E. Baileu's Under Your Care is a provocative exploration of the complexities of human desire, trauma, and the blurred lines of professional ethics. As the first installment in the Twisted Desires series, this dark MM romance delves into the intricate dynamics between Lane Bennett, a young man grappling with the shadows of his past, and Dr. Greyson Cohen, a therapist whose professional boundaries are as flexible as his moral compass.

The novel opens with Lane Bennett, a character whose life has been marred by childhood trauma. Lane's journey is one of survival, and his struggle with feeling irreparably broken is palpable. E. Baileu crafts Lane with a depth that makes his pain and longing for affection both relatable and heart-wrenching. His mother's insistence on therapy is a familiar narrative for many who have faced similar struggles, and it sets the stage for Lane's reluctant return to a therapeutic environment that has previously failed him.

Enter Dr. Greyson Cohen, a therapist whose life is defined by routine and the mundane issues of his patients. However, his encounter with Lane is a catalyst for change, awakening desires and ethical dilemmas that he has never faced before. Baileu skillfully portrays Greyson as a character who is both intriguing and unsettling. His attraction to Lane is immediate and intense, and the novel does not shy away from exploring the morally ambiguous nature of their relationship.

The chemistry between Lane and Greyson is electric, and Baileu's writing captures the tension and forbidden allure of their interactions. Lane's internal conflict is a central theme, as he grapples with his attraction to Greyson and the red flags that accompany their increasingly inappropriate relationship. This dynamic is further complicated by Lane's desperate need for affection, which makes him willing to overlook the ethical breaches in Greyson's conduct.

Under Your Care is not just a romance; it is a deep dive into the psyche of two individuals who are both searching for something more in their lives. The novel's exploration of themes such as power dynamics, obsession, and the need for connection is both compelling and thought-provoking. Baileu does not shy away from the darker aspects of these themes, and the result is a story that is as unsettling as it is captivating.

The book's inclusion of elements such as high heat, lingerie, and Daddy kink adds layers to the characters' relationship, providing insight into their desires and vulnerabilities. These elements are woven into the narrative in a way that feels organic and integral to the characters' development. The presence of a cat, a seemingly minor detail, serves as a symbol of comfort and normalcy amidst the chaos of Lane and Greyson's relationship.

In terms of character development, Baileu excels at creating multifaceted characters who are both flawed and sympathetic. Lane's journey from a place of brokenness to one of empowerment is a testament to his resilience, while Greyson's internal struggle with his desires and professional ethics adds complexity to his character. The novel's conclusion, which promises a happily ever after, is satisfying yet leaves room for further exploration in the series.

Comparatively, Under Your Care shares thematic similarities with other dark romances, such as Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat, which also explores power dynamics and forbidden attraction. However, Baileu's focus on the therapist-patient relationship adds a unique twist to the genre, offering readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Under Your Care is a bold and daring novel that challenges readers to confront their own perceptions of morality and desire. E. Baileu's ability to weave a narrative that is both unsettling and deeply emotional is a testament to their skill as a storyteller. This book is a must-read for fans of dark romance who are looking for a story that pushes boundaries and explores the complexities of human connection.

While the novel may not be for everyone, particularly those who are uncomfortable with its darker themes, it is undeniably a compelling addition to the genre. Under Your Care is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the shadows of the human experience, and it leaves a lasting impact on its readers.