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The Last Confession
Paris, 1663
Mentored in the enchanting world of the courtesans, beautiful, intelligent and outspoken Catalina Cosme has her pick of any man the city offers. But no man has ever captured her interest…until she lays eyes on Father Benedict Mortimer. Determined to prove that even holy men can fall, Benedict becomes her greatest challenge yet.
The former pupil of a Grand Inquisitor, Roman Catholic Priest Father Benedict Mortimer is a man haunted by the horrifying sins of his past and the same kindhearted priest whom Catalina found refuge in when she escaped an abusive benefactor. As their unlikely friendship forms, Catalina’s aim for seduction begins to fade and the love she was never allowed to experience blossoms for the man beneath the cloth.
Although Benedict offers to be Catalina's new and anonymous benefactor, he denies himself the temptation of claiming her body in exchange. But desire may prove to be stronger than resilience, and the salvation he believes he had long ago lost may be closer than he realizes.
Mentored in the enchanting world of the courtesans, beautiful, intelligent and outspoken Catalina Cosme has her pick of any man the city offers. But no man has ever captured her interest…until she lays eyes on Father Benedict Mortimer. Determined to prove that even holy men can fall, Benedict becomes her greatest challenge yet.
The former pupil of a Grand Inquisitor, Roman Catholic Priest Father Benedict Mortimer is a man haunted by the horrifying sins of his past and the same kindhearted priest whom Catalina found refuge in when she escaped an abusive benefactor. As their unlikely friendship forms, Catalina’s aim for seduction begins to fade and the love she was never allowed to experience blossoms for the man beneath the cloth.
Although Benedict offers to be Catalina's new and anonymous benefactor, he denies himself the temptation of claiming her body in exchange. But desire may prove to be stronger than resilience, and the salvation he believes he had long ago lost may be closer than he realizes.
First published April 6, 2015
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June 13, 2021
2.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“I suppose there can be only two outcomes to our friendship; you will save me or I will damn you.”
After losing her mother to the gallows, Catalina Cosme is taken in by Madame Poisson, a former courtesan and is raised in the Paris countryside. When she becomes of age, she returns to Paris to stay with a friend of Poisson's, Madame Poppa, who runs a brothel. Catalina follows in their footsteps and becomes a courtesan and is given into contract for one year to Lord Guy. Catalina wants to have feelings for Guy but after one of his drinking nights, he abuses her and she runs to a church to find solace. There she meets Father Benedict Mortimer and while she treasures their friendship, she wants more.
“Welcome,” said the priest in the prolonged silence. It was a deep voice that made the delicate hairs on Catalina’s nape stand on end.
Set in 1663 Paris, The Last Confession had taboo (priest and courtesan), age-gap, and slow burn elements. In the second half, it danced into erotic but then started to throw plot points fast and furious into the story and created an ending that felt a little unsatisfying in its abruptness. Mostly told from Catalina's point-of-view, there were two or three times it switched to Father Benedict but they were very short and seemingly out of nowhere, the reader gets insight into how being raised by two courtesans has made Catalina more liberal and aware of the hypocrisy of the church but also looking for some source of comfort and understanding. With these issues, the book, obviously, touches on religious doctrine, equality, and societal issues. There were points made, some missed, but when I picked up this book, I was looking for some delicious slow burn friction and this did have moments that delivered.
And beneath all the abstinence, all the self-assurance, Father Benedict Mortimer was only a man. And no man was immune to temptation.
I liked the gradual beginning, we get to know Catalina and her situation first and see why she is open and drawn to Father Benedict for a friendship, then her attraction starts to seep in, his looks, her learning about his libertine past, and around the 30% mark she, faltering in a purposeful way, sets out to seduce him. Here is where I missed Father Benedict's point-of-view or more backstory on him. Scenes of his past, he mentions having more than one partner at a time, could have been flashed to, fulfilling more of a erotic vibe, but most importantly, I missed “seeing” his struggle and battle in not giving into Catalina. We do get a scene of Benedict's self-flagellation, which Catalina sees and gives her a crisis of conscience. As it was, though, there was only one or two scenes where I thought I could feel his turmoil, otherwise, Father wasn't even doth protesting too much. Along with not really feeling his struggle to maintain his vows, his views never seemed to match the church and there were times I felt he was more cosplaying in his liturgical garments.
"What is it you want of me, Catalina?" Benedict asked, his voice had turned cold.
"I want you,” she said.
The passages of time in the story also didn't provide a cohesive pacing feel, months go by as Catalina spends time with Benedict in Touraine, then months go by as they're apart, then we're at 50% with Catalina's contract up with Lord Guy and Benedict is entering her life again by paying to be her secret benefactor, without benefits. In the second half, around the 60% mark, is where the erotic part takes over for a while. Without Benedict's pov, I can't say there was a completely angst heated “snap” to him giving in but there was heat there. The bedroom scenes take over for awhile but after another brief year of time passage goes by, the ending zooms up with death, murder, quick forced in sense of betrayal, a trial, and a brisk wrapped up ending.
They would be shunned by society and damned by God.
The secondary characters were definitely interesting outlines of characters but they never were delved in enough for me. Lord Guy, after religious hypocrisy, is mostly the villain of the piece and is given the most background with his face scared by the Vindictae, who also murdered his brothers. His depression and anger over women being repulsed by his face have him drinking and then abusing women and while he acts ashamed in the morning over his actions, I'm glad that Catalina never tried to “heal” him. (He's also the source of most of the content warnings, physical abuse and rape) There's mention of Catalina having a brother she loved who died but there wasn't enough to feel this emotional connection, the madames who raised her needed more coloring in, and a late additive friend of Benedict's was barely formed and given a very blatant out of nowhere change of heart to give a happy ending. The time period is only really felt through brief or light mentions of The Reformation, tension between Catholics and Protestants, and real historical figures like The Sun King and Veronica Franco.
“And some of us choose a life that was not meant for us,” Catalina murmured.
A lot of the story was all in the teasing of the idea of these two together, it dances towards the line but stayed away a fair distance, there was a started confessional masturbation scene but was seemingly forgotten in its abandonment, until the later second half when bedroom scenes take over for a while; this had more of a hint of erotic than encompassing. A little more depth in some places and Father Benedict's pov would have improved this for me but the promise shown would convince me to read another of the author's books.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“I suppose there can be only two outcomes to our friendship; you will save me or I will damn you.”
After losing her mother to the gallows, Catalina Cosme is taken in by Madame Poisson, a former courtesan and is raised in the Paris countryside. When she becomes of age, she returns to Paris to stay with a friend of Poisson's, Madame Poppa, who runs a brothel. Catalina follows in their footsteps and becomes a courtesan and is given into contract for one year to Lord Guy. Catalina wants to have feelings for Guy but after one of his drinking nights, he abuses her and she runs to a church to find solace. There she meets Father Benedict Mortimer and while she treasures their friendship, she wants more.
“Welcome,” said the priest in the prolonged silence. It was a deep voice that made the delicate hairs on Catalina’s nape stand on end.
Set in 1663 Paris, The Last Confession had taboo (priest and courtesan), age-gap, and slow burn elements. In the second half, it danced into erotic but then started to throw plot points fast and furious into the story and created an ending that felt a little unsatisfying in its abruptness. Mostly told from Catalina's point-of-view, there were two or three times it switched to Father Benedict but they were very short and seemingly out of nowhere, the reader gets insight into how being raised by two courtesans has made Catalina more liberal and aware of the hypocrisy of the church but also looking for some source of comfort and understanding. With these issues, the book, obviously, touches on religious doctrine, equality, and societal issues. There were points made, some missed, but when I picked up this book, I was looking for some delicious slow burn friction and this did have moments that delivered.
And beneath all the abstinence, all the self-assurance, Father Benedict Mortimer was only a man. And no man was immune to temptation.
I liked the gradual beginning, we get to know Catalina and her situation first and see why she is open and drawn to Father Benedict for a friendship, then her attraction starts to seep in, his looks, her learning about his libertine past, and around the 30% mark she, faltering in a purposeful way, sets out to seduce him. Here is where I missed Father Benedict's point-of-view or more backstory on him. Scenes of his past, he mentions having more than one partner at a time, could have been flashed to, fulfilling more of a erotic vibe, but most importantly, I missed “seeing” his struggle and battle in not giving into Catalina. We do get a scene of Benedict's self-flagellation, which Catalina sees and gives her a crisis of conscience. As it was, though, there was only one or two scenes where I thought I could feel his turmoil, otherwise, Father wasn't even doth protesting too much. Along with not really feeling his struggle to maintain his vows, his views never seemed to match the church and there were times I felt he was more cosplaying in his liturgical garments.
"What is it you want of me, Catalina?" Benedict asked, his voice had turned cold.
"I want you,” she said.
The passages of time in the story also didn't provide a cohesive pacing feel, months go by as Catalina spends time with Benedict in Touraine, then months go by as they're apart, then we're at 50% with Catalina's contract up with Lord Guy and Benedict is entering her life again by paying to be her secret benefactor, without benefits. In the second half, around the 60% mark, is where the erotic part takes over for a while. Without Benedict's pov, I can't say there was a completely angst heated “snap” to him giving in but there was heat there. The bedroom scenes take over for awhile but after another brief year of time passage goes by, the ending zooms up with death, murder, quick forced in sense of betrayal, a trial, and a brisk wrapped up ending.
They would be shunned by society and damned by God.
The secondary characters were definitely interesting outlines of characters but they never were delved in enough for me. Lord Guy, after religious hypocrisy, is mostly the villain of the piece and is given the most background with his face scared by the Vindictae, who also murdered his brothers. His depression and anger over women being repulsed by his face have him drinking and then abusing women and while he acts ashamed in the morning over his actions, I'm glad that Catalina never tried to “heal” him. (He's also the source of most of the content warnings, physical abuse and rape) There's mention of Catalina having a brother she loved who died but there wasn't enough to feel this emotional connection, the madames who raised her needed more coloring in, and a late additive friend of Benedict's was barely formed and given a very blatant out of nowhere change of heart to give a happy ending. The time period is only really felt through brief or light mentions of The Reformation, tension between Catholics and Protestants, and real historical figures like The Sun King and Veronica Franco.
“And some of us choose a life that was not meant for us,” Catalina murmured.
A lot of the story was all in the teasing of the idea of these two together, it dances towards the line but stayed away a fair distance, there was a started confessional masturbation scene but was seemingly forgotten in its abandonment, until the later second half when bedroom scenes take over for a while; this had more of a hint of erotic than encompassing. A little more depth in some places and Father Benedict's pov would have improved this for me but the promise shown would convince me to read another of the author's books.
December 13, 2020
I was looking for a palate cleanser although I'm not sure I would have requested this to review if I'd realized it was backlist? Ah well. Sexy priest novel for those of you who have seen Fleabag, but set in Paris 1663. Enough said!
September 3, 2020
It was a memoir about the priest's life as a libertine, and how he, out of some kind of divine inspiration, decided to find God. Now he was a hopeless reformer, heaping condemnation on others who lived the same depraved, hedonistic lifestyle that he had once headily partook in.
I so wanted to love this book more than I did. The premise of a priest (formerly a libertine) falling in love with a courtesan? Sign me up for this forbidden love trope. I was also excited because this author seems rather obscure, and I thought this would be one of those 'indie hidden gems' that I would fall in love with.
The writing style is nice, and especially had lovely flow in certain areas. This story had that 'inspired' feeling I like. Maybe my expectations were not synced with what this story ultimately ended up being, or maybe my hopes were too high (I've been really excited about this book since I first discovered it, romances with priests are hard to come by).
There were certain scene transitions that seemed rather abrupt, and reminded me that this wasn't a traditionally published author. In this case, I really think this manuscript being sent to a great editor that 'gets the author' & 'gets the story' would help flesh out this story. There were moments that seemed like they should have been so much more dramatic, even more drawn out than what they were. In certain areas the story fell flat, for me.
This was a beautiful love story though. I think the characterization of Catalina was done well. The erotic scenes were full of passion & were sensual. I can tell that was what the author was wanting to pull off and she excelled there.
This may be a case of my expectations not being met. With Benedict's past as a libertine I was hoping for more from his backstory. One thing I appreciate about this book: It was mostly from Catalina's POV. One thing I dislike about modern contemporary romance is the frequent dual POVs. The author spoon feeds the reader the male POVs to explain away his actions and make him seem more likable. So, I'm not saying I necessarily needed Benedict's POV. I think I just was hoping for more from his scandalous past...maybe have it interact with the plot more?
*sigh
3.4 stars. This author is apparently working on a fantasy book and I will definitely be trying it, I like her vision. So many other people loved this book, I suppose I would recommend it to people looking for a romance with a priest.
I so wanted to love this book more than I did. The premise of a priest (formerly a libertine) falling in love with a courtesan? Sign me up for this forbidden love trope. I was also excited because this author seems rather obscure, and I thought this would be one of those 'indie hidden gems' that I would fall in love with.
The writing style is nice, and especially had lovely flow in certain areas. This story had that 'inspired' feeling I like. Maybe my expectations were not synced with what this story ultimately ended up being, or maybe my hopes were too high (I've been really excited about this book since I first discovered it, romances with priests are hard to come by).
There were certain scene transitions that seemed rather abrupt, and reminded me that this wasn't a traditionally published author. In this case, I really think this manuscript being sent to a great editor that 'gets the author' & 'gets the story' would help flesh out this story. There were moments that seemed like they should have been so much more dramatic, even more drawn out than what they were. In certain areas the story fell flat, for me.
This was a beautiful love story though. I think the characterization of Catalina was done well. The erotic scenes were full of passion & were sensual. I can tell that was what the author was wanting to pull off and she excelled there.
This may be a case of my expectations not being met. With Benedict's past as a libertine I was hoping for more from his backstory. One thing I appreciate about this book: It was mostly from Catalina's POV. One thing I dislike about modern contemporary romance is the frequent dual POVs. The author spoon feeds the reader the male POVs to explain away his actions and make him seem more likable. So, I'm not saying I necessarily needed Benedict's POV. I think I just was hoping for more from his scandalous past...maybe have it interact with the plot more?
*sigh
3.4 stars. This author is apparently working on a fantasy book and I will definitely be trying it, I like her vision. So many other people loved this book, I suppose I would recommend it to people looking for a romance with a priest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2021
I got this eARC from Netgalley in exhange for a honest review
3.75 stars.
It was actually really interesting, sometimes i found Catarina to be annoying, selfish and naivè and I found Benedict intruiging. I wish we could learn more about him, we get bits and pieces here and there but it`s not enough. They faced alot through the book and i`m glad to see them getting their happy ending.
3.75 stars.
It was actually really interesting, sometimes i found Catarina to be annoying, selfish and naivè and I found Benedict intruiging. I wish we could learn more about him, we get bits and pieces here and there but it`s not enough. They faced alot through the book and i`m glad to see them getting their happy ending.
July 29, 2016
I don’t normally read historicals with the exception of Diana Gabaldon but I had to read this because I love forbidden romance. I was a little nervous that the writing would be complex or boring but this book didn’t bore me at all. The writing is really beautiful and almost poetic sometimes.
The story is about Benedict:
a tormented priest
And Catalina:
a courtesan with a heart of gold
such an odd pairing but it worked so perfectly. Benedict, I loved him. A former rake, he joins the priesthood hoping to change his ways but instead becomes more and more lost when an inquisitor makes him his pupil.
Despite the horrible sins he commited in his past I really felt for him. He struggles to be a good person and even though he questions his calling he still tries to resist breaking the vow he made to God when Cat comes into his life.
I loved Catalina too. She wasn’t ashamed of who she was and she wasn’t afraid to express herself to anyone. She had been through a lot. The man who was supporting her was really horrible to her.
Benedict was the only person who showed her kindness and treated her like a human being. She wants him so badly but she also knows its wrong. But it still doesn’t stop her from being close to him. They grow in friendship and endures separation until it becomes unbearable.
All of this conflict built up to their ultimate sin and it was so satisfying Benedict thought he learned to control his basic human needs but beneath his calm priestly exterior was a very passionate man.
Had she ever seen anything more beautiful than the image of him lying naked beside her?
In the ending proved their undying love and devotion to each other. They were ready to save each other even if it meant dying themselves.
Don’t worry there is a HEA and I was so glad everything turned out well for them.
I love this book! I went so many emotions when I read this and I was in tears when it was over. I hope she writes more of it :) Its a really beautiful love story.
The story is about Benedict:
a tormented priest
And Catalina:
a courtesan with a heart of gold
such an odd pairing but it worked so perfectly. Benedict, I loved him. A former rake, he joins the priesthood hoping to change his ways but instead becomes more and more lost when an inquisitor makes him his pupil.
Despite the horrible sins he commited in his past I really felt for him. He struggles to be a good person and even though he questions his calling he still tries to resist breaking the vow he made to God when Cat comes into his life.
I loved Catalina too. She wasn’t ashamed of who she was and she wasn’t afraid to express herself to anyone. She had been through a lot. The man who was supporting her was really horrible to her.
Benedict was the only person who showed her kindness and treated her like a human being. She wants him so badly but she also knows its wrong. But it still doesn’t stop her from being close to him. They grow in friendship and endures separation until it becomes unbearable.
All of this conflict built up to their ultimate sin and it was so satisfying Benedict thought he learned to control his basic human needs but beneath his calm priestly exterior was a very passionate man.
Had she ever seen anything more beautiful than the image of him lying naked beside her?
In the ending proved their undying love and devotion to each other. They were ready to save each other even if it meant dying themselves.
Don’t worry there is a HEA and I was so glad everything turned out well for them.
I love this book! I went so many emotions when I read this and I was in tears when it was over. I hope she writes more of it :) Its a really beautiful love story.
December 12, 2020
3⭐️
This is a romantic historical fiction that was character driven. The beginning held 5 stars for me as I learned about the h and H. The writing flowed and drew me in. Forbidden romance is one of my favorite tropes. I thought the chemistry and romance was wonderful.
The author held my interest and wrote this part well. But having said that, the religious part at around 80% was confusing and in my opinion unnecessary. The story takes a quick turn, which I felt was rushed and disjointed. This made the final part feel like a 2 star which is why I’m giving it a 3. There was an HEA ending, which always makes me happy.
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
This is a romantic historical fiction that was character driven. The beginning held 5 stars for me as I learned about the h and H. The writing flowed and drew me in. Forbidden romance is one of my favorite tropes. I thought the chemistry and romance was wonderful.
The author held my interest and wrote this part well. But having said that, the religious part at around 80% was confusing and in my opinion unnecessary. The story takes a quick turn, which I felt was rushed and disjointed. This made the final part feel like a 2 star which is why I’m giving it a 3. There was an HEA ending, which always makes me happy.
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own.
June 10, 2015
OMG did I love it!!!!!!! What a beautiful love story . You can feel the love and passion between them. I think this is what every woman dreams of, I know I do. I would love to find a man like Benedict who would love me like that but also to feel the same way towards him. To feel so deeply for another person that you actually become one. Beautifully written, it left me wanting more. I felt like crying and didn't want it to end.
July 31, 2016
4.5 stars for this gem
This is the second book i've read involving a priest as the MC and i absolutely loved it! Forbidden love draws this reader in.
I'll admit, i almost stopped reading during Catalina and Guy interaction, i just could not stomach it. After that, i enjoyed every second of it. I had hoped we would have more of Benedict's POV but that didn't deter the book from being awesome either way.
This is the second book i've read involving a priest as the MC and i absolutely loved it! Forbidden love draws this reader in.
I'll admit, i almost stopped reading during Catalina and Guy interaction, i just could not stomach it. After that, i enjoyed every second of it. I had hoped we would have more of Benedict's POV but that didn't deter the book from being awesome either way.
July 8, 2015
I was quite taken with this book. I enjoyed it tremendously.
January 7, 2020
Regina Eden's The Last Confession is a very entertaining book. I’m not typically a reader of romance, but by the end I was quite attached to the characters and caught up in their struggles.
The story takes place over a fairly long period of time, and almost has an epic feel. There’s plenty of nice historical detail and atmosphere, but she never lets the story get bogged down in that sort of thing. She mostly focuses on the characters, their struggles and interactions.
And the characters are definitely a strong point. The hero and heroine are both very well drawn. Sometimes I almost found their flaws frustrating, which is probably a good thing.
Catalina, a courtesan who falls for a priest, is the sort of person who wants to see the best in everybody, even when she shouldn’t.
Father Benedict is a former libertine who gave up his life of debauchery for the priesthood, and then wrote a fire and brimstone book about how others should renounce their evil lives the same way he did. By the time Catalina meets him, he has mellowed a great deal for reasons that are initially unclear.
It isn’t long before she falls for him. At first it’s almost a game to her—she relishes the idea of trying to seduce a priest—but then, as she comes to care for him, she starts to question her actions. Is she ruining his life? Is it wrong of her to tempt him?
As for Benedict, even though he’s a priest, he’s still very human and very male. Catalina is an extremely charming lady, and in some ways I think she reminds him of his past as a libertine. She brings out parts of his personality that he’s been working for years to lock away. It’s clear that he deeply cares for her, and that he can’t stand to be apart from her even though he doesn’t want to break his vows.
Unfortunately, because of their very different lives, and because of the society they live in, there’s no simple answers for these two…
I won’t spoil the story further, except to say that the author handles the tension well. I think the ending may be a little rushed, but I sort of liked it anyway for some reason. Other than that, the story is very professionally structured with peaks in all the right places. She tugs at the heart strings a few times, and she doesn’t hold back during the steamier scenes.
I’m quite certain that fans of historical romance will enjoy this a great deal, and I highly recommend it.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
The story takes place over a fairly long period of time, and almost has an epic feel. There’s plenty of nice historical detail and atmosphere, but she never lets the story get bogged down in that sort of thing. She mostly focuses on the characters, their struggles and interactions.
And the characters are definitely a strong point. The hero and heroine are both very well drawn. Sometimes I almost found their flaws frustrating, which is probably a good thing.
Catalina, a courtesan who falls for a priest, is the sort of person who wants to see the best in everybody, even when she shouldn’t.
Father Benedict is a former libertine who gave up his life of debauchery for the priesthood, and then wrote a fire and brimstone book about how others should renounce their evil lives the same way he did. By the time Catalina meets him, he has mellowed a great deal for reasons that are initially unclear.
It isn’t long before she falls for him. At first it’s almost a game to her—she relishes the idea of trying to seduce a priest—but then, as she comes to care for him, she starts to question her actions. Is she ruining his life? Is it wrong of her to tempt him?
As for Benedict, even though he’s a priest, he’s still very human and very male. Catalina is an extremely charming lady, and in some ways I think she reminds him of his past as a libertine. She brings out parts of his personality that he’s been working for years to lock away. It’s clear that he deeply cares for her, and that he can’t stand to be apart from her even though he doesn’t want to break his vows.
Unfortunately, because of their very different lives, and because of the society they live in, there’s no simple answers for these two…
I won’t spoil the story further, except to say that the author handles the tension well. I think the ending may be a little rushed, but I sort of liked it anyway for some reason. Other than that, the story is very professionally structured with peaks in all the right places. She tugs at the heart strings a few times, and she doesn’t hold back during the steamier scenes.
I’m quite certain that fans of historical romance will enjoy this a great deal, and I highly recommend it.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest, non-reciprocal review.
July 8, 2017
This is hands down one of the best romance novels I've ever read. The dynamic between a courtesan and a priest is very interesting and complicated. There are so many ways it could go wrong, as in the case of A Notorious Countess Confesses where the hero was a hypocritical, sanctimonious man who constantly judged and criticised the heroine for being a courtesan, even though he himself had slept with countless other women in the past. I wanted to see if there was someone else who could do this differently and Regina Eden gave me exactly what I wanted.
Throughout the book Benedict had never once judged Catalina about her profession. He recognised her a human being just like him, at a time when prostitutes were treated worse than dirt. I really wanted to read more from his perspective, the conflict between his faith and his growing feelings for Catalina would have been very interesting to read.
The author did a very good job of examining the hypocrisy and the blatant double standards that were rampant during the early modern era. And I loved how she made the hero rise above it, when so many authors write misogynistic/abusive heroes and say the hero is not at fault because his beliefs mirrored those in in his times.
As for Catalina, while I was sympathetic to her character, I had a hard time liking her in the first half when she set out to seduce Benedict simply to prove that he wasn't above passion. But I liked her a lot more once she gave up on the seduction and started to show other facets of her personality.
My only complaint is that the book is far too short. The last quarter felt very rushed, especially Catalina's time in prison or the fight between her and Benedict. The ending too, was very abrupt and a bit unbelievable. Would the court really let a prostitute accused of murder, and priest they deemed a heteric, off so easily? I would have loved to read an epilogue to explain things further and give more polished ending.
But well, even with all that, I loved the setting, the unique and well written characters and the sex scenes were pretty hot (lol) so this is a five start read for me. :P
Throughout the book Benedict had never once judged Catalina about her profession. He recognised her a human being just like him, at a time when prostitutes were treated worse than dirt. I really wanted to read more from his perspective, the conflict between his faith and his growing feelings for Catalina would have been very interesting to read.
The author did a very good job of examining the hypocrisy and the blatant double standards that were rampant during the early modern era. And I loved how she made the hero rise above it, when so many authors write misogynistic/abusive heroes and say the hero is not at fault because his beliefs mirrored those in in his times.
As for Catalina, while I was sympathetic to her character, I had a hard time liking her in the first half when she set out to seduce Benedict simply to prove that he wasn't above passion. But I liked her a lot more once she gave up on the seduction and started to show other facets of her personality.
My only complaint is that the book is far too short. The last quarter felt very rushed, especially Catalina's time in prison or the fight between her and Benedict. The ending too, was very abrupt and a bit unbelievable. Would the court really let a prostitute accused of murder, and priest they deemed a heteric, off so easily? I would have loved to read an epilogue to explain things further and give more polished ending.
But well, even with all that, I loved the setting, the unique and well written characters and the sex scenes were pretty hot (lol) so this is a five start read for me. :P
May 18, 2015
A courtesan and a priest. A story about religion and morality. When does love cross the line?
"My mother used to say that the eyes were the doors to the soul, the eyes held no secrets. They told everything about a person - love, fear, hate, desire. She always warned me to never let a man look at my eyes. She said it brings out emotions too rampant for virtuous girls to know."
No man had ever caught Catalina Cosme's eyes. That is until Father Benedict Mortimer crosses her path - during her confession! At first, she may have gone all out to prove that even holy men can fall, but all that changes when Catalina herself starts falling for the priest. I found myself liking the high-society-mistress for her boldness. Not only was she inquisitive, she was an honest person. I could only imagine the pain and agony that Benedict Mortimer had to endure whenever Catalina was near him - taunting him, daunting him, challenging him. A man of God, but tormented by his own demons, he finds salvation in the one thing that is shunned by society - Catalina.
This book was brilliantly written and the narrative had just the right tone. There were conflicts. There was humour. There was a plot. Above all, the characters were so wonderfully portrayed, making me believe they were real.
Instead of just saying 'I loved this book' or that 'It's a page turner', I'd like to say that this is one of those stories that'll stay with me for a long, long time. Who would have thought of making a priest and a courtesan fall in love? Regina Mhairi did. I could not put the book down, even when I thought I needed a break or some sleep.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something different. When or where does one draw the line? Apparently, when it comes to love, there is no line.
"My mother used to say that the eyes were the doors to the soul, the eyes held no secrets. They told everything about a person - love, fear, hate, desire. She always warned me to never let a man look at my eyes. She said it brings out emotions too rampant for virtuous girls to know."
No man had ever caught Catalina Cosme's eyes. That is until Father Benedict Mortimer crosses her path - during her confession! At first, she may have gone all out to prove that even holy men can fall, but all that changes when Catalina herself starts falling for the priest. I found myself liking the high-society-mistress for her boldness. Not only was she inquisitive, she was an honest person. I could only imagine the pain and agony that Benedict Mortimer had to endure whenever Catalina was near him - taunting him, daunting him, challenging him. A man of God, but tormented by his own demons, he finds salvation in the one thing that is shunned by society - Catalina.
This book was brilliantly written and the narrative had just the right tone. There were conflicts. There was humour. There was a plot. Above all, the characters were so wonderfully portrayed, making me believe they were real.
Instead of just saying 'I loved this book' or that 'It's a page turner', I'd like to say that this is one of those stories that'll stay with me for a long, long time. Who would have thought of making a priest and a courtesan fall in love? Regina Mhairi did. I could not put the book down, even when I thought I needed a break or some sleep.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something different. When or where does one draw the line? Apparently, when it comes to love, there is no line.
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June 7, 2021mais um livro de padre, luisa? sim, mais um livro de padre!
tô tentando terminar esse livro há semanas e não consigo, por isso não vou dar nota. cheguei a 87% e simplesmente não tenho forças pra terminar!!!! que ódio!!! acho que faltou alguma coisa na história pra me prender de verdade. uma pena pq acho que o plot é muito bom e a história é bem escrita
tô tentando terminar esse livro há semanas e não consigo, por isso não vou dar nota. cheguei a 87% e simplesmente não tenho forças pra terminar!!!! que ódio!!! acho que faltou alguma coisa na história pra me prender de verdade. uma pena pq acho que o plot é muito bom e a história é bem escrita
April 21, 2015
This is a superbly written novel. Somehow, the author has managed so well to make a character who is easily scorned, a "high society" mistress who not only accepts denigration and harm from the autocrat who hires her as a live-in mistress, but also tries to love him back, into a character with whom we can identify.
Similarly for the priest, who literally breaks his vows to God, we can identify with his struggles and his decisions, for he does this out of love and conviction.
Several romances follow a formula. That would be girl and guy meets, feel instant love, encounter obstacles, and alternate between lovemaking and break-ups or further challenges, then a fairy tale ending. Not this one. The implications for a relationship between a high society temptress and a wise and devoted (but also good looking and middle-aged) priest are well handled and deftly portrayed.
The atmosphere is seventeenth century France, with the Sun King on the throne. France is in the ascendency of one of its best eras, and the story takes place in that kind of setting... sort of like the setting for the 1988 movie Dangerous Liaisons.
I like books that have a good balance between flowery prose and practical scene-setting. I dislike books that have pretentious prose, similarly I want more than books that just lay bare the plot without embellishment. This book is well-written, striking the right tone and never boring me. Not only that, this book has a narrative. You know what to expect, and it carries you along but never in a predictable way. The plot is coherent and sound and the characters believable, along with the caveat that the characters are always of those that have the most optimal and drama-adjusted circumstances in a certain era, but that's exactly what a work of fiction is for, and it does it well!
Thank you for this great, absorbing read. I was not disappointed at all, and I recommend this. The issues of morality weave throughout this book, along with cleverly constructed thoughts and sayings of faith, love, and honour.
Similarly for the priest, who literally breaks his vows to God, we can identify with his struggles and his decisions, for he does this out of love and conviction.
Several romances follow a formula. That would be girl and guy meets, feel instant love, encounter obstacles, and alternate between lovemaking and break-ups or further challenges, then a fairy tale ending. Not this one. The implications for a relationship between a high society temptress and a wise and devoted (but also good looking and middle-aged) priest are well handled and deftly portrayed.
The atmosphere is seventeenth century France, with the Sun King on the throne. France is in the ascendency of one of its best eras, and the story takes place in that kind of setting... sort of like the setting for the 1988 movie Dangerous Liaisons.
I like books that have a good balance between flowery prose and practical scene-setting. I dislike books that have pretentious prose, similarly I want more than books that just lay bare the plot without embellishment. This book is well-written, striking the right tone and never boring me. Not only that, this book has a narrative. You know what to expect, and it carries you along but never in a predictable way. The plot is coherent and sound and the characters believable, along with the caveat that the characters are always of those that have the most optimal and drama-adjusted circumstances in a certain era, but that's exactly what a work of fiction is for, and it does it well!
Thank you for this great, absorbing read. I was not disappointed at all, and I recommend this. The issues of morality weave throughout this book, along with cleverly constructed thoughts and sayings of faith, love, and honour.
June 9, 2015
'The Last Confession' is a compelling and suspenseful romance set in Paris, 1663.
Eight-year-old Catalina’s mother is a common prostitute, who is arrested and condemned to the gallows. Catalina is taken into care by the elegant Madame Poisson, who grooms her as a courtesan and educates her to appreciate literature, art and writing. At 24, Catalina is contracted by a benefactor, the menacing Lord Guy Delacroix, who has a dark past and is drawn to her youth and beauty but tortures her when drunk. After being physically abused by him one evening she flees and is helped by the handsome Father Benedict Mortimer. Already having read the charismatic father’s writing, Catalina finds herself drawn to the mysterious man, who has led a debaucherous life before finding God and committing to the priesthood.
Many themes are woven into this tale, for example, social hypocrisy and double standards, the role of religion in 17th century Paris, sexism and the nature of sin. Regina Mhairi’s characters are well-developed and the dialogue between Fr Benedict and Catalina is especially captivating and intelligent with plenty of philosophical debate and reflection. The tension between the two is nicely built and often mesmerising. Catalina is an especially interesting character. Despite the tragic loss of her mother, her lack of choice in life and the way society disapproves of her profession, she is loving, resilient, and a truly decent human being.
Mhairi transports you to a detailed and authentic world from church confessionals, regal banquets, farming landscapes, city streets to bedroom scenes. Each setting is beautifully and sensually depicted. Her writing style is direct and compelling. I found it effortless to read and wanted to keep turning the pages.
I would highly recommend ‘The Last Confession’ for romance readers who are looking for a story that is different and entertaining. It will make you think long after you finish the last page.
Eight-year-old Catalina’s mother is a common prostitute, who is arrested and condemned to the gallows. Catalina is taken into care by the elegant Madame Poisson, who grooms her as a courtesan and educates her to appreciate literature, art and writing. At 24, Catalina is contracted by a benefactor, the menacing Lord Guy Delacroix, who has a dark past and is drawn to her youth and beauty but tortures her when drunk. After being physically abused by him one evening she flees and is helped by the handsome Father Benedict Mortimer. Already having read the charismatic father’s writing, Catalina finds herself drawn to the mysterious man, who has led a debaucherous life before finding God and committing to the priesthood.
Many themes are woven into this tale, for example, social hypocrisy and double standards, the role of religion in 17th century Paris, sexism and the nature of sin. Regina Mhairi’s characters are well-developed and the dialogue between Fr Benedict and Catalina is especially captivating and intelligent with plenty of philosophical debate and reflection. The tension between the two is nicely built and often mesmerising. Catalina is an especially interesting character. Despite the tragic loss of her mother, her lack of choice in life and the way society disapproves of her profession, she is loving, resilient, and a truly decent human being.
Mhairi transports you to a detailed and authentic world from church confessionals, regal banquets, farming landscapes, city streets to bedroom scenes. Each setting is beautifully and sensually depicted. Her writing style is direct and compelling. I found it effortless to read and wanted to keep turning the pages.
I would highly recommend ‘The Last Confession’ for romance readers who are looking for a story that is different and entertaining. It will make you think long after you finish the last page.
July 15, 2015
Forbidden love always attracts a reader's attention. When happening between a devoted priest and a courtesan that still has a heart under the cover of her seduction skills, things get even more interesting. The Last Confession builds an interesting romance and historical fiction from the mentioned ingredients. In the seventeen century the society was a bit different of today, yet the main character, Catalina thinks more like a modern woman not able to find her place in France under the reign of King Louis XIV. From this point of view, the novel looks a bit like a time travel story.
The most interesting character is Father Benedict, a fascinating priest with a tumultuous, wrapped in mystery youth, haunted by his past, and still struggling to find his way in life. In the end, his salvation proved to be his love for Catalina, while the same love turned to be fatal for the villain of the book, Guy, another man with a haunting past. What makes him different from Benedict is that he is not able to run away from his demon of possession, yet in his brutal way, he shapes Catalina's character as much as Madame Poisson's openness and Benedict's kindness.
The most interesting character is Father Benedict, a fascinating priest with a tumultuous, wrapped in mystery youth, haunted by his past, and still struggling to find his way in life. In the end, his salvation proved to be his love for Catalina, while the same love turned to be fatal for the villain of the book, Guy, another man with a haunting past. What makes him different from Benedict is that he is not able to run away from his demon of possession, yet in his brutal way, he shapes Catalina's character as much as Madame Poisson's openness and Benedict's kindness.
May 22, 2015
Catalina. Father Benedict. The most unlikely pair. And yet my heart wanted to see them together. I wanted Katalina to find love and kindness, something pure and not sullied. But of course loving a priest and desiring him is it's own sin.
The author brings us back in time when women were far from equals, but lustfully coveted. When religion ruled. Everyone. When the whims of a hierarchy defined the times and the minute details of every life in it's grasp.
Ms.Mhairi weaves an elegant tale of station and desire. The torment of longing is felt visceraly in Father Benedict and the defiant and captivating Catalina keeps the reader enraptured with her beauty, her spirit and despite her station, her goodness.
This is a wonderful story, written with a delightful flow. The author creates an engaging dialogue, and keeps the pace of the story just right.
I will be recommending this one. Wonderful job!
The author brings us back in time when women were far from equals, but lustfully coveted. When religion ruled. Everyone. When the whims of a hierarchy defined the times and the minute details of every life in it's grasp.
Ms.Mhairi weaves an elegant tale of station and desire. The torment of longing is felt visceraly in Father Benedict and the defiant and captivating Catalina keeps the reader enraptured with her beauty, her spirit and despite her station, her goodness.
This is a wonderful story, written with a delightful flow. The author creates an engaging dialogue, and keeps the pace of the story just right.
I will be recommending this one. Wonderful job!
May 10, 2015
I really enjoyed this novel. I usually spend my time reading books about 28 year old billionaires, race car drivers or rock-gods, so reading this period romance was an enjoyable and refreshing change of pace.
Catalina's inner strength and determination is admirable and I enjoyed her humour and mischievous side.
Benedict is a good soul, tortured by his beliefs and torn between the church and the woman he has grown to love.
I was taken back to a time where your station in life defines who you are. The book was so well written and so descriptive that I found myself smelling the smells she described as well as feeling the raw emotions of the characters and was left feeling grateful that I was born in these times and not 1663.
Great read.
I really enjoyed this story.
Catalina's inner strength and determination is admirable and I enjoyed her humour and mischievous side.
Benedict is a good soul, tortured by his beliefs and torn between the church and the woman he has grown to love.
I was taken back to a time where your station in life defines who you are. The book was so well written and so descriptive that I found myself smelling the smells she described as well as feeling the raw emotions of the characters and was left feeling grateful that I was born in these times and not 1663.
Great read.
I really enjoyed this story.
November 29, 2020
There are some things that are considered too taboo and an illicit affair with a priest all during a time when an unmarried and un-chaperoned women were considered to be of a certain class.. well, I have no idea how the main character got out alive. Though both characters seemingly fought off the attraction for each other before finally relinquishing & the female lead was basically a Stockholm Syndrome victim from her last “benefactor” it was definitely a confusing book that went on a bit too long for my tastes.
August 28, 2015
A very interesting historical story. The main character is a woman of low social standing trapped in an abusive relationship with her benefactor. Her journey through her life is deeply troubled and leads to unexpected places.
The story is well written and attention grabbing with a nearly epic style and timescale. The transformation of the characters is slow and very believable giving them a real feel.
I enjoyed this book fully and would recommend it to romance readers highly.
The story is well written and attention grabbing with a nearly epic style and timescale. The transformation of the characters is slow and very believable giving them a real feel.
I enjoyed this book fully and would recommend it to romance readers highly.
August 5, 2016
This is a romance that takes it time, all the while compelling you to follow where it's leading.
Here's the link to get it free: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Here's the link to get it free: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
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October 24, 2021I couldn’t quite put my finger on what this book reminded of until I repeatedly wanted to go back and watch Dangerous Liaisons. A highly sought after courtesan Catalina finds herself nearing the end of brutal year long contract. She makes her confession (a rarity) and happens upon a priest she is drawn to. Many times throughout the book you’re torn between feeling sorry for her (which this strong independent women would hate) and completely disliking her for setting her sights on this priest Benedict. Benedict is a beloved priest both by his congregation in Paris and the village where he owns an estate. Catalina was left orphaned after seeing her mother executed.
The writing at times really draws you in by its use of all your senses—the scents, the fabrics, even the feel of the earth. Catalina is beautiful, sensual and very well read. She’s been groomed for this life since she was taken in by a Courtesan as a child. Catalina is at the height of her career and the world is her oyster . Yet she’s not as in control as she would have us to believe. It’s a girl meets boy, girl gets boy, girl loses boy etc in Historical Fiction. I would honestly put this closer towards Erotica than Romance as some of the sex scenes become quite graphic. There are also some violent scenes. Without giving spoilers….I will say some plot holes exist and the ending seemed rushed and abrupt to me. I requested this book from #NetGalley and review is my honest opinion.
The writing at times really draws you in by its use of all your senses—the scents, the fabrics, even the feel of the earth. Catalina is beautiful, sensual and very well read. She’s been groomed for this life since she was taken in by a Courtesan as a child. Catalina is at the height of her career and the world is her oyster . Yet she’s not as in control as she would have us to believe. It’s a girl meets boy, girl gets boy, girl loses boy etc in Historical Fiction. I would honestly put this closer towards Erotica than Romance as some of the sex scenes become quite graphic. There are also some violent scenes. Without giving spoilers….I will say some plot holes exist and the ending seemed rushed and abrupt to me. I requested this book from #NetGalley and review is my honest opinion.
October 24, 2021
I couldn’t quite put my finger on what this book reminded of until I repeatedly wanted to go back and watch Dangerous Liaisons. A highly sought after courtesan Catalina finds herself nearing the end of brutal year long contract. She makes her confession (a rarity) and happens upon a priest she is drawn to. Many times throughout the book you’re torn between feeling sorry for her (which this strong independent women would hate) and completely disliking her for setting her sights on this priest Benedict. Benedict is a beloved priest both by his congregation in Paris and the village where he owns an estate. Catalina was left orphaned after seeing her mother executed.
The writing at times really draws you in by its use of all your senses—the scents, the fabrics, even the feel of the earth. Catalina is beautiful, sensual and very well read. She’s been groomed for this life since she was taken in by a Courtesan as a child. Catalina is at the height of her career and the world is her oyster . Yet she’s not as in control as she would have us to believe. It’s a girl meets boy, girl gets boy, girl loses boy etc in Historical Fiction. I would honestly put this closer towards Erotica than Romance as some of the sex scenes become quite graphic. There are also some violent scenes. Without giving spoilers….I will say some plot holes exist and the ending seemed rushed and abrupt to me. I requested this book from #NetGalley and review is my honest opinion.
The writing at times really draws you in by its use of all your senses—the scents, the fabrics, even the feel of the earth. Catalina is beautiful, sensual and very well read. She’s been groomed for this life since she was taken in by a Courtesan as a child. Catalina is at the height of her career and the world is her oyster . Yet she’s not as in control as she would have us to believe. It’s a girl meets boy, girl gets boy, girl loses boy etc in Historical Fiction. I would honestly put this closer towards Erotica than Romance as some of the sex scenes become quite graphic. There are also some violent scenes. Without giving spoilers….I will say some plot holes exist and the ending seemed rushed and abrupt to me. I requested this book from #NetGalley and review is my honest opinion.
August 31, 2020
I picked up this book because I love the concept of a priest tortured by love/forbidden love. The woman who tempts him is a courtesan trapped in a contract with an abusive man. The book is a compelling, atmospheric, and suspenseful read. I felt like I never quite knew what was going to happen next. The tone is very dark and there are some difficult violent scenes. The dialogue was well done and the love scenes extremely hot and sensual. I only wished that I experienced more from the point of view of the priest--mostly it was in her point of view with a bit of hopping into his head here and there. This could do with a proofread as there were several omitted pronouns and articles, etc., but it did not hinder my enjoyment. If you like a gritty romantic read with tortured characters, I think you will enjoy this. The setting in France is evocative and while the writing is somewhat spare I did feel transported.
September 22, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. I was a little apprehensive at first because priest love stories sometimes go south very fast - but some of the other reviews made me believe that there was more to the story than just a young priest who easily falls into bed with a young attractive woman.
I appreciated Catalina‘s backstory and the aspects of her personality and life outside of her relationship with Benedict.
I would have loved to have read portions of this from Benedict’s point of view though.
I appreciated Catalina‘s backstory and the aspects of her personality and life outside of her relationship with Benedict.
I would have loved to have read portions of this from Benedict’s point of view though.
November 15, 2020
I love a good de-frocking story, but no - not these characters (fairly one-dimensional) and not this story (simplistic, largely tension-free and uninteresting).
If you want to read a de-frocking story, I recommend reading Erich Segal's "Acts of Faith". The characters are much more fully formed/realized and the story is more interesting and has more heft than this farrago.
If you want to read a de-frocking story, I recommend reading Erich Segal's "Acts of Faith". The characters are much more fully formed/realized and the story is more interesting and has more heft than this farrago.
January 15, 2021
Father Benedict and a beautiful lady, Catalina Cosme, find themselves fighting forbidden love in this sad story of the courtesan and the priest.
June 23, 2015
A tragic tale. Of blight. Of woe. Of Guy Delacroix and His Misfortunes.
Horribly disfigured in an incident that would have left a normal man an alcoholic wreck of a human being, Guy triumphs over his bad luck and rises above his personal circumstances as only a True Hero can. Knowing what it means to be lost, alone and reviled by those around him Guy resolves to help other social outcasts such as himself. And so, with the best of intentions he turns an altruistic eye upon Catalina...
A Tramp and a Whore!
A known wastrel and confirmed trifler of men's affection since childhood, Catalina delights in the company of the unsavory--smokers, gamblers, drinkers, pornographers--and other miscreants.
Against this cohort of deviants, armed only with the Power of Love, Guy vows to redeem the Hopelessly Irredeemable and finally prove to the debauched Parisian society that has cast him into a tortured solitary existence...
True Love Conquers All...
And so Guy woos Catalina, showering her with clothing, shelter, delicious meals, spending cash, chauffeured luxury transportation and yes, even poetry. His charity and concern for her welfare knows no bounds. Alas for our hero...
A setback!
The dastardly Catalina has no plans to change from her libertine life of endless partying and instead throws her and I quote
"Jutting Breasts!"
At the feet of a heretic illegal immigrant aptly named Benedict (ever the betrayer), a profligate and shamelessly dissolute scofflaw who under a false flag converted to Christianity and poses as a member of the clergy to escape suspicion for the murder of a wealthy landowner after looting its inheritance of property and wealth.
Despite the social humbling, succumbing to his better nature, Guy soldiers on in his desire to help the less fortunate, and continues to aid Catalina in any way he can. However...
The plot thickens!
Benedict (ever the betrayer) possesses Catalina with his all-girls-love-bad-boys charm, and lured by the economic uncertainty of life on the dole, convinces Catalina to leave her benefactor.
One night, she doctors Guy's evening medicine and while he slumbers peacefully next to her in bed she stages an event seeped in wickedness and false outrage.
Catalina flees the house into the adulterous arms of Mr. Ever-the-Betrayer Himself.
Boo, hiss!
Guy endures this outrage with stoic humility. Consoling himself in the hope that Catalina is happy, he wishes only the best for her and returns to his life's mission of helping others.
However, one fateful afternoon he spots Catalina and seeking to confirm her happiness...
WAUGH!
I can't tell you what happens next, you'll have to read the book, but...
What I can say is this. Now our story takes a darker turn, this is no comedy we are reading. The villainess and her public welfare receiving illegal immigrant boyfriend use their powerful connections in the legal and religious industries to elude lengthy and well deserved prison sentences and instead escape overseas to Benedict's (ever the betrayer) homeland where they plot to raise an army of children. Assuredly to plague the peace loving lands of this world anew.
Forfend!
The Last Confession. A damning social commentary on the dangers of uncontrolled immigration policy, the inseparable collusion of greed and lust and the concomitant hazards of the selfishly absorbed hedonistic lifestyle.
Five stars!
For love that shines no matter the darkness, for the hope of a better tomorrow and for teaching us the importance of forgiveness for those who have wronged us...
And for Guy.
May his [RADIO EDIT] not be in vain!
Horribly disfigured in an incident that would have left a normal man an alcoholic wreck of a human being, Guy triumphs over his bad luck and rises above his personal circumstances as only a True Hero can. Knowing what it means to be lost, alone and reviled by those around him Guy resolves to help other social outcasts such as himself. And so, with the best of intentions he turns an altruistic eye upon Catalina...
A Tramp and a Whore!
A known wastrel and confirmed trifler of men's affection since childhood, Catalina delights in the company of the unsavory--smokers, gamblers, drinkers, pornographers--and other miscreants.
Against this cohort of deviants, armed only with the Power of Love, Guy vows to redeem the Hopelessly Irredeemable and finally prove to the debauched Parisian society that has cast him into a tortured solitary existence...
True Love Conquers All...
And so Guy woos Catalina, showering her with clothing, shelter, delicious meals, spending cash, chauffeured luxury transportation and yes, even poetry. His charity and concern for her welfare knows no bounds. Alas for our hero...
A setback!
The dastardly Catalina has no plans to change from her libertine life of endless partying and instead throws her and I quote
"Jutting Breasts!"
At the feet of a heretic illegal immigrant aptly named Benedict (ever the betrayer), a profligate and shamelessly dissolute scofflaw who under a false flag converted to Christianity and poses as a member of the clergy to escape suspicion for the murder of a wealthy landowner after looting its inheritance of property and wealth.
Despite the social humbling, succumbing to his better nature, Guy soldiers on in his desire to help the less fortunate, and continues to aid Catalina in any way he can. However...
The plot thickens!
Benedict (ever the betrayer) possesses Catalina with his all-girls-love-bad-boys charm, and lured by the economic uncertainty of life on the dole, convinces Catalina to leave her benefactor.
One night, she doctors Guy's evening medicine and while he slumbers peacefully next to her in bed she stages an event seeped in wickedness and false outrage.
Catalina flees the house into the adulterous arms of Mr. Ever-the-Betrayer Himself.
Boo, hiss!
Guy endures this outrage with stoic humility. Consoling himself in the hope that Catalina is happy, he wishes only the best for her and returns to his life's mission of helping others.
However, one fateful afternoon he spots Catalina and seeking to confirm her happiness...
WAUGH!
I can't tell you what happens next, you'll have to read the book, but...
What I can say is this. Now our story takes a darker turn, this is no comedy we are reading. The villainess and her public welfare receiving illegal immigrant boyfriend use their powerful connections in the legal and religious industries to elude lengthy and well deserved prison sentences and instead escape overseas to Benedict's (ever the betrayer) homeland where they plot to raise an army of children. Assuredly to plague the peace loving lands of this world anew.
Forfend!
The Last Confession. A damning social commentary on the dangers of uncontrolled immigration policy, the inseparable collusion of greed and lust and the concomitant hazards of the selfishly absorbed hedonistic lifestyle.
Five stars!
For love that shines no matter the darkness, for the hope of a better tomorrow and for teaching us the importance of forgiveness for those who have wronged us...
And for Guy.
May his [RADIO EDIT] not be in vain!
July 8, 2016
The Last Confession is by Regina Eden. It is a novel set in 1663 in Paris. The characters are realistic and come alive on the page. The plot is twisted and parts might seem to be unrealistic unless you remember the time period in which the book was written. Regina does a great job of keeping within these limits.
Catalina, until she was eight years old, was brought up in the slums of Paris by her Mother. Her Mother took great care of her and took her to St. Denis Basilica. Then when Catalina was eight, her Mother was hanged in the Place De Greve for performing abortions. Catalina was taken in by Madame Poisson and taken out of the slums. Madame Poisson educated Catalina above where most women of the time were. She was taught French, Greek, Latin, France’s history, current events and politics, philosophy, music, manners but most of all lovemaking. Madam Poisson turned Catalina into a courtesan. Eventually, she was placed with Lord Guy Delacroix for a year. He purchased her services and set her up as his mistress. Although he was not the worst of men, he wasn’t the best. He either ignored her or abused her. He threatened to cut her and destroy her beauty and thus end her trade. Most of what he did was hit her and cause bruises. However, he left her alone so much of the time that she got bored and read from his extensive library. One of the books she read was the autobiography of Father Benedict Mortimer. He was a libertine turned priest turned reformer. She was interested in seeing how a libertine could be forgiven enough to be a priest. She decided to attend confession and went to St. Denis Basilica. She had not been here to confession for sixteen years. She talked to Father Benedict and began a friendship with him. At first she did not realize he was the author of the book she read. When she found out, she realized he could give her answers no one else could.
Thus began a friendship that never should have been. She began attending Mass more regularly and talking to Father Benedict after Mass or in confession. They met outside the church for more conversations. This was made easier by her release from her contract to Lord Delacroix. She was released but he didn’t make a settlement on her but she didn’t mind.
Would the Church allow the friendship between Catalina and Father Benedict to continue? What could a priest have in common with a courtesan? What would happen if their friendship was discovered?
This gives a different view of what a courtesan was and what a priest was in the 1600’s. It makes for an interesting background to a romance. I really, really liked the book. I managed to read it in one sitting and still wanted more of their story.
Catalina, until she was eight years old, was brought up in the slums of Paris by her Mother. Her Mother took great care of her and took her to St. Denis Basilica. Then when Catalina was eight, her Mother was hanged in the Place De Greve for performing abortions. Catalina was taken in by Madame Poisson and taken out of the slums. Madame Poisson educated Catalina above where most women of the time were. She was taught French, Greek, Latin, France’s history, current events and politics, philosophy, music, manners but most of all lovemaking. Madam Poisson turned Catalina into a courtesan. Eventually, she was placed with Lord Guy Delacroix for a year. He purchased her services and set her up as his mistress. Although he was not the worst of men, he wasn’t the best. He either ignored her or abused her. He threatened to cut her and destroy her beauty and thus end her trade. Most of what he did was hit her and cause bruises. However, he left her alone so much of the time that she got bored and read from his extensive library. One of the books she read was the autobiography of Father Benedict Mortimer. He was a libertine turned priest turned reformer. She was interested in seeing how a libertine could be forgiven enough to be a priest. She decided to attend confession and went to St. Denis Basilica. She had not been here to confession for sixteen years. She talked to Father Benedict and began a friendship with him. At first she did not realize he was the author of the book she read. When she found out, she realized he could give her answers no one else could.
Thus began a friendship that never should have been. She began attending Mass more regularly and talking to Father Benedict after Mass or in confession. They met outside the church for more conversations. This was made easier by her release from her contract to Lord Delacroix. She was released but he didn’t make a settlement on her but she didn’t mind.
Would the Church allow the friendship between Catalina and Father Benedict to continue? What could a priest have in common with a courtesan? What would happen if their friendship was discovered?
This gives a different view of what a courtesan was and what a priest was in the 1600’s. It makes for an interesting background to a romance. I really, really liked the book. I managed to read it in one sitting and still wanted more of their story.
September 20, 2015
This book almost begins to straddle the line between historical romance and literary prose. It's deep, exploring taboo and sometimes uncomfortable issues. Neither the hero nor the heroine is an ideal historical romance character, but from this 'failure' comes the very story the author is trying to tell - people are not defined by the labels society gives them or those they give themselves, but rather they are defined by the strength of their character, their conviction, and ability to embrace the love they deserve.
Catalina was frustrating at first. She made little to no effort to escape her physically abusive benefactor. Moreover, her initial attempts to seduce Father Benedict came from a place of manipulation and spite. But in a beautiful and poignant character arc, Catalina develops true feelings for the priest and her quest to cause Father Benedict's downfall morphs into a real desire to see him succeed and to connect with him on a intellectual and spiritual level.
Father Benedict was a more compelling and likable character. He struggles to resist his desire for Catalina and maintain his priests' vows. Her presence in his life stirs up old memories he'd rather forget and it is through these memories we learn about the former libertine-turned-holy-father.
Together, Catalina and Benedict are able to forge a new path. Their love and devotion to one another is fascinating because it is forbidden and taboo. There are lots of emotional surprises in this novel and the author does a fantastic job of weaving lots of historical details into the narrative. I look forward to reading more novels by Ms. Mhairi.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Catalina was frustrating at first. She made little to no effort to escape her physically abusive benefactor. Moreover, her initial attempts to seduce Father Benedict came from a place of manipulation and spite. But in a beautiful and poignant character arc, Catalina develops true feelings for the priest and her quest to cause Father Benedict's downfall morphs into a real desire to see him succeed and to connect with him on a intellectual and spiritual level.
Father Benedict was a more compelling and likable character. He struggles to resist his desire for Catalina and maintain his priests' vows. Her presence in his life stirs up old memories he'd rather forget and it is through these memories we learn about the former libertine-turned-holy-father.
Together, Catalina and Benedict are able to forge a new path. Their love and devotion to one another is fascinating because it is forbidden and taboo. There are lots of emotional surprises in this novel and the author does a fantastic job of weaving lots of historical details into the narrative. I look forward to reading more novels by Ms. Mhairi.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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