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Priest #4
Devil
Not yet published
Expected 11 Aug 26Win a free print copy of this book!
12 days and 13:17:45
25 copies available
U.S. only
Birdie Cooper has nothing left.
Just one moment of weakness seven years ago—and she lost her job, her church, her only friend. Now she's working nights at a gas station to scrape together a living and a way to care for her sister, completely alone and separated even from the art that gave her life meaning.
Ryan Bell has never forgotten his first obsession.
He's been trying to find the tremblingly shy lecturer from his senior year of college after she abruptly disappeared after their first and only kiss. So when he comes upon a statue of Lucifer carved in Ryan's own likeness, two things become starkly apparent.
One: he knows how to find her now. And two: he's been haunting Birdie Cooper's memory as much as she's been haunting his.
Ryan can't offer love—or even an apology—but he can offer her a bargain, one crafted first and foremost to free him from his punishing obsession with her. If Birdie agrees to be his in every way for a single year, then he'll pay for her mother's care for as long as she's alive. And what does Birdie have left to lose anyway? The forbidden fruit is her only chance at salvation.
Unfortunately for Birdie, she might just be the only chance for his...
Just one moment of weakness seven years ago—and she lost her job, her church, her only friend. Now she's working nights at a gas station to scrape together a living and a way to care for her sister, completely alone and separated even from the art that gave her life meaning.
Ryan Bell has never forgotten his first obsession.
He's been trying to find the tremblingly shy lecturer from his senior year of college after she abruptly disappeared after their first and only kiss. So when he comes upon a statue of Lucifer carved in Ryan's own likeness, two things become starkly apparent.
One: he knows how to find her now. And two: he's been haunting Birdie Cooper's memory as much as she's been haunting his.
Ryan can't offer love—or even an apology—but he can offer her a bargain, one crafted first and foremost to free him from his punishing obsession with her. If Birdie agrees to be his in every way for a single year, then he'll pay for her mother's care for as long as she's alive. And what does Birdie have left to lose anyway? The forbidden fruit is her only chance at salvation.
Unfortunately for Birdie, she might just be the only chance for his...
528 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
Want to Read
February 23, 2026On my knees for whatever this is 🛐
ITS A DARK MM ROMANCE?? QUEEN I HAVEN’T EVEN MOVED ON FROM SAINT YET 🥹 (but I am soo ready)
Edit:
It’s not an MM, I am crying and disappointed. But that’s alright. The “MM romance” tag needs to be removed from Goodreads though 🥲
ITS A DARK MM ROMANCE?? QUEEN I HAVEN’T EVEN MOVED ON FROM SAINT YET 🥹 (but I am soo ready)
Edit:
It’s not an MM, I am crying and disappointed. But that’s alright. The “MM romance” tag needs to be removed from Goodreads though 🥲
Review of advance copy received from Author
Devil: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Sierra Simone
I'm bedeviled by you.
After making a mistake with the devil, it would be a bad idea to make a deal. Oops.
Tropes:
– Dark romance
– Older woman/younger man
– Forced proximity
– Dubious consent
– Boy obsessed
– It's always been you
– Second chance(ish)
I knew that Ryan Bell was going to be an experience but man, I was not expecting this. This story is so unique when compared to the rest of this series but in the best way. As always, Sierra's writing is captivating and addictive. Once you start reading, you just do not want to stop. It was so hard for me to try to to pace myself while reading this because I wanted to devour it all at once. Not to mention, I actually could not read this with my family in the same zip code.
Filled with darkness and obsession and love, Devil takes us on a seven year-long journey between professor Birdie Cooper and her student Ryan Bell. Ryan is obsessed with the docile artist to a point of concern, but deep down, she loves it.
I found myself highlighting almost half the book because of how brilliant and sensual every single line was. I've said this a hundred times before but Sierra Simone is a complete master of her craft and Devil is a perfect example of that.
This book was the easiest five stars. It is absolutely sensational, unbelievably exhilarating and utterly delectable. This is Sierra Simone at her finest—the absolute pinnacle.
Ryan Bell, you are the worst thing and the best thing.
Thank you to Sierra for the early copy–you know I adore you, mwah.
Sierra Simone
I'm bedeviled by you.
After making a mistake with the devil, it would be a bad idea to make a deal. Oops.
Tropes:
– Dark romance
– Older woman/younger man
– Forced proximity
– Dubious consent
– Boy obsessed
– It's always been you
– Second chance(ish)
I knew that Ryan Bell was going to be an experience but man, I was not expecting this. This story is so unique when compared to the rest of this series but in the best way. As always, Sierra's writing is captivating and addictive. Once you start reading, you just do not want to stop. It was so hard for me to try to to pace myself while reading this because I wanted to devour it all at once. Not to mention, I actually could not read this with my family in the same zip code.
Filled with darkness and obsession and love, Devil takes us on a seven year-long journey between professor Birdie Cooper and her student Ryan Bell. Ryan is obsessed with the docile artist to a point of concern, but deep down, she loves it.
I found myself highlighting almost half the book because of how brilliant and sensual every single line was. I've said this a hundred times before but Sierra Simone is a complete master of her craft and Devil is a perfect example of that.
This book was the easiest five stars. It is absolutely sensational, unbelievably exhilarating and utterly delectable. This is Sierra Simone at her finest—the absolute pinnacle.
Ryan Bell, you are the worst thing and the best thing.
Thank you to Sierra for the early copy–you know I adore you, mwah.
October 23, 2025
we have been waiting patiently for ryans book .. its coming dont panic dont panic .. im panicking 🤭🤭🤣🤣🫠🫠🫠🤤🤤🫣🫣
Want to Read
December 29, 2025last time i read a sierra simone i fell into a never-ending spiral... i'm ready for it to happen again
July 5, 2026
It took me forever to finish this ARC. I was in a reading slump and it just didn’t catch my attention.
It was fairly predictable and I was bored at times.
Ryan is not much of a devil after all. He’s so taken by Birdy that he never really becomes the devil he says he is. And Birdy is just a sucker for anything Ryan Bell. There wasn’t the fighting their feelings as much as I’d hoped for.
It was steaming hot of course because Sierra always delivers on that part. But I wasn’t really excited about the storyline.
He coheres her into living with him and becoming his play thing for a year so she can support her twin sister who always gets in trouble and Birdy has to bail her out of whatever situations she gets herself into. The twin thing didn’t make much sense tbh, I didn’t get it. And the 30 year old virgin is so outdated I was not into it.
The Bell family was around but we didn’t get to witness much of the family dynamic. It was surface level. I’d hoped for a little more insight to where they were today.
This is the lowest I’ve ever rated a Sierra Simone book.
It was just with out the usual eyes glued to each page as I’ve become used to reading SS.
The New Camelot trilogy is my all time favorite! 🫶🏼 the Lyonesse trilogy comes close and Saint is my all time favorite MM, so this was just a bit disappointing
I’d hoped for greatness but all I got was good enough🤷🏻♀️
It was fairly predictable and I was bored at times.
Ryan is not much of a devil after all. He’s so taken by Birdy that he never really becomes the devil he says he is. And Birdy is just a sucker for anything Ryan Bell. There wasn’t the fighting their feelings as much as I’d hoped for.
It was steaming hot of course because Sierra always delivers on that part. But I wasn’t really excited about the storyline.
He coheres her into living with him and becoming his play thing for a year so she can support her twin sister who always gets in trouble and Birdy has to bail her out of whatever situations she gets herself into. The twin thing didn’t make much sense tbh, I didn’t get it. And the 30 year old virgin is so outdated I was not into it.
The Bell family was around but we didn’t get to witness much of the family dynamic. It was surface level. I’d hoped for a little more insight to where they were today.
This is the lowest I’ve ever rated a Sierra Simone book.
It was just with out the usual eyes glued to each page as I’ve become used to reading SS.
The New Camelot trilogy is my all time favorite! 🫶🏼 the Lyonesse trilogy comes close and Saint is my all time favorite MM, so this was just a bit disappointing
I’d hoped for greatness but all I got was good enough🤷🏻♀️
June 5, 2026
I’m definitely going to hell, but only if Ryan Bell is there waiting for me. If his brothers could be there too, even better.
At one point, I think I nearly fainted reading this book, because I forgot to breathe. I’m still shaking. Who needs oxygen anyway, it’s for lightweights. I can live on this book.
I once promised Sierra Simone that I would give her my next born child in return for her writing something I wanted - it was in the days of New Camelot, when she was hurting my beautiful Embry. My baby days are over, but I was thinking maybe I could offer up a grandchild; I haven’t got any yet, but I was quite prepared to put the offer in writing at one particular part in the book, but then she gave me just what I wanted without having to sacrifice a child. I clapped joyfully and cheered so loud that I think she could have heard me all the way across the Atlantic Ocean. That scene is why I think I might be consigned to hell. Don’t care though #worthit.
I’m forever in awe of the mastery of Sierra’s writing. I didn’t just love Ryan Bell and Birdie Cooper, I worshipped them. I want to put them on a little altar and kneel at their feet.
PS. Please can we have a bonus chapter on what happened in London? I might re-offer that grandchild. Or maybe I could offer to feed Sierra pomegranate seeds.
At one point, I think I nearly fainted reading this book, because I forgot to breathe. I’m still shaking. Who needs oxygen anyway, it’s for lightweights. I can live on this book.
I once promised Sierra Simone that I would give her my next born child in return for her writing something I wanted - it was in the days of New Camelot, when she was hurting my beautiful Embry. My baby days are over, but I was thinking maybe I could offer up a grandchild; I haven’t got any yet, but I was quite prepared to put the offer in writing at one particular part in the book, but then she gave me just what I wanted without having to sacrifice a child. I clapped joyfully and cheered so loud that I think she could have heard me all the way across the Atlantic Ocean. That scene is why I think I might be consigned to hell. Don’t care though #worthit.
I’m forever in awe of the mastery of Sierra’s writing. I didn’t just love Ryan Bell and Birdie Cooper, I worshipped them. I want to put them on a little altar and kneel at their feet.
PS. Please can we have a bonus chapter on what happened in London? I might re-offer that grandchild. Or maybe I could offer to feed Sierra pomegranate seeds.
preordered
March 12, 2026This is not a review but a suggestion to pre-order directly from the author's website instead of going through Amazon or other third party resellers.
Want to Read
June 18, 2026The gasp I just let out... Apparently this series isn't done with me yet.
May 27, 2026
Title: Devil
Author: Sierra Simone
Series: Priest, 4
Format: Edelweiss ebook
Genre: Contemporary, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Birdie (FMC) & Ryan (MMC)
What to expect:
*Artist FMC x OBSESSED MMC
*Reverse age gap
*Religious guilt & trauma
Safety:
Mentions of suicidal thoughts. Loss of parents. No OW/OM drama. Slight third act separation.
Review:
No one writes a book based on religious trauma better than Sierra Simone!
Birdie has been suffering her entire life, one event after another leaves her feeling like she will never be enough for this world. Little does she know that an obsessed devil is about to change her entire world. Read the trigger warnings, this book gets dark for Birdie. Take care of your mental health.
Ryan Bell sees Birdie one time at an art event and becomes obsessed!! He follows her, has her for a brief encounter, loses her for seven years, and does everything he can to find and keep her forever. Obsession has never been so hot!! Believe him when he says that he is the Devil, and he is there to take what belongs to him.
All of the Bell brothers make appearances throughout this book. It is nice to have closure for each of the couples.
Author: Sierra Simone
Series: Priest, 4
Format: Edelweiss ebook
Genre: Contemporary, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Birdie (FMC) & Ryan (MMC)
What to expect:
*Artist FMC x OBSESSED MMC
*Reverse age gap
*Religious guilt & trauma
Safety:
Mentions of suicidal thoughts. Loss of parents. No OW/OM drama. Slight third act separation.
Review:
No one writes a book based on religious trauma better than Sierra Simone!
Birdie has been suffering her entire life, one event after another leaves her feeling like she will never be enough for this world. Little does she know that an obsessed devil is about to change her entire world. Read the trigger warnings, this book gets dark for Birdie. Take care of your mental health.
Ryan Bell sees Birdie one time at an art event and becomes obsessed!! He follows her, has her for a brief encounter, loses her for seven years, and does everything he can to find and keep her forever. Obsession has never been so hot!! Believe him when he says that he is the Devil, and he is there to take what belongs to him.
All of the Bell brothers make appearances throughout this book. It is nice to have closure for each of the couples.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars
Birdie + Ryan
Seven years ago Ryan Bell was in Birdie's art class.
Birdie was a pretty sought after wood-carving artist for Christian sculptures and she taught one art class at this religious college.
She was 29 and he was 22 - when he seduced her in her workshop.
She obviously got fired and hid back home on her family's old farm and she didn't make another religious sculpture for years until...
Ryan Bell never gave up looking for her and now he finally has new clues to find this woman - the one he could never get out of his head.
But innocent shy little Birdie could never want him with all his kinks and whatnots - so he has to blackmail her a little bit.
══════════════════
Well...that was ... kind of adorable.
The reader is warned at the beginning that this would be a very dark book with a pretty heartless hero. But I didn't see it that way at all.
Up until I've read half the story, I didn't know what Sierra was going on about with all the darkness and bad guy and whatnot.
I loved Ryan - obviously. We love all the Bell boys!
But even with the kinkiness and the 'blackmail' and the 'forcing' her to be with him and with her past and her family - it wasn't dark or bad. It was sweet.
Of course there are secrets and darkness and thoughts and stalkerish and controlling things, but they are both so obviously in love with each other that it's all just so very adorable.
As always in Sierra's books... I could've done without all those endless religious parts - I hate religion - but the rest of the book was sweet and sad and heartbreaking and erotic and sweet and adorable and I just loved reading it.
DEViL was such a sweet reverse age-gap love story with some very dark and serious parts. But it was also so very adorable and sexy and funny and so much more - READ IT!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
July 24, 2026
What to expect in Devil:
-dark romance
-age gap (she's older)
-he's obsessed
-religious trauma
-mental health rep
-dual POV
Birdie Cooper life is anything but easy. She used to be an artist and a teacher, with a student who took a keen interest in art and Birdie herself. But that all got taken away from her. It's years later and Birdie's making ends meet as best she can - taking care of her sister who's been dealing with mental health issues. When former student, Ryan Bell turns up out of the blue with an offer for Birdie that she can't refuse - Birdie's not sure what to make of it. One year to to be his in every conceivable way and he'll take care of Birdie's sister for the rest of her life. What could Birdies possibly lose by saying no?
Devil was hauntingly beautiful. It was like watching a movie play out in my head with how descriptive the writing was and how I was able to feel all of Birdie's emotions from despair and angst to elation and feeling not so alone. Yes, this was a very heavy book and by the end of it I had tears streaming down my face 😭.
I have been a fan of Sierra Simone's writing since reading Priest a few years ago. While her books may lean towards the taboo side, they're also equally just as beautiful.
And Sierra Simone knows how to write those spicy scenes 🫠. Oof Ryan Bell was Birdie's Devil, but he would also do anything for her and I loved their relationship so much.
Highly recommend this 5⭐ read if you're looking for a darker romance.
**please be sure to read authors notes on CW; there are heavy topics touched in this book including inability to access care for mental health, suicidal ideation, loss of loved ones.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
-dark romance
-age gap (she's older)
-he's obsessed
-religious trauma
-mental health rep
-dual POV
Birdie Cooper life is anything but easy. She used to be an artist and a teacher, with a student who took a keen interest in art and Birdie herself. But that all got taken away from her. It's years later and Birdie's making ends meet as best she can - taking care of her sister who's been dealing with mental health issues. When former student, Ryan Bell turns up out of the blue with an offer for Birdie that she can't refuse - Birdie's not sure what to make of it. One year to to be his in every conceivable way and he'll take care of Birdie's sister for the rest of her life. What could Birdies possibly lose by saying no?
Devil was hauntingly beautiful. It was like watching a movie play out in my head with how descriptive the writing was and how I was able to feel all of Birdie's emotions from despair and angst to elation and feeling not so alone. Yes, this was a very heavy book and by the end of it I had tears streaming down my face 😭.
I have been a fan of Sierra Simone's writing since reading Priest a few years ago. While her books may lean towards the taboo side, they're also equally just as beautiful.
And Sierra Simone knows how to write those spicy scenes 🫠. Oof Ryan Bell was Birdie's Devil, but he would also do anything for her and I loved their relationship so much.
Highly recommend this 5⭐ read if you're looking for a darker romance.
**please be sure to read authors notes on CW; there are heavy topics touched in this book including inability to access care for mental health, suicidal ideation, loss of loved ones.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was first introduced to Sierra Simone by her book Priest, which had me immediately intrigued by how a romance was going to have religion (specifically Catholicism) intertwined with the love story. I was pleasantly surprised by the first book, so I subsequently read the other two books in the series; however, I hadn't thought about any of the titles in a year or two - until now. I went into this novel kind of forgetting who Ryan Bell is, other than knowing that he was the more devious of the Bell brothers. As someone who is not particularly religious, that did make me more excited to read his story, as I don't fully understand the back-and-forth of morality with sin/committing sinful actions. In reality, Ryan Bell is a slightly morally grey character who takes questionable actions in the name of love. I could never truly take Ryan's comments about him being corrupt or sinful seriously because of that. I mean, forging Birdie's signature to give her a HUGE amount of money in a trust isn't the best, but he had pure intention for the most part.
Speaking of Birdie, I really liked her character in this novel! I saw some critiques of her character in other reviews, with one particular review slamming on the fact that she was in her late 30s and still a virgin; however, I think Sierra Simone did an amazing job with her characterization. Religion aside, Birdie doesn't know anything else other than fighting for her sister's life and her own. Birdie works all of these awful hours to make sure that her sister gets the care that she needs while completely ignoring her own needs, such as getting a really bad cut on her leg and not going to the hospital. There are moments of ideation that felt a little too real, as Birdie just feels she can't go on fighting anymore. Although I am not a big fan of romance novels where a man comes in and fixes everything for the female main character (probably the true lesbian in me), Ryan was truly able to help her back on her feet and find her self-worth again. It was sweet to see how their relationship grew, especially from the past that they shared. I am obsessed with the fact that they are both builders in some way, with Ryan being an architect and Birdie being a woodworker/carver, as it coincides nicely with their relationship being built. It also led to my favorite spicy scene from all of Simone's books in this series, with Ryan posing for Birdie's Christ statue while being suspended on a prop cross. It was nice to see him beg for forgiveness 😉
I decided that four stars felt like the best rating for this book for two main reasons: the length and the interactions with the Bell family. I did read this book quickly, but at times it felt like things just dragged on. I love romance novels, but I haven't read any so far where I think it needs to be longer than 400 pages, including this one. I understand that the dual pov probably affected the length of the book, but it still could have been condensed a bit more. I also wanted to see Ryan and Birdie interact more with the other Bell family members, specifically the brothers. I am always a sucker for a romance series where a different sibling is finding love in each one, but my favorite part is when they all interact! They both had some interaction, but not as much as I was hoping. Overall, though, I had a great time reading Ryan and Birdie's story, and I can't wait for the publication date!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Speaking of Birdie, I really liked her character in this novel! I saw some critiques of her character in other reviews, with one particular review slamming on the fact that she was in her late 30s and still a virgin; however, I think Sierra Simone did an amazing job with her characterization. Religion aside, Birdie doesn't know anything else other than fighting for her sister's life and her own. Birdie works all of these awful hours to make sure that her sister gets the care that she needs while completely ignoring her own needs, such as getting a really bad cut on her leg and not going to the hospital. There are moments of ideation that felt a little too real, as Birdie just feels she can't go on fighting anymore. Although I am not a big fan of romance novels where a man comes in and fixes everything for the female main character (probably the true lesbian in me), Ryan was truly able to help her back on her feet and find her self-worth again. It was sweet to see how their relationship grew, especially from the past that they shared. I am obsessed with the fact that they are both builders in some way, with Ryan being an architect and Birdie being a woodworker/carver, as it coincides nicely with their relationship being built. It also led to my favorite spicy scene from all of Simone's books in this series, with Ryan posing for Birdie's Christ statue while being suspended on a prop cross. It was nice to see him beg for forgiveness 😉
I decided that four stars felt like the best rating for this book for two main reasons: the length and the interactions with the Bell family. I did read this book quickly, but at times it felt like things just dragged on. I love romance novels, but I haven't read any so far where I think it needs to be longer than 400 pages, including this one. I understand that the dual pov probably affected the length of the book, but it still could have been condensed a bit more. I also wanted to see Ryan and Birdie interact more with the other Bell family members, specifically the brothers. I am always a sucker for a romance series where a different sibling is finding love in each one, but my favorite part is when they all interact! They both had some interaction, but not as much as I was hoping. Overall, though, I had a great time reading Ryan and Birdie's story, and I can't wait for the publication date!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2026
My brain is leaking out of my ears after this one (derogatory)
June 2, 2026
“Is it not enough to try to love as God loves us? With a love that bears all things, believes all things, hopes and endures all things? That must be enough for him, surely.”
This quote feels fitting for Pride month but my god there are so many I could choose. Quotes about mental health. Quotes about our broken safety net system. Sexy quotes. Sad quotes. Quotes that made me light headed.
I swear I say this after every Sierra Simone book, but seriously this time: this book has rewired my entire being.
The warnings in the author’s note were that he’s an unapologetically bad man, but I don’t think someone who doggedly tries to improve the lives of random strangers just because he thought of it can be called a bad man. If he’s bad, I don’t want good men. (But seriously, read the content warnings)
I am going to need 7-10 business days to fully recover and gather my thoughts but absolute perfection, 6 stars, broke the scale.
*thank you Sierra Simone and Bloom Books for the e-ARC*
This quote feels fitting for Pride month but my god there are so many I could choose. Quotes about mental health. Quotes about our broken safety net system. Sexy quotes. Sad quotes. Quotes that made me light headed.
I swear I say this after every Sierra Simone book, but seriously this time: this book has rewired my entire being.
The warnings in the author’s note were that he’s an unapologetically bad man, but I don’t think someone who doggedly tries to improve the lives of random strangers just because he thought of it can be called a bad man. If he’s bad, I don’t want good men. (But seriously, read the content warnings)
I am going to need 7-10 business days to fully recover and gather my thoughts but absolute perfection, 6 stars, broke the scale.
*thank you Sierra Simone and Bloom Books for the e-ARC*
May 23, 2026
“who do you think you are?”
“i’m the rest of your life.”
i knew i was in for a ride when i read those lines (and the warnings), and it was exactly everything i wanted. and more. i was in a year long reading slump and this book just kick started my love for reading again. ryan bell is exactly who he thinks he is.
“i’m the rest of your life.”
i knew i was in for a ride when i read those lines (and the warnings), and it was exactly everything i wanted. and more. i was in a year long reading slump and this book just kick started my love for reading again. ryan bell is exactly who he thinks he is.
May 10, 2026
Now THATS a book. OMG. Perhaps my favorite Sierra Simone yet.
June 19, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy received from Author
Dare I say this is (imo) Sierra Simone’s best writing thus far.
I genuinely think I’m left speechless at this experience. The way she was able to capture every emotion she wrote and have it translate so well to the read was incredible. I genuinely feel like I have Stockholm Syndrome from Ryan Bell as the reader and I’m actually happy about it?
I don’t even know what to say except a slow clap and standing ovation. Truly amazing and unforgettable. Sierra, you’ve ruined me in the best way.
Dare I say this is (imo) Sierra Simone’s best writing thus far.
I genuinely think I’m left speechless at this experience. The way she was able to capture every emotion she wrote and have it translate so well to the read was incredible. I genuinely feel like I have Stockholm Syndrome from Ryan Bell as the reader and I’m actually happy about it?
I don’t even know what to say except a slow clap and standing ovation. Truly amazing and unforgettable. Sierra, you’ve ruined me in the best way.
nope
June 15, 2026*deep sigh*
I'm getting really tired of this. Here we go again. Another author I'm taking off my TBR. Because apparently it's totally fine and normal these days to hire a problematic antisemitic narrator for your book and deleting comments on your post from your Jewish readers asking why you hired him. Deleting comments will make it go away Sierra? No. Abby Jimenez did it and removed all her Jewish readers from her Facebook reading group for daring to ask her why she hired him and it didn't make any waves or news. In fact, her new book narrated by that awful man made it to favorites list on Goodreads and #1 Bestsellers lists with zero backlash or pushback and now this again. Jewish readers mean absolutely nothing to the Book community and it's frightening, disgusting, hurtful and so shameful. I'm really damn tired of it. I will not support authors who think it's fine to hire racist narrators who think I should "k*ll myself" because I'm Jewish. It should not be this hard or shocking to point out for G-d's sake. Stop hiring Jacob Morgan. There are so many narrators out there to choose from.
I'm getting really tired of this. Here we go again. Another author I'm taking off my TBR. Because apparently it's totally fine and normal these days to hire a problematic antisemitic narrator for your book and deleting comments on your post from your Jewish readers asking why you hired him. Deleting comments will make it go away Sierra? No. Abby Jimenez did it and removed all her Jewish readers from her Facebook reading group for daring to ask her why she hired him and it didn't make any waves or news. In fact, her new book narrated by that awful man made it to favorites list on Goodreads and #1 Bestsellers lists with zero backlash or pushback and now this again. Jewish readers mean absolutely nothing to the Book community and it's frightening, disgusting, hurtful and so shameful. I'm really damn tired of it. I will not support authors who think it's fine to hire racist narrators who think I should "k*ll myself" because I'm Jewish. It should not be this hard or shocking to point out for G-d's sake. Stop hiring Jacob Morgan. There are so many narrators out there to choose from.
June 18, 2026
Arc provided by Edelweiss and Bloom Books
5 ⭐ I’m giving this a full 5 cause I really can't think of anything I'd dock it for. This was another banger from Sierra with brilliant writing and hot spice. The way she writes about God is so good, I don't know that I'd be able to read books so focused on it by anyway other than Sierra but the way she writes, it's such a joy to read. And this was the perfect level of dubcon, chef kisses all around
5 ⭐ I’m giving this a full 5 cause I really can't think of anything I'd dock it for. This was another banger from Sierra with brilliant writing and hot spice. The way she writes about God is so good, I don't know that I'd be able to read books so focused on it by anyway other than Sierra but the way she writes, it's such a joy to read. And this was the perfect level of dubcon, chef kisses all around
Want to Read
October 14, 2025Oh, Hell Yes!!!
Want to Read
December 2, 2025Is Baby Bell's book MM? I'm hoping for another MMF from Mother 🙏
May 12, 2026
i want to crawl inside Sierra Simone’s brain and live there
July 13, 2026
.. I absolutely hate to do this I really do.. this just wasn’t it..
It wasn’t even that dark at all , there’s a trigger warning page in the beginning stating this is the darkest book she ever wrote and I don’t think I agree with that.
To be completely honest this was a 50 Shades of Grey spin off just with overtly religious themes thrown in. I absolutely adore Sierras writing any other time but this was TORTURE for me to finish.
FMC was INSUFFERABLE.. the twin stuff I think was completely unnecessary and led nothing to the story. Sure she’s one of the reasons that Birdie suffered so much but we didn’t need sooooo much back story on that. This didn’t even seem like her writing.. I have read Priest TWICE and listened to the audio book , that’s how much I love that book.. this was just bad. Cringe worthy at times and I think it has done a complete disservice to the series.. unfortunately. My opinion is my own and I’m allowed to have it.
He as not infact a devil at all.. he was Christian Grey but not in a good way..
It wasn’t even that dark at all , there’s a trigger warning page in the beginning stating this is the darkest book she ever wrote and I don’t think I agree with that.
To be completely honest this was a 50 Shades of Grey spin off just with overtly religious themes thrown in. I absolutely adore Sierras writing any other time but this was TORTURE for me to finish.
FMC was INSUFFERABLE.. the twin stuff I think was completely unnecessary and led nothing to the story. Sure she’s one of the reasons that Birdie suffered so much but we didn’t need sooooo much back story on that. This didn’t even seem like her writing.. I have read Priest TWICE and listened to the audio book , that’s how much I love that book.. this was just bad. Cringe worthy at times and I think it has done a complete disservice to the series.. unfortunately. My opinion is my own and I’m allowed to have it.
He as not infact a devil at all.. he was Christian Grey but not in a good way..
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
There’s being catastrophically down bad and then there is whatever the hell Ryan Bell and Birdie Cooper have for each other.
This is not an easy read, it is painful, the loneliness is heartbreaking, the emotions it evokes are visceral and the warnings should be taken seriously.
Although this was a dual pov, I left the story not really knowing Ryan. His obsession, scheming, toxic thoughts and actual stalking were not fully developed but more described after the fact, would have been nice to see in action for his “badness” to feel real as he mostly came off as a white knight for a Birdie who was in desperate need of one.
There’s being catastrophically down bad and then there is whatever the hell Ryan Bell and Birdie Cooper have for each other.
This is not an easy read, it is painful, the loneliness is heartbreaking, the emotions it evokes are visceral and the warnings should be taken seriously.
Although this was a dual pov, I left the story not really knowing Ryan. His obsession, scheming, toxic thoughts and actual stalking were not fully developed but more described after the fact, would have been nice to see in action for his “badness” to feel real as he mostly came off as a white knight for a Birdie who was in desperate need of one.
June 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🍒🍒🍒🍒
Thank you to Sierra Simone and her team for an ARC of Devil. The long anticipated and awaited story of Ryan Bell and his Birdie.
And boy, did Sierra do a good job of SERVING with this installment. I always wonder what it says about me when I find myself yearning for the possessive, obsessive, and controlling MMC in these stories. And Ryan Bell is all of those things and more. But boy does he love Birdie down BAD and truly, in his own warped and twisted way, wants the best for Birdie and to see her thriving. Birdie had such a hard way to go in life - between the loss of the adults in her life at such an impressionable age and being left with a twin that could not be the more opposite of herself.
Busy's attitude towards Birdie throughout most of this book was so enraging - but I think that's what Sierra does so well. She really captured what it's like supporting someone who has addiction or addictive personalities and the toll it can take. And Birdie is really just trying to survive - and really no thanks to Ryan's own transgressions and inability to hold himself back when it comes to Birdie.
And OF COURSE. Sierra captures the nuances of the Catholic Religion so well - and Devil is no exception. I've come to expect that element in her books and I welcome it and her perspective on these matters.
And please, as someone who grew up in the Midwest with storm anxiety - that last part of the book really got me good!
Overall, an amazing installment to the Priest series!
🍒🍒🍒🍒
Thank you to Sierra Simone and her team for an ARC of Devil. The long anticipated and awaited story of Ryan Bell and his Birdie.
And boy, did Sierra do a good job of SERVING with this installment. I always wonder what it says about me when I find myself yearning for the possessive, obsessive, and controlling MMC in these stories. And Ryan Bell is all of those things and more. But boy does he love Birdie down BAD and truly, in his own warped and twisted way, wants the best for Birdie and to see her thriving. Birdie had such a hard way to go in life - between the loss of the adults in her life at such an impressionable age and being left with a twin that could not be the more opposite of herself.
Busy's attitude towards Birdie throughout most of this book was so enraging - but I think that's what Sierra does so well. She really captured what it's like supporting someone who has addiction or addictive personalities and the toll it can take. And Birdie is really just trying to survive - and really no thanks to Ryan's own transgressions and inability to hold himself back when it comes to Birdie.
And OF COURSE. Sierra captures the nuances of the Catholic Religion so well - and Devil is no exception. I've come to expect that element in her books and I welcome it and her perspective on these matters.
And please, as someone who grew up in the Midwest with storm anxiety - that last part of the book really got me good!
Overall, an amazing installment to the Priest series!
July 14, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ arc read
I think this quote explains the entire vibe of the book:
“I’m fascinated by her inexperience” - Ryan Bell
I love Sierra Simone books so much. I’m on her influencer team and this was an arc that I’m so grateful to have received.
But the Priest series is very hit or miss for me as it’s too much religion for what I enjoy. That being said it was nice to finally close out this series with the final brother.
My ranking of this series:
Saint
Sinner
Devil
Priest
I think this quote explains the entire vibe of the book:
“I’m fascinated by her inexperience” - Ryan Bell
I love Sierra Simone books so much. I’m on her influencer team and this was an arc that I’m so grateful to have received.
But the Priest series is very hit or miss for me as it’s too much religion for what I enjoy. That being said it was nice to finally close out this series with the final brother.
My ranking of this series:
Saint
Sinner
Devil
Priest
July 6, 2026
Sierra Simone fucks me up every time & I beg her for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My new favorite book of all time has arrived. My ROME! Sierra was ALREADY one of my instabuy/read authors. She's OUTDONE herself. Totally speechless.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6.0 stars. i'm speechless. in awe.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
📄Pages: 528/ 🎧 Audiobook Length: 16h 37m
📚Format: gifted eARC + gifted ALC
🎧 Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6.0 stars. Megan and Jacob were perfectly cast as Birdie and Ryan. Loved the way they performed to say the VERY least!
📖 Book 4 of the Priest series
(Note: This is the fourth full-length standalone in the Priest Collection, featuring Father Bell's youngest brother, Ryan Bell. You do not have to read Priest, Sinner, or Saint to read Devil.)
Thank you so much Sierra Simone for the beautiful gifted eARC and ALC. I'm obsessed with being on this street team and am beyond grateful and humbled by your and your team's trust in me. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Megan Wicks and Jacob Morgan delivered INCREDIBLE performances that moved me to tears, smiles and joy. I absolutely devoured the audiobook.
I had to savor this read because this is one of my all time favorite series and I'm a greedy, impatient girl who wants more.
I won't spoil ANYTHING but I'll leave you with this.
Sierra wrote another banger and her dark romances, if this is an indicator, are my ROME. I already devour everything she writes and immediately give them 5 stars but now??? After reading MANNNYY of her books that are already my favorites that I RAVE about here she is creating a stunningly beautiful work of art in this book and the audiobook. And a dark romance, my favorite??!?!?!!? STAWP IT SIERRA!!!
Grab this book. If you are searching for a read that makes you feel EVERY feeling. If you love a book with depth. If you are looking for a romance or book that moves you. I feel like this book spoke to my soul and my heart in a way I SEARCH for and it quenched that thirst. It was perfectly balanced between spicy scenes and depth of the character development that Birdie and Ryan embodied.
I'm obsessed with depth in romances and I won't be able to read books the same way again knowing this sets the standard for romance. My Holy Roman Empire!
I'm so sad I finished all the books in this series that are available. I love this series so much!!!! This book is the reason why I love reading. To search for these rare gems that will forever change my perspective. The acknowledgements in the audiobook were incredible as well. I loved getting that glimpse into the queen's writing process of this beauty.
Tropes:
🪽 age gap (it's hotttttt....)
🪽 dark romance (by SIERRA???? Sierra can NEVER do any wrong, she NAILED this romance)
🪽 broken heroine
🪽 second chance
🪽 a grovel to end all grovels (IT IS EVERYTHING!!!)
🪽 dub con
🪽 obsessed hero
🪽 morally gray MMC
🪽 second chance
🪽 teacher x student
Microtropes:
🪽 he takes care of her in every way
🪽 family bonding
🪽 he washes her hair
🪽 "who did this to you?!"
🪽 touch her and d!e
🪽 he saves her in more ways than one
🪽 she delivers depth to his life
🪽 creating art together...in different ways..
---------------------------------
Reena's Booksta
Reena's BookTok
---------------------------------
Blurb:
Birdie Cooper has nothing left.
Just one moment of weakness seven years ago—and she lost her job, her church, her only friend. Now she's working nights at a gas station to scrape together a living and a way to care for her sister, completely alone and separated even from the art that gave her life meaning.
Ryan Bell has never forgotten his first obsession.
He's been trying to find the tremblingly shy lecturer from his senior year of college after she abruptly disappeared after their first and only kiss. So when he comes upon a statue of Lucifer carved in Ryan's own likeness, two things become starkly apparent.
One: he knows how to find her now. And two: he's been haunting Birdie Cooper's memory as much as she's been haunting his.
Ryan can't offer love—or even an apology—but he can offer her a bargain, one crafted first and foremost to free him from his punishing obsession with her. If Birdie agrees to be his in every way for a single year, then he'll pay for her mother's care for as long as she's alive. And what does Birdie have left to lose anyway? The forbidden fruit is her only chance at salvation.
Unfortunately for Birdie, she might just be the only chance for his...
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6.0 stars. i'm speechless. in awe.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
📄Pages: 528/ 🎧 Audiobook Length: 16h 37m
📚Format: gifted eARC + gifted ALC
🎧 Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 6.0 stars. Megan and Jacob were perfectly cast as Birdie and Ryan. Loved the way they performed to say the VERY least!
📖 Book 4 of the Priest series
(Note: This is the fourth full-length standalone in the Priest Collection, featuring Father Bell's youngest brother, Ryan Bell. You do not have to read Priest, Sinner, or Saint to read Devil.)
Thank you so much Sierra Simone for the beautiful gifted eARC and ALC. I'm obsessed with being on this street team and am beyond grateful and humbled by your and your team's trust in me. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Megan Wicks and Jacob Morgan delivered INCREDIBLE performances that moved me to tears, smiles and joy. I absolutely devoured the audiobook.
I had to savor this read because this is one of my all time favorite series and I'm a greedy, impatient girl who wants more.
I won't spoil ANYTHING but I'll leave you with this.
Sierra wrote another banger and her dark romances, if this is an indicator, are my ROME. I already devour everything she writes and immediately give them 5 stars but now??? After reading MANNNYY of her books that are already my favorites that I RAVE about here she is creating a stunningly beautiful work of art in this book and the audiobook. And a dark romance, my favorite??!?!?!!? STAWP IT SIERRA!!!
Grab this book. If you are searching for a read that makes you feel EVERY feeling. If you love a book with depth. If you are looking for a romance or book that moves you. I feel like this book spoke to my soul and my heart in a way I SEARCH for and it quenched that thirst. It was perfectly balanced between spicy scenes and depth of the character development that Birdie and Ryan embodied.
I'm obsessed with depth in romances and I won't be able to read books the same way again knowing this sets the standard for romance. My Holy Roman Empire!
I'm so sad I finished all the books in this series that are available. I love this series so much!!!! This book is the reason why I love reading. To search for these rare gems that will forever change my perspective. The acknowledgements in the audiobook were incredible as well. I loved getting that glimpse into the queen's writing process of this beauty.
Tropes:
🪽 age gap (it's hotttttt....)
🪽 dark romance (by SIERRA???? Sierra can NEVER do any wrong, she NAILED this romance)
🪽 broken heroine
🪽 second chance
🪽 a grovel to end all grovels (IT IS EVERYTHING!!!)
🪽 dub con
🪽 obsessed hero
🪽 morally gray MMC
🪽 second chance
🪽 teacher x student
Microtropes:
🪽 he takes care of her in every way
🪽 family bonding
🪽 he washes her hair
🪽 "who did this to you?!"
🪽 touch her and d!e
🪽 he saves her in more ways than one
🪽 she delivers depth to his life
🪽 creating art together...in different ways..
---------------------------------
Reena's Booksta
Reena's BookTok
---------------------------------
Blurb:
Birdie Cooper has nothing left.
Just one moment of weakness seven years ago—and she lost her job, her church, her only friend. Now she's working nights at a gas station to scrape together a living and a way to care for her sister, completely alone and separated even from the art that gave her life meaning.
Ryan Bell has never forgotten his first obsession.
He's been trying to find the tremblingly shy lecturer from his senior year of college after she abruptly disappeared after their first and only kiss. So when he comes upon a statue of Lucifer carved in Ryan's own likeness, two things become starkly apparent.
One: he knows how to find her now. And two: he's been haunting Birdie Cooper's memory as much as she's been haunting his.
Ryan can't offer love—or even an apology—but he can offer her a bargain, one crafted first and foremost to free him from his punishing obsession with her. If Birdie agrees to be his in every way for a single year, then he'll pay for her mother's care for as long as she's alive. And what does Birdie have left to lose anyway? The forbidden fruit is her only chance at salvation.
Unfortunately for Birdie, she might just be the only chance for his...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Devil is exquisitely intense, much like Ryan Bell and his need for Birdie Cooper. Sierra Simone doesn't hold back in this slow-burn and wicked romance that is quite unconventional, much like Ryan's brothers' stories before his, once again showcasing the Bell trait of going to any lengths to have the person of one's desires. But it may just be that Ryan's obsession with the delicate Birdie is the most captivating of all.
Right from the start, we get to witness the moment 7 years prior when Ryan started to set the trap in order to cage the lonely Birdie. To make her his, no matter the cost, both financially and emotionally. It's a moment, an hour really, that causes immense pain to Birdie yet when Ryan shows up again at a very crucial time in her life all these years later, she willingly decides to enter into a year-long contract that will ensure her wild twin sister's safety. And although this contract will undoubtedly scorch her soul like nothing else could, it's Birdie's undying loyalty to both God and her family that has her under Ryan's thumb like she was meant to be all along.
This book is truly a test of wills. Ryan pushes Birdie because he truly believes in her. Believes in her incredible talent for taking a chunk of wood and carving something ethereal. Believes that she is worthy of love, no matter how much pain she has suffered because she was so devoted to her family. This woman is unlike any I have ever read. There is selfless and then there is Birdie Cooper. I totally understood her appeal and how she trapped the calculating and determined Ryan without even trying. He simply saw in her his salvation and did whatever he could to make sure he could in fact be saved. But not for himself but for her.
There are plenty of references to God and spirituality, but it never gets too preachy or mundane. Simone uses Birdie's deep faith as a way for Ryan to encourage her to keep creating her masterpieces since she has a calling of sorts that only she and God seem to understand. And yet, when she is fully debased by the devilish Ryan over and over again, that deep faith can only go so far. Birdie's new comprehension of wanting what she thinks she shouldn't becomes the most powerful conundrum of them all and yet, nothing has ever felt more right.
Ryan opens up a whole new world of sexual delights for Birdie that are both demeaning and wildly erotic. You know, like most of the Bell men do with their mates. But it's nothing more than his woman can handle and I was impressed at how the passion erupted within her at just a touch from the younger man. He loved being her first in everything and I loved seeing him open Birdie up like nothing she could have ever imagined. Because when you get to read a Sierra Simone book, you just know the trysts will always be memorable. And trust me, these were.
With more than a few moments featuring the other members of this decadent Bell family, I was beyond pleased to see Birdie accepted into their fold even as she fought her shyness and fear that her contract with Ryan could at any moment be terminated. In fact, it's that niggling doubt that Ryan could actually ever really love her that is a huge underlying part of this book. But I have to admit that I was thrilled beyond belief at just how much he loved her and saved her not once but twice in proving that love to her.
I really enjoyed the scenes in her studio with Lilith nipping at her feet and Ryan watching Birdie create such emotion from a piece of wood. The very triumphant scene towards the end of the book where Ryan is the ultimate model for his Birdie, was gorgeous and filled with such glorious emotion, I had to take a breath when it was done.
Sierra Simone may have saved her best for last with Devil. I have adored each of these unique Bell men, but there is something just so intriguing about Ryan. He's playful yet stern. Knows what his needs are and isn't afraid to claim them. He will protect what is his no matter what and loves his Birdie with all his heart. She changed him for the better even when she didn't know he existed and I'd like to think he allowed her to fly when she forever thought her wings were clipped. A match made in purgatory, perhaps, since they tempt both heaven and hell on a daily basis. And that couldn't be more perfect for these two.
5 big stars!
Right from the start, we get to witness the moment 7 years prior when Ryan started to set the trap in order to cage the lonely Birdie. To make her his, no matter the cost, both financially and emotionally. It's a moment, an hour really, that causes immense pain to Birdie yet when Ryan shows up again at a very crucial time in her life all these years later, she willingly decides to enter into a year-long contract that will ensure her wild twin sister's safety. And although this contract will undoubtedly scorch her soul like nothing else could, it's Birdie's undying loyalty to both God and her family that has her under Ryan's thumb like she was meant to be all along.
This book is truly a test of wills. Ryan pushes Birdie because he truly believes in her. Believes in her incredible talent for taking a chunk of wood and carving something ethereal. Believes that she is worthy of love, no matter how much pain she has suffered because she was so devoted to her family. This woman is unlike any I have ever read. There is selfless and then there is Birdie Cooper. I totally understood her appeal and how she trapped the calculating and determined Ryan without even trying. He simply saw in her his salvation and did whatever he could to make sure he could in fact be saved. But not for himself but for her.
There are plenty of references to God and spirituality, but it never gets too preachy or mundane. Simone uses Birdie's deep faith as a way for Ryan to encourage her to keep creating her masterpieces since she has a calling of sorts that only she and God seem to understand. And yet, when she is fully debased by the devilish Ryan over and over again, that deep faith can only go so far. Birdie's new comprehension of wanting what she thinks she shouldn't becomes the most powerful conundrum of them all and yet, nothing has ever felt more right.
Ryan opens up a whole new world of sexual delights for Birdie that are both demeaning and wildly erotic. You know, like most of the Bell men do with their mates. But it's nothing more than his woman can handle and I was impressed at how the passion erupted within her at just a touch from the younger man. He loved being her first in everything and I loved seeing him open Birdie up like nothing she could have ever imagined. Because when you get to read a Sierra Simone book, you just know the trysts will always be memorable. And trust me, these were.
With more than a few moments featuring the other members of this decadent Bell family, I was beyond pleased to see Birdie accepted into their fold even as she fought her shyness and fear that her contract with Ryan could at any moment be terminated. In fact, it's that niggling doubt that Ryan could actually ever really love her that is a huge underlying part of this book. But I have to admit that I was thrilled beyond belief at just how much he loved her and saved her not once but twice in proving that love to her.
I really enjoyed the scenes in her studio with Lilith nipping at her feet and Ryan watching Birdie create such emotion from a piece of wood. The very triumphant scene towards the end of the book where Ryan is the ultimate model for his Birdie, was gorgeous and filled with such glorious emotion, I had to take a breath when it was done.
Sierra Simone may have saved her best for last with Devil. I have adored each of these unique Bell men, but there is something just so intriguing about Ryan. He's playful yet stern. Knows what his needs are and isn't afraid to claim them. He will protect what is his no matter what and loves his Birdie with all his heart. She changed him for the better even when she didn't know he existed and I'd like to think he allowed her to fly when she forever thought her wings were clipped. A match made in purgatory, perhaps, since they tempt both heaven and hell on a daily basis. And that couldn't be more perfect for these two.
5 big stars!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I struggled with this one for a while before deciding on a rating and getting my thoughts together. It saddens and pains me greatly to give this book such a low rating but, truly, there was almost nothing I liked about it. And I am a Sierra Simone ride or die. I’ve read everything she’s ever written multiple times.
Spoilers below
1- POV - one of my biggest issues with this book is that it’s dual pov. If you’re a fan of this series you’ll know each book is written entirely from the male pov with one chapter in the female (or Elijah in the case of Saint) pov. This was fantastic and a calling card for the series. Sierra writes the male pov so well and it really allowed for a deep dive into the character’s psyche; because, at its core, this series is about each of these brothers and their internal struggles. It’s not really about the relationships. This book suffered greatly because SO much of it was in Birdie’s pov and she’s just so damn boring and useless as a character. At least 75% of this book in from her pov and I HATED it. Ryan could’ve been a fantastic character but he’s so underdeveloped in favor of tons of filler showing how much Birdie’s life sucks. It was a waste. Where’s the Ryan Bell that Mark called an “evil angel”? This Ryan was seriously mid. Slightly obsessed but a total Boy Scout compared to a character like Mark Trevena, who is truly the Devil.
2- Religious themes - No Sierra Simone book is complete without some religious backdrop. It’s practically a requirement. However, what I normally tell people is that the series (or any of her other books that have Catholicism as a theme) is not preachy. It approaches religion in an objective, academic, and sometimes dark, way to complement the character’s development. Which I really enjoy. That went out the damn window here. Birdie is such a religious fanatic and so fucking preachy about Catholicism, wringing her hands every minute bc “god” will be upset with her for doing this or that. It was exhausting and, tbh, completely off putting. I don’t need to read a romance pushing Christianity down my throat. I get enough of that just living day to day in this country.
3- Birdie - I’ll preface this by saying I understand the anecdotal position that women tend to be harder on female characters than male, and, generally, I’m aware of this in my considerations, but, truly, I hated her as a character. Birdie was completely useless and so damn pathetic. Her entire personality is that her life fucking sucks. We got it after the first two or three times, I promise. It got ridiculous after a certain point. She’s so painfully shy and has such crippling anxiety she can’t even speak to the students she teaches. She can’t speak to anyone. She just hides in a corner. Again, she was uninspiring, useless, and entirely boring. There was truly no reason for Ryan to be as obsessed with her as he was.
4- virginity - this is just truly fucking beyond me and I’m struggling with the fact that one of my favorite authors who generally deals in sex positive wrote a fucking 36 year old virgin female character. What the fuck am I even supposed to do with that???? She has her first kiss at 29. And bc her life is just so fucking pathetic, she has no time to date and since sex is only for marriage since she can’t date she’ll never get married so she just keeps herself pure as the Virgin Mary. I truly have no words. Just no words to convey how completely disgusting I find this. A 36 year old virgin is unacceptable and I truly don’t care that it’s because her religion made her do it. This dovetails with the preachy Christian bs in this story. But don’t worry, as soon as Ryan pops her cherry she’s a ravenous sex goddess. Of course.
Overall I’m deeply, deeply disappointed in this book. I have a theory that when indie authors get trad contracts their books plummet in quality. This is at least the 3rd author I’ve loved where this has happened. I’m sad that the Sierra I know and love may not be writing any longer in favor of some sanitized, mass market leash imposed by a trad publisher.
Advance copy provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
Spoilers below
1- POV - one of my biggest issues with this book is that it’s dual pov. If you’re a fan of this series you’ll know each book is written entirely from the male pov with one chapter in the female (or Elijah in the case of Saint) pov. This was fantastic and a calling card for the series. Sierra writes the male pov so well and it really allowed for a deep dive into the character’s psyche; because, at its core, this series is about each of these brothers and their internal struggles. It’s not really about the relationships. This book suffered greatly because SO much of it was in Birdie’s pov and she’s just so damn boring and useless as a character. At least 75% of this book in from her pov and I HATED it. Ryan could’ve been a fantastic character but he’s so underdeveloped in favor of tons of filler showing how much Birdie’s life sucks. It was a waste. Where’s the Ryan Bell that Mark called an “evil angel”? This Ryan was seriously mid. Slightly obsessed but a total Boy Scout compared to a character like Mark Trevena, who is truly the Devil.
2- Religious themes - No Sierra Simone book is complete without some religious backdrop. It’s practically a requirement. However, what I normally tell people is that the series (or any of her other books that have Catholicism as a theme) is not preachy. It approaches religion in an objective, academic, and sometimes dark, way to complement the character’s development. Which I really enjoy. That went out the damn window here. Birdie is such a religious fanatic and so fucking preachy about Catholicism, wringing her hands every minute bc “god” will be upset with her for doing this or that. It was exhausting and, tbh, completely off putting. I don’t need to read a romance pushing Christianity down my throat. I get enough of that just living day to day in this country.
3- Birdie - I’ll preface this by saying I understand the anecdotal position that women tend to be harder on female characters than male, and, generally, I’m aware of this in my considerations, but, truly, I hated her as a character. Birdie was completely useless and so damn pathetic. Her entire personality is that her life fucking sucks. We got it after the first two or three times, I promise. It got ridiculous after a certain point. She’s so painfully shy and has such crippling anxiety she can’t even speak to the students she teaches. She can’t speak to anyone. She just hides in a corner. Again, she was uninspiring, useless, and entirely boring. There was truly no reason for Ryan to be as obsessed with her as he was.
4- virginity - this is just truly fucking beyond me and I’m struggling with the fact that one of my favorite authors who generally deals in sex positive wrote a fucking 36 year old virgin female character. What the fuck am I even supposed to do with that???? She has her first kiss at 29. And bc her life is just so fucking pathetic, she has no time to date and since sex is only for marriage since she can’t date she’ll never get married so she just keeps herself pure as the Virgin Mary. I truly have no words. Just no words to convey how completely disgusting I find this. A 36 year old virgin is unacceptable and I truly don’t care that it’s because her religion made her do it. This dovetails with the preachy Christian bs in this story. But don’t worry, as soon as Ryan pops her cherry she’s a ravenous sex goddess. Of course.
Overall I’m deeply, deeply disappointed in this book. I have a theory that when indie authors get trad contracts their books plummet in quality. This is at least the 3rd author I’ve loved where this has happened. I’m sad that the Sierra I know and love may not be writing any longer in favor of some sanitized, mass market leash imposed by a trad publisher.
Advance copy provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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