Breaking Wicked Rules

by Rachel Donnan

Genres: Fake Dating

399 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 27, 2026

About the author

Rachel Donnan is an Irish author who loves nothing more than writing and daydreaming about love stories. She loves to write fast-paced romance stories that include morally gray men that make you swoon, strong female leads to root for, and spicy scenes (because who doesn’t love a bit of spice?).

Fueled by copious amounts of tea and cinnamon buns, she spends most of her time filling her countless notebooks with new ideas, getting lost in the pages of any romance novels she can get her hands on, cuddling her two fur babies, and exploring the greenery of the island she calls home with her second-hand camera.

Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After]

3.75🌟 | 3🌶️

Two people with plenty of baggage pretending to be in love was always going to get complicated, and watching it happen was so much fun.

Elliott and Livi had such natural chemistry, and I enjoyed watching their fake relationship slowly turn into something neither of them could ignore.

Elliott was probably my favourite. His humour made him so easy to love, but his struggle with addiction brought a much more vulnerable side to his character. I also really admired Livi’s strength as she started choosing herself instead of letting her family continue to define her. Their relationship felt supportive without either of them becoming the other’s solution, which made their emotional growth especially satisfying.

The story kept me invested with its mix of humour, tension, romance, and heavier themes. A few things didn’t completely land for me, but they were easy to overlook because the characters and their connection carried the story so well.

This was an emotional, entertaining romance with plenty of moments that made me smile and root for these two.

~~~~

A sincere thank you to Rachel Donnan and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 🥰📚

I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨

[Libbie]

Thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy!

Breaking Wicked Rules follows Elliot and Livi. Elliot experiencing addiction issues and feeling like he’s hit rock bottom. Livi having just had her ex boyfriend cheat on her with her own sister and dealing with her mom’s emotional abuse. Now with Elliot feeling like his boss hates him and Livi dealing with being blackmailed by her mom into organising her sisters wedding, the two of them set a deal to be in a fake relationship that will benefit them both. But when every false touch, kiss and look starts to feel more real than fake, the two of them have to start working on their own problems to be together.

I didn’t really get on with this very well. It had its really great moments of course. It was funny and I like it when romance books have a humour aspect.

There were a variety of things I couldn’t get past though. The writing at times felt like it was written whilst distracted. That’s the best way I can describe it. I know this is an ARC copy but sometimes it felt like things were being said twice for no reason.

I love languages in books but I was spending more time highlighting words and translating than I was reading, it got annoying. I might just be missing something because I haven’t read the first two books but the random couple of words in his sentences being in French just stood out like a sore thumb because it was so unnecessary. I don’t know how they were understanding each other.

Livi also mentioned “My poor excuse for ovaries” x2 before any mention of infertility. So I was a bit confused on if she was actually experiencing that or if she was just commenting on her body.

On the other hand I did love Livvi as a character. She was strong and stood up for herself when it came to how shitty her family treated her. I loved that she took it upon herself to find out her own identity and put herself before a sister who betrayed her and a mother who gave her all of her insecurities.

Thanks again to Rachel Donnan for the ARC! <3

[Wendy Livingstone]

This is the third book in this series, and this is Elliott and Livi’s story.
Elliott’s addictions dictated his life, and after hitting rock bottom, he is now focused on a job promotion, while Livi needs a fake boyfriend to a few months, after her mother forces her to organise her sister’s wedding, to her cheating ex-boyfriend.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, drama, fake dating, close proximity, challenges, romance, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner.
I received an ARC copy from Love Notes PR.

[Sammy B]

I really enjoyed the addiction representation in Breaking Wicked Rules, and the complex family relationships were definitely one of my favourite parts of the book. The romance also had some really great moments, but overall, I felt a little disconnected from the characters, which made it harder for me to fully invest in the story.

And I absolutely hated the ex. 😭

There was a lot here that I liked, but unfortunately it didn’t completely come together for me.

[Jenna Lundberg]

❤️‍🩹❤️‍🔥 They Were Pretending to Fall in Love Until Nothing Felt Fake ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🩹
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 Chili Peppers

Two people with plenty of baggage agreeing to pretend they're in love for four months?

What could possibly go wrong? 😂❤️

Breaking Wicked Rules pulled me in with the fake-dating setup, but Elliott and Livi's emotional journeys were what kept me completely invested. This story had humor, romance, chemistry, family drama, heavier emotional themes, and two people slowly realizing that the relationship they're pretending to have might be one of the most genuine things in their lives.

And Elliott Dade?

I absolutely adored this man. ❤️

Elliott is witty, funny, self-deprecating, intelligent, and has a sense of humor that made him so easy to love.

And yes, the glasses certainly didn't hurt. 😂👓

But underneath that humor is a man fighting a much harder battle.

Addiction has controlled parts of Elliott's life for years, and after hitting rock bottom, he's trying to rebuild. He's focused heavily on work and earning a promotion, only for his new boss to point out that Elliott basically has no life outside his career.

Enter Livi and her need for a fake boyfriend.

Convenient for everyone, right?

Livi's situation made me want to reach through the pages and hug her while simultaneously having some WORDS with her family.

Her ex-boyfriend cheated on her with her own sister, and now her mother is forcing her to help organize their wedding.

Yes.

You read that correctly.

HER SISTER'S WEDDING TO HER CHEATING EX.

😳

It's really no surprise that Livi has created strict rules to protect herself, with the biggest being that she will never fall in love again.

She's been betrayed, hurt, and made to feel like she should shrink herself to accommodate the people around her. Her struggles with self-worth and body image add another emotional layer to her story, and I really admired the strength she gradually finds as she starts choosing herself instead of allowing her family to continue defining her.

Then there's Elliott.

Her very fake boyfriend who becomes suspiciously good at being exactly the person she needs beside her. ❤️

Their chemistry felt natural from the beginning, and I loved watching their pretend relationship slowly become something neither could ignore.

They're both so adorably oblivious at times too. 😂

Each starts feeling more.

Each worries the other doesn't.

Each tries to remember this has an expiration date.

Meanwhile they're building an actual relationship underneath all the pretending.

I especially loved the way Elliott supports Livi when it comes to her family. He doesn't take over her battles or magically give her confidence. He simply stands beside her and reminds her through his words and actions that the way she's been treated isn't okay.

Eventually, Livi begins standing up for herself.

That distinction mattered to me.

Elliott isn't Livi's rescuer, and Livi isn't Elliott's cure.

Their relationship gives them a safe place to be honest and vulnerable, but they still have to do the difficult work themselves.

That was particularly important with Elliott's addiction storyline.

His struggle isn't brushed aside just because he's fallen in love. Recovery is messy, and I appreciated that the story acknowledges how complicated an addictive personality can be. Elliott can avoid one unhealthy behavior only to find himself reaching for another, and those moments added a vulnerability beneath all his humor that really got to me.

But what I appreciated most was that Elliott ultimately chooses to get help for himself.

Not simply because he loves Livi.

Not because he's afraid of disappointing the people around him.

Because Elliott finally decides that HE deserves something better.

🥹❤️‍🩹

Livi can love him.

She can support him.

She can stand beside him.

But she can't make that choice for him.

And the same is true in reverse.

Elliott can reassure Livi when those old insecurities and hurtful voices creep back in. He can remind her of what he sees when he looks at her. He can support her when dealing with her family.

But Livi is the one who eventually decides she's allowed to take up space in her own life.

I loved that.

Their individual struggles are completely different, yet there's this quiet understanding between them because both know what it feels like to carry something heavy.

And then Rachel Donnan balances all of that emotional depth with moments that made me laugh.

Because apparently Elliott can create a fake-dating arrangement with actual rules and color-coded tabs.

Of course he can. 😂

And between his humor, the banter, the fake relationship, forced proximity, the increasingly not-so-fake kisses, and some very memorable spicy moments, the story never felt consumed by its heavier themes.

There were a couple of story choices that didn't completely land for me, but honestly, Elliott and Livi had me so invested that they were incredibly easy to overlook.

I was rooting for them.

I wanted Livi to choose herself.

I wanted Elliott to believe he was worthy of the work it would take to get better.

And I desperately wanted these two to realize that they weren't actually pretending anymore.

Breaking Wicked Rules ended up being emotional, funny, romantic, steamy, and much deeper than I initially expected from the fake-dating premise.

Two people enter an arrangement believing they know exactly how to protect themselves.

Livi has rules designed to keep anyone from breaking her heart again.

Elliott has spent years fighting his own battles and trying to rebuild after rock bottom.

Neither one fixes the other.

Instead, they become the person standing beside each other while they learn how to fight for themselves.

And somewhere along the way, four months of pretending turns into something neither wants to walk away from. ❤️‍🩹❤️

Content note: This story deals with heavier subjects, including addiction and recovery, mental health, panic attacks, body-image struggles, family conflict, and betrayal. I recommend checking the author's content warnings before reading.

Thank you to Rachel Donnan and Love Notes PR for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Brita Mackay]

For as long as Elliott can remember, his addictions have dictated his life.
That was until he finally hit rock bottom.

Now, he’s fighting for the job promotion that might just save him.

The only problem? His new boss hates him and accuses him of having no work-life balance.

So, when Livi falls into Elliott’s life and needs a fake boyfriend, he seizes the opportunity.

Four months of pretending to date the woman who breathes life back into him should be easy, right?

However, the more they pretend, the more he forgets it’s not real, and Elliott starts to realise walking away from her might be the one thing he can’t do.


After Livi’s ex-boyfriend cheated on her with her own sister, she lives by a set of strict rules. The most fundamental rule being to never fall in love again.
She’s committed herself to a life of solitude.
But when her mother blackmails her into organising her sister’s wedding, Livi is forced to save face and pretend she has a boyfriend.
Elliott not only swoops in and fills the role of fake boyfriend perfectly, but he awakens something inside Livi she swore no longer existed.
With every glance, every touch, every kiss, he leaves her wondering if he is worth breaking every single one of her rules for.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. Some content and scenes in this book may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first. Reader discretion is advised.

Tropes: Fake Dating/Fake Relationship, Workplace Romance, Fake Relationship Turns Real, He Falls First, She’s Sworn Off Love, Cheating Ex / Betrayed FMC, Family Betrayal, Forced Proximity, Wedding Romance, Dating to Save Face, Opposites Attract, Wounded Hero and Wounded FMC, Recovering Addict MMC, Redemption and Second Chances, Love as Healing, Breaking Down Her Walls, Mutual Emotional Rescue, Forbidden Feelings, Family Drama, Blackmail/Manipulative Parent, Temporary Relationship with a Deadline, Only One Rule: Don’t Fall in Love, Fake Dating, He Falls First, She’s Sworn Off Love Recovering MMC, Family Betrayal, Healing, Redemption, Trust, Learning to Risk Love Again

Breaking Wicked Rules is the 3rd book in the Wicked Dade Series by Rachel Donnan.

At first sight, the story has the easy smile of a fake-dating romantic comedy, with all its quick banter and playful pretense. But beneath the laughter, a deeper feeling begins to build, a slow, powerful attraction that leaves the reader emotionally drained and gasping, as though laughter and grief have been quietly holding hands under the table.

Elliott Dade moves along the hospital corridors, illuminated by the fluorescent lights, with the quiet seriousness of a man who has learned to keep his ghosts in his coat pocket. His mother's absence shows in the way he avoids mirrors and in the careful, almost reverent way he watches Livi when she isn't looking. He puts together their arrangement with the precision of a surgeon, using color-coded tabs and rules written in neat lines, each page a silent confession he can't bring himself to say aloud.

When they are made to share a bed, Elliott's usual calm breaks down and his hands shake slightly, revealing the turmoil inside him. Livi, quiet and cautious, has developed the habit of shrinking to match her family's sharp demands, eating their remarks and smiling even as she hurts. Yet a change comes about, a slowly building storm. By the time she stands there, knuckles white, confronting her ex, the atmosphere is charged, as if a woman is taking back control of her own life.
Livi's journey is not a straight path but a sequence of small acts of rebellion, specifically, a refusal to apologize for the space she occupies and a growing steadiness in her voice.

The narrative has the same rhythm as a heart learning to beat on its own. On the porch, in the quiet of midnight, Elliott's voice breaks, and he says, 'My name is Elliott Dade, and I am an addict.' The words remain between them, fragile and unguarded. Later, he puts his inheritance into the quiet process of Livi's recovery, as gently and unseen as a hand supporting her back.

Elliott does not act in the way of a conventional rescuer, instead serving as a stable figure who provides her with the safety and independence, she needs to heal herself. This is a significant change from the usual pattern found in romance stories. The novel features a slow-developing romance and builds tension successfully.

The progression of physical intimacy is carefully controlled: the first important kiss happens around the 40% mark, and a more full-bodied scene occurs around the 55% mark. Elliott's eventual emotional vulnerability shows in her deep admiration for a heroine who has long struggled with feelings of inadequacy, especially around her body image. The relationship includes both dominant and tender affection, as well as praise kink. There is also some comedic relief.

The vibrator named 'Dean Winchester' makes its appearance with the confident attitude of a cult hero, with a wink hidden among the sheets. The villains, both family members and ex-partners, appear larger than life, their cruelty shown in bold, flashy terms, so each small victory against them feels like a rebellion worth celebrating.

The story touches upon the improbable, using the usual elements of a romance. Yet the fundamental emotional truth is so evident that the joins between the parts are hardly noticeable.

Rachel Donnan guides the narrative with the precision of a conductor, ensuring each beat and pause moves the reader forward, so minor notes blend into the overall musicality.

Breaking Wicked Rules is a story in its own right, one that leaves a deep impression on the heart, while at the same time it provides a doorway into the wider world of the Wicked Dade series; what starts as a game of pretend eventually becomes a statement about the messy yet luminous nature of loving and being loved in turn and thus restored to wholeness.

[Claudia June Reads]

⭐ Rating:4.5 / 5 (Rounded up to 5 because seriously this was so so so good.)


🌶️Spice:4 / 5 (Slow burn, praise kink, body worship, consent KINGGGGG)




[MILD SPOILERS AHEAD — PROCEED WITH DELIGHT OR CAUTION DEPENDING ON IF YOU’VE READ IT OR NOT]


Picture me, sitting down for what I thought was going to be a breezy little fake-dating rom-com, only to end up full-body SOBBING in my living room because a tortured ER doctor silently swapped dinner plates with his fake girlfriend.


I’m not joking right now, 100% for real. Actual sobbing. Hiccup sobbing. Snot down the nose, but still smiling sobbing. Can’t see the pages clearly, sobbing.

Right… the review… sorry I was having flash backs… okay… *deep breath*

So here we go… again… mild spoilers… anyway…


Elliott Dade… you absolute menace of a man. LOVED HIM. NEVER CHANGE. Okay so, he’s in recovery, he carries a mountain of guilt from finding his mother after her suicide as a kid (HOOOORIBLE BY THE WAY, LIKE WHY DO THIS TO ME AND HIM???), and he is so desperately, quietly in love with Livi that he makes her a literal (I sh*t you not) color-coded fake-dating *rule binder*.

When they get “forced” into the only-one-bed situation between Monaco and Montana? It’s over for him. It was over for me too by the way. Lord give me strength. He was down bad from chapter one. And I…. was hooked from PAGE ONE.


And Livi? My sweet, people-pleasing girl who has been emotionally bulldozed by her toxic family (NEVER WANTED TO THROAT PUNCH A FICTIONAL GROUP OF CHARACTERS SO BAD IN MY ENTIRE LIFE) her WHOLE life.


Watching her go from a doormat who takes her mother’s weaponized diet salads to an absolute QUEEN who punches her slimy ex Daniel straight in the jaw (I CHEERED) when he tries to publicly out Elliott’s addiction?


Genuinely the most cathartic fist-pump moment of the year. That was written so well… also… if we are getting into craft… How Livi *wanted* to fall back into her bad old habits, but CHOSE to stand up? CHOSE to be strong. CHOSE to be the QUEEN she was always meant to be?

I have chills writing this. The writing, the pacing and how that “shift” was structured, probably some of the best I’ve read this entire year. True, blessed, compliment.


And another thing, can we talk about the emotional weight of this book? BECAUSE I DID NOT EXPECT IT TO BE *THIS* HEAVY.


THAT porch scene where Elliott says *"My name is Elliott Dade and I am an addict"* broke me in half. And finding out he quietly spent his own inheritance to prepay her therapy so she could heal without financial stress? Greenest of green flags in the literary history of green flags. It flagged so hard it deserves it’s own anthem.


He doesn't just swoop in and fix her; he simple is there, present and he gives her the safety net to stand up for herself. Which is not a common theme in ANY sort of Romance genre you’d seen in the last two-ish years. And I didn’t realize how much I yearned for that until this book slapped me through the heart with it.


Now because its me and I can’t help myself (teehee) Heat check: THIS. BOOK. IS. A. TRUEEEEEEEE. agonizing slow burn *Finger snaps, head down in remembrance* (first real kiss near 40%, first full scene around 55%), but when Elliott snaps, oh ho ho ho… baby he SNAPSSSSS.


We are talking: Praise kink to the ceiling, dominant but SO gentle, and pure,his absolute, jaw dropping, reverent body worship for a curvy heroine who’s spent her life feeling unlovable????? I can’t. I literally can’t. So good. Just… so… good.


PLUS!!!! the comedic relief with a certain vibrator named "Dean Winchester"? Iconic. 4/5 chili peppers. As a honorary member of the Winchester army I approved. I. APPROVE.


Every villain in this book is dialed to an eleven (her family and ex are cartoonishly evil, i HATED THEM AND i LOVED EVERY MOMENT OF IT), and there are a couple of classic romance-convenience moments, but the emotional sniper shots hit so clean that I didn't care. I really didn’t. Because the pacing, the plot, the character development, the structure, it was all so well done and clean that even me, just breezed passed it. I noticed. I always noticed. But Rachel worked it so masterfully that I was like, eh, whatever, *flips page grinning like an idiot*.


So yeah. Wicked Dade #3 is an absolute knockout. It reads as a standalone, but I am now marching backwards to read the brothers' books immediately. Fake dating that turns into finding someone who loves every messy, healing part of you.


4.5 stars. Absolutely devoured.


*CW: Addiction (gambling, alcohol, benzos) & recovery, past parental suicide, panic attacks, disordered eating/body shaming, dementia, toxic family, infidelity backstory. 18+.*


*(I received a gifted ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.)*

[Emmy Wong]

Starting this love with a cliche line “some people are just worth breaking rules for” and that’s exactly what this book is all about. Two extremely damaged people, who’ve been through so much alone because of all the walls they built to keep themselves from getting hurt from other people again. Both Elliot and Livi are broken and lost souls at the start, but by the end of the book they’ve healed and put each other back together. The fake dating is adorable with how they keep trying to pull back thinking the other isn’t falling, but gosh they’re so cutely oblivious. They have such a beautiful and healthy representation of love that my heart felt like it was glowing, every time Elliot defended Livi in front of her mom and every time Livi reassured Elliot that he was worth loving. A huge part of this book is Elliot’s addiction and I cried at how strong he was trying to fight it because it’s such an up and down journey and as readers we go through every bit of angst. I do want to warn that there is mentions of body image and obsessing over food, in which Livi abandons the “model body” her mom forced her to have for her health and happiness, but sometimes it’s hard to ignore that nagging voice in your head that puts you down. I love how Elliot knows when those thoughts get to her and pulls her out of it with the sweetest compliments and affirmations. Livi also has PMOS and I’m so happy to have learned more about it, because that’s why we have representation in books. I see so much of myself in Livi and in Elliot too that I couldn’t help but fall deeply and feel deeply for them. The wiring was so good that it felt like I was going through every major twist and turn with them; which obviously led to many tears but also one of the best reads I’ve had in a while. I also loved the mental health representation because as if the angst wasn’t even with Livi fighting her parents and Elliot fighting his addiction, they both get panic attacks that felt so darn real I got chills. But it also showed how beautiful their love is when they ground each other so Rachel Donnan you are forgiven for my emotional trauma. On a lighter note though Elliot is a doctor so he’s hot and intelligent the perfect combo. And I just love a man who pauses when kissing you to take his glasses off then resume with the freaky stuff. Ultimately having someone in your corner that you can rely on is great, but I love how Elliot doesn’t just “replace one addiction with another” and focuses on improving himself with support and strength that she gives him. The most beautiful thing a man can do, is admit his mistakes and seek help, because a man in therapy is hot as hell. And the fact that he’s doing it so he can be better person for her, gosh my heart cannot take this much sweetness. I finished this book bawling like a baby from how emotional I got, because the plot and characters were just angsty romance perfection. I love Elliot and Livi and still feel so connected to them in the most vile broken parts of myself. I cannot recommend this more and give it a 6/5

[Shannon]

To be seen is to be loved. 4/5 star read!

I had the opportunity to get an advanced copy, and here's my honest review.

The story follows Olivia who has enough family drama for a lifetime and Elliot, who can't seem to catch a break between his laundry list of addictive habits, childhood anguish, and desire to live up to the potential his mentor saw in him. Two peas in a traumatic pod who swore never to love or date again. Funny how you start nevering when you say you will never lol.

Their first time meeting was almost heart stopping - well that's if you let Livi tell it. Either way it was impressive enough to ensure fate tossed them into each other's paths. So with them each having a problem that seemingly only fake dating can fix, what could go wrong?

I appreciated the real and very relateable look into how people experience anxiety. While it isn't a one size fits all, how the author used real CBT methods and highlighted how somethimes THEY DON'T WORK AT ALL because you're strung too damn tight. And how it funnels your decision making through a lense of fear and makes you do or accept things you otherwise wouldn't. It was perfect in my opinion.

The pacing was nice and it didn't spend too much time with unneccesary drama amongst peripheral characters >spoiler< which I appreciated because I could sense Minnie coming onto Elliot if she was given enough attention. It showed what love could look like for 'damaged' people who are considerate, kind, and listen to love rather than respond from their past hurt.

The moment I knew I was absolutely going to love this books was when they went to dinner and Elliot prioritised Livi. And he didn't dissapoint me a moment since then.

He saw her! It's one thing to feel cared for, but to have unspoken needs met because your person SEES YOU? Whew that's the stuff!

I also appreciated that they didn't trauma bond. They had sparks and liked each other based on how helpful the other person was to them and the chemistry they had vs feeling like seeing themselves in the other's pain.

Now to the characters I couldn't stand. I CAN'T STAND HER MOTHER, MAYA or DANIEL. ' I hate the way that you walk, the way that you talk, >spoiler< the way that you belittle Livi, the way you are bold face dirty cheating scumbags, and they all deserved public shaming! >/spoiler< or w.e Kendrick said I suppose.

>spoiler< Oh and I didn't dislike Cassandra even in theory, because leaving a situation like that is a valid reason. Was he hurt? Yes..but maybe she wasn't equipped to manage that with him or she simply didn't want to and that's okay. He found his person in the end!

A nice read that you should all give a try. I'll definitely be digging into the previous books.

Happy reading!

[Lisa]

My oh my, my emotions are on a new level. While I try to contain them I can’t help but absolutely, without a doubt, love this story. 🥰

Livi, what a beautiful, strong willed woman. The amount of times I just wanted to pull her through the pages and save her from her treacherous family. Her mom—oh how I wish I could have just punched her. What an awful human. BUT, we’re not going to dwell on that. Because Livi, regardless of all of that, still shines with a her ridiculous humor and kindness.

Elliot—no matter what life threw at him, he never gave up, as much as he wanted to. And my heart continued to grow with care for him. With hope. Accepting the truth about yourself and accepting help is truly a difficult thing to do. But when people you love and care about are by your side with want of supporting you—you’d be amazed at what you can accomplish.

In the beginning I was questioning how Livi and Elliot would cross paths. And how this would become a fake dating scenario. Until it happened. And it made sense. The two of them together was beautiful, hilarious and heartwarming and also heartbreaking in a way. Her trust in love and his trust in opening up is something that is hard to do. They both had their flaws and their reasons behind their so called rules in life. But when they decided they could help each other out with the overwhelming roadblocks in their life—it made sense. And thank the lord they did. Reading their journey, getting to know each other emotionally, had me absolutely sobbing. That doesn’t usually happen. But the fact that they grew trust in one another and continued to build that trust and be there whenever they needed, absolutely makes me overjoyed and my heart swoon.

I didn’t know what to expect going into this, but I honestly didn’t expect my heart to grow three sizes. Livi and Elliot are complete opposites, but they complete each other. Having someone you can depend on and having someone by your side with the support and love that they give each other is utterly beautiful.

I am captivated by this stunning read. It goes into the true challenges of life and relationships but it dives into the deeper meaning of focusing on yourself and doing what’s right for you. To be selfish for yourself for once. This story had me laughing, crying, and raging—but it was breathtaking and it’s one that I’m going to absolutely think of often. Without a doubt 100% recommend. This was my first book by the author and definitely not my last. Her writing is exquisite and the storytelling is phenomenal.

[RogueWeaver]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

A huge thank you to Love Notes PR and Rachel Donnan for providing me with an ARC of Breaking Wicked Rules in exchange for an honest review.

I have somewhat conflicted thoughts on Breaking Wicked Rules. The core setup—fake dating mixed with heavy, complex emotional baggage—had so much promise, and while there are genuinely brilliant moments and great flashes of humour, the overall execution didn't completely pull together for me.

The Premise & The Characters
The story pairs Elliott, a workaholic doctor battling his own addiction and trying to keep his career afloat, with Livi, an event planner forced into the absolute nightmare scenario of organising her sister’s wedding to her cheating ex. The sheer toxicity of Livi’s family dynamic had my blood boiling—her mother is utterly vile and image-obsessed, and the betrayal from both her sister and ex was infuriating.

Livi was easily the highlight of the book for me. She is strong-willed, determined to carve out her own path, and stands her ground against the emotional abuse hurled at her. Elliott is equally complex, and I really appreciated the candid, sensitive way his struggles with addiction and recovery were integrated into the plot rather than brushed over. Their transition from pragmatic allies to something deeper had some lovely emotional beats.

Where It Stumbled
Despite the strong premise, I found it difficult to stay fully invested. The pacing felt uneven, and the narrative occasionally suffered from repetition—certain ideas felt restated without adding any fresh weight, making the delivery feel slightly disjointed in places.

A few stylistic choices also took me right out of the flow. While I usually love multilingual elements in romance, the random French words peppered into the dialogue felt unnecessary and pulled me out of the scene rather than adding natural flair. Similarly, a couple of heavy subplots and sensitive topics felt introduced rather abruptly, which muddied the clarity of what the characters were going through before the context properly caught up.

Final Thoughts
There is a solid foundation here, and Rachel Donnan clearly puts immense heart and care into handling heavy triggers and complicated family trauma. If you love a high-drama fake dating trope with a fierce FMC who deserves the world, you will certainly find things to enjoy. For me, the tonal hurdles and slight disconnect kept it from reaching its full potential, making it a solid, albeit mixed, 3-star read.

[Mikayla ♥︎]

ARC REVIEW
★★★★.5

I genuinely could not put this book down. I stayed up late into the night reading, telling myself, "just one more chapter," only to read the first line of the next and immediately keep going.

Breaking Wicked Rules follows Elliott and Livi as they enter a fake relationship for four months, only to find their pretend romance is becoming something neither of them expected. With both carrying their own past hurts and struggles, they find comfort, understanding, and healing in each other while learning that some rules are meant to be broken.

I absolutely adored Elliott. He's witty, funny, and has this self-deprecating humour that made me laugh even when I wanted to give him a hug. He's quickly become one of my favourite MMCs.

Though behind all the humour and sweet and spicy moments, the reality of Elliott's addictions was heartbreaking to read. The way he would reward himself with one addiction because he had managed to avoid another showed how difficult that cycle can be, especially when you have such an addictive personality. His struggles never felt brushed aside or romanticized, and I loved that the people around him didn't simply blame him for his choices. Instead, they tried to understand him and help him get back on his feet.

One of my favourite things about Elliott's story was how his decision to get help came from himself. In the end, he didn't do it solely because he felt like he owed it to his mentor or wanted to make him proud. He didn't do it because he was afraid his brothers would find out. And he didn't even do it because he fell in love with Livi. He chose to get help because he wanted to be better for himself. Everyone around him encouraged him, but the decision was ultimately his, and I really appreciated that.

I also really loved how understanding both Elliott and Livi were of each other. Their traumas are completely different, but they recognize something in one another and connect on a deeper level. Neither of them judges the other for the things they've been through. Instead, they become a source of support and help each other in ways they didn't expect.

Overall, this was such a compelling read. The characters, emotional depth, and the romance pulled me in. Elliott and his slutty little glasses stole my heart, and his and Livi's relationship had me hooked from beginning to end. I'm definitely picking up the rest of the series now! ❤

[Antonia]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars

I want to start off by thanking Love Notes PR and Rachel Donan for receiving this ARC in exchange for an honest review

This is one of the first books I have read by Rachel Donnan, even though I haven’t read any of the other books in this series I didn’t feel like I missed much information as there are mentions of the other brothers in this book.

This book touches on some really heavy topics so I would urge you to read the trigger warnings before you go into this book, but the author themselves handled each trigger with such care and you could tell there was a lot of time and effort put into this before sending out the arcs.

Olivia, Liv, runs her own events planning business, much to the dislike of her mother, and she has been given the task to plan her sisters wedding, not only is she having to do all of this for her sister but none other than her ex boyfriend as well, Liv has sworn off relationships for the rest of her life and has vowed to herself that she would never fall in love again!

Elliott is a workaholic trying to get himself into an attending position at the hospital he works at, he left his home and his family back in New York 7 months ago as he was trying to escape his addictions, but when the hospital he works at wants to see him have more of a personal life outside of work and reducing the maximum of hours that they can work down, he comes up with a plan that can help both him and Liv out. A fake dating relationship!

I really enjoyed the concept of this book, and although I have read my fair share of fake dating romances, I didn’t feel like it was just another book with the trope, there was so much more to it. I loved watching them go from strangers to lovers and everything in between. I also had some pure hatred towards livs mum as that woman would only ever look at situations on how their family would be perceived, she never cared for anyone but herself.

I would highly recommend anyone to read this book and it has made me want to read the first books in this series.

Thank you again to love notes pr and Rachel Donnan for this opportunity

[meesan]

ARC Review
Book: Breaking Wicked Rules by Rachel Donnan
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ (The website only allows 4 stars).

This was my first time reading anything by Rachel Donnan, and honestly, what a fun introduction to her writing! 💕 I went into Breaking Wicked Rules very much blind and without having read any of her other books, so I was a little nervous about jumping into a series, in the middle, but I found myself really enjoying Olivia and Elliott’s story.

The sunshine x shy dynamic was SO cute, and I absolutely loved the fake-dating setup, which is my favorite tropes when done correctly and it was done SPLENDID. Watching their relationship slowly shift from pretending to something much more genuine made the romance really fun to follow. I will say that it was slow in the beginning but the pacing picked up shortly after ten chapters or so for me.

Elliott had me smiling because I am a SUCKER for a he falls first romance and he made me want to swoon so BADDDDD. There was something so sweet about watching his feelings develop, and the chemistry between these two kept me invested. But also the mental health representation and how it was expressed and handled really grabbed my attention.

I also really appreciated that the story didn't rely on an unnecessary third-act breakup to create drama. Sometimes I just want to watch two people fall in love without wanting to throw the book across the room. And to be fair, I would rather scream than throw the book. Cannot inflict harm upon the book for anyt 😂

Overall, this was a sweet, entertaining, swoony romance that was easy to get lost in. As my first Rachel Donnan book, *Breaking Wicked Rules* definitely made me curious about her other books and the rest of the Wicked Dade series.

If you enjoy fake dating, sunshine x shy, slow burn, he falls first, and plenty of romantic chemistry, this one is definitely worth checking out! 💗

[Nikki]

Breaking Wicked Rules is a he falls first, mental health rep, sunshine fmc, shy fmc, open door spice, fake dating romance.

This was my first time reading a book by Rachel Donna and I really enjoyed it. Even though this is the third book in a series I didn’t feel lost because I hadn’t read the first two books. So with that I would say that this book can be read as a standalone.

I found both main characters Livi and Elliott to be likable and relatable. Livi is dealing with an ex-boyfriend that cheated on with her own sister, a toxic blackmailing mom and trying to save face by showing up to her ex- boyfriend and her sister’s wedding with a boyfriend. Which leads to Elliott. Elliott is trying to get a work promotion but he has to prove to his new boss (who doesn’t like him ) that he does have a life beside work. That he can have a work-life balance. Together Elliott and Livi decide to help each other with their situation but like all fake romance does their relationship stay fake the whole time or fake turn to rule?

One thing I like about this book is the mental health rep that comes up. I like how it was handled and talked about in the story. I felt that Rachel handled that subject with care and didn’t just lazily write about it. I also liked watching Livi and Elliot’s relationship develop throughout the book. Which leads to the pace of the story. The pace to me was good because I didn’t feel like it was too slow or too fast. It felt that if two people were going to have a fake relationship it would go at the pace that Livi and Elliot’s did. There are spicy scenes throughout the book but they over take the story. They are also written well and not cheesy.

Overall, Breaking Wicked Rules is a good reading. The main characters are good. The writing and pace of the story is good. The mental health rep is well written about. This is a story that from the first page to the last you are hooked.

[Sara-Catalina]

4.25/5⭐️

Dr D is not only good at fucking, he's also the most tortured sweetheart.

Addictions are another kind of hell, and what Elliot went through, it was purely heartbreaking. I never understood the addiction to gambling, but oh God, how destructive it can be. Sometimes worse than alcohol and drugs. And yet he did them all together.

This book can be triggering from this aspect. But it was so well done, I brushed over my discomfort and focused on the bond he created with Livi. And the fact that he trusted her with his secrets, really showed me they were meant for each other. Livi helped Elliot finally seek the help he needed to go to rehab, and Elliot helped Livi get out of the most toxic family ever.

They're soulmates, duh.

And Livi, oh man, I was so mad for her. How can she just brush over the fact that her own sister fucked her boyfriend and then just flaunted their relationship in her face?! The bitch would have been bald if it were me. Both her and the mother. Two toxic witches who liked Livi as their punching bag, and Livi had to push through it to keep her dream alive. I just think our girl did not blow up like she should have. I mean, yeah, she should have been mad at her cheating asshole of a boyfriend, but damn, her sister?! I have no words for this kind of betrayal.

And well, the mother, she is a completely different kind of evil. She tricked Livi into signing away her rights to her own company and then she held it over her head to manipulate and extort her into submission. Letting aside the body shaming and the narcissistic behavior.

But Livi and Elliot? They were perfect together. They were a second chance at life for each other and that was the most beautiful thing about this story.

So, a huge thank you to Love Notes PR and Rachel Donnan for the eARC, now I need to read the first and second book of this series. It got me invested now.

[Ashlie]

6 star series!

Okay, let me say this book took me longer than I care to admit to finish. I use the "assisted reader" function a lot while cleaning or cooking dinner, and the accent was a little too strong for me to easily follow at times.

That aside, this may have been the MOST relatable book in the series for me. Hi, I'm Ashlie, and I'm an addict. That connection alone hit hard, but adding in the storyline surrounding memory loss, something both of my grandparents have recently experienced, really got me in the feels.

I highlighted so much in this book, but the dedication is something I would literally tattoo on myself as a reminder:

"To everyone who is learning to live with a mind that once tried to break them, don’t forget to show yourself the kindness you deserve."

"A mind that once tried to break them"...that line is just perfectly said.

Peaches reminded me a lot of myself: people-pleasing, trying to fit her own life inside other people's boxes, never wanting to rock the boat while somehow always feeling like life is capsizing anyway. Livi really surprised me by the end. No spoilers!

Dr. D absolutely screams McHottie, and the little Grey's Anatomy references were a fun bonus. 😍 The doctor part made him hard for me to imagine shedding the white suit. Still, while Elliott struggles to see the good in himself, it's easy for the reader to see the wonderful man he can become. I'd be thrilled to have him in my corner.

All that being said, I highly recommend all three books, preferably in order, but if you're going to start with just one, make it this one. Absolutely amazing. 👏🏻📚🤩

[Katie Bookworm]

Book Review- Breaking Wicked Rules- Rachel Donnan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️📚

ARC read

Out 27th August 2026

Book 3 in The Wicked Dade Brother Series

This book carries trigger warnings intended for readers 18+ please take a look before reading🖤

I have read the 1st 2 Books in the series and they were amazing!👌🏻

This book was no different absolutely amazing on every level!😍

I do love the other brothers Jaxon and Fredrik but..... I'm sorry but Elliot Dade is 🥵🔥 definitely my favourite!

The most beautiful love story between the sunshine gorgeous event planner Livi and the shy but drop dead sexy doctor Elliott 🔥

Their relationship is so heart warming, the ways they care for and are there for each other when needed is just ❤️‍🔥 I am totally here for it!

Also so refreshing to read about a FMC who is curvy and has curly hair and also openly discussing mental health issues and vulnerability in MMC I really liked the representation in this book🙌🏼

They are my favourite couple so far! ✨️

If you like :

💕Fake Dating
💕He Falls 1st
💕Mental Health Rep
💕Sunshine FMC
💕Shy MMC
💕Slow Burn
💕Open Door Spice

Then this is the book for you!

A fun, exciting fast paced story that is so gorgeous you won't want it to end! I definitely didn't!✨️

And gorgeously spicy it will make your toes cur the slow burn is so worth it!!l🥵🔥

Plenty of time to catch up with the other Dade brothers before this release!🤩

Thank you Rachel for letting me ARC read for you! It was an absolute pleasure 🥰

💫🤍💫

[Georgina]

I absolutely loved Elliot and Livi’s relationship! This book tackles some heavy topics, so I’d definitely recommend reading the trigger warnings beforehand. That being said, I thought these themes were handled incredibly well. Watching these characters navigate their vulnerabilities and begin to heal was genuinely so heartwarming and wholesome. The representation of mental health struggles felt authentic, and I really appreciated how much care was given to their individual journeys.

Elliot in particular completely stole my heart. The way he stood up for Livi and supported her, especially that little moment of switching plates during the family meal, was so sweet. It was such a simple gesture, but it said so much about how attentive he was.

Elliot needs to convince his boss that he had a life outside of work and to stop working 80-hour weeks at the hospital, while Livi needs to get her mother off her back. What starts as a fake relationship slowly develops into something so much more, with how they relied on each other and wanted to do better for each other and themselves.

I loved both of these characters and their kindness, compassion, and dedication to the people around them. Their relationship felt so genuine, and the slow burn made the payoff even more rewarding. And the spicy scenes were the perfect cherry on top. The mouth on that man had me melting🥵

I adored this book, and I need to go back and read the first two books in the series!

[Laura Oliver]

📚 Breaking Wicked Rules ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I was very lucky to receive an ARC from LoveNotesPR

This is book three in the Wicked Dade series. I have not previously read the first two books, and didn't feel at a disadvantage.

One of my favourite things about this book was the way the characters were written. They felt easy to connect with, and I really enjoyed seeing their relationship grow from pretending to something much more genuine. There were plenty of sweet and funny moments alongside some more emotional themes, which gave the story a nice balance.

I really enjoyed the fake-dating storyline and watching the relationship between the characters develop throughout the book. The slow-burn romance worked really well, and I loved the contrast between the sunshine FMC and the shy MMC.

I also really appreciated the mental health representation and the way it was incorporated into the characters' stories. And as someone who appreciates a romance without the obligatory third-act breakup, I was very happy with that! 😂

Overall, this was a really enjoyable romance with great chemistry, lovable characters and plenty of moments that made me smile. 💕

📖 If you love:
✨ Fake dating
✨ Slow burn
✨ Sunshine FMC × shy MMC
✨ He falls first
✨ Mental health representation
✨ No third-act breakup
✨ Romance with plenty of heart

Thank you for the ARC, Rachel

[Janet Gonzalez]

Breaking Wicked Rules was such an emotional and addictive read! I really loved how raw and realistic Elliott’s struggle with addiction was. It wasn’t romanticized or brushed aside—it showed how addiction can affect every part of someone’s life, from family and friendships to careers and relationships. Watching Elliott fight through his struggles and learn that asking for help doesn’t make him weak made his character development so meaningful.

I also really loved Livi and Elliott together. They both had their own battles and insecurities, but they helped each other realize that they were worthy of love, support, and happiness. I especially loved that neither character’s healing or growth depended entirely on the other. Their chemistry, banter, and tenderness made their relationship so easy to root for. ❤️

With fake dating, close proximity, family drama, emotional moments, and plenty of chemistry, this book kept me turning the pages. There were definitely some heavy topics, especially addiction and toxic family dynamics, so keep that in mind going in.

Overall, this was a heartfelt, emotional, and entertaining addition to the series. Elliott and Livi’s story definitely pulled me in and reminded me that sometimes the people who help us heal are the ones who simply remind us that we are worthy. 💕

[Jen Bean]

What worked for me: This is going to sound weird…but my favorite part of Breaking Wicked Rules was the raw, real representation of addiction and how it impacts every part of a person’s life. Family, friends, romance, career—Elliott’s struggles came with setbacks in every part of his life. For the majority of the book, he’s fighting cravings and urges and fears of what asking for help will do to his future. I also loved that his relationship with Livi allowed him to see that he wasn’t a failure and that asking for help is a sign of strength, but his character development isn’t solely based on it. And on the flip side of that, Elliott helped Livi realize that she’s worthy of love, success, and people who support her—as opposed to the toxic family members who tried to convince her otherwise. But he wasn’t the only source of support and encouragement in her life.

What might not work for you: There is a heavy amount of addiction representation and portrayal of toxic family dynamics, so if that is something that is difficult for you to read about, Breaking Wicked Rules might not be for you. Also, there are some spicy scenes that I guess could be skipped, but doing so would take away from the love and tenderness that Livi and Elliott share.

[Charlotte Tait]

I receieved an ARC copy of this book and was honoured to be allowed a first glance at this fantastic book!
I have read each of Rachel's books and am a complete fan of the world she has created here in the Wicked Dade series. Once again, she did not disappoint!
I thought the idea of Elliott's story and arc to be of extreme interest, looking into how he could be the softer of the two characters and battling those inner demons. Elliott was definitely different from the others and I think that is what makes this story so special. He was completely different from Jaxon and Frederic! His character was softer and more intune with raw and deeper demons that he tackled along the way and he was much softer (apart from when he took charge in those spicy scenes 🔥)
Livi was a fireball and I appreciate that she doesn't apologise for her character by the end, learning and growing into herself. I liked that we were able to read about a more fiery and bold FMC and a softer MMC - it was a nice mix up!
Another great job and I liked the sneaky appearances of the brothers and their partners! Can't wait for the next 💖

[Alexia]

Many thanks to the author of Breaking Wicked Vows for the early Arc. I really enjoyed it this book. It's a fake dating romance with plenty of emotional depth. You've got a doctor, rebuilding his life after some serious struggles, and an event organiser trying to break free from her toxic family. When their worlds collide and they agree to fake a relationship, it slowly turns into something real. What I really liked was the character growth.

You have Elliot, battling with all his urges and wanting to be better but not accepting help.

Also we have Livi, a very strong independent and funny woman, trying to make it despite all the betrayal and hurt she endured.


They both show up with baggage, but watching them help each other heal made the romance feel earned. The chemistry felt natural, the emotional beats landed, and the spice was balanced really well with the story. They learned to trust again, to love again, to realise that there is still hope out there.

So, if you like fake dating to lovers trope where she falls but he falls harder, I think you should definitely add this to your TBR. For me, easy, four point five stars. I can't wait to see what everyone else thinks.

[Brooke McLeod]

I’ve genuinely never read a book with a storyline quite like Elliot’s before, and I have to say, I LOVED it. His career, his personal journey and everything surrounding his story felt so different from anything I’ve read before. And honestly… just everything Elliot. 🤤

Elliot and Livi are the CUTEST, and I’m so glad they got their happy ending. Their relationship and the character development throughout this book were beautiful.

Although, I would absolutely love an update on Daniel and Livi’s sister. A-holes. 😂 Mostly because I’m hoping they fell off the edge of the earth.

I’m usually someone who loves a third-act breakup, but this book proved I definitely don’t need one to feel all the emotions. That little piece towards the end still had me crying, and I was so invested in these two.

This book kept me wanting more the entire way through. I never found myself bored or wanting to skim – even the bridging chapters kept me interested and added something to the story.

I loved watching Elliot and Livi’s story unfold, I loved their growth, and did I mention I loved Elliot? Because… Elliot. 🫠

Such a beautiful read, and one I’m so glad I got the chance to read as an ARC. ❤️

[Misty McQueary]

Thank you so much to Love Notes PR for the ARC on Breaking Wicked Rules.

This book! I wasn’t 100% sure if I was going to be able to read it once I started. Elliott has been fighting his demons and has being dealing with addiction. Anywhere from gambling, to alcohol, to popping pills. This can be a very sensitive subject and may not be written well. Rachel Donnan did such a good job. I didn’t have any issues reading this subject and was able to get past it.
Livi is a strong, independent female but also has her trauma from the family she was raised in. Her sister is marrying Livi’s ex-bf and her mother is blackmailing her to plan their wedding. 😬💔 The two MC characters meet and along the way decide to give fake dating a chance to help each other in one way or another.

I LOVED this book. I was rooting for both characters. I was rooting for Elliott to be able to overcome his addiction and find the help he truly needed. I was rooting for Livi to be able to standup to her family and put herself first. And of course, I was rooting for the two MC to be able to realize their true feelings even if they wouldn’t admit it to themselves and be able to work things out in the end.

This book had so much good stuff. There was banter, the chemistry, the spice. It was all 🔥. I have not read the first two books in this series but now I plan to! I cannot wait to read more of Rachel Donnan’s stories! HIGHLY recommend this book!

[Hannah]

I recieved a copy of Breaking Wicked Rules as an ARC review copy and thoroughly enjoyed delving into the world of Elliot and Livi.

Rachel Donnan creates a beautifully rounded story, capturing the serendipity of two people coming together at a time when they don't realise they need each other.

We have Elliot who has run away and escaped his problems and is hiding from his family, desperately trying to right his wrongs by throwing himself into his work as a doctor. And Livi, who is bound to her over-bearing family despite having to put up with their belittling and constant reminders of a past she just wants to escape.

A chance meeting catapults them into a scheme of fake dating which soon has them both realising that what they have both been running from isn't so hard to face when you have someone by your side to hold your hand.

If you love a fake dating, slow burn with a spicy ending then put this book on your TBR. The characters are well rounded and its a pleasure to read the transformative journey they both go on.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

[Celine]

This is book three in the Wicked Dade Series and follows Elliott and Livi. They met at the hospital where he is a doctor and she was a patient. They have an instant attraction but don’t act on it. When they see each other again they get to know each other a little more and decide to fake date to help each other out.

Elliot has some troubles he doesn’t really want any help with.
Livi’s sister is engaged to her ex-boyfriend and now she has to plan their wedding.
Livi is a sunshine whirlwind, who doesn’t take BS from anybody. Dealing with her family isn’t a walk in the park, and now she has Elliott to help her through all family dinners. They both now have each other to lean on, which is needed for both characters to heal.

A bit irritating was the use of French and Spanish, as I had to translate a lot of the words, and that stopped my reading flow at times. Aside from that the book was so cute! I love the relationship they both have and hope to see them in future books!

Thank you Love Notes PR and Rachel Donan for an eARC! 🤍

[Gia]

𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒⁣
⁣
When the fake dating trope turns out to have been real feelings all along just know– I will eat that shit up every time. ⁣
⁣
This book has so many mental health concerns and complex family dynamics. Genuinely, Livi’s family was so evil and abusive the entire book they were irredeemable. We cheered when our queen learned what a boundary was. The way anxiety was depicted in this book was very accurate. However, as a therapist, I just gotta point out that no therapist on earth would take money in advance for sessions. It’s just not a thing we do. Also with addiction, a one month treatment stay is also not realistic. I wish it was longer in the book. I also wished the epilogue was longer too. Other than that, I will say there was such good mental health representation in this book. I genuinely enjoyed it. ⁣
⁣
If you love a romance with mental health rep, spice, and no third act breakup, this one is for you!⁣
⁣
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗣𝗥 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆!

[Tasha]

Breaking Wicked Rules by Rachel Donnan is another fun and addictive addition to the Wicked Dade series. I really enjoyed the chemistry between the characters and the way the story balanced romance, drama, and plenty of steamy moments. The characters have strong personalities, and their emotional connection kept me invested from beginning to end. Donnan did a great job creating characters who are flawed but easy to root for, while keeping the pacing moving enough that I never felt bored. There are plenty of twists, tension, and relationship drama to keep the pages turning. If you enjoy spicy romance, morally gray characters, strong chemistry, and stories with plenty of emotional intensity, this is definitely one to add to your reading list. Overall, Breaking Wicked Rules was an entertaining read and a great continuation of the Wicked Dade world.

I received an ARC copy from Love Notes PR. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel