho lol.
ELIAS LOLLLL. I was hysterically cry laughing at the things he said oh my gawd this man is hilarious, broody, angry, fuuuucked up frfr and has a major pain kink. His slow burn with Saige tho? HERE FOR IT. So well done.
The plot twist and then the next twist? So good. The plot isnt anything insane but this book is v character and relationship heavy, which I appreciate.
The spice oh my god some of the most delicious scenes I read recently. PHEW.
I am obsessed. Need book 2 STAT.
I was hooked from the start! The pace is fast but there is some slow burn with some characters vs others and I LOVED THAT. All three mmcs are different - and I love that in a why choose bc it is so important.
First off, I liked Saige a lot. It was interesting to really see how her character kept changing with everything going on - she was true to her emotions and the “rain cloud” reference hit hard for me! Eep.
Nolan. MY BABY BOY AND MY OBSESSION. Vampy, loner, touch aversion, slutty glasses - I die for him. Seeing his relationship with Saige was SO GOOD I was so invested. I loved the sweet moments and the MM? My gawd. PLZ. I need more.
Dax is the charmer the sweetheart, the fuck boy and the love bomber. I think an fmc always needs someone like this to really set things into motion and that is exactly what he did. Dax was actually a v complex character. IDK if i like him after finishing this book tho lol.
ELIAS LOLLLL. I was hysterically cry laughing at the things he said oh my gawd this man is hilarious, broody, angry, fuuuucked up frfr and has a major pain kink. His slow burn with Saige tho? HERE FOR IT. So well done.
The plot twist and then the next twist? So good. The plot isnt anything insane but this book is v character and relationship heavy, which I appreciate.
The spice oh my god some of the most delicious scenes I read recently. PHEW.
I am obsessed. Need book 2 STAT.
September 4, 2026
So ridiculous but SO addictive at the same time!!
This was one hell of a ride. Absolutely unhinged, slightly questionable, and at times I was sitting there thinking, what the actual fuck am I reading? But did I have a good time? Unfortunately, yes lol.
Saige… you were an extremely difficult character to follow around. She was basically a walking guide of exactly what NOT to do. Girl, please get your shit together. And I’m sorry, but the fact that she kept referring to Elias’ dog as her dog genuinely bothered me. Sweetie, that is not your dog. You cannot simply manifest ownership because you live in the same house as it. Delusional behaviour.
Elias, I love a brooding asshole of a man. Truly, it is a weakness of mine. And I was enjoying every bit of it… right up until what he did at the end. Sir. Absolutely not. You were doing so well and then decided to ruin it for yourself.
Dax and Nolan… you both have some serious shit to work through. I don’t know if you two are destined to be with each other either. Honestly, I think you need to take a little break from relationships and focus on yourselves. Maybe sit down. Reflect. Heal. Do some journaling. Something.
Overall, this book was completely ridiculous, but somehow I couldn’t put it down. I had fun, I was entertained, and sometimes that’s all I need. Did I question everyone’s decision making skills? Constantly. Did I still keep reading? Absolutely.
This was one hell of a ride. Absolutely unhinged, slightly questionable, and at times I was sitting there thinking, what the actual fuck am I reading? But did I have a good time? Unfortunately, yes lol.
Saige… you were an extremely difficult character to follow around. She was basically a walking guide of exactly what NOT to do. Girl, please get your shit together. And I’m sorry, but the fact that she kept referring to Elias’ dog as her dog genuinely bothered me. Sweetie, that is not your dog. You cannot simply manifest ownership because you live in the same house as it. Delusional behaviour.
Elias, I love a brooding asshole of a man. Truly, it is a weakness of mine. And I was enjoying every bit of it… right up until what he did at the end. Sir. Absolutely not. You were doing so well and then decided to ruin it for yourself.
Dax and Nolan… you both have some serious shit to work through. I don’t know if you two are destined to be with each other either. Honestly, I think you need to take a little break from relationships and focus on yourselves. Maybe sit down. Reflect. Heal. Do some journaling. Something.
Overall, this book was completely ridiculous, but somehow I couldn’t put it down. I had fun, I was entertained, and sometimes that’s all I need. Did I question everyone’s decision making skills? Constantly. Did I still keep reading? Absolutely.
September 14, 2026
𝐃𝐚𝐱 𝐠𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐬𝐦, 𝐚 𝐗𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐱, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞.
This book literally sits you down and looks you straight in the face and says "𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘴? 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘰𝘴? 𝘚𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘺-𝘨𝘰-𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥? 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘧*𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘣𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘺 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦" 😂😂😂
OMFG! After reading Gods of Tomorrow I just knew that I had to check out more book from this author and I can without a doubt say that I was not disappointed by this book. Setting aside the spice for now which is off the chart 🔥🔥🔥
The characters in this book are just WOW. I devoured this book in a day because I became so invested in this story and what was going on. The tension keeps you on the edge of your seat while silently cursing to yourself. My heart wanted toxic and this book delivered. It gave me every single thing I asked for and some I didn't even know I needed.
I was dubious about this book because I had trust issues with how the first book of Gods of Tomorrow ended. But you know what I'm so damn glad I waited until the second book was out because I was go mad with waiting with how the first book ended.
This book checked all the boxes. Nolan... Aww I just wanna give that guy a hug. Dax. Well, he's like a little doped up fairy trapped in a jar. Shake him and he goes crazy. Then you have Elias. My little walking 🚩🚩🚩 So much going on in this book you can't help but love each of the guys individually and they sure as hell have their moments.
Then Saige... Girl, I am here for her. About time you stand up and kick Elias's a$$ he deserves it after everything 😂 Overall an amazing start to the series and I can't wait to read the next one. Oh and be sure to check your 🚨Trigger Warnings🚨 for this book. So many but so damn worth it. Deserves more than 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book literally sits you down and looks you straight in the face and says "𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘴? 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘰𝘴? 𝘚𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘺-𝘨𝘰-𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥? 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘧*𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘣𝘶𝘮𝘱𝘺 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦" 😂😂😂
OMFG! After reading Gods of Tomorrow I just knew that I had to check out more book from this author and I can without a doubt say that I was not disappointed by this book. Setting aside the spice for now which is off the chart 🔥🔥🔥
The characters in this book are just WOW. I devoured this book in a day because I became so invested in this story and what was going on. The tension keeps you on the edge of your seat while silently cursing to yourself. My heart wanted toxic and this book delivered. It gave me every single thing I asked for and some I didn't even know I needed.
I was dubious about this book because I had trust issues with how the first book of Gods of Tomorrow ended. But you know what I'm so damn glad I waited until the second book was out because I was go mad with waiting with how the first book ended.
This book checked all the boxes. Nolan... Aww I just wanna give that guy a hug. Dax. Well, he's like a little doped up fairy trapped in a jar. Shake him and he goes crazy. Then you have Elias. My little walking 🚩🚩🚩 So much going on in this book you can't help but love each of the guys individually and they sure as hell have their moments.
Then Saige... Girl, I am here for her. About time you stand up and kick Elias's a$$ he deserves it after everything 😂 Overall an amazing start to the series and I can't wait to read the next one. Oh and be sure to check your 🚨Trigger Warnings🚨 for this book. So many but so damn worth it. Deserves more than 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 12, 2026
This one feels different than the other Elle books I’ve read. For starters, it didn’t emotionally body slam me and leave me face down in the dirt. ...which is suspicious. 🤨
I have a feeling book two is going to absolutely ruin my life, so I’m pregrieving (it's like pregaming, only sadder) and hydrating accordingly.
Make it Hurt is a dark college romance centered around Saige, her step brother, and his two best friends. It's an Elle Mitchell book, so obviously the characters are all going to have questionable morals, but I loved them all. The growth that each of them shows is tremendous and they feel like real people rather than just the stick figures that are normally dancing around in my brain while I read.
Angst, pain, fear, and heartbreak all play pivotal roles in this story. They intertwine and create this wonderful, dark, questionably romantic web of trauma and spice. ... and ohhh, the spice. 🫠
Another banger from my girl. I’m endlessly proud of her for cranking these stories out and somehow keeping herself (mostly) sane while doing it just so we can dive into these chaotic worlds we love reading about… but would probably not survive in. 😅
Bring on book 2... I'm ready.
(no i'm not)
I have a feeling book two is going to absolutely ruin my life, so I’m pregrieving (it's like pregaming, only sadder) and hydrating accordingly.
Make it Hurt is a dark college romance centered around Saige, her step brother, and his two best friends. It's an Elle Mitchell book, so obviously the characters are all going to have questionable morals, but I loved them all. The growth that each of them shows is tremendous and they feel like real people rather than just the stick figures that are normally dancing around in my brain while I read.
Angst, pain, fear, and heartbreak all play pivotal roles in this story. They intertwine and create this wonderful, dark, questionably romantic web of trauma and spice. ... and ohhh, the spice. 🫠
Another banger from my girl. I’m endlessly proud of her for cranking these stories out and somehow keeping herself (mostly) sane while doing it just so we can dive into these chaotic worlds we love reading about… but would probably not survive in. 😅
Bring on book 2... I'm ready.
(no i'm not)
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