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Make It Hurt
"I told you I'd put you back in your f*cking place. When I'm done with you, I promise there won't be an ounce of fight left in your body. I can't wait to see what it looks like."
I messed up. I should have hit him with my car that night.
For two years, my stepbrother and his friends have made my life hell. The innocent, naïve girl I was when I first arrived in Aurora Cove is nothing but a distant memory. I’ve done what I had to do to survive, and it changed me.
Unfortunately, some things never change.
West Pine University was supposed to be different. Instead, I ended up right back where I never wanted to be again—at Elias’s feet, begging him to save me.
But Elias’s help comes with conditions. I’ll be indebted to all of them—Dax, Nolan, and Elias—without limits. And if I don’t do what they want, they can take it back at any time.
Dax wants to make me weak for him. Elias won’t stop until he breaks me. And Nolan…I don’t think he wants anything. I don’t think there’s anything left behind his dark eyes.
Still, I need them. If anyone finds out what I did, my life is over. And someone knows. I’m being followed, watched. They’re the only ones who can keep me safe.
But their brand of salvation is going to ruin me, too.
I messed up. I should have hit him with my car that night.
For two years, my stepbrother and his friends have made my life hell. The innocent, naïve girl I was when I first arrived in Aurora Cove is nothing but a distant memory. I’ve done what I had to do to survive, and it changed me.
Unfortunately, some things never change.
West Pine University was supposed to be different. Instead, I ended up right back where I never wanted to be again—at Elias’s feet, begging him to save me.
But Elias’s help comes with conditions. I’ll be indebted to all of them—Dax, Nolan, and Elias—without limits. And if I don’t do what they want, they can take it back at any time.
Dax wants to make me weak for him. Elias won’t stop until he breaks me. And Nolan…I don’t think he wants anything. I don’t think there’s anything left behind his dark eyes.
Still, I need them. If anyone finds out what I did, my life is over. And someone knows. I’m being followed, watched. They’re the only ones who can keep me safe.
But their brand of salvation is going to ruin me, too.
515 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2026
230 people are currently reading
1236 people want to read
About the author
Elle Mitchell
12 books621 followersKnown as the (mostly benevolent) Queen of Angst, Elle Mitchell writes new adult contemporary romance ranging from shades of grey to morally pitch black with a hint of taboo. A mix of plot and spice, her books follow flawed, relatable characters as they rage against the machine or struggle against the darker parts of humanity and themselves. They’re messy—like real life—and emotional.
She can’t promise that all her books will depict what a healthy relationship should look like at every turn. She rejects purity themes. The best she can do is promise an eventual HEA when it’s all said and done.
When she isn’t reading or writing, it’s unlikely you’ll find her anywhere. She’s probably at home with her family, minding her own business.
Find her on IG and TT: @ellemitchellbooks
She can’t promise that all her books will depict what a healthy relationship should look like at every turn. She rejects purity themes. The best she can do is promise an eventual HEA when it’s all said and done.
When she isn’t reading or writing, it’s unlikely you’ll find her anywhere. She’s probably at home with her family, minding her own business.
Find her on IG and TT: @ellemitchellbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 287 reviews
March 12, 2026
[⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Star Review...] ☀︎ MAKE IT HURT ☀︎ Is the first full length bully stepbrother romance book in the (West Pine Bullies) series by author Elle Mitchell.
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
Tropes:
❥ MMFM (Why Choose)
❥ Stepbrother
❥ Bully
❥ College setting
❥ Hockey
❥ Stalker
❥ Forced proximity
Yes please.. Make this hurt.. I'm a huge fan of stepbrother/bully romance books and seeing this pop up on my radar it was right up my alley..
This was an manipulative addictive angsty bully romance, I don’t think I warmed up fully to any of the guys, other than Nolan, the other two didn’t really have any redeeming qualities, they both controlled her, played upon her emotions, the too and fro, the bullying tendencies, this was like a game of table tennis ping ponging with the angst.
Dax liked his toys broken so that they relied on him.
Nolan, didn’t like to be touched, he struggled with depression and didn’t let anyone near other than Dax.
Elijah took bullying to a whole new level, a love hate obsession, he liked to be the one in control pulling all the strings.
Saige, had been used, abused, discarded, by the games these boys played. I wished she was stronger, I wished she’d fought back. I wished she'd had a back bone..
Out one night partying on her first night on campus she meets this guy who hates Elijah just as much as she did, maybe more so, one thing led to another and they entered the guys residence and trashed the place, long story short the guy she entered with didn't not come back out alive, all of them including Saige got rid of the body. This played perfectly into Elijah's hands, now she's at their beck and call and she can't say no because they have the body to hold over her head. .
Then dead animals entails are left in her car and her dorm room, messages start popping up suggesting they know what she did. Best case scenario is that she moves in with the guys so that they can keep an eye on her and plus it gives them access to her and what they demand.
She feels like she's being watched, stalked, she sees a man all in black a few times wearing a mask, is it another of Elijah's games or is someone really out to get her..
📚'𝙼𝚈 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙾𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝚂'📚 can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
Tropes:
❥ MMFM (Why Choose)
❥ Stepbrother
❥ Bully
❥ College setting
❥ Hockey
❥ Stalker
❥ Forced proximity
Yes please.. Make this hurt.. I'm a huge fan of stepbrother/bully romance books and seeing this pop up on my radar it was right up my alley..
This was an manipulative addictive angsty bully romance, I don’t think I warmed up fully to any of the guys, other than Nolan, the other two didn’t really have any redeeming qualities, they both controlled her, played upon her emotions, the too and fro, the bullying tendencies, this was like a game of table tennis ping ponging with the angst.
Dax liked his toys broken so that they relied on him.
Nolan, didn’t like to be touched, he struggled with depression and didn’t let anyone near other than Dax.
Elijah took bullying to a whole new level, a love hate obsession, he liked to be the one in control pulling all the strings.
Saige, had been used, abused, discarded, by the games these boys played. I wished she was stronger, I wished she’d fought back. I wished she'd had a back bone..
Out one night partying on her first night on campus she meets this guy who hates Elijah just as much as she did, maybe more so, one thing led to another and they entered the guys residence and trashed the place, long story short the guy she entered with didn't not come back out alive, all of them including Saige got rid of the body. This played perfectly into Elijah's hands, now she's at their beck and call and she can't say no because they have the body to hold over her head. .
Then dead animals entails are left in her car and her dorm room, messages start popping up suggesting they know what she did. Best case scenario is that she moves in with the guys so that they can keep an eye on her and plus it gives them access to her and what they demand.
She feels like she's being watched, stalked, she sees a man all in black a few times wearing a mask, is it another of Elijah's games or is someone really out to get her..
Did not finish
March 16, 2026dnf 30%
the mmc literally shoves a bar of soap down her throat??? 😃 elle i love u but what are we doing here
the mmc literally shoves a bar of soap down her throat??? 😃 elle i love u but what are we doing here
March 7, 2026
4/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
- Why choose romance (MMFM)
- Obsessed step brother
- Dark college romance
- Bully romance
- Stalker
GAH DAMN. Elle did it again! If she writes it, I'm reading it.
The plot and the twists had me gasping for air. I loved the characters and this sh*t was SPICYYYY.
Tropes & what to expect:
- Why choose romance (MMFM)
- Obsessed step brother
- Dark college romance
- Bully romance
- Stalker
GAH DAMN. Elle did it again! If she writes it, I'm reading it.
The plot and the twists had me gasping for air. I loved the characters and this sh*t was SPICYYYY.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew I was in trouble from the opening scene. This book wastes absolutely no time dragging you straight into its chaos and then relentlessly tightening the screws. The tone is intense and unsettling, only to be undercut by the occasional one-liner that made me laugh out loud (which somehow makes everything feel even darker 👀). The forced proximity escalates in layers, the stakes keep climbing, and the sense of being watched never lets up.
What really makes this shine, though, are the characters and their dynamics (very on brand for Elle Mitchell). The heroine feels worn down by life in a way that’s painfully familiar. But she's someone who keeps pushing forward even when she’s exhausted and terrified, always hovering just shy of her breaking point. Each MMC brings something distinct to the table. Dax is funny and sweet with a dark, controlling edge that flares unexpectedly. Nolan is quiet, disciplined, and devastatingly wounded, showing his care in the smallest, most meaningful ways that make it the most steady of the group. Elias is cruel and volatile, but just vulnerable enough that you understand where his rage comes from and his desperate need to be chosen. Their relationships with each other and with the heroine are messy, conditional, and deeply human. The found-family moments hit especially hard because they’re always shadowed by the knowledge that none of this is clearly defined or truly secure.
The romance is high-spice (possibly Elle’s spiciest yet), but it works for these characters and the circumstances they’re trapped in. There’s enough emotional depth that the spice never feels like it replaces real relationship development. I loved how affection sneaks in through teasing, caretaking, and quiet sacrifices, even when no one is brave enough to name what they’re feeling. Things don't feel settled with the romance(s) just yet, giving it room to grow in the next book. While I occasionally wished for a bit more emotional variety from the heroine and had a few minor hang-ups, none of that dulled the experience for me. This is a dark, twisted, emotionally charged story that I cannot stop thinking about (especially with that cliffhanger ending). I keep having to remind myself this is the current book I’m reading because I’m still so mentally stuck inside it. An easy five stars.
What really makes this shine, though, are the characters and their dynamics (very on brand for Elle Mitchell). The heroine feels worn down by life in a way that’s painfully familiar. But she's someone who keeps pushing forward even when she’s exhausted and terrified, always hovering just shy of her breaking point. Each MMC brings something distinct to the table. Dax is funny and sweet with a dark, controlling edge that flares unexpectedly. Nolan is quiet, disciplined, and devastatingly wounded, showing his care in the smallest, most meaningful ways that make it the most steady of the group. Elias is cruel and volatile, but just vulnerable enough that you understand where his rage comes from and his desperate need to be chosen. Their relationships with each other and with the heroine are messy, conditional, and deeply human. The found-family moments hit especially hard because they’re always shadowed by the knowledge that none of this is clearly defined or truly secure.
The romance is high-spice (possibly Elle’s spiciest yet), but it works for these characters and the circumstances they’re trapped in. There’s enough emotional depth that the spice never feels like it replaces real relationship development. I loved how affection sneaks in through teasing, caretaking, and quiet sacrifices, even when no one is brave enough to name what they’re feeling. Things don't feel settled with the romance(s) just yet, giving it room to grow in the next book. While I occasionally wished for a bit more emotional variety from the heroine and had a few minor hang-ups, none of that dulled the experience for me. This is a dark, twisted, emotionally charged story that I cannot stop thinking about (especially with that cliffhanger ending). I keep having to remind myself this is the current book I’m reading because I’m still so mentally stuck inside it. An easy five stars.
February 10, 2026
“Dax gave me an 0rgasm, a Xanax, and told me it wasn't my fault. That's more than anyone else has done for me in a while.”
"I've already left a permanent mark on you. Maybe it isn't a good one, but there's nothing you can do about it now, is there? I don't even think you want to. I think you love the scar."
I don’t know that I have found the words strong enough to describe how much I loved this book. I sacrificed precious, precious sleep because I was physically unable to put this book down.
Unfortunately, I too am in love with all of these men. They all have such unique qualities about them that immediately had me swooning. Elias- such a jerk… a beautiful, Alphahole jerk. He’s just got that quality about him that makes me think ‘I can fix him’. Dax’s soft spot for Saige had even me feeling all Stockholm-y. And don’t even get me started on Nolan. I love that he is slowly breaking all of his rules for her, finding comfort that he has historically only found in Dax.
Now Saige… this poor girl has been through more torment and heartbreak (mostly at the hands of Elias) than even the strongest willed women could survive. Despite it feeling like quite literally the entire world is against her, she continues to persevere through every difficulty thrown her way.
I truly loved this book with every bit of my heart and soul and I am dying for book two so I can find out what the heck is going on after that painful cliffhanger!
What’s in the book?
Why choose
Bully
Stepbrother
College
Stalker
Hockey
*ends on a cliffhanger
"I've already left a permanent mark on you. Maybe it isn't a good one, but there's nothing you can do about it now, is there? I don't even think you want to. I think you love the scar."
I don’t know that I have found the words strong enough to describe how much I loved this book. I sacrificed precious, precious sleep because I was physically unable to put this book down.
Unfortunately, I too am in love with all of these men. They all have such unique qualities about them that immediately had me swooning. Elias- such a jerk… a beautiful, Alphahole jerk. He’s just got that quality about him that makes me think ‘I can fix him’. Dax’s soft spot for Saige had even me feeling all Stockholm-y. And don’t even get me started on Nolan. I love that he is slowly breaking all of his rules for her, finding comfort that he has historically only found in Dax.
Now Saige… this poor girl has been through more torment and heartbreak (mostly at the hands of Elias) than even the strongest willed women could survive. Despite it feeling like quite literally the entire world is against her, she continues to persevere through every difficulty thrown her way.
I truly loved this book with every bit of my heart and soul and I am dying for book two so I can find out what the heck is going on after that painful cliffhanger!
What’s in the book?
Why choose
Bully
Stepbrother
College
Stalker
Hockey
*ends on a cliffhanger
March 15, 2026
I knew when I started this book that it was going to drag me by my hair and that’s EXACTLY what it did. I went through like 50 different emotions while reading this book.. i mean it’s exactly what it said it was.. a dark why choose bully romance, and yes it was hella brutal at times, the mmcs are downright diabolical & my heart hurt for Saige. But, i will say that that i appreciated the duality and struggles we got to see/know of each character. But then you add in the mysterious stalker and danger aspect to the plot??? I simply couldn’t put this down. Ugh, this was a wild ride and obviously spicy as hell.. Then that cliffhanger??? OMG.
Definitely check your triggers when going into this one!
Definitely check your triggers when going into this one!
February 21, 2026
The spice in this book 10/10🥵🥵. Besides the spice the characters were so perfectly all rough around the edges. I love how much depth each character had and that no one had a cookie cutter story. There was always so much more to everyone. This why choose story makes you feel all kinds of emotions. Saige our FMC, i could taste her frustration with the guys and with everything she endured because of them. You really shouldn’t mess with a girl who doesn’t have anything to lose. The MMCs are all individually unique but all are in someway or another toxically waving their red flags but we love them for it. When i thought i had the story figured out, boom, something would happen that made me go back to the drawing board. This is book one of a series and i can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
**My take on the guys.**
Nolan is so far my favorite. I loved Elias in the beginning because he made me laugh but that changed. I just like him now. He has some groveling to do. Dax played me like a fiddle so fuck him. lol but maybe not. I have a little candle of hope for him.
**My take on the guys.**
Nolan is so far my favorite. I loved Elias in the beginning because he made me laugh but that changed. I just like him now. He has some groveling to do. Dax played me like a fiddle so fuck him. lol but maybe not. I have a little candle of hope for him.
March 10, 2026
Plot: 4/5 • Spice: 4/5 ———-> Elias absolutely despises his stepsister. He takes all his aggression out on Saige. He tortures her for years. You’d think he hated her with the things he does, but in reality he’s infatuated with her. They wind up at the same college…
Along with Elias’ best friends, Dax and Nolan, they save her after finding her trashing the inside their house. Elias makes a deal with her. She must bend to his every command. Including moving into their home. Basically becoming his maid and homework helper. Along the way Dax and Nolan, who are basically together, start to become attached to Saige. Elias still making her life miserable along the way.
Saige receives texts and photos, has her car and dorm room vandalized. She has a stalker. The guys come in and kee her under their protection. Turns out it hits a little closer to home than expected. I think? 🤔🤔🤔
Ends on a cliffy. Was it Elias? Was it someone else? She ran, but we don’t know who else it could be after Elias’ revelation. 😵💫
Along with Elias’ best friends, Dax and Nolan, they save her after finding her trashing the inside their house. Elias makes a deal with her. She must bend to his every command. Including moving into their home. Basically becoming his maid and homework helper. Along the way Dax and Nolan, who are basically together, start to become attached to Saige. Elias still making her life miserable along the way.
Saige receives texts and photos, has her car and dorm room vandalized. She has a stalker. The guys come in and kee her under their protection. Turns out it hits a little closer to home than expected. I think? 🤔🤔🤔
Ends on a cliffy. Was it Elias? Was it someone else? She ran, but we don’t know who else it could be after Elias’ revelation. 😵💫
March 16, 2026
Devoured
I devoured this book in less than a day. The twisted games the secrets, just everything was so good. And who doesn't love a good why choose. I'm not saying much else because I want to wait til the 2nd book comes out next month. Because d*MN that cliffhanger.
I love Elles writing and this book did not dissapoint
I devoured this book in less than a day. The twisted games the secrets, just everything was so good. And who doesn't love a good why choose. I'm not saying much else because I want to wait til the 2nd book comes out next month. Because d*MN that cliffhanger.
I love Elles writing and this book did not dissapoint
March 8, 2026
The vibe of this first book is the perfect opening to a new series! I am so excited for where this series is going to go! Check your triggers as always - content warnings 💯
Make It Hurt has everything I love in a dark romance. The dynamics between Saige and Elias immediately drew me in but I was completely blindsided by how much I love Dax and Nolan!!! I would go to war for these two! I have a feeling that these two boys are going to ruin me and I am here for it!
I am very simple. In a series like this - I want toxic. I want my heart broken by boyfriends who have boyfriends and spice that makes me sweat. I fear this series will check all these boxes! I can’t wait !! 😜
Make It Hurt has everything I love in a dark romance. The dynamics between Saige and Elias immediately drew me in but I was completely blindsided by how much I love Dax and Nolan!!! I would go to war for these two! I have a feeling that these two boys are going to ruin me and I am here for it!
I am very simple. In a series like this - I want toxic. I want my heart broken by boyfriends who have boyfriends and spice that makes me sweat. I fear this series will check all these boxes! I can’t wait !! 😜
March 14, 2026
"To everyone who was delighted to learn that in some circumstances, when a boy pulls your hair, it does mean he likes you."
I've never read a bully romance before and although I found this a really hard read in places, I just couldnt put it down 🫠 It was the 1st book I've read by Elle & it definitely won't be my last!
💀 Stalker
💀 Why Choose? MFMM
💀 Step Brother
💀 Hockey
💀 Trauma
*Check your triggers before reading this one - it covers some hard subjects & areas ⚠️
Review -
Okay so this one does just as the title states - it hurts! 💔 It's a harsh, emotionally brutal, possession turns to obsession, morally dark grey, bully, enimies to lovers, unhinged college romance in all its forms ... & I was here for every deranged second of it 🙈
It had me sad, shocked, devastated, giggling & kicking my feet with my fist in my mouth - the tension set within the first 2 chapters just follows through the whole read ... with the added slight mystery stalker sideline keeping the intrigue high too 💀
I liked that it was written from all 4 characters POVs. For the MMCs the menacing trio that is Elias, Dax & Nolan, this really helped deepen the understanding of each of them and their own internal struggles - which helped level my moral compass in places 🖤
I mean we can NOT excuse their actions - the way they manipulate, control & emotionally play with FMC Saige is not, okay ... but there were moments when you just couldnt help but go soft for them, as their inner monologue lays bare each of their own internal traumas & turmoil ❤️🩹
FMC Saige a ball of sunshine crushed to dust 💀 she just seems to be wrong place, wrong choice, wrong time in nearly every situation 🙈 the emotional manipulation leaves her so vunerable & raw - for me it made it a tough read at times! l'm just now holding hope that the feelings & emotional shift in her isn't ruined by those last couple of chapters 🫠
Elle definitely does not write for the faint of heart, but she thrust me into a new brutal world where love can be harsh, painful and full of lies & obsession - the cliff on this ending was a HIGH one! 🤯 I have questions & just hope the wait for book 2 isn't too long already!! 🤞
I've never read a bully romance before and although I found this a really hard read in places, I just couldnt put it down 🫠 It was the 1st book I've read by Elle & it definitely won't be my last!
💀 Stalker
💀 Why Choose? MFMM
💀 Step Brother
💀 Hockey
💀 Trauma
*Check your triggers before reading this one - it covers some hard subjects & areas ⚠️
Review -
Okay so this one does just as the title states - it hurts! 💔 It's a harsh, emotionally brutal, possession turns to obsession, morally dark grey, bully, enimies to lovers, unhinged college romance in all its forms ... & I was here for every deranged second of it 🙈
It had me sad, shocked, devastated, giggling & kicking my feet with my fist in my mouth - the tension set within the first 2 chapters just follows through the whole read ... with the added slight mystery stalker sideline keeping the intrigue high too 💀
I liked that it was written from all 4 characters POVs. For the MMCs the menacing trio that is Elias, Dax & Nolan, this really helped deepen the understanding of each of them and their own internal struggles - which helped level my moral compass in places 🖤
I mean we can NOT excuse their actions - the way they manipulate, control & emotionally play with FMC Saige is not, okay ... but there were moments when you just couldnt help but go soft for them, as their inner monologue lays bare each of their own internal traumas & turmoil ❤️🩹
FMC Saige a ball of sunshine crushed to dust 💀 she just seems to be wrong place, wrong choice, wrong time in nearly every situation 🙈 the emotional manipulation leaves her so vunerable & raw - for me it made it a tough read at times! l'm just now holding hope that the feelings & emotional shift in her isn't ruined by those last couple of chapters 🫠
Elle definitely does not write for the faint of heart, but she thrust me into a new brutal world where love can be harsh, painful and full of lies & obsession - the cliff on this ending was a HIGH one! 🤯 I have questions & just hope the wait for book 2 isn't too long already!! 🤞
March 11, 2026
Every time I go to read a book by Elle Mitchell, I know I’m gonna love it. There’s no question about that but I always wonder if it’s gonna hurt as much as it did last time. Yes. Time and time again yes it hurts in the best of ways. It’s an addictive way that I can’t get enough of. She creates worlds, develops characters and writes stories that hit full impact in the feels. In all seriousness, this book grabs you by the throat right from the start and seeps its way into your mind body and soul. The opening scene drags you straight into the depths of the characters darkness and keeps you gasping. The intense toxic dynamic just keeps getting harder and harder to deny yet like a drug you don’t want to stop taking it all in. Every moment, laughing, crying, fuming, worrying, sobbing, once again the queen of angst keeps it coming. Nolan, lé sigh, iykyk my newest heart inhabitant how… why… Elle !??!?! Each man brings something of his own unique self good and bad to the mix and it’s delicious. This story is just so well written and the spice… holy hotness. Honestly get yourself a fan and glass of ice cold something cause you’re gonna need it. The bits of affection that slip in through the sexy af dark torment and heart hurting twisted emotion is overwhelming and I love every single moment. As sick and toxic as their relationship is, tell me, why do I wanna hang out with them? What does that say about me? Fuck if I know but what it does say is Elle’s books are masterfully written and you need to go read this right now. Check the TWs first as they are there to ensure this book is right for you. For me it’s a HARD YES. Oh and thanks for another mind fuck of a cliffy. Yeah book two needed asap.
March 15, 2026
Read the book. You’ll thank me later
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Make It Hurt by Elle Mitchell had me hooked from the very beginning and did not let go for a second. The tension, the push and pull, the emotional torment—it was everything I wanted and more.
The story follows Saige, whose life flips upside down when her mom suddenly marries and she moves in with her new stepfather… and meets her new stepbrother, Elias. Their first encounter is completely unexpected, and once Elias realizes who she is, he makes her life a living nightmare. The animosity, the tension, and the constant power struggle between them is intense. Then he leaves for college, and just when Saige thinks she might get some distance from the chaos, fate throws them back together when she ends up attending the same college.
From there, things spiral in the best possible way. Saige’s world becomes tangled up with Elias and his two best friends, and the dynamic between all of them is addictive. This isn’t just a typical bully why-choose romance—it goes deeper. The suspense kept building chapter after chapter, and the emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested.
And that ending… brutal. The cliffhanger left me staring at the last page like, “You cannot be serious right now.” I’m frustrated in the best way because now I need the next book.
I devoured this on Kindle Unlimited and loved it so much that I’m immediately buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. If you love intense bully romance, complicated relationships, and a story packed with tension and suspense, this one is absolutely worth the read. Easy 6✨read!
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Make It Hurt by Elle Mitchell had me hooked from the very beginning and did not let go for a second. The tension, the push and pull, the emotional torment—it was everything I wanted and more.
The story follows Saige, whose life flips upside down when her mom suddenly marries and she moves in with her new stepfather… and meets her new stepbrother, Elias. Their first encounter is completely unexpected, and once Elias realizes who she is, he makes her life a living nightmare. The animosity, the tension, and the constant power struggle between them is intense. Then he leaves for college, and just when Saige thinks she might get some distance from the chaos, fate throws them back together when she ends up attending the same college.
From there, things spiral in the best possible way. Saige’s world becomes tangled up with Elias and his two best friends, and the dynamic between all of them is addictive. This isn’t just a typical bully why-choose romance—it goes deeper. The suspense kept building chapter after chapter, and the emotional rollercoaster had me completely invested.
And that ending… brutal. The cliffhanger left me staring at the last page like, “You cannot be serious right now.” I’m frustrated in the best way because now I need the next book.
I devoured this on Kindle Unlimited and loved it so much that I’m immediately buying a physical copy for my bookshelf. If you love intense bully romance, complicated relationships, and a story packed with tension and suspense, this one is absolutely worth the read. Easy 6✨read!
February 21, 2026
OMG I AM OBSESSED. AHHHHHHH. What a fucking time I had omg. Elle is the QUEEN of vibey reads. I literally had the best, most spicyyyy time. 👏🏻
I was hooked from the start! The pace is fast but there is some slow burn with some characters vs others and I LOVED THAT. All three mmcs are different - and I love that in a why choose bc it is so important.
First off, I liked Saige a lot. It was interesting to really see how her character kept changing with everything going on - she was true to her emotions and the “rain cloud” reference hit hard for me! Eep.
Nolan. MY BABY BOY AND MY OBSESSION. Vampy, loner, touch aversion, slutty glasses - I die for him. Seeing his relationship with Saige was SO GOOD I was so invested. I loved the sweet moments and the MM? My gawd. PLZ. I need more.
Dax is the charmer the sweetheart, the fuck boy and the love bomber. I think an fmc always needs someone like this to really set things into motion and that is exactly what he did. Dax was actually a v complex character. IDK if i like him after finishing this book tho lol.
ELIAS LOLLLL. I was hysterically cry laughing at the things he said oh my gawd this man is hilarious, broody, angry, fuuuucked up frfr and has a major pain kink. His slow burn with Saige tho? HERE FOR IT. So well done.
The plot twist and then the next twist? So good. The plot isnt anything insane but this book is v character and relationship heavy, which I appreciate.
The spice oh my god some of the most delicious scenes I read recently. PHEW.
I am obsessed. Need book 2 STAT.
I was hooked from the start! The pace is fast but there is some slow burn with some characters vs others and I LOVED THAT. All three mmcs are different - and I love that in a why choose bc it is so important.
First off, I liked Saige a lot. It was interesting to really see how her character kept changing with everything going on - she was true to her emotions and the “rain cloud” reference hit hard for me! Eep.
Nolan. MY BABY BOY AND MY OBSESSION. Vampy, loner, touch aversion, slutty glasses - I die for him. Seeing his relationship with Saige was SO GOOD I was so invested. I loved the sweet moments and the MM? My gawd. PLZ. I need more.
Dax is the charmer the sweetheart, the fuck boy and the love bomber. I think an fmc always needs someone like this to really set things into motion and that is exactly what he did. Dax was actually a v complex character. IDK if i like him after finishing this book tho lol.
ELIAS LOLLLL. I was hysterically cry laughing at the things he said oh my gawd this man is hilarious, broody, angry, fuuuucked up frfr and has a major pain kink. His slow burn with Saige tho? HERE FOR IT. So well done.
The plot twist and then the next twist? So good. The plot isnt anything insane but this book is v character and relationship heavy, which I appreciate.
The spice oh my god some of the most delicious scenes I read recently. PHEW.
I am obsessed. Need book 2 STAT.
March 12, 2026
This one feels different than the other Elle books I’ve read. For starters, it didn’t emotionally body slam me and leave me face down in the dirt. ...which is suspicious. 🤨
I have a feeling book two is going to absolutely ruin my life, so I’m pregrieving (it's like pregaming, only sadder) and hydrating accordingly.
Make it Hurt is a dark college romance centered around Saige, her step brother, and his two best friends. It's an Elle Mitchell book, so obviously the characters are all going to have questionable morals, but I loved them all. The growth that each of them shows is tremendous and they feel like real people rather than just the stick figures that are normally dancing around in my brain while I read.
Angst, pain, fear, and heartbreak all play pivotal roles in this story. They intertwine and create this wonderful, dark, questionably romantic web of trauma and spice. ... and ohhh, the spice. 🫠
Another banger from my girl. I’m endlessly proud of her for cranking these stories out and somehow keeping herself (mostly) sane while doing it just so we can dive into these chaotic worlds we love reading about… but would probably not survive in. 😅
Bring on book 2... I'm ready.
(no i'm not)
I have a feeling book two is going to absolutely ruin my life, so I’m pregrieving (it's like pregaming, only sadder) and hydrating accordingly.
Make it Hurt is a dark college romance centered around Saige, her step brother, and his two best friends. It's an Elle Mitchell book, so obviously the characters are all going to have questionable morals, but I loved them all. The growth that each of them shows is tremendous and they feel like real people rather than just the stick figures that are normally dancing around in my brain while I read.
Angst, pain, fear, and heartbreak all play pivotal roles in this story. They intertwine and create this wonderful, dark, questionably romantic web of trauma and spice. ... and ohhh, the spice. 🫠
Another banger from my girl. I’m endlessly proud of her for cranking these stories out and somehow keeping herself (mostly) sane while doing it just so we can dive into these chaotic worlds we love reading about… but would probably not survive in. 😅
Bring on book 2... I'm ready.
(no i'm not)
March 8, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author
Ok I absolutely loved this I was hooked from the start and I couldn’t stop once I started then the cliffhanger aahhhh I can’t wait for book 2!!
I love a bully romance and the why choose make it even better.
This is my first book by Elle and definitely won’t be my last I’m hooked for life!
It keeps you gripped from start to finish.
Honestly one of the best bully romance’s I’ve ever read.
Nolan is so intriguing i think he’s my favourite I really love him so quiet but slowly finding himself, lowering his guard for Saige and letting her in.
Dax is what can I say I love him 2 he’s funny a real sweetheart except when he’s not. He’s really not as bad as he thinks he is. He loves Nolan and they are so sweet together.
Elias well what can I say I liked him at the start then I didn’t I’m still slightly on the fence he has a messed up way in showing his love. But he’s a good guy at heart.
Saige is strong but a bit of a pushover especially when it comes to Dex. I can’t wait for what happens for her.
Ok I absolutely loved this I was hooked from the start and I couldn’t stop once I started then the cliffhanger aahhhh I can’t wait for book 2!!
I love a bully romance and the why choose make it even better.
This is my first book by Elle and definitely won’t be my last I’m hooked for life!
It keeps you gripped from start to finish.
Honestly one of the best bully romance’s I’ve ever read.
Nolan is so intriguing i think he’s my favourite I really love him so quiet but slowly finding himself, lowering his guard for Saige and letting her in.
Dax is what can I say I love him 2 he’s funny a real sweetheart except when he’s not. He’s really not as bad as he thinks he is. He loves Nolan and they are so sweet together.
Elias well what can I say I liked him at the start then I didn’t I’m still slightly on the fence he has a messed up way in showing his love. But he’s a good guy at heart.
Saige is strong but a bit of a pushover especially when it comes to Dex. I can’t wait for what happens for her.
March 16, 2026
If Elle Michell writes a why choose I will read it every single time. And every time it will be a six-star banger for me. Elle truly has a talent with her writer's voice because tell me why I got so invested in the book, I thought I was the main character, and I was stressed like the cops were gonna come get me. Her books are so very well written, and she truly handles these plots with care. Our FMC Saige has spent the past two years being tormented and bullied by her stepbrother, his best friends, and his followers. While she puts up a strong front, she is truly broken from the abuse. When an incident happens that puts Saige's life in the mercy of her step-brother Elias, and his two best friends (who are also boyfriends), Noaln and Dax. She has to do whatever they want and whatever they say if she wants to stay out of jail. This was an intense and emotional vibe. I feel so maternal over Nolan and Saige; they are my babies. I am praying for a groveling redemption arc for Elias. I know he has it in him. And Dax, I really want to hear more about his backstory, why he is the way he is with relationships. I just love Elle Mitchell's books so much!
March 31, 2026
I have seriously loved anything I’ve read by Elle and this book is no different! Make It Hurt is a dark why choose bully romance, and thats exactly what these MMCs are, bullies. They’re so cruel and you’ll question why you find yourself liking them anyways. There’s so many elements to this book that will keep you on your toes. We have the reason Saige is stuck being at the beck and call of Elias, Dax, and Nolan. We have a stalker element. And the spice which never disappoints!!! But can we talk about the one thing Elle does best?? THE CLIFF HANGER??? REALLY??? I screamed and now i have to wait? Illegal actually. But i so highly recommend this book if you’re looking for your next dark romance with morally grey characters, some who are very valid in the way they currently are and others who you want to just say “but for why?’. I cannot wait for book two to see how everything is going to unfold!!
February 16, 2026
Wow
Whatever Elle puts into her writing, I need more of it.
This was delicious and I was absolutely addicted. This was one of those books that I had to force myself to put down so I could sleep & be a functioning human.
Please check your triggers, it is dark, it is unhinged & it is taboo.
Trauma bonding at its finest, and step brother issues 😏
The spice is red hot, and I love me some boyfriend having a boyfriend , who is also your boyfriend vibes , ya know? And loving characters that you know you’re not meant love?
The cliff hanger though, that is just meaaaannn…
I will be thinking about this book nonstop until the next is available
Thank you Elle for opportunity to ARC read, it was an absolute honor 🖤
Whatever Elle puts into her writing, I need more of it.
This was delicious and I was absolutely addicted. This was one of those books that I had to force myself to put down so I could sleep & be a functioning human.
Please check your triggers, it is dark, it is unhinged & it is taboo.
Trauma bonding at its finest, and step brother issues 😏
The spice is red hot, and I love me some boyfriend having a boyfriend , who is also your boyfriend vibes , ya know? And loving characters that you know you’re not meant love?
The cliff hanger though, that is just meaaaannn…
I will be thinking about this book nonstop until the next is available
Thank you Elle for opportunity to ARC read, it was an absolute honor 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
First thank you Elle for the ARC opportunity!
Ok FIRST of all! THAT CLIFFHANGER 😭🫠
I def stayed up to finish this , because why the heck not! Of course ima lock in!
I have never thought " damn degradation sounds kind of hot " lmao but everytime ain't read and Elle Mitchell book i do, too bad real life me could never! Lol
Anywho, back to the book
Elias was hella trash but I liked him a little more towards the end, Dax and Nolan were adorable. Saige, man I feel for her. We've all had our dark days, some more than others but the way Elias would get in her head was so foul 😭
Like bro why?!
As per usual, Elle has found a way to punch my heart and hand it back to me 🥲 I (gentally) THREW MY KINDLE! LOL
The spice was all the way there cause 🥵 man !
I cannot wait for book two!
Ok FIRST of all! THAT CLIFFHANGER 😭🫠
I def stayed up to finish this , because why the heck not! Of course ima lock in!
I have never thought " damn degradation sounds kind of hot " lmao but everytime ain't read and Elle Mitchell book i do, too bad real life me could never! Lol
Anywho, back to the book
Elias was hella trash but I liked him a little more towards the end, Dax and Nolan were adorable. Saige, man I feel for her. We've all had our dark days, some more than others but the way Elias would get in her head was so foul 😭
Like bro why?!
As per usual, Elle has found a way to punch my heart and hand it back to me 🥲 I (gentally) THREW MY KINDLE! LOL
The spice was all the way there cause 🥵 man !
I cannot wait for book two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is everything the title claims it to be! Make It Hurt is one of the best why choose bully romances I've read in a long time! It is a true bully romance! Not a "we pick on the FMC" romance. No, Elias (her stepbrother), Dax, and Nolan have made Saige's life miserable and continue to do so after they have something to make sure she obeys them. The twist at the end though, I didn't see that coming!
If you're looking for a bully why choose, a touch adverse, emo MMC with a tortured past, a pretentious Playboy MMC that has a thing for broken people, and a vindictive stepbrother that secretly loves his stepsister and will torment her to have her, you've found your next read!
Thank you so much Elle Mitchell for the pleasure of ARC reading this book for you!
If you're looking for a bully why choose, a touch adverse, emo MMC with a tortured past, a pretentious Playboy MMC that has a thing for broken people, and a vindictive stepbrother that secretly loves his stepsister and will torment her to have her, you've found your next read!
Thank you so much Elle Mitchell for the pleasure of ARC reading this book for you!
February 15, 2026
Where do I even begin to explain my thoughts and feelings right now?? This book will take you on such a whirlwind that you won’t even realize you’re in until it’s too late. It will suck you in and make you question everything you think you know about the information you’re given. Elle always does such a phenomenal job making you fall in love with the characters she brings to life even when it makes you question yourself and this book is definitely no exception to that. I couldn’t help but love each one of the MMC’s no matter how questionable their actions have become. I will say Nolan has my whole heart and I just want to protect him from the world but that’s neither here nor there. I wasn’t expecting the psychological aspect of the book to make me think twice about my theories and keep me on my toes but that’s exactly what it did. I’m fiending to get my hands on the next book!!
February 19, 2026
Sage, Elias, Dax, + Nolan
-mmfm whychoose
-dark bully romance
-college setting
-stepbrother
-stalker
i actually LOVEDDD this book! the story set up, the plot, the characters & the dynamics between them all just made me want more & more! the bullying with her being in their debt plot created this great angst that made the yearning & psychological questioning that much better! i can not wait for more!!
-mmfm whychoose
-dark bully romance
-college setting
-stepbrother
-stalker
i actually LOVEDDD this book! the story set up, the plot, the characters & the dynamics between them all just made me want more & more! the bullying with her being in their debt plot created this great angst that made the yearning & psychological questioning that much better! i can not wait for more!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sage, Elias, Dax & Nolan
MMFM Why Choose
College Setting
Dark Bully Romance
Stepbrother
Stalker
Ahhhhh this may well just be my favourite book if Elle's 😍😍
It had me hooked from the very start!!!
I love these characters, even if they are unhinged 😂
This one is so good!
MMFM Why Choose
College Setting
Dark Bully Romance
Stepbrother
Stalker
Ahhhhh this may well just be my favourite book if Elle's 😍😍
It had me hooked from the very start!!!
I love these characters, even if they are unhinged 😂
This one is so good!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The heat and hurt in this book knows no bounds! I knew what I was getting into this book with Elle Mitchell and she delivered.
Saige thought everything was going to be okay in life with her mom, her new stepdad and stepbrother. Little did she know who this stepbrother is and what he is capable of. Elias is hurting and who best to take it out on than his stepsister? Ruining her life is the only answer. Now Saige, Elias, and Elias's friends Dax and Nolan are going to the same university. Saige is tired of their torments and is ready for a new life but circumstances turn for the worst and she relies on her tormentors to help her. Can't get any worse right? You'll see.
Make it Hurt is an emotionally traumatic ride in the best way. It was a nice break for me from the fluffy books I read. I was definitely with Saige on her journey of being scared, agrivated, and fed up. I appreciated that she stayed aware of how messed up everything was, even when her emotions became confusing. The bullying she went through really sanded her down but she still kept being herself. I liked Nolan the most. Dax I was intrigued to see how things swung with him. Elias was psychotic. The situation overall was so messed up, so if that's your thing, I highly recommend it. And let's not forget the spice! It was smutty from beginning to end and it was pretty hot. I do recommend reading the warnings at the beginning if you're sensitive and not sure what you're getting yourself into. But if you want a step brother who only knows how to hurt to express his feelings and some sexual trauma bonding with her high school bully, then this is the book for you!
I did receive an ARC for an honest review.
Saige thought everything was going to be okay in life with her mom, her new stepdad and stepbrother. Little did she know who this stepbrother is and what he is capable of. Elias is hurting and who best to take it out on than his stepsister? Ruining her life is the only answer. Now Saige, Elias, and Elias's friends Dax and Nolan are going to the same university. Saige is tired of their torments and is ready for a new life but circumstances turn for the worst and she relies on her tormentors to help her. Can't get any worse right? You'll see.
Make it Hurt is an emotionally traumatic ride in the best way. It was a nice break for me from the fluffy books I read. I was definitely with Saige on her journey of being scared, agrivated, and fed up. I appreciated that she stayed aware of how messed up everything was, even when her emotions became confusing. The bullying she went through really sanded her down but she still kept being herself. I liked Nolan the most. Dax I was intrigued to see how things swung with him. Elias was psychotic. The situation overall was so messed up, so if that's your thing, I highly recommend it. And let's not forget the spice! It was smutty from beginning to end and it was pretty hot. I do recommend reading the warnings at the beginning if you're sensitive and not sure what you're getting yourself into. But if you want a step brother who only knows how to hurt to express his feelings and some sexual trauma bonding with her high school bully, then this is the book for you!
I did receive an ARC for an honest review.
March 14, 2026
Literally couldn’t put this book down. I’m definitely in my bully dark romance era .. make it why choose and college setting and I’m done for.
This book has me hooked. I do wish Saige held it together more and didn’t cry so much - or at least let other people see her cry - but I get it - and that cliffhanger. I can’t. I’m not okay
This book has me hooked. I do wish Saige held it together more and didn’t cry so much - or at least let other people see her cry - but I get it - and that cliffhanger. I can’t. I’m not okay
Review of advance copy received from Autor
"Seal it with a kiss."
I'm a guy who can't show affection; I'm not good with words or expressing myself, I have an aversion to physical touch, and secrets I can't talk about—the kind I medicate and do my best to stuff into a corner, but I still have to be prepared for them to pop back up at anytime and send me into a spiral. And she's a girl who can't even take a compliment. What a match.
I GOT AN ARC AAAAAAA!!!
Let me just start by saying: Talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, spectacular.
I literally inhaled this book in one single night. Did I sleep? No. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY. Make It Hurt is everything I could ever want in a bullying why choose romance.
Also, can we talk about a literal miracle? I actually liked all the MMCs. Shocking, I know.
Elias: He might be a little unhinged (maybe more than a little), but he is completely, undeniably obsessed with Saige and I ATE. IT. UP.
Dax: I was honestly on the fence with him. I can’t lie, he made me feel a tiny bit of rage sometimes.
Nolan: The only one who never made me angry once. He is an absolute sweetheart and must be protected at all costs.
The chemistry? Unmatched. And that cliffhanger?! It should be illegal because I needed the next book the second I finished the last page.
I'm a guy who can't show affection; I'm not good with words or expressing myself, I have an aversion to physical touch, and secrets I can't talk about—the kind I medicate and do my best to stuff into a corner, but I still have to be prepared for them to pop back up at anytime and send me into a spiral. And she's a girl who can't even take a compliment. What a match.
I GOT AN ARC AAAAAAA!!!
Let me just start by saying: Talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, spectacular.
I literally inhaled this book in one single night. Did I sleep? No. Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY. Make It Hurt is everything I could ever want in a bullying why choose romance.
Also, can we talk about a literal miracle? I actually liked all the MMCs. Shocking, I know.
Elias: He might be a little unhinged (maybe more than a little), but he is completely, undeniably obsessed with Saige and I ATE. IT. UP.
Dax: I was honestly on the fence with him. I can’t lie, he made me feel a tiny bit of rage sometimes.
Nolan: The only one who never made me angry once. He is an absolute sweetheart and must be protected at all costs.
The chemistry? Unmatched. And that cliffhanger?! It should be illegal because I needed the next book the second I finished the last page.
March 11, 2026
11/10 no notes.
Need book 2 asap.
Need book 2 asap.
March 14, 2026
Elle Mitchell and her books bring me to my knees every time I pick one up. MY GOSH. And they just keep getting better and better. 😍🤤
March 16, 2026
This book made me feel molested 🤨 I actually just wanted to cry reading this. Yeah dark romance and all I get it but nah I just want to sit in the shower and cry after this book. DNF about 80% of the it, do not recommend it 🙂
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