A Taste of Sin: Passion and Politics #2

Passion and Politics #2

by J.L. Seegars

A Taste of Sin is the stunningly emotional and dangerously sexy conclusion to the Passion and Politics duet.

Months after suffering a devastating heartbreak, Selene Taylor finds herself navigating the complexities of her new role as First Lady while longing for the two men her husband is determined not to let her have—Secret Service agents Callan Drake and Lance Beckham.

With their hearts on the line and threats pressing in from all sides, the forbidden trio is faced with the challenge of wading through the webs of lies and shadows of deceit to find their way back to each other. For good.

Genres: Why Choose, Romance

296 pages, Paperback

Published December 8, 2025

About the author

J.L. Seegars is a dedicated smut peddler and lifelong nerd who’s always had a love of words, storytelling and drama. When she isn’t writing messy and emotionally complex characters like the ones she grew up around, she’s watching reality TV, supporting her fellow authors by devouring their work or spending time with her husband and son.

Reviews

[Jahda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the creative flair and the twisted revelation at the end. I believe it simply demonstrated how vicious people can be in order to achieve their aims and increase their wealth. I like when authors put in the work and study to make a book unique. It's always fascinating to read about politics and administration via the lens of the author's art. Outside of the poly relationship the plot itself was strong. Aubrey and Jordan ain’t sh*t though.

[Melise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the last 5 star of the year but we shall see. JL did everything she needed to do, I will say there were some frustrating moments with Selene but I still loved the way it all came together. Idk if it was an official diagnosis but Selene def gave on the spectrum a lot which led to some of my frustrations. Like one she was always having these antagonistic discussions with Aubrey with no sense of self preservation. Like the man hates you and you decide now is the time to give a speech about his affair partner?? Like cmon we two books in and mamas can’t fight she ain’t keep a knife on her nothing just surprised by Aubrey’s aggression at every turn. Loved how supportive all the families were, loved Cal & Beck down and I’m happy they got a HEA. I was only mildly taken aback by the depths of deception on Aubrey’s part but I said it in my first review that he was DESPERATE to sit in the Oval Office so nothing was too farfetched or devious because of his hunger for power. Wish his Mama and daddy could’ve faced some consequences but overall this was a top tier experience

[Asia Levine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is unfortunate. I couldn’t wait to read this on release day only to feel it was nothing like book 1 in the series. I found myself skipping pages just to get to the end, I almost DNF. Now that I’ve finished I’m not sure I get the point of book 2. What was revealed I feel was obvious in book 1. I just feel this went from a romance with aspects of thriller/mystery to was the romance in the room with us?!?! It wasn’t a bad written story and there were aspects of grieving that gave the story some depth. As a mood reader it just wasn’t what I expected and I feel like the 2 books in a duo-logy could be considered 2 different genres and that’s weird and not what I was in the mood for.

[MJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

I struggled through this one. It’s was very different compared to the 1st book, leaning more into the mystery genre. Not really what I expected. It reminded me of an episode of Scandal, but boring. I found myself skimming over parts that were over descriptive and repetitive. The story was wrapped up well with enough closure.

[Asharia Mosley · Rating 5 out of 5]

no notes! this was PERFECT!! i absolutely lovedddd

[LexRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

I pushed through… This one lacked the romance I would have wanted to see. I get forbidden romance but that they barely saw each other interacted for half of the book. It was just okay..

[Kirby Laguerre · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m honestly conflicted with how I feel about this book. I still enjoyed it overall but much less than I did the original. I think this just fell flat for me. I had two main issues: 1) I don’t know how I feel about the main person “pulling the strings” being someone who doesn’t appear until nearly the end of the book. As I was reading, I was trying to figure out who was behind everything and for it to be someone who we never even heard of was underwhelming to say the least. 2) It still also isn’t clear to me where Aubrey’s hatred of Selene came from and when their marriage really started to go south. Separately, whenever there’s an element of “why choose?” in a novel, it really needs to make sense to me/be justified and I’m not sure I was sold on her being with both Cal & Beck in either of the books.

[Britt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I’m sad to see this series come and go as quickly as it did. Which is why I was very intentional about taking my time with this. Selene, Cal and Beck’s love reached new heights in this book they were given the opportunity to be in each other’s space and just exist and I loved that. I really enjoyed seeing Beck’s growth in therapy, I appreciated the 3 separate epilogues that were given at the end from all 3 povs. There were a few things that kept this from being a 5 star read for me and that’s ok. Overall this was one of my most highly anticipated releases for the end of 2025 it did not disappoint. I’ve recommended this series to anyone that would listen and I’ll continue to do so.

[Jai · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to jump into the next and finally book.

Boy it did not disappoint. The way Selene tore Audrey ass up.. PERIODDDDSSDD.

I will say I wish the book was longer. I need more scene with Cal and Beck. I wanted to see the relationship that I know grew beautifully with the twin girls. I WANTED TO SEE SELENE WHOOP THAT FOSTER MOTHER’s ASS!!!! The ending was chef’s fucking kiss. And I that time you did yo OWN child dirty you want to sit there and cry like a bitch?!?? Cause CRYING is crazy… after ALL the shit you did you wanna cry?? Audrey… really? You might as well be a sista with all the crying. But Selene had the feminine rage on her side and I was eating every second of it.

[ShaTorey · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ This one is tough for me because I LOVED book 1 (outside of the cliff hanger). This one leaned more into mystery/suspense, which I didn’t mind but I think the romance was put to the back burner at times. Especially given this is a poly romance book. The plot twist was WILDDDD. The ending made up for the slow pieces in between. Cal and Beck are still my faves. I honestly wish we could have gotten more (they didn’t get enough smut time to me).

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️The mystery/suspense was great. I love how everything connected from the first book. Aubrey got what was coming to him but I wish everyone else had suffered more. I did want more of the romance aspect though. I didn’t get to enjoy them in love as much as I wanted, especially considering how much time they were able to spend together.

[JaAsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ This second book was slower moving than the first. For as slow as it started, the plot twist and quick resolution was somewhat jarring. I was happy to see the trio get there happily ever after.

[Lindsey G · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up - full review to come but wowowow WOW

[KarynReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a 3.75 for me. The story picked up a bit at 81%.

[k · Rating 3 out of 5]

This wasn’t the sequel I wanted it to be. I’m a bit disappointed given how much I liked the first book. I felt that the story fell a little flat in this one and I definitely felt that the characters lost their momentum from the first book.

The spice seriously declined which was disappointing. 🌶️

I did like the twist about 75% in which helped me reconcile some of the plot that I didn’t like from the first book. It made it worthwhile in the end.

And lastly I wanted more epilogue! The ending felt rushed and abrupt.

Rating 3/5⭐️

[Kaytleen.n · Rating 2 out of 5]

not what im into but well written
weird dynamic

[♋ManiLovesBooks♋ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ending Corruption with a Bang

🛑SPOLIERS🛑
⭐️: 4/5

A conclusion to an epic duet with lots of love and corruption.

I can't believe I didnt read this duet sooner. I kept putting it off but I am glad I read it.

I was reluctant to start the second book right away because of reviews. But as always reading the book yourself is the way to go.

Let's me say this: I HATE AUBREY!?!?!

That man was terrible from the first book to the second. As we all know politics is corrupt. Nothing surprises me when it comes to rich people pulling the strings of politicians because we all knows it happens behind the scenes. Also, using different events just to get more power is not new at all.

But to have your own child killed 🥺. You are the scum of the world. I knew from the beginning something was off about him. Him lack of care for his wife and the emotion he didnt show when it came to his son. Plus I knew the other people like Coredlia and the cop were in on everything. Seegars adding a rich person pulling all the strings was just the mastermind we needed. To be honest we see it alot today.

I was glad everyone in the end got there's but I wanted them to suffer a little bit more. At first I thought the things going on were a little over stimulated but then I thought this is politics we never know as citizens what is going on.

I just wish to have seen a couple of the people in jail. But as we have all seen power and money doesn't result in jail time.

The book was over all well done. I do wish we got to see the corruption happen a little more and revelation happen early on in the book. Everything just happened at the end like the last book.

For Jordan, sorry my ADHD, is exposing itself, did she really think Selene was going to feel bad for her. She was complicit in everything. She would have been perfectly fine with everything if she didnt get on the bad side of things. I hated that she died but when you mix yourself up with the wrong people unfortunately it will eventually end you when you are no longer of use.

I was glad to see Cal, Beck, and Selene get there happy ending. They deserved it after everything they went through. Especially Selene who never seems to recieve a break.

In the end they adopted two teenagers who have connection to Selene. I wish she and Beck didnt experience the loss they endured but in the end the memories help and they found love again.

To me the book showcased the love they had for each other without them always been in each other's presence. Thats what I loved the most.

I would definitely recommend this book. It showcases alot of what we endure in America specifically Black woman.

Another good read by Seegars I hope to see this as a show in the future!

[llenna’s library · Rating 3 out of 5]

We wrapped up Selene Taylor’s story, and while I’m ultimately glad she gets her happily ever after, this sequel didn’t hit the way book one did for me.

Months after a devastating heartbreak, Selene is navigating life as First Lady while still longing for Callan and Beck. As threats and secrets unravel, the story shifts toward uncovering lies and political intrigue rather than leaning into the romance that originally sucked me in.

My biggest struggle with this book was the imbalance between mystery and romance. This felt far more like a political thriller than a romance, and while the plot itself was solid, I missed the tension, chemistry, and smut that made the first book so compelling.

Selene remains controlled and constrained for much of the story, and I found myself wishing she’d step fully into the powerful, unapologetic woman I know she could be much earlier on. I wanted her to be more and to claim that strength sooner rather than later. The relationship between Selene, Beck, and Cal is still a highlight. Their connection is amazing, and I just wish we had more time with them together.

Overall, A Taste of Sin is a decent conclusion that ties up the storyline, but it didn’t live up to the intensity and romance of book one for me. If you’re invested in Selene’s journey and want closure, it’s worth finishing but go in expecting more mystery than passion.

[Zoe Foster · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I gave the first book 5⭐️ I rated this one was a 3/5⭐️
I would say I’m content with the way things ended but not necessarily satisfied.

Now concerning this book particularly I rated it 3⭐️ it didn’t give as much romance as the first book. This one was more so villain focused, problem solving mixed in with a little Romeo & Juliet. We spent 80% of the book being stressed! So I was a little saddened the ending wasn’t as savory as hoped. It felt rushed but at the same time it was a HEA so I can’t really complain can I?

I also wasn’t the biggest fan of the time jumps or layout for both books. For example it would be Selene’s POV along with the presence and/or involvement of the mmc’s. As a reader I’m expecting some sort of continuation or insight of the mmc’s thoughts or actions. Instead of just moving along allow for some type of acknowledgement. It would’ve gave more depth to the books & readers, especially after an important scene.

[AMBER · Rating 3 out of 5]

December Read: A Taste of Sin by J.L. Seegars ⭐️⭐️⭐️. A Taste of Sin is a bold, emotionally charged, and dangerously sexy finale to the Passion and Politics duet. After a brutal heartbreak, Selene Taylor is thrust into life as First Lady—powerful, scrutinized, and deeply unfulfilled. What she wants most are the two men her husband is determined to keep from her: Secret Service agents Callan Drake and Lance Beckham. The stakes are high. Hearts are exposed. Desire is forbidden. As threats close in and secrets unravel, Selene, Callan, and Lance are forced to confront betrayal, loyalty, and the cost of choosing love in a world built on control and deception.
This conclusion doesn’t play it safe. It’s intense, messy, sensual, and emotionally satisfying. If you’ve been invested in this trio, the payoff hits hard—and earns it.

[Dymon Knapps · Rating 4 out of 5]

“ Will it work”? WTF?🤬

Angry doesn’t even begin to cover it.
I knew Aubrey was evil but he turned out to be Satan. I suspected something was off, but not to this extent. The most terrifying part of this story was the idea of being blissfully in love while your partner secretly despises you. Selene had no idea how Aubrey truly felt about her until the very end.

While the twist was deeply disturbing, it was also the most captivating part of the book. Unfortunately, the rest didn’t quite live up to it. We barely got to explore the relationship dynamic between Cal, Beck, and Selene, and the revenge plot fell short. After everything Selene endured publicly, I expected the revenge to be just as visible.

The epilogue also disappointed me, as it felt more focused on Cal and Beck’s relationship with each other rather than all three of them. One bright spot, though, was Monique and Selene’s friendship. Monique was hilarious.

Overall, I enjoyed the series as a whole, but I can’t help wishing the ending hadn’t felt so rushed.

[LaTosha Webber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good but long

I understand the build out, but if this was going to be a two book series I would have preferred it have been more back and forth. Sort of trading blows. As it’s written it was good but honestly this didn’t need to be two books. I would have like to have seen Aubrey keeping her close so he could emotional torture them in plane sight so we could have seen on page the real him. And let his ego have been the reason for the picking up the breadcrumbs they needed. A lot of the day to day sneaking around and the introduction of the younger side characters didn’t add anything to the story for me. If it had all been sort of spy games then I could see making it two books. If I would have cut and run before the end this is 2-3 stars. So I’m going middle of the road at 3.5 because the end was exactly what I was hoping the entirety of the book would be.

[ikram · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t in a reading slump, I just needed my favourite author to release a book.

SPOILERS:

First off I wanna say I suspected Audrey was behind her kidnapping, their sons shooting and everything else evil this whole time. I want my medal immediately. I can smell evil white men from a mile away.

Everytime I read a new book of this author I am always in new of how she describes and puts raw emotions into words. This is a true talent.

I felt like Cal was so much softer in this book especially how he took care of Beck and his nightmares.

Honestly the ending was perfect.

Imani and Isis are perfect for Selene and Beck. And I loved seeing Hunter, Riley and Rae making an appearance.

Urgh i am always gutted when I finish one of JL Seeger’s book, cause what can I read next!!

[Leyah · Rating 5 out of 5]

My emotions were all over the place with this book. In book one, I didn't like Aubrey. In book two, that dislike turned to HATE. How could he!? I don't want to spoil it for future readers even if this doesn't get read. I love when authors can still keep me entertained in the second book by keeping the thrill and hype from book one. I did not expect the ending to go down like that. All I could do was scream for Selene for being so proud of her. In book two, there are a few new characters and they all served a purpose. I couldn't put this book down and I loved every moment of it. An easy 10/10 read. I wish there was a third book.

[Parker | simplybibliophiles · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am so sad.
This is the lowest I have EVER rated a J.L. Seegars book, but I guess there is a first time for everything.
The Illusion of Power WAS IT. It had everything, and I was hooked from beginning to the very last page. Coupled with the cliffhanger at the end, I had such high expectations for Book #2.

Welp, as much as it pains me, I was absolutely underwhelmed the entire time by A Taste of Sin. I felt like we did not get enough Selene, Cal, and Beck. And while I absolutely appreciated my girl Selene getting her lick back...that is not why we were here. And by the time we got to the end, I just felt like this was not what I came here for.

[Danielle Nielson, Book Therapist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Book Therapist Reviews

This was just as heavy of a read as book 1 was, maybe even more. The type of story that makes you feel the weight of decisions and what happens when we see the worst sides of humanity. The love and devotion, as well as the opposites displayed by the villains (and there are plenty), stands in contrast to a hefty dose of v!olence and h@te. There are some big twists and turns, and things that will steal your breath in the worst ways. But know there is some healing at the end that makes this roller coaster worth it.

[Brittany Kitchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well damn 🤯.

This was an intensely wild ride that I am sad is over.

A Taste of Sin was an epic conclusion to the Passion and Politics duology. Loved every sick and depraved moment of it.

The hill I shall die on is needing J.L. Seegars and her pen in a room with Shonda Rhimes to give me a Scandal meets How to Get Away with Murder-esque show. Who wouldn't love a Shondaland thursdays revival with a touch more open door spice?

Selene, Cal, and Beck showed me I deserve the world, the moon, and the stars. I shan't stop until I recieve them all.

[Reem · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was everything I anticipated & more! J.L. Seegars did not disappoint!

The politics, the drama, the spice, the plot twists...all of it had me hooked, I couldn't put the book down. Every time I thought the author couldn't possibly have any more plot twists up her sleeve, she threw another one at me. Every time it had me jaw dropped on the edge of my seat going "ain't no mf way"

I loved everything about this book & I hate that it's over already!

[Taishia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Power, Lies, and Revenge

Seline is forced to live in the shadows while trying to hold onto her relationship with Beck and Cal, surrounded by lies, power, and manipulation driven by the ruthless pull of the Oval Office. As the story turns chilling and one unthinkable secret no one saw coming is revealed, the stakes rise even higher. When Seline finally uncovers the truth and gets her revenge, it’s deeply satisfying. Sin truly tastes sweeter when revenge is served.

[Breanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better Than Book 1

I’ve seen a lot of mixed reviews about this book, but for me, there’s nothing mixed about it. This book is EXCELLENT. I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this and loved it even more than Book 1, which I also enjoyed. This is Why Choose mixed with Scandal. The lies, the twists and turns, the deceit and deception, it was just so good. J.L. put her foot into this book! She just continues to get better and better.

4.75 ⭐️