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Broken in Their Hands
Not yet published
Expected 25 May 26My Bully. His father. My Ruin.
“This is so, so wrong. You’re his son.”
They ruined my life, crushed my dreams. Killian and Ian—the guy I’ve always loved and his father.
Piece by piece, I rebuild my life and find new hope. But when Killian reappears like a ghost from my past and offers me a way back, I realize I’d do anything to achieve my broken dream: to play on a grand concert stage. Even if it means stepping straight back into the lion’s den—into the hands of the two men who broke me.
Their proposal is dangerous and depraved, but they already have me deep in their clutches, willing to do anything to achieve my dreams, aching to feel another kiss of that sweet depravity that has ruined me for anyone else.
But I’m not the only one who pays the price. What begins as a forbidden arrangement spirals into something far more volatile, baring old wounds, blurring the lines between control and surrender, love and destruction.
Soon none of us knows whether it’s all about to crash or we’re all finding a way to heal.
This dark taboo romance is angsty and explicit. It is written in multiple points of view. It deals with subjects and situations that might be uncomfortable to some readers. If you have any triggers at all, please check the list on the author’s website before diving in.
“This is so, so wrong. You’re his son.”
They ruined my life, crushed my dreams. Killian and Ian—the guy I’ve always loved and his father.
Piece by piece, I rebuild my life and find new hope. But when Killian reappears like a ghost from my past and offers me a way back, I realize I’d do anything to achieve my broken dream: to play on a grand concert stage. Even if it means stepping straight back into the lion’s den—into the hands of the two men who broke me.
Their proposal is dangerous and depraved, but they already have me deep in their clutches, willing to do anything to achieve my dreams, aching to feel another kiss of that sweet depravity that has ruined me for anyone else.
But I’m not the only one who pays the price. What begins as a forbidden arrangement spirals into something far more volatile, baring old wounds, blurring the lines between control and surrender, love and destruction.
Soon none of us knows whether it’s all about to crash or we’re all finding a way to heal.
This dark taboo romance is angsty and explicit. It is written in multiple points of view. It deals with subjects and situations that might be uncomfortable to some readers. If you have any triggers at all, please check the list on the author’s website before diving in.
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 25, 2026
About the author
Ella Jacobs
12 books483 followersElla Jacobs writes dark and kinky romance. Her books all center around Dom/sub dynamics, ranging from BDSM relationships with light dub con to pitch-black captor/captive stories with Stockholm syndrome and heavy non con.
What all her stories have in common is the emotional depth that makes them feel very raw and real. They will pull at all your heartstrings, maybe gut you and shock you, and take you through the emotional wringer.
Ella lives in Northern Europe, where she has been part of the BDSM community for many years. She lives her own age-gap romance with a stern, loving Dominant, who is always ready for some character analysis and rarely gets jealous when she falls in love with her fictional men.
Besides writing, Ella loves to play music and travel.
What all her stories have in common is the emotional depth that makes them feel very raw and real. They will pull at all your heartstrings, maybe gut you and shock you, and take you through the emotional wringer.
Ella lives in Northern Europe, where she has been part of the BDSM community for many years. She lives her own age-gap romance with a stern, loving Dominant, who is always ready for some character analysis and rarely gets jealous when she falls in love with her fictional men.
Besides writing, Ella loves to play music and travel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 16, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Broken in Their Hands is the kind of dark romance that wraps its fingers around your heart and squeezes until you’re not sure whether you’re aching from the pain or the pleasure. It’s emotionally raw, deeply forbidden, and impossible to put down.
At the center of the story is when Jenna's dreams were shattered by the very people she trusted most. Killian the bully who broke her and Ian, his father and the man she has always secretly loved, are two men tied to her deepest wounds and most dangerous desires. Just when she begins rebuilding her life, they return with an offer she cannot refuse: a chance to reclaim the dream she thought was lost forever.
And like any good dark romance, the cost is everything.
What makes this story so compelling is the emotional complexity. This isn’t simply about revenge or attraction. It’s about ambition, vulnerability, and the devastating pull of unfinished feelings. Jenna knows she is walking straight back into the lion’s den, yet her hunger to achieve her dreams and her inability to deny the connection she still feels makes every choice feel both reckless and heartbreakingly understandable.
Killian and Ian are captivating in very different ways. Killian carries the weight of past mistakes and unresolved tension, while Ian exudes a forbidden intensity that adds an extra layer of emotional conflict. Together, they create a dynamic that is as destructive as it is magnetic.
The story excels at exploring the blurred boundaries between love and ruin, control and surrender, and whether something born from pain can evolve into genuine healing. The tension is constant, and the emotional stakes are just as gripping as the taboo premise.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Broken in Their Hands is the kind of dark romance that wraps its fingers around your heart and squeezes until you’re not sure whether you’re aching from the pain or the pleasure. It’s emotionally raw, deeply forbidden, and impossible to put down.
At the center of the story is when Jenna's dreams were shattered by the very people she trusted most. Killian the bully who broke her and Ian, his father and the man she has always secretly loved, are two men tied to her deepest wounds and most dangerous desires. Just when she begins rebuilding her life, they return with an offer she cannot refuse: a chance to reclaim the dream she thought was lost forever.
And like any good dark romance, the cost is everything.
What makes this story so compelling is the emotional complexity. This isn’t simply about revenge or attraction. It’s about ambition, vulnerability, and the devastating pull of unfinished feelings. Jenna knows she is walking straight back into the lion’s den, yet her hunger to achieve her dreams and her inability to deny the connection she still feels makes every choice feel both reckless and heartbreakingly understandable.
Killian and Ian are captivating in very different ways. Killian carries the weight of past mistakes and unresolved tension, while Ian exudes a forbidden intensity that adds an extra layer of emotional conflict. Together, they create a dynamic that is as destructive as it is magnetic.
The story excels at exploring the blurred boundaries between love and ruin, control and surrender, and whether something born from pain can evolve into genuine healing. The tension is constant, and the emotional stakes are just as gripping as the taboo premise.
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC
May 20, 2026
Before you go into this, please READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, don’t skip them and read something that may affect your mental health because this book is very explicit, intense and insanely DARK. It’s emotional and physically manipulation at the highest levels and is very BDSM focused. But this book was a masterpiece and completely changed my brain chemistry. I could not put it down because of how absorbed I was into the storyline and how connected I was with the characters. The plot was pure chaos and sadism. She manipulated into doing a duet with her blackmailer, and former friend turned bully, and starts getting trained by his father. The forbidden love and tension is so strong in this one you can feel it radiating off the page. The flashbacks and dual timeline parts only added to the emotional intensity of the book, because I bawled at all the scenes of them as kids comparing it to their messed up dynamic in the present. I’ve never read a book where a father and son share a girl but there’s a first time for anything and I absolutely loved it. The plot was very intense and had many emotional scenes where I cried so much my eyes are still red now. There were some “twists” that terrified me but added to the intensity and made me love it more. I also love the character development in the book too, despite the high smut level of her books, Ella Jacob’s never skimps on the emotional connections and growth of her characters. Killian is seen as this heartless emotionless monster incapable of doing aftercare yet it all stems from childhood abandonment and fear of lot being enough. I loved watching him overcome everything and how Ian, his father, was there for him every step of the way. I also loved seeing how Ian began to trust his son again and I sobbed and got so emotional because of how Ian got to truly connect with Killian again. Lastly, Jenna has to be one of the strongest FMCs I’ve ever read, submitting to the dark and depraved desires of these two men takes great courage and I love how she found herself and love of music again through them (though I guess they were the ones who took it away in the first place). And it’s an Ella Jacob’s book so obviously the spice is TOO NOTCH, there’s so many fun kinks being explored but I do bring special attention to the pet play because that was a shocker. There’s no doubt about my rating encased this book very much deserves a 6/5
May 19, 2026
Raw, forbidden and emotional!
This dark taboo romance keeps you hooked with its emotional intensity and captivating story.
After ruining her life, Killian and Ian return into Jenna’s life with an offer she can’t refuse: achieve her broken dream.
A dangerous and depraved proposal that gets her straight to the hands of the men who broke her.
What started as a forbidden arrangement spiral into something more.
The book explores how their deep connection flows into an intense journey of vulnerability, pleasure, control, surrender, ruin, and healing, that makes their feelings and dynamics grow.
I really loved the constant tension and the emotional complexity of the characters.
Angsty and explicit, check triggers before reading!
This dark taboo romance keeps you hooked with its emotional intensity and captivating story.
After ruining her life, Killian and Ian return into Jenna’s life with an offer she can’t refuse: achieve her broken dream.
A dangerous and depraved proposal that gets her straight to the hands of the men who broke her.
What started as a forbidden arrangement spiral into something more.
The book explores how their deep connection flows into an intense journey of vulnerability, pleasure, control, surrender, ruin, and healing, that makes their feelings and dynamics grow.
I really loved the constant tension and the emotional complexity of the characters.
Angsty and explicit, check triggers before reading!
May 18, 2026
Ella Jacobs always amazes me with her writing, the characters she brings to life, and the stories she tells. I have never read one of her books that I did not enjoy, and this one was no exception. I loved the dynamics between the characters and the growth each of them went through. Broken in Their Hands really stirred a lot of emotion in me, especially seeing Killian’s development. Amazing work!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Broken in their Hands was a story i was looking forward to reading,especially after reading the blurb.
And knowing Ella Jacobs,i was prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride that would turn me inside out.
What i got though was beyond my expectations…..
Jenna desperately tried to hold onto a friendship that turned beyond sour,and kept trying to please a mother that didn’t care.
Trying to find light in a life that turned dark after her dream was shattered by the only friend she ever had.
And when that same so-called friend returned 5 years later demanding she did what he wanted,again?
She didn’t háve to give in,but she needed to know if that dream still could come true,somehow.
And she was prepared to suffer,again,to find out.
Handing herself over,voluntarily,to the same men that ruined her life before.
Taking that chance not only because she needed to,but because she’d always wondered what went wrong between them…..
Not just when they were 16,but long before that…..and somehow she still missed him,even though he’d been so cruel to her.
She may have been submissive down to her core,but that core was stronger than she,her friend and his father thought…..and she would need it,badly!
Killian was that friend,and what he did to Jenna when they were 16,was devastating.
Not only devastating,but cruel….shattering the dream she had of playing the piano on a level that could’ve given her the world.
But Killian wasn’t really that cruel boy,even if all the signs pointed in that direction.
And he wasn’t a cruel or cold hearted man now,even if that was all he showed.
And as i got to know him,i saw a troubled and traumatized soul.
One that needed his childhood friend more than he would admit.
He might’ve been a sadist,and a natural dominant,but deep down,all he yearned for was someone to love.
Only the walls he’d erected over the years were high,and he didn’t know how to tear them down.
Being near the only girl he’d ever had feelings for was hard,and could turn out to be a total disaster…..or the best thing that ever happened to him.
Ian,Killian’s father,only wanted what was best for his son,wanted to see him happy.
But ever since Killian’s mother left when he was only 8,life seemed to have fallen apart.
Giving Killian his dream of playing the piano was easy,and when that dream was threatened,he handed him the tools to secure it.
He didn’t regret destroying Jenna’s in the process,but once he got to know her,something changed.
She got under his skin,her natural submission touched his inner dominant in a way he never expected.
But at the same time,he still wanted to see Killian thrive….and be the man he knew he could be.
Finding a balance was hard,but he’d do anything to make the only 2 people he ever cared about happy.
To make up for the pain he’d caused in the past.
The journey these 3 traumatized souls had to go through to get the happy after they all deserved was painful to witness.
Mistakes were made,and hearts were broken,seemingly beyond repair.
But what rose from the ashes was strong,and so beautiful to see.
Even though it sometimes hurt so very badly,and even though sometimes i thought they were broken too badly to ever heal,Ella knew what they needed.
And she gave them exactly that,and so much more.
Leaving me very happy with where i left Jenna,Killian and Ian in the end.
And knowing Ella Jacobs,i was prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride that would turn me inside out.
What i got though was beyond my expectations…..
Jenna desperately tried to hold onto a friendship that turned beyond sour,and kept trying to please a mother that didn’t care.
Trying to find light in a life that turned dark after her dream was shattered by the only friend she ever had.
And when that same so-called friend returned 5 years later demanding she did what he wanted,again?
She didn’t háve to give in,but she needed to know if that dream still could come true,somehow.
And she was prepared to suffer,again,to find out.
Handing herself over,voluntarily,to the same men that ruined her life before.
Taking that chance not only because she needed to,but because she’d always wondered what went wrong between them…..
Not just when they were 16,but long before that…..and somehow she still missed him,even though he’d been so cruel to her.
She may have been submissive down to her core,but that core was stronger than she,her friend and his father thought…..and she would need it,badly!
Killian was that friend,and what he did to Jenna when they were 16,was devastating.
Not only devastating,but cruel….shattering the dream she had of playing the piano on a level that could’ve given her the world.
But Killian wasn’t really that cruel boy,even if all the signs pointed in that direction.
And he wasn’t a cruel or cold hearted man now,even if that was all he showed.
And as i got to know him,i saw a troubled and traumatized soul.
One that needed his childhood friend more than he would admit.
He might’ve been a sadist,and a natural dominant,but deep down,all he yearned for was someone to love.
Only the walls he’d erected over the years were high,and he didn’t know how to tear them down.
Being near the only girl he’d ever had feelings for was hard,and could turn out to be a total disaster…..or the best thing that ever happened to him.
Ian,Killian’s father,only wanted what was best for his son,wanted to see him happy.
But ever since Killian’s mother left when he was only 8,life seemed to have fallen apart.
Giving Killian his dream of playing the piano was easy,and when that dream was threatened,he handed him the tools to secure it.
He didn’t regret destroying Jenna’s in the process,but once he got to know her,something changed.
She got under his skin,her natural submission touched his inner dominant in a way he never expected.
But at the same time,he still wanted to see Killian thrive….and be the man he knew he could be.
Finding a balance was hard,but he’d do anything to make the only 2 people he ever cared about happy.
To make up for the pain he’d caused in the past.
The journey these 3 traumatized souls had to go through to get the happy after they all deserved was painful to witness.
Mistakes were made,and hearts were broken,seemingly beyond repair.
But what rose from the ashes was strong,and so beautiful to see.
Even though it sometimes hurt so very badly,and even though sometimes i thought they were broken too badly to ever heal,Ella knew what they needed.
And she gave them exactly that,and so much more.
Leaving me very happy with where i left Jenna,Killian and Ian in the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is something absolutely captivating in Ella's writing. I find myself enthralled and lost in the story. It brings powerful emotions that overtake everything around me. I'm no longer just sitting in my room reading I'm feeling it and on a whole new plane of existence. I feel heavy and overcome in all the best ways. I feel everything in my bones. When I have to stop reading I feel tremendous sorrow and overwhelming longing to return to the story and the words. I don't feel whole or steady until I keep reading. When I finish a book I always have to take a second to breathe. and take it all in and then immediately want to dive back in. I am constantly thinking about her stories and characters.
Broken In Their Hands is no exception.
Ian, Killian and Jenna are beautifully complex, powerful and masterfully crafted. The journey they go on together is heady, striking and a roller-coaster of emotions.
Ian and Killian are deliciously depraved and wicked. I really loved their father and son bond. Ian would do absolutely anything for his son and he does. Ian was not by any means a perfect father but he showed up for Killian and loved him fiercely. I loved the respect they each had for eachother. They worked together so well with Jenna.
We get a pov chapters from each of the characters throughout the book and I loved that. I really appreciated being able to see all the different sides of the story and being able to understand all the characters and their choices. I really loved seeing how a Dom's mind works and how they are affected by the relationship as well as the submissive side of things. It made the story more potent and striking.
I loved Ian. His dominance and strength were perfect. The way he was with Jenna was beautiful. He found fullfilment and comfort in comforting and holding Jenna. He wanted to push her to the edge and then pull her back. The things he would do to accomplish that were oh so wicked.
Killian, Killian, Killian. I found his character so interesting and heartbreaking. I think he goes on the biggest and hardest journey in this book. We get a glimpse of him and Jenna as kids and how they met and really liked that. He was the biggest jerk but by the end he found his way.
I adored Jenna. She is such a strong person. Everything in life was against her but she didn't let that stop her. She tried to work through all her trauma and heartache. She truly gave everything to have the life she wanted and deserved. I really admire her.
There was so much spice. It was taboo and degrading and oh so perfect. It was a perfect mix of plot and spice. It was everything you could want from a dark taboo romance and so much more. The elements and scenes were so good and I wanted more.
Ian, Killian and Jenna's love was epic and felt like a once in a lifetime kind of love.
Overall Broken In Their Hands was extraordinary. I would recommend it! But make sure to check the triggers before diving in.
Thank you to the author Ella Jacobs for the eARC!
Broken In Their Hands is no exception.
Ian, Killian and Jenna are beautifully complex, powerful and masterfully crafted. The journey they go on together is heady, striking and a roller-coaster of emotions.
Ian and Killian are deliciously depraved and wicked. I really loved their father and son bond. Ian would do absolutely anything for his son and he does. Ian was not by any means a perfect father but he showed up for Killian and loved him fiercely. I loved the respect they each had for eachother. They worked together so well with Jenna.
We get a pov chapters from each of the characters throughout the book and I loved that. I really appreciated being able to see all the different sides of the story and being able to understand all the characters and their choices. I really loved seeing how a Dom's mind works and how they are affected by the relationship as well as the submissive side of things. It made the story more potent and striking.
I loved Ian. His dominance and strength were perfect. The way he was with Jenna was beautiful. He found fullfilment and comfort in comforting and holding Jenna. He wanted to push her to the edge and then pull her back. The things he would do to accomplish that were oh so wicked.
Killian, Killian, Killian. I found his character so interesting and heartbreaking. I think he goes on the biggest and hardest journey in this book. We get a glimpse of him and Jenna as kids and how they met and really liked that. He was the biggest jerk but by the end he found his way.
I adored Jenna. She is such a strong person. Everything in life was against her but she didn't let that stop her. She tried to work through all her trauma and heartache. She truly gave everything to have the life she wanted and deserved. I really admire her.
There was so much spice. It was taboo and degrading and oh so perfect. It was a perfect mix of plot and spice. It was everything you could want from a dark taboo romance and so much more. The elements and scenes were so good and I wanted more.
Ian, Killian and Jenna's love was epic and felt like a once in a lifetime kind of love.
Overall Broken In Their Hands was extraordinary. I would recommend it! But make sure to check the triggers before diving in.
Thank you to the author Ella Jacobs for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I genuinely don’t even know how to explain this book without sounding insane... but then again... I was hooked in from the first page!
Broken in Their Hands is what happens when you mix obsession, trauma, filthy tension, piano prodigies, emotional damage and two morally questionable men who desperately need several licensed professionals and a lobotomy!
Killian is so so so intense. Absolute menace. A walking red flag wrapped in expensive cologne and obsession issues. His mean, obsessive, controlling, unhinged in the hottest/worst way. Every time he opened his mouth I was like 'this man is a crazy' and then immediately read on like my life depended on it... because I just could not look away! (And he has his moments you love him!!) Unfortunately I also support whatever deeply concerning thing Killian had going on. The man blackmails, manipulates, growls, and somehow still had me kicking my feet like an idiot every time he called Jenna “princess” or “kitten.”
And Ian... Oh Sir, Yes!!! (And he would love that title!) Why are you so calm while being equally terrifying and addicting?? The soft voice, the aftercare, the manipulation, the quiet control! *melts and says yes sir* That man could ruin my life and I’d probably thank him a million times over for it. Ella Jacobs, wow, what a man you wrote!! And his ‘good girls’…. There goes my legs!
But Jenna, poor Jenna... she honestly has my heart sore. She’s vulnerable and hurting and trying so so hard to hold herself together and watching her slowly unravel as I read while also finding pieces of herself again (and the mens hands) had me STRESSED! I wanted to hug her and shake her at the same time.
Also the piano/music parts... Weirdly beautiful and romantic! Like somehow this book made playing piano feel more intimate than half the smut I’ve read lately. Ella Jacobs has a talent for mixing the spicy and story just right, each entwined in a way you get just the right hit at the right time and can not put the book down or look away!
This book had me sitting there like 'wow this is deeply toxic' and then has you questioning 'but is it'. She has you looking deeper and understanding the characters actions by the end of a chapter.. And I loooove to read a book where I question whats normal... away from social norms we are taught growing up!
Ella Jacobs, I hope you sleep peacefully at night knowing you’ve permanently altered my brain chemistry and raised my standards for morally questionable fictional men to an irresponsible level. I will be sending you my therapy bill and my thanks simultaneously. This books definitely in the taboo section and I loved every second. But more importantly… when’s the next one because apparently I enjoy emotional destruction now and the 'life style'. Please mail me my own Ian and Killian ASAP!
Broken in Their Hands is what happens when you mix obsession, trauma, filthy tension, piano prodigies, emotional damage and two morally questionable men who desperately need several licensed professionals and a lobotomy!
Killian is so so so intense. Absolute menace. A walking red flag wrapped in expensive cologne and obsession issues. His mean, obsessive, controlling, unhinged in the hottest/worst way. Every time he opened his mouth I was like 'this man is a crazy' and then immediately read on like my life depended on it... because I just could not look away! (And he has his moments you love him!!) Unfortunately I also support whatever deeply concerning thing Killian had going on. The man blackmails, manipulates, growls, and somehow still had me kicking my feet like an idiot every time he called Jenna “princess” or “kitten.”
And Ian... Oh Sir, Yes!!! (And he would love that title!) Why are you so calm while being equally terrifying and addicting?? The soft voice, the aftercare, the manipulation, the quiet control! *melts and says yes sir* That man could ruin my life and I’d probably thank him a million times over for it. Ella Jacobs, wow, what a man you wrote!! And his ‘good girls’…. There goes my legs!
But Jenna, poor Jenna... she honestly has my heart sore. She’s vulnerable and hurting and trying so so hard to hold herself together and watching her slowly unravel as I read while also finding pieces of herself again (and the mens hands) had me STRESSED! I wanted to hug her and shake her at the same time.
Also the piano/music parts... Weirdly beautiful and romantic! Like somehow this book made playing piano feel more intimate than half the smut I’ve read lately. Ella Jacobs has a talent for mixing the spicy and story just right, each entwined in a way you get just the right hit at the right time and can not put the book down or look away!
This book had me sitting there like 'wow this is deeply toxic' and then has you questioning 'but is it'. She has you looking deeper and understanding the characters actions by the end of a chapter.. And I loooove to read a book where I question whats normal... away from social norms we are taught growing up!
Ella Jacobs, I hope you sleep peacefully at night knowing you’ve permanently altered my brain chemistry and raised my standards for morally questionable fictional men to an irresponsible level. I will be sending you my therapy bill and my thanks simultaneously. This books definitely in the taboo section and I loved every second. But more importantly… when’s the next one because apparently I enjoy emotional destruction now and the 'life style'. Please mail me my own Ian and Killian ASAP!
May 21, 2026
If you want a cute little love story, you might want to skip this one.
First things first: the book is very well written. It has a good story with a strong setup that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the book. The character development, especially Killian’s, is *chef’s kiss*.
That being said, there were also a couple of things that didn’t sit well with me.
Jenna is blackmailed into a BDSM-ish arrangement with the boy she’s had a crush on for years, Killian, and his father Ian. And I say -ish because there are no safe words, Jenna’s consent is debatable, hardly any boundaries were discussed beforehand and Jenna had absolutely zero say in the ones that were - there’s only complete submission. It’s also been made very clear from the beginning that Killian doesn’t give a rat’s ass about aftercare, but luckily that’s where daddy steps in because teamwork makes the dream work. Now, I don’t have any personal experience with BDSM so I’m not going to pretend I’m an expert, and I am aware that this is a dark romance so some of these elements are obviously supposed to contribute to that darkness rather than reflect reality. Still, all of the above didn’t seem like a great representation of BDSM to me.
Both Ian and Killian state that Jenna goes into ‘subspace’ more than once. To me though, given the circumstances where Jenna is repeatedly pushed past her boundaries - sometimes into full blown panic, it reads more like she’s dissociating. The fact that she’s not given a safe word only contributes to that feeling, since she’s not given a safe way out so it feels more like her brain shutting down to protect her instead of consensual surrender. Again, I am severely lacking in BDSM-related knowledge, but that is how it came across for me personally.
Objectively I 100% want to say this is a good book - great, even. Storyline, setup, writing style, pacing, character depth and development - no notes, very well done. Beautiful cover as well.
Subjectively though, I had a hard time getting into the story. As an avid reader of dark and taboo romance, and even the occasional erotic horror, I did not expect to be this uncomfortable during most of the story. Though I must admit I really enjoyed the last third of the book, where the emphasis is more on the character development (which is there throughout the whole story, just a lot more prominent towards the end).
(I received this book as an ARC and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
First things first: the book is very well written. It has a good story with a strong setup that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the book. The character development, especially Killian’s, is *chef’s kiss*.
That being said, there were also a couple of things that didn’t sit well with me.
Jenna is blackmailed into a BDSM-ish arrangement with the boy she’s had a crush on for years, Killian, and his father Ian. And I say -ish because there are no safe words, Jenna’s consent is debatable, hardly any boundaries were discussed beforehand and Jenna had absolutely zero say in the ones that were - there’s only complete submission. It’s also been made very clear from the beginning that Killian doesn’t give a rat’s ass about aftercare, but luckily that’s where daddy steps in because teamwork makes the dream work. Now, I don’t have any personal experience with BDSM so I’m not going to pretend I’m an expert, and I am aware that this is a dark romance so some of these elements are obviously supposed to contribute to that darkness rather than reflect reality. Still, all of the above didn’t seem like a great representation of BDSM to me.
Both Ian and Killian state that Jenna goes into ‘subspace’ more than once. To me though, given the circumstances where Jenna is repeatedly pushed past her boundaries - sometimes into full blown panic, it reads more like she’s dissociating. The fact that she’s not given a safe word only contributes to that feeling, since she’s not given a safe way out so it feels more like her brain shutting down to protect her instead of consensual surrender. Again, I am severely lacking in BDSM-related knowledge, but that is how it came across for me personally.
Objectively I 100% want to say this is a good book - great, even. Storyline, setup, writing style, pacing, character depth and development - no notes, very well done. Beautiful cover as well.
Subjectively though, I had a hard time getting into the story. As an avid reader of dark and taboo romance, and even the occasional erotic horror, I did not expect to be this uncomfortable during most of the story. Though I must admit I really enjoyed the last third of the book, where the emphasis is more on the character development (which is there throughout the whole story, just a lot more prominent towards the end).
(I received this book as an ARC and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ 9 out of 10
🌶️ 4 out of 5
Read this if you like:
→ Taboo romance where dad & son share the same girl
→ Age gap, teacher/student trope
→ Heavy list of TWs (which are delicious)
The moment Ella announced this book as her WIP I was immediately hooked because I very much enjoy ex-bf's dad trope. So why not twist it a little to make the dad & son (sans the ex) share the same girl?
Don't ever question how I like things, people.
To give you some background, Jenna and Killian are friends plus rivals. They met as kids & Jenna has a longtime crush on him. The two share the same passion for music, often compete in piano competitions. One night, Jenna outwins Killian & he does stuff as blackmail so she could be off the industry. For 5 years, Jenna does. But the catch is Killian's music lost its soul because the rivalry with Jenna actually keeps it alive & this is noticed by Ian (Killian's own father) who's a professional & accomplished pianist. So to make way for his son's success & since Killian is onboard anyway, they both offer Jenna certain proposition.
Among all pieces Ella has written, I think I have found my favorite. First of all, Jenna is like a breath of fresh air. I know she usually has her FMC demure & soft. Jenna still shares those traits but she's also vocal with her opinions and feelings. She's somewhat cheeky with an innocent sense of humor which makes her youthful persona more charming. Second of all, Killian's growth is super satisfying. I had a great time knowing his background/past. Plus I also get to know more about Ian. Everything he does for his son is with concrete reason. It's very sexy to see the different dynamic between the two Doms: one is a steady anchor & one is a fan of pushing Jenna to its limit.
I gotta say the scenes never fail to make me squirm. There's something in the one where Ian tells Jenna to scream & let it all out plus him standing on business with Killian. Ian is so controlled, even with Killian he's not hesitate to correct him. He truly guides him to fill in the role properly while also knowing when to push or hold. The angst is also sooo rewarding. Oh my God.
This has been the most seductive ARC I've ever read so far. I FINISHED THIS IN ONE DAY & NOW I'M HOT AND BOTHERED.
My fiancé's going to have a good time tonight.
🌶️ 4 out of 5
Read this if you like:
→ Taboo romance where dad & son share the same girl
→ Age gap, teacher/student trope
→ Heavy list of TWs (which are delicious)
The moment Ella announced this book as her WIP I was immediately hooked because I very much enjoy ex-bf's dad trope. So why not twist it a little to make the dad & son (sans the ex) share the same girl?
Don't ever question how I like things, people.
To give you some background, Jenna and Killian are friends plus rivals. They met as kids & Jenna has a longtime crush on him. The two share the same passion for music, often compete in piano competitions. One night, Jenna outwins Killian & he does stuff as blackmail so she could be off the industry. For 5 years, Jenna does. But the catch is Killian's music lost its soul because the rivalry with Jenna actually keeps it alive & this is noticed by Ian (Killian's own father) who's a professional & accomplished pianist. So to make way for his son's success & since Killian is onboard anyway, they both offer Jenna certain proposition.
Among all pieces Ella has written, I think I have found my favorite. First of all, Jenna is like a breath of fresh air. I know she usually has her FMC demure & soft. Jenna still shares those traits but she's also vocal with her opinions and feelings. She's somewhat cheeky with an innocent sense of humor which makes her youthful persona more charming. Second of all, Killian's growth is super satisfying. I had a great time knowing his background/past. Plus I also get to know more about Ian. Everything he does for his son is with concrete reason. It's very sexy to see the different dynamic between the two Doms: one is a steady anchor & one is a fan of pushing Jenna to its limit.
I gotta say the scenes never fail to make me squirm. There's something in the one where Ian tells Jenna to scream & let it all out plus him standing on business with Killian. Ian is so controlled, even with Killian he's not hesitate to correct him. He truly guides him to fill in the role properly while also knowing when to push or hold. The angst is also sooo rewarding. Oh my God.
This has been the most seductive ARC I've ever read so far. I FINISHED THIS IN ONE DAY & NOW I'M HOT AND BOTHERED.
My fiancé's going to have a good time tonight.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Let me start by saying that this was my first book by Ella Jacobs. I haven’t read her previous work yet, but several of her books have been sitting on my TBR for a while now. What really made me curious were her loyal readers, because they are always incredibly enthusiastic about her books. So when I saw this ARC opportunity, I was genuinely excited. Since I mostly read dark romance, I assumed this would fit perfectly within my usual taste.
And well… it turns out this one wasn’t entirely for me.
Ratings
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.5/5
First of all, I do want to make it very clear that this book is extremely well written. The plot is well constructed, the formatting reads smoothly, and I absolutely loved the shorter memory chapters woven throughout the story. They added a lot emotionally and helped deepen the characters and atmosphere. I was also weirdly excited about the chapter titles. That’s something authors rarely do in a memorable way anymore, so it really stood out to me here.
The story follows Jenna, who dreams of building a career as a pianist, but due to certain circumstances (no spoilers), that future slips away from her. Eventually Ian, the father, and Killian, the son, convince her to move in with them so they can compete together in a musical competition.
Now, while this book ultimately wasn’t my thing personally, and these definitely are not my kinks, I am a very big believer in “don’t yuck someone else’s yum.” And honestly? I can absolutely see why this would completely work for other readers. I’m genuinely glad I got the chance to read it, because it helped me realize this particular dynamic just isn’t for me.
That being said, the book is undeniably immersive and incredibly well written. Even though I personally didn’t connect with the themes or dynamics, I still had absolutely no problem finishing it. The writing itself carried me through the story very easily. For me that means that eventhough it wasn't for me, the book itself definitely deserves 4 stars!
So if degradation, humiliation, or dad & son dynamics are your thing, this book will probably be right up your alley.
And well… it turns out this one wasn’t entirely for me.
Ratings
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐✨ 3.5/5
First of all, I do want to make it very clear that this book is extremely well written. The plot is well constructed, the formatting reads smoothly, and I absolutely loved the shorter memory chapters woven throughout the story. They added a lot emotionally and helped deepen the characters and atmosphere. I was also weirdly excited about the chapter titles. That’s something authors rarely do in a memorable way anymore, so it really stood out to me here.
The story follows Jenna, who dreams of building a career as a pianist, but due to certain circumstances (no spoilers), that future slips away from her. Eventually Ian, the father, and Killian, the son, convince her to move in with them so they can compete together in a musical competition.
Now, while this book ultimately wasn’t my thing personally, and these definitely are not my kinks, I am a very big believer in “don’t yuck someone else’s yum.” And honestly? I can absolutely see why this would completely work for other readers. I’m genuinely glad I got the chance to read it, because it helped me realize this particular dynamic just isn’t for me.
That being said, the book is undeniably immersive and incredibly well written. Even though I personally didn’t connect with the themes or dynamics, I still had absolutely no problem finishing it. The writing itself carried me through the story very easily. For me that means that eventhough it wasn't for me, the book itself definitely deserves 4 stars!
So if degradation, humiliation, or dad & son dynamics are your thing, this book will probably be right up your alley.
May 18, 2026
“Possessive Cavemen”
Jenna is pianist and she wins a competition over a the boy she likes and he is pissed. So what does Killian do, I can’t tell you but just know it’s not good. Fast forward five years we meet up with the two again and Killian needs Jenna’s help. Now Killian decides he wants Jenna and dear ole dad Ian is here to help. I’m quickly realizing Killian is a man child and his dad just feeds into. There is a lot of back and repeating the same thing over and over. But I understand when it comes to BDSM there has to be a lot of trust amongst the people involved. So the back and forth and testing boundaries is to build trust. Jenna is wanted by both of these men( one more open about it than the other). Ian and Jenna’s bond is more stable that the one she has with Killian and that’s to understood due to history. These men are putting Jenna through it and she is scared to fully give in. These men toyed with Jenna in the book and Ella toyed with us. This was an emotional book. Each of them were broken and needed healing. They each got that from each other. I was happy when Ian finally put his foot down with Killian and told him to man up. I’m also happy Jenna was able to find confidence in herself and tell them what she wanted. The pacing of this book was got me. It started and stayed slow for over half the book. I understand it was building something but I was just like when are we hitting the gas to go. We did get there and there were a few chapters in here that had me like I cannot believe that just happened. I loved the evolution of the nickname, Killian started with and ended with for Jenna. They all got their happy and that all that matters.
Jenna is pianist and she wins a competition over a the boy she likes and he is pissed. So what does Killian do, I can’t tell you but just know it’s not good. Fast forward five years we meet up with the two again and Killian needs Jenna’s help. Now Killian decides he wants Jenna and dear ole dad Ian is here to help. I’m quickly realizing Killian is a man child and his dad just feeds into. There is a lot of back and repeating the same thing over and over. But I understand when it comes to BDSM there has to be a lot of trust amongst the people involved. So the back and forth and testing boundaries is to build trust. Jenna is wanted by both of these men( one more open about it than the other). Ian and Jenna’s bond is more stable that the one she has with Killian and that’s to understood due to history. These men are putting Jenna through it and she is scared to fully give in. These men toyed with Jenna in the book and Ella toyed with us. This was an emotional book. Each of them were broken and needed healing. They each got that from each other. I was happy when Ian finally put his foot down with Killian and told him to man up. I’m also happy Jenna was able to find confidence in herself and tell them what she wanted. The pacing of this book was got me. It started and stayed slow for over half the book. I understand it was building something but I was just like when are we hitting the gas to go. We did get there and there were a few chapters in here that had me like I cannot believe that just happened. I loved the evolution of the nickname, Killian started with and ended with for Jenna. They all got their happy and that all that matters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Anyone who has read my reviews already knows how much I love Ella Jacobs' work. And in this latest book, she demonstrates why yet again. This book is simply brilliant.
Broken in Their Hands is an MfM D/s book about an innocent girl, her bully, and his father. It begins with the destruction all her happiness, love, and dreams at the hands of her crush who has become her bully.
Five years later, her bully seeks her out, witnessing the destruction the wounds inflicted on her life five year ago has wrought. And he comes with a proposal that could take her to heaven and the dreams she's given up or straight to hell.
As her absolute submission to both the bully and his father grows, so does a new dynamic between the three of them. And when the bully losses his temper she is left desolate and broken. Both men now have to heal both her lost faith from five years before, their own brokenness, and her devastation currently in order to give her a chance at life and love.
This book takes the reader through a storm of emotions ... pain, loss, angst, lust, shame, guilt, love, and restoration. The characters of this book became so real in my head, that I feel the loss of them now that I've finished their story. But the growth and power of healing Ella wrote into this book makes the journey worth every moment.
This book delves deeply into BDSM and D/s dynamics, so check your triggers before reading. But know that as you come out the other side of this book, you will be grateful you dove in.
I highly recommend this book and author. She is phenomenal.
Broken in Their Hands is an MfM D/s book about an innocent girl, her bully, and his father. It begins with the destruction all her happiness, love, and dreams at the hands of her crush who has become her bully.
Five years later, her bully seeks her out, witnessing the destruction the wounds inflicted on her life five year ago has wrought. And he comes with a proposal that could take her to heaven and the dreams she's given up or straight to hell.
As her absolute submission to both the bully and his father grows, so does a new dynamic between the three of them. And when the bully losses his temper she is left desolate and broken. Both men now have to heal both her lost faith from five years before, their own brokenness, and her devastation currently in order to give her a chance at life and love.
This book takes the reader through a storm of emotions ... pain, loss, angst, lust, shame, guilt, love, and restoration. The characters of this book became so real in my head, that I feel the loss of them now that I've finished their story. But the growth and power of healing Ella wrote into this book makes the journey worth every moment.
This book delves deeply into BDSM and D/s dynamics, so check your triggers before reading. But know that as you come out the other side of this book, you will be grateful you dove in.
I highly recommend this book and author. She is phenomenal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤 my review for Broken In Their Hands 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
The emotions and feelings Ella pours into this book (and honestly all of her books) are just absolutely phenomenal and it blows my mind every time how incredible she is as an author!!
I am in awe everytime I sit down and read one of her books and this particular book is a wonderful taboo masterpiece!!!
It goes without saying really but the writing is beyond excellent and the chemistry between the characters are on another level in this book! And how it builds throughout the entire book is highly additive. You truly get to feel what the characters are feeling. Every emotion and feeling from being heartbroken and numb to feel a slither of hope and happiness and every feeling there is in between.
You definitely have to love the taboo trope if you're planning on reading this book because father and son are sharing the same girl. And while they're sharing this girl they are bonding as father and son.
If you like the taboo trope, why choose, manipulation, dub con, lots of different 🌶 scenes, some unhinged father and son bonding, blackmailing and more delicious TWs then you are going to DEVOUR this book!!
This is a beautiful, unhinged taboo story from start to finish between Jenna, Ian (father) and Killian (son) and I loved the characters and the entire book with my whole heart!
THANK YOU once again Ella for the honor of being on your ARC team!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
The emotions and feelings Ella pours into this book (and honestly all of her books) are just absolutely phenomenal and it blows my mind every time how incredible she is as an author!!
I am in awe everytime I sit down and read one of her books and this particular book is a wonderful taboo masterpiece!!!
It goes without saying really but the writing is beyond excellent and the chemistry between the characters are on another level in this book! And how it builds throughout the entire book is highly additive. You truly get to feel what the characters are feeling. Every emotion and feeling from being heartbroken and numb to feel a slither of hope and happiness and every feeling there is in between.
You definitely have to love the taboo trope if you're planning on reading this book because father and son are sharing the same girl. And while they're sharing this girl they are bonding as father and son.
If you like the taboo trope, why choose, manipulation, dub con, lots of different 🌶 scenes, some unhinged father and son bonding, blackmailing and more delicious TWs then you are going to DEVOUR this book!!
This is a beautiful, unhinged taboo story from start to finish between Jenna, Ian (father) and Killian (son) and I loved the characters and the entire book with my whole heart!
THANK YOU once again Ella for the honor of being on your ARC team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So this story is not for everybody. It is high on the kink, a very specific kink. There is also some dubious consent involved. At first, I wasn't really getting into it. I'm all for dark and depraved, but what bothered me, was how the guys manipulated the girl (particularly when she was just a teen,) to get what they wanted (and sabotaging her life.) Especially since one of the guys was an adult. (Even if he had the same dark desires, I felt his attitude about the whole thing was off putting.) If they were both adults at the time, I may have felt differently about what happened (earlier in the book.) I did eventually get into it more. The writing itself was well done. The characters each had a way about them. Each had some demons they were fighting. Obviously there is sexual content, but a majority of it, are the things they do to her, and her body. (The good, the bad and the ugly.) The main kink is humiliation. There is also BDMS, a Dom/Sub relationship (and what that entails.) There is the age gap and the taboo/forbidden. He and his dad with her, though in most of the 'scenes,' they are working individually with her and not all three together. Aside from the sexual part of the story, there is also some healing and growing. Self awareness. Self acceptance. There is mention of alcohol addiction and abuse (none on the pages.)
I think it goes without saying, this is intended for mature readers. It alternates POVs.
I think it goes without saying, this is intended for mature readers. It alternates POVs.
May 22, 2026
4/5 Stars
Quick Summary: Why choose, but make it with Pianos and a father son duo.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK
This book was intense and it wasn't until 50% of the book that I realized how invested and deep I was with this book. I would say I'm surprised, but Ella know how to pull your emotions to get immersed in her books and this was no different.
This book deals with very morally grey characters and even though they make questionable decisions in the book, you can't help be hope that things get better and root for this relationship. Some of this book was very hard to read, but that's the point. To make you feel what Jenna is feeling this whole book and how lost she is. It isn't until she starts to find herself that it starts to get lighter (kind of). This book may have spoiled me and I was being greedy, I feel like the ending wrapped up so soon and I was hoping that there would be a tad more to get one more scene.
overall, Ella did what she does best and I was INVESTED and found myself holding my breath any time I sat down to read it. While this is a father-son duo- there is not direct incest going on! But if you are a fan of morally grey characters, humiliation kink, dominating scenes and more (look it up, I'm not putting it on Goodreads lol), don't hesitate to read it, but once again SEE THE TRIGGERS BEFORE!
Thank you to Ella Jacobs and her team for sending an eARC my way. I will forever be grateful to be on your ARC team!
Quick Summary: Why choose, but make it with Pianos and a father son duo.
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK
This book was intense and it wasn't until 50% of the book that I realized how invested and deep I was with this book. I would say I'm surprised, but Ella know how to pull your emotions to get immersed in her books and this was no different.
This book deals with very morally grey characters and even though they make questionable decisions in the book, you can't help be hope that things get better and root for this relationship. Some of this book was very hard to read, but that's the point. To make you feel what Jenna is feeling this whole book and how lost she is. It isn't until she starts to find herself that it starts to get lighter (kind of). This book may have spoiled me and I was being greedy, I feel like the ending wrapped up so soon and I was hoping that there would be a tad more to get one more scene.
overall, Ella did what she does best and I was INVESTED and found myself holding my breath any time I sat down to read it. While this is a father-son duo- there is not direct incest going on! But if you are a fan of morally grey characters, humiliation kink, dominating scenes and more (look it up, I'm not putting it on Goodreads lol), don't hesitate to read it, but once again SEE THE TRIGGERS BEFORE!
Thank you to Ella Jacobs and her team for sending an eARC my way. I will forever be grateful to be on your ARC team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review: Broken in Their Hands
This was a really intense read, and definitely not one I’d recommend going into blindly. The writing itself is genuinely strong—very immersive, emotionally charged, and easy to get pulled into. The author does a great job building tension and making you feel everything the characters go through.
That said, this book leans *hard* into darker themes and heavy BDSM elements, including pet play and degradation. If that’s not something you typically read (it isn’t for me), it can be a lot to process, and at times I had to push myself to keep going. Readers should absolutely check content warnings beforehand—especially because the first chapter includes on-page underage activity, which may be triggering for some.
What kept me invested was the character development. The FMC, in particular, goes through significant growth, and one of the MMCs also has a meaningful arc that adds depth to the story. Their journeys aren’t easy, but they feel intentional and impactful.
Despite the darkness, there *is* a HEA, which helped balance out some of the heavier elements and made the emotional payoff feel worth it.
Overall, this is a well-written but very niche read. If you’re comfortable with darker romance and intense dynamics, you may find it compelling—but it’s definitely not for everyone.
This was a really intense read, and definitely not one I’d recommend going into blindly. The writing itself is genuinely strong—very immersive, emotionally charged, and easy to get pulled into. The author does a great job building tension and making you feel everything the characters go through.
That said, this book leans *hard* into darker themes and heavy BDSM elements, including pet play and degradation. If that’s not something you typically read (it isn’t for me), it can be a lot to process, and at times I had to push myself to keep going. Readers should absolutely check content warnings beforehand—especially because the first chapter includes on-page underage activity, which may be triggering for some.
What kept me invested was the character development. The FMC, in particular, goes through significant growth, and one of the MMCs also has a meaningful arc that adds depth to the story. Their journeys aren’t easy, but they feel intentional and impactful.
Despite the darkness, there *is* a HEA, which helped balance out some of the heavier elements and made the emotional payoff feel worth it.
Overall, this is a well-written but very niche read. If you’re comfortable with darker romance and intense dynamics, you may find it compelling—but it’s definitely not for everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Hot at its core, and on to a degradation road we go...
I like the way the story made you understand the backgrounds of Killian and Jenna's relationship from the beginning and how their relationship went all love-hate-trauma bonding-love.
Killian being the complex character with feelings he couldn't managed in any other way than cruelly humiliating poor little innocent Jenna, in way that went escalating quick and hurtful until he faced the consequences of his recklenssness.
Even so, by the time of that breaking point I just felt the urge to hug him so bad.
Ian on the other hand? First, I had my doubts about him. Having him as the manipulative puppet master in the whole mess at the beginning was a "this b*tch" moment for me. But! turns out that he was the softie, caring man that guide (in a very unhealthy way though) Jenna into the BDSM world, so he kind of redeem himself with me...
Now, Jenna. I have to admit that the -1 star is because of her. I know, I know. She had to go through all this humiliation/degradation ride in order to embrase her submisive self, but there where times (several tbh) that I just couldn't stand the girl.
At the end, it all turned out into a happily ever after, and I enjoyed how it went.
I like the way the story made you understand the backgrounds of Killian and Jenna's relationship from the beginning and how their relationship went all love-hate-trauma bonding-love.
Killian being the complex character with feelings he couldn't managed in any other way than cruelly humiliating poor little innocent Jenna, in way that went escalating quick and hurtful until he faced the consequences of his recklenssness.
Even so, by the time of that breaking point I just felt the urge to hug him so bad.
Ian on the other hand? First, I had my doubts about him. Having him as the manipulative puppet master in the whole mess at the beginning was a "this b*tch" moment for me. But! turns out that he was the softie, caring man that guide (in a very unhealthy way though) Jenna into the BDSM world, so he kind of redeem himself with me...
Now, Jenna. I have to admit that the -1 star is because of her. I know, I know. She had to go through all this humiliation/degradation ride in order to embrase her submisive self, but there where times (several tbh) that I just couldn't stand the girl.
At the end, it all turned out into a happily ever after, and I enjoyed how it went.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Broken in Their Hands 🎹🖤
by Ella Jacobs
4.5🌟
4🌶️
I don’t know what witchcraft Ella uses to but her in books…
but they always leave me in a trance and horny AF 😅lol 😂
Author Ella Jacobs is a master when it comes to BDSM stories that will captivate and shock you in every way! Check your triggers!
FMC Jenna ( poor Jenna) is pulled into the taboo “Lion’s Den“ of Father and Son “Ian & Killian “
Ian & Killian are the “tag team “ of mental , emotional and physical play .
They take advantage of Jenna ‘s weaknesses , humiliate and degrade her any chance they get!
Killian ( the son) is just a bully with a past that brings out the worst in him.
Ian (the father) is just complex in every way and is more patient with Jenna and starts to fall for her( even if it’s forbidden)
They break her down and build her up and it does end on a twisted but satisfying HEA. 🖤
The story is basically about exploration, love ,obsession and healing from personal trauma in unconventional ways.
I truly enjoyed this story and certain scenes ( the piano bench) will forever love rent free in my messed up mind!
I would highly recommend this captivating story! 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you author Ella Jacobs for the arc !
by Ella Jacobs
4.5🌟
4🌶️
I don’t know what witchcraft Ella uses to but her in books…
but they always leave me in a trance and horny AF 😅lol 😂
Author Ella Jacobs is a master when it comes to BDSM stories that will captivate and shock you in every way! Check your triggers!
FMC Jenna ( poor Jenna) is pulled into the taboo “Lion’s Den“ of Father and Son “Ian & Killian “
Ian & Killian are the “tag team “ of mental , emotional and physical play .
They take advantage of Jenna ‘s weaknesses , humiliate and degrade her any chance they get!
Killian ( the son) is just a bully with a past that brings out the worst in him.
Ian (the father) is just complex in every way and is more patient with Jenna and starts to fall for her( even if it’s forbidden)
They break her down and build her up and it does end on a twisted but satisfying HEA. 🖤
The story is basically about exploration, love ,obsession and healing from personal trauma in unconventional ways.
I truly enjoyed this story and certain scenes ( the piano bench) will forever love rent free in my messed up mind!
I would highly recommend this captivating story! 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you author Ella Jacobs for the arc !
Review of advance copy received from Author
What do you do when one of your favorite writers gives you their latest book? You drop everything to devour it! Did I do anything else? No! Do I regret it? Absolutely not—except for the fact that I’ve already finished it!
This story really made me think about the inspirations behind Ella’s work. Having read her blog about her own journey into BDSM and polyamory, I felt like I got to 'see' those steps reflected here. Even though I know it’s a different story, it beautifully matched the lifestyle I envisioned from her writing.
But back to the plot: we meet Jenna, a woman whose life was derailed years ago by a devastating night involving her musical rival, Killian Ashcroft. Years later, living as a shadow of her former self, Killian reappears with an offer she can’t refuse: a chance to reclaim her music, provided she enters the orbit of the powerful and enigmatic Ashcroft family once again.
The story explores the thin, often blurred line between obsession and devotion. It was a lovely, intense journey of discovery for me. Loved, loved kitten and her men! I do have a favorite, but you have to kill in order to get that answer!
This story really made me think about the inspirations behind Ella’s work. Having read her blog about her own journey into BDSM and polyamory, I felt like I got to 'see' those steps reflected here. Even though I know it’s a different story, it beautifully matched the lifestyle I envisioned from her writing.
But back to the plot: we meet Jenna, a woman whose life was derailed years ago by a devastating night involving her musical rival, Killian Ashcroft. Years later, living as a shadow of her former self, Killian reappears with an offer she can’t refuse: a chance to reclaim her music, provided she enters the orbit of the powerful and enigmatic Ashcroft family once again.
The story explores the thin, often blurred line between obsession and devotion. It was a lovely, intense journey of discovery for me. Loved, loved kitten and her men! I do have a favorite, but you have to kill in order to get that answer!
Review of advance copy
For me it’s not as dark as Ella’s other books but it’s raw in its potency; yes, there is depravity, emotions running high throughout, parts where the intensity can overrule your heart though also a serenity that keeps you turning the pages.
It is an intense storyline, giving us snippets of their past that leads to questions which in turn are answered. The relationship building within a D/s situation but it’s more than that, it’s a need for each of them to find their own path and accept their future together within their own dynamic.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙜𝙪𝙩.
Within you will be privy to dominance from two men, submission in its purest form, degradation and humiliation, pet play, all forms of 🐝DSM, use of implements and more. Plus piano playing with a twist or two 🤭Once again with Ella’s writing and powerful narrative, it will be another one that will play over in my head and the book will adorn my bookshelf as soon as I get my hands on it 🫶🏻
It is an intense storyline, giving us snippets of their past that leads to questions which in turn are answered. The relationship building within a D/s situation but it’s more than that, it’s a need for each of them to find their own path and accept their future together within their own dynamic.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙜𝙪𝙩.
Within you will be privy to dominance from two men, submission in its purest form, degradation and humiliation, pet play, all forms of 🐝DSM, use of implements and more. Plus piano playing with a twist or two 🤭Once again with Ella’s writing and powerful narrative, it will be another one that will play over in my head and the book will adorn my bookshelf as soon as I get my hands on it 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
With every Ella Jacobs book I read, by the end I swear I am CONVINCED it's my favorite... but this time, I really think it might be true.
Broken in Their Hands is an utter masterpiece. It seamlessly weaves together a story of three broken people trying to find a way to heal together. It's a story about love, loss, and finding your way.
Each and every character in this book broke my heart in a different way. The MMC's are so hard on the outside, but learning how each of them ticked was incredibly difficult and yet so rewarding in the end. And Jenna, our dear, dear FMC - she was an absolute joy to read. I loved her heart from the very start, and watching her grow into the character she becomes was one of my favorite parts of the story. It's an emotional read, full of dark desires and angst, but there were lighthearted moments that were some of my absolute favorites.
I laughed, I cried (a lot, tbh), and by the end I felt more complete than when I started. Oh and for the record, the spice was spicing HARD, and I loved every second of that too ;)
Broken in Their Hands is an utter masterpiece. It seamlessly weaves together a story of three broken people trying to find a way to heal together. It's a story about love, loss, and finding your way.
Each and every character in this book broke my heart in a different way. The MMC's are so hard on the outside, but learning how each of them ticked was incredibly difficult and yet so rewarding in the end. And Jenna, our dear, dear FMC - she was an absolute joy to read. I loved her heart from the very start, and watching her grow into the character she becomes was one of my favorite parts of the story. It's an emotional read, full of dark desires and angst, but there were lighthearted moments that were some of my absolute favorites.
I laughed, I cried (a lot, tbh), and by the end I felt more complete than when I started. Oh and for the record, the spice was spicing HARD, and I loved every second of that too ;)
Review of advance copy
ARC review
This book is captivating and a must-read!
The smut is amazing and comes page after page, meaning many of you might miss the underlying plot.
However, the girlies who carry trauma tropes—like hyper-independence, abandonment issues and have an anxious attachment style, or experience emotional and physical neglect as a child—will definitely see the deeper plot line page after page.
The “own creation” piano scene with Jenna and Killian is going to live rent-free in my head for the rest of my days; I'm not going to spoil anything, though!
And to all my fellow trauma girls, I wish us all an Ian! Someone who has the patience to break through our walls, create a safe space, and take care of us. Someone who isn't afraid of big emotions or tears, and who reads us like an open book.
Enjoy this book—you are going to love it!
This book is captivating and a must-read!
The smut is amazing and comes page after page, meaning many of you might miss the underlying plot.
However, the girlies who carry trauma tropes—like hyper-independence, abandonment issues and have an anxious attachment style, or experience emotional and physical neglect as a child—will definitely see the deeper plot line page after page.
The “own creation” piano scene with Jenna and Killian is going to live rent-free in my head for the rest of my days; I'm not going to spoil anything, though!
And to all my fellow trauma girls, I wish us all an Ian! Someone who has the patience to break through our walls, create a safe space, and take care of us. Someone who isn't afraid of big emotions or tears, and who reads us like an open book.
Enjoy this book—you are going to love it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review:
⭐ Overall Rating: 4 ⭐️
🔥 Spice Level: 5🌶️
😎 Vibes: 4🖤 Pitch Black
Dark romance, enemies to lovers, taboo, age gap, why choose, BDSM, morally dark men, dub con
- This book is pitch black. Not for the faint of heart. Check your trigger warnings.
- Could not put it down. The energy stayed high throughout the entire book.
- Character development was well written, flash back chapters were heart wrenching.
- You want to hate Killian but you can’t.
🖤 Characters:
- FMC: Meek yet hopeful. Submissive
- MMC1: Cold and deeply hurt but redeemable (kinda)
- MMC2: Warmer but still deeply depraved
🌶️ Spice Review:
High spice, BDSM. Great variety, not your standard romance book scenes.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely but only to my darkest romance girlies. This was my first Ella Jacobs book and it most certainly will not be my last. 🤓
⭐ Overall Rating: 4 ⭐️
🔥 Spice Level: 5🌶️
😎 Vibes: 4🖤 Pitch Black
Dark romance, enemies to lovers, taboo, age gap, why choose, BDSM, morally dark men, dub con
- This book is pitch black. Not for the faint of heart. Check your trigger warnings.
- Could not put it down. The energy stayed high throughout the entire book.
- Character development was well written, flash back chapters were heart wrenching.
- You want to hate Killian but you can’t.
🖤 Characters:
- FMC: Meek yet hopeful. Submissive
- MMC1: Cold and deeply hurt but redeemable (kinda)
- MMC2: Warmer but still deeply depraved
🌶️ Spice Review:
High spice, BDSM. Great variety, not your standard romance book scenes.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely but only to my darkest romance girlies. This was my first Ella Jacobs book and it most certainly will not be my last. 🤓
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm absolutely obsessed with anything Ella writes. This is easily in my top 5 reads for the year. I was sucked in from chapter one, so much emotion and tension. This definitely has heavy triggers and should be checked. Of course, I went in blind as I hate spoilers, but obviously, if you need them, check them as they lean towards the darker side. This has excellent plot progression, with plenty of spice. The spice is the plot, in many places, but is also not overdone and builds up the relationship and healing journey between all the characters. I can not rank this high enough and dislike being limited to 5 stars! Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy
This is a taboo story that dives in to some heavy BDSM. Read trigger warnings.
Jenna was a individual who tries to be outgoing even when others push her down. She has abandonment issues, betrayal from a friend, and it seems like every adult also failed her. It was difficult to read about her taking everything thrown at her on occasion.
Killian is a pianist who has abandonment issues and refuses to let anyone close. He is brutal to say the least.
Ian is the father of Killian and also I would say while he does put his son first... I found it difficult to understand a grown man giving some of the ill advice to a young 16 year old son.
Taboo as it was the trio do balance eachother.
Jenna was a individual who tries to be outgoing even when others push her down. She has abandonment issues, betrayal from a friend, and it seems like every adult also failed her. It was difficult to read about her taking everything thrown at her on occasion.
Killian is a pianist who has abandonment issues and refuses to let anyone close. He is brutal to say the least.
Ian is the father of Killian and also I would say while he does put his son first... I found it difficult to understand a grown man giving some of the ill advice to a young 16 year old son.
Taboo as it was the trio do balance eachother.
Review of advance copy
Wow that's all I can say about this book! The intense storyline started from the very first chapter and it didn't stop until the last word.
This book is about Jenna and Killian who went to school together and competed against each other at piano competitions. However one night, everything changes and the power shifts to Killian and his dad Ian over Jenna.
At times this was a hard read as the emotions were coming through in every word but I found myself starting to like Killian. Heartache from the three characters came through so strong in the storyline. Please check the trigger warnings before you read this book. A must read for all Ella Jacobs fans!
This book is about Jenna and Killian who went to school together and competed against each other at piano competitions. However one night, everything changes and the power shifts to Killian and his dad Ian over Jenna.
At times this was a hard read as the emotions were coming through in every word but I found myself starting to like Killian. Heartache from the three characters came through so strong in the storyline. Please check the trigger warnings before you read this book. A must read for all Ella Jacobs fans!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Broken by their hands is more than just a title—it’s an emotional journey that offers so much more. I’m still processing how I feel because everything in this story resonated deeply with me. Even two days later, it's still on my mind, and the healing ❤️🩹. It was incredibly powerful. That’s what Ella brings to this book! Please read the warning ⚠️ this isn’t an easy journey, but it’s almost impossible to put down, especially with these two powerful men obsessed. wholeheartedly recommend it 💯%. Jenna, Ian, and Killian are everything
Review of advance copy received from Author
As kids, Killian and Jenna were inseparable. But when Jenna wins a competition, Killian punishes her in his own way that turns everything upside down for years to come.
Years later, Killian needs Jenna to ensure they win. With dad along his side, Jenna is brought into the. BDSM world where she experiences the true meaning of being claimed and owned.
If you're not into this kind of dynamic, the book might not be for you. So please read with that thought in mind. I think Ella delivered an incredible and accurate story!
Years later, Killian needs Jenna to ensure they win. With dad along his side, Jenna is brought into the. BDSM world where she experiences the true meaning of being claimed and owned.
If you're not into this kind of dynamic, the book might not be for you. So please read with that thought in mind. I think Ella delivered an incredible and accurate story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have 3 thoughts about this book, in varying degree of detail and interspection.
1: phallus
2: Ella Jacobs remains the undisputed champion of dubious consensual power exchange dynamics but also theres a piano (and sometimes a bench!).
1a: phallus?
3: Theres a really interesting discreet play of communication (and LACK THEREOF) through trauma in this book. These characters all live with deep seated trauma, handle it in some cases exceedingly poorly, and find their comfort in eachothers coping mechanisms. Its very clever.
2a(c1): PHALLUS
1: phallus
2: Ella Jacobs remains the undisputed champion of dubious consensual power exchange dynamics but also theres a piano (and sometimes a bench!).
1a: phallus?
3: Theres a really interesting discreet play of communication (and LACK THEREOF) through trauma in this book. These characters all live with deep seated trauma, handle it in some cases exceedingly poorly, and find their comfort in eachothers coping mechanisms. Its very clever.
2a(c1): PHALLUS
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