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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Sinful Crimes for the Artistically Inclined is a wild mix of humour, romance, action, a bit of mystery, and drama that doesn’t hold back on its chaotic energy. From the start, it throws you right into the action, immediately setting a fast pace that doesn’t let up. It’s unapologetically over-the-top in a way that’s actually pretty charming, even if it might not be for everyone.
The story is written in an episodic format, like a series of mini-adventures all tied together into the larger plot. This works surprisingly well, as each mini-story keeps things moving, but it’s still building up the bigger picture as Percy and Joe’s relationship evolves.
Of course, Percy and Joe are definitely the heart of this book. Their dynamic is full of humour, banter, flirtation and opposites attract vibes. But honestly, Percy’s a bit of a hot mess. He’s an art historian/gentleman thief with a (worrying) thing for Caravaggio, a serious disregard for rules, and questionable decision-making. Joe, on the other hand, is a sweet yet brave priest with an unshakable moral compass. Despite their wildly different personalities, they balance each other out perfectly. Their chemistry is also undeniable and their emotional connection feels real, even if their communication skills could use some (A LOT OF) work. I do hope there’s less lying (or lying by omission) in the next book because it’s starting to get frustrating…and not in a fun way.
I did have a couple of issues with the book.
First, starting the book I felt like I've walked into a story halfway through. It wasn't until later that I found out this book is actually a spin-off of the "Endymion College" trilogy. Since I didn’t read the trilogy, it was a little confusing and frustrating. I felt like I was missing out on some key backstory about the characters. And since there are hints and references to a shared history between the characters that aren’t fully explained I think a more detailed flashback or a proper recap might have helped fill in those gaps and make things clearer for new readers like me.
The second issue was the romantic drama/romantic sub-subplot. There’s a lot of back-and-forth about feelings involving Percy, Joe, Anna and Evelyn. The whole love square(?) thing felt like unnecessary soap opera drama. It didn’t really add much to the story, unless my frustration with it counts. If the goal was to create more angst for Percy and Joe, it wasn’t needed. They already have enough on their plate as it is and this just ended up being a distraction from the main plot.
That said, this book is an entertaining read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s packed with twists, action, and plenty of humour that lightens up even the bloodiest moments. There are some great side characters and just enough angst and jealousy to keep things interesting without overdoing it. And the whole trip across Europe adds to the overall fun, making it feel like a nonstop adventure where chaos and surprises are always around the corner.
I would "warn" that it is written in the third-person omniscient point of view. This lets you really get into the characters’ heads, but at times it can be a bit confusing.
Sinful Crimes for the Artistically Inclined is a fun and entertaining ride with two flawed but loveable main characters. Percy and Joe’s relationship is seriously a mix of frustration and sweetness that keeps you rooting for them…even when they make you want to shake some sense into them.
I’m definitely curious to see where their story goes next and what kind of chaos they’ll create along the way.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
The story is written in an episodic format, like a series of mini-adventures all tied together into the larger plot. This works surprisingly well, as each mini-story keeps things moving, but it’s still building up the bigger picture as Percy and Joe’s relationship evolves.
Of course, Percy and Joe are definitely the heart of this book. Their dynamic is full of humour, banter, flirtation and opposites attract vibes. But honestly, Percy’s a bit of a hot mess. He’s an art historian/gentleman thief with a (worrying) thing for Caravaggio, a serious disregard for rules, and questionable decision-making. Joe, on the other hand, is a sweet yet brave priest with an unshakable moral compass. Despite their wildly different personalities, they balance each other out perfectly. Their chemistry is also undeniable and their emotional connection feels real, even if their communication skills could use some (A LOT OF) work. I do hope there’s less lying (or lying by omission) in the next book because it’s starting to get frustrating…and not in a fun way.
I did have a couple of issues with the book.
First, starting the book I felt like I've walked into a story halfway through. It wasn't until later that I found out this book is actually a spin-off of the "Endymion College" trilogy. Since I didn’t read the trilogy, it was a little confusing and frustrating. I felt like I was missing out on some key backstory about the characters. And since there are hints and references to a shared history between the characters that aren’t fully explained I think a more detailed flashback or a proper recap might have helped fill in those gaps and make things clearer for new readers like me.
The second issue was the romantic drama/romantic sub-subplot. There’s a lot of back-and-forth about feelings involving Percy, Joe, Anna and Evelyn. The whole love square(?) thing felt like unnecessary soap opera drama. It didn’t really add much to the story, unless my frustration with it counts. If the goal was to create more angst for Percy and Joe, it wasn’t needed. They already have enough on their plate as it is and this just ended up being a distraction from the main plot.
That said, this book is an entertaining read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s packed with twists, action, and plenty of humour that lightens up even the bloodiest moments. There are some great side characters and just enough angst and jealousy to keep things interesting without overdoing it. And the whole trip across Europe adds to the overall fun, making it feel like a nonstop adventure where chaos and surprises are always around the corner.
I would "warn" that it is written in the third-person omniscient point of view. This lets you really get into the characters’ heads, but at times it can be a bit confusing.
Sinful Crimes for the Artistically Inclined is a fun and entertaining ride with two flawed but loveable main characters. Percy and Joe’s relationship is seriously a mix of frustration and sweetness that keeps you rooting for them…even when they make you want to shake some sense into them.
I’m definitely curious to see where their story goes next and what kind of chaos they’ll create along the way.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Violence, Blood
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
This book was just…plain…FUN! I read a lot of dark romance so when the opportunity arises for a more lighthearted comedic read I love to take advantage and this book made me smile, laugh, and roll my eyes, cause you know….Percy. This guy, lol. But I’ll get to him.
Firstly, don’t let Joe fool you. This guy may be a virgin priest, but there is no taboo, forbidden love, angsty I’m suffering going on here. Joe knows exactly what (and who) he wants and he goes for it. Right away. Fast Burn activated! While I would say he is a devoted priest, celibacy has been taken off the table and I’m here for it! He is such a sweetheart and Percy’s moral compass. That kinda works, kinda not works, lol.
Percy. Ohhh Percy. This guy is soooo devoted to Joe. Like will do anything to keep him happy and wants to lavish him with the best food, drink, accommodations and vacations. All while trying to still do his morally grey odd jobs while keeping Joe none the wiser. He somewhat succeeds in this endeavor but he gots some splaining to do cause he is a liar, liar, pants on fire!
But then again Joe is hiding something from his past I really want to know too! These men! What a pair they are, perfectly imperfect. I feel a reckoning coming their way and I can’t wait for it!
Their story is so entertaining and the banter is top notch. They travel the world, trying to be a normal couple but when you end up having to survive booby traps and soul eaters (though what else is going to happen when stealing a priceless artifact?), rescue a girl from a princess (yes, a real princess) while avoiding getting killed by her zombie army, who may or may not be into auto erotica asphyxiation?? And in the middle of all this they still manage A LOT of spicy time. Which, I mean, thank the lord for that! Hehe.
I loved this read and am absolutely looking forward to more Joe and Percy!
adventurous
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
But Joe was a priest. Part of the fucking priesthood that had been ruining beautiful Italian men for the world since day fucking dot.
Omg this book. I can’t even begin to describe how chaotic and lovable these characters are.
Percy is the most chaotic man ever. And I love him, he’s my spirit animal.
Joe is SO WHOLESOME AND PURE (except… you know). I want to protect him so badly.
Althea is so intriguing! I definitely want to know more about her…
If you like action, chaos, morally grey characters, spicy and *slightly* (😂) toxic romance, please read this book asap.
Thank you to WH Lockwood for providing an ARC of this book, it was just what I needed 🫶🏼
I was incredibly fortunate to have been given the eARC for “Sinful Crimes For The Artistically Inclined” by W.H. Lockwood. This book is the first part of an exhilarating duology that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Prepare to be immersed in a supernatural rom-com that follows Percy, the enigmatic art history enthusiast, and Joe, the charismatic Catholic priest. Lockwood’s storytelling is masterful, seamlessly blending eeriness, thrills, and romance. The banter and bickering between Joe and Percy are not only endearing but also downright hilarious. The MM romance is so intense and passionate that it'll leave you yearning for more. I am counting down the days until 2025 to see how this incredible journey concludes!
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Joe has had a thing for the sexy demon killing, art historian Percy for months. One problem: He's a catholic priest. One faithful night, Joe sees his chances slip through his fingers and he's forced to show his feelings towards Percy or lose him forever.
This book is so wild! And fun! And unhinged! I loved it!! One disaster follows the other as Percy is determined to not let Joe in on his double life. But he's struggling to keep up with his facade while crime, blood and zombies keep getting in their way.
If you like fast paced, action packed, hilarious and steamy stories, topped with theft, murder and zombies, you should definitely put "Sinful Crimes for the Artistically Inclined" on your TBR. I can't wait for part 2!!
This book is so wild! And fun! And unhinged! I loved it!! One disaster follows the other as Percy is determined to not let Joe in on his double life. But he's struggling to keep up with his facade while crime, blood and zombies keep getting in their way.
If you like fast paced, action packed, hilarious and steamy stories, topped with theft, murder and zombies, you should definitely put "Sinful Crimes for the Artistically Inclined" on your TBR. I can't wait for part 2!!
This reads like bad written fanficion, also the author forgot to mention this is part of a series. It cannot be read separately, you won't understand shit. I buddy read this with a friend and the whole time we had the feeling we are missing a prequel. I guess we were right.
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
DNFd at 16%
When I first requested an ARC of this, I thought it was the first in a series. When I learned it was the first in a *spin-off* series, I checked with the author if the Endymion College trilogy needed to be read to understand Sinful Crimes. I was assured that it wasn't necessary because it was written in a way where you'd understand all the important details without having read Endymion. Well, I had the money and time, so I read Endymion 1-3. I didn't really enjoy them that much, but I loved Joe and Percy's characters, and they featured heavily through all 3 books.
I'm glad I read them, because page 1 literally repeats a scene featured in Endymion book 3. However it was that weird fever dream A Trip to Hell in Four Acts, which made no sense and didn't fit at all into the timeline. Because of the vague, confusing way it was written, it wasn't even clear if that actually happened or not, so seeing it here, word for word, was confusing to say the least.
However, while I understand the point - to show Joe and Percy's side of events - it REALLY doesn't work in a standalone story. There's a definite sense of not following the scene, like something is missing or that you've walked in halfway through a story - which you have! The first few chapters of recapping how they got together could have benefitted from being a flashback instead, which requires less context, rather than the long-winded option of rehashing events that have no bearing on THIS plot or timeline.
I was actually hoping that the book would start with Joe and Percy's trip, while Anna was with Demon-Evelyn, because Joe had to recover from an intense injury and he and Percy went to Italy. Then at the end of Book 3 of Endymion Joe and Percy went travelling again together to Poland.
Joe's history with Anna and her friends is complex and spans the entire Endymion College trilogy, whereas Percy really only comes in full-frame during Book 3, though he has influence in the other 2 books as well.
For that reason, I'd say that you can't really understand Joe or Percy as characters unless you've also read Endymion College, which is a tough sell, since one series is MF and the other MM.
And recapping through a ONE PAGE COMIC is REALLY NOT appropriate. This is actually done TWICE and feels like a - and I hate saying this, because it sounds harsh, but it's true - really lazy solution.
I'm sorry, but this book ONLY makes sense within the Endymion College world, not as a separate entity, which I was led to believe.
Despite that, however, there are multiple consistency issues between events here and events in the trilogy! Percy talks to Joe about having the Spear of Destiny, it's sheath and having searched Libya. However, it's JOE who tells Percy to look in Libya in Book 2, and there wasn't enough time between then and now to say Percy simply took up Joe's suggestion. Also, Joe seems super surprised by the skeletons in Percy's basement despite the fact he WAS THERE when they first appeared in Book 3 of Endymion.
I stopped at 16% because I'm disappointed. I loved Joe and Percy in the trilogy - they were the ONLY reason I kept reading to the end. I was expecting flirting, simmering attraction and action packed adventure. I got none of that. Just 16% of sex and the build up to it.
I'm sorry to say that this book...this series...and this author...are not for me. Other people might not mind the inconsistencies and artistic choices but they're not really my taste.
DNFd at 16%
When I first requested an ARC of this, I thought it was the first in a series. When I learned it was the first in a *spin-off* series, I checked with the author if the Endymion College trilogy needed to be read to understand Sinful Crimes. I was assured that it wasn't necessary because it was written in a way where you'd understand all the important details without having read Endymion. Well, I had the money and time, so I read Endymion 1-3. I didn't really enjoy them that much, but I loved Joe and Percy's characters, and they featured heavily through all 3 books.
I'm glad I read them, because page 1 literally repeats a scene featured in Endymion book 3. However it was that weird fever dream A Trip to Hell in Four Acts, which made no sense and didn't fit at all into the timeline. Because of the vague, confusing way it was written, it wasn't even clear if that actually happened or not, so seeing it here, word for word, was confusing to say the least.
However, while I understand the point - to show Joe and Percy's side of events - it REALLY doesn't work in a standalone story. There's a definite sense of not following the scene, like something is missing or that you've walked in halfway through a story - which you have! The first few chapters of recapping how they got together could have benefitted from being a flashback instead, which requires less context, rather than the long-winded option of rehashing events that have no bearing on THIS plot or timeline.
I was actually hoping that the book would start with Joe and Percy's trip, while Anna was with Demon-Evelyn, because Joe had to recover from an intense injury and he and Percy went to Italy. Then at the end of Book 3 of Endymion Joe and Percy went travelling again together to Poland.
Joe's history with Anna and her friends is complex and spans the entire Endymion College trilogy, whereas Percy really only comes in full-frame during Book 3, though he has influence in the other 2 books as well.
For that reason, I'd say that you can't really understand Joe or Percy as characters unless you've also read Endymion College, which is a tough sell, since one series is MF and the other MM.
And recapping through a ONE PAGE COMIC is REALLY NOT appropriate. This is actually done TWICE and feels like a - and I hate saying this, because it sounds harsh, but it's true - really lazy solution.
I'm sorry, but this book ONLY makes sense within the Endymion College world, not as a separate entity, which I was led to believe.
Despite that, however, there are multiple consistency issues between events here and events in the trilogy! Percy talks to Joe about having the Spear of Destiny, it's sheath and having searched Libya. However, it's JOE who tells Percy to look in Libya in Book 2, and there wasn't enough time between then and now to say Percy simply took up Joe's suggestion. Also, Joe seems super surprised by the skeletons in Percy's basement despite the fact he WAS THERE when they first appeared in Book 3 of Endymion.
I stopped at 16% because I'm disappointed. I loved Joe and Percy in the trilogy - they were the ONLY reason I kept reading to the end. I was expecting flirting, simmering attraction and action packed adventure. I got none of that. Just 16% of sex and the build up to it.
I'm sorry to say that this book...this series...and this author...are not for me. Other people might not mind the inconsistencies and artistic choices but they're not really my taste.
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I started it a few weeks ago but couldn’t get into it i think it was because I’ve been ill and just not in the mood . I’m glad i picked it up again and finished it though as it was a riot of silliness and sarcasm and I can’t wait for the next book.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Note: I did not read the previous trilogy where these characters are first introduced.
Where do I even begin? This book is first and foremost irreverent, chaotic, and bordering on crack!fic. If you are a fan of Alice Winters, this book will be absolutely up your alley. I do recommend reading the Endymion College series first, because I'll admit, when I began this book, I had no idea what to expect and ended up wildly and completely confused for the first couple of chapters. That all made sense when I realized there is an entire backstory in a previous trilogy. Despite this, I ended up grinning my way through this entire book. You just need to make sure you click yourself into the right ride in your mind. The POV is third person omniscient (rare!) and it is very irreverent rather than super serious.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Yes!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Percy and Joe are absolutely the highlights of this book. The way they reacted throughout this book, all those major moments where you'd expect to see a cliche response that moves the plot forwards a certain way? They completely blast through those expectations. I spent nearly the whole book grinning and at one point I turned a page and burst out laughing. I had to put the book down for a few minutes because I was just laughing, such was the extent that I wasn't expecting what was on the next page. Joe and Percy are wildly complex for all of their... abnormalities. They're really beautiful together and I adore their relationship as it very quickly develops and develops and develops.
PLOT: Part friends-to-lovers, part we're-doing-criminal-things-for-very-good-reasons, this first book follows Joe and Percy as they get together and figure out how to bring their lives together, in all of their atheism and Catholicism, their high-morals and grey-morals, their virgin vs. sexually experienced natures. For a main portion of the plot, Percy wants to reunite the Spear of Destiny with its sheath and Joe knows where it is. So they're attempting to steal it. In almost every way they are equals, balancing each other out with strengths that truly make them stronger as a team. Near the end we realize that there is a larger force at play, one that will continue into the next book and seems specifically focused on Percy and Joe now.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
3/5: medium. I'll admit, I was surprised that at one point I had a heart-thumping moment, considering how irreverent and comedic this story is.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
90%. I really didn't feel there was a major climactic event in this first book, but the book itself is so wildly chaotic that I was honestly just enjoying the ride for most of it. I do hope the stakes will amp up in the second book of the duology, but for book one, I'm content.
Note: I did not read the previous trilogy where these characters are first introduced.
Where do I even begin? This book is first and foremost irreverent, chaotic, and bordering on crack!fic. If you are a fan of Alice Winters, this book will be absolutely up your alley. I do recommend reading the Endymion College series first, because I'll admit, when I began this book, I had no idea what to expect and ended up wildly and completely confused for the first couple of chapters. That all made sense when I realized there is an entire backstory in a previous trilogy. Despite this, I ended up grinning my way through this entire book. You just need to make sure you click yourself into the right ride in your mind. The POV is third person omniscient (rare!) and it is very irreverent rather than super serious.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Yes!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Percy and Joe are absolutely the highlights of this book. The way they reacted throughout this book, all those major moments where you'd expect to see a cliche response that moves the plot forwards a certain way? They completely blast through those expectations. I spent nearly the whole book grinning and at one point I turned a page and burst out laughing. I had to put the book down for a few minutes because I was just laughing, such was the extent that I wasn't expecting what was on the next page. Joe and Percy are wildly complex for all of their... abnormalities. They're really beautiful together and I adore their relationship as it very quickly develops and develops and develops.
PLOT: Part friends-to-lovers, part we're-doing-criminal-things-for-very-good-reasons, this first book follows Joe and Percy as they get together and figure out how to bring their lives together, in all of their atheism and Catholicism, their high-morals and grey-morals, their virgin vs. sexually experienced natures. For a main portion of the plot, Percy wants to reunite the Spear of Destiny with its sheath and Joe knows where it is. So they're attempting to steal it. In almost every way they are equals, balancing each other out with strengths that truly make them stronger as a team. Near the end we realize that there is a larger force at play, one that will continue into the next book and seems specifically focused on Percy and Joe now.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
3/5: medium. I'll admit, I was surprised that at one point I had a heart-thumping moment, considering how irreverent and comedic this story is.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
90%. I really didn't feel there was a major climactic event in this first book, but the book itself is so wildly chaotic that I was honestly just enjoying the ride for most of it. I do hope the stakes will amp up in the second book of the duology, but for book one, I'm content.