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Hush, Little Baby
Charlie Palmer was only supposed to stay for an hour.
Color a picture. Watch a movie. Pretend he wasn’t falling apart.
Instead, he fell asleep… and woke up in the arms of a man who decided he belonged to him.
Nikolaus Makris doesn’t do temporary.
He doesn’t do casual.
And when he finds Charlie alone in the littles’ room—soft, hurting, and unprotected—he makes a decision that will change both their lives forever.
Charlie thinks he’s being taken.
Nikolaus knows he’s being rescued.
Too bad Charlie hasn’t realized it yet.
But Nikolaus is patient.
And very, very good at taking care of what’s his.
Hush, little baby… you’re home now.
A dark MM age-play romance featuring a possessive Daddy, forced proximity, emotional caretaking, and a vulnerable little who never expected to be chosen.
Color a picture. Watch a movie. Pretend he wasn’t falling apart.
Instead, he fell asleep… and woke up in the arms of a man who decided he belonged to him.
Nikolaus Makris doesn’t do temporary.
He doesn’t do casual.
And when he finds Charlie alone in the littles’ room—soft, hurting, and unprotected—he makes a decision that will change both their lives forever.
Charlie thinks he’s being taken.
Nikolaus knows he’s being rescued.
Too bad Charlie hasn’t realized it yet.
But Nikolaus is patient.
And very, very good at taking care of what’s his.
Hush, little baby… you’re home now.
A dark MM age-play romance featuring a possessive Daddy, forced proximity, emotional caretaking, and a vulnerable little who never expected to be chosen.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2026
About the author
E. Baileu
12 books152 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 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 13, 2026
Charlie + Niko
Chronic illness rep | Age gap | Daddy/boy
Didn't love the style of age play in this but I knew it was a risk going in so not using that to rate. But I will most definitely judge for using "boycunt" and only using spit the first time you have sex with a very vulnerable chronically ill person who also tells you it's too much and you don't stop. Yeah its a dark romance but there's limits. And as a chronically ill person myself this was especially yuck.
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Chronically ill boy
Age gap - Charlie is 25/26, Nikolaus is 43
Daddy and baby boy
Morally gray
Boy embarassed by his body
Age play
Size difference - first time Charlie has felt small
Kidnapping
Sucking daddy's thumb for comfort
Good boy
Washes him in the tub
Caretaking
Makes him eat and drink
Handjob from daddy while his right hand man is seated right by them on the same plane
ABDL (diapers, onsies, bottles, wetting)
First time Charlie feels safe to call Niko 'daddy' is around 70%
Degredation (slut, cumslut)
Non con/dub con between MCs
Humiliation
Accidental watersports
Hands free 💦
Touch him and die
Strict roles
Warnings/icks:
Chronic illness (unidentified)
Unhelpful doctors
Kidnapping between MCs
Panic attack from kidnapping
Stress induced little space
"Boycunt" 🤢
First time they have anal there's only spit for lube and very minimal prep - Charlie cries he cant take it and Niko doesnt stop and uses him like a toy
Kidnapping by side characters, they strip charlie down and there's threats of rape but it doesnt happen, they do hurt him though (they pay with their lives)
Betrayal from side character (see below)
BIG SPOILER BELOW
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Constantine is the one behind the kidnapping
Chronic illness rep | Age gap | Daddy/boy
Didn't love the style of age play in this but I knew it was a risk going in so not using that to rate. But I will most definitely judge for using "boycunt" and only using spit the first time you have sex with a very vulnerable chronically ill person who also tells you it's too much and you don't stop. Yeah its a dark romance but there's limits. And as a chronically ill person myself this was especially yuck.
⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists
Tropes/content:
Chronically ill boy
Age gap - Charlie is 25/26, Nikolaus is 43
Daddy and baby boy
Morally gray
Boy embarassed by his body
Age play
Size difference - first time Charlie has felt small
Kidnapping
Sucking daddy's thumb for comfort
Good boy
Washes him in the tub
Caretaking
Makes him eat and drink
Handjob from daddy while his right hand man is seated right by them on the same plane
ABDL (diapers, onsies, bottles, wetting)
First time Charlie feels safe to call Niko 'daddy' is around 70%
Degredation (slut, cumslut)
Non con/dub con between MCs
Humiliation
Accidental watersports
Hands free 💦
Touch him and die
Strict roles
Warnings/icks:
Chronic illness (unidentified)
Unhelpful doctors
Kidnapping between MCs
Panic attack from kidnapping
Stress induced little space
"Boycunt" 🤢
First time they have anal there's only spit for lube and very minimal prep - Charlie cries he cant take it and Niko doesnt stop and uses him like a toy
Kidnapping by side characters, they strip charlie down and there's threats of rape but it doesnt happen, they do hurt him though (they pay with their lives)
Betrayal from side character (see below)
BIG SPOILER BELOW
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Constantine is the one behind the kidnapping
July 9, 2026
2.3 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
i was so excited for this release but this book just served nothing.
i think i could get past how rushed the beginning of the book was if there was any kind of buildup of their relationship after, but i just felt nothing between them. the pacing was just way too fast and there were so many moving parts and i think it made their chemistry really suffer.
i did really like the chronic illness rep as well as the age play/abdl aspects of this story. but i also think charlie spent a little too much time in little space so it wasn’t easy constantly being in his pov which was a majority of the book.
everything about niko was also kind of ambiguous and we really didn’t get to learn much about him. i honestly felt more drawn to his right-hand man who unfortunately turned out being the bad guy. bummer.
also that third act started way too late and finished too fast. gave me major whiplash.
i don’t know, just wasn’t a win the way so many other books by this author have been for me. but i’m excited to see more age play stories from them in the future!
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
i was so excited for this release but this book just served nothing.
i think i could get past how rushed the beginning of the book was if there was any kind of buildup of their relationship after, but i just felt nothing between them. the pacing was just way too fast and there were so many moving parts and i think it made their chemistry really suffer.
i did really like the chronic illness rep as well as the age play/abdl aspects of this story. but i also think charlie spent a little too much time in little space so it wasn’t easy constantly being in his pov which was a majority of the book.
everything about niko was also kind of ambiguous and we really didn’t get to learn much about him. i honestly felt more drawn to his right-hand man who unfortunately turned out being the bad guy. bummer.
also that third act started way too late and finished too fast. gave me major whiplash.
i don’t know, just wasn’t a win the way so many other books by this author have been for me. but i’m excited to see more age play stories from them in the future!
June 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I did not know age play was a kink or more so how deep it could go , buuut E unlocked a kink and I ate it up! Charlie and Nikolaus come from completely different worlds and all Charlie wants it to be taken care of but also to not be a burden. In walks Niko, and as much as Charlie tries to fight it (self esteem/ confidence issues) the surrender is BEAUTIFUL! At one point my heart ached for Niko because it seemed like he had been searching forever and he was afraid he would ever have the person he needed/ wanted. To go from barely surviving, to living a full and happy life, I’m so happy these two got exactly what they needed. I am obsessed with the bracelets (you gotta read to find out) and I love the hint of found family that we also get. Nikolaus is FEARCE when it comes to Charlie, and honestly Charlie deserves that and more.
I did not know age play was a kink or more so how deep it could go , buuut E unlocked a kink and I ate it up! Charlie and Nikolaus come from completely different worlds and all Charlie wants it to be taken care of but also to not be a burden. In walks Niko, and as much as Charlie tries to fight it (self esteem/ confidence issues) the surrender is BEAUTIFUL! At one point my heart ached for Niko because it seemed like he had been searching forever and he was afraid he would ever have the person he needed/ wanted. To go from barely surviving, to living a full and happy life, I’m so happy these two got exactly what they needed. I am obsessed with the bracelets (you gotta read to find out) and I love the hint of found family that we also get. Nikolaus is FEARCE when it comes to Charlie, and honestly Charlie deserves that and more.
July 7, 2026
This is exactly the kind of romance that keeps me coming back.
July 8, 2026
When I saw that this author came out with a new book, so I looked at the warnings and ran with it. Age Play doesn't bother me, but I normally don't read a lot of ABDL as it never feels... quite right? The few books I've read with it almost felt forced, if that makes sense?
THIS?! THIS THOUGH?
MY GOD. I just wanted to reach through this book, grab Charlie and hug the ever-loving shit out of him. Charlie going to a kink club, not for the sex or to find a partner, but simply to exist in the Little's room for just a bit was so damn painful. Just trying to get a moment away from the constant illness the doctors don't seem to care about, the drowning debt, and life in general, my god that is so relatable. Although his methods of capturing (heh) Charlie's attention were a bit... different, Nikolaus was absolutely perfect for him. The way Charlie would just melt and let Niko eventually take care of him? Perfection.
I loved Charlie and every single broken piece of him and I'm so glad he found his family through Niko, and the two women who accepted him with welcoming arms.
Although I'm super DUPER cranky with a certain someone because I adored him at first, I'm glad it wrapped up like it did.
Also, although I always want a firm HEA and everything to be fixed for all the characters because real life sucks, I get why the author chose not to go that route. My partner has been passed off by so many doctors, while we just want answers. He's just been labeled with "chronic fatigue syndrome," because while they all want to throw meds at him, no one truly seems to want to find out what's causing all these issues and it's been an absolute fight just to get a damn MRI around here.
So, someone stepping up, paying off your debt, helping you get a doctor on your side to figure out what's wrong with you, or at least to give some relief from the symptoms?
DREAMS RIGHT THERE.
THIS?! THIS THOUGH?
MY GOD. I just wanted to reach through this book, grab Charlie and hug the ever-loving shit out of him. Charlie going to a kink club, not for the sex or to find a partner, but simply to exist in the Little's room for just a bit was so damn painful. Just trying to get a moment away from the constant illness the doctors don't seem to care about, the drowning debt, and life in general, my god that is so relatable. Although his methods of capturing (heh) Charlie's attention were a bit... different, Nikolaus was absolutely perfect for him. The way Charlie would just melt and let Niko eventually take care of him? Perfection.
I loved Charlie and every single broken piece of him and I'm so glad he found his family through Niko, and the two women who accepted him with welcoming arms.
Although I'm super DUPER cranky with a certain someone because I adored him at first, I'm glad it wrapped up like it did.
Also, although I always want a firm HEA and everything to be fixed for all the characters because real life sucks, I get why the author chose not to go that route. My partner has been passed off by so many doctors, while we just want answers. He's just been labeled with "chronic fatigue syndrome," because while they all want to throw meds at him, no one truly seems to want to find out what's causing all these issues and it's been an absolute fight just to get a damn MRI around here.
So, someone stepping up, paying off your debt, helping you get a doctor on your side to figure out what's wrong with you, or at least to give some relief from the symptoms?
DREAMS RIGHT THERE.
July 16, 2026
My first big/little book. I'm not saying I'll be keenly jumping into more of them but the author offered a darker side to this world and I'm not complaining because I'm here for those books/characters.
The writing was solid. Nicely edited. The character development wasn't too bad. Because Nikolaus is a morally bankrupt character, he wants what he wants, doesn't care how he gets it, and at no point did the author apologise for him, loved that. Also, for those who need to know, there is non-consent in this book. Again, darker book.
Charlie was sweet, definitely a teary character but has a chronic condition which is never fun for people with chronic illness. Especially when you're deemed 'too hard' within the medical system.
Blog review at-
The writing was solid. Nicely edited. The character development wasn't too bad. Because Nikolaus is a morally bankrupt character, he wants what he wants, doesn't care how he gets it, and at no point did the author apologise for him, loved that. Also, for those who need to know, there is non-consent in this book. Again, darker book.
Charlie was sweet, definitely a teary character but has a chronic condition which is never fun for people with chronic illness. Especially when you're deemed 'too hard' within the medical system.
Blog review at-
August 9, 2026
Not sure how I got here, but I didn’t hate it. It definitely could’ve been longer and so many things were kept very vague — Niko’s life, especially. We didn’t get much out of Niko as person or who he was outside of the Daddy/little dynamic.
As someone who is not versed in this kink at all (and as someone who will be staring at herself a long time in the mirror after reading this book), I’m not sure how accurate the dynamic in here is, but it sure was interesting to read! Some of the sex was dubcon, very nearly bordering on noncon, so please be careful of that!
I can’t fully say I loved or hated this book. I feel like we barely got to know the characters, even though we spent a significant amount of time with them. As someone who has two chronic illnesses herself, I was definitely endeared toward Charlie, and I like that in some aspects, he wasn’t completely helpless. But Niko was a complete blank slate to me. It felt like this man did not have a personality outside of the Daddy dynamic that he had with Charlie and so I never really found myself that enthralled by their romance.
And Charlie’s spent so much of this book in his “little” mindset, that it was really hard to get a read on him as a character sometimes because he wasn’t in an adult mindset. It seems that the author went to great lengths to explore this dynamic and to write it accurately, and so if that’s your thing, I’m sure this is the book for you! If you’re looking for fleshed out characters and a romance that isn’t instalove, this probably isn’t the book for you.
That being said, I really enjoyed the writing. I found myself really liking the prose, and there was an element to this book that I don’t want to spoil, but it really surprised me. I honestly didn’t really see that coming, and I think that’s just a testament to the author.
So while this book isn’t really for me, I liked it enough to want to read more by the author!
As someone who is not versed in this kink at all (and as someone who will be staring at herself a long time in the mirror after reading this book), I’m not sure how accurate the dynamic in here is, but it sure was interesting to read! Some of the sex was dubcon, very nearly bordering on noncon, so please be careful of that!
I can’t fully say I loved or hated this book. I feel like we barely got to know the characters, even though we spent a significant amount of time with them. As someone who has two chronic illnesses herself, I was definitely endeared toward Charlie, and I like that in some aspects, he wasn’t completely helpless. But Niko was a complete blank slate to me. It felt like this man did not have a personality outside of the Daddy dynamic that he had with Charlie and so I never really found myself that enthralled by their romance.
And Charlie’s spent so much of this book in his “little” mindset, that it was really hard to get a read on him as a character sometimes because he wasn’t in an adult mindset. It seems that the author went to great lengths to explore this dynamic and to write it accurately, and so if that’s your thing, I’m sure this is the book for you! If you’re looking for fleshed out characters and a romance that isn’t instalove, this probably isn’t the book for you.
That being said, I really enjoyed the writing. I found myself really liking the prose, and there was an element to this book that I don’t want to spoil, but it really surprised me. I honestly didn’t really see that coming, and I think that’s just a testament to the author.
So while this book isn’t really for me, I liked it enough to want to read more by the author!
July 31, 2026
I had ups and downs with this book - my frequent updates make that evident. Sometimes I thought oh no this age play is too deep but actually in the end it was sweet. Somehow Niko’s and Baby's relationship became believable even though it was instalove and there was a distinct lack of lube.
The only reason I'm not freaking out about certain scenes (bodily fluids) is because Charlie (Baby) had a chronic illness and that IMO contributed.
Niko was suitably dominant, ruthless when it mattered and really caring. He appeared stunned and appreciative of his good fortune in finding his boy. I guess when your heart desire becomes real it takes more than a moment to sink in.
Charlie deserved his HEA. His life was unbearable before Niko came into his life. Chronic illness which was undiagnosed and thus difficult to manage, drowning in debt and sinking too fast to swim. Charlie was treading water and Niko gave him a life preserver, dry clothes and purpose.
The only reason I'm not freaking out about certain scenes (bodily fluids) is because Charlie (Baby) had a chronic illness and that IMO contributed.
Niko was suitably dominant, ruthless when it mattered and really caring. He appeared stunned and appreciative of his good fortune in finding his boy. I guess when your heart desire becomes real it takes more than a moment to sink in.
Charlie deserved his HEA. His life was unbearable before Niko came into his life. Chronic illness which was undiagnosed and thus difficult to manage, drowning in debt and sinking too fast to swim. Charlie was treading water and Niko gave him a life preserver, dry clothes and purpose.
July 4, 2026
4.6 stars
July 5, 2026
Wow what a fabulous read! Honestly DD/lb and the whole daddy / little trope is not usually something I gravitate to, but this was so well done that I am definitely open to reading more of this genre. That being said, there are a TON of triggers in this book so take a look at the list the author details at the beginning. This book starts with our H (Nikolaus) kidnapping a little (Charlie), so if that lack of consent is not for you, maybe pass on this book 😂. I absolutely loved how "little" Charlie truly was - the author made it so clearly not an "act" or something he easily slips in and out of. Being "little" is truly what he is. And Nikolaus was the BEST daddy! Super protective and obsessed with his little - a hard exterior of a man who nobody would dare mess with but super soft and caring for Charlie.
DD/lb
Daddy
Diaper wearing
Medical mystery illness
Mafia
Kidnapping
Betrayal (not main characters)
Murder
DD/lb
Daddy
Diaper wearing
Medical mystery illness
Mafia
Kidnapping
Betrayal (not main characters)
Murder
July 20, 2026
This was another first for me and I loved the discovery of it. This was a (big) age gap, Daddy/little dark mm romance. There were moments where I did consider not finishing but I was completely invested in the chronic illness / caregiver aspect and the fact that I loved that Nico was of Greek heritage instead of the usual Italian or Russian mafia background. It gave the story a refreshing twist and made it stand out from so many other dark mafia romances. It was a welcome change that added something fresh to the plot.
I would have loved a bit more background on the characters. At times the story felt a little rushed, and I found myself wanting more depth and quieter moments to really connect with them.
I would have loved a bit more background on the characters. At times the story felt a little rushed, and I found myself wanting more depth and quieter moments to really connect with them.
July 31, 2026
Dark romance combined with intense age regression play? E. Baileu did something wild here and it TOTALLY PAYED OFF! Sweet bb Charlie is a BROKEN BOY IN NEED who desperately deserves a daddy to care for him. Niko is determined to be that caring Daddy whether Charlie accepts or not… quite literally 👀😈. This is a story where you if you can suspend reality and enjoy a little dub con… you will absolutely fall in love with Charlie and Niko. I know I did! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 9, 2026
I knew I’d eat this book right up!! Charlie and Niko are adorable!! Despite their rocky start I fell in love with their version of falling in love! Daddy ABDL will always be one of my favourite tropes and I can’t wait to read book 2!
Also that plot twist nearly broke my neck!!! I was NOT expecting that to happen!!
6/5 stars 🌟 no crumbs left!
Also that plot twist nearly broke my neck!!! I was NOT expecting that to happen!!
6/5 stars 🌟 no crumbs left!
July 13, 2026
This was a very different kind of age play from my nom , but it was a fun and funny read at the same time I love the characters . Hate that Charlie is plagued by illness and I hate Constantine for what he did 😞😞 I love the all kidnapping kinda my kink and I'm happy they ended up safe and okay . Overall I love the read 😍
Did Not Finish
July 6, 2026DNF @ 34%
Nothing at all against the writing style or author…I was curious about age play, turns out it’s not for me
Nothing at all against the writing style or author…I was curious about age play, turns out it’s not for me
July 8, 2026
Age play isn't really my thing, but I do love all the caretaking it comes with 💗 I wanted to have Charlie in my lap and hug him tightly throughout the whole book 😭💗
July 21, 2026
This book in theory sounded great. But when I read it, made me feel extremely uncomfortable and the spicey scene was just gross….and I’m not a prude I really enjoy spicey time in the books I read but this one was awful. The right hand man was predictable I saw that coming close to the start. Look I finished it because I ain’t no quitter 🤣 and I’m glad it worked out but I won’t be reading book 2. If dubcon is your thing I’m sure you’ll enjoy but.
Read
June 27, 2026THIS BOOK YALL!
Charlie's been dealing with an unknown illness for years and his only escape is the k!nk club, where he met Nikolaus. Met might be a strong word as Nikolaus kidnapped Charlie to give him the world.
Let me preface this by saying that I am not a dark romance girlie and only pick up this book because ya girl got curious about the book tropes.
I went into this blind with no expectations and with an open mind.
Characters, I love Charlie. He's been dealing with life and it was not kind to him. I want to be his friend. He's been hurting and yet still stood strong despite it all. I was initially indifferent with Nikolaus. Like I get it, here comes the big hulking man who's morally gray and will do everything in his power to make it right but it was just eh for me.
Plot, it was okay in a way that it's not that dark that I expected it to be. I do appreciate the author warning us in the beginning and handling the age play w/ ABDL. That honestly was made me curious about this book. The relationship was gray at best but if you take the whole kidnapping portion, it was kinda sweet. And you cannot help but root for Charlie to get his happy ending after all he's been through.
This book was a quick read, and def an acquired taste.
Charlie's been dealing with an unknown illness for years and his only escape is the k!nk club, where he met Nikolaus. Met might be a strong word as Nikolaus kidnapped Charlie to give him the world.
Let me preface this by saying that I am not a dark romance girlie and only pick up this book because ya girl got curious about the book tropes.
I went into this blind with no expectations and with an open mind.
Characters, I love Charlie. He's been dealing with life and it was not kind to him. I want to be his friend. He's been hurting and yet still stood strong despite it all. I was initially indifferent with Nikolaus. Like I get it, here comes the big hulking man who's morally gray and will do everything in his power to make it right but it was just eh for me.
Plot, it was okay in a way that it's not that dark that I expected it to be. I do appreciate the author warning us in the beginning and handling the age play w/ ABDL. That honestly was made me curious about this book. The relationship was gray at best but if you take the whole kidnapping portion, it was kinda sweet. And you cannot help but root for Charlie to get his happy ending after all he's been through.
This book was a quick read, and def an acquired taste.
July 3, 2026
This is a 4.5 star read for me. I wish we had half stars!
Something I seek out in the MM books I'm reading lately is variety. Not that there's anything wrong with this, but personally I can't strictly read, say, hockey books, or small town romances, or only fantasy smut. I need a little of everything. And I want to be challenged. I want a dramatic mix of light and dark. I want to discover new-to-me kinks, see how monster-sex works (hey, I'm curious!) and read how authors handle taboo topics in these novels.
A couple months back I read There's Something in the Water and was promptly hooked on E. Baileu's storytelling voice. I have actually re-read most of that book since, because the characters really did imprint deeply on me and the way that particular story unfolded. Can't say I have read anything else quite like it.
Baileu's books stand out to me because there tends to be one *bad man* MMC and the other MMC is his target/obsession/kidnap victim, etc. This dynamic is so intriguing. And it will only work if care is taken to let these characters reveal how they are wired. I mean, if the author doesn't really let us in to these mens' mindsets, past traumas, motivations, and even their flavor of neurodivergence, how can the story truly land? It can't just be a shallow, caricature-type level of plot development. It needs complex depth and imperfect, damaged humans to sustain a full story.
And then... wrap in a romance, and slowly, ever so slowly, see exactly how these characters inch toward a mutual relationship and even truly love one another, so you can feel an earned surge of happiness at seeing them get their HEA...and well, I'm sold. These books are like catnip for me.
I'm such a sucker for psychological-driven romances. This book delivered with thoughtful and detail-oriented dual POVs, and the patient way she showed how they think and why they think that way. Charlie was heartbreaking, and immediately I wanted him to feel better. He was so lost, so vulnerable and tired, and in so much pain. The fact that he went to a kink club not for sex, not to meet anyone... he only goes into the littles room so he could feel a moment's peace from the exhaustion of his life -- choosing to just sit and color and take a nap -- quickly made his proclivities make sense. We see him sink into the little headspace inch by inch, minute by minute, in the first chapter.
I've never read an age-play novel before so this was new territory. I've read books with characters calling each other Daddy but the Daddy/Little dynamic wasn't familiar to me. And I couldn't really get my head fully around how it would *work* until now. Why one man would want to be a caregiver so badly and the other would want to be the one cared for to that regressed level. I'm not saying this is a definitive work on the topic, but after reading this story I do think I understand it so much more now.
Charlie's struggles are one thing, but then having Nikolaus come onto the scene and basically TAKE Charlie was a bold choice. Yes, it's a kidnapping. But somehow it's a kidnapping with all the best intentions and as the book progresses I realized this was probably the only way the self-deprecating Charlie would ever accept this level of devotion and care. There's a line about not going through the long dating process to find the ideal partner for this kind of relationship, and in that you can kind of see why Niko's choice to just kidnap Charlie maybe wasn't *that* crazy. Heh. It still is, but this is fiction and this is heightened for dramatic purposes! Just go with it.
Speaking of just going with it, I couldn't put this book down. Started it yesterday morning (release day!) and finished it exactly 24 hours later. The way each scene has time to breathe, with every small detail and action clearly explained (along with internal reactions) drew me in. Charlie's internal panic as he realizes he's being put on a plane and flown across the country against his will felt visceral because of the way each moment is carefully described.
I won't spoil the third act drama but ultimately this book had a HEA. I really appreciated the author's TWs and explanations regarding her own personal lifestyle experience and the reality of living with a chronic illness. It makes lots of sense that we don't get a neat explanation for what Charlie's diagnosis might be because that's the reality so many people live with.
The spice was relatively mild all things considered, and there was only one point where I kind of cringed over the tone of the dialogue (certain words Niko used felt a bit out of character but maybe that's just me) during an intimate scene.
The most romantic thing in this book was Niko taking care of Charlie's financial and medical debts. Hey. This is the epitome of peak daydreams in 2026 America. ;-)
The side characters were great, too. I loved the two women working for Niko... they were so calmly accepting, and caring, and they genuinely accepted and welcomed Charlie into the household without judgment. Constantine is another character who was accepting and loyal, and helped make Charlie feel a little more at ease... but then there's a dramatic 180 turn and somehow I felt a little twinge of regret that this had to happen this way. Just read it and see.
Overall, once more this is not a book for everyone. There's also a scene of violent torture at the hands of side characters, just FYI. So please read the trigger warnings and don't read the book if it doesn't sound like your kind of thing. I'd hate to see this pulled down in ratings just because the readers who already know they'd never like this type of story decided to read it anyway. But if you have an open mind, if you crave psychological complexity, explorations of the why and how of specific kinks, and following damaged characters who wind up being the perfect-fitting puzzle piece for one another (the epitome of 'good thing they found each other'), then by all means read this one. It's really great.
E. Baileu is now my insta-read authors going forward. Whatever she writes, I'm in.
Something I seek out in the MM books I'm reading lately is variety. Not that there's anything wrong with this, but personally I can't strictly read, say, hockey books, or small town romances, or only fantasy smut. I need a little of everything. And I want to be challenged. I want a dramatic mix of light and dark. I want to discover new-to-me kinks, see how monster-sex works (hey, I'm curious!) and read how authors handle taboo topics in these novels.
A couple months back I read There's Something in the Water and was promptly hooked on E. Baileu's storytelling voice. I have actually re-read most of that book since, because the characters really did imprint deeply on me and the way that particular story unfolded. Can't say I have read anything else quite like it.
Baileu's books stand out to me because there tends to be one *bad man* MMC and the other MMC is his target/obsession/kidnap victim, etc. This dynamic is so intriguing. And it will only work if care is taken to let these characters reveal how they are wired. I mean, if the author doesn't really let us in to these mens' mindsets, past traumas, motivations, and even their flavor of neurodivergence, how can the story truly land? It can't just be a shallow, caricature-type level of plot development. It needs complex depth and imperfect, damaged humans to sustain a full story.
And then... wrap in a romance, and slowly, ever so slowly, see exactly how these characters inch toward a mutual relationship and even truly love one another, so you can feel an earned surge of happiness at seeing them get their HEA...and well, I'm sold. These books are like catnip for me.
I'm such a sucker for psychological-driven romances. This book delivered with thoughtful and detail-oriented dual POVs, and the patient way she showed how they think and why they think that way. Charlie was heartbreaking, and immediately I wanted him to feel better. He was so lost, so vulnerable and tired, and in so much pain. The fact that he went to a kink club not for sex, not to meet anyone... he only goes into the littles room so he could feel a moment's peace from the exhaustion of his life -- choosing to just sit and color and take a nap -- quickly made his proclivities make sense. We see him sink into the little headspace inch by inch, minute by minute, in the first chapter.
I've never read an age-play novel before so this was new territory. I've read books with characters calling each other Daddy but the Daddy/Little dynamic wasn't familiar to me. And I couldn't really get my head fully around how it would *work* until now. Why one man would want to be a caregiver so badly and the other would want to be the one cared for to that regressed level. I'm not saying this is a definitive work on the topic, but after reading this story I do think I understand it so much more now.
Charlie's struggles are one thing, but then having Nikolaus come onto the scene and basically TAKE Charlie was a bold choice. Yes, it's a kidnapping. But somehow it's a kidnapping with all the best intentions and as the book progresses I realized this was probably the only way the self-deprecating Charlie would ever accept this level of devotion and care. There's a line about not going through the long dating process to find the ideal partner for this kind of relationship, and in that you can kind of see why Niko's choice to just kidnap Charlie maybe wasn't *that* crazy. Heh. It still is, but this is fiction and this is heightened for dramatic purposes! Just go with it.
Speaking of just going with it, I couldn't put this book down. Started it yesterday morning (release day!) and finished it exactly 24 hours later. The way each scene has time to breathe, with every small detail and action clearly explained (along with internal reactions) drew me in. Charlie's internal panic as he realizes he's being put on a plane and flown across the country against his will felt visceral because of the way each moment is carefully described.
I won't spoil the third act drama but ultimately this book had a HEA. I really appreciated the author's TWs and explanations regarding her own personal lifestyle experience and the reality of living with a chronic illness. It makes lots of sense that we don't get a neat explanation for what Charlie's diagnosis might be because that's the reality so many people live with.
The spice was relatively mild all things considered, and there was only one point where I kind of cringed over the tone of the dialogue (certain words Niko used felt a bit out of character but maybe that's just me) during an intimate scene.
The most romantic thing in this book was Niko taking care of Charlie's financial and medical debts. Hey. This is the epitome of peak daydreams in 2026 America. ;-)
The side characters were great, too. I loved the two women working for Niko... they were so calmly accepting, and caring, and they genuinely accepted and welcomed Charlie into the household without judgment. Constantine is another character who was accepting and loyal, and helped make Charlie feel a little more at ease... but then there's a dramatic 180 turn and somehow I felt a little twinge of regret that this had to happen this way. Just read it and see.
Overall, once more this is not a book for everyone. There's also a scene of violent torture at the hands of side characters, just FYI. So please read the trigger warnings and don't read the book if it doesn't sound like your kind of thing. I'd hate to see this pulled down in ratings just because the readers who already know they'd never like this type of story decided to read it anyway. But if you have an open mind, if you crave psychological complexity, explorations of the why and how of specific kinks, and following damaged characters who wind up being the perfect-fitting puzzle piece for one another (the epitome of 'good thing they found each other'), then by all means read this one. It's really great.
E. Baileu is now my insta-read authors going forward. Whatever she writes, I'm in.
July 8, 2026
🐥🌈I just want someone to take care of me. Just for a little bit☠️🖤
"I just want someone to take care of me. Just for a little bit..."
"He isn't conventionally handsome, but he's beautiful in a way that is both private and holy, as if his entire existence is a secret meant for only one person. Me."
"Who are you?" I ask after a second, because that feels important.
He answers me this time. "I'm your new Daddy."
"You just stay there, little one. Daddy will take care of everything." And I do. Not because I forgive him. Not because I'm okay. Not because any of this is okay. But because my body is relaxed, and my brain is quiet, and for a little while, all the things too big for me to hold can belong to the grown men speaking above me. For a little while, I am only warm, petted, and small.
"My poor baby. You've been struggling without your Daddy." My eyes squeeze shut again. That should not make me want to cry more. It does.
"He wants a baby boy. One he can take care of, protect, spoil rotten." Spoil. Protect. Take care of. The words echo in my chest like a promise.
"But I don't think my brain asks permission before it does things anymore. It just does them. It folds me up and puts me somewhere smaller when the regular-sized version of me can't hold everything at once. Maybe that means it's trauma. Probably it means it's trauma."
"His voice is soft and so nice. Too nice. The kind of nice that wraps around my brain and gives it a hug."
"Nikolaus is the reason I need protecting. Nikolaus is also the only person who seems capable of protecting me."
"That's it. Let Daddy rub your special place. So good. You're doing so well for me, sweetheart. So quiet. Such a good boy."
"I go absolutely feral. I want to tear him open and climb inside. I want to fill every inch, mark every patch of skin so he's never in doubt again."
This author has left me speechless yet once again. This was an emotional, dark read. I'm so excited to finally read a dark age playbook and I must say that this is one of my most favorite books written for age play. This author did a flawless job handling the sensitive topics in this story. I really related to this story so much as I suffer with chronic illness and chronic pain. I have also been pushed around to over ten doctors like what Charlie had to deal with. My heart broke for this boy on so many levels 😭. This was a slowburn, but when the spice hit, it was delicious 🔥🔥🔥. This story had some fantastic troupes like: Dark Age Play W/ ABDL, Dark Romance, Age Gap, Possessive/Protective MC, Chronic Illness Rep, Hurt/Comfort, and Kidnapping. I also love many of the side characters in this story. Marta, Elise, and Mama Maria were treasures. I didn't expect the betrayal and the twist at the end of the story that had me yelling WTF! Seeing these two men find their peace and thrive together made my dark heart happy 🖤.
This story follows Charlie and Nikolaus. Charlie is suffering from chronic illness and pain. He is alone and has no support. Even the doctors aren't helping him. On a hard day, he goes to a kink club and spends time in his little space. Nikolaus is a Greek mobster who has been looking for his boy for a very long time. He stops by the club and observers Charlie. He becomes obsessed and decides that's his boy. He interacts with him and decides to kidnap him for his own good 🤣. Charlie tries to put up a fight but he's stuck in little space and is getting manipulated somewhat. We see Niko take him home and basically build Charlie a new life. We see them slowly get intimate and open up. We see Charlie's walls drop and start to accept his Daddy. We see their beautiful intimacy grow. We see Niko be the best Daddy and caretaker ever. We see Charlie's struggles with his chronic illness and insecurities. We see new doctors trying to help Charlie. This all leads up to some betrayals and Charlie getting hurt. Can Niko save his boy in time? Will Charlie's happy life come to a hault as soon as it began? There is nothing that can come between Niko and his little one ☠️🖤.
These two men together were everything. Charlie was such a broken boy who just wanted to rest. He needed help but couldn't ask for it. Niko has Daddy engraved into his core. I loved how intense and gentle he was with Charlie. He watched and listened to his every move. I loved how beautiful their acceptance and intimacy was. I loved seeing Charlie open up and be vulnerable and grow. I loved how supportive and caring Niko was with his panic attacks, little space, his insecurities, and the doctor apts/chronic health issues. So many moments made me swoon but my fav was the friendship bracelets 🥹. Their chemistry and connection was 🥵🔥🔥. The spicy scenes were kinky, feral, and beautifully intimate. The affection between these two were everything. Seeing this dark and dangerous mobster wrapped around this bright and colorful boy's finger was too adorable. These two men not only found solace in each other but also their missing pieces. ☠️🔫🩸🐥🧸🖍⭐️🌛🌈🩺🩻
"I just want someone to take care of me. Just for a little bit..."
"He isn't conventionally handsome, but he's beautiful in a way that is both private and holy, as if his entire existence is a secret meant for only one person. Me."
"Who are you?" I ask after a second, because that feels important.
He answers me this time. "I'm your new Daddy."
"You just stay there, little one. Daddy will take care of everything." And I do. Not because I forgive him. Not because I'm okay. Not because any of this is okay. But because my body is relaxed, and my brain is quiet, and for a little while, all the things too big for me to hold can belong to the grown men speaking above me. For a little while, I am only warm, petted, and small.
"My poor baby. You've been struggling without your Daddy." My eyes squeeze shut again. That should not make me want to cry more. It does.
"He wants a baby boy. One he can take care of, protect, spoil rotten." Spoil. Protect. Take care of. The words echo in my chest like a promise.
"But I don't think my brain asks permission before it does things anymore. It just does them. It folds me up and puts me somewhere smaller when the regular-sized version of me can't hold everything at once. Maybe that means it's trauma. Probably it means it's trauma."
"His voice is soft and so nice. Too nice. The kind of nice that wraps around my brain and gives it a hug."
"Nikolaus is the reason I need protecting. Nikolaus is also the only person who seems capable of protecting me."
"That's it. Let Daddy rub your special place. So good. You're doing so well for me, sweetheart. So quiet. Such a good boy."
"I go absolutely feral. I want to tear him open and climb inside. I want to fill every inch, mark every patch of skin so he's never in doubt again."
This author has left me speechless yet once again. This was an emotional, dark read. I'm so excited to finally read a dark age playbook and I must say that this is one of my most favorite books written for age play. This author did a flawless job handling the sensitive topics in this story. I really related to this story so much as I suffer with chronic illness and chronic pain. I have also been pushed around to over ten doctors like what Charlie had to deal with. My heart broke for this boy on so many levels 😭. This was a slowburn, but when the spice hit, it was delicious 🔥🔥🔥. This story had some fantastic troupes like: Dark Age Play W/ ABDL, Dark Romance, Age Gap, Possessive/Protective MC, Chronic Illness Rep, Hurt/Comfort, and Kidnapping. I also love many of the side characters in this story. Marta, Elise, and Mama Maria were treasures. I didn't expect the betrayal and the twist at the end of the story that had me yelling WTF! Seeing these two men find their peace and thrive together made my dark heart happy 🖤.
This story follows Charlie and Nikolaus. Charlie is suffering from chronic illness and pain. He is alone and has no support. Even the doctors aren't helping him. On a hard day, he goes to a kink club and spends time in his little space. Nikolaus is a Greek mobster who has been looking for his boy for a very long time. He stops by the club and observers Charlie. He becomes obsessed and decides that's his boy. He interacts with him and decides to kidnap him for his own good 🤣. Charlie tries to put up a fight but he's stuck in little space and is getting manipulated somewhat. We see Niko take him home and basically build Charlie a new life. We see them slowly get intimate and open up. We see Charlie's walls drop and start to accept his Daddy. We see their beautiful intimacy grow. We see Niko be the best Daddy and caretaker ever. We see Charlie's struggles with his chronic illness and insecurities. We see new doctors trying to help Charlie. This all leads up to some betrayals and Charlie getting hurt. Can Niko save his boy in time? Will Charlie's happy life come to a hault as soon as it began? There is nothing that can come between Niko and his little one ☠️🖤.
These two men together were everything. Charlie was such a broken boy who just wanted to rest. He needed help but couldn't ask for it. Niko has Daddy engraved into his core. I loved how intense and gentle he was with Charlie. He watched and listened to his every move. I loved how beautiful their acceptance and intimacy was. I loved seeing Charlie open up and be vulnerable and grow. I loved how supportive and caring Niko was with his panic attacks, little space, his insecurities, and the doctor apts/chronic health issues. So many moments made me swoon but my fav was the friendship bracelets 🥹. Their chemistry and connection was 🥵🔥🔥. The spicy scenes were kinky, feral, and beautifully intimate. The affection between these two were everything. Seeing this dark and dangerous mobster wrapped around this bright and colorful boy's finger was too adorable. These two men not only found solace in each other but also their missing pieces. ☠️🔫🩸🐥🧸🖍⭐️🌛🌈🩺🩻
July 23, 2026
3.5 rounded down to 3
All in all a good read but would have greatly benefited from an extended timeline, and maybe being a bit longer as a result.
There is a problem with the timeline, and that's my main issue with the book: everything happens in *less than two weeks*. The speed at which Charlie reacts to and bond with Nikolaus isn'tvery realistic (but alright, if it was just that I could've accepted that this is just vastly exaggerated fiction and suspended my disbelief), but the main problem is with the plot and logistics themselves.
I appreciated the chronic illness perspective but thought it didn't have enough of a regular presence in the story, it was either there or not there when chronic illness (especially the kind Charlie seems to have) is always present and impacts everything on a day to day basis. Same as my precedent point, it would have been better with a story told over a few months rather than a few days.
Other than that age play/age regression usually isn't my thing at all (on the contrary) but I wanted to give this book a chance because I really like everything and anything with forced proximity and the promise of a character with an ongoing undiagnosed chronic illness was very interesting as someone who has lived through something similar and wanted to see what the author did with it. I would recommend it even if you're not into age play/age regression because the focus isn't so much on the play and kink aspect itself but on the way it's a vessel for caretaking —I found other books with this kink were very focused on the theatre and protocol of it all and missed the fact that it's very often a kink that lives and thrives because of the need of people to connect and either let go and trust or take care and have someone completely rely on them. As always kink is a process with a lot of psychology and social dynamics behind it and I often find that many authors tend to fetishize it and only write about it on a surface level, which can be titillating for readers but doesn't make for a great read; I was thus very happily surprised that it wasn't the case here and that's why a link that is usually not my cup of tea was the perfect one here and didn't have a negative impact on my enjoyment of the book at all.
I don't know if the author is a kinster or not, but I usually find authors in the kink community have a deeper understanding of those dynamics and of the fact that the boundaries of kinks are not as rigid as one might think from the outside —Cara Dee is a great example of this, also the (sadly not available anymore) series The Asylum Fight Club by Tibby Armstrong and Bianca Sommerland.
All in all a good read but would have greatly benefited from an extended timeline, and maybe being a bit longer as a result.
There is a problem with the timeline, and that's my main issue with the book: everything happens in *less than two weeks*. The speed at which Charlie reacts to and bond with Nikolaus isn'tvery realistic (but alright, if it was just that I could've accepted that this is just vastly exaggerated fiction and suspended my disbelief), but the main problem is with the plot and logistics themselves.
I appreciated the chronic illness perspective but thought it didn't have enough of a regular presence in the story, it was either there or not there when chronic illness (especially the kind Charlie seems to have) is always present and impacts everything on a day to day basis. Same as my precedent point, it would have been better with a story told over a few months rather than a few days.
Other than that age play/age regression usually isn't my thing at all (on the contrary) but I wanted to give this book a chance because I really like everything and anything with forced proximity and the promise of a character with an ongoing undiagnosed chronic illness was very interesting as someone who has lived through something similar and wanted to see what the author did with it. I would recommend it even if you're not into age play/age regression because the focus isn't so much on the play and kink aspect itself but on the way it's a vessel for caretaking —I found other books with this kink were very focused on the theatre and protocol of it all and missed the fact that it's very often a kink that lives and thrives because of the need of people to connect and either let go and trust or take care and have someone completely rely on them. As always kink is a process with a lot of psychology and social dynamics behind it and I often find that many authors tend to fetishize it and only write about it on a surface level, which can be titillating for readers but doesn't make for a great read; I was thus very happily surprised that it wasn't the case here and that's why a link that is usually not my cup of tea was the perfect one here and didn't have a negative impact on my enjoyment of the book at all.
I don't know if the author is a kinster or not, but I usually find authors in the kink community have a deeper understanding of those dynamics and of the fact that the boundaries of kinks are not as rigid as one might think from the outside —Cara Dee is a great example of this, also the (sadly not available anymore) series The Asylum Fight Club by Tibby Armstrong and Bianca Sommerland.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First things first, I really appreciated the authors note here at the beginning of the book, how much they added themselves to Charlie, giving their depth to the character. I love books that carry so much of the author’s own experiences and what they have actually gone through.
Now, for the book. At first, we get this mix of sadness, of impossibilities, of uselessness, the harshness of life that flows toward unwanted tenderness and resistance, maybe even hatred, but it is all lined with acceptance in a strange way, almost like inevitability.
Charlie sees himself as a human marshmallow. He thinks he has the survival instincts of an unmotivated potato, but it’s really from being beaten down so long that fighting is just another useless way to lose energy, another way to be disappointed in himself, that surrendering is just easier when you’re exhausted. The “Soft Brain No Words Blankie” route he calls it. Who knew you needed to get forcefully kidnapped in order to find the support, understanding, kindness, and love you deserve to heal yourself and let yourself shine, to push him from surviving to living, to be seen. And that Niko would be the type who could actually give that.
This whole book is more on them both figuring this out. Their backgrounds, how they met, how they accepted one another and saw the starting of what it all could lead to, the potential. So we were completely there with them throughout every thing. We got the witness the starting of their relationship as a whole and it definitely gave it more depth. It gave it time to sink in with us as we watched it develop.
I have only read a few age play books but this one gave me more appreciation for it, the reasons behind it, more details on the impulses. Giving out bits and pieces other books tend to leave out or glance over to make it more widely digestible.
Another little weird, useless thought I had at the beginning is that the names were Constantine (Costa) and Niko. Now, I have all the My Big Fat Greek Wedding movies memorized and I remember how all the men were either Costa or had Nik or Niko as a nickname so I was like, maybe they’re Greek. Lol!
I did see where this was going to go though. I’ve read a few mob books where ofcourse the betrayal hits home. “The call is coming from inside the house!” type, but it’s still gets your blood boiling here. All in all, really enjoyed the book. Loved Charlie! And I was happy to get a little more of a detailed peak into this type of roleplay/relationship. Solid 4-4.5 for me! Spice was surprising on the low end but didn’t take anything away from the book. Would have loved maybe a 2nd epilogue, them a few years in the future maybe. I do appreciate that the ending with Charlie’s sickness is left how it was. It’s a big reality that happens to countless people and this shines a light on that.
“The world outside the lines is allowed here”
“If it turns out my time with Niko had all been a dream, I’d spend the rest of my life asleep”
Now, for the book. At first, we get this mix of sadness, of impossibilities, of uselessness, the harshness of life that flows toward unwanted tenderness and resistance, maybe even hatred, but it is all lined with acceptance in a strange way, almost like inevitability.
Charlie sees himself as a human marshmallow. He thinks he has the survival instincts of an unmotivated potato, but it’s really from being beaten down so long that fighting is just another useless way to lose energy, another way to be disappointed in himself, that surrendering is just easier when you’re exhausted. The “Soft Brain No Words Blankie” route he calls it. Who knew you needed to get forcefully kidnapped in order to find the support, understanding, kindness, and love you deserve to heal yourself and let yourself shine, to push him from surviving to living, to be seen. And that Niko would be the type who could actually give that.
This whole book is more on them both figuring this out. Their backgrounds, how they met, how they accepted one another and saw the starting of what it all could lead to, the potential. So we were completely there with them throughout every thing. We got the witness the starting of their relationship as a whole and it definitely gave it more depth. It gave it time to sink in with us as we watched it develop.
I have only read a few age play books but this one gave me more appreciation for it, the reasons behind it, more details on the impulses. Giving out bits and pieces other books tend to leave out or glance over to make it more widely digestible.
Another little weird, useless thought I had at the beginning is that the names were Constantine (Costa) and Niko. Now, I have all the My Big Fat Greek Wedding movies memorized and I remember how all the men were either Costa or had Nik or Niko as a nickname so I was like, maybe they’re Greek. Lol!
I did see where this was going to go though. I’ve read a few mob books where ofcourse the betrayal hits home. “The call is coming from inside the house!” type, but it’s still gets your blood boiling here. All in all, really enjoyed the book. Loved Charlie! And I was happy to get a little more of a detailed peak into this type of roleplay/relationship. Solid 4-4.5 for me! Spice was surprising on the low end but didn’t take anything away from the book. Would have loved maybe a 2nd epilogue, them a few years in the future maybe. I do appreciate that the ending with Charlie’s sickness is left how it was. It’s a big reality that happens to countless people and this shines a light on that.
“The world outside the lines is allowed here”
“If it turns out my time with Niko had all been a dream, I’d spend the rest of my life asleep”
July 5, 2026
Listen up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
It's a YES from me. This was right down my alley, and I will be rereading this!
First of all: Charlie. My sweetie baby boy, ohhh, how I love him. I'll have a Charlie, please? Jokes aside, he's amazing, so cute, so perfect. I understand why Nikolaus was in love at first sight. I was too. What a strong guy, he's not had it easy, and was the most deserving of a new life. Now, how that life happened... can be discussed, ahem, ahem, but hey, I was all here for it. HAHA. But it was all good in the end, so I'll let it slide. HAHA. No, but the kidnapping part of the story was written SO well, and all the details included made the scenes play in my head like a freaking movie. I was so intrigued. I was scared the book was going to be written in a way that was going to be too 'emotional', or like, with too many descriptions of emotions and inner feelings, but I think the author did a great job at balancing it out so it felt just right.
Nikolaus is a big teddy cutiebear, and I loved him and his caring side, but also his murderous one. Yeah, he was the whole package, and I really, really, really liked the size difference between Charlie and Niko, okay? Some perfect contrast it was. I really liked how Niko handled Charlie, and I really liked that we got to see Nikolaus vulnerable, unsure, and emotional in the situations he couldn't control.
(DO NOT read the spoilers unless you've read the book....)
It was a great representation of chronic illness, I recognised every aspect,
And I really loved Constantine, as well - such a loyal, wonderful, level-headed person that Nikolaus really could lean on…
Overall, I really loved the book, it had me hooked from the first to the last chapter, which I was surprised about, and I had a great time reading about Charlie in little space. I learned some new stuff too, which I really had fun with. Thank you so incredibly much for trusting me with an ARC, it was an honor, and I really appreciated it. First book of this author, and the spice in this book caught my interest, so I am really interested to check out more books of E. Baileu, and Hush, Little Baby is going up on my shelf at home!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
It's a YES from me. This was right down my alley, and I will be rereading this!
First of all: Charlie. My sweetie baby boy, ohhh, how I love him. I'll have a Charlie, please? Jokes aside, he's amazing, so cute, so perfect. I understand why Nikolaus was in love at first sight. I was too. What a strong guy, he's not had it easy, and was the most deserving of a new life. Now, how that life happened... can be discussed, ahem, ahem, but hey, I was all here for it. HAHA. But it was all good in the end, so I'll let it slide. HAHA. No, but the kidnapping part of the story was written SO well, and all the details included made the scenes play in my head like a freaking movie. I was so intrigued. I was scared the book was going to be written in a way that was going to be too 'emotional', or like, with too many descriptions of emotions and inner feelings, but I think the author did a great job at balancing it out so it felt just right.
Nikolaus is a big teddy cutiebear, and I loved him and his caring side, but also his murderous one. Yeah, he was the whole package, and I really, really, really liked the size difference between Charlie and Niko, okay? Some perfect contrast it was. I really liked how Niko handled Charlie, and I really liked that we got to see Nikolaus vulnerable, unsure, and emotional in the situations he couldn't control.
(DO NOT read the spoilers unless you've read the book....)
It was a great representation of chronic illness, I recognised every aspect,
And I really loved Constantine, as well - such a loyal, wonderful, level-headed person that Nikolaus really could lean on…
Overall, I really loved the book, it had me hooked from the first to the last chapter, which I was surprised about, and I had a great time reading about Charlie in little space. I learned some new stuff too, which I really had fun with. Thank you so incredibly much for trusting me with an ARC, it was an honor, and I really appreciated it. First book of this author, and the spice in this book caught my interest, so I am really interested to check out more books of E. Baileu, and Hush, Little Baby is going up on my shelf at home!
July 11, 2026
I-... I want to give this book at least 3 stars. I feel like I've been giving out a lot of 5 stars easily this year
But I won't...... can't give it 3. It has to be 5. 🤷♀️
There is so much missing from this story. So many confusing holes IMO.
BUT
God the hold these characters have on me.
I admit I've read books that made me look for things to do because they were boring and I couldn't stand reading them. But this was the opposite. I didn't want it to end. I didnt want to say goodbye to them.
Though the first half of the book, maybe more... Niko tripped me out. Like bro, you're.... insane. Like have hella issues cuz what made you think any of this was okay even if you did mean it from a good place. Lol
And Charlie is just so adorably precious... I too have the urge to wrap him in a bubble suit so no harm comes to him. Lol
Like I said though, there were some issues I had with the story where it wasn't very clear. And the plot feels almost like a afterthought while most of this felt character driven. You know how some shows have special editions that are extended? I wish we had another version of this book so we could see more into Niko's life behind the scenes of Charlie. J would love to see more of the ladies in their lives as well. Lol
That plot twist though. I was vibrating! I didn't see it coming (at least not at that moment) and holy hell the way my jaw was on the floor. I had to reread so much of that chapter multiple times because I don't think my mind could process it. Lol
This was the first book of it's kind that I have ever read and It's one I will never forget.
There is so much more I want to say but I feel like I will give away to much.
Did I question "wtf am I reading?" A lot through this book? Definitely.
Could I stop? .. why would I want to? Lol
Did I have trust issues about Niko through maybe more than half of the book? So much trust issues. Lol
Stockholm Syndrome?... sadly, I think possibly so.
Am I mad about it?...... no 😭 and I'm judging myself for that.
I think the realness of Charlie is also what held this book together. As someone who has chronic illness, my heart broke for him endlessly. I know others will probably read this and find him annoying but I cant. The amount of times he cried is relatable. And I cant fault him for leaning into Niko. That feeling of being seen and cared for. But also the battle of "i know im to much"
It felt hella real.
Okay I need to stop now. Lol. Hush, Little Baby has set the bar so high.... I think I may chase this high for a while but part of me feels like nothing will come close to this book.
But I won't...... can't give it 3. It has to be 5. 🤷♀️
There is so much missing from this story. So many confusing holes IMO.
BUT
God the hold these characters have on me.
I admit I've read books that made me look for things to do because they were boring and I couldn't stand reading them. But this was the opposite. I didn't want it to end. I didnt want to say goodbye to them.
Though the first half of the book, maybe more... Niko tripped me out. Like bro, you're.... insane. Like have hella issues cuz what made you think any of this was okay even if you did mean it from a good place. Lol
And Charlie is just so adorably precious... I too have the urge to wrap him in a bubble suit so no harm comes to him. Lol
Like I said though, there were some issues I had with the story where it wasn't very clear. And the plot feels almost like a afterthought while most of this felt character driven. You know how some shows have special editions that are extended? I wish we had another version of this book so we could see more into Niko's life behind the scenes of Charlie. J would love to see more of the ladies in their lives as well. Lol
That plot twist though. I was vibrating! I didn't see it coming (at least not at that moment) and holy hell the way my jaw was on the floor. I had to reread so much of that chapter multiple times because I don't think my mind could process it. Lol
This was the first book of it's kind that I have ever read and It's one I will never forget.
There is so much more I want to say but I feel like I will give away to much.
Did I question "wtf am I reading?" A lot through this book? Definitely.
Could I stop? .. why would I want to? Lol
Did I have trust issues about Niko through maybe more than half of the book? So much trust issues. Lol
Stockholm Syndrome?... sadly, I think possibly so.
Am I mad about it?...... no 😭 and I'm judging myself for that.
I think the realness of Charlie is also what held this book together. As someone who has chronic illness, my heart broke for him endlessly. I know others will probably read this and find him annoying but I cant. The amount of times he cried is relatable. And I cant fault him for leaning into Niko. That feeling of being seen and cared for. But also the battle of "i know im to much"
It felt hella real.
Okay I need to stop now. Lol. Hush, Little Baby has set the bar so high.... I think I may chase this high for a while but part of me feels like nothing will come close to this book.
August 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Hush, Little Baby is a dark, tenderly possessive MM dark romance that took me by total surprise and had my poor chest squeezing left and right! It is beautifully complex and delivers the ultimate "good thing they found each other" energy.
The story centers on Charlie Palmer, a sweet, exhausted young man suffering from an agonizing, undiagnosed chronic illness. Between endless doctor appointments, medical debts, and total isolation, Charlie is so beaten down that his survival instincts have literally hit rock bottom, he’s a total human teddy bear who goes to a kink club’s "littles room" not for sex, but just to sit, color, and catch a moment of peace. Enter Nikolaus Makris, an older, dominant, and intensely possessive man who spots Charlie slipping into little headspace, decides right then and there that Charlie belongs to him, and straight-up kidnaps him onto a private plane! What starts as a bold, forced-proximity abduction slowly unfolds into a patient, detail-oriented journey of caretaking, devotion, and healing.
Oh, my sweet baby boy Charlie... my heart broke into a million pieces for him! The author's personal note at the beginning brings so much raw, genuine depth to his struggle with chronic pain and exhaustion. Leaving his illness without a neat, tied-up diagnosis felt so painfully real, and seeing Niko step in to handle all his medical and financial debts? where can i find that! i know Niko technically kidnapped him, but Charlie was so burnt out and convinced of his own worthlessness that extreme measures were literally the only way he’d ever accept this level of love. Niko is a possessive daddy who falls to his knees for his boy, proving time and again that he will never, ever hurt his baby.
While the spice sits on the softer end, the psychological suspense and character growth keep you completely glued to the page. And without giving away major spoilers, when that betrayal hits... my blood was absolutely boiling! Justice was served so well, and the HEA felt completely earned. I devoured this book! It balances the dark, morally gray themes with a quiet, gentle intimacy that makes you feel so safe as a reader. Watching damaged characters become the exact missing puzzle piece for one another is one of my favorite themes. If you keep an open mind and crave a story about a dark, possessive man who just wants to wrap his arms around a tired boy and shield him from the world, you need this in your TBR shelf immediately!
Instagram: @goodgirlsbookshelf_
July 4, 2026
2.5 stars. I really wanted to like this more, but I feel like it had some things that I couldn't just brush over.
First, I feel like the writting style was very cheesy in comparison to another recent release from this author. I was expecting it to be less juvenile, but it ended up being like that when I thought this wouldn't happen since it was a darker book.
Another thing I wasn't a fan of was the pacing. I'm usually not into insta-attraction or "I see this person and immediately think they're mine", which was the base of the entire relationship here, so I couldn't really believe in them. But besides that, I felt things went on faster than they should, and a perfect example of that was the last conflict by the end.
Speaking about that, I must admit that even if I should've seen it coming, I didn't think it'd happen since there were very few pages left. That event was solved pretty quickly but I wished it had more space to hit harder.
Other than that, I feel like the book wasn't as dark as I was told. I was expecting more, but the ML was actually a bit tame when it came to MC. Despite liking that trope, my issue was that to me the delivery felt different from what was promised.
Onto the things I enjoyed, the kidnapping part was my favorite. I wish Charlie had stayed scared a bit more and then slowly begin trusting Niko so that their relationship felt less of a fantasy. The caretaking bits were nice too.
Ultimately, I think this boils down to a pacing problem and not enough length space but despite those things, I was very invested on the story. I can always trust this author to keep me entertained, so kudos for that.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person dual pov
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
First, I feel like the writting style was very cheesy in comparison to another recent release from this author. I was expecting it to be less juvenile, but it ended up being like that when I thought this wouldn't happen since it was a darker book.
Another thing I wasn't a fan of was the pacing. I'm usually not into insta-attraction or "I see this person and immediately think they're mine", which was the base of the entire relationship here, so I couldn't really believe in them. But besides that, I felt things went on faster than they should, and a perfect example of that was the last conflict by the end.
Speaking about that, I must admit that even if I should've seen it coming, I didn't think it'd happen since there were very few pages left. That event was solved pretty quickly but I wished it had more space to hit harder.
Other than that, I feel like the book wasn't as dark as I was told. I was expecting more, but the ML was actually a bit tame when it came to MC. Despite liking that trope, my issue was that to me the delivery felt different from what was promised.
Onto the things I enjoyed, the kidnapping part was my favorite. I wish Charlie had stayed scared a bit more and then slowly begin trusting Niko so that their relationship felt less of a fantasy. The caretaking bits were nice too.
Ultimately, I think this boils down to a pacing problem and not enough length space but despite those things, I was very invested on the story. I can always trust this author to keep me entertained, so kudos for that.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: first person dual pov
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Kinks:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
July 4, 2026
So So Good!!!
This DD/lb dark romance is even better (imho) than E. Baileu's Dark Muse. My first highlight was in the author's note because I can viscerally relate to the image of being on the floor, in pain you don't understand, sobbing for your Daddy to find you because that's how much you need one. And the author beautifully demonstrated that exhaustion of mind and body caused by chronic illness combined with the desperate need for a Daddy who is truly there for you via Charlie and Niko's experience.
I honestly feel like Charlie's response to his abduction by Niko makes perfect sense with where he was at in his life and how Niko treated him. Charlie simply had no fight left to give because he'd already spent so long fighting for his physical life, and despite how messed up some of Niko's choices were in acquiring and keeping Charlie, he never once wavered on providing actual, gentle care to Charlie. How many people in the same situation wouldn't eventually, or even quickly, cave to simply being cared for and being able to let someone else handle the hard stuff? So, yeah, I find the story completely believable in that regard.
Beyond all of that, I simply enjoy how things proceeded in this book more than the other. The action happens faster than in some of E.'s other books (and yes, I get that the tension of being stalked is super on purpose and well done in those books). But I really enjoyed the way things played out in this book more than others. May just be due to ADHD impatience on my part. 😅
Anyway, this book is excellent!! You should absolutely read it unless you can't handle kink and/or dark romance. There's a trigger warning list for a reason, so check it out first, and read the author's note. There's a lot of useful insight that helps give this story a real framework in it.
Oh! And I LOVE combining age play relationships with dark romance!! I want my own Shadow Daddy, who just wants to take care of me... and other things. 😂
10/10 Totally recommend!!
This DD/lb dark romance is even better (imho) than E. Baileu's Dark Muse. My first highlight was in the author's note because I can viscerally relate to the image of being on the floor, in pain you don't understand, sobbing for your Daddy to find you because that's how much you need one. And the author beautifully demonstrated that exhaustion of mind and body caused by chronic illness combined with the desperate need for a Daddy who is truly there for you via Charlie and Niko's experience.
I honestly feel like Charlie's response to his abduction by Niko makes perfect sense with where he was at in his life and how Niko treated him. Charlie simply had no fight left to give because he'd already spent so long fighting for his physical life, and despite how messed up some of Niko's choices were in acquiring and keeping Charlie, he never once wavered on providing actual, gentle care to Charlie. How many people in the same situation wouldn't eventually, or even quickly, cave to simply being cared for and being able to let someone else handle the hard stuff? So, yeah, I find the story completely believable in that regard.
Beyond all of that, I simply enjoy how things proceeded in this book more than the other. The action happens faster than in some of E.'s other books (and yes, I get that the tension of being stalked is super on purpose and well done in those books). But I really enjoyed the way things played out in this book more than others. May just be due to ADHD impatience on my part. 😅
Anyway, this book is excellent!! You should absolutely read it unless you can't handle kink and/or dark romance. There's a trigger warning list for a reason, so check it out first, and read the author's note. There's a lot of useful insight that helps give this story a real framework in it.
Oh! And I LOVE combining age play relationships with dark romance!! I want my own Shadow Daddy, who just wants to take care of me... and other things. 😂
10/10 Totally recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🚩This is a Dark Romance so make sure you check the TWs before heading in! Also this story does have a DD/LB dynamic with Age Play! It is a HUGE part of this story and dynamic Between Niko and Charlie not just a side plot so if that's not your thing this one may not be for you but if it is E. Baileu does and awesome job in the CWs going over everything with the story 🥰
🌶🌶🌶
Charlie has been suffering from an unknown chronic condition that effects his daily life in multiple ways. As a break from everything Charlie visits a club where he can fall into his Little Space and just check out for a bit. After one very tough day Charlie goes to his Escape only to interrupted by Nikolaus who sits down and tells him "I'm your Daddy now and your coming home with me" and scoops Charlie up and legit takes him home 😳😬 Poor Charlie has no clue what is happening or how to get out of this now but after spending some time with Niko....maybe he doesn't really want to get out of this....maybe this is actually just what he has needed??
Ok ok does Niko technically "People Steal" Charlie....Yes...and I KNOW this is bad I promise I do BUT Charlie would have never been able to get over his trust issues or his Self worth/Selfesteem issues enough to be open to someone stepping in and helping him so Niko and his extreme measures really are the only thing that would have worked 🤣
The amount of patience and care Niko shows Charlie can only have been done by someone who is a Daddy at his core. Niko has literally dreamed of having his boy one day and even though Charlie may not feel it he was perfect for Niko 🥹 The story gets a little shake up towards the end but our guys get the HEA they both deserve 🖤
Tropes/Tags:
Dark Romance
Age Gap-18 Years
Hurt/Comfort
Forced Proximity
K!dnapping
Chronic Illness Rep
Possessive MC
Protective MC
Touch Him and 💀
Caretaker MC
Slow Burn 🔥
Daddy/Little--DD/LB
Age Play--ABDL
🤏🏻 Water Sports
Oral Fixation
🌶🌶🌶
Charlie has been suffering from an unknown chronic condition that effects his daily life in multiple ways. As a break from everything Charlie visits a club where he can fall into his Little Space and just check out for a bit. After one very tough day Charlie goes to his Escape only to interrupted by Nikolaus who sits down and tells him "I'm your Daddy now and your coming home with me" and scoops Charlie up and legit takes him home 😳😬 Poor Charlie has no clue what is happening or how to get out of this now but after spending some time with Niko....maybe he doesn't really want to get out of this....maybe this is actually just what he has needed??
Ok ok does Niko technically "People Steal" Charlie....Yes...and I KNOW this is bad I promise I do BUT Charlie would have never been able to get over his trust issues or his Self worth/Selfesteem issues enough to be open to someone stepping in and helping him so Niko and his extreme measures really are the only thing that would have worked 🤣
The amount of patience and care Niko shows Charlie can only have been done by someone who is a Daddy at his core. Niko has literally dreamed of having his boy one day and even though Charlie may not feel it he was perfect for Niko 🥹 The story gets a little shake up towards the end but our guys get the HEA they both deserve 🖤
Tropes/Tags:
Dark Romance
Age Gap-18 Years
Hurt/Comfort
Forced Proximity
K!dnapping
Chronic Illness Rep
Possessive MC
Protective MC
Touch Him and 💀
Caretaker MC
Slow Burn 🔥
Daddy/Little--DD/LB
Age Play--ABDL
🤏🏻 Water Sports
Oral Fixation
July 8, 2026
I may be in the minority here. It was fine but I had issues. I didn't mind the kidnapping. Hey, it's dark and mafia so par for the course. Niko was definitely overwhelming, just sticks him in a diaper and I wasn't sure if he used them because never once did a 26 year old go to the barthroom, shave, brush his teeth or anything else. I know every detail isn't needed but maybe a couple of throw away comments? Just because he's a little doesn't mean his body doesn't do what men's bodies do, i.e. grow a beard.
And the timing was off for me. He says his birthday is next week, then he's kidnapped maybe 2 days later, then about 3 days later they say your birthday is in 4 days, then he's kidnapped from being kidnapped a few days after his brithday (at least that how it seemed) and his mother shows up and claims he's been keeping Charlie a secret for month. Um. It's been about 2 weeks max. LOL That kind of continuity thing will make me crazy.
Also he just vanishes and while not close to his family, he did get a text or something on his birthday. He never reached out just to say "hey, I've moved and I'm not sure when I'll be in touch. Just to let you know I'm not dead." That would have seemed more realistic. And he never went back to the club? That girl at the entrance knew they asked about him, he vanished but she had the names of the people who came in as guests. Would she not call the cops? LOL Okay, I just thought of that.
So I didn't dislike this but I didn't love it either. It was fine with a few things that annoyed me but other won't care about those. So your pleasure may vary.
And the timing was off for me. He says his birthday is next week, then he's kidnapped maybe 2 days later, then about 3 days later they say your birthday is in 4 days, then he's kidnapped from being kidnapped a few days after his brithday (at least that how it seemed) and his mother shows up and claims he's been keeping Charlie a secret for month. Um. It's been about 2 weeks max. LOL That kind of continuity thing will make me crazy.
Also he just vanishes and while not close to his family, he did get a text or something on his birthday. He never reached out just to say "hey, I've moved and I'm not sure when I'll be in touch. Just to let you know I'm not dead." That would have seemed more realistic. And he never went back to the club? That girl at the entrance knew they asked about him, he vanished but she had the names of the people who came in as guests. Would she not call the cops? LOL Okay, I just thought of that.
So I didn't dislike this but I didn't love it either. It was fine with a few things that annoyed me but other won't care about those. So your pleasure may vary.
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