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Pursuit of Love #3
The Sinner's Penance
Even disguised as a priest, Mat can’t resist a man kneeling at his feet, begging to be punished.
Being a bodyguard for London’s Polish Mafia had its benefits. Fast money, fast cars, and an endless stream of hot men fuelled Mateusz’s insatiable lust for life.
But when he takes out the son of a rival Mafia boss, he is forced to flee to a remote island in the West of England.
Posing as a priest, Mateusz hopes he found the perfect disguise. Until a handsome stranger shows up to confession, begging for punishment. Can Mateusz rein in his ferocious carnal desires? Or will his cover be blown to smithereens?
As a newcomer to the island, Peyton’s social life is limited to a dram at the local pub. Everything changes when he attends a mass on a Sunday and his gaze lands on the man he can’t have. The one in a cassock.
A standalone MM book 3 from Pursuit of Love series.
Tropes/Themes: mafia, insta-lu$t, roleplaying, priest k!nk, wax play, flagellat!on, D/S, hurt/comfort, morally grey characters, bla$phemous use of religious artifacts, MM, HEA.
*A story of a man dealing with PTSD and re-evaluating his life as he finds love. Not a dark mafia book.
Being a bodyguard for London’s Polish Mafia had its benefits. Fast money, fast cars, and an endless stream of hot men fuelled Mateusz’s insatiable lust for life.
But when he takes out the son of a rival Mafia boss, he is forced to flee to a remote island in the West of England.
Posing as a priest, Mateusz hopes he found the perfect disguise. Until a handsome stranger shows up to confession, begging for punishment. Can Mateusz rein in his ferocious carnal desires? Or will his cover be blown to smithereens?
As a newcomer to the island, Peyton’s social life is limited to a dram at the local pub. Everything changes when he attends a mass on a Sunday and his gaze lands on the man he can’t have. The one in a cassock.
A standalone MM book 3 from Pursuit of Love series.
Tropes/Themes: mafia, insta-lu$t, roleplaying, priest k!nk, wax play, flagellat!on, D/S, hurt/comfort, morally grey characters, bla$phemous use of religious artifacts, MM, HEA.
*A story of a man dealing with PTSD and re-evaluating his life as he finds love. Not a dark mafia book.
371 pages, ebook
First published June 3, 2023
117 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Carmine
20 books260 followersK.C. Carmine loves writing about people falling in love with a focus on characters and their (very spicy) journey to HEA. As a member of the queer community, it is important to her that her writing reflects the diversity of voices around her. While she is a lover of romance, she also enjoys horror, paranormal and mystery stories. When she’s not writing, she likes travelling, playing the guitar, video games, and reading.
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Carrd
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 9, 2023
This was a new to me author and I will gladly read more books by K.C. Carmine. I loved this! It was fast paced, there was never a dull moment and it had a little bit of everything. We've got mafia, hurt/comfort, sweetness and so much steam! It’s also kinky, humorous, and has some twists/surprises thrown in as well!
“I have sinned and I need my penance from you… more than the air I breathe. I beg you to hurt me until you’re proud of me. Until my obedience pleases you.
Mateusz/Mat works for his Mafia boss uncle as his cousin's bodyguard. While saving his cousin's life, he kills a rival. His uncle sends Mat to a small English island in order to hide out there as a priest until it's safe to go back to London.
Peyton attends mass one Sunday and is immediately drawn to Father Mat. Mat also notices Peyton (another newcomer to the island) and is instantly drawn to him as well. The chemistry between Mat and Peyton was incredible. You could feel their attraction to one another.
“I wandered into the church several Sundays ago and saw a priest so gorgeous, so charismatic, his face haunted my dreams. I came to see him every Sunday since then and each time I had to run home to touch myself to the thought of him.”
One day after mass, Peyton goes to confession. Talk about a steamy discussion! OMG.
“I want to kneel before you outside of the confessional. I want you to punish me for my sins, for my impure thoughts. Please. Punish me, Father.”
I loved that while Peyton was a perfect sub to Mat in the bedroom, he was not a pushover outside of the bedroom. He knows his worth and stuck up for himself and pushed for his relationship with Mat to work beyond their time on the island.
It wasn’t the first time Mat found himself unable to say no to Peyton. In fact, since the moment he’d appeared in the confessional, Mat had been wrapped around his slender finger. Yes, he was the dominant one coming up with ideas for their scenes, but it had always been Peyton who’d instigated them and who fuelled Mat’s brain and pumped blood to his cock.
While on the island, Mat really takes to his role as Father Mat and not only helps out the locals, but makes some friends in the small community. It's a little bit difficult for him to leave it all behind when he is told that it's time to go back home. I enjoyed seeing Mat evolve from how he was before going to the island to after he spent time as Father Mat. It made him realize what was really important to him in life.
In the sensual dance of tongues, they shared their happiness and the sorrow of imminent loss, as life was about to rip them apart.
There is so much more that happens in this book after they get back to London, but you are just going to have to read it to find out. I really appreciated the hard won and well deserved HEA!
I’m so fucking lost, Peyton.” Mat’s throat hurt and his eyes burned from the tears he was trying to hold onto. Peyton took Mat’s face in his hands. “Can I be the search party? I want to help find you.”
If you are overly religious, I would maybe skip this one as there are several sexual acts that occur in the church and with religious objects that might offend you. Personally, that just intrigued me more and I was not let down! This book is part of a series, but can totally be read as a standalone.
“Could Father please forego the condoms and fill me with no barriers? Leave your seed deep inside my body, so I could carry it home and have Father with me for at least a little bit longer?”
*** I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion. ***
“I have sinned and I need my penance from you… more than the air I breathe. I beg you to hurt me until you’re proud of me. Until my obedience pleases you.
Mateusz/Mat works for his Mafia boss uncle as his cousin's bodyguard. While saving his cousin's life, he kills a rival. His uncle sends Mat to a small English island in order to hide out there as a priest until it's safe to go back to London.
Peyton attends mass one Sunday and is immediately drawn to Father Mat. Mat also notices Peyton (another newcomer to the island) and is instantly drawn to him as well. The chemistry between Mat and Peyton was incredible. You could feel their attraction to one another.
“I wandered into the church several Sundays ago and saw a priest so gorgeous, so charismatic, his face haunted my dreams. I came to see him every Sunday since then and each time I had to run home to touch myself to the thought of him.”
One day after mass, Peyton goes to confession. Talk about a steamy discussion! OMG.
“I want to kneel before you outside of the confessional. I want you to punish me for my sins, for my impure thoughts. Please. Punish me, Father.”
I loved that while Peyton was a perfect sub to Mat in the bedroom, he was not a pushover outside of the bedroom. He knows his worth and stuck up for himself and pushed for his relationship with Mat to work beyond their time on the island.
It wasn’t the first time Mat found himself unable to say no to Peyton. In fact, since the moment he’d appeared in the confessional, Mat had been wrapped around his slender finger. Yes, he was the dominant one coming up with ideas for their scenes, but it had always been Peyton who’d instigated them and who fuelled Mat’s brain and pumped blood to his cock.
While on the island, Mat really takes to his role as Father Mat and not only helps out the locals, but makes some friends in the small community. It's a little bit difficult for him to leave it all behind when he is told that it's time to go back home. I enjoyed seeing Mat evolve from how he was before going to the island to after he spent time as Father Mat. It made him realize what was really important to him in life.
In the sensual dance of tongues, they shared their happiness and the sorrow of imminent loss, as life was about to rip them apart.
There is so much more that happens in this book after they get back to London, but you are just going to have to read it to find out. I really appreciated the hard won and well deserved HEA!
I’m so fucking lost, Peyton.” Mat’s throat hurt and his eyes burned from the tears he was trying to hold onto. Peyton took Mat’s face in his hands. “Can I be the search party? I want to help find you.”
If you are overly religious, I would maybe skip this one as there are several sexual acts that occur in the church and with religious objects that might offend you. Personally, that just intrigued me more and I was not let down! This book is part of a series, but can totally be read as a standalone.
“Could Father please forego the condoms and fill me with no barriers? Leave your seed deep inside my body, so I could carry it home and have Father with me for at least a little bit longer?”
*** I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion. ***
July 14, 2024
2.95 stars
I think this is a case of “I liked the potential of this book more than the execution.” Allow me to gather my thoughts……..
So, the plot summary: Mat is the nephew of the head of the Polish Mafia and he's also his cousin's bodyguard. One night, Mat walks in on an intruder trying to unalive his cousin, so naturally Mat unalives the intruder. Mat's uncle is like "Thanks for saving my son/your cousin's life but you actually unalived the son of our nemesis so I have to send you to this island to keep you safe for a few months. Also, you have to pretend to be a priest for....reasons" Mat is like "Weird request but ok" and goes off to this island. Despite Mat's party boy past, he doesn't have any trouble stepping into the role of "Father Mat." He wins over everyone on the island, including a sophisticated parishioner named Peyton. Peyton and Mat immediately build a connection, engage in some kinky roleplaying and start to fall for each other. Mat tries to push him away for his own good-because ya know, Mat's life is still in danger-but Peyton basically like "No ❤️" Peyton is also hiding a pretty big secret of his own.....
This book should've been an immediate 5 star read because I LOVE a good (and steamy) Priest romance, especially one with a Dom/Sub dynamic, but I couldn't rate it higher than 3 stars for the following reasons:
1. The use of "Lamb" as a pet name. As a society, we should cancel "Lamb"
2. Some of the dialogue was incredibly awkward and clunky which made me sad because the dialogue that came off more naturally was REALLY good. (Side note: The pacing was also weird and choppy)
3. There's a BIG thing that happens off page and I don't understand why it had to happen. Hint: it's another character's death and I STILL DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY IT WAS NEEDED.
4. This is not a slow-burn romance, and I would've loved more yearning from both sides.
This book was fine. I just wanted more.
Peyton/Mat's song(s):
Take Me to Church-Hozier
If Our Love Is Wrong-Calum Scott
CW: murder, assault, attempted murder
I think this is a case of “I liked the potential of this book more than the execution.” Allow me to gather my thoughts……..
So, the plot summary: Mat is the nephew of the head of the Polish Mafia and he's also his cousin's bodyguard. One night, Mat walks in on an intruder trying to unalive his cousin, so naturally Mat unalives the intruder. Mat's uncle is like "Thanks for saving my son/your cousin's life but you actually unalived the son of our nemesis so I have to send you to this island to keep you safe for a few months. Also, you have to pretend to be a priest for....reasons" Mat is like "Weird request but ok" and goes off to this island. Despite Mat's party boy past, he doesn't have any trouble stepping into the role of "Father Mat." He wins over everyone on the island, including a sophisticated parishioner named Peyton. Peyton and Mat immediately build a connection, engage in some kinky roleplaying and start to fall for each other. Mat tries to push him away for his own good-because ya know, Mat's life is still in danger-but Peyton basically like "No ❤️" Peyton is also hiding a pretty big secret of his own.....
This book should've been an immediate 5 star read because I LOVE a good (and steamy) Priest romance, especially one with a Dom/Sub dynamic, but I couldn't rate it higher than 3 stars for the following reasons:
1. The use of "Lamb" as a pet name. As a society, we should cancel "Lamb"
2. Some of the dialogue was incredibly awkward and clunky which made me sad because the dialogue that came off more naturally was REALLY good. (Side note: The pacing was also weird and choppy)
3. There's a BIG thing that happens off page and I don't understand why it had to happen. Hint: it's another character's death and I STILL DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY IT WAS NEEDED.
4. This is not a slow-burn romance, and I would've loved more yearning from both sides.
This book was fine. I just wanted more.
Peyton/Mat's song(s):
Take Me to Church-Hozier
If Our Love Is Wrong-Calum Scott
CW: murder, assault, attempted murder
May 31, 2023
Omg, with that blurb, I of course HAD to get the #ARC & I'm so glad to have gotten it!! Devoured this in around 6 hours 😍.
All the stars!! ⭐
Mat & Peyton's story is amazing, despite having mafia, some dark-ish elements & SO MANY HOT KINKS 🤤🤤, their relationship is so sweet.
Plus, even tho they have dom/sub relationship, I love me a vers couple!
I loved the characters, I loved all the friendships made, the story surprised me in turns. They made me happy, teared up, their struggles hurted me & I rooted for their HEA. There's angst (mostly outer & situational), there's emotions, & I loved every second of this!!
I'll come up with a longer review soon, but guysss this book is amazing! I read it as a standalone, my 1st by the author but I'll be looking forward to this series!
Story ratings:
1) Main Character(s) likeness: 5/5
2) Side characters: 5/5
3) Top 3 feels in story: omg, Hottt, cute!!
4) Kept me hooked / Story flow: 5/5
5) Satisfaction / Enjoyment: 5+/5
6) Creativity / twists: 4.6/5
7) World development: 4.5/5
8) Relationship: 5/5
9) Problems+Resolution: 4.7/5
10) Sexy / steamy scenes: 4/5
11) Cuteness level: 4/5
12) Angst level: 2.5/5
13) Darkness level: 2.5/5
14) POV / Writing style: 3rd person Dual POV, 4.6/5
15) Grammar: 4.9/5
All the stars!! ⭐
Mat & Peyton's story is amazing, despite having mafia, some dark-ish elements & SO MANY HOT KINKS 🤤🤤, their relationship is so sweet.
Plus, even tho they have dom/sub relationship, I love me a vers couple!
I loved the characters, I loved all the friendships made, the story surprised me in turns. They made me happy, teared up, their struggles hurted me & I rooted for their HEA. There's angst (mostly outer & situational), there's emotions, & I loved every second of this!!
I'll come up with a longer review soon, but guysss this book is amazing! I read it as a standalone, my 1st by the author but I'll be looking forward to this series!
Story ratings:
1) Main Character(s) likeness: 5/5
2) Side characters: 5/5
3) Top 3 feels in story: omg, Hottt, cute!!
4) Kept me hooked / Story flow: 5/5
5) Satisfaction / Enjoyment: 5+/5
6) Creativity / twists: 4.6/5
7) World development: 4.5/5
8) Relationship: 5/5
9) Problems+Resolution: 4.7/5
10) Sexy / steamy scenes: 4/5
11) Cuteness level: 4/5
12) Angst level: 2.5/5
13) Darkness level: 2.5/5
14) POV / Writing style: 3rd person Dual POV, 4.6/5
15) Grammar: 4.9/5
May 31, 2023
After saving the son of his Mafia boss, bodyguard Mateusz/Mat has to flee. A small English island will be his destiny, he’ll be the new priest to a small community, for as long as it takes and he can go back.
Mat’s life of BDSM clubbing, parties and fight nights with friends are over.
Peyton needs punishment, and he recognizes the Dom in the new priest. He begs Father Mat to discipline him.
What can Mat do… yes, what he’s good at. It was everything, for both.
There are questions rising, why is Peyton here in such a secluded place, has he something to hide?
Mat can’t dive too deep into their relationship, he will leave, even though he doesn’t know when he can return home.
Making more friends with people in the small community makes it all quite difficult for Mat to keep his real personality hidden and not slip. Again, he can’t get too involved with Peyton, because Mat will leave, and leave Peyton behind. Sadly it’s already too late, they are all over each other.
Imagine Mat’s surprise when not he but Peyton leaves him behind,
A sweet read, with also some harsh moments. It’s not a dark read.
There are some nice surprising revelations. The sex was hot and kinky.
Overall a nicely written, fast-paced, just enough developed story, which I enjoyed reading.
Mat’s life of BDSM clubbing, parties and fight nights with friends are over.
Peyton needs punishment, and he recognizes the Dom in the new priest. He begs Father Mat to discipline him.
What can Mat do… yes, what he’s good at. It was everything, for both.
There are questions rising, why is Peyton here in such a secluded place, has he something to hide?
Mat can’t dive too deep into their relationship, he will leave, even though he doesn’t know when he can return home.
Making more friends with people in the small community makes it all quite difficult for Mat to keep his real personality hidden and not slip. Again, he can’t get too involved with Peyton, because Mat will leave, and leave Peyton behind. Sadly it’s already too late, they are all over each other.
Imagine Mat’s surprise when not he but Peyton leaves him behind,
A sweet read, with also some harsh moments. It’s not a dark read.
There are some nice surprising revelations. The sex was hot and kinky.
Overall a nicely written, fast-paced, just enough developed story, which I enjoyed reading.
June 1, 2023
What an intriguing couple. Mat and Peyton.
Asking your priest to punish you with some kinky shit? Yes please!!! I really enjoyed the kinky sex in this and in parts it was quite inventive.
This is a fab read, is super fast paced I think and you’re not left hanging in any moment, constantly things happening.
I really liked to see how Mat evolved in this from the playboy he was at the beginning. These guys are brilliant together and also so sweet. It was a hell of a way to meet your other half!!
I need more kinky priest books in my life.
Asking your priest to punish you with some kinky shit? Yes please!!! I really enjoyed the kinky sex in this and in parts it was quite inventive.
This is a fab read, is super fast paced I think and you’re not left hanging in any moment, constantly things happening.
I really liked to see how Mat evolved in this from the playboy he was at the beginning. These guys are brilliant together and also so sweet. It was a hell of a way to meet your other half!!
I need more kinky priest books in my life.
August 25, 2025
2.5 stars. This was fine! I had an okay time with it. The reason why I didn't like it as much as I wanted, I think, is an expectation versus reality thing. Which isn't really the book's fault, I guess. The premise of the book is that Mat, a mafia bodyguard, kills someone he really shouldn't have. He's sent to hide out undercover on a remote island, posing as a priest, and while there, he starts falling for one of his parishioners. And with a premise like that, I did expect something slow burn and intense and emotional. Something that would really sink its teeth into the relationship between these two men, explore the taboo and the sublime in a visceral way.
That was what I expected, and even more so because I saw this being tagged as a dark romance. This wasn't very dark. Instead, what I got was a pretty light mafia romance, barely romantic suspense, with a fair amount of smut and kink. The taboo nature of the relationship was more centred on the kink and the roleplay, rather than the emotional connection. This is kind of a spoiler, but it's revealed pretty early on in the book, so I don't mind saying. It turns out that Peyton, the love interest and parishioner, is fully aware that Mat is a fake priest, and that was kind of a disappointment to me. And all of Mat's priestly duties, the way he acclimatised to life on the island and the ways he needed to change his behaviours to fit in, were glossed over so quickly. The pace was really uneven. It felt like the author just wanted to get to the smut. Which is fine, obviously. But eh. I really wish that I had felt more for these characters.
The ending was super dramatic in a way that did nothing for me. And I got annoyed for a bunch of petty reasons. (Books that end in Europeans or North Americans retiring to the Caribbean and describing it as an idyll, or a perpetual vacation... that just rubs me the wrong way.) This lacked much actual chemistry between the two men; it leaned on its tropes and the sex and a bunch of telling. I did like the premise and there were some pretty good moments in between. But overall? It was just okay.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Freddie Wills, which was my favourite thing about the book. I really liked his accents, especially for Peyton. And like in a lot of other mediocre books, his voice leant a lot of emotion to an otherwise lacklustre story. I'm kinda annoyed with myself for buying it, but I also know I would have probably DNFed this if not for the audiobook. So, eh, whatever. This could have been worse.
Content warnings:
That was what I expected, and even more so because I saw this being tagged as a dark romance. This wasn't very dark. Instead, what I got was a pretty light mafia romance, barely romantic suspense, with a fair amount of smut and kink. The taboo nature of the relationship was more centred on the kink and the roleplay, rather than the emotional connection. This is kind of a spoiler, but it's revealed pretty early on in the book, so I don't mind saying. It turns out that Peyton, the love interest and parishioner, is fully aware that Mat is a fake priest, and that was kind of a disappointment to me. And all of Mat's priestly duties, the way he acclimatised to life on the island and the ways he needed to change his behaviours to fit in, were glossed over so quickly. The pace was really uneven. It felt like the author just wanted to get to the smut. Which is fine, obviously. But eh. I really wish that I had felt more for these characters.
The ending was super dramatic in a way that did nothing for me. And I got annoyed for a bunch of petty reasons. (Books that end in Europeans or North Americans retiring to the Caribbean and describing it as an idyll, or a perpetual vacation... that just rubs me the wrong way.) This lacked much actual chemistry between the two men; it leaned on its tropes and the sex and a bunch of telling. I did like the premise and there were some pretty good moments in between. But overall? It was just okay.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Freddie Wills, which was my favourite thing about the book. I really liked his accents, especially for Peyton. And like in a lot of other mediocre books, his voice leant a lot of emotion to an otherwise lacklustre story. I'm kinda annoyed with myself for buying it, but I also know I would have probably DNFed this if not for the audiobook. So, eh, whatever. This could have been worse.
Content warnings:
June 3, 2023
The Sinner’s Penance // K.C. Carmine
Out: June 3rd
Read. This. Now. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
K.C. Carmine truly outdid herself here.
She is bringing the best of K!nk, Blasphemy, and instant connection in The Sinner’s Penance. Mat, a bad-boy mafia Dom finds himself in danger and has to go into hiding as a priest… what could go wrong? 😈 In steps, sweet submissive Peyton who sets his sights on Mat. What follows is a super steamy, blasphemous, and at the same time, endearing and genuine love story. Holy shit, with the 🔥 scenes. KC Carmine just went all out with the k!nk and blasphemy, like ALL OUT. Enjoy this wild and wonderful ride.
❤️ BDSM
😈 Blasphemy
💕 Hurt / Comfort
🌧️ Trauma / Grief
✝️ Mafia “Priest” Dom In Hiding
🧎”Parishioner” Sub Undercover
🔥 Insta Lust
🥃 Forced Proximity
💥 Suspense
📖 Stand-alone
🔥K!nky tags:
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
High Heat
D/s
Role play- Priest/ Parishioner
Flagellat!on - Impact Play
Blasphemous Objects
Taboo Settings
C_m Play
Bondage
Wax Play
Toys
✅ Yes, book has listed trigger warnings.
Out: June 3rd
Read. This. Now. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
K.C. Carmine truly outdid herself here.
She is bringing the best of K!nk, Blasphemy, and instant connection in The Sinner’s Penance. Mat, a bad-boy mafia Dom finds himself in danger and has to go into hiding as a priest… what could go wrong? 😈 In steps, sweet submissive Peyton who sets his sights on Mat. What follows is a super steamy, blasphemous, and at the same time, endearing and genuine love story. Holy shit, with the 🔥 scenes. KC Carmine just went all out with the k!nk and blasphemy, like ALL OUT. Enjoy this wild and wonderful ride.
❤️ BDSM
😈 Blasphemy
💕 Hurt / Comfort
🌧️ Trauma / Grief
✝️ Mafia “Priest” Dom In Hiding
🧎”Parishioner” Sub Undercover
🔥 Insta Lust
🥃 Forced Proximity
💥 Suspense
📖 Stand-alone
🔥K!nky tags:
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
High Heat
D/s
Role play- Priest/ Parishioner
Flagellat!on - Impact Play
Blasphemous Objects
Taboo Settings
C_m Play
Bondage
Wax Play
Toys
✅ Yes, book has listed trigger warnings.
June 21, 2023
**First Time Reader**
OMG...I wasn't ready for how awesome this book was. So glad I was given an opportunity to read. It had everything I'm vibing with currently in reading romances. Kinky as hell with a lot of heat...mafia action...and all the emotional and romantic feels without being too angsty. Mat and Peyton's had an instant connection that couldn't be denied. I love how open they were with each other...there were secrets but nothing that weren't later brought to light...nothing long and drawn out that would make me scream in frustration. I love how the author broke this into 2 sections...made the transitions of what went on in Mat and Peyton's life flow without awkwardness and confusion. The climax towards the end was just right too keep the reader on their toes on what's next for the couple along with a TERRIFIC twist at the end with the families. I was so not ready for that but it was wonderful and a delight to read. I hated to see this end but it ended lovely. 5 STARS!!!!!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
OMG...I wasn't ready for how awesome this book was. So glad I was given an opportunity to read. It had everything I'm vibing with currently in reading romances. Kinky as hell with a lot of heat...mafia action...and all the emotional and romantic feels without being too angsty. Mat and Peyton's had an instant connection that couldn't be denied. I love how open they were with each other...there were secrets but nothing that weren't later brought to light...nothing long and drawn out that would make me scream in frustration. I love how the author broke this into 2 sections...made the transitions of what went on in Mat and Peyton's life flow without awkwardness and confusion. The climax towards the end was just right too keep the reader on their toes on what's next for the couple along with a TERRIFIC twist at the end with the families. I was so not ready for that but it was wonderful and a delight to read. I hated to see this end but it ended lovely. 5 STARS!!!!!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 6, 2023
This was such a good read & I loved every second of this book. This is my first book by the author but now I can't wait to read other books in this series.
Mat & Peyton were such an incredible couple & their chemistry was so amazing. I enjoyed their kinky sex scenes & damn the things they did in front of an altar 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
This book was fast-paced and didn't get boring at any point & yes I had my heart in my throat during the end chapters I was like WHATTTT but the author gave them the ending they deserved. I loved their families & friends, the moments with them were so beautifully written.
I need more of these books in my life.
Mat & Peyton were such an incredible couple & their chemistry was so amazing. I enjoyed their kinky sex scenes & damn the things they did in front of an altar 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
This book was fast-paced and didn't get boring at any point & yes I had my heart in my throat during the end chapters I was like WHATTTT but the author gave them the ending they deserved. I loved their families & friends, the moments with them were so beautifully written.
I need more of these books in my life.
May 28, 2023
Heed the Trigger Warnings! This story is gritty, dirty, intense, swoony, steamy, and a magnificent romance. Mat & Peyton - FIRE! I also discovered a new kink I never knew I found so intriguing to read about ... Wow. No spoilers, but I'll say this; The journey was a treacherous (and sizzling) one, some twists along the way, some harrowing moments, & some interesting sidenotes & cameos - overall, fantastic. The HEA was hard-earned, well-deserved, and totally made this reader's heart so happy! I became personally emotionally invested in these guys, especially Mat, for some reason. My heart wept, broke, rejoiced, and swooned along with them. Loved it!
May 30, 2023
Mat was a Mafia bodyguard who was disguised as a priest after killing a man. Peyton came to him asking for penance which Mat dispensed with BDSM. The use of religious artifacts in this book was shocking but the heat the men felt was titillating and steamy. This book surprised me with an ending I did not see coming but I loved them as a couple. A sexy story with a sacrilegious bent I enjoyed. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
May 27, 2023
Reviewed in the United States. I loved The Sinner's Penance.I love Mat and Peyton. Mat is a part of the mafia that his uncle owns and he has been there since his parents died when he was a kid. Mat was doing his job body guarding his cousin when he killed the son from another mafia who was trying to kill his cousin. Mat's uncle sent him away to be a priest until things settle down. There was a guy who kept going to the church and kept having sin thoughts. He asked him for forgiveness and help. Mat helped Peyton with his unpure thoughts
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2023
Ugh this was absolutely a great read, so hot and kinky in places but also sweet in others. The kinkyness was on another level. I think this will be one of those books that I reread often. Can't wait to see what this author comes up with next.
May 28, 2023
Wow🤩🤩 Loved this super kinky and yet sweet love story!! So well written, I could not put the book down! I love the way the characters grow in the book, and the tension build up is🔥🤩 Remember to read the TW❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 29, 2023
Something UnHoly
Mateusz arrived on the small island between UK and Ireland to take up the post of priest to the island community. It was supposed to be a temporary solution to the huge problems he left being with the Family in London.
He is still in shock after killing the son of a rival Mafia gang in East London who had been in the middle of trying to kill Mateusz best friend and cousin, who is the son of the Polish Mafia boss, who is Mateusz Uncle.
That’s why he’s hiding out incognito on an island so small it’s hardly noticed on a map.
Mateusz knows enough about Catholic Church services having been brought up in a Polish Catholic family and served as an alter boy for years. He should be able to carry it off.
He has noticed a male member of the congregation staring at him from his seat at the rear of the small church. Every Sunday he sits in the same place, never taking his eyes off Mateusz.
After Mass Mateusz stays back to hear Confessions for those who want it.
His calm is shattered when the man who entered is the one who has been eyeing him at Mass. When he says his Confession Mateusz nearly passes out.
He cannot refuse.
I guess anyone who has a strong Catholic faith should beware of possible Triggers, in so far as they might be offended at some incidents.
There is very steamy, kinky goings on on this little Island and further afield. There is murder and mayhem between rival Mafia families.
So, don’t expect a warm fluffy romance, it’s a good story with hot MC’s, who are more likely to rip off their Armani suits in church after Sunday Mass. 😂♥️🔥💥🎆 This book is part of a series of four from K. C. Carmine, one of which features two secondary character mentioned here.
Mateusz arrived on the small island between UK and Ireland to take up the post of priest to the island community. It was supposed to be a temporary solution to the huge problems he left being with the Family in London.
He is still in shock after killing the son of a rival Mafia gang in East London who had been in the middle of trying to kill Mateusz best friend and cousin, who is the son of the Polish Mafia boss, who is Mateusz Uncle.
That’s why he’s hiding out incognito on an island so small it’s hardly noticed on a map.
Mateusz knows enough about Catholic Church services having been brought up in a Polish Catholic family and served as an alter boy for years. He should be able to carry it off.
He has noticed a male member of the congregation staring at him from his seat at the rear of the small church. Every Sunday he sits in the same place, never taking his eyes off Mateusz.
After Mass Mateusz stays back to hear Confessions for those who want it.
His calm is shattered when the man who entered is the one who has been eyeing him at Mass. When he says his Confession Mateusz nearly passes out.
He cannot refuse.
I guess anyone who has a strong Catholic faith should beware of possible Triggers, in so far as they might be offended at some incidents.
There is very steamy, kinky goings on on this little Island and further afield. There is murder and mayhem between rival Mafia families.
So, don’t expect a warm fluffy romance, it’s a good story with hot MC’s, who are more likely to rip off their Armani suits in church after Sunday Mass. 😂♥️🔥💥🎆 This book is part of a series of four from K. C. Carmine, one of which features two secondary character mentioned here.
June 1, 2023
Check trigger warning before reading. If you are good, then all I have to say is buckle up and get ready for all the gritty, sweet, heartbreaking, spicy fun. We get mafia, hurt/comfort, insta-lust, wax play, dom/sub, and a twist that I didn't see coming. K.C. Carmine definitely took it to a new level with Mat and Peyton. The connection between these two was instant and filled with passion and all the heat. My heart was definitely hurting for Mat during this story, and I couldn't put it down. Peyton is so sweet and will fight to keep Mat. I absolutely loved being able to see the changes in their relationship during all the changes they had to endure. Mat and Peyton are great together and put in the work to make each other happy. This was definitely a hard won HEA. I loved getting the little glimpses of the couples from the previous books in The Pursuit of Love series. I can't wait to see what K.C. has in store for us next.
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2023
🏳️🌈 KC manage’s to knock it out of the park again with this brilliant book.
I don’t know how she manages to pack so much into the story.
Mat and Peyton are some of my all time favourite characters.
It’s a fun, kinky and heartfelt story and that church scene (fans self) 🥵🔥
I loved the character cameo’s from previous books
Also Mat’s Uncle and Peyton’s dad finding love with each other again. 🏳️🌈
I don’t know how she manages to pack so much into the story.
Mat and Peyton are some of my all time favourite characters.
It’s a fun, kinky and heartfelt story and that church scene (fans self) 🥵🔥
I loved the character cameo’s from previous books
Also Mat’s Uncle and Peyton’s dad finding love with each other again. 🏳️🌈
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2023
Another amazing book from KC
I loved it from start to finish.
Mat and payton are so good togther both fit perfectly 🥰 the kink side was 🔥
I loved it from start to finish.
Mat and payton are so good togther both fit perfectly 🥰 the kink side was 🔥
June 2, 2023
When I read the blurb for this book (and the trigger warnings), I knew that I HAD to read it!
The Sinner’s Penance is the third book in the Pursuit of Loveseries, but it can be read as a standalone. PLEASE HEED THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, especially if you are very religious or religious objects and icons are sacred to you.
I’ve loved each and every one of the books in the series: The Flower Arrangement with hairdresser Hugh and florist Brendan; The Blindfold Date with Brian, the ex-football player and submissive, and Ernesto, an autistic video game programmer and dom; and Stitch Me with Caleb, who fights in underground fights and longs to submit, meeting Rod, who can fulfill all of Caleb's dreams (including a HEA).
With each book, KC ups the ante in terms of the heat, the D/S dynamic, and the k!nks that are explored, and I am here for every single one of them!
The Sinner’s Penance takes the fantastic kink scenes and relationship of Stitch Me and raises the bar even higher. The trigger warnings include: mafia, insta-lust, roleplaying, priest kink, wax play, flagellation, D/S, hurt/comfort, morally grey characters and blasphemous use of religious artifacts. AND KC was not kidding when she included the warning for priest kink and the blasphemous use of religious artifacts.
I loved the characters. Matt is part of a Polish mafia family, and when he needs to flee for his life and go undercover as a priest, it allows him to experience life in a different way. In a slower, smaller way where he is part of a community and can be himself in ways that he has never had the opportunity to explore. Not that he’s committed to being a priest for longer than he needs, or wants to put his mafia life behind him, but I liked how his experience as a priest and his relationships in the community make Matt reevaluate what is important to him at this moment in his life and gives him the courage to reach for something different.
And Peyton?! The way that man submits to Matt’s punishment and the priest/sinner roleplaying? It was fantastic. The way that KC slowly reveals why Peyton is on the island and his role in Matt’s life was excellently written and gave a few plot twists that I did not see coming.
I was so invested in Matt and Peyton’s story and their struggle to go against family expectations and their own insecurities to fight for their relationship and the HEA they deserve!
And the side characters and side love stories? *chef’s kiss* They made me so happy!
I also really liked how this book explained how the characters in the book are connected, and it was such fun to read how Matt knows Hugh, Brendan, Brian, E, Caleb, and Rod.
I can't wait to see what KC will come up with for The Golden Handcuffs
The Sinner’s Penance is the third book in the Pursuit of Loveseries, but it can be read as a standalone. PLEASE HEED THE TRIGGER WARNINGS, especially if you are very religious or religious objects and icons are sacred to you.
I’ve loved each and every one of the books in the series: The Flower Arrangement with hairdresser Hugh and florist Brendan; The Blindfold Date with Brian, the ex-football player and submissive, and Ernesto, an autistic video game programmer and dom; and Stitch Me with Caleb, who fights in underground fights and longs to submit, meeting Rod, who can fulfill all of Caleb's dreams (including a HEA).
With each book, KC ups the ante in terms of the heat, the D/S dynamic, and the k!nks that are explored, and I am here for every single one of them!
The Sinner’s Penance takes the fantastic kink scenes and relationship of Stitch Me and raises the bar even higher. The trigger warnings include: mafia, insta-lust, roleplaying, priest kink, wax play, flagellation, D/S, hurt/comfort, morally grey characters and blasphemous use of religious artifacts. AND KC was not kidding when she included the warning for priest kink and the blasphemous use of religious artifacts.
I loved the characters. Matt is part of a Polish mafia family, and when he needs to flee for his life and go undercover as a priest, it allows him to experience life in a different way. In a slower, smaller way where he is part of a community and can be himself in ways that he has never had the opportunity to explore. Not that he’s committed to being a priest for longer than he needs, or wants to put his mafia life behind him, but I liked how his experience as a priest and his relationships in the community make Matt reevaluate what is important to him at this moment in his life and gives him the courage to reach for something different.
And Peyton?! The way that man submits to Matt’s punishment and the priest/sinner roleplaying? It was fantastic. The way that KC slowly reveals why Peyton is on the island and his role in Matt’s life was excellently written and gave a few plot twists that I did not see coming.
I was so invested in Matt and Peyton’s story and their struggle to go against family expectations and their own insecurities to fight for their relationship and the HEA they deserve!
And the side characters and side love stories? *chef’s kiss* They made me so happy!
I also really liked how this book explained how the characters in the book are connected, and it was such fun to read how Matt knows Hugh, Brendan, Brian, E, Caleb, and Rod.
I can't wait to see what KC will come up with for The Golden Handcuffs
June 3, 2023
I went into this book expecting a lot: mafia mayhem, fast paced action, high heat, strong characters... essentially a fun wild ride. This book met all those expectations and yet was so unexpected in so many ways for me. It gave me multifaceted characters I loved, loads of sweet moments and a story that was just built up seamlessly to a very satisfying conclusion. It’s a story I throughly enjoyed.
Expect:
* Mafia romance
* Hurt Comfort
* Action and Suspense
* Insta Lust
* D/s
* Kink: Wax play, Impact play, Shibari, orgasm control, Bondage, Role play, Priest Kink.
The author starts the story off at a fast clip with Mat, a mafia bodyguard being pulled away from home because of tragic circumstances and being isolated under a false identity to help protect him. We see him dealing with what has happened, how he’s at first trying to reconcile and then starts appreciating the slower pace and found family he develops in his new home. Here he meets Peyton and their chemistry is off the charts hot with weeks of pining and resistance sparking into an inferno of clandestine, highly descriptive and creative sexual encounters.
But it’s clear from the outset that even if it’s starts off with anonymity, this goes beyond sex for both of them and then we see them acknowledging their feelings, pushing to get more than just the lives they left behind to build a future together. The author amps it up further, keeping up the fast pace with an explosive end.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥.5
Swoon: ❤️❤️❤️.5
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹.5
Humour: 🤣🤣
CW: Violence, murder, morally grey characters, trauma, loss of a family member, loss of a child, off page mention of loss of parent, blasphemy, use of religious artefacts for sexual purposes, dubiously safe use of items.
Expect:
* Mafia romance
* Hurt Comfort
* Action and Suspense
* Insta Lust
* D/s
* Kink: Wax play, Impact play, Shibari, orgasm control, Bondage, Role play, Priest Kink.
The author starts the story off at a fast clip with Mat, a mafia bodyguard being pulled away from home because of tragic circumstances and being isolated under a false identity to help protect him. We see him dealing with what has happened, how he’s at first trying to reconcile and then starts appreciating the slower pace and found family he develops in his new home. Here he meets Peyton and their chemistry is off the charts hot with weeks of pining and resistance sparking into an inferno of clandestine, highly descriptive and creative sexual encounters.
But it’s clear from the outset that even if it’s starts off with anonymity, this goes beyond sex for both of them and then we see them acknowledging their feelings, pushing to get more than just the lives they left behind to build a future together. The author amps it up further, keeping up the fast pace with an explosive end.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥.5
Swoon: ❤️❤️❤️.5
Angst: ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹.5
Humour: 🤣🤣
CW: Violence, murder, morally grey characters, trauma, loss of a family member, loss of a child, off page mention of loss of parent, blasphemy, use of religious artefacts for sexual purposes, dubiously safe use of items.
June 5, 2023
The Sinners Penance is book three of the Pursuit of Love series. While it can be read as a standalone, it does feature appearances of characters from the first two books which I absolutely LOVED!!! It continues in the Pursuit of Love vein with featuring a BDSM lifestyle, MM romance, and a happily ever after for Mateusz and Peyton.
The Sinners Penance starts with Mateusz protecting his cousin Jack by shooting an intruder that is trying to harm him. Unfortunately, that intruder is the son of a rival Mafia boss and a vendetta is sworn. Mat’s Uncle Zbigniew decided that to keep both men safe he must separate them. In doing so, Mateusz is sent to a small island to hide in plain sight as a priest. He blends in well making friends with the islanders and working hard to be a good priest. Here he meets Peyton and their illicit affair begins. When Peyton gets called away from the Island will he ever see Mat again? Will Mat ever return to London?
To say I enjoyed this story is so lacking in emphasis. This story is sexy. It is riveting. I’m still new enough to reading about BDSM to know I don’t know everything and I found parts of the story curious. I wasn’t turned off by the priest kink, because why yuck someone else’s yum? I let myself sink into story and just be a part of it. It was exciting and mesmerizing and honestly I read it in slow bites to extend its life. I have loved each of the Pursuit of Love books and loved this one as well. How could I not? There was so much to it, the danger, the love, and the potential future. It leaves me hoping we’ll see Mat and Peyton again one day.
The Sinners Penance starts with Mateusz protecting his cousin Jack by shooting an intruder that is trying to harm him. Unfortunately, that intruder is the son of a rival Mafia boss and a vendetta is sworn. Mat’s Uncle Zbigniew decided that to keep both men safe he must separate them. In doing so, Mateusz is sent to a small island to hide in plain sight as a priest. He blends in well making friends with the islanders and working hard to be a good priest. Here he meets Peyton and their illicit affair begins. When Peyton gets called away from the Island will he ever see Mat again? Will Mat ever return to London?
To say I enjoyed this story is so lacking in emphasis. This story is sexy. It is riveting. I’m still new enough to reading about BDSM to know I don’t know everything and I found parts of the story curious. I wasn’t turned off by the priest kink, because why yuck someone else’s yum? I let myself sink into story and just be a part of it. It was exciting and mesmerizing and honestly I read it in slow bites to extend its life. I have loved each of the Pursuit of Love books and loved this one as well. How could I not? There was so much to it, the danger, the love, and the potential future. It leaves me hoping we’ll see Mat and Peyton again one day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2023
This was an amazing and original read! First, the character development is extremely well done - these MCs are wonderfully complicated and surprisingly sweet. After killing the son of another London Don, Mat if forced to disappear for his own safety. I loved this idea, and it was so interesting seeing Mat try to adjust to his new life as a catholic priest - Father Matthew. A remote island town between England and Ireland is Father Matthew’s new home, I loved the setting which is full of excellent characters, including Peyton. Peyton is a bit mysterious at first, but he pretty easily sees through Mat’ disguise. I loved how quickly he was able to see the Dom hiding under Father Matthew’s cassock. Mat and Peyton are a delicious blend of kink and sweetness that was very appealing, I loved their connection. Their scenes together are … wow - intimate , intense, sweet, and crazy hot! This author is so skilled at creating characters that feel grounded and real, even under extraordinary circumstances, like hiding out, imitating a priest on a quaint island town. I was really pulled into Mat and Peyton’s story, absolutely loved it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 2, 2023
What a fun read! This story went places I didn't expect it to go and kept me thoroughly entertained as I spent pretty much the whole day unable to put it down. The main character, Mat, has just gone through a traumatic experience, and I was happy to see that explored despite him being such a tough man. He's in hiding, pretending he's someone he's not, but being away from the world of wealth and danger allows for a lot of self-exploration.
The man he meets on the island where he's hiding from the fallout of what happened at the start of the book has a secret of his own, and as those two explore their attraction to each other, sparks fly so high, both men might end up burned.
Secret meetings, alluring glances, and delicious fantasies explored together for the first time make this novel a treat to read. When those two men are together, the air sizzles. And the priest kink? A+. It goes deep and becomes their love language.
The side characters are also well developed. The author manages to create a living breathing world around the MCs, which makes the stakes of the mafia plot even higher. It was a great read. Crossing my fingers for a spin-off, about a certain couple ;)
The man he meets on the island where he's hiding from the fallout of what happened at the start of the book has a secret of his own, and as those two explore their attraction to each other, sparks fly so high, both men might end up burned.
Secret meetings, alluring glances, and delicious fantasies explored together for the first time make this novel a treat to read. When those two men are together, the air sizzles. And the priest kink? A+. It goes deep and becomes their love language.
The side characters are also well developed. The author manages to create a living breathing world around the MCs, which makes the stakes of the mafia plot even higher. It was a great read. Crossing my fingers for a spin-off, about a certain couple ;)
June 10, 2023
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 3rd person
The Sinner’s Penance was a really interesting story and I liked the paths that it took. While it very easily could have been a darker story, it still kept on the lighter side despite dealing with death, grief and the mafia.
I liked how things developed between Mat and Peyton, their story was fast paced but without anything feeling rushed. Their connection was intense and while they didn’t really communicate at the beginning, Mat was great at checking in and making sure Peyton was within his limits. Peyton was the perfect sub for Mat, and I really liked how they got to know each other outside of their dynamic as well.
The priest / religious themes in the story definitely spiced things up between the men. Even if Mat was only pretending to be a priest, the forbidden / taboo feeling was strong here, and how they had to keep their relationship hidden also contributed to that. The role play was really hot and I loved the steam and kink in this story, it was so delicious and hot!
I must say that I was a bit surprised by how well Mat adapted to his new circumstances and how involved he got with the community on the island. It was sweet how he cared about the people and his role as a priest. It added a lot to his character to see him trying to find his place, while also keeping a lot of secrets.
I really enjoyed Mat and Peyton’s story, it was overall a very well written and intriguing read. It was different than what I expected, in all the good ways, and I’ll definitely read more from this author!
Steam: 4
PoV: dual, 3rd person
The Sinner’s Penance was a really interesting story and I liked the paths that it took. While it very easily could have been a darker story, it still kept on the lighter side despite dealing with death, grief and the mafia.
I liked how things developed between Mat and Peyton, their story was fast paced but without anything feeling rushed. Their connection was intense and while they didn’t really communicate at the beginning, Mat was great at checking in and making sure Peyton was within his limits. Peyton was the perfect sub for Mat, and I really liked how they got to know each other outside of their dynamic as well.
The priest / religious themes in the story definitely spiced things up between the men. Even if Mat was only pretending to be a priest, the forbidden / taboo feeling was strong here, and how they had to keep their relationship hidden also contributed to that. The role play was really hot and I loved the steam and kink in this story, it was so delicious and hot!
I must say that I was a bit surprised by how well Mat adapted to his new circumstances and how involved he got with the community on the island. It was sweet how he cared about the people and his role as a priest. It added a lot to his character to see him trying to find his place, while also keeping a lot of secrets.
I really enjoyed Mat and Peyton’s story, it was overall a very well written and intriguing read. It was different than what I expected, in all the good ways, and I’ll definitely read more from this author!
June 2, 2023
This was a book I couldn't put down once I started reading it. Please read the trigger warnings. May is pretending to be a priest on a remote island. He meets Peyton who wants to be punished. This book has it all kink, intrigue, heat, and a great story line. I love how K.C. Carmine writes her characters. Can these two men get their happy ending, you will have to read the book to find out. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 29, 2023
I loved it. Great story and lots of hurt/comfort and penance was my favorite one. This book has laughter, sadness, forgiveness and revelations that you don't see coming until its too late to back out. I loved how each character is able to be supportive and understanding of each others situation. Can't wait for more.
June 10, 2023
After being in danger in London, Mat is sent to a small island off the coast acting as a priest. There he meets Peyton and they find they are both into BDSM. However, all isn't as it seems.
An interesting premise. The 2 finally are back in London and they decide to pursue a relationship.
Whilst this is a really good book, I would recommend you take note of the triggers.
An interesting premise. The 2 finally are back in London and they decide to pursue a relationship.
Whilst this is a really good book, I would recommend you take note of the triggers.
June 3, 2023
By reading the description, you think you are prepared to what is coming and oh boy you are not! This takes kink to a new level, and it's so satisfying! Great read if you're into kink with a great plot as well! Story kept me intrigued and engaged the entire time. So sit back and get ready to have your mind open to new things.
June 4, 2023
Oh I just loved this dark and delicious taboo tale, well deserving of 5 stars.
Peyton and Mat's relationship was steamy from the confessional right through to their beautiful HEA.
The strong storyline and character development were spot on.
Go read this now!!
Peyton and Mat's relationship was steamy from the confessional right through to their beautiful HEA.
The strong storyline and character development were spot on.
Go read this now!!
May 30, 2023
This book was so good. Mat and Peyton were very hot. HEA was a blessing that u never knew i needed.
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