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The Castle: a YA contemporary romance set in a reality TV show
Stella wants a place at drama school—and she’ll do whatever it takes to win the scholarship that could get her there. Even if it means spending a week inside a medieval castle, method-acting her way through a reality TV audition with no script, just a character brief.
Playing Scarlett means being strong, rebellious, and always in control. Living in costume, in role, and under constant surveillance? Stella’s ready. She just didn’t count on Gareth—a mysterious servant who keeps interrupting her big moments. He’s frustrating, quiet, distractingly handsome… and he might not be who he says he is.
To win, the eight contestants must not only stay in character 24/7, but also survive a series of medieval-inspired challenges—from archery and map-reading to cryptic puzzles—designed to test more than just acting skills. As the lines blur between performance and reality, Stella begins to question what she really wants. The scholarship? The role? Or something deeper?
When real-world conflict threatens to shatter the carefully constructed world of the show, Stella faces an impossible keep playing the part, or step out of character and fight for the relationships that matter most.
Perfect for fans of The Inheritance Games and the TV show The Traitors, THE CASTLE is a twisty, romantic, high-stakes drama where ambition, identity, and truth collide behind the walls of a Welsh castle.
This is a kisses-only romance with no swearing, but plenty of swooning.
Playing Scarlett means being strong, rebellious, and always in control. Living in costume, in role, and under constant surveillance? Stella’s ready. She just didn’t count on Gareth—a mysterious servant who keeps interrupting her big moments. He’s frustrating, quiet, distractingly handsome… and he might not be who he says he is.
To win, the eight contestants must not only stay in character 24/7, but also survive a series of medieval-inspired challenges—from archery and map-reading to cryptic puzzles—designed to test more than just acting skills. As the lines blur between performance and reality, Stella begins to question what she really wants. The scholarship? The role? Or something deeper?
When real-world conflict threatens to shatter the carefully constructed world of the show, Stella faces an impossible keep playing the part, or step out of character and fight for the relationships that matter most.
Perfect for fans of The Inheritance Games and the TV show The Traitors, THE CASTLE is a twisty, romantic, high-stakes drama where ambition, identity, and truth collide behind the walls of a Welsh castle.
This is a kisses-only romance with no swearing, but plenty of swooning.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
4 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Toovey
11 books87 followersSophie Toovey loves reading and writing romance. She's an English teacher who drinks too much tea, and a total Jane Austen geek. She lives in Wales, in the UK, and enjoys smart romcoms where there's a bit of grit and realism. She writes clean, closed door romance with kisses only. Sign up for her newsletter at https://sophietoovey.com and receive a free ebook of I Want You Back, a contemporary retelling of Persuasion. If you follow Sophie on BookBub and Amazon, you'll get notified whenever she has a new release. Go to https://www.bookbub.com/profile/sophi... and to https://shorturl.at/7Hygj to follow her.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 31, 2025
The Castle by Sophie Toovey-Releasing June 17th
Stella, the FMC, plays the part of Scarlett in The Castle reality show. Both Stella and her alter identity are determined, intelligent, and insightful. Stella/Scarlett is easy to get behind and root for in her attempt to win the scholarship offered as well as in her real life conflicts.
From the beginning, The Castle drew me in, and I had a hard time putting this one down. Do you like suspense? Do you like drama? Do you like reality tv? Do you like YA romance? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then The Castle is for you! As the plot evolves through multiple plot twists, you get to know and care about not only Stella/Scarlett, but all the characters involved in the series.
I highly recommend The Castle! It is a wild ride from start to finish! I received an eARC copy of The Castle, and this is my honest review.
Blurb:
No script. No breaks. One shot at her dream.
Stella wants a place at drama school—and she’ll do whatever it takes to win the scholarship that could get her there. Even if it means spending a week inside a medieval castle, method-acting her way through a reality TV audition with no script, just a character brief.
Playing Scarlett means being strong, rebellious, and always in control. Living in costume, in role, and under constant surveillance? Stella’s ready. She just didn’t count on Gareth—a mysterious servant who keeps interrupting her big moments. He’s frustrating, quiet, distractingly handsome… and he might not be who he says he is.
To win, the contestants must not only stay in character 24/7, but also survive a series of medieval-inspired challenges—from archery and map-reading to cryptic puzzles—designed to test more than just acting skills. As the lines blur between performance and reality, Stella begins to question what she really wants. The scholarship? The role? Or something deeper? When real-world conflict threatens to shatter the carefully constructed world of the show, Stella faces an impossible choice: keep playing the part, or step out of character and fight for the relationships that matter most.
Perfect for fans of The Inheritance Games, The Castle is a twisty, romantic, high-stakes drama where ambition, identity, and truth collide behind the walls of a Welsh castle.
Tropes
*forbidden romance
*protective hero
*forced proximity
*kisses only
*reality tv show romance
*Arthurian legend
*fish out of water
*YA romance
*secret identity
Stella, the FMC, plays the part of Scarlett in The Castle reality show. Both Stella and her alter identity are determined, intelligent, and insightful. Stella/Scarlett is easy to get behind and root for in her attempt to win the scholarship offered as well as in her real life conflicts.
From the beginning, The Castle drew me in, and I had a hard time putting this one down. Do you like suspense? Do you like drama? Do you like reality tv? Do you like YA romance? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then The Castle is for you! As the plot evolves through multiple plot twists, you get to know and care about not only Stella/Scarlett, but all the characters involved in the series.
I highly recommend The Castle! It is a wild ride from start to finish! I received an eARC copy of The Castle, and this is my honest review.
Blurb:
No script. No breaks. One shot at her dream.
Stella wants a place at drama school—and she’ll do whatever it takes to win the scholarship that could get her there. Even if it means spending a week inside a medieval castle, method-acting her way through a reality TV audition with no script, just a character brief.
Playing Scarlett means being strong, rebellious, and always in control. Living in costume, in role, and under constant surveillance? Stella’s ready. She just didn’t count on Gareth—a mysterious servant who keeps interrupting her big moments. He’s frustrating, quiet, distractingly handsome… and he might not be who he says he is.
To win, the contestants must not only stay in character 24/7, but also survive a series of medieval-inspired challenges—from archery and map-reading to cryptic puzzles—designed to test more than just acting skills. As the lines blur between performance and reality, Stella begins to question what she really wants. The scholarship? The role? Or something deeper? When real-world conflict threatens to shatter the carefully constructed world of the show, Stella faces an impossible choice: keep playing the part, or step out of character and fight for the relationships that matter most.
Perfect for fans of The Inheritance Games, The Castle is a twisty, romantic, high-stakes drama where ambition, identity, and truth collide behind the walls of a Welsh castle.
Tropes
*forbidden romance
*protective hero
*forced proximity
*kisses only
*reality tv show romance
*Arthurian legend
*fish out of water
*YA romance
*secret identity
June 11, 2025
Before I begin, I would like to thank Sophie Toovey for allowing me to read a copy of her upcoming book, The Castle, which will be available on Amazon on June 17th, 2025.
Stella wants to be admitted into drama school, and she’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen. Now she’s at a medieval castle playing the role of Scarlett in a reality TV show and method-acting with only a character brief. Scarlett is supposed to be in control, confident, rebellious and strong. All eight contestants on the show, including Stella, are under constant surveillance as they have to stay in character 24/7 and solve challenges like archery and cryptic puzzles without knowing each other’s real identities. Stella also has to deal with a mysterious man named Gareth who’s always in the way of her big moments. Even though he’s handsome and quiet, he might not be who he portrays himself to be either. As the boundaries between acting and reality fade, can Stella figure out what she really wants and if winning is truly what matters most?
This story was great. You have Stella, a determined, ambitious, clever, sassy, and beautiful young woman who enjoys acting and wants to enroll in drama school. You have Gareth, a kind, quiet, strong, and handsome young man that is always in Stella’s periphery and holds many secrets. I loved Mel so much and the interactions between Gareth and Stella were charged, emotional, and funny. I thought the concept of the reality show was interesting, and Stella’s reactions as conflict arose were understandable. I enjoyed seeing Stella’s character grow as the show played out and appreciated how some issues in real life played into the plot as well. Overall, if you like reality shows, castles, secret identities, complex characters, and sweet romance with low spice, then I would highly recommend this book.
Stella wants to be admitted into drama school, and she’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen. Now she’s at a medieval castle playing the role of Scarlett in a reality TV show and method-acting with only a character brief. Scarlett is supposed to be in control, confident, rebellious and strong. All eight contestants on the show, including Stella, are under constant surveillance as they have to stay in character 24/7 and solve challenges like archery and cryptic puzzles without knowing each other’s real identities. Stella also has to deal with a mysterious man named Gareth who’s always in the way of her big moments. Even though he’s handsome and quiet, he might not be who he portrays himself to be either. As the boundaries between acting and reality fade, can Stella figure out what she really wants and if winning is truly what matters most?
This story was great. You have Stella, a determined, ambitious, clever, sassy, and beautiful young woman who enjoys acting and wants to enroll in drama school. You have Gareth, a kind, quiet, strong, and handsome young man that is always in Stella’s periphery and holds many secrets. I loved Mel so much and the interactions between Gareth and Stella were charged, emotional, and funny. I thought the concept of the reality show was interesting, and Stella’s reactions as conflict arose were understandable. I enjoyed seeing Stella’s character grow as the show played out and appreciated how some issues in real life played into the plot as well. Overall, if you like reality shows, castles, secret identities, complex characters, and sweet romance with low spice, then I would highly recommend this book.
January 28, 2026
The Castle is a unique and fun mix between a Reality TV Show, a Scavenger Hunt and a YA Romance.
It was interesting to see where this story would go and to guess what was part of the show and what wasn’t. And especially what behaviour was acting, what was authentic. Probably really difficult to trust people who you only know as playing a certain character.
I loved the setting of the castle and how Sophie Toovey described the place. This distracted me a bit from the whole Reality TV scenario - which was a good thing, since I’m honestly not a fan of those.
I liked Stella as a character and the added mystery made the book really entertaining.
The story is very well written, which I knew would be the case, since I have read everything by Sophie Toovey so far and absolutely love her kind of quiet narrating style.
This book is not my favorite of hers which has probably to do with the setting as it is. We don’t get to know the characters very well aside from Stella (and I would have been interested in even more of her backstory), since you’re never completely certain who is playing a role and what is real and we only have one POV. So I wasn’t as invested as I could have been, especially in the romance. But like I said, it’s definitely a fun and special kind of book.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
It was interesting to see where this story would go and to guess what was part of the show and what wasn’t. And especially what behaviour was acting, what was authentic. Probably really difficult to trust people who you only know as playing a certain character.
I loved the setting of the castle and how Sophie Toovey described the place. This distracted me a bit from the whole Reality TV scenario - which was a good thing, since I’m honestly not a fan of those.
I liked Stella as a character and the added mystery made the book really entertaining.
The story is very well written, which I knew would be the case, since I have read everything by Sophie Toovey so far and absolutely love her kind of quiet narrating style.
This book is not my favorite of hers which has probably to do with the setting as it is. We don’t get to know the characters very well aside from Stella (and I would have been interested in even more of her backstory), since you’re never completely certain who is playing a role and what is real and we only have one POV. So I wasn’t as invested as I could have been, especially in the romance. But like I said, it’s definitely a fun and special kind of book.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
June 20, 2025
Witty, romantic, and completely enchanting—The Castle is the kind of story that makes you believe in love, in dreams, and the challenge of staying in character… even when your heart has other plans.
I absolutely adored this book. The concept is irresistible—a drama student fully immersed in a character while living in a castle? Yes, please. Add in a slow-burn romance, clever dialogue, and emotional stakes that sneak up on you when you least expect it, and you’ve got a story that feels fresh, fun, and quietly profound.
Sophie Toovey delivers a heroine you root for, a love interest you definitely swoon for, and a setting that’s practically a character in itself. But what really stole my heart was the tension between performance and authenticity—how much of yourself can you hide before you start to disappear? And what happens when the role you're playing leads you straight into the arms of someone who might love the real you?
This is the kind of book that lingers like a warm spotlight after the curtain falls. If you love stories with heart, humor, romantic tension, and a touch of theatrical magic, The Castle deserves a permanent spot on your TBR.
I absolutely adored this book. The concept is irresistible—a drama student fully immersed in a character while living in a castle? Yes, please. Add in a slow-burn romance, clever dialogue, and emotional stakes that sneak up on you when you least expect it, and you’ve got a story that feels fresh, fun, and quietly profound.
Sophie Toovey delivers a heroine you root for, a love interest you definitely swoon for, and a setting that’s practically a character in itself. But what really stole my heart was the tension between performance and authenticity—how much of yourself can you hide before you start to disappear? And what happens when the role you're playing leads you straight into the arms of someone who might love the real you?
This is the kind of book that lingers like a warm spotlight after the curtain falls. If you love stories with heart, humor, romantic tension, and a touch of theatrical magic, The Castle deserves a permanent spot on your TBR.
June 3, 2025
A really enjoyable read that kept my attention throughout.
The story had pace and didn’t take long to into the meat of the book.
Likeable characters.
Great meet cute with love interest.
The combination of reality TV, scavenger hunt and fight to the end for the scholarship was fun and fresh. And also played on all those much loved tv shows that are hugely popular atm.
As a former acting student the stage combat and sword play scenes really took me back. The descriptions of the guest professionals were great. I think acting students are far more cut throat and out for themselves than these characters were.
The setting was beautiful and well described. Loved the romance of the medieval aspects, however for me there could have been more medieval language. I felt the characters felt and behaved very modern. Although I guess they are learning, and this was a great challenge.
Overall this book was a fantastic read, with constant action and a good pace. The protagonist was well written and likeable whilst being a bit broken/flawed.
If swoon worthy romance, picturesque castles, or YA is your thing - you’ll love this!
The story had pace and didn’t take long to into the meat of the book.
Likeable characters.
Great meet cute with love interest.
The combination of reality TV, scavenger hunt and fight to the end for the scholarship was fun and fresh. And also played on all those much loved tv shows that are hugely popular atm.
As a former acting student the stage combat and sword play scenes really took me back. The descriptions of the guest professionals were great. I think acting students are far more cut throat and out for themselves than these characters were.
The setting was beautiful and well described. Loved the romance of the medieval aspects, however for me there could have been more medieval language. I felt the characters felt and behaved very modern. Although I guess they are learning, and this was a great challenge.
Overall this book was a fantastic read, with constant action and a good pace. The protagonist was well written and likeable whilst being a bit broken/flawed.
If swoon worthy romance, picturesque castles, or YA is your thing - you’ll love this!
June 4, 2025
So many good quotes, but here are my top 3:
“His arms tighten around me.‘Stella.’ He says my name like it’s the best word he’s ever heard. ‘I’ve been waiting so long to hold you again.’I’ve been waiting for you my whole life, I think.”
“I know you want everyone to think you’re invincible,’ he continued, ‘but I can see who you really are, underneath all that. Someone sweet, with a real vulnerability.”
“This is not your only hope. Your future is bright, because I know you’re single-minded, and you’re going to work hard. There are no shortcuts for that, Stella.”
“His arms tighten around me.‘Stella.’ He says my name like it’s the best word he’s ever heard. ‘I’ve been waiting so long to hold you again.’I’ve been waiting for you my whole life, I think.”
“I know you want everyone to think you’re invincible,’ he continued, ‘but I can see who you really are, underneath all that. Someone sweet, with a real vulnerability.”
“This is not your only hope. Your future is bright, because I know you’re single-minded, and you’re going to work hard. There are no shortcuts for that, Stella.”
June 17, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book for free. Definitely an interesting story line. Most of the characters weren’t developed enough for me but that might be because it is a YA audience, which I didn’t realize when I signed up. The mfc is pretty well done, and it was nice seeing how the reality show helped her understand herself better and become more mature. I think young adults will enjoy it.
July 13, 2025
This was a good sweet read. The premise of people being put in a castle and staying in their role the whole time was interesting. You soon realize that the characters all have a hard time separating themselves and their characters and it makes for some interesting events. I also was not expecting the twist near the end. It brought up a lot of valid points about today's society. Overall I thought the book was well written and the plot was well developed.
June 2, 2025
This book is an absolute must read for readers who love young adult contemporary romance and I would definitely read it again! I love Stella’s character and how the story unfolds as she makes new relationships and has to make tough decisions. As she battles to win the drama scholarship, she has to do a series of challenges and experiences; all while acting like someone medieval for a week. This novel was a very enjoyable and gripping read and I couldn’t put it down!
June 3, 2025
☆☆☆☆
''I’ve been waiting for you my whole life , I think.''
Such a fun and fresh concept for a YA novel. I thoroughly enjoyed the drama between the cast and the twists and turns in the story. Definitely a must read for fans of the inheritance games and traitors. I kinda want a holiday in a castle now. Can someone make this a reality?
''I’ve been waiting for you my whole life , I think.''
Such a fun and fresh concept for a YA novel. I thoroughly enjoyed the drama between the cast and the twists and turns in the story. Definitely a must read for fans of the inheritance games and traitors. I kinda want a holiday in a castle now. Can someone make this a reality?
July 1, 2025
Great young adult story! Really enjoyed this his story! It’s not just for young adults, most anyone would enjoy the story. Engaging story about a young woman participating in a reality TV show. Lots of interesting characters and action, too. I recommend it!
July 6, 2025
This was such a fun book to read! I loved the behind the scenes look at a reality TV show including all the unexpected twists and turns in the story. Great characters, witty banter and a Welsh castle, oh, my.
August 17, 2025
2.5 🌟
It entertained me enough to continue and the concept was very interesting. However, there were some plot holes that I felt were controversial to the plot's own rules and some minor grammatic errors. Overall, I enjoyed the process of reading the story.
It entertained me enough to continue and the concept was very interesting. However, there were some plot holes that I felt were controversial to the plot's own rules and some minor grammatic errors. Overall, I enjoyed the process of reading the story.
October 27, 2025
this book was interesting and I can't wait to read the printed book version of the book for no reading anything from this author before until this book I enjoyed the book
I recommend this book 📙 and want to read this book in print so I can review it
I recommend this book 📙 and want to read this book in print so I can review it
August 1, 2025
It gives *the selection* vibessss
June 16, 2025
What a unique and fantastic story. A reality TV show where the actors are living like it’s the 14th century in a real castle. I loved the characters, the plot twists were fab and the mystery elements were so fun.
June 17, 2025
This a fun YA read! The plot was engaging full of intriguing plot twists and a slight mystery. I love history and enjoyed the medieval reality show setting. There was fantastic attention to detail that made the story come alive. Stella was a fun character. She was determined and grew so much! The romance was kisses only. I hope this isn’t the last that we see these characters! I would love to read Gwen’s story. This entertaining read is perfect for those who forbidden romance, forced proximity, and secret identities!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
June 17, 2025
I absolutely adore Stella's intense, fiery, sweet, caring, loving, mysterious happily ever after!!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews