His Doll: A Dark Bad Boy Romance

The lead character of Jacob grew on me very slowly. He seemed pretty despicable early in the book, His Doll - not only a therapist who lusted after his desperately troubled teenage patient (OMG!), but also a grown man with plenty of hidden unhealthy baggage of his own. Could he be any less likeable? Less trustworthy? More dangerous?

Yes, he could get worse, much worse. As this pitiful erotic romance between Jacob and poor Alice progressed after Jacob became her guardian, the further plot twists and cringe-worthy yet hot sex scenes became almost too much for me, the reluctant reader.

His Doll is so well written, however, that there were glimmers of hope. And the characters' emotional conditions were so well defined and the plot interesting enough, that I kept reading. I'm glad I did. (SPOILER ALERT: The rest of this review covers the conclusion of the book.). Gradually, this seemingly impossible to accept relationship grew deeper, and the author managed to conclude this weird medium-length novel with a believable HEA, as promised in the book's description.

After digesting it all, I give it 4 stars and will read it again at some point. I don't know quite how Ms. Sinclair did it, but His Doll morphed into a unique and satisfying testament to the overcoming healing power of love. How she accomplished this in only 170 pages, I don't know. Weird.

Alice is crying in her therapist’s office. She feels like her mother doesn’t pay any attention to her anymore. Even the therapist, Mr Hawke, is a way for her mother to avoid dealing personally with her. And even he seems distracted lately, scribbling his notes and not looking at her when she’s pouring her heart out. So she abruptly turns to leave, vowing not to continue the sessions anymore, but trips in her very high heels and falls to the floor. He helps her up and she threatens to say he forced himself on her until he points to the camera that will show he didn’t. But he crowds her and confuses her with his closeness and what he asks her. Then tells her he will see her next week.

As she hurries out of the office, she is confronted by her mother who wants to talk to her about something important. She is afraid her mother overheard something. But it’s much more than that. Mr Hawke will be her guardian and she will live with him while her mother pursues her own agenda. Where will this lead now?

I am not comfortable with the total breach of professionalism as the therapist crosses a big line. However, the story was well written and handled some important issues. I was given a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it. My comments reflect my honest opinion.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. I love everything written by this author. Her books are so well-written, her characters are so well-developed, you forget you are reading fiction! You feel you KNOW these people and have a vested interest in the outcome of whatever is happening in their lives. Alice is an 18-year old girl who has been seeing a hot as sin relatively young therapist, Jacob, for a while. She has thoughts about that are NOT patient-like and frankly speaking he has thoughts about her that are NOT of the doctor variety! He does try, really, really. But sometimes his bad boy nature makes him say inappropriate things to Alice. Not that she minds. Then, Alice's mother hires him to be Alice's guardian of all things while mom runs off to a new job. Temptation, anyone? How is this supposed to work? For either of them? Alice wants him to be her first, and next and next etc. She wants him, get the picture? He's older, maybe 12 years or so. Hot gorgeous, sexy, dominant, probably with a little kink thrown in which Alice finds out about later when she breaks him down. Oh yes, she gets her way. Sexy book. Sexy characters. You have to read this. HOT.

Jacob and Alice are not supposed to be together – he is her therapist and she is his client (not to mention a student). But there is just something about her that draws him in, and he can't stop wanting her. When Alice's mom leaves her in his care, he is determined to not pursue his want of her.. Until he finds out just how much she wants him as well.
Isabella Starling is amazing. Her romances (dark or not - I love all her books) are always at the top of my TBR list and I always am anxiously awaiting the next one to come out. This book was definitely a dark romance (the sex is on fire, it was so hot – no joke, you might need a glass of water or a shower afterwards) but it had a hopeful feel to it at the same time. I always root for the Hero & heroine to get together, but in this case I really REALLY wanted Alice to find her happy ending. She was just such a lovable character who has had a rough time of it. When you read her story you will see what I mean. These two find their happiness together and the ending was just a great conclusion for them :)

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

I voluntarily agreed to read an Advanced Reader Copy of His Doll and to provide an honest review.

Jacob Hawkins is a therapist and Alice is his patient. Alice is a high school senior and is seeing Mr. Hawkins as he is part of a mental institutional program for anyone under the age of 22. Alice has many issues, including her relationship with her Mother. Alice finds herself placed in the guardianship of Mr. Hawkins as her Mother goes off to a new job as a television host.

Initially unknown to Alice was the fact that Jacob Hawkins is also into BDSM and has set his sights on making Alice "His Doll". Jacob initially tries to play it cool but Alice is quite drawn to him, especially as he gives her the attention she so desperately craves.

Jacob and Alice both become obsessed with each other and know that their relationship must remain a secret as he is her therapist and her Mother pays him to be her guardian. Their relationship becomes more heightened when Jacob becomes a school counselor at her school.

I sincerely recommend reading this quite steamy book. I found it an enjoyable read.

Isabella has written another great book. Alice is eighteen years old & has being seeing her therapist Jacob for the past few years. She feels unloved by her mother & now starts thinking that Jabob doesn't care about her either. That is farthest from the truth, he cares about Alice more than he should. Since he is her therapist that is dangerous for him. Alice is now going to live with him while her mom goes to the other side of country for her new job. At first Alice is very angry at her mom & Jacob being pawned off onto Jacob. Jacob is having a hard time keeping his feelings at bay around Alice. He wants her more than anything. She finally breaks down & begs him to take her. He finally does & neither want to stop. They have hot, steamy & passionate sex scenes. Jacob likes BDSM & worries that it might make Alice want to leave like his ex wife did. Alice is naturally submissive & wants to do anything to please Jacob. I recommend buying this book, you will not be disappointed at all. Jacob & Alice have a great connection & you have to read this to find out what happens. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Alice is a high school senior who hates school and has no friends. Her mom is busy with her career and the only person she has to talk to is her counselor. When things don't go her way she will lie, manipulate people or hurt herself. She also fantasizes about her counselor. Then one day her mom tells Alice that she has a new job in a different city and she has arranged for Alice to stay with her counselor.
Jacob is Alice's counselor. He is going through a divorce and knows he should leave Alice alone. His wife thought he was too kinky but Jacob is looking for the perfect submissive partner. Alice shows all the signs of being submissive even though she doesn't realize it. Can he resist teaching Alice to fulfill his needs?
This story is a little darker and edgier than some of Sterling's previous stories. Alice has some real psychological issues including self-mutilation. Jacob is into domination and submission.. This story is still very hot and there is love between the characters even if they don't quite know how to show it. I voluntarily received a copy of this book and this is my review.

His Doll by Isabella Starling
Its taboo, forbidden, frowned upon and hot as hell. Jacob Hawke is Alice Le Roux Therapist. Alice has issues but Jacob wants more. Can he cross the line and risk losing everything? He is bored with his job and the only thing that keeps him sane is Alice. Alice’s mother is self-absorbed and is looking to off load Alice somewhere, while she chases her dreams. Who better to leave her with, than Jacob. In moves Alice and things become heated very quickly. Alice is the perfect submissive for Jacob. Can they keep their relationship a secret? Can Alice rely on Jacob? They are entering a dangerous and unethical relationship. Can they survive? This one was a really hot read with enough sexual chemistry to crack your screen. It was fast paced and gave you enough background and yet there were a few issues that were unresolved. For instance how did Jacob become scarred? If you like the taboo and forbidden romance between an older man and a younger woman, then this one is for you.
Reviewed for Hot Books and Sassy Girls Book Blog

I enjoy this steamy romance as well as the author's style. I had to laugh at one reviewer who wondered if all these reviews were real. Yes, I can guarantee this review is real. Alice is a troubled youth due to a common problem in this world which is adults who do not know how to help their kids grow up healthy. I am familiar with this real problem because I was one of those adults. Now, here is where the fiction begins. Her therapist falls in love with her. Her mother palms her off on him. Alice falls in love with him too. If this were real, I would not have much hope for a long marriage because she is so young but it is not real. It is easy for me to get lost in the steamy romance. Jacob is not stupid. He is a hurting adult who fell in love with a superficial woman in college and now he is ready to take a chance on love once more. He is still a young man in his 30's. What is not to love about his faithful and steamy romance? I received a gifted copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. I honestly love this story and this author!

I really enjoyed this story and it's characters Jacob and Alice the plot was evolving steadily and contained many social messages such as verbal abuse on school and depression.

I tried to connect many times with the heroine and i felt her struggles many times believe me some facts in her life are really heart breaking and it also shows us that the exterior of a person doesn't always show us his/her true nature, maybe it's an act of defense... this book had so many layers to explore apart from the dark erotic romance and that's what really won me from the first pages.

In addition you see that the characters develop constantly and by the end of the plot it's like you see very different and more mature characters that was also a very interesting addition and of course another plus are the very hot scenes..

I don't wanna spoil anything so I'm stopping here, as you can see i really enjoyed it, I certainly recommend it and I'm looking forward to the next story the author will create.

Bravo, Isabella Starling did a phenomenal job. This book was so definitely worth the wait. It was very well written with just enough drama and emotion suspense to keep you wanting more and more. His Doll is a Dark Romance. The main characters in this story are Mr. Hawke "Jacob" and Alice Leroux. Alice is a troubled 18 year old who is very timid and struggles with emotion and seeks affection. She also has a crush on her therapist. She has been seeing a counselor/therapist. Mr. Hawke/AKA Jacob has been treating her for 2 years and is starting to have inappropriate thoughts about Alice. He is fighting temptation whenever he is in the same room as her. Jacob wants her all to himself. Want more of this story then you just have to pick it up and read you will not be disappointed. This book is so hot. Isabella Starlings books just keep getting better and better. Jacob and Alice are a perfect match. I couldn't get enough of them. I didn't want it to end. I voluntarily read and advance readers copy of this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story. Spoilers ahead.

I had trouble with this book due to the relationship between Jacob and Alice, both as counsellor/patient and guardian/ward. For me, that is just a no-cross line. I had no trouble with the age difference or the life circumstances but I just couldn't get past the couple's roles. The scene in his dungeon was terrifying and the self-harm and emotional break that she has as a result were just scary. Jacob's emotions were too inconsistent for me and Alice was so incredibly vulnerable and in such need of psychological if not medical help that i just ... struggled. I will read another book by Ms. Starling but unfortunately, this one was a miss for me,

Where to start with this train wreck? Continuity issues galore, anal without lube on an 18 year old who has never had a sexual partner, British English from an American's mouth. "A Dark Bad Boy Romance" - it wasn't dark (it was "forbidden" - but not really cuz 18 is the age of consent in every state"). It was unethical as he was her therapist - and that's not dark, that's just wrong. He is no Bad Boy - just a therapist who couldn't rein it in. You won't get the time back if you read it...

Taboo love story between Counselor and patient. Jacob is hot but would have liked more information on him, especially how he got to the dark side of his sexual preferences. And Alice is young and so unsure of herself. A senior in high school, I had a tough time with thinking it was okay for these two to get together. Alice just had too many problems for me to feel them getting together was right. And Jacob should be helping her to come to her potential which I guess she slowly did but it was a bit rushed. Maybe more info on both characters. The sex was hot between the two of them but at times I still thought Alice was a bit reluctant. But I liked how Jacob came to Alice's defense and helped her get through some difficult situations. Jacob was the only constant in her life and he did have her best interest at heart.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book. I would recommend this book to those that can handle explicit sex, heartbreaking situations and May/December love.

Really? Just... no. Everything was too easy. Resolutions to the conflicts in the story...just no. I know this is supposed to be smut, but could the story be a little tighter, make a little more sense? Psychologist screws with girl who is messed up in the head, starts a relationship with her, all while being her legal guardian and master. On top of miraculously becoming the counselor at her high school. I've read books like this, and most of them much better. You aren't missing anything if you skip this one.

Another steamy, hot read by Isabella!!! An unforbidden attraction, when released, turns into something HOT AND SEXY...and unexpectedly...forever <3 Alice was a girl that felt thrown away and unloved by her mother and everyone else in her life. She fought for attention and at times manipulated others to get that attention. Jacob Hawke, a therapist / counselor, that's been treating Alice for the last couple of years and fully aware of her wicked ways. Thus far he'd been able to keep his distance and remain totally professional. UNTIL, Alice's mother had an opportunity that would take her out of state for quite some time and couldn't be bothered taking Alice along...So...she gave Dr. Hawke guardianship over her daughter. Jacob & Alice were both harboring broken souls that only the other could mend! AND WOW DO THEY MEND THEM! I voluntarily reviewed this advanced copy and honestly, I Loved It! Thanks Isabella for another Wild Read!

Five Fabulous Stars! Alice has grown up with an absentee mother who basically has no time for her. Alice is in therapy and when her mother goes out of town she decides to ask the therapist if he can watch her. Jacob is Alice's therapist and he has an attraction towards her. Jacob knows that it is against the rules to have the feelings and thoughts that he has about Alice but it's extremely hard to resist her. Will Jacob give into his thoughts and feelings for Alice? I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found that the story was well-written. I love the characters and could feel what each one was going through. I have not read this author before but look forward to reading more books by her. I highly recommend this story!

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5

I've quickly grown to love Isabella Starling's romance works. She's able to write developed characters, and a great storyline, in a relatively quick read. His Doll is no exception.
I loved Alice and Jacob's story. The taboo nature of their relationship gave this book a little extra spice. I don't really think this is a "dark" romance though. Yes, Jacob's preferences in the bedroom are a bit darker than vanilla, and Alice has some issues that would definitely not be considered light, but when I think of dark romances I tend to think of darker themes, not just more than vanilla bedroom scenes and mental illness. I still enjoyed the book very much, I just think the "dark romance" labor is being used a bit too loosely.
If you enjoy taboo-ish romance that gives you more story than most romances you should definitely give this a read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

I loved reading His Doll, all about Alice Leroux an eighteen year old troubled girl & Jacob Hawke her therapist/Counselor. Alice has been his patient for three years now since she was sixteen. Her mother Magda Leroux is a well known TV personality and very rich and is a single parent. Everything about her is perfect, except her daughter Alice who is some how broken and needs to have constant supervision! Her mother has just made a deal with her therapist that he will be her legal guardian and she will pay him handsomely to take care of her daughter, while she leaves the state to pursue bigger goals for her career. The author wrote a story about a patient & her therapist and the twisted things that go on! Read this story, its unconventional but will leave you feeling content!

3.5 stars

This book left me really torn. His Doll: A Dark Bad Boy Romance by Isabella Starling is a story about a 18 year old high school girl and her thirty something therapist.

While I don't mind a younger woman/ older man story, Alice doesn't appear wise beyond her years and Jacob seems to take advantage of her naivety. Alice comes off broken and neglected by her mother and the one person that should be helping her to heal Jacob just seems to want to control her as well. Speaking of Jacob, he has so many issues that he could use some time on a therapist couch as well.

Saying all that, the writing was very well done and the BDSM aspect was hot! Some of the scenes make you wish you were 18 year old Alice!

Even though this book was didn't hit the right tone with me, I really like the writing style of this author and would like to read more of her work.

Alice is a patient of the therapist, Jacob Hawke. She is a very damaged young girl, 18 yo, senior at her exclusive girl’s school. Alice’s mother doesn’t have time for her so she depends on the therapist to find out what Alice’s problems are. Mostly it’s that she doesn’t feel loved by her mother or anyone, which is close to a fact. Her best friend has become a mean girl toward Alice. Mr. Hawke has unrequited feelings for his patient, but he’s older, wiser and would be in sooo much trouble if he pursued his attraction. Well, you see where this is going, I think. It gets so much better as the book continues. Well written and scintillating. I gave it 4 stars because it took me a while to get into it. That’s how I know I have a 5 star book…can’t put it down. I still highly recommend this book. Apparently so do a lot of other people…more 5 stars than 4! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.

Jacob has been Alice’s therapist for two years, and even though he is bored with his job he stays there for her. All Alice wants is to be loved and to feel wanted, as her mother goes jetting off yet again to pursue her career; Alice is left in Jacobs care with him acting as her guardian. Despite the intense chemistry between these two, they try to stay away from each other.
This is a well written story with well developed characters. I was unsure at how I would feel about this book when viewing the blurb, but my word, I need not have worried. I loved it!! Isabella has done an amazing job in dealing with a taboo subject, and I was intrigued and captivated throughout. This author never disappoints with her work.
Congratulations on yet another wonderful book! I recommend this authors work for all, and cannot wait to read more from her.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book!

His Doll was my first book by Isabella Starling and she hooked me in! I absolutely loved this book from page one, I could not put it down! The plot was exictuted very well, and the characters was done flawlessly! Strong female leads are a MUST for me and Isabella did not disappoint me at all with Alice! At first I was unsure how to feel about her character but as the book progressed so did she. Jaccob's character had me swooning from page one! He was dark, mysterious and dominating! When I say this book brings the steam that's putting things lightly! This book was absolutely smoldering! Isabella did not hold back. I loved how she balanced BDSM and Erotica in this book she kept it light but HOT! This was a quick but excellent read. I was not ready for it to end! But Isabella completely nailed that ending! 5 stars well earned!
*I voluntarily read a advanced copy.*

Another hot and steamy read by Isabella Starling. This book made me conflicted at first. I thought in the beginning that it was a bit too dark and that I wouldn't like it, but I was so wrong. This was a very good read, so entertaining and very enjoyable. I thought the story was a bit taboo which made it more interesting. I thought the book had a very good flow and it kept me so enthralled that it made for a quick read. I loved the characters as well. I thought the author did a great job with their development. They had such great chemistry and they seemed to fit together perfectly. I really enjoyed how the characters seemed to change throughout the book and then became a better couple and better people in general. If you like a steamy dark taboo type genre, then this is the book to get. You will not be disappointed. I voluntarily reviewed an arc for this author.

I voluntarily recieved and arc for this author.

I have been waiting for this book forever. I'm exaggerating on the forever part, really just about a month and a half but it was worth it. Once I downloaded my copy I finished reading it within two hours. You absolutely can't put this book down. I fell in love with Jacob, not only by his looks but how he cared for Alice. She had a hard time in school and when you see how people treated it her, I was really disgusted by them. She had nobody to turn to except for her therapist Jacob. He was there for her when nobody was including her mother. Not only did Alice have her ups and downs, Jacob did as well, especially with that ex wife of his. But I love the fact how they overcame them and came together in the end. There is a HEA which I lived especially how the mom reacted at the end when she found out.

This book is worth the read but all of Isabella books are. You will enjoy the book as much as I did.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book.

I absolutely love Isabella Starling, so whenever she has something new out I've got to read it. This book was definitely a little darker than most of her other books and the subject matter is pretty different too, but it was still an amazing read. Jacob and Alice are so broken and their relationship should absolutely be off limits. She's an 18 year old high school student and he's her counselor who are thrown together by her self obsessed Mom because she has better things to do besides raise a teenager so she leaves Alice in Jacob's custody. There is a lot of teenage angst that I could have done without, but when the two of them finally give in to their feelings things heat up fast. This is a quick, really hot read...I finished it in less than a day. Great read, I highly recommend it!!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I really enjoyed it even though the relationship was a taboo one. This book was about an 18 year old girl who is very emotionally withdrawn named Alice and also her therapist Jacob who has given up on love after his wife leaves him for his best friend. They are drawn together and Alice's mom makes it worse when she has Jacob take guardianship over Alice so she can pursue her career. Things move quickly when Alice moves in and they become intimate. Alice is an emotionally injured girl who hurts herself when she is upset. Jacob is emotionally unavailable as well but can the two of them together have enough love to cure them of their baggage? Parts of this boom made me cry with what Alice went through. Lots of steamy scenes and you route for them to make it the entire book! This is a must read!!

Dark and very taboo. Student Alice is in therapy for many reasons. Main one her mom. Mom is a superstar who has no time for her daughter. Alice just wants love. Jacob is the therapist. He is battling his own demons. He knows first rule don't fall for the patient especially the young ones. But Alice needs him. Her mom has to be away and signs Alice over to Jacob to oversee while she is gone. What is he supposed to do with her this close? She is so submissive. He wants to train her and break her. She wants this as much if not more. She has saved herself for someone just like him. I was conflicted with parts of this. Alice is still a child albeit she is 18. He is much older. In the end love wins out and my mind is swayed. This is a really hot book. Must read.

Voluntary read of ARC.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It follows the characters of Alice Leroux, a broken 18 year old in her last year of high school who seems to be falling apart at the seams when her mother signs her up to go talk to therapist Mr. Jacob Hawke. Jacob Hawke has been getting bored with his job, the only reason he stays working is to see Alice during their sessions. When her mom, Magda, leaves to pursue her career options in New York, she leaves young Alice in Jacob's care for the next year, hoping the therapist can help her daughter but it soon leads to so much more. Will Jacob be able to keep Alice at bay? Or will he give into his feelings for the young girl and possibly make one of the biggest mistakes a therapist can make; sleeping with a patient?
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a voluntary review.

I voluntarily received a copy of the ACR book for an honest review. Isabella Starling is hands down one of my favourite authors, she never disappointes. This book was an overdose of dark emotional need and I loved it. Alice is so sweet, innocent and damaged, only seeking for someone to love her. I could feel her pain at times when she was desperately seeking her mothers love and the overwhelming sadness when she is finally abandoned. Jacob see all this need inside of her and it attracts him to her. He fights it at first but, his need for her makes him give in. When he showes her his dark side Alice can't accept it, he tries to do the right thing and walk away and Alice won't let him. They both try to hide behind who they really are inside, without success because their love finally makes them give in

I was hooked right from the first page. I absolutely loved it and could not put it down, it was so good. I loved the storyline. It was so intense and a complete rollercoaster of emotions.
Alice was such a fun and intense characters to read about. And Jacob… loved him too! He was also intense and I loved how he saw through Alice all the time in the beginning and didn’t let it get to him… much. But he was a bit up and down for me in a couple parts. He says one thing but does the complete opposite and has a whole 360 different attitude in the space of 2 minutes, but he was still such a great character.
The interactions between those two were very emotional and very hot in some parts. I’m glad everyone got their happy ending in the end.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book

This book is amazing. You will need a cold shower after you finish it. Alice is a broken girl who feels unloved and unwanted by everyone. Jacob is her therapist and can help but want to fix this beautiful girl. Jacob also needs fixing after the number his ex wife did on him because he has "darker" needs.She has to move in with Jacob when her mother decides to chase her dream job. Over the course of the month Jacob and Alice give in to the attraction they have for each other.They seem to be perfect together and Jacob has found her dream woman because she embraces his darker side. They deal with ex wife, ex best friends who want to black mail them, and tearing down the walls they have build around themselves. Definitely read this book!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy.
WOW..JACOB..He really got my juices flowing.
I find a wide range of emotions reading Ms Starling's books.
I wasn't sure of the dr/patient relationship. Considering Alice is in high school her final year.
The father figure role Jacob is thrust into as her therapist; when Alice's mom gets a job out of town.
I really understood her issues and wanting to be invisible.
When her mom makes Jacob her guardian when she goes out of town Alice is able to start opening up to Jacob and slowly stop her self destructive behaviors.
..All you need is someone on your side to go on. To be loved and feel special and cherished.
..I loved the HEA
I recommend the book to mature readers 18 and over due to Braphic sex and some BDSM.

** spoiler alert ** Alice has been neglected all her life by a mom whom is more like a friend then a mother. When he mother's newest fantasy lands Alice in the hands of her therapist, now guardian, Jacob, will this be Alice and Jacob's fantasy come true or was it doomed before it began?

I loved this story and am a big Isabella Starling fan! This story is exactly what I love to read when it comes to older/younger romances! Loved the ticks and how both are able to come out of their shells together. Jacob is the first adult to actually care for Alice and I love the fact that he goes to bat for her time and time again regardless of the consequences for them. The only question I had is it brought up scars on his back and never said where he got them! Can't wait for more from this author!

So...I could feel my feminist side grinding while I read this book. If you don't like or can't handle a younger woman/older man book this isn't for you.
The age difference (which we never specifically found out how old Jacob is) was no big deal but him being her guardian and therapist was a little much for me, but I still couldn't put the book down.
Ms. Starling had a way of writing that just sucks you right in, even if the plot isn't your favorite.
Jacob and Alice are two very broken people and they manage to heal each other.
I am left with some unanswered questions about both of them and I am left wanting more....always a great thing to feel when a book is done.
* I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy and decided to leave my honest review

This book was fantastic!!! Isabella Starling is a author that never ever disappoints. She truly knows how to bring it from the very first sentence. Of course this book was no exception.

Alice was a beautifully damaged soul who had a mother that couldn't care less about her and Jacob was her therapist. They both wanted each other, but Jacob tried to deny it till she starts living with him. This book had it all taboo, steam, sweetness, revenge plots and a HEA! This is the perfect quick taboo read.

I loved Jacob genuine care for Alice, he truly wanted nothing but to put back the shattered pieces to make Alice whole. His love is what fixes her in the end.

I received a ARC copy of this book for a honest review and I loved it!!

very high four stars, but I prefer "His Brat" over this book, this is a book that bridges that gap, meaning.... in younger days in the world it was no biggie for people to have sex young ... now it is not the normal. ok, what i am always concerned about when it comes to any one ... are both individuals wanting to be there? desire to be there? consent, i guess is the word I wish to use there. ok, that put that aside now, moving totally away from that subject, forget it for a moment, i can do that, ... this book is hot & steamy ... wow wee, Isabelle can write ... I loved "His Brat" (totally different age range in that book. check it out if you have missed it.) I will be checking out more of her books. Great read. Fast read. ( ;

"I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book." It's Amazing!
This book is a little dark romance not as dark as some but a very good one. I enjoyed the story. Explicit sexual contact and no violence, but some minor BDSM scenes. I like the characters and how they interconnected with each other. Isabella Starling is fantastic author and I really enjoyed the story. It kept me intrigued and I couldn't put it down I thought my Kindle would catch on fire ? from all the heat projecting from the story ?. If you like the writing of Isbella Starling I suggest you grab your copy today and start reading. Enjoy!!! You're going to love it ❤️
I enjoy your writing, so here is 5 Stars and Thank you Isabella Starling!! Keep the books coming ?

I volunteered to read this book. It was really good. Has major drama, betrayal, and BDSM sex. Alice is a troubled young girl wanting affection that her mom is not showing her. She is being bullied in school and is hurting herself to cope. She has been seeing therapist Mr. Hawke for 2 years. She turns 18 and he keeps getting aroused by her. Her mother leaves town and leaves Alice in Jacob Hawke's care. She pays him but all he wants is her. Alice is a virgin and wants Jacob to be her first and he can not deny her. They end up having sex and he shows her the side if him (BDSM) He has problems with ex and lots of things happen in their relationship. Great book. I have read one other book from Isabella and I am now a fan. Can not wait for more.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Told in alternating first person by Alice and Jacob. At first glance, Alice is a bratty teen and Jacob is a conflicted therapist. The story starts with a good tease of a scene that promises a hot, dangerous and bumpy ride. Both characters are multi-layered with needs and wants that have never been met. They have both been betrayed by people who are supposed to love them. The subject matter is taboo (age difference, professional relationship, Dom/sub). This story is plausible and well-written with a dark tone - haunting and mesmerizing. There is a tension throughout that keeps the reader engaged, anticipating and awaiting satisfaction until the last sentence. It delivers.

Jacob Hawke has been 18 year old Alice's therapist for the past two years. When her mother decides to pursue a celebrity new-casting job in another state she makes Mr. Hawke Alice's guardian. Jacob has dark desires that he struggles with daily & Alice's desire to have him makes his struggles more difficult. A gratifying written and developed novel with no plot holes. With compelling character's that are realistic with real emotions and flaws. Alice is a beautiful girl with a damaged soul & Jacob is a sexy domineering alpha male with his own demons. This book is sweet & decadently delicious with twists. A very hot & sexy spicy forbidden love read that will not disappoint. I voluntarily reviewed and advance reading copy of this book.

I debated between 3 stars and 4 stars because frankly I was uncomfortable with the age of the h compared to the H, as well as the fact that the H was the school councillor to the h. It was all just out of my comfort level. But I decided to go with 4, since that was my personal problem and not a defect with the book or writing. After overlooking my personal discomfort, I found the writing style sexy and enjoyable, and the actual relationship between the characters compelling and even sweet. Even though I always love a HEA, I do like darker relationships like this one. I will probably read this author again if I can find something by her that is more in my comfort level. I voluntarily agreed to read and review an ARC of this book.

Omg this book had everything! The feels the drama and the alpha male! Jacob is a man who doesn't know if he should embrace Alice or if he should walk away like most men would when they smell trouble. Alice is a girl who is just trying to figure out who she is and what she wants , when she is finally Told that if she really wants what she says she wants she has to take it! They are thrown into several scenarios and both come out confused sometimes but eventually they get their acts together. This book makes you realize that not everyone wants the same things in life and different things make different folks happy. Glad I got to read this can't wait to see what is next. The sex in this book was hot and makes me wish I needed therapy lol

His Doll is an exciting, steamy yet taboo love story between young Alice and her sexy, older therapist Jacob. He has been attracted to her from the beginning but has kept his distance until they are thrown together by her mother who contracts him to care for and watch over her while she accepts a job out of town. Although Alice is a broken, young woman, she is incredibly attracted to Jacob. She taunts him and he finally gives in to his attraction. The two of them are SO good together in so many ways and pick up the pieces of their pasts as they find their perfect happily ever after. I can't wait to read what Isabella Starling has in store for us next! I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

"His Doll " was so worth the wait !!! Wow , what a hot dark taboo read .From the beginning it was like I watched everything unfold before my eyes instead of reading about it and from start to finish it was difficult putting this book down . An absolutely hot and amazing story of witch I loved every single thing : Jacob , an older therapist falling for his 18 year old patient Alice, falling for her deliciously broken mind and her submissive nature .
Highly recommend this story because you will be sucked into this delicious dark dirty and suspensful hot read , if you are a lover of dark romance . You won 't regret !!
Voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this dark and naughty story .

After reading some of the other reviews it seems some people had issues with this book and I guess I could understand where they are coming from but that doesn’t change the fact I loved this book. Jacob is supposed to be Alice’s therapist and is supposed to be helping her but instead he is lusting after her and when she is put under his care and sent to live with him he crosses the lines of professionalism. He tries to help Alice by controlling her which she enjoys but at first, she doesn’t know how to act and continues to misbehave and get punished. Can they keep their relationship a secrete or will it get out and ruin both of them? I love all of Isabella’s books and I can’t wait for the next one.

I love Isabella Starling's writing. I am voluntarily providing this review of an advanced reader copy of her book, His Doll. The subject matter is slightly taboo in that it is about a relationship between a school counselor and a student. Alice is a troubled young woman who has been coming to see Mr. Hawke for a couple of years at the behest of her mother. The same mother who doesn't seem to have time for her. Mr. Jacob Hawke has a dark side himself. Regardless, when her mother pays Mr. Hawke to let Alice live with him while she accept a job elsewhere, the attraction grows between them. One click on this story to find out how they reach their HEA. There is no Cliffhanger in this story. Good job Isabella

This was a quick read for me. A little raunchier than your average erotica read. It did bother me quit a bit though. At times it seemed like it was rushed and you were expected to know what was going on or it was very drawn out, there wasn't a steady pace. The author delves into psychology and some of it didn't make full sense to me. If your going to do mind screws then stay with it, don't fall short. Some may see the whole teacher student thing as taboo but no issue there. Some scenes were good and some were just plane weird or fell short. Also the characters seem to change quit often in the book so that confused me as well. A good read to pass the time though. KU read.

Jacob is a therapist who has treated Alice for the past two years. He is dominant, possessive, and intense. Alice is an eighteen year-old girl in her senior year of high school and she is a very messed up and needy girl. Alice is having a hard time with everything and it doesn't help that her mother moves to New York and forces her to move in with Jacob. Jacob and Alice are soon having private session that are hot and dirty. Throw in Jacob's Ex wife and a group of mean girls at Alice's school and this book was packed with drama. This was an excellent book and I would love to read a book about Tiffany getting a man. I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

Alice is 18 and although she lived with her Mother and has everything materially she could want she never received any attention or love. Jacob has been her therapist for two years however due to Alice’s Mother relocating for work she will be staying with Jacob. As they spend more time together they are deeply attracted to each other however the risks of acting on their feelings are immense. They are unable to avoid acting on their feelings however if there a compromise to be had between the submissive teenager and the dominant therapist? Isabella Starling has combined a great story line with characters that will draw you in. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

His doll is an exciting and heart-wrenching story.
Alice is mentally unstable, not least because of her egocentric mother. For years she has been in treatment with Jacob Hawke, whom she secretly loves. She has difficulties in school and hardly any friends.
Jacob Hawke is a young therapist who threatens to break because of his profession, while a Bad Boy and secretly in love with his patient Alice.
The feelings of the two protagonists escalate when Jacob is forced to take Alice into his house.
Both characters are quite credibly drawn by Isabella Starling.
I could hardly lay the book out of my hand.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
His Doll is a therapist/patient dark romance with some very hot scenes. Jacob has been treating Alice for 2 years when he becomes her guardian. The dynamic between the two quickly changes from professional to sexual and the scenes are smokin HOT. I enjoyed the book but parts of the story were a bit out of my comfort zone. The age difference, Dom/Sub situations, and a therapist that needed therapy as much as his patients at times turned me off. That being said that was my own hang ups and nothing to do with the writing. I will definitely continue to read anything Isabella writes.

Jacob is a therapist who has hidden desires and dark needs. Alice is his patient, a teenager who needs to grow up with an attitude adjustment. One day, Alice's mother gives Jacob a ludicrous proposal that he doesn't think twice about before accepting. Mama dearest will pay big bucks for her daughter to live with Jacob in a guardianship arrangement for one year while she moves out of state to further her career. This is like putting a fox in the hen house to protect the hens. What follows is a string of sexual fantasies brought to life wrapped around a story of romance. I  voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Four stars.

This book was really amazing. The things Alice went through and the way Jacob was able to help her get through it was both heart breaking and heart warming. I loved his dark side and his possessiveness over Alice. I really wish that teacher would have gotten some kind of payback or reprimand but oh well. I enjoyed everything about these characters and was really moved by all Alice went through to find her HEA. I have some experience with self harm and it's devastation and I think Ms. Starling really portrayed it well. Great work and I looked forward to reading more by this author.

Watching Jacob struggle with his desire for Alice is hot hot hot!!!! Alice is a 18 year old girl that knows what she wants.... well kind of. She has wanted Jacob Hawke for as long as she can remember and it isn't until her mom left her in his care for a year that things take the turn she was always hoping for. She makes the move she knows he's too afraid to make. After Jacob submits to his desire there is no turning back. The intensity of his feelings for her so quickly scares him. He doesn't realize until its almost too late that he can't live without her. Will Alice and Jacob get there happily ever after? You'll have to read to see....

I normally dont like dark romance, but Isabella Starling has changed my mind. His doll was amazing yes its dark and twisty. But apparently I love dark and twisty with a side of kinky hotness. Alice is troubled very troubled her mom checked out on her she has no friends and the only person she really has is her therapist. But he hurts her too. After finding out her mom leaving her and dumping her with Jacob her therapist she breaks. But that what he want her beautifully broken so he can put her together again. I loved how Alice came alive with Jacob. An awesome book with a great ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Review Copy of this book.

Another great read by Isabella Starling. A little bit on the dark side but not too much. The 'dark' part definitely is more about the age difference between the two main characters and the taboo nature of their relationship.

I enjoyed the book a lot but wish there had been a little bit more backstory for a few details. For instance what made Jacob the way he was...

As I mentioned, although a bit of a dark read it does have a happy ending for this couple. No cheating. Definitely worth the price for the read! Can't wait for Ms Starling's next book.

I voluntarily reviewed and advance reader copy of this book.

Wow! First, this book is so sizzling hot, I kept expecting my kindle to start smoking. Then, I realized that it was not the kindle getting hot, it was me getting all hot and bothered. Second, it is such a well written story that it will suck you right into it, and will not let you go. Also, Isabella Starling has done such a good job developing the characters, that you can feel their emotions, whether it is their pain, their sadness, their fear, their happiness, or their love. I voluntarily reviewed this advanced copy, and I highly recommend this book, as long as you read the warnings first, and you are ok with that. I loved it!