What do you think?
Rate this book
Broken in Their Hands
My 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
Published May 25, 2026
About the author
Ella Jacobs
14 books539 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whew, where to start! I had a hard time writing this review - I had so much to process (I had to put the book down a few times lol) with so many conflicting emotions. I do want to say that I enjoyed reading the story, and do recommend it! I love Ella's books even though they often push my comfort levels - her writing is addictive!
It starts with a competition. Killian and Jenna are both very talented pianists, and for the first time Jenna wins first place, leaving Killian with second. He wouldn't stand for it, so he took matters into his own hands, destroying her dream by making sure she'd never win again (I seriously wanted to unalive him myself lol) 😡🥺. But she's able to pick herself up (👏) and rebuild her life. Just as she finds her footing, Killian appears out of nowhere and offers her a chance to play again - but it has a string attached. Having such a passion for piano and truly missing it, she accepts the deal with the Devil.
Jenna was innocent, very submissive, and naive; I wanted to go in and defend her. Killian used to be her best friend as they grew up, but something happened when they were still young, and he became her bully; she never knew why 🥺. She kept memories of better times with her, hoping that version of him would surface again. I really felt for her. 😭.
I hated Killian so much and so badly wanted her to push him away. He was so horrible to her; he was cold, cruel, and demeaning, which left her feeling small and worthless 😢. It took me a very long time to warm up to Killian under all that hurt and grief. And I'm just going to leave this here... there was a scene that had me fuming, spiralling, and shocked, but then melted my heart 🥹, you'll know when you get to it 😉!
Ian, Killian's father (yes, it's a taboo book, and no, no swords are crossing!!), made an arrangement where he and Killian would both get to be with Jenna. When it came to Jenna, they didn't leave her much choice but to accept. Ian planned to get her to trust him and then eventually Killian. It took a while before I started to feel some connection with her and Ian because of their actions towards her, but over time, he became an anchor for her and truly cared.
The book is very heavy on the wild, spicy scenes! Since the MMCs were so cruel to Jenna in the beginning, and I was really angry with them (I think we're supposed to be), I really wanted her to push them away. But she didn't, as her body betrayed her - often! It did make some of the steamy times feel a little awkward and def pushed my boundaries. But that eventually changed as the characters grew and developed!!
I enjoyed getting little pieces of their past, which helped me understand why Killian changed so drastically, which gave me a short glimpse of the innocent child he once was. In the last quarter of the book, I warmed up to them (even though I still wish she pushed Killian away a little longer), and could feel the relationships strengthening.
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 6 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Killian, Ian & Jenna
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MFM, Why Choose, Multiple 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone Novel
Title: Broken in Their Hands
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT: Dominant, Cruel, Manipulative MMCs
*Taboo - Father and Son share the same girl
*Coercion
*BDSM (ish - parts have a lack of after-care & no safe word)
*Degradation/Humiliation
*Non & Dub Con
*Blackmail
*Pianists
*No ⚔️
*No cheating or sharing outside the relationship
🛑⚠️ This book has dark themes; there are intense and descriptive scenes which may be extremely offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+ ⚠️🛑
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.
It starts with a competition. Killian and Jenna are both very talented pianists, and for the first time Jenna wins first place, leaving Killian with second. He wouldn't stand for it, so he took matters into his own hands, destroying her dream by making sure she'd never win again (I seriously wanted to unalive him myself lol) 😡🥺. But she's able to pick herself up (👏) and rebuild her life. Just as she finds her footing, Killian appears out of nowhere and offers her a chance to play again - but it has a string attached. Having such a passion for piano and truly missing it, she accepts the deal with the Devil.
Jenna was innocent, very submissive, and naive; I wanted to go in and defend her. Killian used to be her best friend as they grew up, but something happened when they were still young, and he became her bully; she never knew why 🥺. She kept memories of better times with her, hoping that version of him would surface again. I really felt for her. 😭.
I hated Killian so much and so badly wanted her to push him away. He was so horrible to her; he was cold, cruel, and demeaning, which left her feeling small and worthless 😢. It took me a very long time to warm up to Killian under all that hurt and grief. And I'm just going to leave this here... there was a scene that had me fuming, spiralling, and shocked, but then melted my heart 🥹, you'll know when you get to it 😉!
Ian, Killian's father (yes, it's a taboo book, and no, no swords are crossing!!), made an arrangement where he and Killian would both get to be with Jenna. When it came to Jenna, they didn't leave her much choice but to accept. Ian planned to get her to trust him and then eventually Killian. It took a while before I started to feel some connection with her and Ian because of their actions towards her, but over time, he became an anchor for her and truly cared.
The book is very heavy on the wild, spicy scenes! Since the MMCs were so cruel to Jenna in the beginning, and I was really angry with them (I think we're supposed to be), I really wanted her to push them away. But she didn't, as her body betrayed her - often! It did make some of the steamy times feel a little awkward and def pushed my boundaries. But that eventually changed as the characters grew and developed!!
I enjoyed getting little pieces of their past, which helped me understand why Killian changed so drastically, which gave me a short glimpse of the innocent child he once was. In the last quarter of the book, I warmed up to them (even though I still wish she pushed Killian away a little longer), and could feel the relationships strengthening.
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 6 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Killian, Ian & Jenna
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MFM, Why Choose, Multiple 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone Novel
Title: Broken in Their Hands
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT: Dominant, Cruel, Manipulative MMCs
*Taboo - Father and Son share the same girl
*Coercion
*BDSM (ish - parts have a lack of after-care & no safe word)
*Degradation/Humiliation
*Non & Dub Con
*Blackmail
*Pianists
*No ⚔️
*No cheating or sharing outside the relationship
🛑⚠️ This book has dark themes; there are intense and descriptive scenes which may be extremely offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+ ⚠️🛑
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.
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.
July 16, 2026
What the fuck was this???
This seems to me like someone wrote self insert BDSM fanfiction about fucking J.K. Simmons’ character from Whiplash (2014) (and also his son) but had to change it slightly to avoid the copyright.
There isn’t technically incest in this - but it sure feels like there is.
This seems to me like someone wrote self insert BDSM fanfiction about fucking J.K. Simmons’ character from Whiplash (2014) (and also his son) but had to change it slightly to avoid the copyright.
There isn’t technically incest in this - but it sure feels like there is.
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 29, 2026
Ella Jacobs is becoming a must-read author for me. She writes very dark MMCs that I can't help but fall in love with. Killian and his father Ian are depraved and twisted. What they do to Jenna at the beginning of the book is horrible. Years later, Killian needs a partner for a duet piano competition, and Jenna, the girl he destroyed, is his best choice. Jenna knows they could destroy her again, and yet she is willing to take that chance in the hopes of reclaiming her dreams to become a pianist.
Ian becomes her piano teacher, getting both her and Killain ready for the competition, but she has to submit to them both in return. Jenna discovers that she enjoys submission and all the things they do to her. Killian loves to break her, and while Ian is just as twisted as his son, he is also there to put her back together after a scene. But Ian's care might not be enough to get her through Killain's dark needs.
Killian is incapable of showing care to another person. He closed himself off from everyone years ago. He uses piano and kink to cope with his emotions that he tries to keep locked down. Jenna is a threat to him because she can make him feel things he doesn't want to feel. He is willing to punish her for it and hope his dad can fix her after.
Ian becomes caught in the middle. He begins to care for Jenna but still wants to do what is best for his son. To try and get Killian out of his shell. However, Jenna is the one who suffers for it.
Their taboo dynamic is complicated and depraved. Relationships build between Ian and Jenna and Killian and Jenna while Ian and Killian's father/son relationship also starts to heal. This is an emotional ride, and I love the amount of attention the author gives to each relationship and individual character.
Note: Read the TWs. You have to be ok with reading degradation for this one.
Ian becomes her piano teacher, getting both her and Killain ready for the competition, but she has to submit to them both in return. Jenna discovers that she enjoys submission and all the things they do to her. Killian loves to break her, and while Ian is just as twisted as his son, he is also there to put her back together after a scene. But Ian's care might not be enough to get her through Killain's dark needs.
Killian is incapable of showing care to another person. He closed himself off from everyone years ago. He uses piano and kink to cope with his emotions that he tries to keep locked down. Jenna is a threat to him because she can make him feel things he doesn't want to feel. He is willing to punish her for it and hope his dad can fix her after.
Ian becomes caught in the middle. He begins to care for Jenna but still wants to do what is best for his son. To try and get Killian out of his shell. However, Jenna is the one who suffers for it.
Their taboo dynamic is complicated and depraved. Relationships build between Ian and Jenna and Killian and Jenna while Ian and Killian's father/son relationship also starts to heal. This is an emotional ride, and I love the amount of attention the author gives to each relationship and individual character.
Note: Read the TWs. You have to be ok with reading degradation for this one.
May 30, 2026
Heavy dark romance that will keep you on your toes!!
Check your triggers and get ready for an emotional ride.
Enemies to lovers
Bully
Dub con
Manipulation
Why choose
Taboo
Angsty
Jenna and killian met in elementary and remained friends until killians home life changed and made him become bitter to Jenna. Jenna home life wasn’t great but she remained sweet and caring . She absolutely adored killian as her best friend despite him turning bitter and cold to her at the age of eight.. Both played the piano and are both very talented, killian also came out 1st place and Jenna 2nd. That is until Jenna made first place and killian and his father destroy Jenna.
Now 10yrs later killian needs Jenna to help him win a competition but killian and his dad want more….
Check your triggers and get ready for an emotional ride.
Enemies to lovers
Bully
Dub con
Manipulation
Why choose
Taboo
Angsty
Jenna and killian met in elementary and remained friends until killians home life changed and made him become bitter to Jenna. Jenna home life wasn’t great but she remained sweet and caring . She absolutely adored killian as her best friend despite him turning bitter and cold to her at the age of eight.. Both played the piano and are both very talented, killian also came out 1st place and Jenna 2nd. That is until Jenna made first place and killian and his father destroy Jenna.
Now 10yrs later killian needs Jenna to help him win a competition but killian and his dad want more….
June 1, 2026
Check the trigger warnings before reading, as this is a very dark and emotionally heavy story with themes of manipulation and BDSM. Despite that, I found it impossible to put down. Jenna is forced into a duet with her blackmailer and former friend, Killian, while being trained by his father, Ian. The forbidden romance, emotional tension, and dual timelines kept me hooked, especially the heartbreaking flashbacks. With shocking twists, strong character growth, and plenty of spice, this emotional and intense story completely consumed me.
June 2, 2026
I am obsessed!!! This book is dark, so check your triggers! I have had a few Ella Jacob’s books on my TBR, this was my first read of one of her books… I will be bumping up her others to the top!! The beginning sucks you in and doesn’t let you go. I did not want to put this book down. The relationships between the FMC and the 2 MMC’s is diabolical in all the good ways. Please I need more!!!
June 6, 2026
3.5. Review to come! Recommend for folks who like BDSM romance. Probably not if that’s not your thing, as a lot of the book is about this dynamic. I learned some new terms!
May 26, 2026
I just LOVED this story! The closeness that Jenna, Ian & Killian found in each other was truly phenomenal! Sometimes the journey to a happy ending isn't the easiest but once it's fought for, it's so worth it🖤
May 27, 2026
This was sooo good. I ate it up! This was addicting and oh so dark. I had a great time with this book and these characters!
June 23, 2026
This read like a cautionary tale for Doms about aftercare. Sitting around the camp fire holding a flashlight under their face and whispering TOP DROP.
This was not that deep. In fact, the overwhelming majority (80%) of the book....it's just Jenna being called an anal slut, crying hysterically and Ian being all like 'there there, but you like being an anal slut'
Literally that's the first 80%. With some blackmail and sermons about aftercare. It doesn't even seem that dark. Its just....degradation x anal kink.
And Killian just pulls a 180 at the last second...and she fucking forgives him so easily. Yeah....I'm sorry...after the piggy thing happened....Killian deserved to be hung, drawn and quartered. Also...I got insane insidious vibes from Ian. Almost worse than Killian. Don't get me started on their corny ass collar proposal at the end. Jenna should have burned their house to the ground.
Also: protruding phallus piano bench.....lmao
This was not that deep. In fact, the overwhelming majority (80%) of the book....it's just Jenna being called an anal slut, crying hysterically and Ian being all like 'there there, but you like being an anal slut'
Literally that's the first 80%. With some blackmail and sermons about aftercare. It doesn't even seem that dark. Its just....degradation x anal kink.
And Killian just pulls a 180 at the last second...and she fucking forgives him so easily. Yeah....I'm sorry...after the piggy thing happened....Killian deserved to be hung, drawn and quartered. Also...I got insane insidious vibes from Ian. Almost worse than Killian. Don't get me started on their corny ass collar proposal at the end. Jenna should have burned their house to the ground.
Also: protruding phallus piano bench.....lmao
June 2, 2026
Broken In Their Hands is a dark, emotionally intense ride that blends taboo romance with deeply layered character work—and while it didn’t fully land for me in every aspect, it’s undeniably compelling.
What stood out the most was the complexity of the characters. Ian, Killian, and Jenna are all deeply flawed, broken in their own ways, and watching their stories intertwine was both gripping and, at times, difficult. The rotating POVs were a huge strength—they gave meaningful insight into each character’s motivations and allowed the emotional weight of the story to hit harder.
Ian and Killian’s dynamic was especially fascinating. Their father-son bond is unconventional, but there’s a fierce loyalty and respect there that added depth to the story. Ian, in particular, surprised me—he’s dominant and morally gray, but there are moments where his care and protectiveness toward Jenna feel almost tender. Killian, on the other hand, took me much longer to warm up to. He starts off frustrating and emotionally closed off, but his growth over the course of the book is significant and ultimately one of the strongest arcs in the story.
Jenna was the heart of the book for me. Her resilience in the face of trauma, her determination to carve out a better future, and her emotional vulnerability made her incredibly easy to root for. Watching her try to reclaim control of her life while navigating such a complicated situation added real emotional stakes.
The writing and pacing are strong overall, with a storyline that unfolds over time in a way that feels deliberate and immersive. The contrast between the polished, disciplined world of professional music and the messy, chaotic relationships was especially well done.
That said, this book won’t be for everyone. The dark and taboo elements are front and center, and at times I found certain dynamics uncomfortable, particularly around consent and boundaries. While I understand this is part of the genre, there were moments where it felt more unsettling than enticing, which did impact my overall enjoyment.
Still, there’s no denying the emotional intensity and addictive quality of the story. The relationships are messy, the tension is high, and the journey toward healing—both individually and together—is compelling. The final portion of the book, where character growth takes center stage, was especially satisfying.
Overall: a bold, provocative dark romance with strong character development, powerful emotional beats, and a story that will definitely stay with you—even if it pushes your comfort zone along the way.
What stood out the most was the complexity of the characters. Ian, Killian, and Jenna are all deeply flawed, broken in their own ways, and watching their stories intertwine was both gripping and, at times, difficult. The rotating POVs were a huge strength—they gave meaningful insight into each character’s motivations and allowed the emotional weight of the story to hit harder.
Ian and Killian’s dynamic was especially fascinating. Their father-son bond is unconventional, but there’s a fierce loyalty and respect there that added depth to the story. Ian, in particular, surprised me—he’s dominant and morally gray, but there are moments where his care and protectiveness toward Jenna feel almost tender. Killian, on the other hand, took me much longer to warm up to. He starts off frustrating and emotionally closed off, but his growth over the course of the book is significant and ultimately one of the strongest arcs in the story.
Jenna was the heart of the book for me. Her resilience in the face of trauma, her determination to carve out a better future, and her emotional vulnerability made her incredibly easy to root for. Watching her try to reclaim control of her life while navigating such a complicated situation added real emotional stakes.
The writing and pacing are strong overall, with a storyline that unfolds over time in a way that feels deliberate and immersive. The contrast between the polished, disciplined world of professional music and the messy, chaotic relationships was especially well done.
That said, this book won’t be for everyone. The dark and taboo elements are front and center, and at times I found certain dynamics uncomfortable, particularly around consent and boundaries. While I understand this is part of the genre, there were moments where it felt more unsettling than enticing, which did impact my overall enjoyment.
Still, there’s no denying the emotional intensity and addictive quality of the story. The relationships are messy, the tension is high, and the journey toward healing—both individually and together—is compelling. The final portion of the book, where character growth takes center stage, was especially satisfying.
Overall: a bold, provocative dark romance with strong character development, powerful emotional beats, and a story that will definitely stay with you—even if it pushes your comfort zone along the way.
June 2, 2026
Broken in Their Hands is written by Ella Jacobs. It is a standalone dark romance. I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I have read books by Ella Jacobs before this one, so I knew what to expect from her. I do recommend that you read the trigger warnings if you are concerned about how deep the characters go into the darkness. As always, the writing is good regardless of the depravity. This was truly a rollercoaster for me.
Ian and Killian are a father-son duo set on ruining Jenna's life. They actually find enjoyment in things like that. The problem is Jenna remembers the kid Killian used to be when they were growing up. She saw it all along. Ian just wanted his son to win no matter what the cost was. Ian would do anything for Killian. Neither one of them ever expected Jenna to crack them both wide open and flip life upside down. It was a very interesting dynamic to read.
Jenna is a strong and independent young woman who really had no choice but to be those things. Life was truly unkind to her. I loved her spunk and determination. I have to admit that sometimes I was really upset about the way she viewed or treated herself. It all feeds into the taboo depravity that the three characters crave. Ian is strong and dominant. He is definitely calming and a huge comfort to Jenna many times. He had the most control over his emotions and knew when to push and when to pull back. He was able to center Jenna and Killian if they were spiraling. Killian on the other hand made me feel the most. I could just feel the heartbreak and sadness even though he masked it with callousness. He had the most character growth throughout this book. Experiencing him change chapter by chapter was captivating.
To be honest, there were some pretty heavy scenes and topics. At times I was questioning if these men had any redeemable qualities at all. Well I am here to tell you that they are most definitely redeemable and worth all of the struggle in this plot. By the end of this story I was rooting for Ian, Killian, and Jenna all the way - personally, professionally, and as a trio. The journey was incredible for these three broken humans. Ella Jacobs just proved again that nothing is perfect and everything is a little broken. That is exactly how it is supposed to be.
Ian and Killian are a father-son duo set on ruining Jenna's life. They actually find enjoyment in things like that. The problem is Jenna remembers the kid Killian used to be when they were growing up. She saw it all along. Ian just wanted his son to win no matter what the cost was. Ian would do anything for Killian. Neither one of them ever expected Jenna to crack them both wide open and flip life upside down. It was a very interesting dynamic to read.
Jenna is a strong and independent young woman who really had no choice but to be those things. Life was truly unkind to her. I loved her spunk and determination. I have to admit that sometimes I was really upset about the way she viewed or treated herself. It all feeds into the taboo depravity that the three characters crave. Ian is strong and dominant. He is definitely calming and a huge comfort to Jenna many times. He had the most control over his emotions and knew when to push and when to pull back. He was able to center Jenna and Killian if they were spiraling. Killian on the other hand made me feel the most. I could just feel the heartbreak and sadness even though he masked it with callousness. He had the most character growth throughout this book. Experiencing him change chapter by chapter was captivating.
To be honest, there were some pretty heavy scenes and topics. At times I was questioning if these men had any redeemable qualities at all. Well I am here to tell you that they are most definitely redeemable and worth all of the struggle in this plot. By the end of this story I was rooting for Ian, Killian, and Jenna all the way - personally, professionally, and as a trio. The journey was incredible for these three broken humans. Ella Jacobs just proved again that nothing is perfect and everything is a little broken. That is exactly how it is supposed to be.
May 26, 2026
Going into this book I had a strong feeling that I would enjoy it, based on the fact that Ella Jacobs is quickly becoming a must read author for me. So of course when I heard about an upcoming release I just had to stop everything and read it. There only slight hesitation when I saw that it falls in the taboo realm (as I haven't really delved into that that much), but I did some introspection and decided to give it a shot. Boy, am I glad that I did!
This book had it all, the good, the dark, and most definitely the depraved. All this came together to artfully spin this emotional tale that I'll probably be thinking about for weeks to come. While you have to stick around through the dark and depraved to find the light at the end of the tunnel, the journey it takes to get there feels really well deserved, it feels like the characters have earned their HEA.
I actually ended up appreciating the unique dynamic between the trio. It didn't feel too weird to me as I was reading, and I think a big contributor to that was the fact that they are all very aware that what they are doing is outside social norms. There was no hiding behind false excuses, they did what they wanted and for them it just works.
The emotions that Jacobs manages to pull out through her stories and characters never ceases to leave me a weeping mess, and this one was no different. It was hard at times to root for Killian, that being said he is the one that had me crying the most. His struggles were engaging, and when I think about it really human, and watching him grow was one of the most beautiful character arcs I've read in quite a while.
The spice also hit its mark perfectly. It was hot and what I've come to expect from Jacobs writing. I think what made it even better though was the underlying theme of the importance of aftercare. It was really nice to see this in a story that on its surface probably just seems dark, but the aftercare shows all those swirling emotions that are present.
All in all, if you have even the slightest desire to pick this one up, (and you have checked the triggers), then I say go for it, and I hope you love it as much as I did!
This book had it all, the good, the dark, and most definitely the depraved. All this came together to artfully spin this emotional tale that I'll probably be thinking about for weeks to come. While you have to stick around through the dark and depraved to find the light at the end of the tunnel, the journey it takes to get there feels really well deserved, it feels like the characters have earned their HEA.
I actually ended up appreciating the unique dynamic between the trio. It didn't feel too weird to me as I was reading, and I think a big contributor to that was the fact that they are all very aware that what they are doing is outside social norms. There was no hiding behind false excuses, they did what they wanted and for them it just works.
The emotions that Jacobs manages to pull out through her stories and characters never ceases to leave me a weeping mess, and this one was no different. It was hard at times to root for Killian, that being said he is the one that had me crying the most. His struggles were engaging, and when I think about it really human, and watching him grow was one of the most beautiful character arcs I've read in quite a while.
The spice also hit its mark perfectly. It was hot and what I've come to expect from Jacobs writing. I think what made it even better though was the underlying theme of the importance of aftercare. It was really nice to see this in a story that on its surface probably just seems dark, but the aftercare shows all those swirling emotions that are present.
All in all, if you have even the slightest desire to pick this one up, (and you have checked the triggers), then I say go for it, and I hope you love it as much as I did!
May 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have to take a deep breath every time I jump into one of Ella's book cause OMFG!!! Oh yeah this is one of those books that leave you staring at the wall for a good hour.
Dark, emotional, and filled with deliciously complicated relationships, it was the perfect blend of angst, forbidden attraction, and heart-wrenching drama.
Jenna is a heroine who immediately earns your sympathy. Years ago, her future was destroyed by the very people who should have been in her corner, leaving her with broken dreams and scars that never truly healed. Just when she's finally starting to move forward, the past returns and forces her to confront everything she thought she'd left behind. Presented with an opportunity that could change her life, she's faced with an impossible choice—walk away from the one thing she's always wanted or risk everything by trusting the people who once shattered her world.
What made this book stand out was the depth of the characters and the emotional intensity woven throughout every chapter. Jenna's struggle felt real as she battled between protecting herself and chasing the future she's always longed for. Her strength, determination, and vulnerability made her impossible not to root for.
The two male leads bring their own unique brand of chaos to the story. Killian is burdened by the mistakes of his past, and every interaction with Jenna crackles with unresolved emotions, guilt, and longing. Ian, on the other hand, brings a completely different kind of temptation—one that's dangerous, complicated, and impossible to ignore. The emotional conflict surrounding these relationships added so much tension and made every scene feel meaningful.
The chemistry in this book is phenomenal. Every glance, every conversation, and every moment of proximity carried an intensity that kept me completely invested. The author does an incredible job building anticipation while balancing the darker themes with genuine emotional growth.
More than anything, this story explores how people carry their wounds, how the past shapes the future, and whether trust can ever truly be rebuilt after betrayal. It's messy, painful, passionate, and utterly addictive. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and found myself completely immersed in the emotional roller coaster.
If you're a fan of dark romance packed with angst, forbidden desire, complicated characters, and unforgettable emotional tension, this book deserves a spot at the top of your TBR. An easy five-star read that left me wanting more. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have to take a deep breath every time I jump into one of Ella's book cause OMFG!!! Oh yeah this is one of those books that leave you staring at the wall for a good hour.
Dark, emotional, and filled with deliciously complicated relationships, it was the perfect blend of angst, forbidden attraction, and heart-wrenching drama.
Jenna is a heroine who immediately earns your sympathy. Years ago, her future was destroyed by the very people who should have been in her corner, leaving her with broken dreams and scars that never truly healed. Just when she's finally starting to move forward, the past returns and forces her to confront everything she thought she'd left behind. Presented with an opportunity that could change her life, she's faced with an impossible choice—walk away from the one thing she's always wanted or risk everything by trusting the people who once shattered her world.
What made this book stand out was the depth of the characters and the emotional intensity woven throughout every chapter. Jenna's struggle felt real as she battled between protecting herself and chasing the future she's always longed for. Her strength, determination, and vulnerability made her impossible not to root for.
The two male leads bring their own unique brand of chaos to the story. Killian is burdened by the mistakes of his past, and every interaction with Jenna crackles with unresolved emotions, guilt, and longing. Ian, on the other hand, brings a completely different kind of temptation—one that's dangerous, complicated, and impossible to ignore. The emotional conflict surrounding these relationships added so much tension and made every scene feel meaningful.
The chemistry in this book is phenomenal. Every glance, every conversation, and every moment of proximity carried an intensity that kept me completely invested. The author does an incredible job building anticipation while balancing the darker themes with genuine emotional growth.
More than anything, this story explores how people carry their wounds, how the past shapes the future, and whether trust can ever truly be rebuilt after betrayal. It's messy, painful, passionate, and utterly addictive. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough and found myself completely immersed in the emotional roller coaster.
If you're a fan of dark romance packed with angst, forbidden desire, complicated characters, and unforgettable emotional tension, this book deserves a spot at the top of your TBR. An easy five-star read that left me wanting more. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 29, 2026
ARC Review
Imagine the very men who orchestrated your ruin returning to decide whether to piece you back together or shatter you permanently.
Let’s be real from the jump: this book is dark-dark. Double-check the trigger warnings before you even think about opening it, because Ella Jacobs isn't playing safe here. The setup is wild—Jenna finally beats her childhood bully and crush, Killian, at a piano recital. Instead of taking the L gracefully, Killian and his dad, Ian, orchestrate a toxic blackmail scheme using a secretly recorded tape to force her to drop out and abandon her music forever. Fast forward five years, Killian needs a genius duo partner to win an upcoming competition, and daddy dearest suggests hunting Jenna down. What follows is a brutal web of manipulation, coercion, and pure psychological dominance.
Now, a completely submissive FMC is usually a hard pass for me. I love a girlie who fights back and burns the kingdom down in a dark romance. But honestly? Reading Jenna’s perspective actually made me get it. The internal conflict was written so well that I completely understood her headspace and why she yielded to their control. My only major critique? The groveling was severely lacking. After the absolute hell these two men put her through, Jenna deserved a masterclass in begging. They got off way too easy for my taste, but the emotional pull was definitely there.
Overall Rating: 3.5
1. Writing Style & Prose - 25%
Rating: 4: Highly Accomplished
2. Plot & Setting - 25%
Rating: 3: Coherent & Adequate
3. Character Depth - 25%
Rating: 4: Richly Developed & Believable
4. Enjoyment & Impact - 25%
Rating: 3: Enjoyable & Pleasant
Imagine the very men who orchestrated your ruin returning to decide whether to piece you back together or shatter you permanently.
Let’s be real from the jump: this book is dark-dark. Double-check the trigger warnings before you even think about opening it, because Ella Jacobs isn't playing safe here. The setup is wild—Jenna finally beats her childhood bully and crush, Killian, at a piano recital. Instead of taking the L gracefully, Killian and his dad, Ian, orchestrate a toxic blackmail scheme using a secretly recorded tape to force her to drop out and abandon her music forever. Fast forward five years, Killian needs a genius duo partner to win an upcoming competition, and daddy dearest suggests hunting Jenna down. What follows is a brutal web of manipulation, coercion, and pure psychological dominance.
Now, a completely submissive FMC is usually a hard pass for me. I love a girlie who fights back and burns the kingdom down in a dark romance. But honestly? Reading Jenna’s perspective actually made me get it. The internal conflict was written so well that I completely understood her headspace and why she yielded to their control. My only major critique? The groveling was severely lacking. After the absolute hell these two men put her through, Jenna deserved a masterclass in begging. They got off way too easy for my taste, but the emotional pull was definitely there.
Overall Rating: 3.5
1. Writing Style & Prose - 25%
Rating: 4: Highly Accomplished
2. Plot & Setting - 25%
Rating: 3: Coherent & Adequate
3. Character Depth - 25%
Rating: 4: Richly Developed & Believable
4. Enjoyment & Impact - 25%
Rating: 3: Enjoyable & Pleasant
June 2, 2026
Broken In Their Hands by Ella Jacobs is an exceptionally dark, bully romance with why-choose. Following Jenna, her childhood friend turned bully Killian, and his father Ian on a morally questionable and emotional roller-coaster of a journey, Ella Jacobs has you experiencing all the emotions and leaves you ruminating on the characters and their story long after it's over.
My rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I cannot stress enough the dark nature of this book, right from the beginning. You quickly question if you can connect with some of these characters, and yet somehow Ella Jacobs had me waivering on what I thought would be a permanent hate of a character. That is what makes a book like this beautiful, and an author like Jacobs a stand out. If you can feel anything for a morally reprehensible character, that is a feat itself. The characters are complex, deeply flawed, and yet somehow you feel so much for them by the time you reach the end. Quite honestly it is hard to describe the characters or story without spoilers, so I will just share my opinion of the book in general. I think the writing is phenomenal and emotional, the characters are brutal and yet just crying out to be loved, and the overall story with stay with you long after you are done.
These are characters that are not to be emulated, and this is not a scenario any one should participate in as actual living people, but within the confines of a book, the exploration of trauma and healing are quite astounding. With full knowledge going in, I would recommend to advance readers in the genre.
My rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I cannot stress enough the dark nature of this book, right from the beginning. You quickly question if you can connect with some of these characters, and yet somehow Ella Jacobs had me waivering on what I thought would be a permanent hate of a character. That is what makes a book like this beautiful, and an author like Jacobs a stand out. If you can feel anything for a morally reprehensible character, that is a feat itself. The characters are complex, deeply flawed, and yet somehow you feel so much for them by the time you reach the end. Quite honestly it is hard to describe the characters or story without spoilers, so I will just share my opinion of the book in general. I think the writing is phenomenal and emotional, the characters are brutal and yet just crying out to be loved, and the overall story with stay with you long after you are done.
These are characters that are not to be emulated, and this is not a scenario any one should participate in as actual living people, but within the confines of a book, the exploration of trauma and healing are quite astounding. With full knowledge going in, I would recommend to advance readers in the genre.
May 25, 2026
⛓️ 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙄𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙃𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙗𝙮 𝙀𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙅𝙖𝙘𝙤𝙗𝙨⛓️
✨𝘼𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙉𝙤𝙬✨
𝙊𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚🔗👉🏻 https://a.co/d/0hSKOgbS
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Every time I go into a book written by Ella I know it’s going to be a deeply dark and emotional story. This story is taboo in all the right ways, emotionally raw, has MMCs that are extremely dominant and it kept me hooked until the last page!
The story starts with a piano competition. Jenna & Killian are both extremely talented pianists and Jenna finally beats Killian, winning first place! Killian can’t stand that she got the first place trophy so he took matters into his own hands, with the help of his father, by making sure Jenna won’t play the piano again. Jenna is obviously devastated by what happened that night and having to give up her passion but she rebuilds a life for herself outside of playing piano. Right when she thinks she has a plan for her life Killian appears out of the blue offering her the chance to play piano professionally again but of course his offer comes with strings attached. It’s not just Killian that wants something out of this deal but his father, Ian, as well!
This book was such a journey! We really get to see so much growth for all three of the main characters! Jenna has to break thru the trauma of her past and although she’s submissive she learns she has so much strength inside. Killian…ugh he made me so mad at times because he was just so damn mean ALL the time but EVENTUALLY he sees his flaws and realizes he does need to do better for Jenna. Oh and Ian, at first he’s completely focused on his son and it takes him a moment to realize he has room in his heart for Jenna too!
This book has absolutely insane spicy scenes! LOTS of degradation so if that’s not your cup of tea you probably won’t like this. BUT I think Ella writes all these different kinks so freaking well!
Overall, I absolutely LOVED this book and would definitely recommend to dark romance lovers just make sure to check the trigger warnings before you start reading!
✨𝘼𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙉𝙤𝙬✨
𝙊𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚🔗👉🏻 https://a.co/d/0hSKOgbS
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Every time I go into a book written by Ella I know it’s going to be a deeply dark and emotional story. This story is taboo in all the right ways, emotionally raw, has MMCs that are extremely dominant and it kept me hooked until the last page!
The story starts with a piano competition. Jenna & Killian are both extremely talented pianists and Jenna finally beats Killian, winning first place! Killian can’t stand that she got the first place trophy so he took matters into his own hands, with the help of his father, by making sure Jenna won’t play the piano again. Jenna is obviously devastated by what happened that night and having to give up her passion but she rebuilds a life for herself outside of playing piano. Right when she thinks she has a plan for her life Killian appears out of the blue offering her the chance to play piano professionally again but of course his offer comes with strings attached. It’s not just Killian that wants something out of this deal but his father, Ian, as well!
This book was such a journey! We really get to see so much growth for all three of the main characters! Jenna has to break thru the trauma of her past and although she’s submissive she learns she has so much strength inside. Killian…ugh he made me so mad at times because he was just so damn mean ALL the time but EVENTUALLY he sees his flaws and realizes he does need to do better for Jenna. Oh and Ian, at first he’s completely focused on his son and it takes him a moment to realize he has room in his heart for Jenna too!
This book has absolutely insane spicy scenes! LOTS of degradation so if that’s not your cup of tea you probably won’t like this. BUT I think Ella writes all these different kinks so freaking well!
Overall, I absolutely LOVED this book and would definitely recommend to dark romance lovers just make sure to check the trigger warnings before you start reading!
May 29, 2026
I have read some of Ella's works before, so if had an expectation of what I was getting into, but Ella has raised the bar with this one. I was insanely addicted to these characters. I couldn't put it down and never wanted it to end. The tension, angst and emotion was dripping from the pages so much so , that I could almost feel it in my bones. The spice was knee shaking - girl THAT bench...and the character redemptions and plot was perfection. While the book focused on very intense and depraved themes, Ella beautifully intertwined it with the importance of aftercare and trust building in BDSM. I really enjoyed how each characters' vulnerability was portrayed in the book as well, with it including the Dom characters as well as the Sub character. It was refreshing to read a book that showed even the bad boy book boyfriends have actual feelings other than just "touch her and die". Every chapter overflowed with so many emotions that I felt like I was in a whirlpool of chaos but in all the best ways. Killian was definitely giving me whiplash with his questionable attitude in the present day and his traumatic back story were I felt so incredibly sorry for him. His arc was a heck of a journey, but I would expect nothing less from Ella. Obviously the hero of the book was lil Ginny, cutest lil furbaby. Ella was ingenious in mirroring Killian and Jenna's relationship through Ginny and who doesn't love a persistent kitten wanting cuddles. Thank you so much for the opportunity to ARC read for you again, I look forward to more!
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!
June 4, 2026
NO, I DON’T WANT THIS BOOK TO END!!!!!!
I’m pretty bad at leaving reviews unless it’s for an ARC, but I have to get my thoughts on this book out. This is my first read from Ella Jacob’s, and I think I found out about this book from Instagram, I thank the algorithm gods for helping me find this book! I don’t know what drew me to read it, honestly I have only read one other why-choose book that I have really loved. In addition, heavy degradation isn’t normally my thing. I genuinely applied Ella for this incredible story of three amazingly complex characters. Ella Jacobs pulled off tropes and storylines that for me are normally a bust and not only made them hot as hell, but so emotionally charged. The deep dynamics that the FMC deals with from the MMC’s is astounding, it was just so beautiful and full of passion, and of course, dominance. This was a story for me I wanted to jump into my Kindle and live alongside the characters. I will without a doubt be reading more of Ella Jacobs work. 6 ⭐️
I’m pretty bad at leaving reviews unless it’s for an ARC, but I have to get my thoughts on this book out. This is my first read from Ella Jacob’s, and I think I found out about this book from Instagram, I thank the algorithm gods for helping me find this book! I don’t know what drew me to read it, honestly I have only read one other why-choose book that I have really loved. In addition, heavy degradation isn’t normally my thing. I genuinely applied Ella for this incredible story of three amazingly complex characters. Ella Jacobs pulled off tropes and storylines that for me are normally a bust and not only made them hot as hell, but so emotionally charged. The deep dynamics that the FMC deals with from the MMC’s is astounding, it was just so beautiful and full of passion, and of course, dominance. This was a story for me I wanted to jump into my Kindle and live alongside the characters. I will without a doubt be reading more of Ella Jacobs work. 6 ⭐️
May 26, 2026
Buckle up, Broken in Their Hands, is one hell of a time. This gripping story is fast paced, very intense, dark, depraved, emotional, and oh so twisted. I didn’t want to put it down, I was anxious to know what was going to happen. It is one that had me gagged, gave me heart palpitations, kept my jaw on the floor, and would have me holding my breath throughout. There’s moments that get deep, rough, and raw between Jenna, Ian, and Killian as they navigate their complex arrangement and their own self discovery 🫠
Jenna is demure, bright, and resilient as she finds herself backed into a corner with an offer she can’t refuse by the two men who ruined her life by taking what she loved most. Ian and Killian Ashcroft are both sadist dominants and very talented pianist who are so feral when it comes to Jenna. What’s meant to break her, just might break them all 🔥
Be sure to check TW’s as well 🖤
Thank you so much Ella Jacobs for this ARC 🫶🏻
Jenna is demure, bright, and resilient as she finds herself backed into a corner with an offer she can’t refuse by the two men who ruined her life by taking what she loved most. Ian and Killian Ashcroft are both sadist dominants and very talented pianist who are so feral when it comes to Jenna. What’s meant to break her, just might break them all 🔥
Be sure to check TW’s as well 🖤
Thank you so much Ella Jacobs for this ARC 🫶🏻
May 28, 2026
Woweeee. YOU ARE IN FOR A RIDE..
So first things first. If you have any hang ups against BdSm.. this is not for you.
Sharing, degradation, you name it.
You need to read the whole book to get all the feels.
It goes through stages.
I had a very strong dislike for certain Father and Son and even longer for the Son but I came around… I'm sure you will as well.
None of this author's works are easy reads. They are all Dark and that's why I love them.
I love the learning that happens between the pages. The total surrender.
Even if this is not something you can see yourself doing , between the pages you find a safe world to experience it.
Killian is tortured and he can thank his lucky stars he has Ian as a father.
Strong, silent and very-very Dominant.
Killian is Dominant without restraint.
*“Accept it,” he says. “Your body is not yours anymore. It hasn’t been for a while.”*
Jenna is a butterfly landing in the middle of CHAOS. But her strength lies in her fragility and her way of bringing light into the Dark.
It's very much a rollercoaster. One I loved.
So first things first. If you have any hang ups against BdSm.. this is not for you.
Sharing, degradation, you name it.
You need to read the whole book to get all the feels.
It goes through stages.
I had a very strong dislike for certain Father and Son and even longer for the Son but I came around… I'm sure you will as well.
None of this author's works are easy reads. They are all Dark and that's why I love them.
I love the learning that happens between the pages. The total surrender.
Even if this is not something you can see yourself doing , between the pages you find a safe world to experience it.
Killian is tortured and he can thank his lucky stars he has Ian as a father.
Strong, silent and very-very Dominant.
Killian is Dominant without restraint.
*“Accept it,” he says. “Your body is not yours anymore. It hasn’t been for a while.”*
Jenna is a butterfly landing in the middle of CHAOS. But her strength lies in her fragility and her way of bringing light into the Dark.
It's very much a rollercoaster. One I loved.
May 24, 2026
The most unshocking thing to happen this week was to read another Ella Jacob’s book and rate it 5 stars LMAO. I don’t know where to begin.
YESSS FATHER & SON share a girl. Yes you read that right. And yES!!!! it’s perfect.
The differences in them are so perfect. Ian is pure grounding, safety. Whether it’s his manipulations or not, you have no choice but to want to trust him, to lean into him. Killian is wild and sadistic and obsessive and you shouldn’t want him but yOU DO. MORE THAN ANYTHING. And I adore sweet Jenna!!!
I loved the pure angst in this. I physically couldn’t put it down. The music/piano inclusion was absolutely beautiful too and added so much depth. Even when there was a PHALLUS BENCH…. Yes. That is exactly what you think it is hahahaha.
I’m so in love with all of these characters and I could keep reading about them and their insane dynamic forever.
Ella & her writing forever has my heart 🖤🖤🖤🖤
YESSS FATHER & SON share a girl. Yes you read that right. And yES!!!! it’s perfect.
The differences in them are so perfect. Ian is pure grounding, safety. Whether it’s his manipulations or not, you have no choice but to want to trust him, to lean into him. Killian is wild and sadistic and obsessive and you shouldn’t want him but yOU DO. MORE THAN ANYTHING. And I adore sweet Jenna!!!
I loved the pure angst in this. I physically couldn’t put it down. The music/piano inclusion was absolutely beautiful too and added so much depth. Even when there was a PHALLUS BENCH…. Yes. That is exactly what you think it is hahahaha.
I’m so in love with all of these characters and I could keep reading about them and their insane dynamic forever.
Ella & her writing forever has my heart 🖤🖤🖤🖤
May 26, 2026
“𝗦𝗵𝗲’𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘀. 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝘂𝘀. 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀.”
Broken in their Hands is a dark taboo why choose romance. This was my first book by this author and it was every bit as depraved and filthy as I was expecting it to be and then some. I was hooked from the very first chapter. The dynamic between these three characters was so intense and I ate up every minute of it. This was also emotionally intense and the character development was so so good.
🎹Taboo
🦋Age gap
🎼Bully
🎹BDSM
🦋Teacher x student
🎼Father & son share FMC
🎹Dub con
🦋Pet play
🎼Enemies to lovers
🎹Manipulation
🦋Angsty
“𝗠𝘆 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿-𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗮𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗲.”
“𝗕𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗸𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗮𝗽 𝘂𝗽 𝗗𝗮𝗱’𝘀 𝗰𝘂𝗺,”
“𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗺𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝘆 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗳𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗮𝗱?”
Broken in their Hands is a dark taboo why choose romance. This was my first book by this author and it was every bit as depraved and filthy as I was expecting it to be and then some. I was hooked from the very first chapter. The dynamic between these three characters was so intense and I ate up every minute of it. This was also emotionally intense and the character development was so so good.
🎹Taboo
🦋Age gap
🎼Bully
🎹BDSM
🦋Teacher x student
🎼Father & son share FMC
🎹Dub con
🦋Pet play
🎼Enemies to lovers
🎹Manipulation
🦋Angsty
“𝗠𝘆 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿-𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗮𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗲.”
“𝗕𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗸𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗮𝗽 𝘂𝗽 𝗗𝗮𝗱’𝘀 𝗰𝘂𝗺,”
“𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗺𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝘆 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗳𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗮𝗱?”
May 16, 2026
In her teenage years, Jenna had to forcibly forgo piano after Killian, her former friend and prime ‘’rival’’, bribed her and left her with traumas. Now, some years down the line, he comes back with a proposition: be his partner for an upcoming competition and potentially be brought to fame… or stay in this pitiful place she currently is and continue to never play again in front of an audience. If she accepts, she will be under Killian’s father tutorage, a celebrity in their domain. Jenna doesn’t know if she can trust Killian again and Ian is determined to make her realize he can become her safe place. Along with his son, if he finally would do aftercare. Thing is, both the dad and the son want more from this arrangement. But what does Jenna want?
Ella Jacobs always push me, and therefore my limits, when I read one of her books. I gravitate towards her work, mainly because I love the dom/sub dynamic depicted and because her characters are morally grey to a fault. In BITH, I thought Killian and Ian were a little different in those terms (Stockholm syndrome to a minimum), even if the manipulation was still overly present. There was a softer side to this book that I quite enjoyed, such fragile and precious vulnerability. But don’t fret, there are still some moments.
It’s definitely a taboo relationship, with lots of ups and downs, of sometimes breach of trust followed by guilt and deep rooted trauma. In all honesty, it surprises me how much I ended up liking it. There was just something about all of the characters coming together (no puns intended), trying to work on their traumas, knowing they have done questionable actions that were harmful. I think it might be my favorite by Ella, quickly followed by her Enslaved series.
Thank you so much to Ella for the arc, I’m excited for all you have to share with us.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Keywords: taboo, morally grey, enemies to lovers, angsty, why choose, dub-c0n, bully, manipulation, an4l (lots), student/teacher.
Ella Jacobs always push me, and therefore my limits, when I read one of her books. I gravitate towards her work, mainly because I love the dom/sub dynamic depicted and because her characters are morally grey to a fault. In BITH, I thought Killian and Ian were a little different in those terms (Stockholm syndrome to a minimum), even if the manipulation was still overly present. There was a softer side to this book that I quite enjoyed, such fragile and precious vulnerability. But don’t fret, there are still some moments.
It’s definitely a taboo relationship, with lots of ups and downs, of sometimes breach of trust followed by guilt and deep rooted trauma. In all honesty, it surprises me how much I ended up liking it. There was just something about all of the characters coming together (no puns intended), trying to work on their traumas, knowing they have done questionable actions that were harmful. I think it might be my favorite by Ella, quickly followed by her Enslaved series.
Thank you so much to Ella for the arc, I’m excited for all you have to share with us.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Keywords: taboo, morally grey, enemies to lovers, angsty, why choose, dub-c0n, bully, manipulation, an4l (lots), student/teacher.
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 23, 2026
This might be my favorite from Ella so far. She really took me through a gauntlet of emotions.
I almost wanted to DNF after reading what Killian did to Jenna but I persevered because this is what Ella’s stories do. They evoke visceral emotions. Her books are a process and a journey. One I deep down never want to stop, no matter how much I hate a character. There is always a character arc. Not a redemption per se. But something. Something that brings me around. Though Killian tested me for sure, I think that is where Ian comes in. He provides some much needed Yang to Killians Yin. A breath, a reprieve, a comfort to get through to Killian’s turning point.
And Killian does get that redemption arc. I seriously did not think I’d be able to get behind him but once IT happens, I was glued to the pages. And he brought me around to love him, dang him.
I loved not only Jenna, Ian and Killian’s journey but we also get Jenna and Ian and Jenna and Killian and even Ian and Killian. There was so much depth to this trio.
I simply loved it. The characters, the music, the animals, the over all journey was amazing. It’s taboo with being Father/son, but it didn’t feel taboo to me. It felt…right.
I almost wanted to DNF after reading what Killian did to Jenna but I persevered because this is what Ella’s stories do. They evoke visceral emotions. Her books are a process and a journey. One I deep down never want to stop, no matter how much I hate a character. There is always a character arc. Not a redemption per se. But something. Something that brings me around. Though Killian tested me for sure, I think that is where Ian comes in. He provides some much needed Yang to Killians Yin. A breath, a reprieve, a comfort to get through to Killian’s turning point.
And Killian does get that redemption arc. I seriously did not think I’d be able to get behind him but once IT happens, I was glued to the pages. And he brought me around to love him, dang him.
I loved not only Jenna, Ian and Killian’s journey but we also get Jenna and Ian and Jenna and Killian and even Ian and Killian. There was so much depth to this trio.
I simply loved it. The characters, the music, the animals, the over all journey was amazing. It’s taboo with being Father/son, but it didn’t feel taboo to me. It felt…right.
May 28, 2026
Broken in Their Hands was such an emotional rollercoaster. Ella wrote these characters in a way that made me feel conflicted in the best possible way. There were moments where I knew I should be upset or discouraged by the storyline, but instead I found myself completely invested and cheering them on anyway — that takes seriously brilliant writing. The angst, toxic dynamics, emotional damage, and character growth were all done so well. Jenna’s journey and figuring out who she truly is had me so emotionally attached, and the childhood connection/history between the characters added even more depth. This book hurt, healed, and consumed me all at once. This is one book that should not be missed. I am truly scarred but in a good way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews