Forgive Me, Father, for I Have Read
have a new book bestie this year who lives for spice and smut, and she has made it her mission to curate a must-read list for me. I am officially here for it. Priest by Sierra Simone was her first recommendation, and it was the perfect re-entry point. It has been since college since I’ve picked up anything this heavy on the steam, and wow—what an introduction back.
First off, can we talk about the marketing? The gorgeous, minimalist floral covers are a stroke of genius. They are discreet enough that you could almost get away with reading this at your desk if you’re feeling brave, though once you get past the first few chapters, you’ll realize the cover is the only “tame” thing about this book!
Don’t get me wrong: the spice is on another level. It is unapologetic, intense, and masterfully written. However, what caught me off guard was the emotional weight. This isn’t just a spicy read; it’s a thoughtful exploration of guilt, religion, and self-worth. Tyler and Poppy’s story is as gut-wrenching as it is provocative. Simone weaves themes of loss, healing, and faith in ways that left me ruminating long after the final page. Her prose is lush and evocative, perfectly balancing those moments of high passion with quiet, reflective scenes that delve into the characters’ internal struggles.
The tension in this book is built on the ultimate “forbidden” foundation. If you are deeply religious, the content might feel blasphemous (Tyler is a man of the cloth, after all) but if you’re open to the narrative, there is so much to unpack regarding how we define “sin” versus “love.”
Priest is an unforgettable read that challenges expectations. It delivers the smut, but it brings the heart and the heartache along with it. My friend mentioned that while the series continues, the story for this specific couple doesn’t just end here, which is interesting enough that I’ve already added book two to my list. I’ll just be reading the sequel at home, not at work. I don’t think my poker face is that good.
