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Sacred Hearts
When the youngest Pope in centuries, Marco Ricci, and Italy's reformist Prime Minister, Matteo Valentini, meet to tackle corruption within the Italian and Vatican states, neither expects the connection that sparks between them. As their forbidden relationship deepens, a dangerous conspiracy threatens both Church and State. With enemies in the shadows and their positions at stake, Marco and Matteo discover that their greatest strength against corruption might be the very love their opponents seek to destroy.
A gripping tale of intrigue, faith, and the courage to stand for both truth and love.
This novel explores complex themes regarding LGBTQ+ identity within religious contexts and challenges to traditional Catholic doctrine that some readers may find challenging.
A gripping tale of intrigue, faith, and the courage to stand for both truth and love.
This novel explores complex themes regarding LGBTQ+ identity within religious contexts and challenges to traditional Catholic doctrine that some readers may find challenging.
316 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 6, 2025
5 Stars
If, like me, you read the synopsis for this story and were immediately and enthusiastically interested in reading a forbidden M/M romance between one of the world’s youngest elected Pope’s and Italy’s youngest-ever serving Prime Minister, then I’m pretty sure you’ll be just as consumed by this story as I was.
As expected, I ATE THIS UP! Already hugely fascinated by the inner workings of the Catholic Church and the history of the Papacy, bolstered by my recent love of the film Conclave, and paired with my obsession with a truly juicy forbidden M/M romance, this story and this book couple managed to hit all the right spots for me personally.
Having spent a lot of my time this year acquainting myself with the works of new-to-me (new-to-everyone) M/M author C.G. Macington, I already knew what to expect in terms of his writing quality, character depth, level of romantic focus, emotional resonance, and, most impressively, the notable theme-specific research that Macington continues to showcase in each of his stories.
Here, I was left riveted and awe-struck by the attention to detail Macington implemented, especially in terms of governmental and Church inner-workings. Sure, some of it was probably inaccurate or completely fictitious to tell a good story, but I bought into it all, hook, line, and sinker, and I think that ability as a writer is hugely remarkable: to blend reality with fiction and make it all feel real.
As other reviews have detailed, there is a lot of talk and focus on faith and politics in this story, and if you really don’t enjoy those themes, in life or in your reading, you may struggle here. I’m not at all religious, yet I personally found every theme-specific discussion to be deeply thought-provoking here. I especially loved the progressive, queer-positive stances this story explored and championed, in relation to the Catholic Church, as supported by the lead characters and their closest allies throughout the story.
For a premise that, on initial consideration, seemed so widely far-fetched in today’s fractured society, I was blown away by how intelligent and thoughtful this story seemed, in relation to the state of the Church in the here and now, voicing all-sides of potential arguments for reform and exploring potential avenues towards positive change that, honestly, didn’t end up seeming all that far-fetched to even my jaded heart and mind.
As a love story, I was smitten with Marco (the Pope) and Matteo (the Prime Minister), and although their interactions and actual page-time was probably more limited than I usually prefer in my romance reads, I was still completely swept up in their tender and intimate connection, and in their personal (and joint) missions to implement big changes, with the powers of responsibility that they’d each undertaken at such young ages (early thirties, the both of them).
For some added excitement and fun, Marco and Matteo become the targets of several assassination attempts throughout the story, due to backlash both personally and professionally motivated, giving the already engaging forbidden romance story a bit of a romantic-suspense vibe that helped propel the plot along nicely.
There are several things I could probably niggle at here (self-preservation much?!), but what I loved about this story far outweighed any small issues I had. When I compare my enjoyment here to most of the books I’ve read this year, this one easily ranks among my favourite reads of 2025 and therefore deserves all the stars and all the praise I have to give. Honestly, I’m forcing some serious self-control right now, not to just start reading this story again immediately, I had that good a time.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! <3
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If, like me, you read the synopsis for this story and were immediately and enthusiastically interested in reading a forbidden M/M romance between one of the world’s youngest elected Pope’s and Italy’s youngest-ever serving Prime Minister, then I’m pretty sure you’ll be just as consumed by this story as I was.
As expected, I ATE THIS UP! Already hugely fascinated by the inner workings of the Catholic Church and the history of the Papacy, bolstered by my recent love of the film Conclave, and paired with my obsession with a truly juicy forbidden M/M romance, this story and this book couple managed to hit all the right spots for me personally.
Having spent a lot of my time this year acquainting myself with the works of new-to-me (new-to-everyone) M/M author C.G. Macington, I already knew what to expect in terms of his writing quality, character depth, level of romantic focus, emotional resonance, and, most impressively, the notable theme-specific research that Macington continues to showcase in each of his stories.
Here, I was left riveted and awe-struck by the attention to detail Macington implemented, especially in terms of governmental and Church inner-workings. Sure, some of it was probably inaccurate or completely fictitious to tell a good story, but I bought into it all, hook, line, and sinker, and I think that ability as a writer is hugely remarkable: to blend reality with fiction and make it all feel real.
As other reviews have detailed, there is a lot of talk and focus on faith and politics in this story, and if you really don’t enjoy those themes, in life or in your reading, you may struggle here. I’m not at all religious, yet I personally found every theme-specific discussion to be deeply thought-provoking here. I especially loved the progressive, queer-positive stances this story explored and championed, in relation to the Catholic Church, as supported by the lead characters and their closest allies throughout the story.
For a premise that, on initial consideration, seemed so widely far-fetched in today’s fractured society, I was blown away by how intelligent and thoughtful this story seemed, in relation to the state of the Church in the here and now, voicing all-sides of potential arguments for reform and exploring potential avenues towards positive change that, honestly, didn’t end up seeming all that far-fetched to even my jaded heart and mind.
As a love story, I was smitten with Marco (the Pope) and Matteo (the Prime Minister), and although their interactions and actual page-time was probably more limited than I usually prefer in my romance reads, I was still completely swept up in their tender and intimate connection, and in their personal (and joint) missions to implement big changes, with the powers of responsibility that they’d each undertaken at such young ages (early thirties, the both of them).
For some added excitement and fun, Marco and Matteo become the targets of several assassination attempts throughout the story, due to backlash both personally and professionally motivated, giving the already engaging forbidden romance story a bit of a romantic-suspense vibe that helped propel the plot along nicely.
There are several things I could probably niggle at here (self-preservation much?!), but what I loved about this story far outweighed any small issues I had. When I compare my enjoyment here to most of the books I’ve read this year, this one easily ranks among my favourite reads of 2025 and therefore deserves all the stars and all the praise I have to give. Honestly, I’m forcing some serious self-control right now, not to just start reading this story again immediately, I had that good a time.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! <3
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2025
The Pope got dick ONE time and was like 'Nah. The church has to change its view on this. God can not have intended for some of us not to get some.'
Dick too good he realized the expectation of celibacy for the clergy is inhumane. A violation of basic human rights.
Going to start this off with some caveats.
One.
I went into this knowing I'd love it. You know how you read a blurb and you just KNOW? Religious angst, forbidden love, actual understandable reasons for hiding? Yeah. From the start, I knew this would be my jam. FYI this was an ARC, but I have a lot of superlative thoughts about it that I think it's only fair that I make that clear before getting into it.
Two.
I'm not religious in any conventional understanding of the term. So going in, it was unlikely that I'd find any triggers. I'm sure this will differ from person to person but the title is pretty clear. A Vatican MM romance. It's exactly what you'd expect. If papal fucks are outside your comfort zone then leave this alone.
Three.
I started this with a voracious appetite for scandal but I ended up re-annoyed with the church and Abrahamic religions in general (yes. Again, and still) so bear with me if my review ends up in theological musings that nobody asked for.
Right off the bat I want to say that THIS is the kind of book for which the tag 'forbidden love' is appropriate. Let's stop this tomfoolery of calling brother's best friend romances 'forbidden'.
And can we just talk for a second about the audacity required to proposition a POPE?!
I feel like this is the sort of shot you don't take unless you are 1000% certain. And maybe not even then.
So Matteo has massive balls. Probably around 4 of them.
Matteo and Marco (henceforth to be known as M&M) met once at a state visit and in all honesty, I feel like Marco made it clear in their very first meeting that he was at the very least an ally.
Somehow these two (both pretty much closeted) got onto the topic of homosexuality in their very first meeting and to Matteo's surprise, Marco seemed very tolerant and non-judgemental.
Oh, FYI....
Marco = Pope
Matteo = Italian PM
Next thing we know, Matteo is very willing to share and involve Marco in his corruption investigations that encompass church funding for illegal activities through and for politicians, although before they met, Matteo had thought Marco would be a stumbling block and try to shield 'untouchable Vatican accounts' like many around him.
All of a sudden these two are crushing hard on each other and finding reasons why they need to meet constantly to 'liaise and coordinate anti-corruption efforts' and set up a 'secure private channel of communication' between the two of them.
Uh huh. Because we were born yesterday.💀
Honestly these two were so obvious at the start(and honestly throughout, but more on that later).
It got to a point where Sister Lucia was setting up private meetings for them in the Vatican library and announcing how the cameras would 'mysteriously malfunction' during their two hour visits. Lololol. Not to mention reassuring the Pope that she's seen how lonely his job can be and she doesn't judge him for 'taking his comforts where he can find them'.
😂😂😂😂😏Never seen two people with less regard for their secrecy. And these two had more reason than the ordinary person to keep things hidden.
But nooooo, they simply couldn't help themselves. Matteo was out here sending papal booty calls like Marco was just Eddy from the gym.
'Need to see you. Not official business. Secure location. Tonight?'
💀💀💀💀
Honestly, I'm surprised cardinals did not keep happening upon them. The whole time, I thought their undoing would be them caught in flagrante delicto somewhere on holy land.
And we KNOW a cassock provides very easy access, so.
Anyway, they are up and at it. Whole time, they're uncovering corruption in both their organizations and dealing with death threats.
The funniest bit was the PM walking around with lube during an active assassination attempt? Does he just have lube on him at all times in case he runs into the pope?
Either way, this is probably the kind of 360° thinking that got him very far in politics so both Marco and I appreciated it.
And yay! A papal fuck happened. At that point I was sure that at the very least, this would be what cemented my place in hell because wanting very badly for the pope to get it(hard) was my primary concern in life.
No condoms, too, but I'm guessing when you fuck the pope, you're banking on divine protection from STDs.
Some things required special suspension of disbelief....
So these two were left unsupervised in an underground bunker and when their security details returned they couldn't smell the unholiness that had occurred? Hah!
Has to have been some god-tier ventilation in that bunker.
ANYWAY.......The entire reason I read this (Exposure! Scandalo! Hear ye! Hear ye!) finally happened and it was all the deliciousness I wanted.
Imagine being in a relationship so scandalous it causes global forex dips💀but also can we reign in the drama because why are you selling your treasury bond because two people fucked 😂😂😂😂😂what is wrong with people?
If delulu were a pair, it'd be these two. Talking about 'Truth will set us free.'. Baby you've been fucking the POPE. Can we be realistic for one second, I beg of you.
But, also...
'Tomorrow we may lose everything we’ve worked for, but we will not lose ourselves.'
Awwwwwww.
Shit hit the fan. Without reservation. PM facing calls to resign, votes of no confidence called, Pope secreted in his rooms, the faithful gathering at St. Peter's Square demanding answers.
Sidenote: halberds are cute and all, but yeeish, how unwieldy. Is the Swiss Guard not allowed to have guns?
Meanwhile, our delulu Pope, when presented with the available ways forward: "I propose a third way forward.”
Rah! A man after God's own heart.
(As always, when I meet MCs with spines of steel, I thought to myself: Where the fuck is that bitch, Shane Hollander. I just want to talk.)
My favorite thing about Marco, aside from his willingness to get down and dirty(with ANTI-CORRUPTION efforts, guys, get your minds out of the gutter, that's a POPE!!!) is that he presented a depiction of a church I could get behind.
Maybe this is confirmation bias for my own theories but this book spoke to me in a way mainstream Abrahamic religions have often failed to. I have never understood preachings of a radical love, a grace that surpasses all we can understand....supposedly, yet the leaders meant to be proponents of this preach hate and we're supposed to be too dumb to know the difference.
I will say that the way Marco understands God's love is the way I used to think of it, long before I was told again and again that it had limits and conditions and eventually came to the realization that if that is genuinely what it is, I wanted nothing to do with it.
FYI. Also addressed in the book, is how many LGBTQ+ people eventually leave the church not because they stopped believing but because if you're told you're unwelcome enough times, eventually you stop knocking.
The things Marco asks for in this book are so reasonable that it baffles the mind how when you contrast them to what most Abrahamic religions posit, this book might as well sit in the high fantasy section.
"..... the door is open. Come home to your brothers and sisters.”
Funny how Christ would probably be deeply ashamed to know that the current church would probably never say such a thing outright and mean it.
I love that he eventually decides that he might as well be hanged for a sheep as for a lamb and says you know what? Yes I've been fucking a man but how about we have a whole conversation on the church's teaching on homosexuality because this right here is not it.
AND while we're here, let's talk about how the celibacy requirement for priests is ridiculous and makes an already hard existence even harder.
AND while I'm here, tell me again why LGBTQ+ people can't get married with pastoral blessings. Raise your hands, anyone, if you can recite the greatest commandment we were given.
AND let's not forget the corruption y'all are in bed with, at least I've only been sleeping with a man. 💀💀💀
Pope Pius 'Burn It All Down' XIV.
Matteo's fight is no less radical. Actually I love that while Marco is answerable to a billion Catholics and tackles the scandal with the heart of a servant leader, Matteo is very much 'Nah, nah, nah, let's talk about that shady AF twelve million dollar donation to your campaign, we're not here to legislate my sex life.'
I love that M&M's love story ended in such a way that I feel there was no compromise. I will always love stories that end this way. Privacy is great whenever it doesn't cross into hiding, whether by necessity or by design.
That said. I have a few complaints.
One.
Why did we get only one papal fuck? And not once did they lift his cassock😩IT WAS RIGHT THERE! AND THEY WERE ALREADY DOING IT SO WHY NOT LIFT IT? I DON'T DESERVE THIS.
Two.
I'd have loved this to indicate the POV per chapter. It's easy to tell after a few sentences whether it's Marco or Matteo, but you throw in Carlos, Captain Lombardi and it's a bit disorienting.
Three.
I did feel like the relationship between M&M progressed too quickly, especially given the stakes. Yes, they have a lot in common and I could feel the sizzling attraction between them but things between them got to be very serious, very fast. I feel like maybe there was a lot more focus on their interactions as anti-corruption advocates than as two men in a budding relationship.
I liked the journey of them fighting for their love but I'd have appreciated a little more of them falling IN love.
Overall, though, I really enjoyed this, and not for the reasons I thought originally. I expected it to be some hard core Sierra Simone-esque smut with desecration of pulpits🙈
Instead, it was a mostly sweet love story of two men in an impossible situation saying 'Fuck it(and fuck you🥵) anyway.
Not to mention a comforting look at what the church could be, if it did what it should instead of being such a hateful little bitch all the time.
Coincidentally, my favorite quote from this may be, “And that many interpretations of scripture reflect the prejudices of their time rather than divine intent.”
Another: "Unity does not require uniformity."
If it weren't for the fact that this is the kind of book I know I won't forget, I'd say it's one I'd reread a million times.
Dick too good he realized the expectation of celibacy for the clergy is inhumane. A violation of basic human rights.
Going to start this off with some caveats.
One.
I went into this knowing I'd love it. You know how you read a blurb and you just KNOW? Religious angst, forbidden love, actual understandable reasons for hiding? Yeah. From the start, I knew this would be my jam. FYI this was an ARC, but I have a lot of superlative thoughts about it that I think it's only fair that I make that clear before getting into it.
Two.
I'm not religious in any conventional understanding of the term. So going in, it was unlikely that I'd find any triggers. I'm sure this will differ from person to person but the title is pretty clear. A Vatican MM romance. It's exactly what you'd expect. If papal fucks are outside your comfort zone then leave this alone.
Three.
I started this with a voracious appetite for scandal but I ended up re-annoyed with the church and Abrahamic religions in general (yes. Again, and still) so bear with me if my review ends up in theological musings that nobody asked for.
Right off the bat I want to say that THIS is the kind of book for which the tag 'forbidden love' is appropriate. Let's stop this tomfoolery of calling brother's best friend romances 'forbidden'.
And can we just talk for a second about the audacity required to proposition a POPE?!
I feel like this is the sort of shot you don't take unless you are 1000% certain. And maybe not even then.
So Matteo has massive balls. Probably around 4 of them.
Matteo and Marco (henceforth to be known as M&M) met once at a state visit and in all honesty, I feel like Marco made it clear in their very first meeting that he was at the very least an ally.
Somehow these two (both pretty much closeted) got onto the topic of homosexuality in their very first meeting and to Matteo's surprise, Marco seemed very tolerant and non-judgemental.
Oh, FYI....
Marco = Pope
Matteo = Italian PM
Next thing we know, Matteo is very willing to share and involve Marco in his corruption investigations that encompass church funding for illegal activities through and for politicians, although before they met, Matteo had thought Marco would be a stumbling block and try to shield 'untouchable Vatican accounts' like many around him.
All of a sudden these two are crushing hard on each other and finding reasons why they need to meet constantly to 'liaise and coordinate anti-corruption efforts' and set up a 'secure private channel of communication' between the two of them.
Uh huh. Because we were born yesterday.💀
Honestly these two were so obvious at the start(and honestly throughout, but more on that later).
It got to a point where Sister Lucia was setting up private meetings for them in the Vatican library and announcing how the cameras would 'mysteriously malfunction' during their two hour visits. Lololol. Not to mention reassuring the Pope that she's seen how lonely his job can be and she doesn't judge him for 'taking his comforts where he can find them'.
😂😂😂😂😏Never seen two people with less regard for their secrecy. And these two had more reason than the ordinary person to keep things hidden.
But nooooo, they simply couldn't help themselves. Matteo was out here sending papal booty calls like Marco was just Eddy from the gym.
'Need to see you. Not official business. Secure location. Tonight?'
💀💀💀💀
Honestly, I'm surprised cardinals did not keep happening upon them. The whole time, I thought their undoing would be them caught in flagrante delicto somewhere on holy land.
And we KNOW a cassock provides very easy access, so.
Anyway, they are up and at it. Whole time, they're uncovering corruption in both their organizations and dealing with death threats.
The funniest bit was the PM walking around with lube during an active assassination attempt? Does he just have lube on him at all times in case he runs into the pope?
Either way, this is probably the kind of 360° thinking that got him very far in politics so both Marco and I appreciated it.
And yay! A papal fuck happened. At that point I was sure that at the very least, this would be what cemented my place in hell because wanting very badly for the pope to get it(hard) was my primary concern in life.
No condoms, too, but I'm guessing when you fuck the pope, you're banking on divine protection from STDs.
Some things required special suspension of disbelief....
So these two were left unsupervised in an underground bunker and when their security details returned they couldn't smell the unholiness that had occurred? Hah!
Has to have been some god-tier ventilation in that bunker.
ANYWAY.......The entire reason I read this (Exposure! Scandalo! Hear ye! Hear ye!) finally happened and it was all the deliciousness I wanted.
Imagine being in a relationship so scandalous it causes global forex dips💀but also can we reign in the drama because why are you selling your treasury bond because two people fucked 😂😂😂😂😂what is wrong with people?
If delulu were a pair, it'd be these two. Talking about 'Truth will set us free.'. Baby you've been fucking the POPE. Can we be realistic for one second, I beg of you.
But, also...
'Tomorrow we may lose everything we’ve worked for, but we will not lose ourselves.'
Awwwwwww.
Shit hit the fan. Without reservation. PM facing calls to resign, votes of no confidence called, Pope secreted in his rooms, the faithful gathering at St. Peter's Square demanding answers.
Sidenote: halberds are cute and all, but yeeish, how unwieldy. Is the Swiss Guard not allowed to have guns?
Meanwhile, our delulu Pope, when presented with the available ways forward: "I propose a third way forward.”
Rah! A man after God's own heart.
(As always, when I meet MCs with spines of steel, I thought to myself: Where the fuck is that bitch, Shane Hollander. I just want to talk.)
My favorite thing about Marco, aside from his willingness to get down and dirty(with ANTI-CORRUPTION efforts, guys, get your minds out of the gutter, that's a POPE!!!) is that he presented a depiction of a church I could get behind.
Maybe this is confirmation bias for my own theories but this book spoke to me in a way mainstream Abrahamic religions have often failed to. I have never understood preachings of a radical love, a grace that surpasses all we can understand....supposedly, yet the leaders meant to be proponents of this preach hate and we're supposed to be too dumb to know the difference.
I will say that the way Marco understands God's love is the way I used to think of it, long before I was told again and again that it had limits and conditions and eventually came to the realization that if that is genuinely what it is, I wanted nothing to do with it.
FYI. Also addressed in the book, is how many LGBTQ+ people eventually leave the church not because they stopped believing but because if you're told you're unwelcome enough times, eventually you stop knocking.
The things Marco asks for in this book are so reasonable that it baffles the mind how when you contrast them to what most Abrahamic religions posit, this book might as well sit in the high fantasy section.
"..... the door is open. Come home to your brothers and sisters.”
Funny how Christ would probably be deeply ashamed to know that the current church would probably never say such a thing outright and mean it.
I love that he eventually decides that he might as well be hanged for a sheep as for a lamb and says you know what? Yes I've been fucking a man but how about we have a whole conversation on the church's teaching on homosexuality because this right here is not it.
AND while we're here, let's talk about how the celibacy requirement for priests is ridiculous and makes an already hard existence even harder.
AND while I'm here, tell me again why LGBTQ+ people can't get married with pastoral blessings. Raise your hands, anyone, if you can recite the greatest commandment we were given.
AND let's not forget the corruption y'all are in bed with, at least I've only been sleeping with a man. 💀💀💀
Pope Pius 'Burn It All Down' XIV.
Matteo's fight is no less radical. Actually I love that while Marco is answerable to a billion Catholics and tackles the scandal with the heart of a servant leader, Matteo is very much 'Nah, nah, nah, let's talk about that shady AF twelve million dollar donation to your campaign, we're not here to legislate my sex life.'
I love that M&M's love story ended in such a way that I feel there was no compromise. I will always love stories that end this way. Privacy is great whenever it doesn't cross into hiding, whether by necessity or by design.
That said. I have a few complaints.
One.
Why did we get only one papal fuck? And not once did they lift his cassock😩IT WAS RIGHT THERE! AND THEY WERE ALREADY DOING IT SO WHY NOT LIFT IT? I DON'T DESERVE THIS.
Two.
I'd have loved this to indicate the POV per chapter. It's easy to tell after a few sentences whether it's Marco or Matteo, but you throw in Carlos, Captain Lombardi and it's a bit disorienting.
Three.
I did feel like the relationship between M&M progressed too quickly, especially given the stakes. Yes, they have a lot in common and I could feel the sizzling attraction between them but things between them got to be very serious, very fast. I feel like maybe there was a lot more focus on their interactions as anti-corruption advocates than as two men in a budding relationship.
I liked the journey of them fighting for their love but I'd have appreciated a little more of them falling IN love.
Overall, though, I really enjoyed this, and not for the reasons I thought originally. I expected it to be some hard core Sierra Simone-esque smut with desecration of pulpits🙈
Instead, it was a mostly sweet love story of two men in an impossible situation saying 'Fuck it(and fuck you🥵) anyway.
Not to mention a comforting look at what the church could be, if it did what it should instead of being such a hateful little bitch all the time.
Coincidentally, my favorite quote from this may be, “And that many interpretations of scripture reflect the prejudices of their time rather than divine intent.”
Another: "Unity does not require uniformity."
If it weren't for the fact that this is the kind of book I know I won't forget, I'd say it's one I'd reread a million times.
November 2, 2025
Rating - 5 stars
I absolutely DEVOURED this one! It was peak forbidden romance. I read it in one setting and the chemistry and the build up between the characters? *chef's kiss* It was so good! I loved the relationship between Matteo and Marco. Honestly, should've read sooner. I don't even usually like contemporary romance that isn't fantasy or romcom or something that isn't normal. But I adored the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely DEVOURED this one! It was peak forbidden romance. I read it in one setting and the chemistry and the build up between the characters? *chef's kiss* It was so good! I loved the relationship between Matteo and Marco. Honestly, should've read sooner. I don't even usually like contemporary romance that isn't fantasy or romcom or something that isn't normal. But I adored the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 13, 2025
3.5 stars
I enjoyed a good portion of this book but it was slowly weighed down by speeches and religious thoughts and ideologies that eclipsed the romance. I was hoping for more of a story between Marco and Matteo but we only have the chance to see them together a handful of times. I feel like the story truly focused mainly on the Catholic Church accepting LGBTQ+ people, which is a wonderful idea. I just think that the story was drawn out.
In a perfect world the Catholic Church would be more open minded but I feel very cynical at this time with the hatred that is being thrown at not just the LGBTQ+ community but other races and religions. The religious aspect of this story overtook everything else and that hindered my enjoyment. I wouldn’t even consider this a romance since the story didn’t focus on the developing relationship. These men spend more time apart than together. How do they fall in love after only knowing each other such a short time? It didn’t add up and I need more in a romance story.
I received an ARC for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
I enjoyed a good portion of this book but it was slowly weighed down by speeches and religious thoughts and ideologies that eclipsed the romance. I was hoping for more of a story between Marco and Matteo but we only have the chance to see them together a handful of times. I feel like the story truly focused mainly on the Catholic Church accepting LGBTQ+ people, which is a wonderful idea. I just think that the story was drawn out.
In a perfect world the Catholic Church would be more open minded but I feel very cynical at this time with the hatred that is being thrown at not just the LGBTQ+ community but other races and religions. The religious aspect of this story overtook everything else and that hindered my enjoyment. I wouldn’t even consider this a romance since the story didn’t focus on the developing relationship. These men spend more time apart than together. How do they fall in love after only knowing each other such a short time? It didn’t add up and I need more in a romance story.
I received an ARC for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
June 28, 2025
I love this story about the young pope and the young Italian prime minister. Of course, suspend belief and just get lost in it. The religion part is a dream for this girl who was raised in hypocritical Catholicism. It’s not full of romance (there are only two sexy times in the book but they’re pretty damn romantic and sexy 😉). I loved the almost instaness of their attraction - love that trope. It’s not a book I’d typically pick up (i don’t enjoy books with a lot of religion in them and I shy away from mysteries, too) but I read Evelyn’s review and couldn’t resist. And I’m so glad I didn’t. I’ve added a couple of other books by this new to me author and I’d definitely recommend reading this book.
June 8, 2025
It's not easy to find a well-written book that also tackles a very difficult subject without being insulting, but the author here has nailed it. This book follows the idea of a Pope who comes into power young and is homosexual. He eventually has feelings for the Prime Minister and they need to work out how to deal with that.
It would have been so easy for the author to rail against Catholicism and some of the opinions held by *some* churches, but instead, the author created a space with characters who held a variety of different opinions.
I'm not religious, but the idea that some people in the Catholic Church might actually want to see change around topics like sexuality gives me some hope for the future. I think anyone who is religious and is questioning their sexuality and place in the Church should read this book. It lets you know that you're not alone, and even though one Church leader might tell you something that leaves you feeling alone or sad, another will be there to lift you up and do the right thing.
The mystery around the politicians and church with the missing funds was also really interesting. I found myself growing frustrated by the way they were able to twist and turn so many things to their benefit. I wanted to grab the book and yell at them to just be honest and do the right thing! It's so funny how people in power, regardless of how they got there (religion, politics etc.) all suffer from abusing it.
Altogether, my one word to sum up this book is: Brave.
I think this might be one of my top reads for 2025.
It would have been so easy for the author to rail against Catholicism and some of the opinions held by *some* churches, but instead, the author created a space with characters who held a variety of different opinions.
I'm not religious, but the idea that some people in the Catholic Church might actually want to see change around topics like sexuality gives me some hope for the future. I think anyone who is religious and is questioning their sexuality and place in the Church should read this book. It lets you know that you're not alone, and even though one Church leader might tell you something that leaves you feeling alone or sad, another will be there to lift you up and do the right thing.
The mystery around the politicians and church with the missing funds was also really interesting. I found myself growing frustrated by the way they were able to twist and turn so many things to their benefit. I wanted to grab the book and yell at them to just be honest and do the right thing! It's so funny how people in power, regardless of how they got there (religion, politics etc.) all suffer from abusing it.
Altogether, my one word to sum up this book is: Brave.
I think this might be one of my top reads for 2025.
Want to read
June 29, 2025bitches will watch conclave ONCE & then do this (it's me i'm bitches)
July 31, 2025
“The youngest Pope in centuries happens to look like a Renaissance painting of a sexy twink come to life, and you’ve been staring into space since meeting him.”
This is possibly the most surreal book i've ever read. this wasn't anything like i was expecting, for good and for bad, lol. i was expecting something like Priest by Sierra Simone (which i still haven't read), and got something entirely different instead, but something pretty genuine.
the research behind this was refreshing and the elements of a political thriller were there, which made the reading experience so much better, but, the resolutions were a bit too easy to be satisfying, to be honest.
still, this explored faith and politics in an interesting way i have read very little of in my time. when you've read as much as i've had in the last few years, it's a treat to read new things.
all things considered, saying a book resolved itself a bit too conveniently is hardly criticism in my book. this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and i'll likely look for more things by the author.
May 24, 2025
This was a gobsmaker and a mind bender. Not for the "priestly love" , but for the corruption behind the scenes in the church!!! When Marco and Matteo discover the hidden secrets and corruption , the church does everything to side track and isolate the pope to keep things hidden. Will they be suppressed in their love and their fight against corruption within? I found it refreshing and heartwarming. The changes at the end would be remarkable, if accepted.
It was more profound to see the changes (for the good) that came out of the story and all the allies that steppedup. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
It was more profound to see the changes (for the good) that came out of the story and all the allies that steppedup. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
June 6, 2025
I was graciously gifted a copy of this book by the author, the review is my own and given without bias.
When the new young Pope meets the new young PM of Italy, sparks fly (and bullets) in this new Romance/Mystery from C.G Macington.
Marco, the youngest pope in centuries sits upon Peters Throne. He is a mix of tradition and progressivism. He is elected to bridge the gap between the old and the new.
Matteo, the idealistic new Prime Minister, visits the Vatican on a state visit after an assassination attempt.
Powerful figures are at work in both the Italian Government and the Halls of the Vatican. Matteo and Marco realize that corruption reaches deep into both of their worlds. As they work together to unlock the secrets, they realize that they share more than a want to see truth and honesty prevail.
A forbidden romance blooms and with it come a crisis of conscience.
Y'all.
This was a wild ride.
Marco and Matteo are so good together. If you're looking for a mystery, this is it. The corruption, and papal intrigue. The way the Curia (Vatican governing body) manipulated and controlled the new Pope. How many of these Cardinals forgot their oath to God altogether. The mystery side of this book was top notch.
The Romance side was so achingly beautiful. Marco struggles (rightfully so he is the Pope after all) with the realization that he is falling for Matteo. This crosses the standard 'coming out' trope by miles. He not only has to come to terms with his suppressed identity, but the faith and tradition of a Billion Catholics that look to him for spiritual leadership. How can he bring the Church into a better understanding of human love in all it's forms? Can he push the church further than it's ever gone before while still keeping the traditions that have given the faithful peace?
This book will not be for everyone. The religious subject matter can be a lot, especially if you are practicing. Take care when choosing. All in all this is a phenomenal book. Its a kin to Dan Brown or Tal Bauer. My only notes would be that we didn't get enough Matteo. I can understand why, as the bulk of the story happens with the Vatican walls. But more Matteo would have been nice. All in all I whole heartedly recommend this book. This is the second CG Macington book I've read and they are consistently fantastic.
When the new young Pope meets the new young PM of Italy, sparks fly (and bullets) in this new Romance/Mystery from C.G Macington.
Marco, the youngest pope in centuries sits upon Peters Throne. He is a mix of tradition and progressivism. He is elected to bridge the gap between the old and the new.
Matteo, the idealistic new Prime Minister, visits the Vatican on a state visit after an assassination attempt.
Powerful figures are at work in both the Italian Government and the Halls of the Vatican. Matteo and Marco realize that corruption reaches deep into both of their worlds. As they work together to unlock the secrets, they realize that they share more than a want to see truth and honesty prevail.
A forbidden romance blooms and with it come a crisis of conscience.
Y'all.
This was a wild ride.
Marco and Matteo are so good together. If you're looking for a mystery, this is it. The corruption, and papal intrigue. The way the Curia (Vatican governing body) manipulated and controlled the new Pope. How many of these Cardinals forgot their oath to God altogether. The mystery side of this book was top notch.
The Romance side was so achingly beautiful. Marco struggles (rightfully so he is the Pope after all) with the realization that he is falling for Matteo. This crosses the standard 'coming out' trope by miles. He not only has to come to terms with his suppressed identity, but the faith and tradition of a Billion Catholics that look to him for spiritual leadership. How can he bring the Church into a better understanding of human love in all it's forms? Can he push the church further than it's ever gone before while still keeping the traditions that have given the faithful peace?
This book will not be for everyone. The religious subject matter can be a lot, especially if you are practicing. Take care when choosing. All in all this is a phenomenal book. Its a kin to Dan Brown or Tal Bauer. My only notes would be that we didn't get enough Matteo. I can understand why, as the bulk of the story happens with the Vatican walls. But more Matteo would have been nice. All in all I whole heartedly recommend this book. This is the second CG Macington book I've read and they are consistently fantastic.
May 24, 2025
Dan Brown, eat your heart out. (Mainly because you stink at romance...this one’s way better.)
Note: I don't follow a religion, and if this subject matter would be offensive to you, skip it. It definitely goes there, this is forbidden/taboo stuff.
I enjoyed this read a lot! This is...I can hardly believe I’m writing it (and I read a lot of taboo romance books)...a romance between a newly chosen Pope (MC Marco, aka Pope Pius) and the prime minister of Italy (MC Matteo—and yes, having two Italian heroes whose names both start with “Ma” is certainly a...choice. My eyes are still pissed off).
The read is almost preternaturally timely in its premise and its depiction of how people can be manipulated to focus on outdated and harmful backward moral stances rather than on the abuse of power and legit harm done to fellow humans through corruption, greed, and violence. The idealism is tooth-achingly painful for its on-the-nose callout of pretty much anyone who wastes energy and resources worrying about something as harmless and joyful as who people love rather than fixing legitimate problems and making the world a safer, better place for everyone.
But it’s really a romance! Want proof?
“...Matteo listens intently as I share my vision—a Church that embraces all forms of authentic love as expressions of the divine, that recognizes the sacred in human connection regardless of gender or orientation.
‘It’s revolutionary,’ he says softly.
‘It’s returning to the essence,’ I counter. ‘Before centuries of human interpretation buried the simple truth that love—all love—comes from God.’”
Want more? Here’s MC prime minister of Italy Matteo’s sister, calling him out for...
“‘You’re sleeping with the Pope?!’
‘Sophia please—’ Matteo starts.
‘The POPE, Matteo!’ She throws her hands up. ‘When I told you to find someone, I was thinking maybe a nice lawyer or that economist from the finance ministry. Not the SPIRITUAL LEADER OF A BILLION CATHOLICS!’”
HA HA HA HA yes, if you aren’t one to worry about blasphemy and such, this book is wildly entertaining and hopeful. It’s the epitome of forbidden romance wrapped in romantic suspense and cradled in the fragile hope that if only someone (or, in this case, sometwo...) in the right place cared enough and had power enough to invoke change, given the chance, people can and will do better. And yes...there are Vatican sexytimes. I kid you not.
So, heartbreakingly unlikely, yes, but, earnest and sincere and very much kept me flipping pages and hoping these two dedicated souls would get the HEA they deserved.
Well...they did! If only I could have this kind of faith in the real world. Sob.
Facing career annihilation, assassination attempts, and personal crises, Marco and Matteo somehow wade through the shit that is the antagonists and archaic beliefs around them and gather remarkable allies to find a way to not only expose massive corruption in government and the Church, but dare to find love and support and a champion in each other. Want to know more? Read it. It’s a lot of fun. Dan Brown lite, and with WAY better romance.
And the winner of best wing-nun is...dun dun dun...Sister Lucia! Way to show the power of an intelligent woman who’s consistently underestimated. And major shout out to all the secondary characters whose moral codes proved worthy of the situations they faced and the two men they made the choice to support without question. They're also all proof that Marco and Matteo have zero chill and couldn't hide their relationship if they tried, because EVERYONE who was consistently near them figured them out in like a minute.
What was missing? Well..I really didn’t get to know Matteo well. We meet his sister, and see the way his staff rally around him and support him, but, who is this guy, personally? He’s got to be more than Italy. We barely see his residence, and nothing of what he surrounds himself with. Parents? Interests? Music? Anything? I know he’s a good guy, but I didn’t get to know HIM. Marco is better defined, though that was easier because he is immersed in the faith he represents and has embraced it for most of his life, and we learn about his origins. But nothing about Matteo’s background and personal side stood out at all, beyond his sincere dedication to eradicating corruption in the Italian government. A bit of a miss there. Or I missed it? Always possible.
This book also leans into insta-love, but, the couple is surrounded by so much intrigue, danger, and drama that I forgave that. When they are on page together, they have chemistry and compatibility, much as I would have enjoyed more on-page showing of them getting to know each other rather than being told they continue to talk on the phone and meet.
Also, the random 3rd and 4th additional points of view were just... why? One was trite and 2-D, and the other was...I don't know, just didn't feel needed. Plus...if you're going to do that, maybe name the character at the top of the chapter/scene.
Anyway, I still enjoyed the heck out of the story.
Yes...believe it or not, the bad guys get got!
HEA. I know, I know, I could barely believe it either. Forbidden romance. Romantic suspense. Political intrigue. Religious enlightenment. It’s all here, and TOTALLY safe for me. No info at all on Matteo’s past affairs, and the Pope is completely inexperienced in carnal anything. AKA, zero OM drama or action, just these two all the way. This is one of the most idealized into fairy-tale (Disney, not the Brothers Grimm!) level outcomes I’ve seen, but somehow, it...worked. Recommended.
My thanks to BookSirens for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Note: I don't follow a religion, and if this subject matter would be offensive to you, skip it. It definitely goes there, this is forbidden/taboo stuff.
I enjoyed this read a lot! This is...I can hardly believe I’m writing it (and I read a lot of taboo romance books)...a romance between a newly chosen Pope (MC Marco, aka Pope Pius) and the prime minister of Italy (MC Matteo—and yes, having two Italian heroes whose names both start with “Ma” is certainly a...choice. My eyes are still pissed off).
The read is almost preternaturally timely in its premise and its depiction of how people can be manipulated to focus on outdated and harmful backward moral stances rather than on the abuse of power and legit harm done to fellow humans through corruption, greed, and violence. The idealism is tooth-achingly painful for its on-the-nose callout of pretty much anyone who wastes energy and resources worrying about something as harmless and joyful as who people love rather than fixing legitimate problems and making the world a safer, better place for everyone.
But it’s really a romance! Want proof?
“...Matteo listens intently as I share my vision—a Church that embraces all forms of authentic love as expressions of the divine, that recognizes the sacred in human connection regardless of gender or orientation.
‘It’s revolutionary,’ he says softly.
‘It’s returning to the essence,’ I counter. ‘Before centuries of human interpretation buried the simple truth that love—all love—comes from God.’”
Want more? Here’s MC prime minister of Italy Matteo’s sister, calling him out for...
“‘You’re sleeping with the Pope?!’
‘Sophia please—’ Matteo starts.
‘The POPE, Matteo!’ She throws her hands up. ‘When I told you to find someone, I was thinking maybe a nice lawyer or that economist from the finance ministry. Not the SPIRITUAL LEADER OF A BILLION CATHOLICS!’”
HA HA HA HA yes, if you aren’t one to worry about blasphemy and such, this book is wildly entertaining and hopeful. It’s the epitome of forbidden romance wrapped in romantic suspense and cradled in the fragile hope that if only someone (or, in this case, sometwo...) in the right place cared enough and had power enough to invoke change, given the chance, people can and will do better. And yes...there are Vatican sexytimes. I kid you not.
So, heartbreakingly unlikely, yes, but, earnest and sincere and very much kept me flipping pages and hoping these two dedicated souls would get the HEA they deserved.
Well...they did! If only I could have this kind of faith in the real world. Sob.
Facing career annihilation, assassination attempts, and personal crises, Marco and Matteo somehow wade through the shit that is the antagonists and archaic beliefs around them and gather remarkable allies to find a way to not only expose massive corruption in government and the Church, but dare to find love and support and a champion in each other. Want to know more? Read it. It’s a lot of fun. Dan Brown lite, and with WAY better romance.
And the winner of best wing-nun is...dun dun dun...Sister Lucia! Way to show the power of an intelligent woman who’s consistently underestimated. And major shout out to all the secondary characters whose moral codes proved worthy of the situations they faced and the two men they made the choice to support without question. They're also all proof that Marco and Matteo have zero chill and couldn't hide their relationship if they tried, because EVERYONE who was consistently near them figured them out in like a minute.
What was missing? Well..I really didn’t get to know Matteo well. We meet his sister, and see the way his staff rally around him and support him, but, who is this guy, personally? He’s got to be more than Italy. We barely see his residence, and nothing of what he surrounds himself with. Parents? Interests? Music? Anything? I know he’s a good guy, but I didn’t get to know HIM. Marco is better defined, though that was easier because he is immersed in the faith he represents and has embraced it for most of his life, and we learn about his origins. But nothing about Matteo’s background and personal side stood out at all, beyond his sincere dedication to eradicating corruption in the Italian government. A bit of a miss there. Or I missed it? Always possible.
This book also leans into insta-love, but, the couple is surrounded by so much intrigue, danger, and drama that I forgave that. When they are on page together, they have chemistry and compatibility, much as I would have enjoyed more on-page showing of them getting to know each other rather than being told they continue to talk on the phone and meet.
Also, the random 3rd and 4th additional points of view were just... why? One was trite and 2-D, and the other was...I don't know, just didn't feel needed. Plus...if you're going to do that, maybe name the character at the top of the chapter/scene.
Anyway, I still enjoyed the heck out of the story.
Yes...believe it or not, the bad guys get got!
HEA. I know, I know, I could barely believe it either. Forbidden romance. Romantic suspense. Political intrigue. Religious enlightenment. It’s all here, and TOTALLY safe for me. No info at all on Matteo’s past affairs, and the Pope is completely inexperienced in carnal anything. AKA, zero OM drama or action, just these two all the way. This is one of the most idealized into fairy-tale (Disney, not the Brothers Grimm!) level outcomes I’ve seen, but somehow, it...worked. Recommended.
My thanks to BookSirens for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
June 28, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up.
There's a quote in the book itself that refers to “The Pope and the Prime Minister. It sounds like the title of a controversial harlequin romance.”
That was my initial reaction reading the blurb for this book in the days when the world waited to hear who the new Pope would be. This book was more engrossing, well written and plausible than that brief description.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is not - as far as I know - any connection between Pope Leo XIV and the fictional Pope in these pages. That said, both the politics at the Vatican and the politics in the Italian Parliament, and layers of financial corruption within both, ring true. I remember when Silvio Berlusconi was Prime Minister and how potential advantage of connections always seemed to be a real thing. His convictions for financial dealings didn't stop his ambitions. The setting also echoes the realistic film Conclave about the ascension of a new Pope.
This book is well paced and engages the attention, switching from Marco to Matteo and back, telling their stories. The supporting cast of characters are well sketched out including those colleagues and staff. who are loyal and those who are double dealing for personal or political gain. They may be somewhat simplistic but they hold up the story well enough.
Other than people who would prefer to avoid descriptions of two men enjoying physical intimacies with each other, this book could be easily enjoyed by almost anyone interested in the tensions between the religious world and the modern complexities of real people whose loves or being don't fit more recent or conservative views. As a liberal and only mildly religious person who enjoys MM romances and political thrillers, I recommend this book for enjoyable escapism. I also recommend recent news from the Vatican with many inclusive human centered quotes from the new pope. He doesn't go as far as this book but maybe some day the Church will.
There's a quote in the book itself that refers to “The Pope and the Prime Minister. It sounds like the title of a controversial harlequin romance.”
That was my initial reaction reading the blurb for this book in the days when the world waited to hear who the new Pope would be. This book was more engrossing, well written and plausible than that brief description.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is not - as far as I know - any connection between Pope Leo XIV and the fictional Pope in these pages. That said, both the politics at the Vatican and the politics in the Italian Parliament, and layers of financial corruption within both, ring true. I remember when Silvio Berlusconi was Prime Minister and how potential advantage of connections always seemed to be a real thing. His convictions for financial dealings didn't stop his ambitions. The setting also echoes the realistic film Conclave about the ascension of a new Pope.
This book is well paced and engages the attention, switching from Marco to Matteo and back, telling their stories. The supporting cast of characters are well sketched out including those colleagues and staff. who are loyal and those who are double dealing for personal or political gain. They may be somewhat simplistic but they hold up the story well enough.
Other than people who would prefer to avoid descriptions of two men enjoying physical intimacies with each other, this book could be easily enjoyed by almost anyone interested in the tensions between the religious world and the modern complexities of real people whose loves or being don't fit more recent or conservative views. As a liberal and only mildly religious person who enjoys MM romances and political thrillers, I recommend this book for enjoyable escapism. I also recommend recent news from the Vatican with many inclusive human centered quotes from the new pope. He doesn't go as far as this book but maybe some day the Church will.
June 15, 2025
4* Yes, it requires suspension of disbelief but it's well researched and written. But, ugh, having 2 leads with names starting with M made for quite confusing times.
This book was far better than expected, although I wish the editor had convinced the author to change one of the characters' names, because it took at least a page at times for me to figure out whose POV I was reading.
The tale starts in improbability and gallops with it, but I was intrigued enough to learn what the author would or could do with the tale that I was prepared to go with the flow. I liked learning more about the Vatican and its rules and intrigues. Was the author brave to go there with the corruption and love of money more than love of God, from his servants on earth? Yup.
I'm not sure that the virgin pope could've embraced gay sex the way he did thr very first time. Which makes me think that CGM might be a woman. It just seemed too twee, too easy, too quick and not messy enough. Not prepped enough. For a gay bloke to have written this.
Team M&M were great. A halbadier; a cardinal; a nun; allies in parts of the world where being gay means death, and a sister who's perfectly placed to run interference.
I'm not sure I believed in the guys as a couple, or how they could be together and it not be seen as a sin in Catholicism. I'm not sure I saw/felt/believed in a passion between them, but the tale worked. It felt intelligent with the arguments, the intrigues, the alliances of church and politics for a common goal. Just not the leads. It didn't have the coup de foudre that this tale needed- the cliché of 'across a crowded room' would've worked very well here. But I liked learning more about the Catholic church and the evolution of religion, and man's flaws in interpreting and spreading the word of God.
ARC courtesy of BookSirens for my reading pleasure.
This book was far better than expected, although I wish the editor had convinced the author to change one of the characters' names, because it took at least a page at times for me to figure out whose POV I was reading.
The tale starts in improbability and gallops with it, but I was intrigued enough to learn what the author would or could do with the tale that I was prepared to go with the flow. I liked learning more about the Vatican and its rules and intrigues. Was the author brave to go there with the corruption and love of money more than love of God, from his servants on earth? Yup.
I'm not sure that the virgin pope could've embraced gay sex the way he did thr very first time. Which makes me think that CGM might be a woman. It just seemed too twee, too easy, too quick and not messy enough. Not prepped enough. For a gay bloke to have written this.
Team M&M were great. A halbadier; a cardinal; a nun; allies in parts of the world where being gay means death, and a sister who's perfectly placed to run interference.
I'm not sure I believed in the guys as a couple, or how they could be together and it not be seen as a sin in Catholicism. I'm not sure I saw/felt/believed in a passion between them, but the tale worked. It felt intelligent with the arguments, the intrigues, the alliances of church and politics for a common goal. Just not the leads. It didn't have the coup de foudre that this tale needed- the cliché of 'across a crowded room' would've worked very well here. But I liked learning more about the Catholic church and the evolution of religion, and man's flaws in interpreting and spreading the word of God.
ARC courtesy of BookSirens for my reading pleasure.
May 25, 2025
Loved this book 😍. It is such a beautiful story.
I highlighted a part of the book that made me giggle because it summarized the book so well. I knew I had to add the quote to my review.
**“The Pope and the Prime Minister. It sounds like the title of a controversial harlequin romance.” “Or a political thriller,” Matteo adds, returning to the kitchen now wearing a simple t-shirt, his firm muscular chest still visible through the thin cotton fabric. He sits beside me, our shoulders touching. “One with assassination attempts, Vatican conspiracies, and corrupt cardinals.”**
The Pope, Marco, and the Prime Minister, Matteo, are both new to their positions. The Prime Minister is working on truly "draining the swamp" and starts an investigation into corruption within the government. When it is brought to his attention that a large part of the corruption is linked to Vatican accounts, he requests a meeting with the Pope. Their chemistry was instant. The Pope and a few of his most trusted started investigating on the Church end. They are both threatened and face opposition from others. It is a huge battle.
Along the way, Matteo and Marco have several private meetings to share findings. Each meeting, they grow closer and things get hotter 🔥.
People start to notice, including the wrong people. The corrupt people find out and try to use their relationship to discredit them in an effort to have them removed from their positions and stop the investigations.
I truly wish our leaders were more like Marco and Matteo 😥.
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**I received an ARC**
I highlighted a part of the book that made me giggle because it summarized the book so well. I knew I had to add the quote to my review.
**“The Pope and the Prime Minister. It sounds like the title of a controversial harlequin romance.” “Or a political thriller,” Matteo adds, returning to the kitchen now wearing a simple t-shirt, his firm muscular chest still visible through the thin cotton fabric. He sits beside me, our shoulders touching. “One with assassination attempts, Vatican conspiracies, and corrupt cardinals.”**
The Pope, Marco, and the Prime Minister, Matteo, are both new to their positions. The Prime Minister is working on truly "draining the swamp" and starts an investigation into corruption within the government. When it is brought to his attention that a large part of the corruption is linked to Vatican accounts, he requests a meeting with the Pope. Their chemistry was instant. The Pope and a few of his most trusted started investigating on the Church end. They are both threatened and face opposition from others. It is a huge battle.
Along the way, Matteo and Marco have several private meetings to share findings. Each meeting, they grow closer and things get hotter 🔥.
People start to notice, including the wrong people. The corrupt people find out and try to use their relationship to discredit them in an effort to have them removed from their positions and stop the investigations.
I truly wish our leaders were more like Marco and Matteo 😥.
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**I received an ARC**
August 1, 2025
I’ve long admired C. G. Macington’s bold storytelling voice, so when I saw that Sacred Hearts centered around a romance between the Pope (Marco) and the Italian Prime Minister (Matteo), I was both intrigued and cautious. The premise was undeniably controversial—touching on religion, politics, and power—but what caught me off guard wasn't the concept of a gay Pope, but rather the Pope's age. Thirty felt far too young for someone to hold such an esteemed position plausibly, and this detail often broke my immersion in the narrative.
Still, once I accepted the premise, I was hooked.
The political thriller elements are absolutely on point. Corruption, assassination plots, blackmail, Vatican intrigue, and the audacious unraveling of religious dogmas—Macington pulls no punches.
The Vatican Bank as a hub of money laundering? Chef’s kiss.
I adored the gritty, cynical lens on power and the institutional rot that runs deeper than doctrine.
What felt a little off to me was how carelessly both protagonists treated their supposed reforms. Their recklessness didn’t align with their positions of power, and at times, their relationship lacked the calculated caution I’d expect from men in such roles.
That said, the story is gutsy, provocative, and thrilling. It's not a comfort read—but it's a compelling one, with high-stakes drama and dark undercurrents that make it hard to put down.
Highly recommended if you love political thrillers that aren’t afraid to challenge norms.
Still, once I accepted the premise, I was hooked.
The political thriller elements are absolutely on point. Corruption, assassination plots, blackmail, Vatican intrigue, and the audacious unraveling of religious dogmas—Macington pulls no punches.
The Vatican Bank as a hub of money laundering? Chef’s kiss.
I adored the gritty, cynical lens on power and the institutional rot that runs deeper than doctrine.
What felt a little off to me was how carelessly both protagonists treated their supposed reforms. Their recklessness didn’t align with their positions of power, and at times, their relationship lacked the calculated caution I’d expect from men in such roles.
That said, the story is gutsy, provocative, and thrilling. It's not a comfort read—but it's a compelling one, with high-stakes drama and dark undercurrents that make it hard to put down.
Highly recommended if you love political thrillers that aren’t afraid to challenge norms.
October 21, 2025
This book isn't for anyone just looking for some smut with an interesting storyline. Sacred Hearts was far more complex than I imagined it would be, and I'm not mad about it! The young Pope in the Vatican and the Prime Minister of Italy find themselves immediately attracted to each other (though Marco tries to deny it, being the freaking Pope)...and also bound together in their common goal of exposing and dismantling corruption within and between the Italian Government, the Catholic church and Italian mafia.
When both men make enemies on both the inside and outside, their lives become entwined further by the need to protect themselves, continue working towards their goal, and, yes...hiding their affair. There is some lightness, however, in the revelation that not everyone in the church believes love between two people is "right" in only one way, and that while surrounded by enemies, Marco (the Pope) found support within the vatican by those who knew, or suspected the relationship between Marco and Matteo.
This wasn't a light read, and while it IS a romance, it reads more like a Tal Bauer novel---definitely plot driven with a deep, somewhat complicated storyline of corruption that we all know is a reality within government and religious institutions: Powerful men and the corruption that surrounds them.
My only real complaint, is that the story did drag a bit in a few spots.
When both men make enemies on both the inside and outside, their lives become entwined further by the need to protect themselves, continue working towards their goal, and, yes...hiding their affair. There is some lightness, however, in the revelation that not everyone in the church believes love between two people is "right" in only one way, and that while surrounded by enemies, Marco (the Pope) found support within the vatican by those who knew, or suspected the relationship between Marco and Matteo.
This wasn't a light read, and while it IS a romance, it reads more like a Tal Bauer novel---definitely plot driven with a deep, somewhat complicated storyline of corruption that we all know is a reality within government and religious institutions: Powerful men and the corruption that surrounds them.
My only real complaint, is that the story did drag a bit in a few spots.
June 6, 2025
There's a line inside that one character says: "... it sounds like a controversial romance... or a political thriller, one with assassination attempts, Vatican conspiracies and currupt cardinals", and that's basically the very best description of this book.
So, I must confess I thought this was going to be a very spicy smutty book, but I was completely wrong.
Althought of course it has sex scenes, this is a forbbiden romance between two men, but not any men but the Italian Prime Minister and the freaking POPE!!!
Bothe PM and Pope start an anti-corruption investigation that involves both Government and Vatican that makes this two individuals developed -of course- a lot of threats and assassination attemps, while the lovebirds start getting feelings for each other.
Now, on the controversial side, this is the freaking Pope we're talking about!!!.. having a relationship with another public powerful man. And as much as I really enjoyed reading a good controversial drama, it also made me picture how wonderful would it be to have such a traditional Church adappting their beliefs and tolerance to love in all its forms.
This were my favorite quotes:
"I believe that God's love is broader than human understanding and that many interpretations of scripture reflect the prejudices of their time rather than divine intent."
"What we consider unchangeable today, was often hotly debated centuries ago."
So, I must confess I thought this was going to be a very spicy smutty book, but I was completely wrong.
Althought of course it has sex scenes, this is a forbbiden romance between two men, but not any men but the Italian Prime Minister and the freaking POPE!!!
Bothe PM and Pope start an anti-corruption investigation that involves both Government and Vatican that makes this two individuals developed -of course- a lot of threats and assassination attemps, while the lovebirds start getting feelings for each other.
Now, on the controversial side, this is the freaking Pope we're talking about!!!.. having a relationship with another public powerful man. And as much as I really enjoyed reading a good controversial drama, it also made me picture how wonderful would it be to have such a traditional Church adappting their beliefs and tolerance to love in all its forms.
This were my favorite quotes:
"I believe that God's love is broader than human understanding and that many interpretations of scripture reflect the prejudices of their time rather than divine intent."
"What we consider unchangeable today, was often hotly debated centuries ago."
June 13, 2025
Talk about high stakes! The author sets himself an incredible challenge--creating a believable romance between the prime minister of Italy and, not just a priest, but the Pope! I wanted to see what he did with this premise. In addition, there are two major plot developments, one concerning financial corruption and one involving changing the Catholic church's stance on LGBTQ+ people and celibacy for priests.
The good news is that the author makes all of this believable (okay, within the world of MM romance), Both MCs are smart, savvy, and sympathetic. The characters are also nicely drawn, particularly the priests who support Marco. I do wish there had been a little more back story on the MCs, particularly Matteo, the Prime Minister. The is a bit too much "preaching", especially in the later parts of the book. Too many grand speeches--the messages get repetitive. There's also a bit of stereotypic MF description--Matteo is consistently described as muscular, hairy, with broad shoulders where Marco is "beautiful" and soft and is passive in sex. Can't we just have two guys who are equally hot men?
These are minor qualms though--the author sets himself an incredible challenge and pulls it off in a way that makes sense and is at the same time very moving. Bravo!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The good news is that the author makes all of this believable (okay, within the world of MM romance), Both MCs are smart, savvy, and sympathetic. The characters are also nicely drawn, particularly the priests who support Marco. I do wish there had been a little more back story on the MCs, particularly Matteo, the Prime Minister. The is a bit too much "preaching", especially in the later parts of the book. Too many grand speeches--the messages get repetitive. There's also a bit of stereotypic MF description--Matteo is consistently described as muscular, hairy, with broad shoulders where Marco is "beautiful" and soft and is passive in sex. Can't we just have two guys who are equally hot men?
These are minor qualms though--the author sets himself an incredible challenge and pulls it off in a way that makes sense and is at the same time very moving. Bravo!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 29, 2025
Habemus papam indeed!!
The way C.G was able to combine a love story and the factual depiction of the struggles within the Holy See is truly amazing and commendable the story pulled my attention from page one! The tension between Marco and Matteo is immediate and incredible to see there story unfold the internal turmoil and personal dialogue and growth is truly magical and the passion between the two of them is so tastefully written unlike some books!
The way the author questions traditional catholic teachings and theological doctrine is awe inspiring and the ups and downs the both the prime minister and the holy father face through this story will have you on the edge of your seat!
Growing up as a young lgbtq+ individual in the church this book truly touched my soul, and the pontifical name choice was absolutely spot!!!
“Pope Pius XIV” The pope of peace in the modern day!
“Ube Amor, Ibi Dues Est”
The overall message of this book was very clear all things are possible through love and honesty!
In conclusion this book stole my heart entirely I love both characters well done C.G can’t wait to see what you come up with next
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The way C.G was able to combine a love story and the factual depiction of the struggles within the Holy See is truly amazing and commendable the story pulled my attention from page one! The tension between Marco and Matteo is immediate and incredible to see there story unfold the internal turmoil and personal dialogue and growth is truly magical and the passion between the two of them is so tastefully written unlike some books!
The way the author questions traditional catholic teachings and theological doctrine is awe inspiring and the ups and downs the both the prime minister and the holy father face through this story will have you on the edge of your seat!
Growing up as a young lgbtq+ individual in the church this book truly touched my soul, and the pontifical name choice was absolutely spot!!!
“Pope Pius XIV” The pope of peace in the modern day!
“Ube Amor, Ibi Dues Est”
The overall message of this book was very clear all things are possible through love and honesty!
In conclusion this book stole my heart entirely I love both characters well done C.G can’t wait to see what you come up with next
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2025
This is an interesting story about forbidden love. The author spends time and consideration on the topic of love in the modern Catholic church. It is an impassioned plea for tolerance and acceptance for all forms of love amongst the church's flock. Take this review as positive or a warning, depending on your religious and political views.
I have one major and one minor criticism.
The major: I would have liked more background on the major characters. Marco's struggle with faith and homosexuality: How did his faith begin? What were reactions to his homosexuality outside of faith (if any)? Other than completely denying his homosexuality, what has he done previously to grapple with it? Matteo's political career: How did he rise so quickly in politics? What lead to his obsession with corruption? Why has he remained essentially closeted, not deny his orientation, but not objectively open about it either?
The minor: The author seems to have an obsession with placing her characters gazing out of windows. I'm not kidding!
All in all, this was an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have one major and one minor criticism.
The major: I would have liked more background on the major characters. Marco's struggle with faith and homosexuality: How did his faith begin? What were reactions to his homosexuality outside of faith (if any)? Other than completely denying his homosexuality, what has he done previously to grapple with it? Matteo's political career: How did he rise so quickly in politics? What lead to his obsession with corruption? Why has he remained essentially closeted, not deny his orientation, but not objectively open about it either?
The minor: The author seems to have an obsession with placing her characters gazing out of windows. I'm not kidding!
All in all, this was an enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 5, 2025
The premise of this book requires a lot of suspension of disbelief. Could a relationship between the pope and prime minister of Italy ever happen in real life? Hell no! But it’s fun to pretend that the church and state won’t always be corrupt and conservative!
There is a lot of governmental decision making and boring conversations throughout the book. Some parts also seem suspiciously AI-written - “dignity and respect” is used three times to describe their love; in the beginning when Matteo is shot, the bullet grazes his cheek, then later he has a scar on his collarbone from the gunshot… things just don’t add up, or are just sloppy. Also, it would have been helpful to have whose perspective we’re reading from at the beginning of each chapter. The POV changes frequently and it’s confusing.
Altogether this was a cute read that gives me hope that if there ever was an openly gay pope, he would get as much support as Marco does. I really enjoyed reading the part where Marco confesses to Father Domenico. And the ending was sweet.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to have read an advanced copy this book for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is a lot of governmental decision making and boring conversations throughout the book. Some parts also seem suspiciously AI-written - “dignity and respect” is used three times to describe their love; in the beginning when Matteo is shot, the bullet grazes his cheek, then later he has a scar on his collarbone from the gunshot… things just don’t add up, or are just sloppy. Also, it would have been helpful to have whose perspective we’re reading from at the beginning of each chapter. The POV changes frequently and it’s confusing.
Altogether this was a cute read that gives me hope that if there ever was an openly gay pope, he would get as much support as Marco does. I really enjoyed reading the part where Marco confesses to Father Domenico. And the ending was sweet.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to have read an advanced copy this book for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2025
💕 This story may be a forbidden romance between the young new pope and the young new Italian Prime Minister, but it’s so much more - it’s brilliant.
The corruption, money laundering, and siphoning of funds, all in an intricate decades old web of deceit, both within the government and Vatican alike are exciting.
The entire renewed discussion of sexuality and gender identity within the eyes of the Catholic Church was beautifully done. I love that the pope doesn’t have an existential crisis when he falls in love with a man. At least, it’s short lived.
The story repeatedly goes back to the love that Jesus showed to all men, women and children alike. He was the embodiment of love without exception, and as followers of Christ, the Church should be emulating these acts. It challenges traditional views, but like the author has written “The Church has always evolved, always grown in its understanding.”
It’s a beautiful story of two powerful, yet humble men, both isolated in their positions, both striving for a better future for their people. In each other, they find solace and companionship, sure, but they also push each other to be better and to love more wholly.
The story is a wonderful mix of suspense and intrigue, theological discussion, and a romance that ties it all together.
The corruption, money laundering, and siphoning of funds, all in an intricate decades old web of deceit, both within the government and Vatican alike are exciting.
The entire renewed discussion of sexuality and gender identity within the eyes of the Catholic Church was beautifully done. I love that the pope doesn’t have an existential crisis when he falls in love with a man. At least, it’s short lived.
The story repeatedly goes back to the love that Jesus showed to all men, women and children alike. He was the embodiment of love without exception, and as followers of Christ, the Church should be emulating these acts. It challenges traditional views, but like the author has written “The Church has always evolved, always grown in its understanding.”
It’s a beautiful story of two powerful, yet humble men, both isolated in their positions, both striving for a better future for their people. In each other, they find solace and companionship, sure, but they also push each other to be better and to love more wholly.
The story is a wonderful mix of suspense and intrigue, theological discussion, and a romance that ties it all together.
June 25, 2025
‘Sacred,’ By C.G. Macington, is set in Rome and deals with the election of a new Pope. There is a stalemate between the conservatives and the progressives. When the compromise candidate dies of a heart attack, a new candidate needs to be found. Cardinal Marco Ricci is only thirty-one, and when he is elected, the world of the Vatican is turned upside down as their new Pope sets about cleaning up the financial corruption that has been going on for years through the Vatican Bank.
I enjoyed this novel tremendously. It was fast-paced and had great characters. The author has obviously conducted extensive research to construct the plot, and I can wholeheartedly recommend the book to other readers. I’m happy to give the book five stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this novel tremendously. It was fast-paced and had great characters. The author has obviously conducted extensive research to construct the plot, and I can wholeheartedly recommend the book to other readers. I’m happy to give the book five stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 27, 2025
BookSiren Advanced Read
I'm going to be honest and say I chose to read this book mainly because *teeheehee* GAY POPE! *teeheehee*. I've also read another book from this author and quite enjoyed it.
This one ended up being so much more and so much better, than I could have imagined. Loved the characters. Loved the storylines. Was filled with tension and love and it drew me right into the story.
The romance aspect was beautifully written. I'm not a religious person or even a believer, so know very little about Christian religious practices, but the research was clearly done to try and make sure it was as authentic as possible, which really did help with stuff I didn't know about.
Overall it was a great story and I'm really glad I read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm going to be honest and say I chose to read this book mainly because *teeheehee* GAY POPE! *teeheehee*. I've also read another book from this author and quite enjoyed it.
This one ended up being so much more and so much better, than I could have imagined. Loved the characters. Loved the storylines. Was filled with tension and love and it drew me right into the story.
The romance aspect was beautifully written. I'm not a religious person or even a believer, so know very little about Christian religious practices, but the research was clearly done to try and make sure it was as authentic as possible, which really did help with stuff I didn't know about.
Overall it was a great story and I'm really glad I read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 22, 2025
Decent enough writing. As you would expect though, considering the behemoth that is the Catholic Church, everything was simplified and pretty dumbed down so that the Pope [Marco] apparently knew his Swiss security guard by name, and also had a nun who was extremely familiar with all things tech-based. Suspend your disbelief, and the plot concerning corruption, blackmail, murder and how to come up with a solution for everything was quite a good one.
The romance between Marco and the Italian Prime Minister Matteo played second fiddle to the more serious [and probably non fictional] issue of widespread corruption in the Italian government and some of the higher-ups in the Catholic clergy...not forgetting the Mafia of course.
The romance between Marco and the Italian Prime Minister Matteo played second fiddle to the more serious [and probably non fictional] issue of widespread corruption in the Italian government and some of the higher-ups in the Catholic clergy...not forgetting the Mafia of course.
June 7, 2025
When Italian prime minister Matteo Valentini meets the new pope Pius XIV ( Marco ) they both feel an instant connection and they begin working together to end financial corruption in the church and Italy. I loved this book. I love how their love blossomed over time, and naturally. I also liked how realistic it felt. That everything from corruption scandals to LGBT+ matters was a fight that could not be solved in a day but that things cannot change unless someone starts it. I highly recommend this book
June 12, 2025
I'm not sure what to say about this except only in a perfect world could this be true. Marco @ 34 years old has become the new Pope. Mateo also 34 is the Prime Minister. They fight together to end political corruption between the Church & Political parties. As they're doing this they fall in love & open the minds of people that there is no written word that Love should only be between man & woman. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 22, 2025
I really liked this book and especially enjoyed the theological aspects. I feel like the author did a good job of handling the topics and representing the characters.
This book obviously requires a good amount of disbelief, but I wish that the relationship was a bit more fleshed out. They really didn’t spend a lot of time together.
Additionally, I wish there were better indicators of perspective change.
Overall an engaging read!
This book obviously requires a good amount of disbelief, but I wish that the relationship was a bit more fleshed out. They really didn’t spend a lot of time together.
Additionally, I wish there were better indicators of perspective change.
Overall an engaging read!
September 8, 2025
I wasn’t really sure what to expect from this story but I was truly impressed and happy that I got to read/listen to this book. It opened my eyes to what really is possible and how strongly this would affect the world today. I am so happy that Matteo and Marco were able to be true to who they are and hopefully get to have a great future. I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves mm romance stories especially with spiritual influences.
September 19, 2025
Marco is the youngest pope at the Vatican and Matteo the youngest prime minister. After an assassination attempt Matteo goes to the Vatican to meet with Marco about ending corruption between the church and politicians. Both men are fairly progressive in their thinking. This is not only a love story, but covers plenty of heavy subjects including scandals, conflicts, beliefs and feelings.
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