What do you think?
Rate this book
Breaking Lucas
Lucas Thorne built his empire on control.
As the ruthless CEO of a billion-dollar empire, his life runs on discipline, strategy, and absolute authority. He doesn’t do complications. And he certainly doesn’t do feelings.
Then he meets Laura Stone.
Two days in Maui were supposed to be a temporary lapse in judgment. Sharp-tongued, unimpressed, and completely immune to his reputation, Laura is nothing like the women Lucas usually chooses.
Their chemistry is instant. Impossible.
The rules were No promises. No expectations.
It was supposed to stay in paradise.
Until Laura walks into a boardroom and finds Lucas Thorne sitting at the head of the table.
Now, the man she thought was a reckless vacation mistake is her most important client. The COO hired her to save their brand, but Lucas is making it clear he doesn't want her anywhere near his company.
He’s cold. He’s calculated. And he’s an arsehole.
But behind closed doors, the air is thick with a heat they both want to fight. Lucas is determined to push her away. Laura is determined to prove she’s the best in the business.
He’s the one man who makes her lose her professional cool.
She’s the only woman who makes him lose his mind.
***
Breaking Lucas is a standalone, high-heat billionaire romance set in the Skyscrapers & Sin universe. It features a morally grey, possessive hero, explicit language, and intense power dynamics.
Billionaire Alpha • Enemies to Lovers • Forced Proximity • Workplace Power Games • High Heat / High Angst • Inter-connected standalone (no cliffhanger!)
As the ruthless CEO of a billion-dollar empire, his life runs on discipline, strategy, and absolute authority. He doesn’t do complications. And he certainly doesn’t do feelings.
Then he meets Laura Stone.
Two days in Maui were supposed to be a temporary lapse in judgment. Sharp-tongued, unimpressed, and completely immune to his reputation, Laura is nothing like the women Lucas usually chooses.
Their chemistry is instant. Impossible.
The rules were No promises. No expectations.
It was supposed to stay in paradise.
Until Laura walks into a boardroom and finds Lucas Thorne sitting at the head of the table.
Now, the man she thought was a reckless vacation mistake is her most important client. The COO hired her to save their brand, but Lucas is making it clear he doesn't want her anywhere near his company.
He’s cold. He’s calculated. And he’s an arsehole.
But behind closed doors, the air is thick with a heat they both want to fight. Lucas is determined to push her away. Laura is determined to prove she’s the best in the business.
He’s the one man who makes her lose her professional cool.
She’s the only woman who makes him lose his mind.
***
Breaking Lucas is a standalone, high-heat billionaire romance set in the Skyscrapers & Sin universe. It features a morally grey, possessive hero, explicit language, and intense power dynamics.
Billionaire Alpha • Enemies to Lovers • Forced Proximity • Workplace Power Games • High Heat / High Angst • Inter-connected standalone (no cliffhanger!)
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
About the author
Elara Ellison
3 books4 followersElara Ellison writes billionaire romance where control is currency - and no one gives it up easily.
Her men are powerful, disciplined, and used to winning.
Her women are sharp, self-possessed, and more than capable of holding their ground.
Set in a world of glass towers, private jets, and high-stakes deals, her stories are built on tension, power plays, and chemistry that doesn’t ask for permission.
Expect enemies who push too far. Deals that get personal. And relationships that burn long before they make sense.
The Skyscrapers & Sinners series begins with Breaking Lucas and continues with Taming Hunter.
If you like sharp dialogue, dominant heroes, and women who don’t fall easily—you’ll fit right in
Her men are powerful, disciplined, and used to winning.
Her women are sharp, self-possessed, and more than capable of holding their ground.
Set in a world of glass towers, private jets, and high-stakes deals, her stories are built on tension, power plays, and chemistry that doesn’t ask for permission.
Expect enemies who push too far. Deals that get personal. And relationships that burn long before they make sense.
The Skyscrapers & Sinners series begins with Breaking Lucas and continues with Taming Hunter.
If you like sharp dialogue, dominant heroes, and women who don’t fall easily—you’ll fit right in
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 8, 2026
Thank you #NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Coop, and Elara Ellison for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Off the bat, I did not like this formatting. I’m hoping it’s just because it’s an ARC but it really threw me off. There are a few grammatical errors too that need to be fixed.
I enjoyed this book. I felt like the author created a very strong main female character and overall lovable characters. I did want to scream, WE GET IT, SHES THICK after the author made multipleeee comments about her figure and weight. But that was really the only annoying thing about the book.
I found it had a great balance of an actual storyline and romance. I’ll definitely be checking out the second book.
Off the bat, I did not like this formatting. I’m hoping it’s just because it’s an ARC but it really threw me off. There are a few grammatical errors too that need to be fixed.
I enjoyed this book. I felt like the author created a very strong main female character and overall lovable characters. I did want to scream, WE GET IT, SHES THICK after the author made multipleeee comments about her figure and weight. But that was really the only annoying thing about the book.
I found it had a great balance of an actual storyline and romance. I’ll definitely be checking out the second book.
April 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
Breaking Lucas – Elara Ellison
If you love power plays, sharp banter, and explosive chemistry, this one is going straight onto your must-read list 🔥
Breaking Lucas delivers exactly what it promises: a high-heat, high-angst billionaire romance packed with tension from the very first page. Lucas Thorne is the definition of an “Ice King” — controlled, untouchable, and completely ruled by his own set of cold, calculated boundaries. And honestly? He’s infuriatingly addictive.
The story kicks off with a chance meeting in Maui that quickly turns into a no-strings arrangement… but of course, nothing stays simple. What starts as a sun-soaked escape spirals into something far more complicated when their worlds collide again in New York — this time with careers, power, and pride all on the line.
What really stood out to me was the dynamic between the main characters. This isn’t just romance — it’s a battle. Both characters are strong, driven, and unwilling to back down, which makes every interaction feel charged. The tension? Immaculate. The conflict? Constant. The chemistry? Absolutely undeniable 🔥
I especially loved:
The enemies-to-lovers energy that never lets up
The forced proximity in a high-stakes workplace setting
A heroine who doesn’t fold under pressure
And of course… Lucas Thorne, who is equal parts frustrating and irresistible
That said, the intense power dynamics and dominant alpha energy won’t be for everyone — but if that’s your thing, this book delivers in every way.
Overall, Breaking Lucas is a fast-paced, addictive read full of tension, secrets, and emotional push-and-pull that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Perfect for fans of: Billionaire romance • Workplace tension • Alpha heroes • High angst, high heat stories
Breaking Lucas – Elara Ellison
If you love power plays, sharp banter, and explosive chemistry, this one is going straight onto your must-read list 🔥
Breaking Lucas delivers exactly what it promises: a high-heat, high-angst billionaire romance packed with tension from the very first page. Lucas Thorne is the definition of an “Ice King” — controlled, untouchable, and completely ruled by his own set of cold, calculated boundaries. And honestly? He’s infuriatingly addictive.
The story kicks off with a chance meeting in Maui that quickly turns into a no-strings arrangement… but of course, nothing stays simple. What starts as a sun-soaked escape spirals into something far more complicated when their worlds collide again in New York — this time with careers, power, and pride all on the line.
What really stood out to me was the dynamic between the main characters. This isn’t just romance — it’s a battle. Both characters are strong, driven, and unwilling to back down, which makes every interaction feel charged. The tension? Immaculate. The conflict? Constant. The chemistry? Absolutely undeniable 🔥
I especially loved:
The enemies-to-lovers energy that never lets up
The forced proximity in a high-stakes workplace setting
A heroine who doesn’t fold under pressure
And of course… Lucas Thorne, who is equal parts frustrating and irresistible
That said, the intense power dynamics and dominant alpha energy won’t be for everyone — but if that’s your thing, this book delivers in every way.
Overall, Breaking Lucas is a fast-paced, addictive read full of tension, secrets, and emotional push-and-pull that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Perfect for fans of: Billionaire romance • Workplace tension • Alpha heroes • High angst, high heat stories
April 7, 2026
So glad I was able to get a copy through Netgalley. I appreciate it.
From the moment I realized Lucas had met his match in Laura, I was hooked. Honestly, I’m Team Laura all the way. She’s strong, confident, and refuses to be pushed around. No matter what Lucas tried to throw at her, she held her ground and made sure her voice was heard. And I loved that she didn’t just take it…she gave it right back.
Lucas and Laura’s relationship really gets put to the test, and this is where I started feeling some type of way. Lucas keeps choosing his business, while Laura is over here feeling like she has to be hidden, and I hated that for her. She deserved to be seen, to be chosen, and to be stood beside proudly. That tension made everything feel so real, and I was completely invested, rooting for Laura the entire time.
They both go through their own struggles. Lucas in the business world and Laura on a more personal level, but it’s how they handle it that really drives the story.
And that ending… the revenge? SO worth it. I wish I could’ve seen the look on Richard’s face in person because that fast-thinking move was everything.
From the moment I realized Lucas had met his match in Laura, I was hooked. Honestly, I’m Team Laura all the way. She’s strong, confident, and refuses to be pushed around. No matter what Lucas tried to throw at her, she held her ground and made sure her voice was heard. And I loved that she didn’t just take it…she gave it right back.
Lucas and Laura’s relationship really gets put to the test, and this is where I started feeling some type of way. Lucas keeps choosing his business, while Laura is over here feeling like she has to be hidden, and I hated that for her. She deserved to be seen, to be chosen, and to be stood beside proudly. That tension made everything feel so real, and I was completely invested, rooting for Laura the entire time.
They both go through their own struggles. Lucas in the business world and Laura on a more personal level, but it’s how they handle it that really drives the story.
And that ending… the revenge? SO worth it. I wish I could’ve seen the look on Richard’s face in person because that fast-thinking move was everything.
April 15, 2026
This was such a good, fun read. I was instantly drawn in by Lucas's green eyed intensity and Laura's badass quips. **And his sluttly little glasses**. I chuckled more than once when she put the Ice King in his place in this enemies to lovers, workplace power dynamic. I was a little distracted by the repetitive descriptors, but not enough to take me away from the story. I enjoyed the world building, that is setting up the series for the other characters. I can't wait to read book 2!
Perfect for fans of power plays, workplace forced proximity, billionaire romance, angsty chemistry
Thanks to the author, Elara Ellison, and Netgalley for the ARC
4/5 ⭐️
4/5 🌶
Perfect for fans of power plays, workplace forced proximity, billionaire romance, angsty chemistry
Thanks to the author, Elara Ellison, and Netgalley for the ARC
4/5 ⭐️
4/5 🌶
April 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this! Going into it I figured the spice would be right off the bat, but the build up between Lucas and Laura had me!
The characters felt developed and realistic, and the emotional buildup was natural and satisfying. I went in expecting something spicy (just spicy), but was surprised by the whole story. Laura and Lucas were particularly strong leads, with clear backstories and distinct personalities that carried the plot.
Overall this was a lovely balance between romance, tension, and character development! As always the side characters left me waiting for their stories too!
The characters felt developed and realistic, and the emotional buildup was natural and satisfying. I went in expecting something spicy (just spicy), but was surprised by the whole story. Laura and Lucas were particularly strong leads, with clear backstories and distinct personalities that carried the plot.
Overall this was a lovely balance between romance, tension, and character development! As always the side characters left me waiting for their stories too!
April 7, 2026
Well… somebody broke, but it wasn’t just Lucas. I broke too and read this whole book in a single day. At first, it’s cutesy, fun, and totally relaxing, so I was vibing with it. And then… BAM, they become enemies, and suddenly, I couldn’t put it down. I had to see who broke first, how, and what happened next.
The story follows two stubborn, brilliant people forced into close proximity, and the tension between them is ELECTRIC. Elara Ellison’s writing reminds me of J.T. Geissinger (my all-time favorite author). The book is witty, funny, and sharp, with strong quotable lines and pop culture references that make it extra entertaining.
If you’re into enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, forced proximity, and a ridiculously gorgeous, intelligent, stubborn MMC paired with an equally brilliant and stubborn FMC… do yourself a favor and pick this up. You won’t regret it.
The story follows two stubborn, brilliant people forced into close proximity, and the tension between them is ELECTRIC. Elara Ellison’s writing reminds me of J.T. Geissinger (my all-time favorite author). The book is witty, funny, and sharp, with strong quotable lines and pop culture references that make it extra entertaining.
If you’re into enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, forced proximity, and a ridiculously gorgeous, intelligent, stubborn MMC paired with an equally brilliant and stubborn FMC… do yourself a favor and pick this up. You won’t regret it.
April 9, 2026
Lucas and Laura off fun and sweet. So relaxing. Then vacation time is over and out come the barracudas when these two encounter one another in the professional world. His company needs help, and it’s her job to do it. But he doesn’t want her to. The tension between them needed a knife to get through. He wasn’t a nice man. But behind closed doors, he was something else entirely. And Laura was bi push over. She could take everything he dished and give it right back.
I loved the back forth between these two. The push and pull, his fake bravado. These two had serious chemistry. Loved every minute of this one.
I loved the back forth between these two. The push and pull, his fake bravado. These two had serious chemistry. Loved every minute of this one.
April 22, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for this incredible ARC to read! It took me a single day to read as I was enthralled! It was released in March, but I just received the ARC yesterday. I Love Love LOVE a Super Strong, Kick Ass, B*LL Busting FMC! Elara Ellison is an author now firmly on my radar, and I cannot wait for book two! If you enjoy a strong FMC, this read will not disappoint!
April 15, 2026
So good, loved it. It’s super sexy, incredibly well written. A great plot. I loved the coincidental meetings, it was written in the stars. Absolutely recommend this book. I’m already looking forward to the next part of the series.
April 9, 2026
After a brief fling in Maui, imagine the surprise to both lucas and Laura.
Laura is the new PR manager for Lucas' family firm. Lucas's is known as the 'Ice King' of new York. Laura is amazing at her job, she has worked in a man's world and can hold her own.
What happens when he starts freezing her out?? read on to find out
Laura is the new PR manager for Lucas' family firm. Lucas's is known as the 'Ice King' of new York. Laura is amazing at her job, she has worked in a man's world and can hold her own.
What happens when he starts freezing her out?? read on to find out
April 19, 2026
Rating: 3 ⭐️
Spice: 2-3 🌶️
Tropes: billionaire romance • workplace • second, third and fourth chance • lovers to enemies to lovers • high angst
I received an advance review copy (ARC) and am sharing my honest, unbiased review.
I am having serious problems reviewing this book, because I'm pulled in every direction at once. To sum up my struggle: good story, talented author, needs serious editing, waaaaaay too long, the groveling is nowhere to be seen.
Let me explain.
It's actually a good story. I liked the premise of vacation lovers thrown into real life and having to navigate a frankly horrible situation. And the author is talented, with an engaging writing style. But WOW, the book needs editing! Never mind the obvious errors in the book (they can't seem to agree on whether they were on Hawaii or Maui, continuity errors, and repeating of an entire paragraph in the book), the author takes the use of descriptions and adjectives to absurd levels and keeps repeating them, and on top of that the story could have been written in half the number of pages. I'm all about giving space for the story to live, but the book was downright boring at times.
What annoyed and even pissed me off at times more than anything was Laura, the female lead. She is maddeningly inconsistent. Deeply insecure and self-conscious, but a high-powered PR consultant, and she keeps flip-flopping back and forth between the two. And when Lucas treats her like shit over and over and over and over again, she still falls the second he's nice to her. There is no groveling, no making it up to her, just "ok, I can see why you are an asshole".
This book could have been great with some hard editing. I'm never going to like the "no grovel" approach, but that's a personal thing. Like I started with; the author is talented and clearly able to write a good book.
A quick note on the spice: it's there, and some of it is open door, but calling it "high heat" is a serious stretch for me.
This book is for you if you want a high angst and extremely hard-won HEA for a vacation romance meeting the real world of obligations and expectations.
Spice: 2-3 🌶️
Tropes: billionaire romance • workplace • second, third and fourth chance • lovers to enemies to lovers • high angst
I received an advance review copy (ARC) and am sharing my honest, unbiased review.
I am having serious problems reviewing this book, because I'm pulled in every direction at once. To sum up my struggle: good story, talented author, needs serious editing, waaaaaay too long, the groveling is nowhere to be seen.
Let me explain.
It's actually a good story. I liked the premise of vacation lovers thrown into real life and having to navigate a frankly horrible situation. And the author is talented, with an engaging writing style. But WOW, the book needs editing! Never mind the obvious errors in the book (they can't seem to agree on whether they were on Hawaii or Maui, continuity errors, and repeating of an entire paragraph in the book), the author takes the use of descriptions and adjectives to absurd levels and keeps repeating them, and on top of that the story could have been written in half the number of pages. I'm all about giving space for the story to live, but the book was downright boring at times.
What annoyed and even pissed me off at times more than anything was Laura, the female lead. She is maddeningly inconsistent. Deeply insecure and self-conscious, but a high-powered PR consultant, and she keeps flip-flopping back and forth between the two. And when Lucas treats her like shit over and over and over and over again, she still falls the second he's nice to her. There is no groveling, no making it up to her, just "ok, I can see why you are an asshole".
This book could have been great with some hard editing. I'm never going to like the "no grovel" approach, but that's a personal thing. Like I started with; the author is talented and clearly able to write a good book.
A quick note on the spice: it's there, and some of it is open door, but calling it "high heat" is a serious stretch for me.
This book is for you if you want a high angst and extremely hard-won HEA for a vacation romance meeting the real world of obligations and expectations.
April 11, 2026
I am an awe of authors like Elara Ellison... how they write books that just captivate you and leave you craving more.... with a book hangover for days - I knew the moment I saw "Breaking Lucas," and read the description, that this would be a book I would love..... I put off reading it until I could have uninterrupted time to devour it...and devour it, which I unequivocally did.
The angst...the tension.... the craving.... the slow burn meets heavy fire.... only to go back to slow burn.... 💋🤌 The sharp, witty banter.... oooh la la!!
Laura - she's been burned by a controlling, gaslighting, narcissistic ex & has used that to become the work boss that she is. She's a curvy girl who is confident in her skin... but delicate & wary underneath.... when Lucas picks her up... what woman doesn't crave that??? I just melted when he made her dreams come true like that, without his even knowing it.
Lucas - *SWOON*... he's every woman's dream... (maybe except for the ICE KING demeanor...but after you learn what he's been through...who can blame him???) He's a hurt man underneath... tired of being a pawn and craving the intimacy, the seeing, the balm that Laura gives....
I love Ethan & Theo's taunting, explaining why he's sending emails at 3am (because he's terrified)... how they & Elena saw what was really going on behind all the sharp banter.
This is book 1 in Skyscrapers & Sin.... I CANNOT wait to read the next book in the series!!! 🤩🥰
A HUGE Thank you to the author (Elara Ellison), publisher (Victory Editing) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
The angst...the tension.... the craving.... the slow burn meets heavy fire.... only to go back to slow burn.... 💋🤌 The sharp, witty banter.... oooh la la!!
Laura - she's been burned by a controlling, gaslighting, narcissistic ex & has used that to become the work boss that she is. She's a curvy girl who is confident in her skin... but delicate & wary underneath.... when Lucas picks her up... what woman doesn't crave that??? I just melted when he made her dreams come true like that, without his even knowing it.
Lucas - *SWOON*... he's every woman's dream... (maybe except for the ICE KING demeanor...but after you learn what he's been through...who can blame him???) He's a hurt man underneath... tired of being a pawn and craving the intimacy, the seeing, the balm that Laura gives....
I love Ethan & Theo's taunting, explaining why he's sending emails at 3am (because he's terrified)... how they & Elena saw what was really going on behind all the sharp banter.
This is book 1 in Skyscrapers & Sin.... I CANNOT wait to read the next book in the series!!! 🤩🥰
A HUGE Thank you to the author (Elara Ellison), publisher (Victory Editing) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
April 19, 2026
Breaking Lucas by Elara Ellison is a powerful, emotionally charged read that pulls you in from the very first page and refuses to let go. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t just tell you how the characters feel—it makes you feel it right alongside them.
What stands out most is the emotional depth. The story dives into vulnerability, healing, and the complicated layers of love in a way that feels raw and authentic. Lucas, in particular, is a beautifully written character—complex, guarded, and deeply human. Watching his walls slowly crack and shift is both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding.
The romance is intense and full of tension, built on moments that feel real and earned. There’s a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps you hooked, balancing emotional weight with undeniable chemistry. It doesn’t shy away from the harder moments, which only makes the connection feel stronger and more meaningful.
The pacing flows well, giving the story space to breathe while still maintaining that emotional pull. Every chapter adds something to the journey, building toward a conclusion that feels satisfying and impactful.
Overall, Breaking Lucas is a deeply moving and captivating read that blends heart, tension, and growth beautifully. It’s the kind of book that lingers long after the final page, leaving you thinking about the characters and everything they’ve been through.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What stands out most is the emotional depth. The story dives into vulnerability, healing, and the complicated layers of love in a way that feels raw and authentic. Lucas, in particular, is a beautifully written character—complex, guarded, and deeply human. Watching his walls slowly crack and shift is both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding.
The romance is intense and full of tension, built on moments that feel real and earned. There’s a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps you hooked, balancing emotional weight with undeniable chemistry. It doesn’t shy away from the harder moments, which only makes the connection feel stronger and more meaningful.
The pacing flows well, giving the story space to breathe while still maintaining that emotional pull. Every chapter adds something to the journey, building toward a conclusion that feels satisfying and impactful.
Overall, Breaking Lucas is a deeply moving and captivating read that blends heart, tension, and growth beautifully. It’s the kind of book that lingers long after the final page, leaving you thinking about the characters and everything they’ve been through.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2026
I got an ARC of this book. This is an enemies to lovers to enemies to lovers story. Laura sees Lucas on a long haul flight and she knows his type, he's very rich, cocky, and she does not give in to any of his smirky attractiveness. Lucas loves that she doesn't treat him with any deference because everywhere he goes people who know him practically fall at his feet. They end up at the same hotel in Maui and keep running into each other. The attraction builds each time and they agree to two explosively passionate nights together then never see each other again. Things do not end well and when they run into each other yet again, in New York when Laura is hired to work for his company, they are back to enemies. Lucas is the ice king, he is exacting and blunt but Laura again will not take his shit. They constantly bash heads when he insists on knowing how to do her job better than she can. I really loved the level of spite they both had while also trying to tamp down the lingering lust and attraction. Being that agitated everyday makes them explode and unable to keep their hand off each other. I liked how they were eventually able to talk through hurt feelings and how they found their way back to each other despite all the external forces but I thought the ending felt like an avalanche. There were a few too many revelations at the end that made it kind of muddy and lessened the impact. I did ultimately like how it wrapped up and thought the epilogue was really sweet.
June 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing Co-op for the ARC!
I had so much fun reading this billionaire workplace romance. Laura and Lucas meet in Maui (he's on a business trip, she's solo traveling), and the attraction between them is simply too hot to ignore. They agree to a no strings hookup while on vacay. The story really starts after they return home, and they unexpectedly find themselves paired up for business months after their hot Maui fling. It's a good thing there were no strings though 😅
This is definitely a spicy read. Their chemistry is steamy. If I were in their office in real life, I would have sprayed them down myself. Lucas is very possessive of Laura, and I loved reading his thoughts as he watched her interact with other people. The jealousy had me squealing. Laura is a strong take no shit FMC and she wasn't afraid to set anyone straight if they had her messed up including Lucas.
The story definitely has an HEA, but I was along for the ride until the end. This wasn't an emotionally damaging, angsty read. It felt uncomplicated, and I enjoyed not being wrapped up in their pain.
This is a great read for when you want something low key but still steamy and satisfying.
I had so much fun reading this billionaire workplace romance. Laura and Lucas meet in Maui (he's on a business trip, she's solo traveling), and the attraction between them is simply too hot to ignore. They agree to a no strings hookup while on vacay. The story really starts after they return home, and they unexpectedly find themselves paired up for business months after their hot Maui fling. It's a good thing there were no strings though 😅
This is definitely a spicy read. Their chemistry is steamy. If I were in their office in real life, I would have sprayed them down myself. Lucas is very possessive of Laura, and I loved reading his thoughts as he watched her interact with other people. The jealousy had me squealing. Laura is a strong take no shit FMC and she wasn't afraid to set anyone straight if they had her messed up including Lucas.
The story definitely has an HEA, but I was along for the ride until the end. This wasn't an emotionally damaging, angsty read. It felt uncomplicated, and I enjoyed not being wrapped up in their pain.
This is a great read for when you want something low key but still steamy and satisfying.
April 28, 2026
This book has potential, but needs some serious editing. It reads like a first rough draft someone just said hey let’s publish as is. I actually thought our female lead had gone to Hawaii because she quit her job and was starting over. Nope! Within one two sentence paragraph, a character has two different names. She mentions two best friends in London, but never spoken of again, but goes to NY and ends up with two best friends. Sentences repeated in consecutive paragraphs. So many inconsistencies- for example Lucas throws a scotch glass and shatters it in one sentence. The next he takes another sip of his drink. The timing of the story has inconsistencies too - inconsistent is the theme of this book.
Once I decided I couldn’t make it make sense, I just got through the book. A lot of prose and metaphors used - too many like the author had a lot of ideas and couldn’t figure out which one to go with. The romance was ok, but she just forgave too easily.
I won’t be reading more of this author. Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Once I decided I couldn’t make it make sense, I just got through the book. A lot of prose and metaphors used - too many like the author had a lot of ideas and couldn’t figure out which one to go with. The romance was ok, but she just forgave too easily.
I won’t be reading more of this author. Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Elara Ellison, and I have to say I was genuinely impressed.
The story completely drew me in from the very beginning and kept my attention all the way through. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely fantastic—natural, engaging, and full of tension in all the right ways.
I especially enjoyed how easy it was to connect with the characters and get invested in their journey. It’s the kind of book you don’t want to put down because you just need to know what happens next.
I’m giving this one 4.5 stars—not because anything major was missing, but simply because I tend to be a bit picky when it comes to giving out full five-star ratings.
Overall, a really enjoyable and captivating read, and I will definitely be checking out more from this author.
This was my first book by Elara Ellison, and I have to say I was genuinely impressed.
The story completely drew me in from the very beginning and kept my attention all the way through. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely fantastic—natural, engaging, and full of tension in all the right ways.
I especially enjoyed how easy it was to connect with the characters and get invested in their journey. It’s the kind of book you don’t want to put down because you just need to know what happens next.
I’m giving this one 4.5 stars—not because anything major was missing, but simply because I tend to be a bit picky when it comes to giving out full five-star ratings.
Overall, a really enjoyable and captivating read, and I will definitely be checking out more from this author.
May 13, 2026
This was a very fun read. I loved the plot, loved the characters (especially the potential stories for the side characters), the pacing was great, and the conflict kept me hooked.
I do have some notes.
The chapter and section transitions could use some work. At times, they were clunky and jarring and effected the narrative flow as the reader tried to figure out the connection to the other.
There were a lot of moments where either our fmc or our mmc (and even sometimes the side characters) would have a thought and then the other would say it out loud or use that unique terminology later. This could be cute one or two times to showcase their mental connection/compatibility. However, this happened so often that it just became unrealistic and a little annoying.
Overall, this was the pallet cleanser I was hoping for and will keep an eye out for what Elara Ellison works on in the future.
I do have some notes.
The chapter and section transitions could use some work. At times, they were clunky and jarring and effected the narrative flow as the reader tried to figure out the connection to the other.
There were a lot of moments where either our fmc or our mmc (and even sometimes the side characters) would have a thought and then the other would say it out loud or use that unique terminology later. This could be cute one or two times to showcase their mental connection/compatibility. However, this happened so often that it just became unrealistic and a little annoying.
Overall, this was the pallet cleanser I was hoping for and will keep an eye out for what Elara Ellison works on in the future.
April 15, 2026
Book 1 of the Skyscrapers & Sin series. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Breaking Lucas is a standalone billionaire romance set in the Skyscrapers & Sin universe. It features a possessive alpha hero, steamy scenes, explicit language, and intense power dynamics.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Breaking Lucas is a standalone billionaire romance set in the Skyscrapers & Sin universe. It features a possessive alpha hero, steamy scenes, explicit language, and intense power dynamics.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2026
Breaking Lucas is the kind of story that sinks its claws into you and doesn’t let go.
Lucas is all sharp edges and buried damage. The kind of man you know is going to wreck you, and somehow you lean in anyway. Watching him unravel while Laura refuses to back down? Addictive. 🔥
Their chemistry is raw, messy, and just the right amount of dangerous, with tension that practically bleeds off the page.
It’s emotional, a little brutal, and definitely steamy...but what hits hardest is the vulnerability hiding underneath all that control. 🖤
If you love a broken man being brought to his knees by the one person he never saw coming, this one delivers.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lucas is all sharp edges and buried damage. The kind of man you know is going to wreck you, and somehow you lean in anyway. Watching him unravel while Laura refuses to back down? Addictive. 🔥
Their chemistry is raw, messy, and just the right amount of dangerous, with tension that practically bleeds off the page.
It’s emotional, a little brutal, and definitely steamy...but what hits hardest is the vulnerability hiding underneath all that control. 🖤
If you love a broken man being brought to his knees by the one person he never saw coming, this one delivers.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 1, 2026
Thank you for the team & NetGalley for sharing the ARC with me
I enjoyed this story, and I found Part 2 a lot more captivating than Part 1.
Both Lucas and Laura are great characters, and I particularly enjoyed that for once is the man who “breaks” and actively fights for the girl! (Albeit after fighting it with all he could😂)
There’s tension, there’s glacial stares that turn into fire, there’s a head strong/ powerful boss woman as well as subterfuge and a family coupe!
Honestly there is nothing not to like in this book.
Also I’m so glad this is part of a series as some of the side characters have lot of potential also!
I enjoyed this story, and I found Part 2 a lot more captivating than Part 1.
Both Lucas and Laura are great characters, and I particularly enjoyed that for once is the man who “breaks” and actively fights for the girl! (Albeit after fighting it with all he could😂)
There’s tension, there’s glacial stares that turn into fire, there’s a head strong/ powerful boss woman as well as subterfuge and a family coupe!
Honestly there is nothing not to like in this book.
Also I’m so glad this is part of a series as some of the side characters have lot of potential also!
May 4, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Elara Ellison, Victory editing for opportunity read this book as ARC.
“She was sitting with a man who looked like he’d been grown in a lab specifically to annoy me.”
Oh Lucas the man you are…🫠
Lucas is a billionaire who needs to carry a family legacy on his shoulders.
Laura a PR genius who works her ass off.
She has a steamy vacation and now he is her boss.
The tension and chemistry between main character is amazing.
Spice scenes are detailed and hot .🥵
Had a great emotional roller coaster with these two and now patiently waiting for Theo book🖤
“She was sitting with a man who looked like he’d been grown in a lab specifically to annoy me.”
Oh Lucas the man you are…🫠
Lucas is a billionaire who needs to carry a family legacy on his shoulders.
Laura a PR genius who works her ass off.
She has a steamy vacation and now he is her boss.
The tension and chemistry between main character is amazing.
Spice scenes are detailed and hot .🥵
Had a great emotional roller coaster with these two and now patiently waiting for Theo book🖤
March 26, 2026
This is a good story made into a great story because of the best strong female lead I have had the pleasure to read about in a long time ! I want to go back and re-read just to memorise some of her one liners ! A really full length story that you wont want to put down with enough interest to read again and again . ( oh and the other characters are good too !).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 14, 2026
This was a good read, I love a strong FMC.
The MCs were so great together, I loved their first interactions.
Their relationship development was well done, it didn’t feel too quick or forced.
Recommend this book.
The MCs were so great together, I loved their first interactions.
Their relationship development was well done, it didn’t feel too quick or forced.
Recommend this book.
June 1, 2026
This book has two parts - the first is fire and second is ice. Both are packed with chemistry and angst as they have a whirlwind affair as strangers then back in the real world across the business table. Thankfully Lucas has brothers and I’m ready for more!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews