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Priestly Sins
My name is Father Sean O’Ryan.
I’m not a typical priest; I am a son and a friend.
I’m also all man.
The collar allows me to do what I need—mete out vengeance that drives my every thought and action.
Justice is the only thing that matters until… her.
Sirona is smart and talented, not to mention beautiful. But when she enters the confessional, I know she’s hiding something.
Now I have two goals—retribution and a life after with Sirona.
Be forewarned, your cries for mercy are music to my ears. I have no compassion for sins, no faith in your feeble repentance.
Think twice before confessing, “Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned.”
I’m not a typical priest; I am a son and a friend.
I’m also all man.
The collar allows me to do what I need—mete out vengeance that drives my every thought and action.
Justice is the only thing that matters until… her.
Sirona is smart and talented, not to mention beautiful. But when she enters the confessional, I know she’s hiding something.
Now I have two goals—retribution and a life after with Sirona.
Be forewarned, your cries for mercy are music to my ears. I have no compassion for sins, no faith in your feeble repentance.
Think twice before confessing, “Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned.”
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2021
66 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Hadley Finn
9 books110 followersHadley believes strongly in the healing power of salsa, is fully and unapologetically addicted to coffee, and feels it’s her duty to keep the book world financially viable by bingeing great stories that are wonderfully told. She also loves adverbs.
Hadley loves to cook, dance, and have conversations with the figments of her imagination.
For newsletter & more, visit: hadleyfinn.com
Hadley loves to cook, dance, and have conversations with the figments of her imagination.
For newsletter & more, visit: hadleyfinn.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 25, 2021
Wow. Just…wow. Get ready for a priest with a mission, a man with a heart and soul battling for justice, and the woman who may very well be the key to it all. Sean is a good man, even if His methods are sometimes unconventional. And Sirona is a good woman trapped in a monster of a mess that wasn’t hers, but has become her inheritance in this world. But if Sean can save her and her daughter, then is the method truly wrong? Are the actions unjust or evil? Or is nothing truly as it seems here….
I wasn’t quite sure where we were going at first, but this book blew me away with the subterfuge, the twists, the sheer evilness of some men and their demand to be on top, no matter who they crush during that climb. I loved Sean and his devotion to family, both by choice and the blood he never knew he had. And when the secrets all come out, everything makes so much sense. Trust me. This is a ride you don’t want to miss because it’s unlike just about anything you could imagine.
I wasn’t quite sure where we were going at first, but this book blew me away with the subterfuge, the twists, the sheer evilness of some men and their demand to be on top, no matter who they crush during that climb. I loved Sean and his devotion to family, both by choice and the blood he never knew he had. And when the secrets all come out, everything makes so much sense. Trust me. This is a ride you don’t want to miss because it’s unlike just about anything you could imagine.
October 12, 2021
☆☆☆Sean and Senora are one of my top couples of 2021!!☆☆☆
If I did not know, I would never have guessed this was Hadley Finn's first novel!! The writing is impeccable, the suspense is heart-pounding, and the relationship between Senora and Sean is phenomenal!!
I'm not going to lie, if you don't like a little Dark Romance mixed with some forbidden and taboo topics, please check your triggers before reading this book.
I want to telly all to go in completely blind, that's the best way to do it, but I know people probably won't do that.
Sean is a priest... and a murderer? Why? Is he an antihero, or a Villain? Senora is a beautiful baker who seems to have a problem, but is it a problem she created, or a problem she was thrust into?
By the time you reach 50% you might be questioning the outcome a little, it all seems wrapped up and what is Ms. Finn going to fill the rest of the book with? This is the tipping point, don't look away, don't skip a paragraph, and Heaven help you if you do, Hadley's got you now!!
There were times I had to get up and put the book down I was so worried/excited about what was going to happen next, and there's no way anyone sees that twist coming! I only have two questions for Ms. Finn: What is your next book about, and when can I have it??
10/10 for this debut authors first novel, Priestly Sins will knock you flat!!
If I did not know, I would never have guessed this was Hadley Finn's first novel!! The writing is impeccable, the suspense is heart-pounding, and the relationship between Senora and Sean is phenomenal!!
I'm not going to lie, if you don't like a little Dark Romance mixed with some forbidden and taboo topics, please check your triggers before reading this book.
I want to telly all to go in completely blind, that's the best way to do it, but I know people probably won't do that.
Sean is a priest... and a murderer? Why? Is he an antihero, or a Villain? Senora is a beautiful baker who seems to have a problem, but is it a problem she created, or a problem she was thrust into?
By the time you reach 50% you might be questioning the outcome a little, it all seems wrapped up and what is Ms. Finn going to fill the rest of the book with? This is the tipping point, don't look away, don't skip a paragraph, and Heaven help you if you do, Hadley's got you now!!
There were times I had to get up and put the book down I was so worried/excited about what was going to happen next, and there's no way anyone sees that twist coming! I only have two questions for Ms. Finn: What is your next book about, and when can I have it??
10/10 for this debut authors first novel, Priestly Sins will knock you flat!!
October 10, 2021
Hands down one of the best “first novels” I’ve ever read!
It is unfathomable to me that this is Hadley Finn’s first novel. I have read books from authors that have published countless books, but many of those could not touch the greatness of Priestly Sons. This story was phenomenal! No bones about it. Ms Finn’s plot was unique and pulled me in from the first page and I literally did not put it down until I finished (7 hours later). I am still in awe of this book and the incredible writing of this new author! Hands down one of the best “first novels” I have ever read! Also I am in love with these characters, especially little Clara❤️❤️
It is unfathomable to me that this is Hadley Finn’s first novel. I have read books from authors that have published countless books, but many of those could not touch the greatness of Priestly Sons. This story was phenomenal! No bones about it. Ms Finn’s plot was unique and pulled me in from the first page and I literally did not put it down until I finished (7 hours later). I am still in awe of this book and the incredible writing of this new author! Hands down one of the best “first novels” I have ever read! Also I am in love with these characters, especially little Clara❤️❤️
October 5, 2021
Loved it
Couldn’t put it down loved it and definitely would recommend it and can’t wait to read more from Hadley Finn.
Couldn’t put it down loved it and definitely would recommend it and can’t wait to read more from Hadley Finn.
October 4, 2021
"Priestly Sins" is a very apropos title for this book by Hadley Finn. There is a lot of mystery in the first several chapters and I felt a little lost at some points, but I am glad I pushed thru to learn more as the characters development. Sean and Sirona had a connection that seemed to follow "opposites attract". Sirona is bright and sweet but completely stuck in a situation not of her own doing. Sean is all dark and robes and mysterious who secludes himself - much to a man of the cloth. I think little Clara was the perfect dynamic to add to the mix. All-in-all a 5 star read and I would be interested in reading more from Hadley Finn.
October 9, 2021
fantastic debut novel
I read this book in one day. It woulda been one sitting if I didn’t have kids lol.
Sean and Sirona were an interesting couple, and their story was intense. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Some constructive criticism -feedback, though. The romance part was definitely background noise until the last quarter of the book. Though there were lots of interesting parts, it was also really drawn out. Just my opinion. I TRULY enjoyed this book and will definitely read more by her!
I read this book in one day. It woulda been one sitting if I didn’t have kids lol.
Sean and Sirona were an interesting couple, and their story was intense. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Some constructive criticism -feedback, though. The romance part was definitely background noise until the last quarter of the book. Though there were lots of interesting parts, it was also really drawn out. Just my opinion. I TRULY enjoyed this book and will definitely read more by her!
Read
July 19, 2022No rating since I wrote this, but I hope you love Sean and Sirona and their journey together. Enjoy!
October 19, 2021
Excellent debut!
This book is great. Well written, good character development, and unexpected plot twists. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
This book is great. Well written, good character development, and unexpected plot twists. I can’t wait to see more from this author.
October 5, 2021
A priest suspenseful romance
This is a first book from this author and I am impressed. The story is fresh, unique fast-paced and suspenseful. Sean is, a priest. He takes care of his parish. He is secretly on a revenge mission, avenging his mothers death and getting rid of unsavory characters. Sirona is a Baker, a single mother of a darling rambunctious little girl and she catches Father Sean's eye. Sean quickly notices danger around Sirona à d makes it his mission to protect her and Clara. This takes place in New Orleans and Ireland. Both scenes created a great ambiance. There is also humor, steam and heart. I noticed that as you read the book, you can see the author getting comfortable and better in the writing. Great read, will certainly look for more!
This is a first book from this author and I am impressed. The story is fresh, unique fast-paced and suspenseful. Sean is, a priest. He takes care of his parish. He is secretly on a revenge mission, avenging his mothers death and getting rid of unsavory characters. Sirona is a Baker, a single mother of a darling rambunctious little girl and she catches Father Sean's eye. Sean quickly notices danger around Sirona à d makes it his mission to protect her and Clara. This takes place in New Orleans and Ireland. Both scenes created a great ambiance. There is also humor, steam and heart. I noticed that as you read the book, you can see the author getting comfortable and better in the writing. Great read, will certainly look for more!
January 7, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised by how intriguing this book was. Lots of unexpected twists, turns, mystery, danger, suspense, and murder. Mob life meets the Catholic church. Many occasions when a reader will question both lead characters. All and all a great read.
Want to read
July 15, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/15/2022)! 🎁
September 7, 2022
⭐️4 Sean & Sirona stars⭐️
I know nothing about priests but I definitely need to meet Sean and confess all my sins ☺️☺️
I know nothing about priests but I definitely need to meet Sean and confess all my sins ☺️☺️
January 29, 2023
A suspenseful mystery!
Well if that cover doesn’t spark your interest in Hadley Finn’s debut novel, then the prologue sure will! Priestly Sins introduces us to Sean, a rather dark old world character. In no time at all, he sparked my curiosity and left me eager to read on.
The first chapter picks up 10 years after the prologue and its obvious that Sean has definitely chilled out during the last decade. Still a lot of mystery in the air, including how Father Sean fits into the story. In the beginning, he depicted a dual personality. His demeanor consisted of piety and rebellion which was far removed from the priest I imagined I would encounter.
Sirona and her cute daughter Cara caught Sean’s attention, elevating the story from dark to sweet more often than not with the priceless interactions they shared. Sean and Sirona’s chemistry was tangible. Which meant right from the get go, I was well aware that I was getting mixed images of Sean and vibes of a forbidden romance.
Sean’s mannerisms and language had me forgetting he was a priest and this made me wish I could harness a stronger connection to him. I thought of him as a priest, but didn’t feel the priestly vibes if that makes sense. That said, as the story moved on, I focussed more on Sean as a man which is more of an observation than a problem.
What I adored was being transported back when the setting moved from America to Ireland. The descriptive language had me recalling fond memories of walking through the streets of Galway and having a guided tour of an old church. I was transported back to fond memories of lovely warm soup and freshly baked bread and a very quick tour of Galway!
Readers who enjoy a dark suspense will be drawn in with the dramatic macabre scene in the prologue. The relationship dynamics, mystery and the sweet balance Clara brought to the story contributed to the light I crave in a dark read. The style of the writing had a unique flow being direct and suspenseful creating a well paced novel that I devoured over a few sittings.
Well if that cover doesn’t spark your interest in Hadley Finn’s debut novel, then the prologue sure will! Priestly Sins introduces us to Sean, a rather dark old world character. In no time at all, he sparked my curiosity and left me eager to read on.
The first chapter picks up 10 years after the prologue and its obvious that Sean has definitely chilled out during the last decade. Still a lot of mystery in the air, including how Father Sean fits into the story. In the beginning, he depicted a dual personality. His demeanor consisted of piety and rebellion which was far removed from the priest I imagined I would encounter.
Sirona and her cute daughter Cara caught Sean’s attention, elevating the story from dark to sweet more often than not with the priceless interactions they shared. Sean and Sirona’s chemistry was tangible. Which meant right from the get go, I was well aware that I was getting mixed images of Sean and vibes of a forbidden romance.
Sean’s mannerisms and language had me forgetting he was a priest and this made me wish I could harness a stronger connection to him. I thought of him as a priest, but didn’t feel the priestly vibes if that makes sense. That said, as the story moved on, I focussed more on Sean as a man which is more of an observation than a problem.
What I adored was being transported back when the setting moved from America to Ireland. The descriptive language had me recalling fond memories of walking through the streets of Galway and having a guided tour of an old church. I was transported back to fond memories of lovely warm soup and freshly baked bread and a very quick tour of Galway!
Readers who enjoy a dark suspense will be drawn in with the dramatic macabre scene in the prologue. The relationship dynamics, mystery and the sweet balance Clara brought to the story contributed to the light I crave in a dark read. The style of the writing had a unique flow being direct and suspenseful creating a well paced novel that I devoured over a few sittings.
October 9, 2021
interesting
The book was recommended in an author group. The subject matter is highly taboo. A priest who uses his collar to exact revenge, seeking vengeance for his mom is not a typical plot. It started out strong, the prologue had me stunned, I wanted to know more. Somewhere around the midway mark she lost me.
The majority of the story is told as inner dialogue, reminded me of a voiceover. Way too many scenes dedicated to Sean sitting in his red chair sipping whisky. The action is minimal and sporadic, until closer to the end. His confession to Sirona about his past and his “vows” had me annoyed.
I ended up skimming the last third of the book just to see how it ended.
The book was recommended in an author group. The subject matter is highly taboo. A priest who uses his collar to exact revenge, seeking vengeance for his mom is not a typical plot. It started out strong, the prologue had me stunned, I wanted to know more. Somewhere around the midway mark she lost me.
The majority of the story is told as inner dialogue, reminded me of a voiceover. Way too many scenes dedicated to Sean sitting in his red chair sipping whisky. The action is minimal and sporadic, until closer to the end. His confession to Sirona about his past and his “vows” had me annoyed.
I ended up skimming the last third of the book just to see how it ended.
October 10, 2021
Good.
I enjoyed this story but do feel like half of it is missing. What was happening came to us to sporadically to get an actual picture of the sequence of events. There was also a lot of “waiting” time - waiting for something to happen in the book. I did like all the characters, and feel like they definitely have more to say.
I enjoyed this story but do feel like half of it is missing. What was happening came to us to sporadically to get an actual picture of the sequence of events. There was also a lot of “waiting” time - waiting for something to happen in the book. I did like all the characters, and feel like they definitely have more to say.
October 5, 2021
I got a chance to take a peek at this book from a reader group I was in. A new to everyone author. It's one of the best first books I've read in a while. The blurb sounded really interesting and this book was. Sean is a good man doing bad things. Or is he a bad man doing good things?
July 1, 2023
Though some justifiable brutal violence Father Sean works within his parish to be a good, faithful priest. In his confessional booth, he meets young Henry and Zera (wife to mob boss Enzo who has killed Sean’s mother years ago). Sorin comes to the confessional just to get breather. Numerous mysterious deaths including Soren’s parents, Henry’s father and others in the parish lead Father Sean to visit Soren’s bakery Petit Fleurs, meeting Soren’s daughter young Clara who he immediately cares for. A well thought out plan on the run as Sean sends Sorin to his ancestral home in Ireland following with Clara shortly afterwards. This was well written novel, leaving the reader eager for more at each page. An interesting novel of intriguing twists and turns, overshadowed by mob violence, tales of NOLA stretching to the beautiful hill country in Ireland. The reader feels they are right there with the characters. An incredible love story.
October 10, 2023
A-MAZ-ING
This was different to The Ranger series I had previously read.
This story is darker, forbidden love, killing, blackmail, angst and fear.
There were times during this book that my stomach was in knots. I never for one minute saw the climax as it played out.My heart bled for Sean and for his loss as a child and then during the story. To say my heart broke for his pain was an understatement.
Sirona was a feisty mama bear, but broken down by heartbreak and fear. Could I condone Sean for his actions? Yes, I could.
This was an amazing story, I can’t wait for Harley’s next book. If you haven’t read this, then I can’t recommend it highly enough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was different to The Ranger series I had previously read.
This story is darker, forbidden love, killing, blackmail, angst and fear.
There were times during this book that my stomach was in knots. I never for one minute saw the climax as it played out.My heart bled for Sean and for his loss as a child and then during the story. To say my heart broke for his pain was an understatement.
Sirona was a feisty mama bear, but broken down by heartbreak and fear. Could I condone Sean for his actions? Yes, I could.
This was an amazing story, I can’t wait for Harley’s next book. If you haven’t read this, then I can’t recommend it highly enough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 2, 2023
Priestly Sins ❤️ Sean & Sinora
Very enjoyable slow burn romance. Sean is a priest with a plan for vengeance and a determination not to become his father. His character is well developed and likable. Sinora makes for a strong MC who for some reason never spends time wondering about her affection for him even though he is a priest.
His love and joy at a cute banter with a young Clara, Sinora's daughter help drive their relationship as Sean & Sinora get closer. What a great romance.
Very enjoyable slow burn romance. Sean is a priest with a plan for vengeance and a determination not to become his father. His character is well developed and likable. Sinora makes for a strong MC who for some reason never spends time wondering about her affection for him even though he is a priest.
His love and joy at a cute banter with a young Clara, Sinora's daughter help drive their relationship as Sean & Sinora get closer. What a great romance.
January 18, 2023
What a perfectly apt title for this romantic suspense! Sean's character is so mysteriously and deliciously complex. His love interest is a single mom trying to do the right things and feeling backed into a corner with the turns her life has taken. I don't want to say too much about the plot. The puzzle is revealed to us in bits and pieces along with the motivations of the characters. Fantastic epilogue! Quite a wild ride!
December 2, 2022
I can’t believe this is this author’s first book. What an amazing read. I loved how the POV in this book was from Sean. He was such a complex character that has so many layers. Sirona was such a strong character and the perfect match for Sean. Clara just stole my heart. I can’t wait to read what you write next. 5 big stars!
February 25, 2023
I was hesitant to read this book just because of the priest factor, but I’m glad I finally decided to dig in. It was a great story and kept me engaged. I usually prefer a two person pov, but still thoroughly enjoyed the story solely from the MMC’s pov. I will be reading more from this author!
April 3, 2023
Well written!
Priestly Sins by Hadley Finn: 5 stars
Sirona/Sean. This story is twisty, angsty, and endearing. It also has depth, with a sweet, dangerous love story. Very good!
—PTators
Priestly Sins by Hadley Finn: 5 stars
Sirona/Sean. This story is twisty, angsty, and endearing. It also has depth, with a sweet, dangerous love story. Very good!
—PTators
October 2, 2021
Review to come
June 23, 2023
was okay
took me a bit to get into the story. but something kept grabbing me to keep going im glad i did. the end was even better.
took me a bit to get into the story. but something kept grabbing me to keep going im glad i did. the end was even better.
December 24, 2023
I had to DNF this book. The plot sped past parts that I felt could’ve had more meat and the characters were forgettable.
October 11, 2025
I donno what I read but lovely storytelling
July 28, 2022
This should be made into a movie! Great book. Filled with surprises, twists and turns!
October 18, 2022
cw: religion, murder, domestic abuse, violence
This was very boring. And it had no business being so given how much I love priest romances. I think this was this author’s first published book and it shows with how little care is given to the plot and writing and chemistry between our two characters.
Also, I find it very brave of the author to be very fatphobic but showing no apparent author picture. Not a cute look babe.
This was very boring. And it had no business being so given how much I love priest romances. I think this was this author’s first published book and it shows with how little care is given to the plot and writing and chemistry between our two characters.
Also, I find it very brave of the author to be very fatphobic but showing no apparent author picture. Not a cute look babe.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews