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The Idol: An MM Dark Romance
Elior Ransom has never been allowed to be just a boy. To the Covenant, he is the Vessel of Light—sacred, untouchable, born to suffer so the faithful may be redeemed. Every lash across his back, every sleepless vigil, every silent prayer is a reminder that his life does not belong to him. And when unholy longings creep into his heart—longings for touch, for warmth, for love—he punishes himself with prayer until the ache subsides… almost.
Jace Agbayani never expected his latest assignment to bring him here, deep inside the hidden compound of a cult obsessed with prophecy and purity. His mission is infiltrate, observe, and gather enough evidence to bring down Malachi Ransom, the Covenant’s leader. But when he meets Malachi’s son—the so-called Vessel—Jace sees not a holy icon, but a lonely, fragile man who has never known life beyond worship and pain.
What begins as strategy soon becomes temptation. Elior craves Jace’s kindness like forbidden fruit, even as he chastises himself for the sin of wanting. And Jace finds himself risking more than his cover with every stolen glance, every whispered word, every touch he swore he’d never give.
But in a world where devotion is power and betrayal is death, desire is the most dangerous sin of all.
The Idol is the first of two books in the Sacriligious Love series. It is a dark MM romance centered around religious themes and forbidden relationships. Daddy kink (no ageplay). The Idol does end on a cliffhanger, but Elior and Jace's story will ultimately conclude in The Judas with a HEA.
Content warnings included in the Preface.
Jace Agbayani never expected his latest assignment to bring him here, deep inside the hidden compound of a cult obsessed with prophecy and purity. His mission is infiltrate, observe, and gather enough evidence to bring down Malachi Ransom, the Covenant’s leader. But when he meets Malachi’s son—the so-called Vessel—Jace sees not a holy icon, but a lonely, fragile man who has never known life beyond worship and pain.
What begins as strategy soon becomes temptation. Elior craves Jace’s kindness like forbidden fruit, even as he chastises himself for the sin of wanting. And Jace finds himself risking more than his cover with every stolen glance, every whispered word, every touch he swore he’d never give.
But in a world where devotion is power and betrayal is death, desire is the most dangerous sin of all.
The Idol is the first of two books in the Sacriligious Love series. It is a dark MM romance centered around religious themes and forbidden relationships. Daddy kink (no ageplay). The Idol does end on a cliffhanger, but Elior and Jace's story will ultimately conclude in The Judas with a HEA.
Content warnings included in the Preface.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
26 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
E. Baileu
12 books83 followersHi!
I’m a new author in the MM romance space. I primarily write dark romance, but like wholesome dark romance? You won’t find any verbal abuse or bullying in my books. I understand some people like that, but some people (me) prefer our morally grey men to dote on us.
My education background is in Criminology and Psychology, but I’ve always had a love for literature. I grew up writing short stories and poetry. As I got older, my creativity seemed to fade away and I became stuck in a monotonous routine. In December 2024, I suddenly decided to write Under Your Care. It felt like I had finally found what I was supposed to be doing with my life. I am so excited to share even more romantic, depraved, and kinky stories with everyone!!
Thank you,
E. (Elizabeth) Baileu
I’m a new author in the MM romance space. I primarily write dark romance, but like wholesome dark romance? You won’t find any verbal abuse or bullying in my books. I understand some people like that, but some people (me) prefer our morally grey men to dote on us.
My education background is in Criminology and Psychology, but I’ve always had a love for literature. I grew up writing short stories and poetry. As I got older, my creativity seemed to fade away and I became stuck in a monotonous routine. In December 2024, I suddenly decided to write Under Your Care. It felt like I had finally found what I was supposed to be doing with my life. I am so excited to share even more romantic, depraved, and kinky stories with everyone!!
Thank you,
E. (Elizabeth) Baileu
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 4, 2026
₊˚⊹ | 5 ★ read .ᐟ
The words I don't have to express how much I loved and obsessed over this... y'all don't get how this book occupied 99% of my brain ever since I started it! Goodness!
For a second there, I felt like I was going through Midsommar all over again, the atmosphere felt so eerie to me with the whole cult idea, how they behaved and acted and treated everything. From the way they dressed to the way they prayed and spent their day to day lives. I know it wasn't a horror book like the movie, but the vibes were there and I got the chills more than once. The idea of a cult and the chapters from Elior's perspective? Now that's some creepy stuff and I didn't face away from it!!!! I loved this so much!!!
AND YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE I LOVED?? ELIOR BEING CALLED CHERUB. FREAKING CHERUB 😭 his image in my head was so accurate and stainless and just perfect and I loved that??? As a young man in a heterosexual community? He was their princess all the way with all the princess privileges!
After a 5 star book I know it's gonna take me a while to get used to another book after this one, but goddamn, I'm gonna think about this story a lot... Can't wait for the second book to come out.
Oh, I almost forgot. Someone needs to pay the bill for my therapy after that ending, that was painful as hell.
The words I don't have to express how much I loved and obsessed over this... y'all don't get how this book occupied 99% of my brain ever since I started it! Goodness!
For a second there, I felt like I was going through Midsommar all over again, the atmosphere felt so eerie to me with the whole cult idea, how they behaved and acted and treated everything. From the way they dressed to the way they prayed and spent their day to day lives. I know it wasn't a horror book like the movie, but the vibes were there and I got the chills more than once. The idea of a cult and the chapters from Elior's perspective? Now that's some creepy stuff and I didn't face away from it!!!! I loved this so much!!!
AND YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE I LOVED?? ELIOR BEING CALLED CHERUB. FREAKING CHERUB 😭 his image in my head was so accurate and stainless and just perfect and I loved that??? As a young man in a heterosexual community? He was their princess all the way with all the princess privileges!
After a 5 star book I know it's gonna take me a while to get used to another book after this one, but goddamn, I'm gonna think about this story a lot... Can't wait for the second book to come out.
Oh, I almost forgot. Someone needs to pay the bill for my therapy after that ending, that was painful as hell.
December 12, 2025
THE IDOL | E. BAILEU 💫 ARC REVİEW
Holy f*ck! I started with the holy oil scene… and yes, I still haven’t recovered! 😂🔥
This book was not only unforgettable because of its scenes, but also because of its unique storyline. The Idol is a story that directly appeals to MM dark romance lovers; with its dark themes, religious undertones, and forbidden-love dynamics, it completely pulls you in. And the fact that it’s the first book in E. Baileu’s Sacrilegious Love series? A seriously strong start.
My favorite daddy kink elements being included absolutely destroyed me in the best way. I read it without getting bored for even a second, always thinking, “Okay, now what’s going to happen?”
At first, it felt a bit slow burn to me, but as you get to know Elior, you realize how perfect that pacing actually is. His naive nature, that pure yet deep essence of his, is portrayed so beautifully… If it had gone faster, it simply wouldn’t have been this impactful.
Elior’s delicate, protected, vulnerable nature stands in perfect contrast to Jace—who is drawn to him the very moment he sees him. The way he takes him under his wing, guides him, leads him, and protects him… The magnetic pull between them practically jumps off the pages. 🫶🔥
I swear, my eyes turned into heart emojis the whole time I was reading.
@author.e.baileu
#DarkRomance #MMRomance #Bookstagram #SpicyBooks #ForbiddenLove #BookTokRecs #RomanceReaders #BookAddict #Smuttok #BookishLove
Holy f*ck! I started with the holy oil scene… and yes, I still haven’t recovered! 😂🔥
This book was not only unforgettable because of its scenes, but also because of its unique storyline. The Idol is a story that directly appeals to MM dark romance lovers; with its dark themes, religious undertones, and forbidden-love dynamics, it completely pulls you in. And the fact that it’s the first book in E. Baileu’s Sacrilegious Love series? A seriously strong start.
My favorite daddy kink elements being included absolutely destroyed me in the best way. I read it without getting bored for even a second, always thinking, “Okay, now what’s going to happen?”
At first, it felt a bit slow burn to me, but as you get to know Elior, you realize how perfect that pacing actually is. His naive nature, that pure yet deep essence of his, is portrayed so beautifully… If it had gone faster, it simply wouldn’t have been this impactful.
Elior’s delicate, protected, vulnerable nature stands in perfect contrast to Jace—who is drawn to him the very moment he sees him. The way he takes him under his wing, guides him, leads him, and protects him… The magnetic pull between them practically jumps off the pages. 🫶🔥
I swear, my eyes turned into heart emojis the whole time I was reading.
@author.e.baileu
#DarkRomance #MMRomance #Bookstagram #SpicyBooks #ForbiddenLove #BookTokRecs #RomanceReaders #BookAddict #Smuttok #BookishLove
December 22, 2025
This was a very interesting and riveting read! I felt like the whole cult dynamic and life was so well written. I was there with Elior and Jace, holding my breath and curious about what Malachi would do next. The manipulation and the preaching was also very well written. Elior is the Vessel, while his father is the cult leader, and Jace is the FBI agent sent to infiltrate the cult. It was interesting to see how Jace tried to get close to Elior and how he achieved that.
Make no mistake, this story is dark, but Elior is such a good, kind, naive and trusting person and will have you wanting to protect him.
This does end on a cliffhanger and I'm very curious to see what happens with Elior and Jace moving forward.
Make no mistake, this story is dark, but Elior is such a good, kind, naive and trusting person and will have you wanting to protect him.
This does end on a cliffhanger and I'm very curious to see what happens with Elior and Jace moving forward.
December 23, 2025
Elior my baby, I want to stuff him in a pocket and say that he will be okay ❤️
This book felt like watching a documentary of cult activites. I honestly don't know how I feel about Jace, but I liked that he teached Elior some things in life that's normal that Elior didn't knew about.
I did love the sex scenes. Really... loved them 🫣🫢😍
That cliffhanger though... Uuuurgh.
And now I heard from the author herself that it will be a second male love interest in the second book?! I don't know how I will survive that.
This book felt like watching a documentary of cult activites. I honestly don't know how I feel about Jace, but I liked that he teached Elior some things in life that's normal that Elior didn't knew about.
I did love the sex scenes. Really... loved them 🫣🫢😍
That cliffhanger though... Uuuurgh.
And now I heard from the author herself that it will be a second male love interest in the second book?! I don't know how I will survive that.
December 17, 2025
This is what I get for reading a book that I KNOW ends on a cliffhanger. I deserve the distress.
March 6, 2026
😇🙏 I Didn't Know How To Be Soft. Until Now. Until Him 😈✝️
"Mercy without discipline breeds decay. The faithful must be reminded of the cost of their salvation."
"It was peaceful in the same way a graveyard was. But death was the ultimate peace, after all."
"Golden light illuminated him, making his light blonde hair glow like his very own halo. And I mean--holy f*** . I'd never been equally so attracted and so unsettled by a person."
"Adorable, I thought before I could stop myself. I mentally slapped myself. He's the son of a f****** cult leader."
"Light of Heaven, burn away the shadows within me. Let my heart be clean as glass, my thoughts like still water."
"This wasn't how I was supposed to feel. I wasn't supposed to think about someone like that. But even as I tried to steady my thoughts, my heart kept drifting toward him like a moth to a flame."
"I didn't feel sacred. And as I knelt there, chest heaving, vision swimming, I couldn't help wondering-- If the Light was so merciful...Why did it hurt this much?"
"No one had ever needed me gently. They'd needed me competent, strong, or brutal, but never soft. I didn't know how to be soft. Until now. Until him."
"Two days until the world tried to take him from me. And God help anyone-- including the FBI-- who thought I'd f****** let them."
"Daddy please...it's too much...someone might hear."
"They'd all be dripping with jealousy, watching as I f*** their idol."
"Elior didn't know what he did to me. He didn't know how his tears ignited something so damn protective inside me. He didn't know how his smile--God, that impossibly pure f****** smile--made me feel like every ugly part of me was being rewritten."
This was such a phenomenal book and I loved every second of it. This author has always been a go-to author for me and I have read everything by her. This is now at the top of that list. This was a slow burn but when the spice kicked in, it was spicing hard and so kinky 🔥🔥🔥🔥. This had some great troupes likes: Cult Setting, FBI Agent/Cult Leader's Son, Forced Proximity, Age Gap, Hurt/Comfort, and Forbidden Romance. The characters were fleshed out perfectly. This author did a perfect job reflecting the cult setting and experience. My heart broke for poor Elior 😭. This one had me in my feels and especially at the end. This ends on a cliffhanger, but the second part of the duet is out, thankfully!
This story follows Jace and Elior. Jace is an FBI agent who is trying to infiltrate and bring down this religious cult. He finally gets brought in to be a member. He meets Elior, the vessel of light who is the cult leader's son. Once they lock eyes, they're both intrigued by each other. Elior only listens and doesn't speak to anyone but his father. Jace tries to get close to Elior to get information. Jace ends up becoming obsessed with him and feelings get complicated. They start to have a secret relationship but Father is always watching. Father gets more dangerous and starts to discipline more people, including Elior. Can the FBI get there in time before anyone else is hurt? What will Elior think once he finds out who Jace really is?
I loved the relationship and dynamics between these two men so much. Elior is innocent and sheltered to where he doesn't know much about intimacy or relationships. Jace is drawn to his purity, aura, and goodness. Jace is somewhat like a psychopath who masks his desires. Until he meets Elior and decides that's his boy 🤣🤣. I loved how protective and feral he was for Elior. I loved the Daddy/boy dynamics and the kinks in this 🥵. The chemistry between them was off the charts 🥵. The spicy scenes and mouth on Daddy Jace holy moly 🔥🔥🔥💦😏😉. Jace was such a caretaker and so sweet yet deadly. I loved how sweet and innocent Elior was. My heart broke for how he was raised and treated 😭. That boy continued to suffer. My heart broke whne his father berated and tore him to shreds 😭😭😭. The ending left you wondering how their relationship will either evolve or suffer from Jace's hidden identity. I can't wait for these two to get their HEA and heal. Off to read the second part!
"Mercy without discipline breeds decay. The faithful must be reminded of the cost of their salvation."
"It was peaceful in the same way a graveyard was. But death was the ultimate peace, after all."
"Golden light illuminated him, making his light blonde hair glow like his very own halo. And I mean--holy f*** . I'd never been equally so attracted and so unsettled by a person."
"Adorable, I thought before I could stop myself. I mentally slapped myself. He's the son of a f****** cult leader."
"Light of Heaven, burn away the shadows within me. Let my heart be clean as glass, my thoughts like still water."
"This wasn't how I was supposed to feel. I wasn't supposed to think about someone like that. But even as I tried to steady my thoughts, my heart kept drifting toward him like a moth to a flame."
"I didn't feel sacred. And as I knelt there, chest heaving, vision swimming, I couldn't help wondering-- If the Light was so merciful...Why did it hurt this much?"
"No one had ever needed me gently. They'd needed me competent, strong, or brutal, but never soft. I didn't know how to be soft. Until now. Until him."
"Two days until the world tried to take him from me. And God help anyone-- including the FBI-- who thought I'd f****** let them."
"Daddy please...it's too much...someone might hear."
"They'd all be dripping with jealousy, watching as I f*** their idol."
"Elior didn't know what he did to me. He didn't know how his tears ignited something so damn protective inside me. He didn't know how his smile--God, that impossibly pure f****** smile--made me feel like every ugly part of me was being rewritten."
This was such a phenomenal book and I loved every second of it. This author has always been a go-to author for me and I have read everything by her. This is now at the top of that list. This was a slow burn but when the spice kicked in, it was spicing hard and so kinky 🔥🔥🔥🔥. This had some great troupes likes: Cult Setting, FBI Agent/Cult Leader's Son, Forced Proximity, Age Gap, Hurt/Comfort, and Forbidden Romance. The characters were fleshed out perfectly. This author did a perfect job reflecting the cult setting and experience. My heart broke for poor Elior 😭. This one had me in my feels and especially at the end. This ends on a cliffhanger, but the second part of the duet is out, thankfully!
This story follows Jace and Elior. Jace is an FBI agent who is trying to infiltrate and bring down this religious cult. He finally gets brought in to be a member. He meets Elior, the vessel of light who is the cult leader's son. Once they lock eyes, they're both intrigued by each other. Elior only listens and doesn't speak to anyone but his father. Jace tries to get close to Elior to get information. Jace ends up becoming obsessed with him and feelings get complicated. They start to have a secret relationship but Father is always watching. Father gets more dangerous and starts to discipline more people, including Elior. Can the FBI get there in time before anyone else is hurt? What will Elior think once he finds out who Jace really is?
I loved the relationship and dynamics between these two men so much. Elior is innocent and sheltered to where he doesn't know much about intimacy or relationships. Jace is drawn to his purity, aura, and goodness. Jace is somewhat like a psychopath who masks his desires. Until he meets Elior and decides that's his boy 🤣🤣. I loved how protective and feral he was for Elior. I loved the Daddy/boy dynamics and the kinks in this 🥵. The chemistry between them was off the charts 🥵. The spicy scenes and mouth on Daddy Jace holy moly 🔥🔥🔥💦😏😉. Jace was such a caretaker and so sweet yet deadly. I loved how sweet and innocent Elior was. My heart broke for how he was raised and treated 😭. That boy continued to suffer. My heart broke whne his father berated and tore him to shreds 😭😭😭. The ending left you wondering how their relationship will either evolve or suffer from Jace's hidden identity. I can't wait for these two to get their HEA and heal. Off to read the second part!
December 14, 2025
NGL I went into this book half blind because I was just so excited to see another dark mm romance involving a religious cult, I mean the last book I read was a SEX cult and it was so good still stuck on my mind. I thought to myself well I'll never experience anything dark and twisty like that again and OH BOY. I made it through half the blurb before I dived in, like it was that tantalizing, I knew this would be good. I don't recommend skipping the trigger warnings and stuff somehow I missed the part that one of the MCs would be a psychopath AND there would be a daddy/boy dynamic here, if I known I'd probably passed out. I love all those things! As I got to those parts it really felt like this book was made for me. All these combinations of my favorite tropes??? Christmas came early and I have no idea what I am going to do with myself until Part 2 in February. FULL SPOILERS AHEAD: So many things I liked about this book. FIRSTLY Elior!!!! I love his characterization. The face of a cult, innocent touch starved kinda isolated and brainwashed and controlled by his father (craving his father's afffection!!). And okay so not knowing Jace was a psychopath I thought this book would follow a traditional formula of the altruistic rescuer x abuse survivor and oh no honey I was not ready for his darker thoughts. This book reminded me I indeed have a corruption kink. I was definitely NOT READY. Jace talking about how he kept that part of him hidden and when he's basically like "fuck it idc if I blow my cover" and goes to Elior at night that first time WOWEEE.
Elior brought out two sides of Jace his possessive side and his daddy side. And it sort of gave me whiplash between the two because right after the whipping happens Jace goes full daddy. Gentle sweet. he builds his resolve to protect Elior. And leading up to the first sex scene totally thought Jace would be gentle NAHHHHH he takes him and fucks him on his alter MY JAW DROPPED, that was definitely darker impulses Jace. I was not prepared. It was a masterpiece.
I felt like the world building around the inner workings of the cult was okay. I felt like the investigation part of the plot was just too easy for Jace, like why the cultists didn't do a full strip search of him how he was able to hide his phone get free time to make outside communication and basically free range of the compound, nobody was watching that man LOL, not that I'm rooting for the cultists. But the real tension really amped up towards the end when the father started acting erratic and every cult member started getting scared! I was scared too. And book 1 ending the way it did INTENSE. Elior's mental breakdown? Totally cliff hanger or suspension grabbing.
I yapped too much and I wish I could go over a lot more. One of my favorite reads to end the year, I wish part 1 was longer and I can't wait for part 2!
Elior brought out two sides of Jace his possessive side and his daddy side. And it sort of gave me whiplash between the two because right after the whipping happens Jace goes full daddy. Gentle sweet. he builds his resolve to protect Elior. And leading up to the first sex scene totally thought Jace would be gentle NAHHHHH he takes him and fucks him on his alter MY JAW DROPPED, that was definitely darker impulses Jace. I was not prepared. It was a masterpiece.
I felt like the world building around the inner workings of the cult was okay. I felt like the investigation part of the plot was just too easy for Jace, like why the cultists didn't do a full strip search of him how he was able to hide his phone get free time to make outside communication and basically free range of the compound, nobody was watching that man LOL, not that I'm rooting for the cultists. But the real tension really amped up towards the end when the father started acting erratic and every cult member started getting scared! I was scared too. And book 1 ending the way it did INTENSE. Elior's mental breakdown? Totally cliff hanger or suspension grabbing.
I yapped too much and I wish I could go over a lot more. One of my favorite reads to end the year, I wish part 1 was longer and I can't wait for part 2!
March 15, 2026
Here's E Baileu's "The Idol" It's the first novel in the Sacriligious Love duology.
["Elior Ransom has never been allowed to be just a boy. To the Covenant, he is the Vessel of Light—sacred, untouchable, born to suffer so the faithful may be redeemed. Every lash across his back, every sleepless vigil, every silent prayer is a reminder that his life does not belong to him. And when unholy longings creep into his heart—longings for touch, for warmth, for love—he punishes himself with prayer until the ache subsides… almost.
Jace Agbayani never expected his latest assignment to bring him here, deep inside the hidden compound of a cult obsessed with prophecy and purity. His mission is infiltrate, observe, and gather enough evidence to bring down Malachi Ransom, the Covenant’s leader. But when he meets Malachi’s son—the so-called Vessel—Jace sees not a holy icon, but a lonely, fragile man who has never known life beyond worship and pain.
What begins as strategy soon becomes temptation. Elior craves Jace’s kindness like forbidden fruit, even as he chastises himself for the sin of wanting. And Jace finds himself risking more than his cover with every stolen glance, every whispered word, every touch he swore he’d never give.
But in a world where devotion is power and betrayal is death, desire is the most dangerous sin of all."]
I gotta say, I was all in very, very quickly. These two had love at first sight, even if neither understood the power or consequences of that love. Elior knew what he was feeling wasn't "right" according to his father and according to the life he grew up in, but he also really started questioning how something so warm and confronting and happy and safe could be wrong. Jace knew his feelings for Elior weren't good for his case or his career, but he quickly put all of that behind him for his little cherub.
These two were cute, even if they were playing with fire (and lives). They didn't have it easy, especially Elior, who knew next to nothing about the world. And Jace probably could have, arguably, went about the last chapter with a little more tact and preparation but....let's blame the FBI on that one.
On to the next book...where I imagine myself crying.
Trigger Warnings: religious themes, cult dynamics, distorted interpretations of faith, manipulation through faith, harmful uses of doctrine, MC suffering from long-term narcissistic abuse by a parent, noncon and dubcon, psychopath, physical abuse, violence, unhealthy power dynamics, and more.
#theidol #thejudas #sacriligiouslove #sacriligiousloveseries #ebaileu #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Elior Ransom has never been allowed to be just a boy. To the Covenant, he is the Vessel of Light—sacred, untouchable, born to suffer so the faithful may be redeemed. Every lash across his back, every sleepless vigil, every silent prayer is a reminder that his life does not belong to him. And when unholy longings creep into his heart—longings for touch, for warmth, for love—he punishes himself with prayer until the ache subsides… almost.
Jace Agbayani never expected his latest assignment to bring him here, deep inside the hidden compound of a cult obsessed with prophecy and purity. His mission is infiltrate, observe, and gather enough evidence to bring down Malachi Ransom, the Covenant’s leader. But when he meets Malachi’s son—the so-called Vessel—Jace sees not a holy icon, but a lonely, fragile man who has never known life beyond worship and pain.
What begins as strategy soon becomes temptation. Elior craves Jace’s kindness like forbidden fruit, even as he chastises himself for the sin of wanting. And Jace finds himself risking more than his cover with every stolen glance, every whispered word, every touch he swore he’d never give.
But in a world where devotion is power and betrayal is death, desire is the most dangerous sin of all."]
I gotta say, I was all in very, very quickly. These two had love at first sight, even if neither understood the power or consequences of that love. Elior knew what he was feeling wasn't "right" according to his father and according to the life he grew up in, but he also really started questioning how something so warm and confronting and happy and safe could be wrong. Jace knew his feelings for Elior weren't good for his case or his career, but he quickly put all of that behind him for his little cherub.
These two were cute, even if they were playing with fire (and lives). They didn't have it easy, especially Elior, who knew next to nothing about the world. And Jace probably could have, arguably, went about the last chapter with a little more tact and preparation but....let's blame the FBI on that one.
On to the next book...where I imagine myself crying.
Trigger Warnings: religious themes, cult dynamics, distorted interpretations of faith, manipulation through faith, harmful uses of doctrine, MC suffering from long-term narcissistic abuse by a parent, noncon and dubcon, psychopath, physical abuse, violence, unhealthy power dynamics, and more.
#theidol #thejudas #sacriligiouslove #sacriligiousloveseries #ebaileu #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
December 12, 2025
This was such a fantastic and thrilling read. Like everything that has to do with a cult, it's something that leaves you thinking and reflecting on the actions certain people take, driving them to such lengths with their faith. It’s really interesting to read about.
Elior is the son of a cult leader, which he was born into and grew up around. That is the only thing he knows; everything that has been taught to him by his father and that he has been led to believe is all he knows. He is led to think he is “The Light” that is going to be the salvation for his people.
Jace has a mission assigned to him, and that is to infiltrate this cult to gather evidence to put an end to it. There being some reports of missing people, he is set to get to the bottom of it. But his intentions are not from the goodness of his heart, because Elior awakens something dark and possessive in him.
I like how the story took its time to develop, like it makes you understand how these people living in this situation are led to believe and be manipulated into action and follow certain absurd and harsh things.
Elior is very smart despite being basically trained to follow his father's words. He can piece things together slowly, and with Jace in the picture, it becomes clear that he was deprived of so many things. Jace is so drawn to Elior, and not because of what he represents but because he sees Elior as an actual human being and boy who was forbidden from many normal things in life. It’s his mission to protect Elior from the claws of his father, without getting caught, and for the inevitable consequences that will come from the mission he was assigned and its aftermath.
Loved these two so much, and I’ll be patiently waiting for the next book and get to read all the upcoming challenges they’ll have to face to get their deserved HEA.
Elior is the son of a cult leader, which he was born into and grew up around. That is the only thing he knows; everything that has been taught to him by his father and that he has been led to believe is all he knows. He is led to think he is “The Light” that is going to be the salvation for his people.
Jace has a mission assigned to him, and that is to infiltrate this cult to gather evidence to put an end to it. There being some reports of missing people, he is set to get to the bottom of it. But his intentions are not from the goodness of his heart, because Elior awakens something dark and possessive in him.
I like how the story took its time to develop, like it makes you understand how these people living in this situation are led to believe and be manipulated into action and follow certain absurd and harsh things.
Elior is very smart despite being basically trained to follow his father's words. He can piece things together slowly, and with Jace in the picture, it becomes clear that he was deprived of so many things. Jace is so drawn to Elior, and not because of what he represents but because he sees Elior as an actual human being and boy who was forbidden from many normal things in life. It’s his mission to protect Elior from the claws of his father, without getting caught, and for the inevitable consequences that will come from the mission he was assigned and its aftermath.
Loved these two so much, and I’ll be patiently waiting for the next book and get to read all the upcoming challenges they’ll have to face to get their deserved HEA.
December 26, 2025
The Idol by E. Baileu delivered on everything I hoped for and then blindsided me.
Jace is an FBI agent sent undercover to infiltrate a cult that’s landed on a watchlist after people start disappearing. Gaining access to the compound, he’s introduced to the charismatic leader Malachi… and then to Malachi’s son, Elior—the cult’s “Vessel.” Jace’s mission quickly becomes more complicated as he tries to determine whether Elior is complicit in his father’s plans or simply another victim trapped in the system.
I went into this book almost blind, driven purely by my love of dark MM romance and cult dynamics and wow, that was a choice. The story is dark, twisted, and deeply emotional in a way E. Baileu excels at. The cult environment, manipulation, and religious indoctrination are chillingly well written. I felt completely immersed, constantly holding my breath and waiting to see what Malachi would do next.
Elior absolutely stole my heart. He’s innocent, touch-starved, isolated, and so desperately craving his father’s approval. His vulnerability makes you want to protect him at all costs. Jace, on the other hand… I was not prepared. I expected an altruistic rescuer. Instead, I got a morally dark, possessive, deeply conflicted man with impulses he’s spent a lifetime hiding. Discovering that side of him—especially through his connection with Elior was intoxicating.
Their dynamic is intense and unsettling in the best way. Elior brings out both Jace’s protective, caretaking side and his darker, more possessive instincts. The tonal shift between tenderness and brutality gave me whiplash. Just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story took a sharp turn and reminded me exactly what kind of book this is.
Make no mistake: this is a dark romance. Check the trigger warnings. Do not skip them. But if you love cult stories, manipulation, corruption, and morally grey characters, this book feels tailor-made.
It does end on a cliffhanger, but not an over-the-top one. It’s the kind that leaves you asking, “Where do they go from here?” And honestly? I cannot wait to find out. February cannot come fast enough.
Jace is an FBI agent sent undercover to infiltrate a cult that’s landed on a watchlist after people start disappearing. Gaining access to the compound, he’s introduced to the charismatic leader Malachi… and then to Malachi’s son, Elior—the cult’s “Vessel.” Jace’s mission quickly becomes more complicated as he tries to determine whether Elior is complicit in his father’s plans or simply another victim trapped in the system.
I went into this book almost blind, driven purely by my love of dark MM romance and cult dynamics and wow, that was a choice. The story is dark, twisted, and deeply emotional in a way E. Baileu excels at. The cult environment, manipulation, and religious indoctrination are chillingly well written. I felt completely immersed, constantly holding my breath and waiting to see what Malachi would do next.
Elior absolutely stole my heart. He’s innocent, touch-starved, isolated, and so desperately craving his father’s approval. His vulnerability makes you want to protect him at all costs. Jace, on the other hand… I was not prepared. I expected an altruistic rescuer. Instead, I got a morally dark, possessive, deeply conflicted man with impulses he’s spent a lifetime hiding. Discovering that side of him—especially through his connection with Elior was intoxicating.
Their dynamic is intense and unsettling in the best way. Elior brings out both Jace’s protective, caretaking side and his darker, more possessive instincts. The tonal shift between tenderness and brutality gave me whiplash. Just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story took a sharp turn and reminded me exactly what kind of book this is.
Make no mistake: this is a dark romance. Check the trigger warnings. Do not skip them. But if you love cult stories, manipulation, corruption, and morally grey characters, this book feels tailor-made.
It does end on a cliffhanger, but not an over-the-top one. It’s the kind that leaves you asking, “Where do they go from here?” And honestly? I cannot wait to find out. February cannot come fast enough.
December 13, 2025
This is a Dark Romance in a cult setting so make sure you check the TWs. This is also Book 1 in a Duet and it does end on a Cliffhanger a
So heads up there.
🌶🌶.5
Ok spoiler free bare bones Review incoming 🤣
Jace is an FBI agent tasked with infiltrating a Cult that has popped up on a watch list. Some people have gone missing and the FBI wants to know what's going on. Jace does end up getting an Invite into the compound and the leader Malachi shows him around and then introduces Jace to his son Elior who The Cult Vessel. Jace now has to find out if Elior is part of this grand plan with his father or just another pawn.
Cult books always intrigue me so I jumped on this one when I seen E. Baileu was writing it. It's dark and twisty but also emotional the way she does it best. The Cliffhanger isn't dramatic so don't let that steer you away! You know I would tell you 🤣 It's the perfect "Where do they go from here" type so I can't wait for part 2.
So heads up there.
🌶🌶.5
Ok spoiler free bare bones Review incoming 🤣
Jace is an FBI agent tasked with infiltrating a Cult that has popped up on a watch list. Some people have gone missing and the FBI wants to know what's going on. Jace does end up getting an Invite into the compound and the leader Malachi shows him around and then introduces Jace to his son Elior who The Cult Vessel. Jace now has to find out if Elior is part of this grand plan with his father or just another pawn.
Cult books always intrigue me so I jumped on this one when I seen E. Baileu was writing it. It's dark and twisty but also emotional the way she does it best. The Cliffhanger isn't dramatic so don't let that steer you away! You know I would tell you 🤣 It's the perfect "Where do they go from here" type so I can't wait for part 2.
February 25, 2026
I really enjoyed the whole concept, a bit different to other “cult” infiltration type books I’ve previously read.
I just can’t get past the rimming before a kiss and A was okay with that when he was so… not against but scared of touch and going against his father and faith.
I struggle with these smaller reads because I always seem to want more and I think the pace of this book just had me rolling my eyes a bit. Maybe timelines are needed, maybe this was all set over 12 months… but it seemed like a lot for a scared, inexperienced young man opening himself up to a literal stranger when he’s bee kept away his entire life?
I’m really looking forward to the next book though don’t get me wrong. That cliffhanger got me!
I just can’t get past the rimming before a kiss and A was okay with that when he was so… not against but scared of touch and going against his father and faith.
I struggle with these smaller reads because I always seem to want more and I think the pace of this book just had me rolling my eyes a bit. Maybe timelines are needed, maybe this was all set over 12 months… but it seemed like a lot for a scared, inexperienced young man opening himself up to a literal stranger when he’s bee kept away his entire life?
I’m really looking forward to the next book though don’t get me wrong. That cliffhanger got me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2025
I received an Advanced Reader Copy.
I usually don't do cliff hangers, but the summary was intriguing enough for me to take a chance. The chance was definitely worth it. While it is a duet, HFN, the cliff hanger was not rage inducing. It was fitting and I look forward to see the aftermath and the slow healing. I love how innocence Elior was due to how he was raised. He was adorable, but I really felt for him. I loved the way Jace took care of him even if at first he did some questionable things; but he turned around and knew what the baby angel needed. It was so sweet and hit you right in the feels. The way they were written was chef's kiss. I can't wait to read Book 2.
I usually don't do cliff hangers, but the summary was intriguing enough for me to take a chance. The chance was definitely worth it. While it is a duet, HFN, the cliff hanger was not rage inducing. It was fitting and I look forward to see the aftermath and the slow healing. I love how innocence Elior was due to how he was raised. He was adorable, but I really felt for him. I loved the way Jace took care of him even if at first he did some questionable things; but he turned around and knew what the baby angel needed. It was so sweet and hit you right in the feels. The way they were written was chef's kiss. I can't wait to read Book 2.
December 13, 2025
This was definitely a top read of 2025 for me!
I absolutely love sweet Elior and daddy Jace.
The storyline kept me deeply interested for sure with the cult and Elior's father terrorizing everyone, but it was the relationship between Elior and Jace that made me read it all in less than a day.
Everytime Elior let Jace in just a teensie bit more I was jumping up and down and screaming because that sweet boy deserves all the love.
Im extremely excited (and a bit nervous 😅) to see what happens in book 2 because that cliffhanger was a little heartbreaking 🥹 but I have the highest of hopes for Elior and Jace because this book was AMAZING!
I absolutely love sweet Elior and daddy Jace.
The storyline kept me deeply interested for sure with the cult and Elior's father terrorizing everyone, but it was the relationship between Elior and Jace that made me read it all in less than a day.
Everytime Elior let Jace in just a teensie bit more I was jumping up and down and screaming because that sweet boy deserves all the love.
Im extremely excited (and a bit nervous 😅) to see what happens in book 2 because that cliffhanger was a little heartbreaking 🥹 but I have the highest of hopes for Elior and Jace because this book was AMAZING!
March 22, 2026
I wanted to love this, I love the whole idea of the story but something was off for me. Nobody was allowed to spend time alone with the Vessel but suddenly we have a new guy that is allowed to have private walks with him everyday.. I didn’t believe the story I guess. Then we have Jace who seems like a massive creep & spends all his time as an undercover agent figuring out the best way to groom Elior. This poor kid has no idea about anything going on in the world, no idea about his own body, no idea about what he even likes but has been coerced into a relationship with a man that expects him to call him Daddy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another book to leave me speechless. I normally don't enjoy books so much with religious themes and what not but I've grown to love E. Baileus writing so of course i had to give this one a read. I devoured it! I absolutely loved Elior. Hes so sweet and innocent. So many times I wanted to cry for him. Luckily he finds Jace. The mouth on that man 😮💨 This does end on a cliffhanger but it doesnt feel empty like some cliffhangers have you feeling. I just know their HEA in the next book is going to beautiful.
December 14, 2025
an amazing read!
I devoured this book! Like within hours. The story, characters and scenes were so fast paced and interesting I couldn’t put it down! Ugh Elior was such a perfect cherub and you just wanted to love him forever. Eff his dad. Jace was in a rough position from the start because spoiler alert he was there on a job lol. But I can’t wait for book 2!!!! It had a cult! It had potential murders! It had daddy stuff! It had a cute little vessel! 10/10 loved!
I devoured this book! Like within hours. The story, characters and scenes were so fast paced and interesting I couldn’t put it down! Ugh Elior was such a perfect cherub and you just wanted to love him forever. Eff his dad. Jace was in a rough position from the start because spoiler alert he was there on a job lol. But I can’t wait for book 2!!!! It had a cult! It had potential murders! It had daddy stuff! It had a cute little vessel! 10/10 loved!
January 13, 2026
Hipnótico. Prohibido. SÚPER HOT.
Dios mío qué historia tan más oscura pero tan más adictiva.
Jace y Elior son ternurines cuando empiezan a sentir amor. La obsesión y la devoción de Jace es algo impactante de leer. Mi querido Elior es una cosa bellísima que solo quería proteger del mundo.😭
NECESITO SABER YA CÓMO TERMINA ESTA HISTORIA.
Dios mío qué historia tan más oscura pero tan más adictiva.
Jace y Elior son ternurines cuando empiezan a sentir amor. La obsesión y la devoción de Jace es algo impactante de leer. Mi querido Elior es una cosa bellísima que solo quería proteger del mundo.😭
NECESITO SABER YA CÓMO TERMINA ESTA HISTORIA.
December 22, 2025
A COMPLEX AND TWISTED READ!
This is a dark cult read that was SO RIVETING!! Please mind the triggers. Jace is under cover going into a cult where he meets Elior, the cult leaders son. These two, oh my, their moments are insane! Great read!
This is a dark cult read that was SO RIVETING!! Please mind the triggers. Jace is under cover going into a cult where he meets Elior, the cult leaders son. These two, oh my, their moments are insane! Great read!
March 17, 2026
I really liked the creepiness of the begining but the Daddy thing kind of broke that for me. I couldn't help but cringe at the end when Elior was running around calling for his "Daddy" in front of an audience :///
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
not-interested
December 12, 2025*sigh* if only I trusted duets. 😭
Maybe when the second book is released and all the safety info is available i might come back to this.
Maybe when the second book is released and all the safety info is available i might come back to this.
January 7, 2026
AMAZING NO WORDS CAN DESCRIBE. FIRST BOOK TO EVER MAKE ME FEEL SOMETHING🥰😍😍 FINISHED SO FAST
February 11, 2026
NOOOO COMO LO DEJAN AHIII
March 10, 2026
Perfecto. Sucio y perfecto
March 19, 2026
i’m actively crying
i feel so much for elior
and i hate jace right now
i feel so much for elior
and i hate jace right now
February 17, 2026
I must start this review mentionint that this has one of my favorite somnophilia scenes of the year in a book, hands down. I've read almost everything from this author so I knew this would be something I'd be into, but they keep surprising me at how much I enjoyed it overall.
Starting with the things that I believe could've been done better, in order to end on a positive note, is that at times I felt the story was convenient when it came to Jace's operation. There's also the petname, didn't work well for me and instead it felt cheesy so it made the dialogues where it was included feel unserious. Last thing is the daddy/boy dynamic. As much as I was into the idea, I think it could've been developed in a more natural way - even more so because the dialogue in the last chapter involving it felt cheesy and it didn't let me fully take the situation seriously.
Anyway, despite all of that I just had a really great time with the story. The first half was the best part imo. I really liked how both MCs were introduced to each other and to the reader. The pacing was another great thing, something was always happening so it was very entertaining. I think this works because of how most of the things taking place organically, despite its pacing being on the faster spectrum.
Now onto what I liked the most: the construction of the cult, the forbidden element and the dynamic between the couple. I thought the book did a great a job at presenting how scary the villain of the wtory was, the cult behaviour inside the community and the danger that surrounded both MCs.
About the couple, I really liked their evolution both individually and as a pairing. I found fascinating reading how Elior discovered new things and slowly realized that everything wasn't exactly as he thought. I also liked the small reveal about Jace's character. I honestly forgot to check the CWs again since I prefer surprises and don't have triggers, so I was stunned when the book disclosed more about Jace's intentions. I love imperfect characters and not-so-healthy dynamics so this book was just my type. I lived for the dark side of the main dynamic and I'm really hoping that part gets explored more in the next one.
Ultimately, this is a book on the heavier side that explores cult mentality, a forbidden relationship involving innocence and corruption, and an intriguing subplot about an infiltrate inside a dangerous place. I can't wait for book 2, it'll be one of my most anticipated releases of next year.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
Starting with the things that I believe could've been done better, in order to end on a positive note, is that at times I felt the story was convenient when it came to Jace's operation. There's also the petname, didn't work well for me and instead it felt cheesy so it made the dialogues where it was included feel unserious. Last thing is the daddy/boy dynamic. As much as I was into the idea, I think it could've been developed in a more natural way - even more so because the dialogue in the last chapter involving it felt cheesy and it didn't let me fully take the situation seriously.
Anyway, despite all of that I just had a really great time with the story. The first half was the best part imo. I really liked how both MCs were introduced to each other and to the reader. The pacing was another great thing, something was always happening so it was very entertaining. I think this works because of how most of the things taking place organically, despite its pacing being on the faster spectrum.
Now onto what I liked the most: the construction of the cult, the forbidden element and the dynamic between the couple. I thought the book did a great a job at presenting how scary the villain of the wtory was, the cult behaviour inside the community and the danger that surrounded both MCs.
About the couple, I really liked their evolution both individually and as a pairing. I found fascinating reading how Elior discovered new things and slowly realized that everything wasn't exactly as he thought. I also liked the small reveal about Jace's character. I honestly forgot to check the CWs again since I prefer surprises and don't have triggers, so I was stunned when the book disclosed more about Jace's intentions. I love imperfect characters and not-so-healthy dynamics so this book was just my type. I lived for the dark side of the main dynamic and I'm really hoping that part gets explored more in the next one.
Ultimately, this is a book on the heavier side that explores cult mentality, a forbidden relationship involving innocence and corruption, and an intriguing subplot about an infiltrate inside a dangerous place. I can't wait for book 2, it'll be one of my most anticipated releases of next year.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews