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A Beautiful Sin
USA TODAY BESTSELLING authors, Terri E. Laine and A.M. Hargrove bring a new full-length standalone, Contemporary Romance novel.
Since I was a boy, my desire was to serve. To give my vows and life over to the Church, despite the corruption in my soul.
Because of it.
I am a sinner. The embodiment of temptation – or so I’ve been told.
Yet I’ve never laid my hands upon a woman. Never sought the pleasures of the flesh that so many have been tempted by. I never wanted to.
Until her.
Sky blue eyes and pale blonde hair swallow me up until blue is all that I can see.
She is my weakness. My downfall. My temptation.
My name is Canaan. I am an ordained Roman Catholic Priest.
Her name is Haven, and I’m still not sure if she’s my salvation or my destruction.
This is not a love story.
This is a confession.
Dear Heavenly Father: I have sinned.
And so help me, I may sin again.
Warning - A Beautiful Sin is a forbidden romance that blurs lines between passion and religious faith. Please be warned, the subject matter may be offensive to some readers.
Since I was a boy, my desire was to serve. To give my vows and life over to the Church, despite the corruption in my soul.
Because of it.
I am a sinner. The embodiment of temptation – or so I’ve been told.
Yet I’ve never laid my hands upon a woman. Never sought the pleasures of the flesh that so many have been tempted by. I never wanted to.
Until her.
Sky blue eyes and pale blonde hair swallow me up until blue is all that I can see.
She is my weakness. My downfall. My temptation.
My name is Canaan. I am an ordained Roman Catholic Priest.
Her name is Haven, and I’m still not sure if she’s my salvation or my destruction.
This is not a love story.
This is a confession.
Dear Heavenly Father: I have sinned.
And so help me, I may sin again.
Warning - A Beautiful Sin is a forbidden romance that blurs lines between passion and religious faith. Please be warned, the subject matter may be offensive to some readers.
267 pages, ebook
First published June 23, 2016
101 people are currently reading
1384 people want to read
About the author
Terri E. Laine
79 books1,237 followersTerri E. Laine, USA Today bestselling author, left a lucrative career as a CPA to pursue her love for writing. Outside of her roles as a wife and mother of three, she’s always been a dreamer and as such became an avid reader at a young age.
Many years later, she got a crazy idea to write a novel and set out to try to publish it. With over a dozen titles published under various pen names, the rest is history. Her journey has been a blessing, and a dream realized. She looks forward to many more memories to come.
You can find more about her books at www.terrielaine.com.
Faceboook: www.facebook.com/TerriELaineAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TerriLaineBooks
Instagram: www.instragram.com/TerriLaineBooks
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YUePk8
Website: www.terrielaine.com
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Many years later, she got a crazy idea to write a novel and set out to try to publish it. With over a dozen titles published under various pen names, the rest is history. Her journey has been a blessing, and a dream realized. She looks forward to many more memories to come.
You can find more about her books at www.terrielaine.com.
Faceboook: www.facebook.com/TerriELaineAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TerriLaineBooks
Instagram: www.instragram.com/TerriLaineBooks
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YUePk8
Website: www.terrielaine.com
Newsletter sign up --> http://eepurl.com/bDJ9kb
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★! A beautiful sin (stand-alone). A love & life story of self-reflection, healing, forgiveness & salvation!
“Haven.” The way he said it felt like a prayer, one for forgiveness I imagines for the sinner I was.”
A Beautiful Sin (stand-alone) is about two lost souls who cross path again after some fifteen years. Father Canaan Sullivan and artist Haven Richardson went to the same Catholic school. It centers around one fateful night that changed the direction of both of their lives.
Since then Canaan and Haven have been spiraling out of control on the inside while finding ways to curb it on the outside. For Canaan God is his salvation, but also his prison. For Haven becoming an artist leaving family and God behind became her safe haven.
When they reunite it stirs and ignites something deep within them. Canaan will be tempted to walk astray, far from God and Haven will open her mind to the possibility of greater things in life.
It’s a journey of past abuse and guilt; self-reflection and growth; friendship and love. But above all about healing, forgiveness, salvation… and finding one’s calling!
Eight words to describe Father Canaan Sullivan: Noble, lonely, immature, naive, lost, broken, loving and innocent.
Seven words to describe Haven Richardson: Angry, conflicted, complex, feisty, selfish, indecisive and strong.
A Beautiful Sin, told from dual POVs, is a beautiful life and love story. It is not so much about the taboo aspect of God, sin and sex, but rather about dealing with painful pasts of abuse, guilt and fear and taking control of one’s life. The epilogue was my favorite, priceless!
Suffering! Faith! Healing! Mercy! Redemption! Love!
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3.75 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 4 stars
Storytelling rating: 4 stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
Thanks everyone for our Taboo books continued on Shh…: https://goo.gl/Ef22mr
ARC provided to me by authors Terri E. Laine & A.M Hargrove in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
3.5 Stars!!
If you are like me and love taboo stories, then you certainly will enjoy this one. While the story was a little more emotional than I had expected, I enjoyed it. I liked the storytelling a lot and I honestly had a hard time putting this book down…for the most part. These two authors delivered an intriguing tale that had a little bit of everything – drama, angst, romance – which of course I loved.
Canaan had known since he was just a child he wants to be a priest. Even if his entire life was shattered when he was very young, he never stopped believing in God continuing learning how to be a good Catholic priest. When Canaan is reassigned to his local childhood parish, he is not very thrilled. He is still a tormented and lost soul, the nightmares being now worse than ever.
Haven’s childhood changed when her mother passed away and she came to live with her aunt and her abusive uncle. The emotional and physical abuse changed Haven’s faith leaving her a little damaged. Now, a successful artist, Haven is a strong, independent woman, her art and her beloved mother’s memory being the only two things that keep her focused.
Canaan and Haven met each other once many years ago when both were young and fragile. Without knowing, back then, Canaan changed Haven’s life forever. If at first, Haven wants to be angry with Canaan and somehow makes him pay for what he did to her, as they get to know each other, they try to heal each other, realizing how powerful the connection between them is.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I think the forbidden aspect was fantastically done. The story kept me a little at the edge of my seat because I really didn’t know how the story will progress. And I have to admit here that I was really surprised by how everything unfolded between the two main characters. While I usually don’t care about the religious aspect in a book, here, I really appreciated the multitude of religious elements. The plot definitely felt more interesting.
I liked both Canaan and Haven and I loved their portrayal which was phenomenal. My heart broke for these two tormented characters. I liked how they started a tentative friendship and how slowly they started to open up to each other, eventually wanting more than a simple friendship. Canaan was a good human being, a good priest, a good man. His character development was stellar and his anguish and the story unfolded was gut-wrenching at times.
The story is written in dual POV, which I really liked. To be honest I enjoyed more Canaan’s POV, maybe because I liked his character a little more than Haven's. Don’t get me wrong, Haven was a likeable heroine as well and I sympathize with her at times, but she was a little frustrating. The conflict in this story, the pain, the anguish were very well done. I really felt these two characters’ turmoil as the story unfolded.
The plot was overall pretty great, but some sub-plots were way to developed in my opinion. What didn’t work for me so well was Canaan and Haven’s relationship development. Everything between them progressed to fast for my liking, therefore I didn’t connect with them as a couple as much as I wanted.
That being said, I enjoyed this one and while it wasn’t a total winner for me I recommend it for those who are looking for a taboo read with several religious themes.
If you are like me and love taboo stories, then you certainly will enjoy this one. While the story was a little more emotional than I had expected, I enjoyed it. I liked the storytelling a lot and I honestly had a hard time putting this book down…for the most part. These two authors delivered an intriguing tale that had a little bit of everything – drama, angst, romance – which of course I loved.
"For every action we take, there are always consequences. And my biggest one was I allowed my heart to get wrapped up where it had no business being.
Canaan had known since he was just a child he wants to be a priest. Even if his entire life was shattered when he was very young, he never stopped believing in God continuing learning how to be a good Catholic priest. When Canaan is reassigned to his local childhood parish, he is not very thrilled. He is still a tormented and lost soul, the nightmares being now worse than ever.
“It’s been said that priests are immune to beauty. I say whoever came up with that statement was a blind fool.”
Haven’s childhood changed when her mother passed away and she came to live with her aunt and her abusive uncle. The emotional and physical abuse changed Haven’s faith leaving her a little damaged. Now, a successful artist, Haven is a strong, independent woman, her art and her beloved mother’s memory being the only two things that keep her focused.
Canaan and Haven met each other once many years ago when both were young and fragile. Without knowing, back then, Canaan changed Haven’s life forever. If at first, Haven wants to be angry with Canaan and somehow makes him pay for what he did to her, as they get to know each other, they try to heal each other, realizing how powerful the connection between them is.
“Why is it that the only man I’ve ever been interested in has to be one I can’t ever have?”
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I think the forbidden aspect was fantastically done. The story kept me a little at the edge of my seat because I really didn’t know how the story will progress. And I have to admit here that I was really surprised by how everything unfolded between the two main characters. While I usually don’t care about the religious aspect in a book, here, I really appreciated the multitude of religious elements. The plot definitely felt more interesting.
I liked both Canaan and Haven and I loved their portrayal which was phenomenal. My heart broke for these two tormented characters. I liked how they started a tentative friendship and how slowly they started to open up to each other, eventually wanting more than a simple friendship. Canaan was a good human being, a good priest, a good man. His character development was stellar and his anguish and the story unfolded was gut-wrenching at times.
“It wasn’t supposed to be this way. A man of the cloth was forbidden to love a woman. Even with the wall I had attempted to construct, I had failed completely.”
The story is written in dual POV, which I really liked. To be honest I enjoyed more Canaan’s POV, maybe because I liked his character a little more than Haven's. Don’t get me wrong, Haven was a likeable heroine as well and I sympathize with her at times, but she was a little frustrating. The conflict in this story, the pain, the anguish were very well done. I really felt these two characters’ turmoil as the story unfolded.
The plot was overall pretty great, but some sub-plots were way to developed in my opinion. What didn’t work for me so well was Canaan and Haven’s relationship development. Everything between them progressed to fast for my liking, therefore I didn’t connect with them as a couple as much as I wanted.
That being said, I enjoyed this one and while it wasn’t a total winner for me I recommend it for those who are looking for a taboo read with several religious themes.
August 4, 2020
3.5 Stars
A book about a Catholic priest?
Something that can't be missed by a true fan of taboo books like me.
Did I enjoy it? I sure did. Did I love it? Well, not exactly.
Here is what worked for me:
- Subject matter, obviously. Some readers may feel that the story is too focused on the church and the priesthood but I didn’t mind. I easily connected to this aspect of the story and I found it extremely interesting.
- Hero
- Secondary characters
-Writing.
And here's what didn’t work for me:
- Heroine. I couldn’t relate to the heroine. I mean, I did like her and sympathize with her but I felt like the hero’s character was much better developed.
- Plot. I got bored during the second half of the book, especially while reading about the heroine's aunt and her personal drama. There was a lot of repetition and I felt like some less important events were described in too much detail while some other, more important ones were neglected.
- Forbidden love. I could feel a connection between the hero and the heroine but it wasn’t true love or epic love. They fall in love too easily and we never really see how their relationship evolves.
- Ending. This story is both devastating and beautiful. And it’s extremely emotional. It certainly evoked all kinds of feelings in me. However, being a taboo book I expected it to be more scandalous, provocative, passionate and intense, love-wise. I just felt that everything was resolved too fast and the ending was a little bit rushed.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment:: 3.5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 4/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
A book about a Catholic priest?
Something that can't be missed by a true fan of taboo books like me.
Did I enjoy it? I sure did. Did I love it? Well, not exactly.
Here is what worked for me:
- Subject matter, obviously. Some readers may feel that the story is too focused on the church and the priesthood but I didn’t mind. I easily connected to this aspect of the story and I found it extremely interesting.
- Hero
- Secondary characters
-Writing.
And here's what didn’t work for me:
- Heroine. I couldn’t relate to the heroine. I mean, I did like her and sympathize with her but I felt like the hero’s character was much better developed.
- Plot. I got bored during the second half of the book, especially while reading about the heroine's aunt and her personal drama. There was a lot of repetition and I felt like some less important events were described in too much detail while some other, more important ones were neglected.
- Forbidden love. I could feel a connection between the hero and the heroine but it wasn’t true love or epic love. They fall in love too easily and we never really see how their relationship evolves.
- Ending. This story is both devastating and beautiful. And it’s extremely emotional. It certainly evoked all kinds of feelings in me. However, being a taboo book I expected it to be more scandalous, provocative, passionate and intense, love-wise. I just felt that everything was resolved too fast and the ending was a little bit rushed.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment:: 3.5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 3/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/chemistry: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Angst: 4/5
Darkness level: 4/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
June 18, 2016
5+ Fantastic, Angsty-emotional Stars!
Wow! A Beautiful Sin was one of those books I picked up simply from the taboo premise of a priest potentially breaking his vows of chastity. There, I said it. But let me say this, the book blurb doesn't do this book a fraction of the justice it deserves. In fact, the book is so much deeper than the blurb depicts.
I won't go into that much detail because I think experiencing this story is best done with a fresh palate and no preconceived thoughts or direction. In fact, I'm so glad I got to read an early copy of this without seeing any reviews. I had no clue what this was going to be like... Is it going to be dark and dirty like The Original Sinners? Or smutty like Priest? This book is neither. This book is both heart-wrenching and hopeful....sad yet healing. Loved it!
We meet a beautiful young priest named Father Canaan Sullivan. His childhood is tragic and only when he's reassigned to his local childhood parish does he find his haunted memories resurfacing. The nightmares of his early years in this parish come back in technicolor.
Haven Richardson also lived a tragic childhood after her mother passed away- living with an abusive uncle. She's now an adult and finds herself looking at the priest of Holy Cross church. He looks familiar and it doesn't take long to figure out how she knows him...or knew him. And her haunted childhood memories suddenly resurface as well. Can these two find solace together or will all their inner secrets instead continue to fester and prevent them from healing and moving on in life?
So, I freaking loved Fr. Canaan. This wasn't the trope where you take a priest and hear not much about his day to day life of chastity and all the sudden he throws caution to the wind and breaks his vows of celibacy. This is a man who knew since he was a kid that he wanted to marry the church- to be a priest. He is a good man, a holy man, but still, a man. And Haven is the first woman to truly make him pause...did he make the right decision all those years ago?
It's been said that priests are immune to beauty. I say whoever came up with that statement was a blind fool. The woman possessed the rare type of beauty that one never forgets, and I'd come across attractive people throughout my life, but never one that gave me pause.
A Beautful Sin, due to the Catholic priest hero of this book, has a fair amount of religion in it. If taboo is your cuppa but religious themes tend to bother you, this may be too much. I, on the other hand, thought the Catholic side of the book made it that much more realistic and the plot felt more "filled" if that makes sense. Yes, Canaan's inner thoughts and day to day happenings dealt with Mass, prayers, and religious musings, but he's a priest and that's expected. Being of Catholic upbringing, it just further attached me to this angsty love story. I felt like I knew Canaan so thoroughly as a person AND a priest and the character development of him especially was perfectly done.
A Beautiful Sin is a FANTASTIC story filled with pain, regret, blame, but also hope, understanding, and healing. I haven't read anything in the past by these authors but wow, their dual POVs were spot on in this story. I can always weigh my feelings of a book based on how much I absorb and how much I find myself thinking about it when I'm not even reading. This is one of those books. The minute I opened the kindle, I picked right back up, fully invested in these characters. So much conflict. So much pain. My heart bled for both of them but Canaan really struck a cord with me.
This book is not smut. This plot will attach to your heart and soul and even a non-praying person will find themselves praying for a happy future for these two characters. The plot, at times, is a bit dark and emotionally intense yet also poetic and so beautiful. It's book cover is perfect for the story within its pages. I'm so happy I gave this book a try. It's not what I expected but instead a book that opened my eyes and, unfortunately, I feel it's probably fairly realistic in many sad ways...and I also hope too that it's realistic in the happy, healing ways.
I'd highly recommend this book for readers looking for something truly different, something emotionally intense but who also aren't deterred by a decent dose of religious undertones. It's who our hero is so it's in the book. And it truly needs to be... I will spoiler tag a trigger that may bother some people. Please don't click it unless you have known triggers. This plot otherwise really needs to be experienced as it comes.
I truly devoured this book and I hope to see lots more from this author duo. Bravo!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
June 23, 2016
༺**Complimentary Copy**༺ Provided by the author
"Terri E. Laine" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: A BEAUTIFUL SIN
AUTHOR: Terri E. Laine
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
CHAPTERS: 34 + Epilogue
RELEASE DATE: June 23th, 2016
Warning - A Beautiful Sin is a forbidden romance that blurs lines between passion and religious faith. Please be warned, the subject matter may be offensive to some readers.
MY RATING
A BEAUTIFUL SIN: (Told in 'Dual Perspectives' Canaan & Haven)
THEN: As far back as the age of fourteen Cannaan was an alter server who took his responsibilities seriously, even at such a young impressionable age he knew already that he wanted to become a priest. But Cannaan's teenage years were far from idyllic, a tortured, broken soul with the determination to commit to the church to cleanse his soul from all sins, seek forgiveness and absolution from higher above.
Church was my home
And someday would be my life.
Canaan and Haven met once as young teenagers, on a fateful night that had a tremendous impact on both their lives.
Twelve year old 'Haven' had a secret crush on 'Cannaa' for a while until that fateful night when she went seeking help from Father O'Brien but was intercepted by Cannaa and sent away, (My childhood crush had crushed me) .
When her mother passed away when she was twelve years old Haven was sent to live in an abusive environment with her Aunt and Uncle, she strives for the day when she turns eighteen and can leave.
God, why did you take Mum from me and send me to hell?
Father O'Brien had been my final hope
the last person who I thought could help me
but it was plain I wasn't worthy of him.
One left with scars marring the skin the other left with scars within
Reading what happened to these two in the past will leave you wide open for a ride on an emotional roller coaster. So gut wrenchingly raw.
NOW: Twenty-eight year old Canaan is reassigned to his local childhood parish now an ordained Roman Catholic priest, god and the church are his life forever and always. But going back to his past is like stepping back in time when all his nightmares reemerge.
My soul had been permanently cracked and scarred
by the things that had transpired in the bowels of the
church. The day I left I vowed never to return.
But now and then he questions the path he has chosen, what if there were another he was mean't to take?
Forgive me father for I have sinned.
Sometimes we are given choices
choices that are neither good nor evil,
mine walks in the form of something
beautiful, she is the temptation. Or perhaps
she is my salvation, my deliverance from my
skeletons.
I now questioned whether I was worthy to even wear the holy cloth.
This isn't a story about love it is so much more than that
Father, this is my confession.
Father Canaan Sullivan and up and coming artist Haven Richardson went to the same Catholic school all those years ago that had an impact on both their lives, now 15 years later both have returned to their home town, both are still fighting their demons.
Father O'Brien taught me about sin
When they reunite a craving, longing is awoken in both of them, both try their hardest to fight their budding attraction. A man of the cloth such as Cannan is forbidden to love a woman. Haven tries immersing herself in her art, and Cannan questioning his chosen path.
Lust was something I learned to fear - Cannan
Don't be fooled by the synopsis it really is deceiving, it doesn't give much of an insight to really what's awaiting you once you start this book.
My soul doesn't believe in God
Nor does my mind
because he abandoned me a long
long time ago.
And forgiveness?
I'm not sure that's even a word.
Some secrets should remain buried.
Because I am temptation
Because I am tempted
Because I kept the truth to myself and others
paid the price for my silence.
This has a forbidden taboo relationship between a high standing Priest and a woman, it's just written so beautifully, but it's not just centered around them, but you do forget that taboo stigma and just connect with a story about a man falling in love with a woman as you transgress further into the story.
This book just had the right amount of everything, scriptures, the slow connection with the two main characters, these authors also went where not many travel, what happened to Canaan was handled sensitively and tastefully, as with anything of that subject matter in the past it was shoved under the rug and never brought up in the public eye so how these authors touched this was done so well.
I also loved how the secondary characters that were incorporated within this book had their own stories to tell.
***Teasers used are off the authors FB page***
"Terri E. Laine" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: A BEAUTIFUL SIN
AUTHOR: Terri E. Laine
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
CHAPTERS: 34 + Epilogue
RELEASE DATE: June 23th, 2016
Warning - A Beautiful Sin is a forbidden romance that blurs lines between passion and religious faith. Please be warned, the subject matter may be offensive to some readers.
MY RATING
A BEAUTIFUL SIN: (Told in 'Dual Perspectives' Canaan & Haven)
THEN: As far back as the age of fourteen Cannaan was an alter server who took his responsibilities seriously, even at such a young impressionable age he knew already that he wanted to become a priest. But Cannaan's teenage years were far from idyllic, a tortured, broken soul with the determination to commit to the church to cleanse his soul from all sins, seek forgiveness and absolution from higher above.
Church was my home
And someday would be my life.
Canaan and Haven met once as young teenagers, on a fateful night that had a tremendous impact on both their lives.
Twelve year old 'Haven' had a secret crush on 'Cannaa' for a while until that fateful night when she went seeking help from Father O'Brien but was intercepted by Cannaa and sent away, (My childhood crush had crushed me) .
When her mother passed away when she was twelve years old Haven was sent to live in an abusive environment with her Aunt and Uncle, she strives for the day when she turns eighteen and can leave.
God, why did you take Mum from me and send me to hell?
Father O'Brien had been my final hopethe last person who I thought could help me
but it was plain I wasn't worthy of him.
One left with scars marring the skin the other left with scars within
Reading what happened to these two in the past will leave you wide open for a ride on an emotional roller coaster. So gut wrenchingly raw.
NOW: Twenty-eight year old Canaan is reassigned to his local childhood parish now an ordained Roman Catholic priest, god and the church are his life forever and always. But going back to his past is like stepping back in time when all his nightmares reemerge.
My soul had been permanently cracked and scarred by the things that had transpired in the bowels of the
church. The day I left I vowed never to return.
But now and then he questions the path he has chosen, what if there were another he was mean't to take?
Forgive me father for I have sinned.
Sometimes we are given choiceschoices that are neither good nor evil,
mine walks in the form of something
beautiful, she is the temptation. Or perhaps
she is my salvation, my deliverance from my
skeletons.
I now questioned whether I was worthy to even wear the holy cloth.
This isn't a story about love it is so much more than that
Father, this is my confession.
Father Canaan Sullivan and up and coming artist Haven Richardson went to the same Catholic school all those years ago that had an impact on both their lives, now 15 years later both have returned to their home town, both are still fighting their demons.
Father O'Brien taught me about sin
When they reunite a craving, longing is awoken in both of them, both try their hardest to fight their budding attraction. A man of the cloth such as Cannan is forbidden to love a woman. Haven tries immersing herself in her art, and Cannan questioning his chosen path.
Lust was something I learned to fear - Cannan
Don't be fooled by the synopsis it really is deceiving, it doesn't give much of an insight to really what's awaiting you once you start this book.
My soul doesn't believe in GodNor does my mind
because he abandoned me a long
long time ago.
And forgiveness?
I'm not sure that's even a word.
Some secrets should remain buried.
Because I am temptationBecause I am tempted
Because I kept the truth to myself and others
paid the price for my silence.
This has a forbidden taboo relationship between a high standing Priest and a woman, it's just written so beautifully, but it's not just centered around them, but you do forget that taboo stigma and just connect with a story about a man falling in love with a woman as you transgress further into the story.
This book just had the right amount of everything, scriptures, the slow connection with the two main characters, these authors also went where not many travel, what happened to Canaan was handled sensitively and tastefully, as with anything of that subject matter in the past it was shoved under the rug and never brought up in the public eye so how these authors touched this was done so well.
I also loved how the secondary characters that were incorporated within this book had their own stories to tell.
***Teasers used are off the authors FB page***
June 24, 2016
✝✝✝✝4 Sinful Stars✝✝✝✝
"For every action we take, there are always consequences. And my biggest one was I allowed my heart to get wrapped up where it had no business being.
Father Canaan knew he wanted to be a Priest since he was a little boy. He has devoted his life to the church and nothing has ever been more important to him than his faith. But little did he knew that one faithful day when he was younger, would change the course of his future. How could one converation alter his future so rapidly and make him question everything?
"God and the church are my life, but sometimes we are given choices- choices that are neither good nor evil, but weigh heavily on one's soul.
Haven loves her job as an Artist and the one thing that she prides herself on is knowing that she's finally in control of her own life. After suffering a terrible childhood, who could blame her for living that way. But that control that she's worked so hard to get, is about to crumbling down with one phone call. They say you can't change the past but Haven is about to confront hers head on.
I have to say that I loved the premise of this story. This was more than just a love story for Canaan and Haven. We got to see Canaan's battle of his feelings for Haven and how it affected him not just as a person, but a spiritual one. His struggle was real and his conflications were portrayed in a way that made you feel for him. I also liked that Haven never tried to persuade Canaan and she knew when to back away. This was a story about finding love in the most unlikely places and believing in something that means so much to you while conquering your demons.
Will Canaan's faith lead him away from Haven?
Or will they both fight for he one thing that they never knew they wanted.
*Arc kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teasers used were taken from author's fb pages.
"For every action we take, there are always consequences. And my biggest one was I allowed my heart to get wrapped up where it had no business being.
Father Canaan knew he wanted to be a Priest since he was a little boy. He has devoted his life to the church and nothing has ever been more important to him than his faith. But little did he knew that one faithful day when he was younger, would change the course of his future. How could one converation alter his future so rapidly and make him question everything?
"God and the church are my life, but sometimes we are given choices- choices that are neither good nor evil, but weigh heavily on one's soul.
Haven loves her job as an Artist and the one thing that she prides herself on is knowing that she's finally in control of her own life. After suffering a terrible childhood, who could blame her for living that way. But that control that she's worked so hard to get, is about to crumbling down with one phone call. They say you can't change the past but Haven is about to confront hers head on.
I have to say that I loved the premise of this story. This was more than just a love story for Canaan and Haven. We got to see Canaan's battle of his feelings for Haven and how it affected him not just as a person, but a spiritual one. His struggle was real and his conflications were portrayed in a way that made you feel for him. I also liked that Haven never tried to persuade Canaan and she knew when to back away. This was a story about finding love in the most unlikely places and believing in something that means so much to you while conquering your demons.
Will Canaan's faith lead him away from Haven?
Or will they both fight for he one thing that they never knew they wanted.
*Arc kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teasers used were taken from author's fb pages.
June 25, 2016
I thought this would be a hard read for the fact it dealt with a Roman Catholic Priest. I was shocked how much I loved this story. Let me bullet the pros and cons.
Pros:
1. Very well written
2. The characters development is excellent
3. The hard issues were dealt in a sensitive manner
4. A very happy ending
Cons:
2. None.
Be warned this story is about domestic violence and child sexual abuse/molestation. This can trigger some people. I have to say the Authors did an excellent job in telling us about the issues at hand. This is a love story with a happy ending. Also includes a happy epilogue which left me in happy tears. Do I recommend this read? Absolutely yes.
Pros:
1. Very well written
2. The characters development is excellent
3. The hard issues were dealt in a sensitive manner
4. A very happy ending
Cons:
2. None.
Be warned this story is about domestic violence and child sexual abuse/molestation. This can trigger some people. I have to say the Authors did an excellent job in telling us about the issues at hand. This is a love story with a happy ending. Also includes a happy epilogue which left me in happy tears. Do I recommend this read? Absolutely yes.
June 23, 2016
A beautiful sin is a story of two people struggling with their demons. Demons that hunt them from the past, and they are still around in different kind of forms and won't let them find the peace they desire. Together but also seperately they will try to fight them off and the question is how is this story going to end and with what cost?
I truly enjoyed this story, it was so different from other stories I've read. To be honest, I had something very sexual and erotic in my mind when I first heard of this one, so I was surprised when I found out that it was not the case in this one. A beautiful sin has a much deeper subject and the storyline made me feel so sad for these characters.
I actually appreciated the fact that these authors don't hesitate to swim in deep waters. I came across with a topic here that I hadn't read before in a romance and even though it's a taboo , they dared and talked about it. I liked how they handled it, although I couldn't really understand a couple of things in the story, mostly some actions and thoughts by the characters, but I respect the fact that there must have been some reason behind them.
I love the writing style by these authors and their team work hasn't let me down so far, so I would recommend this to my friends. I think they handled this taboo issue pretty well, so I would love to hear about what others thought about it.
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! :)
I truly enjoyed this story, it was so different from other stories I've read. To be honest, I had something very sexual and erotic in my mind when I first heard of this one, so I was surprised when I found out that it was not the case in this one. A beautiful sin has a much deeper subject and the storyline made me feel so sad for these characters.
I actually appreciated the fact that these authors don't hesitate to swim in deep waters. I came across with a topic here that I hadn't read before in a romance and even though it's a taboo , they dared and talked about it. I liked how they handled it, although I couldn't really understand a couple of things in the story, mostly some actions and thoughts by the characters, but I respect the fact that there must have been some reason behind them.
I love the writing style by these authors and their team work hasn't let me down so far, so I would recommend this to my friends. I think they handled this taboo issue pretty well, so I would love to hear about what others thought about it.
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! :)
November 10, 2021
I just love when you find one of those perfect books where the author has not only taken them time to write compelling characters, but also to really dig into the emotional meat of the story. “A Beautiful Sin” gracefully and painfully takes us through all the ramifications of abuse through the eyes of various characters and allows them to stew, fester, churn out of control, and finally to heal in a rewarding way that was such a treat to read.
I loved Canaan and Haven’s relationship. The way they were so well matched. The way each of their personalities complemented and challenged the other. This was such a treat to read and I cannot wait to devour more by these authors.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
I loved Canaan and Haven’s relationship. The way they were so well matched. The way each of their personalities complemented and challenged the other. This was such a treat to read and I cannot wait to devour more by these authors.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
June 25, 2016
So well written but so hard to get through. Review to come.
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review
June 23, 2016
An emotional and dramatic forbidden romance – wow this book was a surprise!
4 stars
This book was really different from what I was expecting based on the synopsis. Not that I’m a perve or anything (much), but I was anticipating a forbidden romance full of sexy times. But instead, I got an emotional story that is equal parts drama and romance that had me captivated from start to finish.
Canaan was raised in the Catholic Church and felt a calling on his life from a very young age to dedicate his life to God. His teenage years were far from idyllic, yet only strengthened his resolve to commit his life to the church in an effort to cleanse his soul and seek redemption for his sins, and he is now an ordained Catholic Priest.
Haven childhood was pure torture. She suffered terribly at the hands of someone who was supposed to care for her, and though it has left its mark on her she has overcome her suffering to become a successful artist – her work very much fuelled by her turbulent emotions.
Canaan and Haven met once as teenagers, on a night that impacted them both greatly, in an encounter that would have far reaching consequences. 15 years later and they have both returned to their home town – Canaan has been assigned to his former church, and Haven’s artwork has earned her a show at a local gallery. Being back in the place where they suffered so terribly opens up a world of hurt for both of them, Canaan in particular, and that is only compounded when they see each other again.
OMG, the feels as these two re-enter each other’s lives are so powerful! So much anger, guilt and pain! They both have so much to deal with as their hearts and souls are torn open once again, and as they start to open up to each other and lean on each other for support, their feelings for each other start to deepen and they soon find themselves with a whole heap of new trouble.
Like I said before, this is not a smut book (although it does contain some love scenes). This is a heart-wrenching story of two people who are incredibly drawn to each other, but who simply cannot be together. Yes, the romance element is there, but it’s very strongly caught up in the guilt and turmoil that you would expect the characters to be feeling because of their situation.
Canaan’s journey is beautifully written. He is a good man who has completely committed himself to the church, and everything that he is feeling for Haven confuses and torments him. You can feel his anguish as he wrestles with his emotions and tries so hard to do what he thinks is right.
Haven has her own demons to deal with, and I really admire her strength and the way she handles her feelings for Canaan. She never pushes him, but she doesn’t hide from him either, and her actions and his responses felt very real, and I could understand them and empathise with everything that they are going through.
They both acknowledge what they are feelings, but try their hardest to resist the growing emotion between them, and it adds a great intensity to their story as they try their hardest to stay away from each other despite the fact that they are slowly and effortlessly falling in love.
This is the first book I have read by either of these authors, and I am so, so impressed with their storytelling. The book is written in dual POV, and they get us right to the heart of these characters and I felt everything right alongside them. It’s a heart-wrenching journey, not just as they deal with what they are feeling for each other, but as they finally face their pasts. There is some very serious subject matter in this book, some of which may be a trigger , but more than being just a love story, it’s a book about grief, guilt, pain and suffering, about friendship and love, moving forward and finding redemption.
As you would expect, there is a heavy religious aspect to the story. I am not a Catholic, and I admit that parts of this book went over my head with the amount of detail given (eg. the Catholic terminology and rituals), and I did find myself skimming some paragraphs, but it’s a huge part of who Canaan is, so I could understand the need for it, and it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story.
This was such a great read. Heartfelt and emotional, it deals with some very heavy topics, and while the authors don’t hold anything back, it’s done respectfully and meaningfully, and adds to the overall mood of the book. Canaan and Haven are great characters, and I loved their story. There is a lot of detail given, and readers can be sure that the story ends well, with all loose ends tied up and a gorgeous epilogue that finishes everything off perfectly.
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
This book was really different from what I was expecting based on the synopsis. Not that I’m a perve or anything (much), but I was anticipating a forbidden romance full of sexy times. But instead, I got an emotional story that is equal parts drama and romance that had me captivated from start to finish.
“Bless me, Father, for I have sinned…”
Canaan was raised in the Catholic Church and felt a calling on his life from a very young age to dedicate his life to God. His teenage years were far from idyllic, yet only strengthened his resolve to commit his life to the church in an effort to cleanse his soul and seek redemption for his sins, and he is now an ordained Catholic Priest.
Haven childhood was pure torture. She suffered terribly at the hands of someone who was supposed to care for her, and though it has left its mark on her she has overcome her suffering to become a successful artist – her work very much fuelled by her turbulent emotions.
Canaan and Haven met once as teenagers, on a night that impacted them both greatly, in an encounter that would have far reaching consequences. 15 years later and they have both returned to their home town – Canaan has been assigned to his former church, and Haven’s artwork has earned her a show at a local gallery. Being back in the place where they suffered so terribly opens up a world of hurt for both of them, Canaan in particular, and that is only compounded when they see each other again.
OMG, the feels as these two re-enter each other’s lives are so powerful! So much anger, guilt and pain! They both have so much to deal with as their hearts and souls are torn open once again, and as they start to open up to each other and lean on each other for support, their feelings for each other start to deepen and they soon find themselves with a whole heap of new trouble.
“Why is it that the only man I’ve ever been interested in has to be one I can’t ever have?”
Like I said before, this is not a smut book (although it does contain some love scenes). This is a heart-wrenching story of two people who are incredibly drawn to each other, but who simply cannot be together. Yes, the romance element is there, but it’s very strongly caught up in the guilt and turmoil that you would expect the characters to be feeling because of their situation.
She was all I could ever want and never have.
Canaan’s journey is beautifully written. He is a good man who has completely committed himself to the church, and everything that he is feeling for Haven confuses and torments him. You can feel his anguish as he wrestles with his emotions and tries so hard to do what he thinks is right.
It wasn’t supposed to be this way. A man of the cloth was forbidden to love a woman. Even with the wall I had attempted to construct, I had failed completely.
Haven has her own demons to deal with, and I really admire her strength and the way she handles her feelings for Canaan. She never pushes him, but she doesn’t hide from him either, and her actions and his responses felt very real, and I could understand them and empathise with everything that they are going through.
“You’ve turned out to be a man – a man I can trust and admire, a man I could love. But I know you could never love me back.”
They both acknowledge what they are feelings, but try their hardest to resist the growing emotion between them, and it adds a great intensity to their story as they try their hardest to stay away from each other despite the fact that they are slowly and effortlessly falling in love.
This is the first book I have read by either of these authors, and I am so, so impressed with their storytelling. The book is written in dual POV, and they get us right to the heart of these characters and I felt everything right alongside them. It’s a heart-wrenching journey, not just as they deal with what they are feeling for each other, but as they finally face their pasts. There is some very serious subject matter in this book, some of which may be a trigger , but more than being just a love story, it’s a book about grief, guilt, pain and suffering, about friendship and love, moving forward and finding redemption.
As you would expect, there is a heavy religious aspect to the story. I am not a Catholic, and I admit that parts of this book went over my head with the amount of detail given (eg. the Catholic terminology and rituals), and I did find myself skimming some paragraphs, but it’s a huge part of who Canaan is, so I could understand the need for it, and it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story.
This was such a great read. Heartfelt and emotional, it deals with some very heavy topics, and while the authors don’t hold anything back, it’s done respectfully and meaningfully, and adds to the overall mood of the book. Canaan and Haven are great characters, and I loved their story. There is a lot of detail given, and readers can be sure that the story ends well, with all loose ends tied up and a gorgeous epilogue that finishes everything off perfectly.
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2024
Forbidden Love
Taboo
Slow Burn
Surprise Pregnancy
Es un romance Taboo entre un sacerdote y una artista.
Ellos se conocieron cuando eran niños en el peor momento de su vida, el acababa de pasar por un evento traumático y pensó que la estaba protegiendo al alejarla pero nunca imaginó que la mandaría a las manos de un monstruo.
Años después, ella vuelve y se reencuentran ella lo odia porque pensó que él le quitó la oportunidad de alejarla de su tío que la golpeaba y se lo hace saber, ahora él se culpa por lo que le pasó y otra cosa más por lo que lamentarse y que atormentará.
Pensé que sería una historia al estilo Priest pero me la pasé llorando, tiene mucho angst y ellos pasaron por cosas muy dolorosas por lo que me alegré que tuvieran su final feliz
Taboo
Slow Burn
Surprise Pregnancy
Es un romance Taboo entre un sacerdote y una artista.
Ellos se conocieron cuando eran niños en el peor momento de su vida, el acababa de pasar por un evento traumático y pensó que la estaba protegiendo al alejarla pero nunca imaginó que la mandaría a las manos de un monstruo.
Años después, ella vuelve y se reencuentran ella lo odia porque pensó que él le quitó la oportunidad de alejarla de su tío que la golpeaba y se lo hace saber, ahora él se culpa por lo que le pasó y otra cosa más por lo que lamentarse y que atormentará.
Pensé que sería una historia al estilo Priest pero me la pasé llorando, tiene mucho angst y ellos pasaron por cosas muy dolorosas por lo que me alegré que tuvieran su final feliz
November 9, 2016
I absolutely love everything about book that got me hooked to the story only after flipping some pages.
Canaan Sullivan is the epitome of a much disciplined altar boy. He follows orders never questions, whatever he was summoned to do. Until someone of high authority breaks his trust and made Canaan believe that he deserves what’s being done to him by this despicable person. It gives him nightmares from that experience, as he grows into adulthood and eventually became a priest.
Haven Richardson is an up and coming artist living in New York. When an opportunity to come back to Chicago, her home town, it reminds Haven some bad memories while growing up. But now that she’s an adult, maybe she’ll have the courage to face the person who treated her badly when she’s young.
The meeting of these two damaged souls wasn’t pleasant at all and brings out the memories when they first met…
“Unbelievable. But why would you ever remember? Let me clue you in, Father.” She said the last like it was a curse. “When I was twelve, I came to the sacristy looking for help… and you”---she pointed a long, slender finger in my direction---“sent me away…”
That meeting may have been unpleasant, but as days go by, but Father Canaan and Haven became friends. They’ve become open to each other’s burden and the attraction is undeniable. But they must fight for they know nothing’s good will come out of it.
“Canaan, I’d better be going now. This is my way of saying goodbye. For good.”
The collaboration between Authors Terri E. Laine & A.M. Hargrove brings this unforgettable story about pain, love & forgiveness. Endearing characters Canaan & Haven is worth knowing and you will love Macie and wish she can be your BFF. I’ll definitely re-read this story in the days to come. If you’re into this kind of story you’ll surely fall in love with Canaan & Haven. A standalone that’s worth my time reading it!
June 27, 2016
Review to come!!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
June 27, 2016
A Beautiful Sin by Terri E Laine and AM Hargrove
3.5 stars!!
I do love a taboo book and I have loved the previous books that these two have collaborated on, so reading A Beautiful Sin was a no brainer for me. As with any Laine and Hargrove book the emotion was on point, the character development was spot on and the plot intriguing, captivating and stunningly beautiful, even though the subject matter, at times was not. But such is the talent of these two that even the most harrowing of storylines was delivered with sensitivity, empathy and just the right amount of clarity without it becoming salacious.
Canaan always knew that he would be a priest, from a young age he lived and breathed for the church, he went to catholic school, was an altar boy and went into the priesthood as soon as he could. He had never been kissed or touched by a woman, never felt the need to be either…until Haven came along. Canaan, though, had his issues, he used his faith to cover up his past but his past is now threatening to haunt him once again, he thought he had moved on, he thought his secrets would be hidden forever but fate has a way of making you confront your demons and the worst of his was about to make its presence felt.
Haven had a troubled childhood, her mother died when she was young and she was sent to live with her only surviving relative, her Aunt. Her Aunt was married to a cop and was physically and emotionally abused and it wasn’t long before he turned that abuse around onto Haven. She was battered by him and as he was a cop their plight would never be heard. Cops scratch each other’s backs so she just had to ride out her sentence until she was old enough to leave, when that time came she left and vowed never to return. She had sought help once, but it only ended with the worst beating of her life but it also put her into the path of her school crush, Canaan.
Canaan was dealing with his own issues when he first met Haven, they were teenagers and he thought he was doing the right thing in sending her away, he didn’t realise that he would be sending her back to a brute. Haven has harboured this hate for years, and now, as their paths cross once again as adults, that hate has festered and built, until she finally realises that the boy he once was bears no reflection of the man and priest he is today. They both have their secrets, both are too scared and too ashamed to admit, but together, could they be what the other needs the most…a friend, a shoulder to lighten the burden…but they could never be more…could they?
Haven was a talented artist and it is this that had brought her back to a place that she had vowed never to return too. Her Aunt is ill, still battered by her dreadful husband and it seems that life has never moved on for them two, but Haven vows to make a difference. Still troubled by her Uncle’s behaviour, Haven has to draw on some incredible inner strength to confront her past, but she does it head on, no matter the consequences.
Canaan’s live revolves around God and the church, he sees light and hope but the church is also his prison, mentally and emotionally. What should be a place of hope, is his dark, his tormentor and though he chose his life, he never thought he would have to return to his childhood town. Flooded with painful memories and a past he tries his hardest to forget he wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of deeply buried memories, scars and emotions.
Will these two find hope together, or will the church forever be their jailer?
While I was expecting a lot more taboo what I actually got was something better, that emotional rather than physical connection that is often the hardest to portray on a page. Canaan and Haven spent the majority of their time talking, conveying their thoughts and feelings through glances and facial expressions. You felt Canaan’s constant battle with himself over his beliefs and his feelings and I was really drawn into his internal ramblings, thoughts and feelings. With Haven, I wanted to understand her a bit better, I didn’t get that intense character connection that I had with Canaan and I wanted to understand her more, I felt her, I just didn’t live her. My only criticism was that I felt some elements were drawn out a little and some elements a little repetitive whereas other parts I wanted expanded, especially to really get to know these two inside out. There was one scene where I was desperate for more, it was such an important part of their story, so impactful, so altering and yet it was over too soon. Nonetheless, I loved it, I didn’t want it to end and I just wanted more. Yes, it covers some tough subjects, but I saw this for the story it was, the hurt and the bitterness was a means to an end for these two, they were bigger than pasts and their future was there for the taking.
www.theromancecover.com
3.5 stars!!
“This is not a love story, but rather a confession of all my sins.”
I do love a taboo book and I have loved the previous books that these two have collaborated on, so reading A Beautiful Sin was a no brainer for me. As with any Laine and Hargrove book the emotion was on point, the character development was spot on and the plot intriguing, captivating and stunningly beautiful, even though the subject matter, at times was not. But such is the talent of these two that even the most harrowing of storylines was delivered with sensitivity, empathy and just the right amount of clarity without it becoming salacious.
“My soul doesn’t believe in God, nor does my mind, because He abandoned me a long, long time ago. And forgiveness? I’m not sure that’s even a word.”
Canaan always knew that he would be a priest, from a young age he lived and breathed for the church, he went to catholic school, was an altar boy and went into the priesthood as soon as he could. He had never been kissed or touched by a woman, never felt the need to be either…until Haven came along. Canaan, though, had his issues, he used his faith to cover up his past but his past is now threatening to haunt him once again, he thought he had moved on, he thought his secrets would be hidden forever but fate has a way of making you confront your demons and the worst of his was about to make its presence felt.
“I’m a cancer, a poison to the soul. I don’t deserve your forgiveness.”
Haven had a troubled childhood, her mother died when she was young and she was sent to live with her only surviving relative, her Aunt. Her Aunt was married to a cop and was physically and emotionally abused and it wasn’t long before he turned that abuse around onto Haven. She was battered by him and as he was a cop their plight would never be heard. Cops scratch each other’s backs so she just had to ride out her sentence until she was old enough to leave, when that time came she left and vowed never to return. She had sought help once, but it only ended with the worst beating of her life but it also put her into the path of her school crush, Canaan.
“Why is it that the only man I’ve ever been interested in has to be one I can’t ever have?”
Canaan was dealing with his own issues when he first met Haven, they were teenagers and he thought he was doing the right thing in sending her away, he didn’t realise that he would be sending her back to a brute. Haven has harboured this hate for years, and now, as their paths cross once again as adults, that hate has festered and built, until she finally realises that the boy he once was bears no reflection of the man and priest he is today. They both have their secrets, both are too scared and too ashamed to admit, but together, could they be what the other needs the most…a friend, a shoulder to lighten the burden…but they could never be more…could they?
“Whatever happened that day haunts us both. And your scars match my own.”
Haven was a talented artist and it is this that had brought her back to a place that she had vowed never to return too. Her Aunt is ill, still battered by her dreadful husband and it seems that life has never moved on for them two, but Haven vows to make a difference. Still troubled by her Uncle’s behaviour, Haven has to draw on some incredible inner strength to confront her past, but she does it head on, no matter the consequences.
Canaan’s live revolves around God and the church, he sees light and hope but the church is also his prison, mentally and emotionally. What should be a place of hope, is his dark, his tormentor and though he chose his life, he never thought he would have to return to his childhood town. Flooded with painful memories and a past he tries his hardest to forget he wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of deeply buried memories, scars and emotions.
“For every action we take, there are always consequences. And my biggest one was I allowed my heart to get wrapped up where it had no business being.”
Will these two find hope together, or will the church forever be their jailer?
“…I can’t give you my heart, because you already own it, and I can’t give you my soul, because you already share it.”
While I was expecting a lot more taboo what I actually got was something better, that emotional rather than physical connection that is often the hardest to portray on a page. Canaan and Haven spent the majority of their time talking, conveying their thoughts and feelings through glances and facial expressions. You felt Canaan’s constant battle with himself over his beliefs and his feelings and I was really drawn into his internal ramblings, thoughts and feelings. With Haven, I wanted to understand her a bit better, I didn’t get that intense character connection that I had with Canaan and I wanted to understand her more, I felt her, I just didn’t live her. My only criticism was that I felt some elements were drawn out a little and some elements a little repetitive whereas other parts I wanted expanded, especially to really get to know these two inside out. There was one scene where I was desperate for more, it was such an important part of their story, so impactful, so altering and yet it was over too soon. Nonetheless, I loved it, I didn’t want it to end and I just wanted more. Yes, it covers some tough subjects, but I saw this for the story it was, the hurt and the bitterness was a means to an end for these two, they were bigger than pasts and their future was there for the taking.
“But oh, what a beautiful sin it was.”
www.theromancecover.com
June 26, 2016
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Title: A Beautiful Sin
Author: Terri E. Laine & A.M. Hargrove
Category: Forbidden Romance
POV: Dual POV
Plot:4
Characters: 4
Scorching Level: 3.75
HEA: Not telling
I love forbidden romances; the emotions and struggles they usually portray make for a very intense reading experience.
This book follows the story of Haven & Canaan. Canaan used to be deeply involved in his community's church; from an altar boy he turned out to be a priest. He now lives away from his home and away from the nightmares that go with it.
Haven has lived a very abusive life. She is now an up and coming artist with a lot of passion for her work. When she returns to her hometown, she crosses paths with the man that once ruined her chance at a better life.
These two people are connected by one single meeting that happened years ago and was a pivotal moment in both their lives. Haven since then, holds a deep contempt for Canaan and when they meet again she doesn't hesitate to be open about it.
Canaan does everything in his power to make Haven forgive him, but her wounds are as deep as his.
Watch them as they try to heal each other and make the demons go away.
This was an enjoyable read for me; I liked Canaan very much and I loved watching the inner turmoil of our characters as they try to comprehend and handle their feelings.
This was a forbidden romance to me, but the authors give a lot of attention to the characters' personal pain.
The one thing that felt a little off to me was how Haven blamed Canaan for what happened to her. I understand where she was coming from, but he was just a young boy himself and he couldn't possibly know what she was going through at the time. They were both very young. The one person who could have changed everything for Haven was her aunt, Kathy. She could have been the savior if she had been stronger, but then again fear plays a big part in every decision.
Overall, I liked this forbidden tale and I recommend it.
3.75~4 Stars
June 24, 2016
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 A Little Heaven on Earth Stars ~
Well I think it is safe to say that Terri E Laine and A.M. Hargrove can do no wrong when it comes to writing books together!! This is the third book by this duo that I have read and the books just keep getting better and better.
I will be honest when I say that A Beautiful Sin may not be for everyone. I myself was hesitant to read this book due to the subject content, but then I figured why not!!! I am glad that I did because this book wasn’t what I was expecting. There are a couple reasons I think some readers will have issues with this book, One being that this book covers the topic of abuse, so if you have a hard time reading about that, then this is a book you should pass on. Secondly this is a very taboo book and those who have strong religious beliefs may find this book offensive.
I personally enjoyed this book a lot. I thought the storyline was an emotional one and one that was handled with tact and decorum. This book is a forbidden love story on a taboo subject. What happens when the path you have chosen for yourself, turns out to be the wrong one?? What happens when you fall in love with someone you shouldn’t??? What happens when two people cross lines that they can’t uncross?? To get those answers you will need to read this book. I don’t want to really go into the storyline much. I think this is a book you just need to experience by yourself.
A Beautiful Sin is a standalone novel. In this book we meet Canaan and Haven. Both were very broken characters, but had so much in common. Both have sad and heartbreaking pasts and because of that they both have trouble trusting and live with enormous amount of Guilt. I truly loved both of these characters. They were both strong and weak in their own ways.
I would recommend this book to any reader who is a fan of the taboo/forbidden love story.
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~ 5 A Little Heaven on Earth Stars ~
Well I think it is safe to say that Terri E Laine and A.M. Hargrove can do no wrong when it comes to writing books together!! This is the third book by this duo that I have read and the books just keep getting better and better.
I will be honest when I say that A Beautiful Sin may not be for everyone. I myself was hesitant to read this book due to the subject content, but then I figured why not!!! I am glad that I did because this book wasn’t what I was expecting. There are a couple reasons I think some readers will have issues with this book, One being that this book covers the topic of abuse, so if you have a hard time reading about that, then this is a book you should pass on. Secondly this is a very taboo book and those who have strong religious beliefs may find this book offensive.
I personally enjoyed this book a lot. I thought the storyline was an emotional one and one that was handled with tact and decorum. This book is a forbidden love story on a taboo subject. What happens when the path you have chosen for yourself, turns out to be the wrong one?? What happens when you fall in love with someone you shouldn’t??? What happens when two people cross lines that they can’t uncross?? To get those answers you will need to read this book. I don’t want to really go into the storyline much. I think this is a book you just need to experience by yourself.
A Beautiful Sin is a standalone novel. In this book we meet Canaan and Haven. Both were very broken characters, but had so much in common. Both have sad and heartbreaking pasts and because of that they both have trouble trusting and live with enormous amount of Guilt. I truly loved both of these characters. They were both strong and weak in their own ways.
I would recommend this book to any reader who is a fan of the taboo/forbidden love story.
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June 17, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
“A beautiful sin” is the third book I read by these two amazing authors and I’m so glad I did it. They didn’t disappoint once again. Honestly, I don’t think they ever will.
I have to start by saying that “A beautiful sin” is indeed beautiful (in every possible way). ABS is about a romance between a priest and a parishioner. It touches very sensitive themes. And though it is not the first book I read focusing on this subject, I found myself devouring every single word of it. If by any chance you think that ABS is just another taboo story, I can assure you: it is not.
The story starts when Canaan is a young altar boy. Haven is a young girl too, living a life of abuse.
One day, their fates collides but for all the wrong reasons, Canaan sends Haven back to her house. And that fact alone will change both their lives and the way they see each other.
Years later, Canaan is an ordained Roman Catholic priest and Haven is a rising artist with a talent out of the ordinary for painting.
Canaan is a very catholic man, living by the rules of God. His character is so very well developed that is difficult to describe him. His life is determined by events of the past but you can see that behind the priest, there is a man. A man like every other man. He is the figure of a troubled man, that finds himself questioning if he is in the right path. What if God had other plans and wanted him to be someone else?
Haven is a broken soul, trying to live her life, trying to forget the past and the person that hurt her to the bones. But she didn’t forget Canaan or the day that he sent her away. She didn’t forgive him either. But the truth is she never knew he was just trying to protect her.
When they meet again, after all these years, the flame ignites. A. M. and Terri did such a wonderful job writing this book! Knowing that the subjects may be sensitive for some readers, they wrote this story with careful. The subjects are there and you can’t hide. But they wrote it in a thoughtful style. They will lead you to the characters minds and see that above everything else, they are human. A man and a woman. Just like Adam and Eve. They’re not perfect, they have flaws. They committed sins. Does that make them sinners? That’s the one million dollar question.
For those afraid of the sensitive subject, I have to say that though the sexual tension is almost palpable, the sex scenes turn out to be tender and not as explicit as in other books from the same genre (which is fine by me). They are beautiful nevertheless.
I particularly enjoyed seeing Canaan undress the holy vestments (pun intended) and discover the pleasures of life. It’s not often that the heroine is more experienced than the hero. This part of the story, the discovery of his inner sexuality, is absolutely wonderful and one of the things that captivated me.
I took my time reading this book. I felt this need. ABS is a story that will put you face to face with the turmoil of a man that happens to be a priest.
I loved Canaan and his innocence and Haven and her feisty attitude. They both endured so much!
The secondary characters are very well conceived too and deserve their own credits: Macie, Kathy, Kent, Bill, Father Tony, Jonathon and Canaan’s parents.
It’s the kind of story that you don’t want to end because you don’t want to say goodbye to the characters. But the end is so perfect! It's everything I ever wanted and wished for them.
There were times in the book that I had to stop and think. Reflect. “A beautiful sin” makes you think. Makes you feel.
In the end, “A beautiful sin” is a love story about two broken souls, looking for redemption. It is, hands down, a powerful and heart-wrenching love story.
I’m sure this book is a winner and will hit the USA Today bestselling list in no time.
It will stay with me for a very, very long time. Canaan won with merit his own place in my special shelf.
- Creativity: 5 stars
- Cover: 5 stars
- Plot: 5 stars
- Characters: 5 stars
- Darkness: N/A
- End: 5 stars
- Hotness: 5 stars
- Angst: 4 stars
- Editing: 5 stars
I give it 5 holy stars.
Thank you A. M. and Terri for this epic and incredible story.
“A beautiful sin” is the third book I read by these two amazing authors and I’m so glad I did it. They didn’t disappoint once again. Honestly, I don’t think they ever will.
I have to start by saying that “A beautiful sin” is indeed beautiful (in every possible way). ABS is about a romance between a priest and a parishioner. It touches very sensitive themes. And though it is not the first book I read focusing on this subject, I found myself devouring every single word of it. If by any chance you think that ABS is just another taboo story, I can assure you: it is not.
The story starts when Canaan is a young altar boy. Haven is a young girl too, living a life of abuse.
One day, their fates collides but for all the wrong reasons, Canaan sends Haven back to her house. And that fact alone will change both their lives and the way they see each other.
Years later, Canaan is an ordained Roman Catholic priest and Haven is a rising artist with a talent out of the ordinary for painting.
Canaan is a very catholic man, living by the rules of God. His character is so very well developed that is difficult to describe him. His life is determined by events of the past but you can see that behind the priest, there is a man. A man like every other man. He is the figure of a troubled man, that finds himself questioning if he is in the right path. What if God had other plans and wanted him to be someone else?
Haven is a broken soul, trying to live her life, trying to forget the past and the person that hurt her to the bones. But she didn’t forget Canaan or the day that he sent her away. She didn’t forgive him either. But the truth is she never knew he was just trying to protect her.
When they meet again, after all these years, the flame ignites. A. M. and Terri did such a wonderful job writing this book! Knowing that the subjects may be sensitive for some readers, they wrote this story with careful. The subjects are there and you can’t hide. But they wrote it in a thoughtful style. They will lead you to the characters minds and see that above everything else, they are human. A man and a woman. Just like Adam and Eve. They’re not perfect, they have flaws. They committed sins. Does that make them sinners? That’s the one million dollar question.
For those afraid of the sensitive subject, I have to say that though the sexual tension is almost palpable, the sex scenes turn out to be tender and not as explicit as in other books from the same genre (which is fine by me). They are beautiful nevertheless.
I particularly enjoyed seeing Canaan undress the holy vestments (pun intended) and discover the pleasures of life. It’s not often that the heroine is more experienced than the hero. This part of the story, the discovery of his inner sexuality, is absolutely wonderful and one of the things that captivated me.
I took my time reading this book. I felt this need. ABS is a story that will put you face to face with the turmoil of a man that happens to be a priest.
I loved Canaan and his innocence and Haven and her feisty attitude. They both endured so much!
The secondary characters are very well conceived too and deserve their own credits: Macie, Kathy, Kent, Bill, Father Tony, Jonathon and Canaan’s parents.
It’s the kind of story that you don’t want to end because you don’t want to say goodbye to the characters. But the end is so perfect! It's everything I ever wanted and wished for them.
There were times in the book that I had to stop and think. Reflect. “A beautiful sin” makes you think. Makes you feel.
In the end, “A beautiful sin” is a love story about two broken souls, looking for redemption. It is, hands down, a powerful and heart-wrenching love story.
I’m sure this book is a winner and will hit the USA Today bestselling list in no time.
It will stay with me for a very, very long time. Canaan won with merit his own place in my special shelf.
- Creativity: 5 stars
- Cover: 5 stars
- Plot: 5 stars
- Characters: 5 stars
- Darkness: N/A
- End: 5 stars
- Hotness: 5 stars
- Angst: 4 stars
- Editing: 5 stars
I give it 5 holy stars.
Thank you A. M. and Terri for this epic and incredible story.
June 28, 2016
The title and the book blurb says a lot. I read the warning too. I've read a couple of books with
forbidden love as the trope and with a H that's a priest. This isn't just from the H (Canaan)
POV, it also has the h (Haven) POV.
The first 2 chapters or so is really heart breaking- for both Haven and for Canaan.
What each of them goes through, is very topical.
The rest of the story is 14 or so years later. Chicago. Centered around the Holy Cross Catholic Church.
Haven and Canaan had known each other from school- when they'd attended 14 yrs before.
Canaan's mom & dad still live in the neighborhood. He's very close to his parents and they're very supportive and proud of their son. Canaan is selected to become associate pastor of the church.
Haven comes back to the Chicago for work. She's an artist that was living in NYC after she graduated from Holy Cross school. She was raised by her aunt & uncle (after her mother passed away when she was very young). Haven is very bitter and guarded but does have a best friend (Macie) from her childhood.
Haven hasn't been shown much love but starts to let her guard down with Canaan.
I'm not a Catholic, so I learned some of the customs of the church. Canaan is a very good priest, but is torn by memories of being a young boy at the same church.
I really liked the chemistry between Haven and Canaan. I wish that more time could have been spent on the development of their relationship. Haven had major issues to deal with her aunt and uncle.
Haven and Canaan each had their own villain to deal with. Haven was very confrontational, Canaan kept it all inside.
I kept rooting for them and trying to find a way for them to be together.
Haven's aunt and uncle took up a lot of the time in the story. It's plain to see why she was so bitter.
I was in complete sympathy for Haven and Canaan & Haven's Aunt Kathy.
I felt so bad when Canaan held it all in what he had gone through.
I liked the ending and the epilogue. It seemed a little rushed.
I received a copy from the authors. I will definitely read more from them.
forbidden love as the trope and with a H that's a priest. This isn't just from the H (Canaan)
POV, it also has the h (Haven) POV.
The first 2 chapters or so is really heart breaking- for both Haven and for Canaan.
What each of them goes through, is very topical.
The rest of the story is 14 or so years later. Chicago. Centered around the Holy Cross Catholic Church.
Haven and Canaan had known each other from school- when they'd attended 14 yrs before.
Canaan's mom & dad still live in the neighborhood. He's very close to his parents and they're very supportive and proud of their son. Canaan is selected to become associate pastor of the church.
Haven comes back to the Chicago for work. She's an artist that was living in NYC after she graduated from Holy Cross school. She was raised by her aunt & uncle (after her mother passed away when she was very young). Haven is very bitter and guarded but does have a best friend (Macie) from her childhood.
Haven hasn't been shown much love but starts to let her guard down with Canaan.
I'm not a Catholic, so I learned some of the customs of the church. Canaan is a very good priest, but is torn by memories of being a young boy at the same church.
I really liked the chemistry between Haven and Canaan. I wish that more time could have been spent on the development of their relationship. Haven had major issues to deal with her aunt and uncle.
Haven and Canaan each had their own villain to deal with. Haven was very confrontational, Canaan kept it all inside.
I kept rooting for them and trying to find a way for them to be together.
Haven's aunt and uncle took up a lot of the time in the story. It's plain to see why she was so bitter.
I was in complete sympathy for Haven and Canaan & Haven's Aunt Kathy.
I felt so bad when Canaan held it all in what he had gone through.
I liked the ending and the epilogue. It seemed a little rushed.
I received a copy from the authors. I will definitely read more from them.
June 5, 2016
The duo of A.M Hargrove and Terri E. Laine who are known for their unique plot twist and turns has us once again captivated by this priest who from the beginning makes us want to drop to our knees and worship!
A Beautiful Sin is a story of how a priest finds faith and hope in the most unlikely place and a girl who is looking for peace from her stormy past.
I’m going to try and tell you about this book without getting carried away and telling you all the juicy details…
Canaan has never wanted anything more than to be a priest, even at the early age of 12. Unfortunately, he believes he is a sinner and will never be redeemable in the eyes of God because he will always be a visual temptation to others. (Canaan has always been “beautiful” even at an early age). So he goes his whole life punishing his self even though he has never had an impure thought or feeling for a women.
Then there is Haven – who at the age of 12 went to the church to seek help only to be turned away by the one guy she crushed on the most, the cute altar boy, Canaan. He was harsh to her and sent her away and back to the home of her abusive uncle. She would spend the next few years in Hell and blamed the one person who could have helped her – Canaan.
Years later they meet up again but now Canaan is a priest. And this is where I stop with the words from Canaan……
My name is Canaan I am an
ordained Roman Catholic priest,
forever and always.
Her name is Haven. She may be
my destiny, my destruction.
This is not a love story, but rather
a confession of all my sins.
If that “small” confession doesn’t grab you – just know this book is a definite 5 star sinful delight! Just Read It!
A Beautiful Sin is a story of how a priest finds faith and hope in the most unlikely place and a girl who is looking for peace from her stormy past.
I’m going to try and tell you about this book without getting carried away and telling you all the juicy details…
Canaan has never wanted anything more than to be a priest, even at the early age of 12. Unfortunately, he believes he is a sinner and will never be redeemable in the eyes of God because he will always be a visual temptation to others. (Canaan has always been “beautiful” even at an early age). So he goes his whole life punishing his self even though he has never had an impure thought or feeling for a women.
Then there is Haven – who at the age of 12 went to the church to seek help only to be turned away by the one guy she crushed on the most, the cute altar boy, Canaan. He was harsh to her and sent her away and back to the home of her abusive uncle. She would spend the next few years in Hell and blamed the one person who could have helped her – Canaan.
Years later they meet up again but now Canaan is a priest. And this is where I stop with the words from Canaan……
My name is Canaan I am an
ordained Roman Catholic priest,
forever and always.
Her name is Haven. She may be
my destiny, my destruction.
This is not a love story, but rather
a confession of all my sins.
If that “small” confession doesn’t grab you – just know this book is a definite 5 star sinful delight! Just Read It!
August 3, 2016
Title: A Beautiful Sin
Series: (Standalone)
Author: Terri E. Lane & A.M. Hargrove
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Rating: 5-Stars, favorite
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Safe:
Blog: HERE
♥ A Beautiful Sin
Absolute in its temptation—a book that will seduce you into its heartfelt pages...full review to come
Hero: 5-Stars
Heroine: 4.5-Stars
Romance: 4.5-Stars
Sex: 4.5-Stars
Plot: 4.5-Stars
Dialogue: 5-Stars
Writing: 5-Stars
♠ ♥ ♣ ♦
PS: I was given a complementary copy of this book. But I do solemnly swear that I am up to...good. *wink* This is a fair, honest review and/or rating(s) of this book, pinky promise.
July 6, 2017
I prefer to read books without religious affiliations, however the synopsis intrigued me. Male protagonist, Canaan is an incredibly devoted Roman Catholic priest, and has followed the path of God since he was a child.
I really didn't like it. Not my cup of tea. He was seriously misguided in his thoughts. It was a mass of contradictions, (inflicting lashes on himself for sinning, and trying to reason with her violent uncle?) She didn't inspire his protective instincts even when she got beaten up. She was silly (blaming him for being standoffish at 14), and honestly reading about them was like watching paint dry.
I liked one scene so the extra star goes to that: the heroine gives a painting to the hero as a parting gift and they share a kiss.
Other than that, he never stepped up until the very end and was a little cowardly to be honest. I understand it was hard as he committed to something so stringently, but own up to your mistakes.
Plus the church keeping a lid on the sexual abuse and paying off the victims was disturbing to me.
I really didn't like it. Not my cup of tea. He was seriously misguided in his thoughts. It was a mass of contradictions, (inflicting lashes on himself for sinning, and trying to reason with her violent uncle?) She didn't inspire his protective instincts even when she got beaten up. She was silly (blaming him for being standoffish at 14), and honestly reading about them was like watching paint dry.
I liked one scene so the extra star goes to that: the heroine gives a painting to the hero as a parting gift and they share a kiss.
Other than that, he never stepped up until the very end and was a little cowardly to be honest. I understand it was hard as he committed to something so stringently, but own up to your mistakes.
Plus the church keeping a lid on the sexual abuse and paying off the victims was disturbing to me.
June 23, 2016
Father Bell got some competition!
June 29, 2016
This is a forbidden romance story with a bit of a twist. Canaan and Haven went through some pretty bad childhood traumas. Maybe that's why they were so drawn to eathother. The forbidden part? Canaan is a Roman Catholic Priest.
Even though they knew it was a big no no, they still continued to see eachother. At first, Canaan just wanted Haven's forgiveness. He felt responsible for Haven's living nightmare. Then it progressed into a "friendship." When fireworks go off like the Fourth of July, they try to stay away from eachother. But they bond and I think in a way they healed eachother.
Another awesome story by Terri & A.M. I couldn't wait till the ending! I may have cheated a bit. I know horrible. Whenever I see books by either author coming out, I do my happy bookworm dance. (Basically, it's a nerd dance with My Kindle in my hands.)
Read My Entire Review Of "A Beautiful Sin:" http://tinyurl.com/hzts9qk
June 28, 2016
“Amazaboobs!’
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I could not put this book down and read it in one sitting. My initial thoughts upon finishing it was what a beautiful story this was. The writing was smooth and hooked me from the very beginning, it was sensitive of the subject matter and very emotional. Canaan’s character was absolutely captivating, he shined, he’s a bright light and beautiful soul.
With that said I’m having a hard time rating A Beautiful Sin. I wanted a bit more romance and connection between Canaan and Haven and didn’t quite feel the attraction between these two characters. Maybe it was because I wasn't as invested in Haven’s character as I was Canaan.
I just wanted a bit more. I also felt like a lot of the characters were very cliche and the story was a bit predictable which is why I rated it lower. I don’t want to give any spoilers away so I will leave it that.
I definitely recommend this book, I enjoyed it, it made me cry, and it was absolutely beautiful book about love, forgiveness, and redemption.
January 1, 2020
5++ Beautiful Stars!
*ARC received in exchange for review*
Two broken souls.
Facing inner demons.
One destiny.
Seeking redemption from their pasts.
I don't know where to begin.
But for starters, here's me freshly after finishing the book and opening GR to review :
That aside,this book..this book completely wrecked me. Maybe I was too filled up already because of reading a heavy book yesterday but then this added into it in the most brutal way possible. I mean,I will admit to that absolute disturbed feeling after I read THAT chapter but.. Then I knew I'm gonna have to keep reading if I ever wanna feel sane.
An absolutely beautiful book.
I loved Canaan but OH God how I loved Haven.. It's very very rare for me to fall in love with a heroine because authors make us fall in love with a hero easily,making him sexy and perfect and all gentleman and being a girl who is obsessed with reading, ofcourse I cannot resist that shit..obviously..
Anyway ,like I was saying. Haven was strong, so very strong, determined, smart, beautiful and so,it bears repeating,very very strong
And Canaan was such a darling.. Such a man, such an absolute love. He was so honest and he had a pure soul, well.. okay I am about to cry again..
I loved every moment of this book.
Again, I am super thankful for the ARC. Much love to the authors.
*ARC received in exchange for review*
Two broken souls.
Facing inner demons.
One destiny.
Seeking redemption from their pasts.
I don't know where to begin.
But for starters, here's me freshly after finishing the book and opening GR to review :
That aside,this book..this book completely wrecked me. Maybe I was too filled up already because of reading a heavy book yesterday but then this added into it in the most brutal way possible. I mean,I will admit to that absolute disturbed feeling after I read THAT chapter but.. Then I knew I'm gonna have to keep reading if I ever wanna feel sane.
An absolutely beautiful book.
I loved Canaan but OH God how I loved Haven.. It's very very rare for me to fall in love with a heroine because authors make us fall in love with a hero easily,making him sexy and perfect and all gentleman and being a girl who is obsessed with reading, ofcourse I cannot resist that shit..obviously..
Anyway ,like I was saying. Haven was strong, so very strong, determined, smart, beautiful and so,it bears repeating,very very strong
And Canaan was such a darling.. Such a man, such an absolute love. He was so honest and he had a pure soul, well.. okay I am about to cry again..
I loved every moment of this book.
Again, I am super thankful for the ARC. Much love to the authors.
June 19, 2016
Do not judge this story based on it's blurb. Yes, there is a love story involved but it's not the focus. The characters both return home, back to confront the demons of their past. Honestly, I had to stop reading at one point to take a breather. Their stories are emotionally draining. The love story provided the HEA that was much needed after the painful revelations of their past.
Haven's newly found success has brought her back home to Chicago. In returning home she faces her past while trying to protect her aunt. Haven at one time had tried to seek help with her situation when she was younger. She went to a church but was turned away. Her anger still lingers and now fifteen years after the incident she returns to the church and thrashes out at the alter boy, now Priest, who sent her back to the house of hell.
Canaan has been selected to become the associate Pastor of his childhood church. "Holy Cross was a place I vowed to never to return to and hadn't." When he returns home he not only has to face his own demons but soon discovers he also will need to face the demons of others from his past. Canaan internal struggle with self blame only grows until finds his safe haven.
The story is deep, the characters struggle with their internal demons from their past. The first half is heartbreaking, my soul ached for Canaan and Haven. They find themselves unexpectedly returning home and having to face their demons. Each has to find the strength to release their own pain. It's together they discover it's possible. 5 Stars!
Haven's newly found success has brought her back home to Chicago. In returning home she faces her past while trying to protect her aunt. Haven at one time had tried to seek help with her situation when she was younger. She went to a church but was turned away. Her anger still lingers and now fifteen years after the incident she returns to the church and thrashes out at the alter boy, now Priest, who sent her back to the house of hell.
Canaan has been selected to become the associate Pastor of his childhood church. "Holy Cross was a place I vowed to never to return to and hadn't." When he returns home he not only has to face his own demons but soon discovers he also will need to face the demons of others from his past. Canaan internal struggle with self blame only grows until finds his safe haven.
The story is deep, the characters struggle with their internal demons from their past. The first half is heartbreaking, my soul ached for Canaan and Haven. They find themselves unexpectedly returning home and having to face their demons. Each has to find the strength to release their own pain. It's together they discover it's possible. 5 Stars!
May 29, 2016
4.5 Stars
This book wasn't what I was expecting. I went into this book blind. If you've read the other books by Am Hargrove and Terri E Laine you'd think it was going to be Jenna's story, but it isn't. So imagine my surprise when I thought I was getting a HAWT love triangle and it isn't. This book won't be for everyone. It is a taboo story, but I LOVED it!!
I felt so much sadness for Canaan and Haven. They both lived very difficult lives and they both went two separate ways to forget about their pasts.
Haven has so much hate for the boy who sent her away from help. She knew if she could see the Father that he'd help her get out of a bad situation, but when she got there a boy told her to go away. And to her that was the downfall to her life. It sent her straight back into the Devils hands. Can she save herself?
Canaan has always wanted to be a priest. That's been his journey and what's kept him going. He knows going back home is going to be a bad thing, but he doesn't have a choice. Can he finally learn to handle everything that happened to him?
Haven and Canaan are two characters that you can't help feeling bad for. For wanting to see them both succeed in fighting their demons. Amazing read and I can't wait to see what else Am Hargrove and Terri E Laine have in store for us!!
This book wasn't what I was expecting. I went into this book blind. If you've read the other books by Am Hargrove and Terri E Laine you'd think it was going to be Jenna's story, but it isn't. So imagine my surprise when I thought I was getting a HAWT love triangle and it isn't. This book won't be for everyone. It is a taboo story, but I LOVED it!!
I felt so much sadness for Canaan and Haven. They both lived very difficult lives and they both went two separate ways to forget about their pasts.
Haven has so much hate for the boy who sent her away from help. She knew if she could see the Father that he'd help her get out of a bad situation, but when she got there a boy told her to go away. And to her that was the downfall to her life. It sent her straight back into the Devils hands. Can she save herself?
Canaan has always wanted to be a priest. That's been his journey and what's kept him going. He knows going back home is going to be a bad thing, but he doesn't have a choice. Can he finally learn to handle everything that happened to him?
Haven and Canaan are two characters that you can't help feeling bad for. For wanting to see them both succeed in fighting their demons. Amazing read and I can't wait to see what else Am Hargrove and Terri E Laine have in store for us!!
May 28, 2016
I was given this book as an arc. I have read all Terri's books and thought i knew what to expect, but boy was i wrong! This book will make you feel sad and then happy smiling all on the same page. It didnt offend me in anyway. The characters are described well from the start and you feel like you know them by the end. The story is not a typical love story but that is what makes this story fab! All i can say is please read it as i am positive you will enjoy and love it like me! It left me with a massive happy smile on my face at the end. Life is not all plain sailing and this books shows you you can still be happy after tragedy. Thank you are an exciting and different look on life! A must read for sure!!
June 26, 2016
Title: A Beautiful Sin
Author: Terri E. Laine and A.M. Hargrove
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: June 23, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 330 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This is the first book that I have read by this writing team. Although the subject matter was controversial and taboo, I enjoyed reading this story. Yes there is some triggers with abuse so this may not be a good fit for you. The plot introduces us to Canaan, a young, hot catholic priest. He alway felt the calling to serve the lord and his people. Even as a young man serving as an altar server at mass. At a young age he was punished and sexually abused by a priest in his parish because he was a temptation. Now as an adult he is assigned to the parish that he grew up in and must face his demons. Haven grew up in the same parish and had a crush on Canaan. She also had a horrible life at the hands of an abusive Uncle. Now years later she returns to the town that she grew up in not only to face the uncle that tormented her, and the person that she feels destroyed her by turning her away when she sought help from the church. The chemistry between Canaan and Haven is very strong. Fighting it just doesn't make a difference. This is a longer book, but it reads quickly. I don’t think I stopped reading until I finished. This book had a good ending. There was strong character development throughout the story.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of A Beautiful Sin provided by the Terrie Laine and A. M. Hargrove for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Terri E. Laine and A.M. Hargrove
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: June 23, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count: 330 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
***From USA Today Bestselling Authors, A.M. Hargrove and Terri E. Laine, comes a standalone, Forbidden Love Story.
Since I was a boy, my desire was to marry the church. To give my vows and life over to God despite the corruption in my soul.
I am a sinner, the embodiment of temptation, or so I’ve been told.
Yet, I’ve never touched, never kissed, never sought the company of another until her.
She is my weakness, my salvation, my downfall and my freedom. Our sins are bound tighter than fate.
My name is Canaan. I am an ordained Roman Catholic priest, forever and always.
Her name is Haven. She may be my destiny, my destruction.
This is not a love story, but rather a confession of all my sins.
*Warning – A Beautiful Sin is a forbidden romance that blurs the lines between passion and religious faith. Please be warned, the subject matter may be offensive to some readers.
Review:
This is the first book that I have read by this writing team. Although the subject matter was controversial and taboo, I enjoyed reading this story. Yes there is some triggers with abuse so this may not be a good fit for you. The plot introduces us to Canaan, a young, hot catholic priest. He alway felt the calling to serve the lord and his people. Even as a young man serving as an altar server at mass. At a young age he was punished and sexually abused by a priest in his parish because he was a temptation. Now as an adult he is assigned to the parish that he grew up in and must face his demons. Haven grew up in the same parish and had a crush on Canaan. She also had a horrible life at the hands of an abusive Uncle. Now years later she returns to the town that she grew up in not only to face the uncle that tormented her, and the person that she feels destroyed her by turning her away when she sought help from the church. The chemistry between Canaan and Haven is very strong. Fighting it just doesn't make a difference. This is a longer book, but it reads quickly. I don’t think I stopped reading until I finished. This book had a good ending. There was strong character development throughout the story.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of A Beautiful Sin provided by the Terrie Laine and A. M. Hargrove for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews