Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Novice: A Steamy Contemporary Rom Com

Rate this book
Fifty Shades of Grey meets The Truman Show in this hilarious and sizzling blend of sass and kink


What do you get when you cross sass, humor, and kink? You get 21-year-old Eden Banks—virgin, book dragon, and mistress of snark—who, after a wild night out, wakes up to find she has drunkenly signed a contract to join the Pleasure Academy—a hedonistic tropical island where she'll lose her V-card while discovering just how far down the rabbit hole of Kinkdom she’s willing to go.



From dreams of pastries and books to a seductive fantasy island, Eden is immersed in a world that’s part paradise, part live reality show, and a ton of spice. With feistiness and humor, Eden navigates the voyeuristic utopia while exploring the boundaries of her desires.



Will Eden fully embrace the wild ride or resist Pleasure Academy's scintillating allure? One thing's for sure—this island adventure is one she'll never forget.



Prepare to laugh, gasp, and fan yourself as you dive into the unforgettable world of Pleasure Academy, where the sun is hot, the nights are hotter, and the humor is off the charts.

204 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2024

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Fiona Wolfe

1 book13 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
41 (32%)
4 stars
38 (30%)
3 stars
30 (24%)
2 stars
13 (10%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Mia S..
649 reviews50 followers
December 24, 2024
cliffhanger!

But why????? Ok since I’m a sucker and watched Love Island and also Naked and Afraid this is the merge and yes would watch this show! A good build up, cliffhanger which meh but Eden is just a funny character.
Profile Image for Lauren Barnes.
124 reviews1 follower
July 25, 2024
Novice by Fiona Wolfe has been the most fun book I’ve read this summer! I loved every second of the story and definitely plan to reread in the future. All the characters in the book are so well written. Regardless of if they are a primary or secondary character they had full personalities and were easy to connect to. My personal favorites included Eden, Darien, Blanche, Lily, Zed, Oliver, and Scarlett. In particular, Eden, the FMC with her sass, ability to be unapologetically herself, and a willingness to still grow doing things that push her limits is what drew me into the book. The relationship between Eden and her chosen partner, their support, and the spice is what kept me reading! Vague I know but I don’t want to spoil anything! From start to finish I laughed out loud more times than I could count and choked on my drink during a particularly large outburst. I cannot wait for book two and will be reading it the second it releases. Fiona Wolfe’s Novice is not to be missed and I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Abbey VeRoh.
3 reviews
September 16, 2024
Hilarious, Sexy, and Intriguing … Boundless Potential

~Please excuse my following profanity; which you won’t mind if you at all enjoyed this book~

I thoroughly enjoyed this novella(?) for its LESS THAN 200 PAGES(?)!! Why so short? I don’t know. Why so fast? No idea. I feel like I was teasingly pulled into some inventive world of kinky fuckery and then mind-fucked so hard I. Just. Can’t. Even.

BECAUSE! Where’s the ending Fiona? I feel betrayed. Let’s just work us up to where the plot thickens and drop it off like the most disappointing climax ever. Thank you, never. I shall fume until the next installment.

~Now for the real review~

First, on the character of Eden. We love her. All of her curvy, snarky, RAW self is refreshing if not at some times crude. But it’s real and we love that. She’s no perfect maiden. She’s no broken and bruised badass with a dark past. And she’s certainly no damsel. She’s just Eden. A young, sassy woman discovering herself and her sexuality (in the kinkiest of places). It’s a go for Eden.

Adversely, on the topic of love interest/male lead/ lover, we’re all wondering what the hell the deal is here. It’s giving very 50 shades of sexy, brooding man who’s obviously got a bit of a dark side hiding behind the curtain, and Eden picks up on as little as we do. Where this character line differs is that we don’t get much indirect development from Eden’s thoughts or musings. Truth be told, other than how sexy he is and sex with him on her mind, she doesn’t really THINK. At least not deeply. It feels cheap almost, to only be in it for the sex — which let’s be real, is well written enough we don’t mind much — but we do not really get to know Eden and the people around her through her eyes. Understandably, she’s clumsily falling over herself to figure out the hectic, absolutely nuts lifestyle of the island and sort out where her feelings should end and begin, but we could use a little MORE.

Lastly, the lack of some character development/background contributes to how fast paced this read is, despite that it’s only a whopping 191 pages (and that’s if you count the final taunting page of “Eden will return”. If it’s meant to symbolize the torrent of sexcapades Eden found herself suddenly surrounded and stunned by, we’re there. But, it leaves us feeling a little lack luster in love for this short story.

Nevertheless, we reiterate Boundless Potential. It’s a very fine line between liking and loving this little book because it’s unique and fun and wildly entertaining. And sexy. Very Sex-y. We are titillatingly intrigued to see how the plot unfolds and learn more about this structure of the Pleasure Academy itself and how it works. Despite the parts that leave us wanting, it’s safe to say this reader will at least enjoy the wild ride of whatever waits for us next.

Profile Image for Larae Perry.
264 reviews15 followers
August 31, 2024
Prepare to be swept away into a world where sass meets kink in Fiona Wolfe's "Novice Pleasure Academy." Imagine "Fifty Shades of Grey" colliding head-on with "The Truman Show," and you get this exhilarating blend of wit and sensuality. I was lucky enough to read the alpha and I just wanted more and more.

Meet Eden Banks, a sharp-tongued virgin who finds herself thrust into the Pleasure Academy after a night of wild decisions. From the moment she sets foot on this hedonistic tropical paradise, you're in for a rollercoaster ride of laughter, intrigue, and steamy encounters. Eden's journey from innocence to exploration is as hilarious as it is arousing, and Wolfe's writing keeps you hooked from page one.

The mix of humor and eroticism is perfectly balanced, creating a story that's both tantalizing and uproariously funny. Wolfe's knack for witty dialogue and vivid descriptions brings the island and its eccentric characters to life, making you feel like you're right there with Eden as she navigates this voyeuristic utopia.

If you're looking for a novel that will make you laugh out loud, blush furiously, and keep turning pages long into the night, look no further than "Novice Pleasure Academy." It's a delightfully addictive read that you won't be able to put down, with a protagonist you'll root for all the way to the explosive climax. Trust me, this is one island adventure you won't want to miss!
Profile Image for Morana  Bylur.
144 reviews10 followers
July 13, 2024
I had the absolute PRIVELEGE of being a beta reader for this book and omg. You guys are not prepared. This book is SO GOOD!!! Left me dying for the next one, which is in progress already!

If you like watching trashy reality TV, this is like if you could turn Love Island into a book- but make the show about losing your virginity to kink masters! The writing is so well done, you lose yourself in the main character's emotions and completely forget you're reading. This book is an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you wishing there were more pages at the end to keep reading.
261 reviews11 followers
August 8, 2024
I laughed so hard I was crying! Eden is the ultimate hot mess express. She is a sassy, full figured woman on a mission. Eden wants to open a bakery/bookstore. She must get through the Pleasure Academy to make her dreams a reality.
Profile Image for Meg.
418 reviews26 followers
November 15, 2025
I question of this author has ever been to a gynecologist
Profile Image for Lexie Ahren.
278 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2025
Such a fun novella omg, I was cackling and eating it up the entire time
Profile Image for The Bibliophagist .
238 reviews28 followers
July 31, 2024
Eden wakes up from a crazy night of partying to find she has signed up to partake in a popular TV show, Pleasure Academy. Now she is on the Island to lose her V card and finds just how far she will go for what she has never had.

Eden was so sassy and I loved it! The reader is able to see the authenticity of her thoughts while she learns the ins and outs of her new home for the next year. While some may enjoy this island of Masters, Eden’s sass tends to get her into trouble. However, her viewers love it!

The book was very well written and I literlaly hated putting it down. I will say that I loved how well the ‘scenes’ were done. They are more tasteful that the famous Fifty Shades of Grey. There is a true glimpse at the dom and sub relationship within these pages and very well depicted.

I loved this so much and absolutely need more of the MMC. There are some dark secrets that I want to know!

Overall, this was a very easy read and I found myself laughing out loud or shaking my head much like others in Eden’s new life. We are offered not only a fun story but an experience of being in the head of the main character and seeing what all of this is like first hand for her. Every ounce of pleasure and sass is written for us to enjoy ourselves as we step into this new experience right along side Eden.

I received this early copy in exchange for my honest review. This review only holds my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Samantha Ness.
107 reviews7 followers
August 14, 2024
“I don’t mean to be an eager beaver, but this chick’s beaver is really f**king eager.”

Novice: Pleasure Academy by @fionawolfebooks hits the top of my list for hilariously written snark, sass, & spice. A game show that’s reminiscent of Love Island but hotter, sexier, higher stakes, & all around sassier, this book was the perfect blend of everything you could want in a hilarious yet sexy romance book. The sheer number of comical pop-culture references had me hollering with glee. If I can’t be Eden I sure as hell want to be her friend!

Eden is the snarkiest character with so many quips I was kicking my feet giggling! “If I thought you were worth stopping for, I would have.” Pretty sure my note for this says: daaaaaaamn! “First, you take a drink, and then the drink takes you.” I loved her by the very first page.

Darien is sooooo ugghhh hot I immediately fell in love with him after his first Lord of the Rings reference and his mysterious backstory that has yet to be fully divulged! I need more!!

Everything about this book is perfect for my romance book friends who love a heck of a lot of spice, a ton of hilarious quips, pop-culture references that have you squealing with glee, and hot, hot, hot characters that you wish you could be or be with!

As Eden so eloquently states: “Damn. I sound like a horny b*tch.”

Thank you so much Fiona for sending me an arc copy, I loved it!
Profile Image for H.A. Hathaway.
Author 1 book11 followers
July 21, 2024
I went into this novel as a Novice myself, being one to steer clear of spice. But, the author reached out and offered me the opportunity to be an ARC reader, and I was thrilled! I love the FMC! She reminds me so much of myself with her snarky thoughts and comments… most of which were laugh out loud funny! And I loved all the pop cultural references throughout! and the MMC is VERY dreamy. The two of them were a perfect combo for all the feisty spicy content!
The idea of the reality cam series is so original and very entertaining, I haven’t seen anything like it yet! Very well thought through and executed brilliantly.

Being a non-spice reader, this gets a full 5 peppers from me, but I can see it being a 3-4 depending on your comfort level. The witty banter and sassy narration get a full 5 stars from me. I can see a lot of people really getting invested in this storyline, and being excited for what comes next from Fiona! I’m sure I’ll also be reading what is to come, as it truly had me hanging on every word, and I am a day one fan and supporter of this author and series!
Profile Image for Courtney Shea.
33 reviews8 followers
July 23, 2024
What would Eden do?

This book had me in tears laughing so hard! Eden is a firecracker!! If you want a hilarious story line mixed with some spice that will make you blush the deepest red🥵, and a FMC that is as real and raw as they get.. dive on in.

Think reality dating show, nudist colony, tropical vacation vibes, and hanging with the realest girlfriend you know.

The MMC is to die for but the show stealer is definitely Eden’s squire Zed! Fiona has a way of character development that leaves you loving all the side characters as much as you do the main characters.

I loved the story line. You have an edge of mystery mixed in with some AMAZING nerdism. There are some hilarious nods to the best nerdy movies, books, and everything in between.

I won’t spoil anything so I will have to cut this review here, but this is the best rom-com I’ve read. Loved every second of it!
Profile Image for warywolf3.
222 reviews5 followers
Read
July 29, 2024
This book was awesome from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the banter that comment that she makes right before she gets herself in trouble every single time and it's like That it's going to be Hilarious I thoroughly enjoyed the book the world building the characters everything was fully flushed out there were no plot holes there was no dialog Missing dishes should have been there and every bit of dialog that was there was funny Or in a tiny and Things that she says and does are just I don't know that I could ever ever be that brave but I gotta say She stuck with her word and kept to it and I was impressed incredibly impressed with how well she did And her attitude and It was thoroughly enjoyable And I highly recommend it as a read It does have a lot of spice.
Profile Image for Andie Hann.
21 reviews
September 12, 2024
Started and finished in one day - the reason for my rating was it felt unfinished. Which I’m sure is why there is a second book - but the end of the book leaves off in a really odd place. I know this would technically be called smut but the actual sex doesn’t start till 60% so it’s almost a slow burn?! Which doesn’t make any damn sense. Also - the lead up to the spicy scenes are more enjoyable than the actual p3netrativ3 scenes. So odd, like they last for a small paragraph where as everything else is super descriptive. I will probably be reading the second book, thought it was out already but alas - not till December.
Profile Image for DBR Editing.
410 reviews10 followers
July 16, 2024
So, this book exceeded my expectations! I was recommend this from a friend and had added it to my kindle TBR. However, Fiona reached out and asked me to read it and give my thoughts. I typically read dark spicy romance with some fluff thrown in every once and a while. Well, Novice gave me all the fluff and spice with lots of snark to boot.

I loved this book and FMC, and the MMC is woo where is my fan kinda hot. I loved the FMC's banter with her "handler" and her sass was top tier. I cannot wait to see where Fiona takes this series! It will be one where I will require the trophy!
Profile Image for C. Goben.
127 reviews
August 3, 2024
Eden is such a ball of sass, and Darien is so hot I can’t stand it! What a great introduction into the world of the Pleasure Academy — kink, humor, sexual exploration, and just overall so much fun. Absolutely loved the characters, and I love the reality TV aspect of the plot. I’m so eager to see what comes next, Fiona did such an amazing job introducing this new world and I can’t wait to dive all the way in!
Profile Image for Shelby Smith.
198 reviews6 followers
January 15, 2025
This is from my special edition probably smut novella advent. I will say there was some absolutely funny things in here that I love but for a literal pleasure island they only sealed the deal 2 times. Also I was leaning more towards 3 stars but I could not handle the use of the word “mons”. Give me a visceral ick response. If that word doesn’t bother you definitely give my a go it’s pretty funny honestly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Saharah Vanvalkenburgh.
431 reviews5 followers
July 23, 2024
So the fmc is a virgin 21 year old who signed herself up for a show that is online on an island . Eden is the fmc, and she is sparky, loud mouth. This place is for doms and submissive, and eden doesn't have a submissive bone in her body. There are punishment, and boy does she get socked with different punishment because she doesn't know how to be quit and do as told. This was a 3 🌶
Profile Image for Terri West.
2,277 reviews
August 26, 2024
An entertaining read with a great mixture of humour, sass and spice. A Curvy FMC who is on a voyage of discovery, although sometimes her filter is seriously broken.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the lighthearted tone was just the pick me up I needed and I can't wait for Eden's next adventure. This is a cleverly written book with great characters and a well paced plot.
5 sassy, spicy stars.
Profile Image for Qu33nsara.
119 reviews4 followers
November 19, 2024
Ok, so hear me out, everyone... this book!!!! Amazing!!!!! Being a "thick" woman myself, her character was on point. I love the writing style and the story 😍 I can't wait to read what happens next with Eden.
Profile Image for Cheryl Sims.
235 reviews20 followers
July 18, 2024
OMG this book is so good I love the sass the FMC has and the spice is spicy 🥵🥵🥵 I love this boooook soooooooo much and I need to get a signed copy ASAP I highly recommend to anyone over the age of 18
Profile Image for Vixen.
93 reviews11 followers
July 20, 2024
An amazing and fun read full of spice and adventure into kinkdom, lol. Just ignore the cameras hahaha.
Profile Image for April Bonner.
17 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2024
This book had me laughing through the whole thing! You can't help but love Eden with all her snarkiness and the things that happen. Fiona Wolfe, I'm ready for the next one!!!
Profile Image for Cindy Crivellone.
161 reviews3 followers
August 8, 2024
I adore Eden and all of her antics what a fun spicy book! I can’t wait to read more!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Jamie  Calhoun.
428 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this book. Super funny and filled with snark and kink. Left me wanting more at the end. Can't wait to see what Eden gets up to next.
Profile Image for Cathye Aka OrionReads .
296 reviews15 followers
July 22, 2024
This was a lot of fun to read. Great humor and pop culture references. The spice is just right!
Profile Image for Trevin Sandlin.
452 reviews
August 28, 2024
Borders on 4 stars. I think it is more of a 3 only because of the shortness - more a novella, really. But it was a fun read.
Profile Image for Cassie Weyl.
249 reviews2 followers
September 15, 2024
This was actually so funny and fun! Kinda dumb at some points but very entertaining!
1,335 reviews
June 9, 2025
This was my first read from this author and they definitely pulled me in but this one was a little hard for me to get into/keep engaged until they actually got to the island. I liked Eden's spunky nature but the Eden we saw in the beginning of the book didnt match who we got on the island, it felt like 2 totally different characters.

I liked her besties, appreciated her humor and snark haha. I also liked the side characters on the island, they provided a very amazing atmosphere and world building. I thought the different games and events on the island were hilarious, I could imagine them in my head as I was reading. I thought if this wasn't with all the nekkid people running around it could be an amazing tv show that the world should see haha. Definitely something they can put on normal tv, but it would be super entertaining, not gonna lie. I couldn't understand why Eden would blow up so quickly though, again her personality and more even-keel personality went out the window of that plane haha. I loved her Squire and her Master.....phew, need a fan for this book haha. He was delicious and I wanted more of him and can't wait to read more from this series. I thought the villain/tension with Scarlet was fantastic and liked how it just kept going. I thought when her Master praised her for declining/refusing Scarlett I laughed so hard and smiled a ton.

Steam was fabulous in this one. You would think with it being an erot!c@ and a pleasure island it would be overrun with it but it wasn't. I liked the plot (again surprising because I thought I would just be steam and comedy). This one was very funny and I loved how people think Eden is endearing with her antics haha. The funny moments with toys, the punishments, etc. I initially would have given it 3 stars but about 1/2 way through it really picked up and I finished it in like a day or two. This was the last book in my book box Christmas special advent box so I am officially done and happy I read them all, added a ton of new authors to my TBR and TBL list <3
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews