What do you think?
Rate this book
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie
Tazãr Bao, an expert Exorcist for the Guild of Magic, is about to have his world turned upside down. Yet again.
When Tazãr enters a sanctuărium for the Mages to receive a restorative spiritual energy treatment, he is reunited with the last person he ever expected to encounter—an Alpha Demon, Inuel Morhh, the one who’d left Tazãr with a shattered heart two years prior.
Can Tazãr find the strength to trust Inuel again? Can he forgive him? Will being thrown together in a place where they can’t revert to lies help them make sense of their past and build a future?
* * *
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a second-chance, forced proximity fantasy romance that follows a petite Exorcist Mage and an Alpha Demon with a penchant for kittens.
(This is an extended, revised and re-edited version of the story under the same title, which was made available exclusively for subscribers to the Magic Missive Newsletter in November 2023. The new material constitutes 40% of the book.)
When Tazãr enters a sanctuărium for the Mages to receive a restorative spiritual energy treatment, he is reunited with the last person he ever expected to encounter—an Alpha Demon, Inuel Morhh, the one who’d left Tazãr with a shattered heart two years prior.
Can Tazãr find the strength to trust Inuel again? Can he forgive him? Will being thrown together in a place where they can’t revert to lies help them make sense of their past and build a future?
* * *
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a second-chance, forced proximity fantasy romance that follows a petite Exorcist Mage and an Alpha Demon with a penchant for kittens.
(This is an extended, revised and re-edited version of the story under the same title, which was made available exclusively for subscribers to the Magic Missive Newsletter in November 2023. The new material constitutes 40% of the book.)
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2024
20 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Kasia Bacon
18 books352 followersA linguist and an avid reader with a particular fondness for fantasy and paranormal genres, KASIA BACON lives in London with her husband. When not tearing her hair out over a translating project, she writes stories about the shenanigans of emotionally constipated assassins and sexy Elves. Otherwise, she can be found shaking her loins at a Zumba class, binging on anime or admiring throwing knives on Pinterest. A lover of MMA and Muay Thai, she also enjoys nature and the great outdoors. She dreams of becoming independently wealthy, leaving the city and moving into her wooden mini-manor—located in the heart of stunning forests resembling those of the Elven Country depicted in her tales.
For excerpts, free stories and updates about new projects, sign up for Kasia’s newsletter at:
kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orderseries/ne...
https://linktr.ee/KasiaBacon
For excerpts, free stories and updates about new projects, sign up for Kasia’s newsletter at:
kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orderseries/ne...
https://linktr.ee/KasiaBacon
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 10, 2024
4.5 Stars
Well, that was freakin' cute. I was confused by the cover at first, because it looks too contemporary, but worry not. Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is pure magical fantasy set in Kasia Bacon's Order universe.
Tazãr is an exorcist working for the Guild of Mages and given his history of falling fast for the wrong people, I feel safe saying he's got horrible taste in men. And when he encounters one Alpha Demon who has clearly left a long line of broken hearts and pissed off ex's, it feels inevitable that his luck isn't about to change now.
Inuel was pretty likable, though, and to be honest, he surprised me a bit. There are some layers behind that cocky AF exterior. Plus, no one can be all bad when they cuddle a kitten. Am I right?
I never read the original novela, but I can definitely say I thoroughly enjoyed the expanded Where Exorcists Cannot Lie. It's sweet and a little spicy, and definitely hit all the cute notes, with a touch of snark. A win.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Well, that was freakin' cute. I was confused by the cover at first, because it looks too contemporary, but worry not. Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is pure magical fantasy set in Kasia Bacon's Order universe.
Tazãr is an exorcist working for the Guild of Mages and given his history of falling fast for the wrong people, I feel safe saying he's got horrible taste in men. And when he encounters one Alpha Demon who has clearly left a long line of broken hearts and pissed off ex's, it feels inevitable that his luck isn't about to change now.
Inuel was pretty likable, though, and to be honest, he surprised me a bit. There are some layers behind that cocky AF exterior. Plus, no one can be all bad when they cuddle a kitten. Am I right?
I never read the original novela, but I can definitely say I thoroughly enjoyed the expanded Where Exorcists Cannot Lie. It's sweet and a little spicy, and definitely hit all the cute notes, with a touch of snark. A win.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2024
There's a reason I call Kasia Bacon My Queen of the fantasy novella and this one is another perfect example why.
She is able, within such a specific length, to still give the reader a fully fleshed out story in which you can understand all the nuance of both the romance and any other secondary plotlines, without feeling like anything is missing.
Here we get a second chance romance, something even harder to pull off that doesn't always work in a full length story, between an alpha demon and an Exorcist, the specific type of Mage that's brought in to deal with them when they're running amok.
No spoilers, but I'll just say I adored every bit of this, from the prickly and vulnerable Taz, suffering from his feelings of abandonment, through the oozing sexual magnitude of Inuel, the demon who broke his heart, and the utterly spoilt little kitten that wraps them both around his cute paws.
It's a standalone within Kasia's fabulous Order Universe, so it's a great place to start if you've not read anything from her before. But I can very much recommend anything set within this fantastic fantasy world.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
She is able, within such a specific length, to still give the reader a fully fleshed out story in which you can understand all the nuance of both the romance and any other secondary plotlines, without feeling like anything is missing.
Here we get a second chance romance, something even harder to pull off that doesn't always work in a full length story, between an alpha demon and an Exorcist, the specific type of Mage that's brought in to deal with them when they're running amok.
No spoilers, but I'll just say I adored every bit of this, from the prickly and vulnerable Taz, suffering from his feelings of abandonment, through the oozing sexual magnitude of Inuel, the demon who broke his heart, and the utterly spoilt little kitten that wraps them both around his cute paws.
It's a standalone within Kasia's fabulous Order Universe, so it's a great place to start if you've not read anything from her before. But I can very much recommend anything set within this fantastic fantasy world.
#ARC kindly received from the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2024
Think I've read every book from this author so when there's a new one I come running 🤩 This time we got a prickly Mage who falls for a hot Alpha Demon. Again. Cause this is kind of a second chance romance. Filled with snark, magic and hot scenes. Everything you can wish for - rating it 😈😈😈😈
Currently reading
March 13, 2024💃💃💃💃 can’t wait!!!
Read
March 31, 2024~DNF~
Despite multiple attempts, I couldn't get into this story.
There's so much world building that it takes the focus away from the relationship. The first chapter ends when the exorcist (essentially a police officer for the magical community) and alpha demon (like a regular demon, but stronger) are about to fuck.
Yes, about to, because the scene ends before anything happens and the next chapter begins 2.5 years later.
I was bored out of my mind and started skimming. I kept putting this book on the back-burner to read other stories. It's time to accept defeat and move on.
To add: Kasia Bacon is clearly a talented writer. I can't fault her writing style. This is a case of "It's not you; it's me."
Despite multiple attempts, I couldn't get into this story.
There's so much world building that it takes the focus away from the relationship. The first chapter ends when the exorcist (essentially a police officer for the magical community) and alpha demon (like a regular demon, but stronger) are about to fuck.
Yes, about to, because the scene ends before anything happens and the next chapter begins 2.5 years later.
I was bored out of my mind and started skimming. I kept putting this book on the back-burner to read other stories. It's time to accept defeat and move on.
To add: Kasia Bacon is clearly a talented writer. I can't fault her writing style. This is a case of "It's not you; it's me."
March 15, 2024
4.5 stars - This was a really fun read! Less intense than I was perhaps expecting, but still hit a lot of different emotional beats.
We get a set up of how Tazãr and Inuel meet, and then we flash forward to when they've been apart/broken up for a couple of years. I can see the argument for giving us more of their initial relationship, but I also really enjoyed how in the sanctuǎrium Taz got to meditate on their past.
Is there such a thing as a locked room romance? This is probably the closest you'd get, and there is a lot of piecing together of clues from the past, as well. The fact that neither MC has access to their magic, nor the ability to lie, means that they have to either avoid or confront each other honestly (well, if they don't want to writhe in internal agony, that is).
Spoilery thoughts: Overall, this is a really clever piece of writing that respects the reader's time. I've enjoyed everything I've tried from this author so far, I really need to get into the backlist!
I kindly received an advanced copy from Gay Romance Reviews.
We get a set up of how Tazãr and Inuel meet, and then we flash forward to when they've been apart/broken up for a couple of years. I can see the argument for giving us more of their initial relationship, but I also really enjoyed how in the sanctuǎrium Taz got to meditate on their past.
Is there such a thing as a locked room romance? This is probably the closest you'd get, and there is a lot of piecing together of clues from the past, as well. The fact that neither MC has access to their magic, nor the ability to lie, means that they have to either avoid or confront each other honestly (well, if they don't want to writhe in internal agony, that is).
Spoilery thoughts: Overall, this is a really clever piece of writing that respects the reader's time. I've enjoyed everything I've tried from this author so far, I really need to get into the backlist!
I kindly received an advanced copy from Gay Romance Reviews.
July 28, 2025
I liked a lot about this book, but I had a few issues.
The beginning of the book starts out kind of disjointed. It starts when the two MCs initially meet due to Taz's job. They are super into each other and are about to hook up. Then the book jumps like two years ahead. We didn't see any of the time they were together before. We don't even know what happened/why they are no longer together. Then we are thrust into the present and they inadvertently (or not) meet at the sanctuărium.
I really enjoyed the world building we saw. I loved the cat. I loved their time together at the sanctuărium. Inuel turned out to be so sweet.
I just wanted MORE OF EVERYTHING. That being said, I'm intrigued by the world this novella falls into and will look into reading more from that series.
Last complaint - this cover is not it. LOL. It doesn't give any indication or vibe of what the story is actually about.
The beginning of the book starts out kind of disjointed. It starts when the two MCs initially meet due to Taz's job. They are super into each other and are about to hook up. Then the book jumps like two years ahead. We didn't see any of the time they were together before. We don't even know what happened/why they are no longer together. Then we are thrust into the present and they inadvertently (or not) meet at the sanctuărium.
I really enjoyed the world building we saw. I loved the cat. I loved their time together at the sanctuărium. Inuel turned out to be so sweet.
I just wanted MORE OF EVERYTHING. That being said, I'm intrigued by the world this novella falls into and will look into reading more from that series.
Last complaint - this cover is not it. LOL. It doesn't give any indication or vibe of what the story is actually about.
March 22, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This isn’t the first time I am going to tell you how much I like Kasia Bacon’s writing. She excels at creating a complete story in a shorter length here, and there is magic between Tazãr and Inuel. This book is listed as part of the Order Universe, but it does stand alone.
There is subtle yet comprehensive world building, as well as sweet moments mixed in with dry humor, as the men reconnect and sort out their relationship and I appreciate how the title tied into the story. There’s also a cat.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This isn’t the first time I am going to tell you how much I like Kasia Bacon’s writing. She excels at creating a complete story in a shorter length here, and there is magic between Tazãr and Inuel. This book is listed as part of the Order Universe, but it does stand alone.
There is subtle yet comprehensive world building, as well as sweet moments mixed in with dry humor, as the men reconnect and sort out their relationship and I appreciate how the title tied into the story. There’s also a cat.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
March 15, 2024
I read this initially when it was part of the Magic Missive newsletter and really enjoyed it then. Now that it has been expanded, it is even better and Taz and Inuel have become one of my favorite couples from this author. The story is a unique look at second chance romance through a paranormal/fantasy lens, pairing up an exorcist/mage and a demon.
We get to see how the two first meet, with both of them pretty smug and confident in their own abilities, and how their relationship starts off the first time around. Inuel is very sure of himself, the ever-cocky, quintessential alpha demon. While I usually find that type of character annoying, there was something about Inuel’s attitude that just intrigued me from the moment he appeared on the page.
Fast forward to when these two meet again, and we find Taz about to enter a retreat of sorts where he must go from time to time to relax and recharge his spiritual energy. He’s surprised to find Inuel there as well, and in a right sad state to boot. From there they have a tentative re-meet until eventually all of the physical attraction that dominated their first pairing boils over again.
But beyond the physical we find the two getting to know each other again, settling into a comfortable routine, and discovering many other aspects where they mesh together so well. It’s almost domestic *gasp!*…and since neither can leave until their spiritual energy treatment/renewal is complete, the forced proximity their encounter this time around gives them the chance to become reacquainted without everything revolving around a physical relationship.
I loved the way everything turned out between them, and the interesting effect of not being able to lie while they are in this retreat without feeling at a minimum discomfort and a maximum intense pain added an interesting dimension to the entire story. I hope we get to see more of Inuel and Taz in future Order Universe books, and for this story I’m giving all five stars to this fantastic couple.
We get to see how the two first meet, with both of them pretty smug and confident in their own abilities, and how their relationship starts off the first time around. Inuel is very sure of himself, the ever-cocky, quintessential alpha demon. While I usually find that type of character annoying, there was something about Inuel’s attitude that just intrigued me from the moment he appeared on the page.
Fast forward to when these two meet again, and we find Taz about to enter a retreat of sorts where he must go from time to time to relax and recharge his spiritual energy. He’s surprised to find Inuel there as well, and in a right sad state to boot. From there they have a tentative re-meet until eventually all of the physical attraction that dominated their first pairing boils over again.
But beyond the physical we find the two getting to know each other again, settling into a comfortable routine, and discovering many other aspects where they mesh together so well. It’s almost domestic *gasp!*…and since neither can leave until their spiritual energy treatment/renewal is complete, the forced proximity their encounter this time around gives them the chance to become reacquainted without everything revolving around a physical relationship.
I loved the way everything turned out between them, and the interesting effect of not being able to lie while they are in this retreat without feeling at a minimum discomfort and a maximum intense pain added an interesting dimension to the entire story. I hope we get to see more of Inuel and Taz in future Order Universe books, and for this story I’m giving all five stars to this fantastic couple.
Read
March 10, 2024I try not to request arcs for new-to-me authors but I’m a sucker for demon romances and “exorcist” being in the title had me intrigued.
Unfortunately exorcist here seems to mean magical police officer and there was so much world building in this short novella that I was bored. So much of it was unnecessary. The romance as well was too little, too late despite me liking both characters and the potential their story had. As part of a greater series this might be a nice treat but as a standalone I was unsatisfied.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Unfortunately exorcist here seems to mean magical police officer and there was so much world building in this short novella that I was bored. So much of it was unnecessary. The romance as well was too little, too late despite me liking both characters and the potential their story had. As part of a greater series this might be a nice treat but as a standalone I was unsatisfied.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
March 13, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up.
Another sexy couple in Kasia Bacon's The Order Universe!
It's not my favourite couple and not my favourite story in this magical world, but the Alpha Demon Inuel and the feisty little Exorcist Tazar were still delicious together ;)
The novella is on the shorter side and is less action-packed than some previous stories in the universe but the writing style is flowing and beautiful (as usual with this author) and the dialogues are funny and snarky like hell. We also get some yummy steamy time, folks!
This time we get a second-chance romance and a forced proximity trope, which is new for the series and my only quibble is a too lazy pace of the plot - I prefer some crazy-arse Elven missions done by Ervyn and Lochan, LOL.
If you already know The Order Universe, you probably know what to expect from this story: smooth narration, sexy/cute MCs and a well-developed, magic-infused world that I will definitely come back to :)
If you're new to Kasia Bacon's works - I hope you'll let yourselves get immersed in this great, intricate world, full of many different peoples and races, and of MCs that experience a lot of audacious and magical adventures. It's one of my favourite fantasy series after all :)
Another sexy couple in Kasia Bacon's The Order Universe!
It's not my favourite couple and not my favourite story in this magical world, but the Alpha Demon Inuel and the feisty little Exorcist Tazar were still delicious together ;)
The novella is on the shorter side and is less action-packed than some previous stories in the universe but the writing style is flowing and beautiful (as usual with this author) and the dialogues are funny and snarky like hell. We also get some yummy steamy time, folks!
This time we get a second-chance romance and a forced proximity trope, which is new for the series and my only quibble is a too lazy pace of the plot - I prefer some crazy-arse Elven missions done by Ervyn and Lochan, LOL.
If you already know The Order Universe, you probably know what to expect from this story: smooth narration, sexy/cute MCs and a well-developed, magic-infused world that I will definitely come back to :)
If you're new to Kasia Bacon's works - I hope you'll let yourselves get immersed in this great, intricate world, full of many different peoples and races, and of MCs that experience a lot of audacious and magical adventures. It's one of my favourite fantasy series after all :)
March 17, 2024
3.5
Maybe I’m a different reader from when I first devoured all of Kasia’s books, but this one didn’t work for me. It’s been a while since I read the others and even for me was difficult to get in the order universe…I also don’t like this cover… it doesn’t fit Kasia’s aesthetic…
She writes wonderfully, it’s captivating, the characters so interesting, but we get a ton of world building,tons os weird names for magical stuff, but not enough character development, and because of that their story gets lost…
Tazãn and Inuel were such great characters and deserved more that 100 pages or 1 month… we deserved their first time together, their break up, their suffering… and because we didn’t it felt flat honestly… and come on an exorcist and alpha demon? How would this be a miss? The sex people… super hot and just to my taste, the size difference and the alpha possessive protection, spot on… the knotting 🥵🥵 but…. Short if you ask me… like all the rest.
What we did miss was quality groveling, and got none… one explanation and were good and start with the ILY? 🙄
I wish she wrote longer stories because her characters richness would make incredible novels 🖤
Maybe I’m a different reader from when I first devoured all of Kasia’s books, but this one didn’t work for me. It’s been a while since I read the others and even for me was difficult to get in the order universe…I also don’t like this cover… it doesn’t fit Kasia’s aesthetic…
She writes wonderfully, it’s captivating, the characters so interesting, but we get a ton of world building,tons os weird names for magical stuff, but not enough character development, and because of that their story gets lost…
Tazãn and Inuel were such great characters and deserved more that 100 pages or 1 month… we deserved their first time together, their break up, their suffering… and because we didn’t it felt flat honestly… and come on an exorcist and alpha demon? How would this be a miss? The sex people… super hot and just to my taste, the size difference and the alpha possessive protection, spot on… the knotting 🥵🥵 but…. Short if you ask me… like all the rest.
What we did miss was quality groveling, and got none… one explanation and were good and start with the ILY? 🙄
I wish she wrote longer stories because her characters richness would make incredible novels 🖤
Read
April 27, 20243.5
I'm a Kasia Bacon fan from the start. How could I not when she's so good at world building and populating that world with interesting characters and that even in her short stories but this time she missed it. It starts with the uninspired cover, then there is the untimely end of the prologue and while the reunite was enjoyably sweet, I missed a bit more depth and if I'm honest I also prefer fantasy romances with at least a side dish of adventure or action.
That said you like to read patrícia's review. I totally agree with everything she wrote.
I'm a Kasia Bacon fan from the start. How could I not when she's so good at world building and populating that world with interesting characters and that even in her short stories but this time she missed it. It starts with the uninspired cover, then there is the untimely end of the prologue and while the reunite was enjoyably sweet, I missed a bit more depth and if I'm honest I also prefer fantasy romances with at least a side dish of adventure or action.
That said you like to read patrícia's review. I totally agree with everything she wrote.
April 15, 2025
Kasia Bacon always puts such unique and creative twists in her stories, and Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is so clever! I always enjoy tales of magic and sorcery, and nobody has a better imagination than Kasia Bacon when it comes to painting a picture of a dark and sultry world.
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a second chance romance which adds a whole additional layer of fabulousness to this story. Super powerful.
The audio version of Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is beautifully performed by Rowan Scott.
an audiobook copy of Where Exorcists Cannot Lie was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a second chance romance which adds a whole additional layer of fabulousness to this story. Super powerful.
The audio version of Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is beautifully performed by Rowan Scott.
an audiobook copy of Where Exorcists Cannot Lie was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
June 14, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up - this grew on me!
Second chance, exorcist and demon end up magic-less and under a truth oath resting and forced together at a sanctuary for a month.
Insert cozy vibes, domestic bliss, a kitten, and honesty.
Audio ARC provided from GRR.
Second chance, exorcist and demon end up magic-less and under a truth oath resting and forced together at a sanctuary for a month.
Insert cozy vibes, domestic bliss, a kitten, and honesty.
Audio ARC provided from GRR.
March 17, 2024
3.5 stars
Read
March 15, 2024💖⭐WHERE EXORCISTS CANNOT LIE is now live!!!⭐💖
Available from Amazon and KU. Go and get your portion of demonic fun!
I loved writing (and then rewriting, haha) this story, so I really hope you’ll ALL buy it and read it super pronto.
I wrinkled my nose at her teasing and scoffed. “Please. I’m a professional. As if I would ever fall for—”
Then I remembered the incubus. The spellcaster. And the fire demon. My mouth closed with a soft pop.
Ebook 📕:
US: https://amzn.to/3T9D16e
UK: https://amzn.to/48MzEba
Paperback (really pretty!!!) 📚:
US: https://amzn.to/3TwDKzS
UK: https://amzn.to/3TwUFCq
A Romance Between an Exorcist Mage and an Alpha Demon:
❤️ Second-chance
❤️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Size Difference
❤️ Demon Hero
❤️ Alpha Hero
❤️ Knotting
Available from Amazon and KU. Go and get your portion of demonic fun!
I loved writing (and then rewriting, haha) this story, so I really hope you’ll ALL buy it and read it super pronto.
I wrinkled my nose at her teasing and scoffed. “Please. I’m a professional. As if I would ever fall for—”
Then I remembered the incubus. The spellcaster. And the fire demon. My mouth closed with a soft pop.
Ebook 📕:
US: https://amzn.to/3T9D16e
UK: https://amzn.to/48MzEba
Paperback (really pretty!!!) 📚:
US: https://amzn.to/3TwDKzS
UK: https://amzn.to/3TwUFCq
A Romance Between an Exorcist Mage and an Alpha Demon:
❤️ Second-chance
❤️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Size Difference
❤️ Demon Hero
❤️ Alpha Hero
❤️ Knotting
April 21, 2025
4.5 stars for the narration, 3 stars for the story - 3.75 stars rounded up.
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a novella-length story (the audio comes in at three hours twelve minutes) set in Kasia Bacon’s The Order universe, although the storyline is not related to any of the others in the series so it can be listened to as a standalone. It’s a second-chance/forced-proximity romance between an Exorcist – a magical law enforcement officer – and an Alpha Demon, who reconnect a couple of years after their relationship crashed and burned and discover that their connection is as strong as ever.
Tazãr Bao, Exorcist for the Guild of Magic is sent to investigate the possibly illegal activities being carried out by Alpha Demon, Inuel Morhh. Tazãr is unprepared for the strength of the mutual attraction pulling them together, or for their magics to mesh together so perfectly; and even though he knows that Alpha Demons never commit – they don’t know how to – he allows himself to fall for the demon anyway.
We then jump forward two-and-a-half years to find an exhausted Taz heading for the month-long retreat mandated for his kind so he can rest and receive a restorative spiritual energy treatment before returning to his job. The sanctuărium for Mages is under a magical field that dampens its visitors’ magic and also means they cannot lie while they’re there. Taz is looking forward to the break – until he discovers that he is sharing quarters with none other than his former lover, Inuel. Taz has never really got over their breakup so the last thing he needs is to be stuck with the demon who broke his heart; but keeping his guard up is going to be hard, especially as the anti-lying spell causes pain every time he’s less than truthful.
I’m a fan of second-chance romances in general, because I really enjoy seeing the characters falling in love again and with the people they are now – but the short run-time of this one doesn’t allow for much development of anything in this story. We don’t get to see the original romance develop – the chapter where Taz and Inuel meet for the first time ends with them about to have sex and fades to black, and then there’s the two-and-a-half year time jump where we find Taz still bitter about their break-up, which is hard to credit without seeing that relationship develop and end. We’re just told it happened and are given minimal details, and although the reasons for the lack of detail are made clear by the end, it still makes it hard to understand why Taz is so upset and angry after more than two years.
And the second-chance romance is poorly served as well. When Taz arrives at the retreat, it’s to find Inuel seriously ill; he nurses him back to health and they proceed to live side-by-side fairly amicably, have a fair bit of sex and ‘poof!’ last minute explanation and forgiveness, The End.
I freely admit that this audiobook caught my eye because of Rowan Scott’s name on the cover. He did an incredible job with the narration in LJ Hayward’s Death and the Devil series (one of my all-time favourites) and I’ve been hoping for ages that he’d do some more audiobook work, so I was delighted at having the opportunity to listen to him again. His performance is excellent – well-paced and expressive with good vocal characterisations and clear differentiation so there’s never any confusion as to who is speaking in any given scene. The two leads are portrayed really well, the low huskiness of Inuel’s voice helping to depict him as physically imposing, while the higher-pitched, slightly clipped tones adopted for Taz work to show him as tightly wound with an underlying vulnerability he tries hard to hide. I really hope to see Mr. Scott’s name appearing on more m/m audiobooks!
In the end, I think I’d have enjoyed this story more had it been longer with more time for actual character and relationship development. The narration is great, but while Where Exorcists Cannot Lie has some really good bones, there isn’t enough meat on them.
Where Exorcists Cannot Lie is a novella-length story (the audio comes in at three hours twelve minutes) set in Kasia Bacon’s The Order universe, although the storyline is not related to any of the others in the series so it can be listened to as a standalone. It’s a second-chance/forced-proximity romance between an Exorcist – a magical law enforcement officer – and an Alpha Demon, who reconnect a couple of years after their relationship crashed and burned and discover that their connection is as strong as ever.
Tazãr Bao, Exorcist for the Guild of Magic is sent to investigate the possibly illegal activities being carried out by Alpha Demon, Inuel Morhh. Tazãr is unprepared for the strength of the mutual attraction pulling them together, or for their magics to mesh together so perfectly; and even though he knows that Alpha Demons never commit – they don’t know how to – he allows himself to fall for the demon anyway.
We then jump forward two-and-a-half years to find an exhausted Taz heading for the month-long retreat mandated for his kind so he can rest and receive a restorative spiritual energy treatment before returning to his job. The sanctuărium for Mages is under a magical field that dampens its visitors’ magic and also means they cannot lie while they’re there. Taz is looking forward to the break – until he discovers that he is sharing quarters with none other than his former lover, Inuel. Taz has never really got over their breakup so the last thing he needs is to be stuck with the demon who broke his heart; but keeping his guard up is going to be hard, especially as the anti-lying spell causes pain every time he’s less than truthful.
I’m a fan of second-chance romances in general, because I really enjoy seeing the characters falling in love again and with the people they are now – but the short run-time of this one doesn’t allow for much development of anything in this story. We don’t get to see the original romance develop – the chapter where Taz and Inuel meet for the first time ends with them about to have sex and fades to black, and then there’s the two-and-a-half year time jump where we find Taz still bitter about their break-up, which is hard to credit without seeing that relationship develop and end. We’re just told it happened and are given minimal details, and although the reasons for the lack of detail are made clear by the end, it still makes it hard to understand why Taz is so upset and angry after more than two years.
And the second-chance romance is poorly served as well. When Taz arrives at the retreat, it’s to find Inuel seriously ill; he nurses him back to health and they proceed to live side-by-side fairly amicably, have a fair bit of sex and ‘poof!’ last minute explanation and forgiveness, The End.
I freely admit that this audiobook caught my eye because of Rowan Scott’s name on the cover. He did an incredible job with the narration in LJ Hayward’s Death and the Devil series (one of my all-time favourites) and I’ve been hoping for ages that he’d do some more audiobook work, so I was delighted at having the opportunity to listen to him again. His performance is excellent – well-paced and expressive with good vocal characterisations and clear differentiation so there’s never any confusion as to who is speaking in any given scene. The two leads are portrayed really well, the low huskiness of Inuel’s voice helping to depict him as physically imposing, while the higher-pitched, slightly clipped tones adopted for Taz work to show him as tightly wound with an underlying vulnerability he tries hard to hide. I really hope to see Mr. Scott’s name appearing on more m/m audiobooks!
In the end, I think I’d have enjoyed this story more had it been longer with more time for actual character and relationship development. The narration is great, but while Where Exorcists Cannot Lie has some really good bones, there isn’t enough meat on them.
March 13, 2024
Very entertaining, well-written story that will make you blush, laugh, and want for more
All I can say it is an amazing storytelling, well - written full of magic, and despite being novella, it tells a fully fleshed story of romance, humor, and some serious blushing along the way. Main characters are well-matched, full of emotion and entertaining, not to mention oh so handsome... And as always, the author makes the opposites attract in such an easy way that You can't help yourself, as to just fall in love with the characters straight away.
All I can say it is an amazing storytelling, well - written full of magic, and despite being novella, it tells a fully fleshed story of romance, humor, and some serious blushing along the way. Main characters are well-matched, full of emotion and entertaining, not to mention oh so handsome... And as always, the author makes the opposites attract in such an easy way that You can't help yourself, as to just fall in love with the characters straight away.
March 10, 2025
I love this universe so much, from the map at the beginning and the glossary to the final ‘The End’, I devour every word with relish.
Excellent world building and interesting characters. The main body of the story is told from Taz’s pov with Inuel’s pov only appearing in the epilogue. In essence this is a forced proximity and ultimately a domestic tale about learning to trust again after someone has broken your heart.
My only complaint? I wish it was longer. I wish we’d been privy to some more of that first time around. So I could have felt Taz’s confusion and devastation realising Inuel had left him without word.
I read that the author has fallen in love with these characters, well, so did I and I’d love to read some of their adventures just doing their job. It sounds chaotic.
Excellent world building and interesting characters. The main body of the story is told from Taz’s pov with Inuel’s pov only appearing in the epilogue. In essence this is a forced proximity and ultimately a domestic tale about learning to trust again after someone has broken your heart.
My only complaint? I wish it was longer. I wish we’d been privy to some more of that first time around. So I could have felt Taz’s confusion and devastation realising Inuel had left him without word.
I read that the author has fallen in love with these characters, well, so did I and I’d love to read some of their adventures just doing their job. It sounds chaotic.
March 14, 2024
5,25 *so great* stars!
This full fleshed version of the same original story published in a shorter version is everything I wanted it to be!
I’m really invested in The Order universe and Mrs. Bacon is a master at creating the feel of a 300 pages book for half the length with 3D characters that you feel have a whole backstory and past even if you only read a page about them, and with a wonderful worldbuilding that we discover through the eyes of many different characters from various situations, races and locations. It gives this feeling of a dense and luxuriant background that I crave in all my read stories.
I loved the addition of the prologue (how Taz and Inuel met) and the epilogue (what’s going on after they leave the sanctuary), and more domestic little moments at the sanctuary between our MCs. It was a delight to read and they all were things I would have loved more developed in the shorter version so I felt very fulfilled <3
Taz is this very hardworking, passionate and dedicated exorcist and Inuel embodied the mischievous alpha demon that likes to play with the line of legal dealings. They can’t resist each other even if it’s not in their plans (quite the contrary) and things happen for our lovers to deserve a second chance (there were good reasons for the estrangement and it does endear you Inuel who shows a softer side and readiness to enter in Taz’s good graces again).
Wonderful addition for The Order universe, but I never doubted it.
Keep them coming Dear Kasia ❤️
This full fleshed version of the same original story published in a shorter version is everything I wanted it to be!
I’m really invested in The Order universe and Mrs. Bacon is a master at creating the feel of a 300 pages book for half the length with 3D characters that you feel have a whole backstory and past even if you only read a page about them, and with a wonderful worldbuilding that we discover through the eyes of many different characters from various situations, races and locations. It gives this feeling of a dense and luxuriant background that I crave in all my read stories.
I loved the addition of the prologue (how Taz and Inuel met) and the epilogue (what’s going on after they leave the sanctuary), and more domestic little moments at the sanctuary between our MCs. It was a delight to read and they all were things I would have loved more developed in the shorter version so I felt very fulfilled <3
Taz is this very hardworking, passionate and dedicated exorcist and Inuel embodied the mischievous alpha demon that likes to play with the line of legal dealings. They can’t resist each other even if it’s not in their plans (quite the contrary) and things happen for our lovers to deserve a second chance (there were good reasons for the estrangement and it does endear you Inuel who shows a softer side and readiness to enter in Taz’s good graces again).
Wonderful addition for The Order universe, but I never doubted it.
Keep them coming Dear Kasia ❤️
March 18, 2024
4.5 stars
This isn’t the first time I am going to tell you how much I like Kasia Bacon’s writing. She excels at creating a complete story in a shorter length here and there is magic between Tazãr and Inuel. This book is listed as part of The Order Universe but does stand alone.
Tazãr’s role as an exorcist is more patrolling magical law than what you think of when you hear the word exorcist. They are opposites in most ways and on the opposite side of the law, but Inuel has gotten himself over his head. Tazãr is mesmerized by the demon, but he still performs his job and then the men act on their attraction.
We see them again a few years later when Tazãr is still heartbroken at the loss of Inuel with no explanation. The retreat Tazãr is sent to is a place where it is impossible to lie and that becomes a challenge for Tazãr but not for Inuel as he wants Tazãr to know the truth and he simply wants Tazãr. Tazãr has his guard up as he knows demons don’t commit but he longs to be with him again.
There is subtle yet comprehensive world building as well as sweet moments mixed in with dry humor as the men reconnect and sort out their relationship and I appreciate how the title tied into the story. I would have liked to see more of the early part of their relationship before they had to mend what was broken as that would have elevated the story a bit more for me. At the end of the book is an excerpt for Bacon’s earliest book in The Order Universe and it made me nostalgic for those characters. So read this book about Tazãr and Inuel and then read that book and get caught up with Lochan and Ervyn.
April 24, 2025
4.5 stars for the narrator. He does an excellent job with this book.
3.5 stars for the story
Tazar is an exorcist who works for the Guild of Mages. He is sent on a mission to warn an Alpha Demon who may be breaking the law. When he encounters the Alpha Demon there is an immediate attraction. Tazar (Taz) does his job very thoroughly. Unfortunately for Taz, who should know better, Alpha Demons do not know how to commit.
The relationship with said Alpha Demon ends and the story jumps forward to 2 and half years later from the first encounter. Taz is burned out and is required to get rest. The place where he is to go has a magical field that takes away all powers and prevents those who stay from lying. Taz is to spend 30 days there. Seems like a great plan until he encounters the other guest his former lover aka the Alpha Demon.
This book was short but, as always, the author is able to pack enough. I liked Taz's and Inuel's relationship. When they were stuck in the sanctuarium together it was the best part of the story. Since they were unable to lie they had to face their truths. This was much harder for Taz and he suffered the consequences with every lie he told. It seems there was more to Inuel's departure than Taz expected. When all was revealed and they got their HEA I was a happy reader.
March 16, 2024
It’s the little things that help makes read that much more. I love when fantasy books come with maps! They are so extremely helpful and fun! I highly recommend all fantasy books invest in maps for their reads. And the glossary is amazing!
This was a quick read at just over 100 pages. Easy to finish it in a single afternoon. I would recommend checking out the rest of the books in the Order Universe. This was just a novella in that same universe. If you’re well versed in the language of the universe then it’s even quicker. There’s a lot of scene breaks in each chapter, not a big fan of that.
Tazãr & Inuel have a history, and have troubles escaping from their shared history. It’s a fast burn, with lots of sexual tension. That soon smooths itself out.
Overall, it was a decent, quick read.
*Reader Note: I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews (GRR) and this is my honest review.
This was a quick read at just over 100 pages. Easy to finish it in a single afternoon. I would recommend checking out the rest of the books in the Order Universe. This was just a novella in that same universe. If you’re well versed in the language of the universe then it’s even quicker. There’s a lot of scene breaks in each chapter, not a big fan of that.
Tazãr & Inuel have a history, and have troubles escaping from their shared history. It’s a fast burn, with lots of sexual tension. That soon smooths itself out.
Overall, it was a decent, quick read.
*Reader Note: I received a free copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews (GRR) and this is my honest review.
March 23, 2024
Rating: 4.25 stars (8.5/10)
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes: demon x exorcist, second chance, forced proximity, healing retreat, misunderstanding
Review:
This was a short and sweet story which you could feel the depth of world building that already exists around this book, and I loved getting a little glimpse into this world, as well as getting to know both of these characters. Taz is just sad and tired and upset, and doesn't expect to have to occupy the same space as Inuel, also in a place where lying will inflict physical pain on you. I loved having the single POV, especially as we don't know what Inuel is thinking and don't know his side of the story, if there's even a reason for the way he broke Taz's heart. There is very little on-page spice in this story, but I did very much enjoy their dynamic. The author hinted at wanting to visit them again in the future, and I would love to read more of them.
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes: demon x exorcist, second chance, forced proximity, healing retreat, misunderstanding
Review:
This was a short and sweet story which you could feel the depth of world building that already exists around this book, and I loved getting a little glimpse into this world, as well as getting to know both of these characters. Taz is just sad and tired and upset, and doesn't expect to have to occupy the same space as Inuel, also in a place where lying will inflict physical pain on you. I loved having the single POV, especially as we don't know what Inuel is thinking and don't know his side of the story, if there's even a reason for the way he broke Taz's heart. There is very little on-page spice in this story, but I did very much enjoy their dynamic. The author hinted at wanting to visit them again in the future, and I would love to read more of them.
March 13, 2024
Kasia Bacon writes THE BEST fantasy romance—not only because her characters are interesting and likable—but because her world building is so believable that I fall right into her stories every time. In Where Exorcists Cannot Lie, we get to know Tazar and Inuel. They find themselves in quite an awkward scenario, and I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to find out how they would sort out their situation. I certainly hope that we will get a follow-up story about this couple because I adore both MCs. Plus, we get to meet an adorable cat, and I hope to see more of him, too! Eagerly awaiting more.
March 10, 2024
Oh this was soooo good!!! Second chances are one of my favorite tropes to read and I also happen to enjoy the Order Universe Kasia Bacon has created. Taz and Inuel have a history..the kind that left Taz with a broken heart and a metaphorical hole in his chest. But what is going to happen when he comes to a sanctuary for renewal and rest only to find himself stuck there for 30 days with the one who stomped on his feelings? This story left me feeling all warm and fuzzy afterwards and I can’t recommend this book enough if you are a fan of happy endings.
April 22, 2025
I enjoyed this fantastical world of different paranormal creatures. Throw in a second chance romance and it was a lovely story. Not too angsty...little bit spicy with the forced proximity and the MCs couldn't help worked through their issues renew the love. This is my first with this author and I believe with this narrator also.. Very good performance. He did the voices well and made it very entertaining. Loved the ending.
November 3, 2024
To make matters worse, I sensed Morhh’s spiritual energy at the same time— strong, dense in texture and surprisingly refined. My own aura longed to bask within its proximity and pressed forward to nestle and snuggle with the demonic field like a lost puppy, drawn to it to such an extent it gave me a fright. And an instant boner.
Forced proximity where a second chance seems too painful to consider. Lots of caretaking, heartache, and eating together, it's a nice slice-of-life story once they are trapped together. The beginning has a lot more world-building, I'm really into this Order Universe!
“It’s just you and me now, Little Mage,” he said. "However, you’re awfully far away for what I have in mind.”>
It's not fun when someone just ups and disappears on you, but two years later they're tapped together for 30 days. Great job with the emotional rollercoaster and eventually coming back together.
Wood- chopping? Shirtless. Carrying water while balancing two buckets on a shoulder pole? Shirtless. Doing dishes, his arms elbow- deep in soapy foam? Yup, shirtless again.
Finally, a size difference that pays attention to logistics:
“What if I bent you over this table and fucked you hard and fast?” he growled. “What would you say to that?”
“Shh.” Inuel reappeared, a low kitchen stool in his hands. “We just need a tiny adjustment. Now hop on it, bend over and hold on to the table.”
Nice angst, no instant forgiveness, cute pet names, and a kitten!
The notion of protecting myself against emotions came like mustard after dinner; way too late. Not only was I heading for Gettinghurtton— I already owned a fucking house in the centre of the town and ran for mayor.
MC Names: Tazãr (Taz) & Inuel
Tags: Fantasy, petite Exorcist mage/alpha demon pairing, queernorm world, forced proximity (in restricted close quarters), second chance, hurt/comfort, size difference, whitefanging (off-page), kitten, pet name: little mage
Forced proximity where a second chance seems too painful to consider. Lots of caretaking, heartache, and eating together, it's a nice slice-of-life story once they are trapped together. The beginning has a lot more world-building, I'm really into this Order Universe!
“It’s just you and me now, Little Mage,” he said. "However, you’re awfully far away for what I have in mind.”>
It's not fun when someone just ups and disappears on you, but two years later they're tapped together for 30 days. Great job with the emotional rollercoaster and eventually coming back together.
Wood- chopping? Shirtless. Carrying water while balancing two buckets on a shoulder pole? Shirtless. Doing dishes, his arms elbow- deep in soapy foam? Yup, shirtless again.
Finally, a size difference that pays attention to logistics:
“What if I bent you over this table and fucked you hard and fast?” he growled. “What would you say to that?”
“Shh.” Inuel reappeared, a low kitchen stool in his hands. “We just need a tiny adjustment. Now hop on it, bend over and hold on to the table.”
Nice angst, no instant forgiveness, cute pet names, and a kitten!
The notion of protecting myself against emotions came like mustard after dinner; way too late. Not only was I heading for Gettinghurtton— I already owned a fucking house in the centre of the town and ran for mayor.
MC Names: Tazãr (Taz) & Inuel
Tags: Fantasy, petite Exorcist mage/alpha demon pairing, queernorm world, forced proximity (in restricted close quarters), second chance, hurt/comfort, size difference, whitefanging (off-page), kitten, pet name: little mage
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews