Grenville University is the most prestigious in all of Britain, and only those with families of the elite and most powerful stand any chance of attending.
Until now, when a new scholarship presents a golden opportunity for one Louisa Garrick.
Louisa believes delving into her studies and making nice with Grenville’s affluent students will bring her one step closer to achieving her goals—including getting her father out of prison.
But when the heir to the University, Benjamin Grenville, offers her a unique proposal, she drifts from her path. The chain of events that follow will change the way Louisa sees the world forever as she stumbles upon a secret that threatens the entire Grenville dynasty.
Will she keep it to herself … or use it to her advantage to make all her wishes come true?
B. Green is a horromance author from the UK, that haunts the genre boundaries of Dark Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. Red Wine and Dark Chocolate are must haves when reading one of her books.
Holy Freakin Grenville!! What an absolutely breathtaking and mindblowing read!! This emotional rollercoaster of a story has everything from epic plot and story to fascinating characters and history! Bottles up to B Green because Start to finish I could not put this finely woven masterpiece down! I was hooked hard from the very first word and it just kept getting better.. then when I thought it couldn’t possibly get any better or be any more engaging.. IT DOES! The jaw dropping twist and turns you didn’t see coming leave you in such a speechless whiplash you cannot help but crave more! Brava and Thank You for this remarkable adventure into the phenomenal world of Grenville!
I was sucked into a world of dark academia that had me craving allll the books! The twists and turns kept me drawn in and saying OMGGGGG!!!!! The character and world building was A+ I truly felt like I was there following close behind our FMC like a gawking shadow. I can not wait for book two!!!!
Wow! I don’t even know where to start!! This is a must read for 2024! This book is absolutely amazing!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️.5. Once you start you will not be able to stop! From the first page you are sucked into the world of Grenville and all of its twist and turns! There is some spice, not an excessive amount, but it is done so well🥵🥵I definitely am not one to go into detail with books (on the fear of spoiling them for others) but when I say this is so well written and the plot was not what I expected i can’t urge everyone enough to go preorder your copy and enjoy the journey it takes you on! It’s one hell of a ride and I’m so ready for more!
Yall, I could NOT put this down.. the story literally pulled me in. I read it in one sitting. The character and world building are chefs kiss!! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the dark, mysterious and powerful!
The House of Grenville is a captivating story that deserves a solid five-star rating. The protagonist, Louisa, comes from a drug lord family but is determined to improve their lives by attending college. However, her college experience takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that the institution is not what she had imagined.
One of the highlights of the book is Louisa's relationship with Mr. Grenville, the enigmatic bad boy whose life story, surprises everyone. The author skillfully weaves together a tale of romance and intrigue, keeping readers hooked until the very end.
The cliffhanger ending leaves readers with countless questions, but it only serves to heighten the anticipation for the next installment. I can't wait to see what B. Green has in store for us next. Overall, "The House of Grenville" is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and engaging story.
I give this book a 10/10 recommendation and eagerly await the next book from this talented author.
Wow! Big wow! I could not have asked for a better book. It kept me turning the pages and not wanting to put it down. Very easy read and everything flowed! There’s a twist in the middle that I definitely didn’t see coming and she leaves us with such a cliffhanger I’m annoyed! I need the second book immediately.
Edit- second book was combined into the first! It ended great! Super worth the read!!
The House of Grenville is a dark academia paranormal romance brimming with mystery, secret societies, and the gritty underworld of Birmingham.
The story follows Louisa Garrick, the eldest daughter of Birmingham’s “King Pin.” Desperate to free her father from prison and reunite her family, Louisa accepts a scholarship to Britain’s most prestigious university, hoping to connect with its elite students and faculty to make this possible. But when Benjamin Grenville, the brooding heir to Grenville University, makes her a life-changing proposal, she’s drawn into a web of secrets that could shatter the powerful Grenville dynasty.
The book is divided into two parts. Part one, set at Grenville University, is utterly gripping - I devoured it in one evening. However, part two lacked the same intensity, and the ending felt slightly unfulfilling, though it leaves room for a potential sequel. The university’s setting is lavish and atmospheric, but the frequent mentions of “Birmingham” without specific landmarks made the location feel less authentic, especially as someone from the city myself.
Louisa is a relatable and compelling protagonist. Her love of books and human vulnerability, especially in the face of trauma, make her decisions feel authentic, even when questionable. Her friendship with Bella and Cora is also a highlight of this book!
Benjamin Grenville? Pure perfection. A morally grey, brooding man who respects boundaries and consent? Sign me up! The stark contrast between Benjamin and his brother Zach added depth, though Zach’s introduction as a romantic interest could’ve been stronger. Also, major kudos to B. Green for writing a dark romance with explicit consent - such a welcome and needed shift in the genre.
If you’re a fan of dark romance with a paranormal edge or love The Vampire Diaries, this book will be right up your alley. Just be mindful of the trigger warnings, as it delves into heavy themes like drug abuse, SA, rape, and murder.
Drug lord/mafia meets high society with insane twists and turns!
Oh.My.God! This book sucked me in and I was mad I had to adult and do life over devouring this book in one sitting! I instantly loved Louisa - and her character development was the best, and her sass and determination created such a vibe! Benjamin stole my heart - I can’t help I’m a softy for a bad boy! That slow burn got me so bad - I was devouring pages just hoping I’d reach peak flame 😜 But that twist - I was NOT expecting any of them but particularly the main one! I would 10/10 recommend this book and will do so! B.Green earned every damn one of the 5 stars and to say I’m begging for the 2nd book is an understatement
AMAZING!!! I AM HOOKED!!! The plot ensnared me from the beginning, but it was the characters that kept me reading. I have so many questions and can't wait for more in the series. 1. Where did Louisa learn to fight? 2. What is this thing she refers to as caged within her? 3. What is the history between Louisa and Oscar? He says she was always his. 4. Who did she kill @ 16 and why? 5. What are Benjamin's powers?
So many more question. Amazing book to read and I strongly recommend it.
This wasn't my typical read. In the beginning, I wasn't entirely sure where the story was going and if it was for me. Then everything took a massive turn around the halfway point, and I was hooked!
I think this is a great introduction into the horror romance category for newer readers (like me), while still maintaining the dark, atmospheric mystery of a horror novel for lovers of the base genre.
I'll be keeping an eye out for the sequel as I'm very curious what will happen next.
“Are you all stupid enough to touch what is mine?” The House of Grenville is just a jaw dropping page turner with spicy love all with a heart burning story. It is a beautifully written Dark Academia genre that masterfully built its characters in perfect standing. The enemies to lovers with Louisa and Benjamin becomes a touch her and die romance. But how can a man of such royalty and great power who carries no soul fall for a girl who cusses like a sailor and grew up in little ol’ Birmingham, whose father sold drugs and was rotting in prison after claiming he had such great street power just to leave his son to deal with it all and the troubles he left. Louisa was not about to be like her older brother Frankie, better yet she wasn’t going to be like any of her family. Even though she’d do anything for her father a tragic story falls upon her. Will the curse stick with her no matter how hard she tries to run from her past? Is she the only one that is cursed? This book will leave any good reader wanting more. “Fear is power, and it’s time for the world to be reminded of that.”
I absolutely devoured The House of Grenville in one sitting. It was so easy to immerse myself in this beautifully written dark academia/enemies to lovers story. Twists and turns at every corner, and a cliff hanger that left me wanting so much more! I cannot wait for book 2!
This is a masterclass in romance and horror with immaculate dark academia vibes reminiscent of Ninth House and The Vampire Diaries—but sexier. A must read.
Okay wow, I loved this book b green has done an amazing job writing it if it isn’t on your tbr I would say add it! I could not put this book down as soon as I started it I didn’t want it to end! The turns you don’t see coming! The quote “they say that dreams are a wish that your heart makes�� loved loved loved this and plus the slow burn was just 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 I felt all the emotions through this book! I need the second asap!!
Part two I have no words for part two I love love loved every second of this book it had everything you could want secrets, twists, hidden truths! The drama and the suspense is top tier I would recommend this book to anyone who will listen to me! I am obsessed. Please check your trigger warnings before going in! I have far too many favourite quotes but this one takes the win “I wouldn’t catch you killer, I’d fall with you we both would” AHHHHHHH!!!! I can’t wait to have this gorgeous book on my shelf! Tropes -Revenge -Trauma healing -immortality -revenge -ptsd -why choose -trauma bonding
i really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would! Such an easy read and easy to consume 💞
You can tell that this book is the authors first book however she has definitely done an amazing job. I loved her writing style and her story telling.
The reason why I didn’t rate it higher was because it is only 200 pages and I really wanted it to be longer, so I could get more world building and depth to the characters. I did enjoy the characters but I just needed a little bit more so I can fully connect with them.
I had no idea what this was even about so I definitely into it blind but I definitely was not expecting that twist… I was more shocked than the FMC! Again though because it’s a short book I wanted more build up and more story telling once she kinda pieced things together to reveal this twist to us… but I am interested to see where the author will go with this story and I’m hoping the second book will be longer next time
What a delectable and smouldering, action packed book!
This was exactly what I needed to read, something where the plot kept moving forward, with interesting main characters and a world that's familiar.
I loved Louise and Benji, but Zach definitely took the “touch her and die” trope very literally, and you won't hear me complain!
I do feel like I should mention, there are some clear editing errors. A couple of sentences that's the wrong way around and one paragraph where the chronology is out of order, which at first is confusing until you realise it and just read it again. It happens, but it did not detract from my enjoyment!
If you enjoyed Enigma or Night Shade, check this book out
5 ⭐️ Birmingham Mafia meets High society, a book I never new I needed! It was spicy, the tension, the friendships made, the enemies to lovers.. sooo many good tropes! So many WHAT THE FUCK moments and I was living for it! Louisa is a bad bitch and I love that so much! Ben is an arrogant arsehole, who thinks he owns the joint 🤣🤭 IYKYK! I can’t stand arrogance in real life, but there is something about an MMC being arrogant and the FMC putting him in his place 🤭 So many loose ends and I can’t wait to read the second. Please add this to your tbr, it’s a great read!
The grammatical errors in this book set a poor tone from the beginning. The incorrect use of apostrophes and numerous spelling mistakes were distracting and caused me to lose faith in the author.
That said, the storyline had potential; however, the writing felt clumsy, and the pacing was rushed. I didn’t feel a real connection to the characters and felt the book could have been executed far better.
This book gets 5 stars from me. Also I was reading some reviews and this edition is the newest one that I read. So not sure as I didn't see some of the negatives that others were talking about.
I started it late last night and had to stay up to finish it.... I was going to start it and then finish it the next day... NOPE NOPE NOPE! That did not happened.. Stayed up till 1:30 am reading this book. Thankfully my family was asleep because some of the one sided conversation/commentary I was having, they would have wanted to know if I was alright...... Nope, the ending. Left me wanting more. Now I sit here having to wait on book 2..... all sad..... but it's ok, I have faith I will get book 2 soon enough.
So we have our MFC Louise and our MMC Ben. And of course our MFC was given an opportunity to attend the most prestigious school where she is instantly bullied by our MMC. Thankfully she is suspicious and keeps her guard up for most of the time. She is a stabby, runaway MFC that is definitely in flight mode. As the story progresses, the head mistress in the school wants to use our MFC. The MFC brother Frankie gets her pulled into some crap. She overhears a conversation with MMC and his father.... Which kinda gets explained but I know there is more there..... A spicy scene or 2 later and we know our girl has fallen for our MMC. As the story progresses, you learn more into the history of their families. You learn that the MFC will do anything for her family, including putting herself in a situation she shouldn't have. I was sad with the last chapter as it's from Ben's POV. And then I was like...... UMMMMM no this can't be it. This can't be the end....
So some of my commentary consisted of "ummm ma'am, you did it again.. You brought me right back to my feelings from Circus of Dreams", "ummm how am I going to fall asleep now", "what a cruel way for me to end my night and I did it to myself". And of course I'm in the author's discord channel and I had to make a comment where I said "Ummmmmm you can't end it like that. I mean you can.... And you did. But wtf. Like the ending of city of nightmares left me dead..... this one left me saying wtf....." So yeah, that's where I'm at this morning still feeling like I need to make up a HEA in my head to finish this story until the second book comes out.....
Bravo B Green, you did it again! I absolutely love your books and can't wait to read book 2. Thank you again for working with me.
“Rule number one, never shy away from gifts. Rule number two, never apologize for anything. You’re a Grenville girl now, Grenville girls don’t apologize. Rule number three, never run away from the opportunity to get the upper hand.”
Louisa Garrick: this year’s scholarship student with a sharp mind and an unusual background. Her father, who owned several businesses in Birmingham, was imprisoned, leaving the family bankrupt. Her mother taught her the ins and outs of money laundering before their downfall.
Benjamin Grenville: the university heir, known for his family’s secrecy and minimal media presence. He’s younger than most students & stays out of the public eye.
Grenville is all about excess, pushing luxury to its limits and making wealth feel overwhelming. The money here is nothing compared to what some of these families have, and to survive, you need to be sharp and tough. It’s not just about being rich or poor; there’s a divide between “Old Money” and “New Money.” That’s why the wings exist—Silver and Gold for the old money, Emerald and Ruby for the new. It’s all about keeping the social order intact and making sure the circles stay the same.
HOUSE OF GRENVILLE is an engaging story packed with ambition, secrets, and tough choices. Things take an unexpected twist when Benjamin Grenville, the charming heir to the university, offers her a deal that changes everything. The story takes readers on a wild ride as Louisa navigates the world of privilege, corruption and hidden truths. The stakes get higher when she uncovers a secret that could tear the powerful Grenville family apart. Louisa’s internal struggle—whether to stay silent or use what she knows for leverage—makes for an intriguing read. House of Grenville is perfect for anyone who loves a mix of drama, suspense, and complex characters in a world where power is everything.
A big thanks to B. Green for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
This book had me gasping🌶️🌶️💓 (specially the ending) First of all this book was provided to me as an ARC, I’ve never read anything from this author but since reading the blurb of this book, I didn’t think twice.
Before starting the read, I was able to speak with the author since I manage to see that there was a publication already for this “book” on early April of this year, and she was so lovely to explain me that actually, this is a “re-release”, with 2 important things, New Cover (which btw is astonishingly captivating♥️) and the second book included, all in one.
And let me tell you something, thank God, I was able to get my hands on this book now, because I would’ve go crazy if I did not have the other part since the book ends in a very serious cliffhanger.
Review/Impressions✨: 4.5⭐️
Since I read the dedication passage and it was a reference to something related to one of my favorite TV Shows of all time “The Vampire Diaries”, I knew I was going to like this book. ( Go read a sample so you can understand what I’m saying, you’ll definitely would want to buy it ASAP)
The story was new, original, the mixture of two different worlds between Mafia World and The Inmortal beings, was something I did not expected but put a huge and amazing twist to the story. Love how Louisa is a fierce, living up to her families reputation and of course the Grenville Brothers…Oh my God. I’m a sucker for protective male characters that will kill LITERALLY on the spot for “their” woman in this case ✨
Even though at the beginning might seem a little slow and also would’ve love more depth into Frankie and Cora’s relationship since I felt it happened so fast but Really engaging, and a fresh narrative that will captivate you… Looking forward for more from Mrs. Green✨
Hmm if you have ever been forced fed that “you will never become anything , because you are nothing without a falice between your thighs” Well enter Louisa the no shit, no bull , don’t even look at me with a squint aura around her . Growing up in a difficult family situation is putting it mildly. Morphing your own inner secret identity, your true self for any resemblance of normality and something to hold on to well…… when what looks likes an escape turns out to be one lesson she will never ever forget! Enter benji and zach never judge a book by its cover and just how feral these two brothers can be when their own interests are threatened with Louisa’s. Private high society residential collage is an eye opening experience for Louisa this rule book is very much complete polar opposite of the one she plays by. Kidnapped and brutalised Louisa has to deep into herself and pull herself back from the deliciousness that the black expense is offering . New alliances are made but will this be for better or for worse?
The book is gripping a little bit wordy fluff in some parts but these threads are soon made important to the fluid story telling . Major trigger warnings for Kidnapping Forced sexual work Abuse Drug addiction Abuse Mental Complex post traumatic stress disorder
So as much as this story maybe up your ally .please please please look after your mental health create a safe space/environment that during and once finished you are able to seek comfort and ground yourself
Spice Hmm spice I would give 2.5 chillies
Would I read it again ? Yes I feel second time round I would and could pick up things I did not see . I cannot wait for 2 however !!!!!!!
In “House of Grenville”. Green unveils a gripping narrative that transcends conventional storytelling. Louisa Garrick's journey from the shadows of her drug lord father's empire to the esteemed halls of Grenville University is nothing short of mesmerizing. Green masterfully weaves together themes of class warfare, social injustice, and the seductive allure of power, creating a tapestry of intrigue that captivates from the first page to the last.
At the heart of the story lies Louisa's internal struggle, torn between the pursuit of justice and the allure of forbidden love. As she unravels the dark secrets lurking within Grenville's walls, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, unsure of whom to trust and what lies ahead. The tension builds with each page turn, culminating in a plot twist that will leave readers reeling long after the book is finished.
Green's prose is nothing short of exquisite, effortlessly drawing readers into a world brimming with complexity and nuance. The characters leap off the page, their flaws and vulnerabilities adding depth to an already rich tapestry. From the brooding atmosphere of Grenville University to the palpable chemistry between the protagonists, every detail is meticulously crafted to perfection.
As a fan of dark academia, mafia intrigue, and slow-burn romance, “The House of Grenville” exceeded all expectations. It's a testament to Green's talent as a storyteller that the book effortlessly blends these tropes into a seamless narrative that feels both fresh and familiar. I eagerly await the next installment in this captivating series, eager to once again lose myself in Green's spellbinding world.
Having read House of Grenville when it was first released in 2024, I was thrilled to revisit this upgraded version, and I must say, I enjoyed it even more the second time around!
The story is set within the prestigious Grenville University, the crown jewel of Britain's elite educational institutions, where admission is a privilege reserved for the powerful and well-connected. Enter Louisa Garrick, a determined scholarship recipient who views this as her golden opportunity to break into the upper echelons of society. Louisa's ambition and strategy center around her studies and networking with the affluent students who populate Grenville.
However, her plan takes an unexpected turn when Benjamin Grenville, the heir to the university, presents her with a unique proposal. This encounter leads Louisa down a path of intrigue and discovery that alters her worldview forever as she uncovers a secret that threatens the very foundation of the Grenville dynasty.
One aspect of the book that I particularly adored is the spice woven throughout the narrative. The enemies-to-lovers trope is employed brilliantly, and the chemistry between Louisa and Benjamin is palpable and electrifying. The dynamic adds a thrilling layer to the story, making it hard to put down.
With its blend of ambition, romance, and underlying secrets, House of Grenville is a captivating read that leaves you eager for more. I can hardly wait to dive into the second installment, which is already ready and waiting on my shelf. This series is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a fresh twist on the paranormal trope intertwined with an engaging blossoming love story and high-stakes drama. Highly recommended!
I’m so torn on how I feel. From what I’ve gathered this is the author’s first book and it reads that way. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but it definitely played a part in my rating as well as the pacing.
I went into this book with no knowledge of the author and with an open mind because I’m always trying to support indie authors and I think that judging too harshly when there’s clear potential is unnecessary. However, I do feel like this story was rushed from beginning to end. This book had potential to be WAY longer with a lot more world building than it had. Especially given how it ended and what we now know. I won’t be giving any major spoilers, but what I will say is the plot twist wasn’t exactly expected and I’m curious to see what the author will do in book two. I’m hoping for a better paced story, with a bit more backstory at the least.
Did I enjoy this? For the most part. Do I recommend this? If you have time on your hands and you want to support an indie author. I didn’t hate this book and can admit I did enjoy it at points, but I really hope the author takes some criticism and slows down.
As always, happy reading book babes 💌
⚠️⚠️⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️⚠️⚠️
ONLY KEEP READING IF YOU WANT PLOT TWIST SPOILERS..
For some reason this book reminded me a bit of the movies “The Coven” and “The Invitation” if that does anything to peak your interest.
The way this book sucked me in and didn’t let go 😭. I had so much fun reading this book, I loved the world and I have so many questions that I need answers to 😭.
I’m very excited to see the relationship between Ben, Zach and Louisa and where this book is going to go. I didn’t know how I felt that about the main characters early on but the more a read the more they grew on me and of course the more questions I had.
I am very excited to learn more about the boys past and how they will help Cora in book 2. Obviously Zach is my fave (I love the psychotic one 😏) I need to see more of his dark side come out. And god I can’t wait to see more spice between the three 🙈.
I would like to see them return to the school but I also want to see the “rule to world” kinda vibe. I can’t lie, both Frankie and Cora really started to irritate me. Poor Louisa went through hell and yes I get the two have their own stuff going on but the girl needs more support! Especially from her own brother!!! Dude really needs to step up.
The way Ben and Zach are ride or dies for Lou is *chefs kiss* but I swear to god if they betray her I will throw my kindle at the wall!!! The UK aspect is something i love!! I love reading books that are set in the same country I’m from, it just makes it so much more fun.
I would love to see more spice in the coming books. The scenes we had were good but I’m greedy and I want more 🙈.
🖤 A Dark Academia Romance 🖤 Forced Proximity 🖤 Mafia meets Upper Class 🖤 Secret Society's Govern England? 🖤 Immortal 🖤 Why Choose 🖤 Keeper of Souls 🖤 Fake Dating
"Tell me every terrible thing you ever did, and let me love you anyway."
This Dark Academia why choose Romance is by far the best one I have read this year, it had me enthralled from the first page all the way to the last, feeling all the emotions and imagining it as though I was there. That's when you know the author is good at what they do 😍
The intoxicating slowburn pull between Benjamin the bully (one of the MMCs) and Lou the FMC is mesmerising 😍 from the moment Lou started at the school, which she did in order to save her family. And then you add Zach ( Ben's brother ) into the mix and 🥵🤤 oh my the heat turns ALL the way up! Little does Lou know the Grenville are hiding some massive secrets 🙊 and not just about themselves 😉 The Secrets That They Keep can change EVERYTHING. So whilst Lou battles through some pretty heavy trauma, will the Secrets she uncovers be ones that destroy everything? Or will they create something incredible?
This absolutely incredible masterpiece releases on November 30th 😍🖤 available for pre-order now!
What an awesome start to a new series! The mantra 'one more chapter' applied until the wee hours of the morning. This was shown as a horror romance - I did not really get horror out of this. However, it is a dark academia with a touch of mafia-esque, paranormal, slow burn romance going on. The banter between Louisa and Benjamin is fun pushing you to keep reading longer. Louisa is like a mafia princess that has lost her crown who obtains a scholarship to an elite university. She soon finds out her entrance is linked to ulterior motives of one of the professors. Benjamin is the broody, grumpy heir of the uni. Both are smart and clash in a poli sci class. Their encounters are intense, yet secretive as both of them have undisclosed pasts they don't want to share. Yet.
The paranormal revelation 2/3 of the way through is intriguing. Some of that story is explained, leaving portions of the background for the second book. The supporting characters (Cora, Bella, Frankie, and Zach) are also written well and make you want to know more about them as much as the main ones. It ends on a cliffhanger and I definitely will be reading the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Graveside Press and am voluntarily leaving a review.