Brutally Broken

by K. L. Ulrich

She thought the worst part of her life was over. She was wrong.

Olivia has spent the past ten years running from her past and rebuilding her life into something she can be proud of. As a member of the New York City’s SWAT team, she no longer feels helpless and unable to protect herself…
Until her PTSD rears its ugly head when her ex-husband is released on parole. Her emotions run high, and she ends up in the arms of her Sergeant.

Sage was the department’s playboy until she arrived. But coveting her for the last few years was a secret he kept to himself. Now he’s determined to make her his, while battling her demons along the way. Protecting her isn’t a job—it’s personal.
Now faced with threatening letters from an unknown stalker and her lover’s quest to erase her trauma triggers, Olivia is left with turmoil between the two.
As danger closes in, she is desperate to find answers.

But the truth is more terrifying than she ever imagined.

***This is a dark romance that includes graphic content such as SA. Please check the trigger warnings***

Genres: Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Romance

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 22, 2026

About the author

K. L. Ulrich resides in a small town in Pennsylvania. When she isn't working her full time job as a registered nurse, you can find her nose in a book, fingers on the keyboard, hands on a gaming controller, or twisting the throttle.

Reviews

[Buffy・❥・ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please for the love of the gods before you read this book *** CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS *** this was a beautifully written DARK, all sorts of fucked up read about how trauma can rip you in two but the good things in life can piece you back together. This was a very very hard read, at times I had to take breaks because of how dark it got but overall the author did a good job piecing everything together. For the sake of the FMC I really hate how this ended and I almost hope there isn’t a second book just so I won’t have to read about her going through hell again

[Kaitlyn Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Brutally Broken by K.L. Ulrich was AMAZING! I absolutely loved this book! 😭🔥

I was completely hooked from beginning to end. This story had everything I want in a dark romance—intense chemistry, emotional moments, tension, obsession, and characters that completely consume your thoughts.

I LOVED Liv and Sage! Their dynamic was everything. The chemistry between them was 🔥, and watching their relationship unfold had me completely invested. Liv was such a great character, and I loved watching her navigate everything thrown her way.

And Sage… UGH. 🥵🔥 Sage is SO HOT. That’s all. 😂 But seriously, there was something about him that had me absolutely obsessed. His confidence, intensity, and the way he was with Liv had me SWOONING.

This book had me feeling ALL the emotions. I laughed, I stressed, I swooned, and I definitely did not want to put it down. The characters got under my skin in the best possible way, and I already know Liv and Sage are going to stick with me for a while.

Brutally Broken was dark, addictive, spicy, and SO GOOD. This is definitely one of those books where you finish it and immediately want more. 🖤🔥

If you love dark romance, intense chemistry, morally gray men, strong heroines, and a book boyfriend who has you screaming “UGH, SAGE!” every five minutes… READ THIS ONE. 😮‍💨🔥

[ChokeholdByFiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was definitely an emotional ride from beginning to end.
The flashbacks into Liv's past and the trauma she endured with her abusive husband were genuinely heartbreaking. But Liv got out. She rebuilt herself, began to heal and along the way, became a total badass. I loved seeing the contrast between the woman she once was and the woman she fought so hard to become.
And honestly? Everyone needs a Sergeant William Sage in their life. 🥹🥰 He was such a sweetheart. He gradually becomes a safe space for Liv, standing beside her as she works through her trauma without trying to erase what happened to her. I absolutely loved their chemistry and the relationship that developed between them.
And the found family?! Seeing Liv surrounded by people who genuinely loved her and stood by her through some incredibly difficult moments was beautiful.
I won't lie, for me personally, the story surrounding the ex was fairly predictable for most of the book. I had my suspicions pretty early on about where that part of the story was heading, but it honestly didn't take away from my enjoyment. The very end, however, DID catch me off guard... mostly because I went into this thinking it was a standalone. 😂 Apparently I was very wrong, and now I need book two.
The author did a fantastic job of blending some incredibly devastating and difficult topics with suspense, romance, found family and most importantly, healing. Despite how dark the story becomes, that journey towards reclaiming your life after trauma remained at its heart. 🖤

Please, please check the trigger warnings before going into this one. It deals with some extremely heavy subject.

[Chelsei Worley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my god. The turns the book had, I was not expecting this crazy turn of events.. I cried so much. Check your triggers, I went in blind and it dug deep!!!

[JustJen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I DEVOURED THIS BOOK!!

Seriously, whoever is reading this review, read it. Put it at the very top of your TBR because it is that good.

Sage and Liv had me completely hooked. Their love is palpable, the chemistry is incredible, and the spice is spicing. This is absolutely not a read a few chapters and put it down book. I had to read it in one sitting because apparently sleep is optional when a book is this good.

I laughed, I swooned, I got completely invested, and now I have one very serious problem...

I NEED BOOK 2.

Do yourself a favour and read this one. You can thank me later. What an amazing debut book for K.L!

[Grace · Rating 2 out of 5]

Was really looking forward to this one. No small town setting, no unrealistic billionaire. No damsel in distress, or so I thought… ended up DNF at 60%

Olivia has an extremely traumatic past but has overcome the odds to have her abuser imprisoned and worked hard to become a SWAT team member. Unfortunately, in my view the author tends to forget this occasionally and has written Olivia with pretty weak tendencies like collapsing when she gets bad news. I had wanted to see her as a much stronger character who is still dealing with the trauma but wants to overcome it. Instead she seems to want to stay in that past and re-live it. The flashback sections lean into that narrative in my view in the form of constant reoccurring nightmares.

I also found the nicknames used by her best friend and the MMC quite minimising to Olivia’s character. BFF calls her Baby girl while the MMC uses Baby Bird. MMC is also Olivia’s superior officer and had been using that name before they started dating, which I found really inappropriate for workplace setting.

The use of odd words such adjourn and retire, when explaining movement from one room to another were pretty jarring too. While I was glad to see the use of overused phrases like sip/sipping were avoided. These words just did not fit with working class New York City police environment. The word “divulge” was even used while FMC was hooking up with MMC.

I believe there good be a really good story here but unfortunately the balance of showing strength while being able to showing vulnerability when needed was not met.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book! It had me hooked from the very first chapter. I went into it expecting a pretty predictable forbidden romance with the brother's best friend trope, but I was so incredibly wrong.

Olivia is such a strong, kick-ass NYC SWAT officer who refuses to let her past define her. I really appreciated that she didn't need a man to come in and save her from the trauma of her abusive relationship. Instead, Sage stands beside her, supporting her through her healing journey without ever taking away from her own strength. The way he helps her through her trauma was just another green flag for this man.

And the chemistry between them? Chef's kiss. Their connection was everything. I loved Sage from the beginning, with his patience, kind heart, and protective nature. He was exactly the kind of book boyfriend I love—supportive, respectful, and fiercely devoted.

This book had everything I look for in a dark romance: emotional depth, heartbreaking moments, suspense, and plenty of spice. I couldn't put it down because every chapter left me needing to know what happened next.

I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I want is a Sage in my life!

Sage and Liv work together and probably shouldn’t be in a romantic relationship together, especially in the type of work they do. But, they make such a sweet couple! This book is well written and the story is so engaging. I did not want to put it down! There is a wonderful mix of spice and suspense that creates a thrilling tale. The characters are incredibly perfect for each other with Sage being there for Liv and wanting nothing more than to create a happy, fulfilled life for her. Liv’s trauma makes it harder for her to accept all that he offers and ultimately her past comes roaring back in the worst way. No spoilers, but I can’t wait to read the book 2 and see how this story weaves into the next one! Spicy, steamy, suspenseful, some triggers, great dialogue, love the secondary characters (maybe mains for the next book??) and I highly recommend this book!

[Charley James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an emotional rollercoaster from beginning to end. The author did a wonderful job blending suspense, romance, and emotional healing into a story that kept me hooked. Olivia is a strong, resilient heroine whose struggles with PTSD felt authentic and heartfelt, making it easy to root for her every step of the way.

The chemistry between Olivia and Sage is undeniable. Sage isn't just a protective love interest—he's patient, supportive, and determined to help Olivia heal without overshadowing her strength. Their relationship develops naturally, adding warmth to an otherwise tense and dangerous storyline.

The mystery surrounding the threatening letters kept me guessing, and the action was perfectly balanced with the emotional moments. If you enjoy romantic suspense featuring strong characters, high stakes, healing from trauma, and a swoon-worthy protector, this is definitely a book worth picking up. I can't wait to read more from this author!

[Athena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read.

Loved this book! It had me hooked from the very beginning. I expected a predictable forbidden romance with a brother’s best friend storyline, but I was completely wrong.

Olivia is a strong, kick-ass NYC SWAT officer who doesn’t need a man to save her from the trauma of her past. Instead, she has the tall, handsome Sage by her side, helping her navigate the hardest parts of healing from an abusive relationship without overshadowing her own strength.

This book had everything I look for in a dark romance—emotional depth, heartbreaking moments, suspense, and plenty of spicy scenes. It was impossible to put down, and I found myself wanting to know what happened next with every chapter.

If you love dark romance with a resilient female lead, an unforgettable hero, and the perfect balance of emotion and spice, I highly recommend this one!

[Ilaria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sh*t was inteeeense, guys!!!

The chemistry between these two had me SWEATING. The tension, the emotions, the moments that had me worrying and holding my breath… I was so invested in their story!
And the spicy scenes? 🫠 Beautifully written, detailed without being vulgar, and perfectly balanced. No unnecessary chapters filled with the same thing over and over, just the right amount at the right moments, adding to their connection and the story.
As someone who isn't the biggest dark romance girlie, I can honestly say this one surprised me in the best way possible. If dark romance isn't usually your thing, GIVE IT A CHANCE!
I'm diving straight into book two because I need more 😩🖤

[Megan Dill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This book had me hooked, never wanting to put it down without finishing just *one more* chapter. The suspenseful story was great, and left me wanting more! Sometimes I felt like the spicy scenes were a bit much, but I get how they were used as a type of therapy and were definitely necessary for Olivia. Sage was perfect. Major trauma content including torture and mental, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Definitely read the trigger warnings before diving in blind!! When is book 2 coming out?!!!!

[Barbara Gobbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

After leaving an abusive marriage, Olivia goes to school to become a police officer and later joins NYPD SWAT team. Her sergeant, Sage, has been in love with her since he first laid eyes on her and they turn from friends to lovers. But her ex has just been released from prison, and he will stop at nothing to get to her.

This was sooo good! If you like a little mystery/thriller with your romance, AND some delicious spice, read this one!

Check trigger warnings, because it is dark.

[Alexis ☕️🐈‍⬛📖💜 · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

serving


First book in this new series by a new author and she slayed it. I love that she was able to balance enough action with enough spice that it didn’t seem like either one was dominating the series intro. To say I inhaled this book is an understatement and I can’t wait to see what else comes from this crew of SWAT team members. The book is sad as a dual perspective from the lead mail and lead female I’m both characters are fierce. Check the trigger warnings if you have any.

[Natasha Hinesman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was not prepared for how BRUTALLY dark and sexually explicit this book was. That was my fault for not reading the full description on Amazon Kindle! There are many trigger warnings you should be aware of - DV, r*pe, etc.

While the storyline was well written, the sexual explicit scenes made it hard to read. I ended up skipping over MANY scenes. It’s so heartbreaking, knowing this is real life for so many women.

[Megan Jabbar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check your Triggers for sure!

This story absolutely devastated me at times. There are multiple scenes of SA current and memory. Please check your TW! The plot is so intense. My heart broke for Liv and for Sage too. The tension and love between them is beautiful. When it comes to the actual spice in this book, it’s incredible. I will be starting to second book now. Phenomenal story!

[bookishcatreads · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one! However, I can’t help feeling that the story could have been wrapped up within a single book. I’m struggling to see where the story is going to go in book two, but I’m invested enough to read it and complete the series.

It was left on a bit of a cliffhanger, which certainly makes things interesting. Although, I do feel it’s a shame Olivia didn’t quite get the true happy ending I was expecting her to have.

[Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Having a past with dv myself, I loved watching Olivia heal herself & find her inner strength & pushing through her trauma to find peace & happiness again. Sage was beautifully written & the emotions I could feel through him throughout the book brought tears to my eyes. I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author!

[Corrinne Benesh · Rating 1 out of 5]

this book had a lot of potential, but it just fell flat. i loved the idea of two SWAT members falling in love, but i wasn't expecting it to happen in the first chapter. i would have preferred more buildup and more angst. i'm sure there will be a second one, and i'm not desperate to finish the series.

[Mary Meyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t often read spice that is also murder/mystery so it was a nice change. I loved the friendship/family with Olivia’s unit and then of coarse the developing relationship with Sage. I loved his character. The spice was great. The storyline was a bit predictable and the twist at the end left me confused but over all it was an easy and entertaining read.

[Amy]

Triggering- most of the second half of the book i had to skip. Only reason I didn't dnf was to see how it ended...but it was a cliffhanger. As much as I'd like to know how it ends in the next book, (especially with the two main characters) I can't.

Writing and characters were excellent, and the ptsd was done so well.

[Stacey Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is approximately 85% sex and it does get a bit repetitive so I found myself skim reading all the sex. Had the potential to be a really great thrilling read but it was so obvious who the “problem” was in this story and seeing as the two leads are SWAT, its far fetched to think they wouldn’t have figured that out. I did enjoy this book but it could have been so much better

[Kourtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

first book?!

I can’t believe this is the authors first book. She wrote this incredibly well and I loved every second of it. I could not put it down! The healing. The trauma. The flashbacks. Everything was perfect.

[Karacin Lane · Rating 2 out of 5]

Please look at triggers before reading this book. It has very heavy topics and things I have never had to actually read happen on page before. I was able to read his book fully but please be prepared.

[Emily Keller · Rating 1 out of 5]

All they’re doing in this book is fucking. There is no plot. She’s going through three traumatic experiences (missing dad, abusive husband getting out of prison & ptsd flashbacks) AND ALL THEY DO IS FUCK!!! I kid you not they fuck about 85% of the whole book.

[jayyyyyy · Rating 5 out of 5]

um holy shit

TALK ABOUT A WILD ASS RIDE. WOWEOWOWOW 10/10 Stars. Had my heart racing, I couldn’t put the book down. This was honestly so beautifully done, tragic yes but holy shit. I ate that shit up baby

[Brianna Chirino · Rating 3 out of 5]

not what I expected

I think this book has a lot of potential. However, I think it was too long. The suspense was great and the spice level was good, sometimes too much but I think it could have arrived to the concision earlier.

Overall 3/5

[MandaC86 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark and gritty romance

This was gritty and dark but I liked it but it did end a sort of cliffhanger and thankfully book 2 is out I don't have to wait for it because I need theclosure of getting the answers that we all want I just hope that they get there HEA

[Kelly Noland · Rating 5 out of 5]

so good

Brutally Broken was well written even if I didn’t like the ending lol. Liv and Sage is a couple I could read about anytime.

[Phoebe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Felt like I was just dropped off in the middle of the book, like I’d missed so much character building