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Deconstructing Delilah
A modern-day retelling of Samson and Delilah…
As the son of a preacher, Pope Blackwell believed he learned the difference between good and evil early in life. After all, it was beaten into him regularly. Now as an adult, he’s traded in his life of abuse for one where he holds all the power.
When a young woman strolls into his life full of more bravery than she should possess, he becomes consumed by her fire.
Delilah believed escaping her family’s abusive ways would be the hardest challenge of her life. Then she met Pope Blackwell.
One sinner and one saint. A world of differences between them.
Faith. Experience. Age.
His obsession only grows as she challenges him until he’s ready to topple any pillar that stands in her way, and she’ll fight every demon to be by his side.
As the son of a preacher, Pope Blackwell believed he learned the difference between good and evil early in life. After all, it was beaten into him regularly. Now as an adult, he’s traded in his life of abuse for one where he holds all the power.
When a young woman strolls into his life full of more bravery than she should possess, he becomes consumed by her fire.
Delilah believed escaping her family’s abusive ways would be the hardest challenge of her life. Then she met Pope Blackwell.
One sinner and one saint. A world of differences between them.
Faith. Experience. Age.
His obsession only grows as she challenges him until he’s ready to topple any pillar that stands in her way, and she’ll fight every demon to be by his side.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
76 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Alison Rhymes
15 books440 followersAlison lives somewhere in the shadow of a Pacific Northwest Mountain, bordered by the Puget Sound, and not too far from the country roads she grew up on.
When she’s not reading, she can be found avidly reading, traveling with youthful wanderlust, or slowly turning the inside of her home into her own personal houseplant jungle.
When she’s not reading, she can be found avidly reading, traveling with youthful wanderlust, or slowly turning the inside of her home into her own personal houseplant jungle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 30, 2023
I’m disappointed!
This book has a lot of potential and didn’t achieve anything.
It’s empty!
Unfortunately.
This book has a lot of potential and didn’t achieve anything.
It’s empty!
Unfortunately.
July 4, 2023
Sad Days, my most anticipated book in the series was a huge disappointment.😭
I was so fascinated by Pope's character when he appeared in book #2, surrounded by mystery.🥰
Unfortunately, his character did not live up to my expectations.
Pope's character was flat, weak, and flimsy. I mean, who was Pope other than that guy who couldn't live without the kinky lifestyle for a day?
Besides his one-dimensional characterization, I found him confused and inconsistent regarding his feelings for Delilah (he was allowed to have OW but wanted exclusivity from her. Amid this confusing situation, he declares his love for her). 🤷♂️ It lacked credibility.
Delilah was alright, but Pope's lack of personality had a huge impact on my reading experience, affecting even their chemistry.
Books #1 and #2 were way better.
I was so fascinated by Pope's character when he appeared in book #2, surrounded by mystery.🥰
Unfortunately, his character did not live up to my expectations.
Pope's character was flat, weak, and flimsy. I mean, who was Pope other than that guy who couldn't live without the kinky lifestyle for a day?
Besides his one-dimensional characterization, I found him confused and inconsistent regarding his feelings for Delilah (he was allowed to have OW but wanted exclusivity from her. Amid this confusing situation, he declares his love for her). 🤷♂️ It lacked credibility.
Delilah was alright, but Pope's lack of personality had a huge impact on my reading experience, affecting even their chemistry.
Books #1 and #2 were way better.
June 4, 2023
First, heed the warnings on the author’s site. Second, read the first two books by this author at the very least. You’ll understand what’s happening here well enough if you don’t, but Lorelei especially provides the angst and anger and misery and hope that allow Delilah her own journey and decisions in life. Third, get ready to squirm again. This author continues to push the boundaries and force us into slightly uncomfortable, angsty, “I want to be angry and I AM, but there’s something changing here that keeps me begging for more” stories. And trust me. She delivers exactly that and then some with this one.
Pope is the guy you want to love, love to want, and hate a little or a lot with the changing of the tides. He’s definitely a unique man, and he plays like he doesn’t want Delilah. Cruelly so, I might add. But sometimes, those who protest too much show their true desires…and that’s definitely true here. Yes, he’s brutal. But also honest. And he tries so hard to stay away. But Delilah isn’t stupid. She’s naive, yet growing. She’s not worldly, but oh is she quick to learn and so super smart that she grasps the games and nuances faster than Pope would ever expect. She’s also the woman who can bring him to his knees and want things he swore he never ever wanted.
And Delilah? You’ll love her. She’s not afraid to admit when she’s wrong. She listens. And learns. And is open to experience life. She’s also no shy little wallflower, just waiting for Pope to finally notice her. Oh, no. She lives her best life right in front of him and takes what she wants. She also cuts bait and leaves when she knows she’s unable to play the games that he seems to want to play. Trust me when I say Delilah will have you cheering for her long before the end of this book. And she’ll be exactly who she’s meant to be. She’ll also bring powerful men down in spectacular fashion, so get ready for Delilah and Pope to push you into loving them both. It’ll happen.
Pope is the guy you want to love, love to want, and hate a little or a lot with the changing of the tides. He’s definitely a unique man, and he plays like he doesn’t want Delilah. Cruelly so, I might add. But sometimes, those who protest too much show their true desires…and that’s definitely true here. Yes, he’s brutal. But also honest. And he tries so hard to stay away. But Delilah isn’t stupid. She’s naive, yet growing. She’s not worldly, but oh is she quick to learn and so super smart that she grasps the games and nuances faster than Pope would ever expect. She’s also the woman who can bring him to his knees and want things he swore he never ever wanted.
And Delilah? You’ll love her. She’s not afraid to admit when she’s wrong. She listens. And learns. And is open to experience life. She’s also no shy little wallflower, just waiting for Pope to finally notice her. Oh, no. She lives her best life right in front of him and takes what she wants. She also cuts bait and leaves when she knows she’s unable to play the games that he seems to want to play. Trust me when I say Delilah will have you cheering for her long before the end of this book. And she’ll be exactly who she’s meant to be. She’ll also bring powerful men down in spectacular fashion, so get ready for Delilah and Pope to push you into loving them both. It’ll happen.
June 27, 2023
4.5⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🚨Please check TW and CW on Alison Rhymes’s website as this book may not be suitable for everyone. These include (but are not limited to) gr00mīng (historical), religious trāumã, child ãbū$e (historical) and anxiety / PTSD.
Once everything is clear, jump in, because this is a good book!
I was so pleased to see some of Alison’s old characters again. What a surprise to find out that the main characters also used to be secondary characters in Alison’s very first series! I really did enjoy this read once I got over all the religious (but necessary to the story) stuff in it. Delilah’s (and even Pope’s) journey and growth are phenomenal.
Again, what I love about Alison’s books is that she’s not afraid to tread in the grey area, to make you question your beliefs (be they religious, ethical or personal). This book is no exception.
In this book you’ll find:
▫️Delilah and Samson modern retelling
🔹Touch her and dīė vibes
▫️Vīrgìñ FMC
🔹Age gap (16 years)
▫️Insta-attraction
🔹Talks of religious beliefs and tråumā
▫️Journey to recovery and “deconstruction”
🔹Praise kīńk
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘙𝘩𝘺𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🚨Please check TW and CW on Alison Rhymes’s website as this book may not be suitable for everyone. These include (but are not limited to) gr00mīng (historical), religious trāumã, child ãbū$e (historical) and anxiety / PTSD.
Once everything is clear, jump in, because this is a good book!
I was so pleased to see some of Alison’s old characters again. What a surprise to find out that the main characters also used to be secondary characters in Alison’s very first series! I really did enjoy this read once I got over all the religious (but necessary to the story) stuff in it. Delilah’s (and even Pope’s) journey and growth are phenomenal.
Again, what I love about Alison’s books is that she’s not afraid to tread in the grey area, to make you question your beliefs (be they religious, ethical or personal). This book is no exception.
In this book you’ll find:
▫️Delilah and Samson modern retelling
🔹Touch her and dīė vibes
▫️Vīrgìñ FMC
🔹Age gap (16 years)
▫️Insta-attraction
🔹Talks of religious beliefs and tråumā
▫️Journey to recovery and “deconstruction”
🔹Praise kīńk
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘙𝘩𝘺𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
July 31, 2023
4.5 🌟
June 30, 2023
I am not sure how this author does it but she always transports me into unique worlds that have me thinking outside the box. She takes romance and shakes it, often throwing tradition out. Eek. LOVE IT.
This story takes a look at religion aka a cult way of life in what I see as realistic but also thoughtful way. It shows the growth that has to happen for someone to change the scripts of childhood filled with grooming and abuse. Looking at my own upbringing in a dogmatic religion I recognize the feelings of our heroine Delilah.
Our hero Pope had his own horrific childhood of abuse, all in the name of religion. yes, you see that it’s still defines a big part of who he has become as an adult but you also see that he has risen above it.
If you are looking for your momma’s romance, ummm it isn’t here. So be forewarned. This is non traditional which includes a unique look at monogamy and sex. I can’t get over how much I appreciated this telling and how my mind is still blown.
I have so much to say but it will give to much of the story away. So I will just say, if you like a naughty read with awesome characters, this is it.
Happy Reading Everyone.
This story takes a look at religion aka a cult way of life in what I see as realistic but also thoughtful way. It shows the growth that has to happen for someone to change the scripts of childhood filled with grooming and abuse. Looking at my own upbringing in a dogmatic religion I recognize the feelings of our heroine Delilah.
Our hero Pope had his own horrific childhood of abuse, all in the name of religion. yes, you see that it’s still defines a big part of who he has become as an adult but you also see that he has risen above it.
If you are looking for your momma’s romance, ummm it isn’t here. So be forewarned. This is non traditional which includes a unique look at monogamy and sex. I can’t get over how much I appreciated this telling and how my mind is still blown.
I have so much to say but it will give to much of the story away. So I will just say, if you like a naughty read with awesome characters, this is it.
Happy Reading Everyone.
July 14, 2023
This was another fantastic read from this author! Alison Rhymes is becoming a staple in my library and I’m loving it! I really enjoyed this story I loved the characters it’s sexy the sex scenes are chefs kiss and I love seeing some past characters in this book. Definitely a must read I loved it!
July 11, 2023
This book was a slow burn for me. It took me a couple of chapters to like both Delilah and Pope. What I love about the book is the banter between these two and the use of bible verses. I've read some parts of the bible but this book made me realize that how I interpret the verses is entirely different from how others interpret it—that it could be twisted...which was fascinating to me because in my head there is only one interpretation. And apart from that, I admire how strong and resilient Delilah was.
July 9, 2023
There was so much stuff in here that I normally avoid because I can't stand but I didn't know was in this book and by the time it became clear it would be an ongoing theme I was invested in the story sooo idk I'm conflicted how I feel about this
I absolutely hated all the OW scenes and how little Pope cared that that would be an issue, and it was an issue for at least 80% of the book
But the escaping the cult side of things was super interesting, and I wanted to see Delilah heal and have a happy life, which is the only reason I continued reading, and I mean I guess she got that?
EDIT
nah I was being generous, I'm changing it to a 2 star
2/5 stars
I absolutely hated all the OW scenes and how little Pope cared that that would be an issue, and it was an issue for at least 80% of the book
But the escaping the cult side of things was super interesting, and I wanted to see Delilah heal and have a happy life, which is the only reason I continued reading, and I mean I guess she got that?
EDIT
nah I was being generous, I'm changing it to a 2 star
2/5 stars
September 2, 2023
Toted as “a modern-day retelling of Samson and Delilah” and it holds true. Rhymes was a new author for me last year and her first book tore my heart out (which she then stomped on and stabbed with her other books). She’s the queen of angst. I love it.
This books explores purity culture, deprogramming after escape from a religious cult, and bdsm. It was written well and it flowed nicely. I tore through it and barely paused to wipe away tears. Highly recommend.
This books explores purity culture, deprogramming after escape from a religious cult, and bdsm. It was written well and it flowed nicely. I tore through it and barely paused to wipe away tears. Highly recommend.
December 15, 2023
We will share our review on Buzzing about Romance Podcast Community. The title will be featured in the upcoming Quick Shot of Romance.
Click here to Listen ----> https://link.chtbl.com/BuzzingBooksPod
Click here to Listen ----> https://link.chtbl.com/BuzzingBooksPod
June 9, 2023
Rhymes is back, pushing boundaries even further than she has before with this angst filled, slightly uncomfortable at times read as we follow Delilah on her journey towards finding herself and making her own decisions in life.
Given the childhood she grew up in it’s understandable that Delilah’s naive when it comes to certain situations, however she’s in no way stupid, the girl is quick to learn, which comes in very handy when finds herself drawn towards the enigmatic Pope Blackwell. Pope’s a man who enjoys a particular lifestyle, one in which he holds all the power, when Delilah strolls into his life he finds himself just as drawn to her as she is to him, however there’s a world of differences between the pair, their age, experiences and faith to name a few. However Delilah’s not one for backing down from a challenge, thanks to her growing confidence she’s prepared to fight for what she wants, and what or rather who she wants is Pope.
Pope doesn’t make it easy, the way in which he responds to Delilah is done in a rather cruel manner, with him being deliberately obtuse more often than not, resulting in Delilah walking away when she’s no longer able to play his games.
Fast forward a few years and the pair once again find themselves in one another's lives, only this time round Delilah is more than ready to show Pope that she’s no wallflower, she’s finally discovering the young woman she’s meant to be, living her best life, taking what she wants, when she wants it, all whilst bringing Pope to his knees
ℜ𝔞𝔱𝔦𝔫𝔤: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 & 𝐵𝑒𝓎𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝐵𝓁𝑜𝑔
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
Given the childhood she grew up in it’s understandable that Delilah’s naive when it comes to certain situations, however she’s in no way stupid, the girl is quick to learn, which comes in very handy when finds herself drawn towards the enigmatic Pope Blackwell. Pope’s a man who enjoys a particular lifestyle, one in which he holds all the power, when Delilah strolls into his life he finds himself just as drawn to her as she is to him, however there’s a world of differences between the pair, their age, experiences and faith to name a few. However Delilah’s not one for backing down from a challenge, thanks to her growing confidence she’s prepared to fight for what she wants, and what or rather who she wants is Pope.
Pope doesn’t make it easy, the way in which he responds to Delilah is done in a rather cruel manner, with him being deliberately obtuse more often than not, resulting in Delilah walking away when she’s no longer able to play his games.
Fast forward a few years and the pair once again find themselves in one another's lives, only this time round Delilah is more than ready to show Pope that she’s no wallflower, she’s finally discovering the young woman she’s meant to be, living her best life, taking what she wants, when she wants it, all whilst bringing Pope to his knees
ℜ𝔞𝔱𝔦𝔫𝔤: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 & 𝐵𝑒𝓎𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝐵𝓁𝑜𝑔
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
June 15, 2023
To be honest I wasn’t really sure how I was going to feel about this book when i started it. It’s a modern day retelling of Samson and Delilah, to which I didn’t really know a lot about. But, I actually really enjoyed this book! It gives Salacious Players Club meets Priest and sprinkle in a little Sister Wives. There are some heavy topics in this so do check your trigger warnings. I loved the age gap, forbidden, and reformed bad boy elements of this story. I also just really love how strong Delilah was in the face of everything she had to overcome while simultaneously learning everything about the world. I love a strong FMC.
July 10, 2024
I wasn't sure going in I'd like this book and I was right. I wasn't a fan of Pope from the other books and after this I really am not one. He's good at preaching at others, but at his heart he's more of a hypocrite than anyone. Helping to take down Delilah's father and breaking some perv's leg doesn't change that. I also personally am not a fan of age gap stories and this book just highlighted all the reasons why I don't like them. The highlight was when he told her he couldn't be monogamous and she was fine with it especially the part where she had to be :-
As for Delilah I felt she was someone that was written to be tougher than she was. Yes its great she gets an education and she's so sophisticated she can be offered a job working with the dominatrix goddess of New Orleans. Countering that she's obsessed with Pope and often blames herself for his lack of interest not that fact that he is just an obnoxious prick. How does she try to remedy this - of course by working at the sex club he frequents all the time and watching him in action! Her fooling around with a few guys did nothing to elevate my disdain at the fact that she saved her so called 'not-so-special' virginity for him. This is the third book now in this series where the female lead is a virgin or practically a virgin and the male lead has been fucking anything that makes his dick twist. I am over it and quite frankly it turned me off the whole story. I also hate when the female virgin never informs her partner of this before hand. It makes all the consent that is preached in this book sound like BS on top of the fact that Pope drags her all over said sex club with no one saying a word!
When you have story with two characters you don't really give a crap about, add in some tropes you generally hate, and not enough of the side characters you like you end up with one star. The writing is good as usual, with a few grammar errors as usual, this story just did not do it for me.
As for Delilah I felt she was someone that was written to be tougher than she was. Yes its great she gets an education and she's so sophisticated she can be offered a job working with the dominatrix goddess of New Orleans. Countering that she's obsessed with Pope and often blames herself for his lack of interest not that fact that he is just an obnoxious prick. How does she try to remedy this - of course by working at the sex club he frequents all the time and watching him in action! Her fooling around with a few guys did nothing to elevate my disdain at the fact that she saved her so called 'not-so-special' virginity for him. This is the third book now in this series where the female lead is a virgin or practically a virgin and the male lead has been fucking anything that makes his dick twist. I am over it and quite frankly it turned me off the whole story. I also hate when the female virgin never informs her partner of this before hand. It makes all the consent that is preached in this book sound like BS on top of the fact that Pope drags her all over said sex club with no one saying a word!
When you have story with two characters you don't really give a crap about, add in some tropes you generally hate, and not enough of the side characters you like you end up with one star. The writing is good as usual, with a few grammar errors as usual, this story just did not do it for me.
Read
July 4, 2023DNF at 5% …. I just couldn’t get into it.
July 5, 2023
Meh, this story didn’t really do anything for me. I didn’t connect with any of the characters and the writing was just okay. Not for me.
June 26, 2023
Very intriguing and very riveting! I loved how the author developed Delilah’s character, a young woman who lived in a polygamist compound where she was kept ignorant of everything outside their walls. She was like an newborn baby, absorbing knowledge like a sponge, processing, many times overwhelmed by the new experiences and the people around her. In the compound, her only training was to be an obedient wife and mother, completely submissive to men. Girls in the compound start to be trained as soon as they develop, and the sexual training was lurid. It felt like a sex trafficking ring, using religion as an excuse.
I understood so well Delilah’s fascination with Pope Blackwell. A guy who looks dangerous, heavily tatted, and spouts scriptures at the drop of a hat. Their conversations include phrases from the Bible, and each knows where it came from. What they differ is on the interpretation they give to the scripture. Delilah’s interpretation is based on what she was taught to think and Pope starts to question her beliefs, her teachings, her faith and her religion. No wonder they were fascinated with each other! Pope had never met a woman so innocent but at the same time intelligent and so actively processing new information, comparing to her beliefs, and coming out with new postures. Delilah’s mind processes was a delight to read and I could understand Pope’s fascination with her.
Noah intervenes, worried that Delilah is beginning to learn about the world and worries that Pope may unconsciously manipulate her process. Pope understands and stands away.
Five years later, Delilah graduated in Finance from Tulane and started working at Lupus et Agnes, a sex club where Pope is a frequent customer. The place is apt because more than other women, Delilah had been trained from childhood in sex and submissiveness, so pair that with her curious mind, and it was an explosive combination that Pope could not be able to resist. And this is where the book took off like a rocket and blew my mind!
Their relation is unique, Delilah is a rare gem of new experiences and well thought out opinions. She’s open to new experiences, she’s intelligent, a fast learner, sweet and sassy and tells horrible dad jokes. She’s a complete delight! Pope with his worldliness is no match for this young woman. He’s older and now he feels his age like an anvil that weighs him down, and yet, she feels no compunction in teasing him, inciting him, making him fall for her. She’s at times reticent and others she’s a brat.
I loved the presence of Lorelai and Noah in the background. They are wise and loving and supportive. Her best friend Cookie is also a wise and balancing friend. Fig is the friends with benefits she needed to start learning sex experiences. I loved her changing faith beliefs as her knowledge increases and her analysis of the world changes.
As well as riveting, I liked how the book explores religious beliefs, Christianity, and the interpretations people have upon the Bible, the scriptures, customs and the way some manipulate the teachings to suit their purpose. Very intriguing and profound indeed! As well as super sexy and kinky!
I understood so well Delilah’s fascination with Pope Blackwell. A guy who looks dangerous, heavily tatted, and spouts scriptures at the drop of a hat. Their conversations include phrases from the Bible, and each knows where it came from. What they differ is on the interpretation they give to the scripture. Delilah’s interpretation is based on what she was taught to think and Pope starts to question her beliefs, her teachings, her faith and her religion. No wonder they were fascinated with each other! Pope had never met a woman so innocent but at the same time intelligent and so actively processing new information, comparing to her beliefs, and coming out with new postures. Delilah’s mind processes was a delight to read and I could understand Pope’s fascination with her.
Noah intervenes, worried that Delilah is beginning to learn about the world and worries that Pope may unconsciously manipulate her process. Pope understands and stands away.
Five years later, Delilah graduated in Finance from Tulane and started working at Lupus et Agnes, a sex club where Pope is a frequent customer. The place is apt because more than other women, Delilah had been trained from childhood in sex and submissiveness, so pair that with her curious mind, and it was an explosive combination that Pope could not be able to resist. And this is where the book took off like a rocket and blew my mind!
Their relation is unique, Delilah is a rare gem of new experiences and well thought out opinions. She’s open to new experiences, she’s intelligent, a fast learner, sweet and sassy and tells horrible dad jokes. She’s a complete delight! Pope with his worldliness is no match for this young woman. He’s older and now he feels his age like an anvil that weighs him down, and yet, she feels no compunction in teasing him, inciting him, making him fall for her. She’s at times reticent and others she’s a brat.
I loved the presence of Lorelai and Noah in the background. They are wise and loving and supportive. Her best friend Cookie is also a wise and balancing friend. Fig is the friends with benefits she needed to start learning sex experiences. I loved her changing faith beliefs as her knowledge increases and her analysis of the world changes.
As well as riveting, I liked how the book explores religious beliefs, Christianity, and the interpretations people have upon the Bible, the scriptures, customs and the way some manipulate the teachings to suit their purpose. Very intriguing and profound indeed! As well as super sexy and kinky!
June 8, 2023
“With Pope, I’m the moth and he is my flame.”
Deconstructing Delilah was a captivating and emotional tale with flawed characters and an angsty sometimes painful story. I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started this story, but I found myself unable to tear myself away from Pope and Delilah and their heartwrenching story of faith, love, and understanding.
“The scars remain, they always will. But they don’t rule over my life decisions. I haven’t succumbed, I’ve overcome.”
Delilah was such a strong character. I loved her. With her sheltered and tragic upbringing, you wouldn’t expect her to be so open to new experiences and sure of herself. She struggled to begin with, but she embraced her life and didn’t let anyone think that she couldn’t make her own decisions. Her strength of character was admirable and I loved how she knew her own mind and refused to settle for less than she deserved.
“Delilah is the first one I don’t want to control. She wouldn’t be her if she let me have that, and I don’t want to change her. I want to inspire her the way she inspires me.”
Pope was character that was hard to read and sometimes, I found him as consuming as Delilah did. He ran hot and cold, but you knew there were so many feelings just simmering beneath the surface. He angered me with his actions yet I was rooting for him to find his way and to realize that he could be what Delilah needed. His obsession with Delilah was a bit over the top, but his love for her was beautiful once he finally accepted that he could be in her life in the way they both wanted.
“Pope and I are fated. We’re God’s will, or we’re written in the stars. I’m not certain why, but I am certain we are meant for each other.”
The push and pull tension between these two was electric and their chemistry simmered below the surface of their every interaction. Pope made Delilah question everything which helped her begin to think for herself and to break out of her shell. In turn, Delilah also opened Pope’s mind up to a different way of thinking and living his life. These two accepted one another unconditionally and allowed each other to be who they were. This acceptance was beautifully demonstrated in how they eventually came to terms with their relationship.
“Delilah isn’t my weakness; she is my reason.”
Deconstructing Delilah was not an easy read and the situations and discussions Pope and Delilah have are sometimes uncomfortable, but this story was absolutely mesmerizing. These two were so right for each other and helped each other grow. They were truly meant for each other.
Deconstructing Delilah was a captivating and emotional tale with flawed characters and an angsty sometimes painful story. I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started this story, but I found myself unable to tear myself away from Pope and Delilah and their heartwrenching story of faith, love, and understanding.
“The scars remain, they always will. But they don’t rule over my life decisions. I haven’t succumbed, I’ve overcome.”
Delilah was such a strong character. I loved her. With her sheltered and tragic upbringing, you wouldn’t expect her to be so open to new experiences and sure of herself. She struggled to begin with, but she embraced her life and didn’t let anyone think that she couldn’t make her own decisions. Her strength of character was admirable and I loved how she knew her own mind and refused to settle for less than she deserved.
“Delilah is the first one I don’t want to control. She wouldn’t be her if she let me have that, and I don’t want to change her. I want to inspire her the way she inspires me.”
Pope was character that was hard to read and sometimes, I found him as consuming as Delilah did. He ran hot and cold, but you knew there were so many feelings just simmering beneath the surface. He angered me with his actions yet I was rooting for him to find his way and to realize that he could be what Delilah needed. His obsession with Delilah was a bit over the top, but his love for her was beautiful once he finally accepted that he could be in her life in the way they both wanted.
“Pope and I are fated. We’re God’s will, or we’re written in the stars. I’m not certain why, but I am certain we are meant for each other.”
The push and pull tension between these two was electric and their chemistry simmered below the surface of their every interaction. Pope made Delilah question everything which helped her begin to think for herself and to break out of her shell. In turn, Delilah also opened Pope’s mind up to a different way of thinking and living his life. These two accepted one another unconditionally and allowed each other to be who they were. This acceptance was beautifully demonstrated in how they eventually came to terms with their relationship.
“Delilah isn’t my weakness; she is my reason.”
Deconstructing Delilah was not an easy read and the situations and discussions Pope and Delilah have are sometimes uncomfortable, but this story was absolutely mesmerizing. These two were so right for each other and helped each other grow. They were truly meant for each other.
July 12, 2023
This book was a breath of fresh hair. I've read so many religious cult books, where the heroine is young, sexually naive ( always a virgin, except if she was raped withing the cult) and inexperienced and it's always the hero that helps her discover her sexuality. Pope's and Delilah relationship is beautiful. He helps her, defends her, makes her think for herself. He helps her shatter pre-conceived notions about her religion without tearing her down.
In this case, Delilah is a fascinating character. Growing up sheltered and part of a polygamous regilious group, she's not unfamiliar to sex as a way of breeding, but it's unfamiliar with sexual desire.
What I liked about this story is that Pope wasn't the only one responsible for her sexual awakening. She experienced sexuality with her freinds, without shame or regret. What is even more fascinating is that Pope "allowed" it.
Also, therapy!! I cannot stress that enough! She took years of therapy to deal with her trauma and you can really see that throughout the book. She is very mature and well adjusted. Despite never loving anyine before, Delilah demonstrates very calm and gronding qualities. She knows what she deserves and she's not shy about it. I loved her.
Oftentimes, in cultish books, the hero is super obsessed with her, alway possessive with her and always end up taking hr virginity almost right away.
Wether being influenced by Noah or not, Pope waited for Delilah. Let her mature on her own. Waited for her to grow up .Discover herself on her own. Doesn't mean he liked it when she was with other men (as we can clearly tell from his inner monologues), but he just let her be. And I quite enjoyed it!
Pope is not a monogamous men. But he changes his ways for her and that's what we always want from our heros.
Also, I can tell a lot of research was done to write this book. It's a very immersive dive on the world of kinks and BDSM. It's my first book from this author and I continue to read her work.
P.S. As a women who does not want children mylself, I'm happy to read about childless HEAs. I feel like it's always mandatory for a romance book to end on a epilogue of the pretty family, the dog, the white picket fence. This view, them, just happy with each other, it's so refreshing.
Read if you like:
- Decadent smut
- Religious cult
- Virgin heroine and experienced hero
- Self discovery
- BDSM and kinks
- Girl power
In this case, Delilah is a fascinating character. Growing up sheltered and part of a polygamous regilious group, she's not unfamiliar to sex as a way of breeding, but it's unfamiliar with sexual desire.
What I liked about this story is that Pope wasn't the only one responsible for her sexual awakening. She experienced sexuality with her freinds, without shame or regret. What is even more fascinating is that Pope "allowed" it.
Also, therapy!! I cannot stress that enough! She took years of therapy to deal with her trauma and you can really see that throughout the book. She is very mature and well adjusted. Despite never loving anyine before, Delilah demonstrates very calm and gronding qualities. She knows what she deserves and she's not shy about it. I loved her.
Oftentimes, in cultish books, the hero is super obsessed with her, alway possessive with her and always end up taking hr virginity almost right away.
Wether being influenced by Noah or not, Pope waited for Delilah. Let her mature on her own. Waited for her to grow up .Discover herself on her own. Doesn't mean he liked it when she was with other men (as we can clearly tell from his inner monologues), but he just let her be. And I quite enjoyed it!
Pope is not a monogamous men. But he changes his ways for her and that's what we always want from our heros.
Also, I can tell a lot of research was done to write this book. It's a very immersive dive on the world of kinks and BDSM. It's my first book from this author and I continue to read her work.
P.S. As a women who does not want children mylself, I'm happy to read about childless HEAs. I feel like it's always mandatory for a romance book to end on a epilogue of the pretty family, the dog, the white picket fence. This view, them, just happy with each other, it's so refreshing.
Read if you like:
- Decadent smut
- Religious cult
- Virgin heroine and experienced hero
- Self discovery
- BDSM and kinks
- Girl power
June 12, 2023
What an amazing ride!! I am seriously sleep deprived. I would have to go grocery shopping but still I prefer to stay here in front of my computer and talk to you about Deconstructing Delilah for hours.
Every time I close an Alison Rhymes book I question my wisdom. Every time I finish reading an Alison Rhymes book I question my psychology.
Every time I open an Alison Rhymes book I question my life.
We are not talking about heaviness here. And again I'm mistyfied and trying to understand how a meaningful reading, with an unusual subject, that doesn't do in vanilla, can be light at the same time. Okay maybe light to medium but still light.
In this novel Delilah evolves magnificently. Every detail of her gently growing maturity is there. She discovers life outside the ranch for the first time when she is not yet 18 years old and experiences life in a whirlwind of stimulus that she is not always ready to live. She still has everything to learn and she does it with incredible openness. Everything happens just at the right time and place for her and she is pacient like i'll never can be. We simple readers are the witnesses of her late blooming.
Dear Layla you are incredibly strong and beautiful. Even more than most people on this earth.
Pope! Oh dear Pope! You know what you want, your maturity leads you to the right place at the moment you decide. For you, the right timing will brings surprises, a surprise. Your wisdom (or Alison's, it depends) will allow you to win, not without difficulty but yes, to win the one you want. Who would have thought that one day you would admit your blunders. You remind me of my husband. Maybe one day he too will be able to admit his wrongs!! ahahahah I hope.
Warning !!! This book is not a cult or a way to indoctrinate anyone on any religion. We talk about faith, religion or cult yes but it has nothing to do with that, can you believe it? Another tour de force from Alison. It is only a medium to highlight a relationship between a girl who knows absolutely nothing about life and a man who knows it too well. It is only a platform to develop emotional maturity and to Deconstruct Delilah in another way that she was constructed.
If you hesitate because you're not interested in hearing about God, you're missing out completly.
Alison Rhymes is defently not, a one hit wonder!
Every time I close an Alison Rhymes book I question my wisdom. Every time I finish reading an Alison Rhymes book I question my psychology.
Every time I open an Alison Rhymes book I question my life.
We are not talking about heaviness here. And again I'm mistyfied and trying to understand how a meaningful reading, with an unusual subject, that doesn't do in vanilla, can be light at the same time. Okay maybe light to medium but still light.
In this novel Delilah evolves magnificently. Every detail of her gently growing maturity is there. She discovers life outside the ranch for the first time when she is not yet 18 years old and experiences life in a whirlwind of stimulus that she is not always ready to live. She still has everything to learn and she does it with incredible openness. Everything happens just at the right time and place for her and she is pacient like i'll never can be. We simple readers are the witnesses of her late blooming.
Dear Layla you are incredibly strong and beautiful. Even more than most people on this earth.
Pope! Oh dear Pope! You know what you want, your maturity leads you to the right place at the moment you decide. For you, the right timing will brings surprises, a surprise. Your wisdom (or Alison's, it depends) will allow you to win, not without difficulty but yes, to win the one you want. Who would have thought that one day you would admit your blunders. You remind me of my husband. Maybe one day he too will be able to admit his wrongs!! ahahahah I hope.
Warning !!! This book is not a cult or a way to indoctrinate anyone on any religion. We talk about faith, religion or cult yes but it has nothing to do with that, can you believe it? Another tour de force from Alison. It is only a medium to highlight a relationship between a girl who knows absolutely nothing about life and a man who knows it too well. It is only a platform to develop emotional maturity and to Deconstruct Delilah in another way that she was constructed.
If you hesitate because you're not interested in hearing about God, you're missing out completly.
Alison Rhymes is defently not, a one hit wonder!
July 7, 2023
“It’s not our fault Delilah, it’s not our shame to carry. We are survivors, not victims.”
Despite meeting Pope Blackwell, Noah’s friend in Brutal Play very briefly, he did have an impact on us, and we did hope that, at some point, we would hear his story. We’ve also been inquisitive about the Religious Cult Noah’s partner Lorelei fled from in that same book, and in Deconstructing Delilah, Alison Rhymes entwines both those threads into Pope and Delilah’s torrid love story.
‘Every touch from every man before had me shying away or flinching in fear. Pope elicits some other kind of feeling in me.’
This was a sizzling dark angsty romance, which gave us an insight into Pope’s world and his proclivities, as well as providing so much growth in the young Delilah Simms, whose only reason for existence, before her escape, was to marry her sixty-seven-year-old uncle, in the abhorrent Polygamous religious compound run by her father.
‘Because I’ve only feared it, I’ve never experienced desire. There is something that stirs in me with Pope nearby.’
With an age difference of nearly fourteen years, and the sensitive subject matter of this story, it is imperative to read the warnings on the authors website should you need to check the triggers warnings in your dark romances, because this book does contain many triggers that may affect some readers. Please heed the warnings.
“Oh, my dear Delilah, I never said I play fair.”
Delilah is well and truly smitten with Pope, on a physical, emotional, and intellectual level, Pope in return feels incredibly drawn to the innocent yet so worldly Delilah, however Pope has his own issues with his life as a preacher’s son. Can they both overcome their past to find a future? You’ll have dive in to find out. Whilst it didn't take us to dizzying heights, we did enjoy this one.
Available to purchase below
Ebook
Paperback
July 6, 2023
“It’s not our fault Delilah, it’s not our shame to carry. We are survivors, not victims.”
Despite meeting Pope Blackwell, Noah’s friend in Brutal Play very briefly, he did have an impact on us, and we did hope that, at some point, we would hear his story. We’ve also been inquisitive about the Religious Cult Noah’s partner Lorelei fled from in that same book, and in Deconstructing Delilah, Alison Rhymes entwines both those threads into Pope and Delilah’s torrid love story.
‘Every touch from every man before had me shying away or flinching in fear. Pope elicits some other kind of feeling in me.’
This was a sizzling dark angsty romance, which gave us an insight into Pope’s world and his proclivities, as well as providing so much growth in the young Delilah Simms, whose only reason for existence, before her escape, was to marry her sixty-seven-year-old uncle, in the abhorrent Polygamous religious compound run by her father.
‘Because I’ve only feared it, I’ve never experienced desire. There is something that stirs in me with Pope nearby.’
With an age difference of nearly fourteen years, and the sensitive subject matter of this story, it is imperative to read the warnings on the authors website should you need to check the triggers warnings in your dark romances, because this book does contain many triggers that may affect some readers. Please heed the warnings.
“Oh, my dear Delilah, I never said I play fair.”
Delilah is well and truly smitten with Pope, on a physical, emotional, and intellectual level, Pope in return feels incredibly drawn to the innocent yet so worldly Delilah, however Pope has his own issues with his life as a preacher’s son. Can they both overcome their past to find a future? You’ll have dive in to find out.
Ebook
Paperback
May 29, 2024
I'm not sure why it took me so long to read this book. It's been sitting on my TBR for what feels like forever. Maybe it's because it's described as a modern-day retelling of Samson and Delilah, and 1) I'm not a huge fan of retellings and 2) I thought I'd know how the story might end. I was wrong.
Pope Blackwell survived a life of abuse as the son of a preacher, and now, Pope makes sure that he's the one in control. Delilah escaped her family's abusive compound and she thought it would be her biggest challenge to conquer. Then, she met Pope. He's too old for her and his lifestyle is not one that she wants to be a part of, yet Delilah can't deny that he's the only man that makes her feel truly safe.
I liked Delilah from the very beginning and I enjoyed watching her come into herself and gain her strength and independence. Through much of this story, I had mixed feelings about Pope. While I could understand Delilah's obsession with him, I didn't feel like he was the right man for her. Eventually, he changed my mind.
If you've read any of this author's other books, then you've met some of these secondary characters before, and I enjoyed seeing them all again. I was actually glad that I saved this book to read, because I met Damian in a later book and I felt like maybe I wouldn't have given him as much attention if I'd read this book first. I'm definitely Team Damian.
I didn't find this book to be as angst-filled as most of this author's other books, but there is a bit of suspense and plenty of steam within these pages. There are some definite triggers in this story and a lot of religious references that may make some readers uncomfortable...or it may just give you something to think about. Either way, this isn't necessarily a dark read, but it's not light either, and it does deal with some heavy topics.
Pope Blackwell survived a life of abuse as the son of a preacher, and now, Pope makes sure that he's the one in control. Delilah escaped her family's abusive compound and she thought it would be her biggest challenge to conquer. Then, she met Pope. He's too old for her and his lifestyle is not one that she wants to be a part of, yet Delilah can't deny that he's the only man that makes her feel truly safe.
I liked Delilah from the very beginning and I enjoyed watching her come into herself and gain her strength and independence. Through much of this story, I had mixed feelings about Pope. While I could understand Delilah's obsession with him, I didn't feel like he was the right man for her. Eventually, he changed my mind.
If you've read any of this author's other books, then you've met some of these secondary characters before, and I enjoyed seeing them all again. I was actually glad that I saved this book to read, because I met Damian in a later book and I felt like maybe I wouldn't have given him as much attention if I'd read this book first. I'm definitely Team Damian.
I didn't find this book to be as angst-filled as most of this author's other books, but there is a bit of suspense and plenty of steam within these pages. There are some definite triggers in this story and a lot of religious references that may make some readers uncomfortable...or it may just give you something to think about. Either way, this isn't necessarily a dark read, but it's not light either, and it does deal with some heavy topics.
June 30, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Pope Blackwell is the son of a preacher. He has always believed that he learned the difference between good and evil at a young age. He took many beatings learning those lessons. But now as an adult he has traded the life of abuse he was living for one where he holds all the power. When a young lady named Delilah comes strolling into his life she is so full of more bravery than he has ever seen. The fire in her really consumes her. She too has escaped a life of abuse and she always felt that would be the hardest challenge of her life. But that was all before she ever met Pope Blackwell. She challenges him every step of the way as his obsession grows. However when he feels like he is ready to topple any pillar that stands in her way she knows that she will fight every demon to be by his side.
This is a modern day retelling of Samson and Delilah. There is just no way you read this book and don't fall for Pope but you're also going to hate him just as much. I know that makes no sense but you will see what I mean when you read the book. At times the way he acts like he doesn't want Delilah is just cruel. He is a brutal man who is very honest and one of the most unique characters I have read in a while. Delilah is a bit naive but she is learning every single day and you are really going to love her. She also isn't afraid to live her life loud and proud in front of Pope and certainly is not afraid to take what she wants. This book will take you on a journey that you will soon not be forgetting.
Pope Blackwell is the son of a preacher. He has always believed that he learned the difference between good and evil at a young age. He took many beatings learning those lessons. But now as an adult he has traded the life of abuse he was living for one where he holds all the power. When a young lady named Delilah comes strolling into his life she is so full of more bravery than he has ever seen. The fire in her really consumes her. She too has escaped a life of abuse and she always felt that would be the hardest challenge of her life. But that was all before she ever met Pope Blackwell. She challenges him every step of the way as his obsession grows. However when he feels like he is ready to topple any pillar that stands in her way she knows that she will fight every demon to be by his side.
This is a modern day retelling of Samson and Delilah. There is just no way you read this book and don't fall for Pope but you're also going to hate him just as much. I know that makes no sense but you will see what I mean when you read the book. At times the way he acts like he doesn't want Delilah is just cruel. He is a brutal man who is very honest and one of the most unique characters I have read in a while. Delilah is a bit naive but she is learning every single day and you are really going to love her. She also isn't afraid to live her life loud and proud in front of Pope and certainly is not afraid to take what she wants. This book will take you on a journey that you will soon not be forgetting.
June 27, 2023
Reviewed by Donna for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
This is gonna be a hard review to write. As I still don't know what I feel exactly about this book. Now, don't take that as it's bad it's far from bad. In fact, it's the total opposite. So expect an update to come once I've had time to digest it all fully.
This is a little different from her previous books but at the same time not. We see a brutal and honest account of the life that Lorelai lived for a short time through Delilah. But for Delilah, it was far worse. And with a guiding hand from Pope, she learns differently and slowly adjusts to becoming free. Now I've said enough on the basics but refuse to say more.
I just want to say that this book is brilliant and so well written that you just become consumed by it. I'm so pleased that I took a chance with this author when reading her debut last year, and I can honestly say she has become one of the top 10 authors I read. This book is a huge recommendation for me. But I think you need to read all her books to really get why her storytelling is so special.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
This is gonna be a hard review to write. As I still don't know what I feel exactly about this book. Now, don't take that as it's bad it's far from bad. In fact, it's the total opposite. So expect an update to come once I've had time to digest it all fully.
This is a little different from her previous books but at the same time not. We see a brutal and honest account of the life that Lorelai lived for a short time through Delilah. But for Delilah, it was far worse. And with a guiding hand from Pope, she learns differently and slowly adjusts to becoming free. Now I've said enough on the basics but refuse to say more.
I just want to say that this book is brilliant and so well written that you just become consumed by it. I'm so pleased that I took a chance with this author when reading her debut last year, and I can honestly say she has become one of the top 10 authors I read. This book is a huge recommendation for me. But I think you need to read all her books to really get why her storytelling is so special.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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December 7, 2023
Delilah and Pope
First things first:
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶/🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶(4/5)
Medium burn
M/F with some M/F/M
Interconnected Standalone
Violence/gore (2/5)
Tropes: age gap, virgin, found family, history of trauma
Premise at its simplest: Main female character has spent her life trapped in a religious cult without access to the regular world and once she's rescued she meets Pope who she feels a strong connection to immediately. But Pope is older, has dark and depraved tastes and is determined to protect her from himself.
My thoughts: this was an interesting and slightly unconventional romance novel. What these characters are looking for in the future and in a happy ending is a little less traditional that we typically see in romance books. But I liked it. This story centers pretty heavily on a sex club and the goings-on inside it so be forewarned that even though this is a male female romance, there is some dabbling in other types of activities along the way. Besides that, the backstory with the religious cult is a bit heavy and could be triggering for some.
All in all I enjoyed it. This author consistently churns out solid stories that break the tropey and coolie cutter mold that most romance novels come in. Her books push the line between what's common and what's uncomfortable. Out of this series of interconnected Standalones she's addressed cheating, cults, promiscuity, various kinks, bi-curiousness, etc...it's always nice to read a book where you know from the start things aren't so easy to predict.
I hope we get spin offs with Cookie, Fig and Damian.
First things first:
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶/🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶(4/5)
Medium burn
M/F with some M/F/M
Interconnected Standalone
Violence/gore (2/5)
Tropes: age gap, virgin, found family, history of trauma
Premise at its simplest: Main female character has spent her life trapped in a religious cult without access to the regular world and once she's rescued she meets Pope who she feels a strong connection to immediately. But Pope is older, has dark and depraved tastes and is determined to protect her from himself.
My thoughts: this was an interesting and slightly unconventional romance novel. What these characters are looking for in the future and in a happy ending is a little less traditional that we typically see in romance books. But I liked it. This story centers pretty heavily on a sex club and the goings-on inside it so be forewarned that even though this is a male female romance, there is some dabbling in other types of activities along the way. Besides that, the backstory with the religious cult is a bit heavy and could be triggering for some.
All in all I enjoyed it. This author consistently churns out solid stories that break the tropey and coolie cutter mold that most romance novels come in. Her books push the line between what's common and what's uncomfortable. Out of this series of interconnected Standalones she's addressed cheating, cults, promiscuity, various kinks, bi-curiousness, etc...it's always nice to read a book where you know from the start things aren't so easy to predict.
I hope we get spin offs with Cookie, Fig and Damian.
June 28, 2023
This is my first book by this author. I was immediately gripped by the first chapter, as it follows the story of a young girl Delilah, who escapes from her Polygamist religious family. The book addresses some very complex and difficult themes whilst detailing Delilahs rehabilitation and integration into world outside of everything she has known. It is done so superbly! You feel the discomfort of Delilah's experience, but it is balanced with the support and narrative of both Delilah and those around her, helping her process life. The unsung hero of this book is Noah, who quietly supported her, he is the husband of her cousin Lorelai. Noah is friends with Pope, the male main character, who has his own childhood demons to face. But the awareness he shows about Delilah and her acclimatisation is insightful, and guided in the beginning by Noah. Part of me was like stay away Pope, the other part of me hurry it up!
I don't want to give too much away, but the other constant characters around Delilah are amazing! Its a tough read in the most amazing way! It takes you through Delilah's deconstruction process, an insight we would rarely get. The fine balance of tropes in this book is amazingly handled. Reading other reviews I am off to read Lorelai's story. If you want your mind opened to a world that is closed off to us, balanced with romance and exploration, this is a must read. However, it is worth reviewing the triggers beforehand to help prepare. 5 out of 5 stars!
I don't want to give too much away, but the other constant characters around Delilah are amazing! Its a tough read in the most amazing way! It takes you through Delilah's deconstruction process, an insight we would rarely get. The fine balance of tropes in this book is amazingly handled. Reading other reviews I am off to read Lorelai's story. If you want your mind opened to a world that is closed off to us, balanced with romance and exploration, this is a must read. However, it is worth reviewing the triggers beforehand to help prepare. 5 out of 5 stars!
June 24, 2023
This book grabbed my attention and had me hanging off every word! Delilah has escaped her religious cult upbringing and meets moody Pope, a man knowledgeable about religion yet no longer religious himself. Their attraction is instant but a whole life separates them as Delilah navigates her new world and Pope has complex tastes not suited for someone so innocent. Their paths reconnect again years later and while Delilah has found herself is it enough for her and Pope to overcome their vast differences.
The plot is so much more complex then what I laid out and clicks the critical thinking light on, especially as the main characters debate religion. Pope is grumpy, intelligent, domineering, and captivated by the beautiful Delilah. She's forbidden fruit to this man of dark tastes. He tries to push her away, but Delilah is stubborn, resilient, and strong, pushing through his barriers for a chance to keep him. There was such great angst here along with plenty of steam. I would warn readers you'll encounter religious themes and intimate scenes not between the main characters, but both made sense within the story. I loved it and though this is my first book by this author it won't be my last
The plot is so much more complex then what I laid out and clicks the critical thinking light on, especially as the main characters debate religion. Pope is grumpy, intelligent, domineering, and captivated by the beautiful Delilah. She's forbidden fruit to this man of dark tastes. He tries to push her away, but Delilah is stubborn, resilient, and strong, pushing through his barriers for a chance to keep him. There was such great angst here along with plenty of steam. I would warn readers you'll encounter religious themes and intimate scenes not between the main characters, but both made sense within the story. I loved it and though this is my first book by this author it won't be my last
June 27, 2023
Reviewed For Saucy Review
On Kinky Korner
This is gonna be a hard review to write. As I still don't know what I feel exactly about this book. Now, don't take that as it's bad it's far from bad. In fact, it's the total opposite. So expect an update to come once I've had time to digest it all fully.
This is a little different from her previous books but at the same time not. We see a brutal and honest account of the life that Lorelai lived for a short time through Delilah. But for Delilah, it was far worse. And with a guiding hand from Pope, she learns differently and slowly adjuats to becoming free. Now I've said enough on the basics but refuse to say more.
I just want to say that this book is brilliant and so well written that you just become consumed by it. I'm so pleased that I took a chance with this author when reading her debut last year, and I can honestly say she has become one of the top 10 authors I read. This book is a huge recommend from me. But I think you need to read all her books to really get why her storytelling is so special.
On Kinky Korner
This is gonna be a hard review to write. As I still don't know what I feel exactly about this book. Now, don't take that as it's bad it's far from bad. In fact, it's the total opposite. So expect an update to come once I've had time to digest it all fully.
This is a little different from her previous books but at the same time not. We see a brutal and honest account of the life that Lorelai lived for a short time through Delilah. But for Delilah, it was far worse. And with a guiding hand from Pope, she learns differently and slowly adjuats to becoming free. Now I've said enough on the basics but refuse to say more.
I just want to say that this book is brilliant and so well written that you just become consumed by it. I'm so pleased that I took a chance with this author when reading her debut last year, and I can honestly say she has become one of the top 10 authors I read. This book is a huge recommend from me. But I think you need to read all her books to really get why her storytelling is so special.
January 25, 2024
I rarely lose sleep over a book, I didn't sleep until I finished it.
I recently discovered this author through a recommendation. This is actually the fourth book of hers I’ve read, but only now did I stop to write a review.
While the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the others before it made it for me to fully understand it.
Honestly, it makes me wonder about the author, where did she come up with this topic, was it something she grew up with? Talking about faith in books is not easy, it could backfire and people attack the author, but it’s not like she’s trying to force her view on us, more like makes us question ourselves.
Delilah met Pope when she was barely eighteen, he is twice her age, while some wouldn’t think in this time and age that’s frowned upon, she was like a child finding her steps in the world.
From the very first moment she saw him, she felt something. That only grew when they started spending time together, they weren’t friends, he wasn’t her mentor, and he too saw something in her and wanted to give her the choice to be whoever she wanted to be. I struggle to write down what I loved about it because it’s too complex.
I simply loved it, it was really emotional. It’s actually divided in two parts; it begins with her being just an eighteen years old college girl and after a few chapters continues with her starting a career and meeting Pope again. Life went on without them being in touch, until the time was right for them to meet again. Pope didn’t make it easy for her, trying really hard to ignore what was in front of them. But she grew into the woman that knew what she wanted and went after him.
I recently discovered this author through a recommendation. This is actually the fourth book of hers I’ve read, but only now did I stop to write a review.
While the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the others before it made it for me to fully understand it.
Honestly, it makes me wonder about the author, where did she come up with this topic, was it something she grew up with? Talking about faith in books is not easy, it could backfire and people attack the author, but it’s not like she’s trying to force her view on us, more like makes us question ourselves.
Delilah met Pope when she was barely eighteen, he is twice her age, while some wouldn’t think in this time and age that’s frowned upon, she was like a child finding her steps in the world.
From the very first moment she saw him, she felt something. That only grew when they started spending time together, they weren’t friends, he wasn’t her mentor, and he too saw something in her and wanted to give her the choice to be whoever she wanted to be. I struggle to write down what I loved about it because it’s too complex.
I simply loved it, it was really emotional. It’s actually divided in two parts; it begins with her being just an eighteen years old college girl and after a few chapters continues with her starting a career and meeting Pope again. Life went on without them being in touch, until the time was right for them to meet again. Pope didn’t make it easy for her, trying really hard to ignore what was in front of them. But she grew into the woman that knew what she wanted and went after him.
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