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The House Guest
The last thing Dorian Vanderbilt expected was to find me painting in my crop top when he returned to the mansion he hadn’t inhabited in years. He was understandably surprised I’d turned his living room into an art space. Life is certainly full of surprises, though, but not always in a good way. I learned that lesson when my aunt and the billionaire she married died unexpectedly while traveling.
I’d been living with them, and just like that, my life was turned on its axis. Unsure of what was next, I stayed alone at the barren estate figuring out my next move.
That was when Dorian—the late billionaire’s only son—showed up. I’d never met Dorian Vanderbilt. He’d been living on the other side of the country. But now, he was home, left to pick up the pieces of his father’s legacy. Not only was Dorian devastatingly handsome and mysterious, but he was the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune.
He didn’t seem to like me—at first. We were total opposites. But I was grateful that at least he didn’t kick me out. We stayed out of each other’s way for the most part, save for some late-night kitchen run-ins or unexpected bonding sessions in the home theater. Over time, though, we grew closer. Turned out, our chemistry was pretty combustible.
I was falling in love with him. Until everything I thought I knew turned upside down yet again. And fate left me pining for the one man I’d ever loved.
I’d been living with them, and just like that, my life was turned on its axis. Unsure of what was next, I stayed alone at the barren estate figuring out my next move.
That was when Dorian—the late billionaire’s only son—showed up. I’d never met Dorian Vanderbilt. He’d been living on the other side of the country. But now, he was home, left to pick up the pieces of his father’s legacy. Not only was Dorian devastatingly handsome and mysterious, but he was the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune.
He didn’t seem to like me—at first. We were total opposites. But I was grateful that at least he didn’t kick me out. We stayed out of each other’s way for the most part, save for some late-night kitchen run-ins or unexpected bonding sessions in the home theater. Over time, though, we grew closer. Turned out, our chemistry was pretty combustible.
I was falling in love with him. Until everything I thought I knew turned upside down yet again. And fate left me pining for the one man I’d ever loved.
368 pages, Paperback
Published August 5, 2025
1511 people are currently reading
15541 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Ward
98 books25.8k followersPenelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.
She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.
With millions of books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over forty novels.
In 2014, Penelope’s fourth book, Stepbrother Dearest, became the #1 bestselling independently published Kindle ebook of the year on Amazon.com and was credited with igniting an entirely new subgenre of romance. Her 2016 smash hit RoomHate debuted at #2 on The New York Times Bestseller list. Penelope is an Audie Award Winner and three-time Goodreads Choice Romance of the Year Nominee. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly and Publisher’s Weekly (Starred Review).
Penelope’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.
She can often be found chatting live with her readers in her private Facebook group, Penelope’s Peeps.
She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.
With millions of books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over forty novels.
In 2014, Penelope’s fourth book, Stepbrother Dearest, became the #1 bestselling independently published Kindle ebook of the year on Amazon.com and was credited with igniting an entirely new subgenre of romance. Her 2016 smash hit RoomHate debuted at #2 on The New York Times Bestseller list. Penelope is an Audie Award Winner and three-time Goodreads Choice Romance of the Year Nominee. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly and Publisher’s Weekly (Starred Review).
Penelope’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.
She can often be found chatting live with her readers in her private Facebook group, Penelope’s Peeps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 490 reviews
August 31, 2025
This was a skim-read for me as I wanted to get safety info before deciding to invest my time or not. So I am only referencing safety info for why this is not for me as it is a pet peeve of mine and an instant DNF when after MCs meet and especially fall in love if they are with OP after that for any reason.
Currently reading
September 18, 2025★ LIVE and on LIMITED-TIME RELEASE PRICE! ★
THE HOUSE GUEST is LIVE in ALL Formats! FREE to Read in Kindle Unlimited! Get it while it's $3.99 (U.S. Pricing) for a very limited time. (Moving to $4.99 permanently after release.)
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKNC1B61/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/House-Guest-...
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/House-Guest-Con...
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/House-Guest...
DUET AUDIO: https://www.audible.com/pd/B0FN4WKLZF...
Special Edition Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966867042
Model Paperback: https://amzn.to/4oR8QQe
Special Edition Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4lW44ye
Model Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4lSNVK4
What You Can Expect:
• BILLONAIRE HERO
• ROOMMATES
• TWIST
• SLOW BURN
• ANGSTY
• OPPOSITES ATTRACT
SYNOPSIS:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE contemporary romance…
The last thing Dorian Vanderbilt expected was to find me painting in my crop top when he returned to the mansion he hadn’t inhabited in years.
He was understandably surprised I’d turned his living room into an art space.
Life is certainly full of surprises, though, but not always in a good way.
I learned that lesson when my aunt and the billionaire she married died unexpectedly while traveling.
I’d been living with them, and just like that, my life was turned on its axis.
Unsure of what was next, I stayed alone at the barren estate figuring out my next move.
That was when Dorian—the late billionaire’s only son—showed up.
I’d never met Dorian Vanderbilt. He’d been living on the other side of the country.
But now, he was home, left to pick up the pieces of his father’s legacy.
Not only was Dorian devastatingly handsome and mysterious, but he was the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune.
He didn’t seem to like me—at first. We were total opposites. But I was grateful that at least he didn’t kick me out.
We stayed out of each other’s way for the most part, save for some late-night kitchen run-ins or unexpected bonding sessions in the home theater.
Over time, though, we grew closer. Turned out, our chemistry was pretty combustible.
I was falling in love with him.
Until everything I thought I knew turned upside down yet again.
And fate left me pining for the one man I’d ever loved.
THE HOUSE GUEST is LIVE in ALL Formats! FREE to Read in Kindle Unlimited! Get it while it's $3.99 (U.S. Pricing) for a very limited time. (Moving to $4.99 permanently after release.)
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKNC1B61/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/House-Guest-...
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/House-Guest-Con...
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/House-Guest...
DUET AUDIO: https://www.audible.com/pd/B0FN4WKLZF...
Special Edition Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966867042
Model Paperback: https://amzn.to/4oR8QQe
Special Edition Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4lW44ye
Model Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4lSNVK4
What You Can Expect:
• BILLONAIRE HERO
• ROOMMATES
• TWIST
• SLOW BURN
• ANGSTY
• OPPOSITES ATTRACT
SYNOPSIS:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE contemporary romance…
The last thing Dorian Vanderbilt expected was to find me painting in my crop top when he returned to the mansion he hadn’t inhabited in years.
He was understandably surprised I’d turned his living room into an art space.
Life is certainly full of surprises, though, but not always in a good way.
I learned that lesson when my aunt and the billionaire she married died unexpectedly while traveling.
I’d been living with them, and just like that, my life was turned on its axis.
Unsure of what was next, I stayed alone at the barren estate figuring out my next move.
That was when Dorian—the late billionaire’s only son—showed up.
I’d never met Dorian Vanderbilt. He’d been living on the other side of the country.
But now, he was home, left to pick up the pieces of his father’s legacy.
Not only was Dorian devastatingly handsome and mysterious, but he was the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune.
He didn’t seem to like me—at first. We were total opposites. But I was grateful that at least he didn’t kick me out.
We stayed out of each other’s way for the most part, save for some late-night kitchen run-ins or unexpected bonding sessions in the home theater.
Over time, though, we grew closer. Turned out, our chemistry was pretty combustible.
I was falling in love with him.
Until everything I thought I knew turned upside down yet again.
And fate left me pining for the one man I’d ever loved.
January 3, 2026
This book was one of the most unrealistic and unbelievable books I’ve ever read and not even suspended believe could help me get through. And on top of how phuckingly stupid the storyline was, the characters were also a bunch of morons(except the kid Rosie).
I swear I lost every brain cell to this book…urgh!!!
I swear I lost every brain cell to this book…urgh!!!
August 31, 2025
Hands down, The House Guest by Penelope Ward is one of my top reads of the year. I finished it days ago, and I still can’t stop thinking about this book. This story wrecked me in the best way—full of emotion, angst, and unforgettable characters that burrowed straight into my heart and soul. It’s the kind of book that lingers, making you want to go back and reread just to feel it all over again. Truth be told, I’m completely obsessed.
September 2, 2025
What was that? First half was really good then everything went completely off the rails in the second half. Holy crap. What a weird book. The nickname Rosebud should never be used. Ever. This book also reiterates why I loathe love triangles. Yikes. I was so excited for this one and feel deceived by the blurb.
August 31, 2025
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Dorian Vanderbilt was living a peaceful life in Boston, and then overnight it's thrown into chaos when his father suddenly passes away. Now he's the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune, and needs to return home to California to handle his father's estate, and run his tech company. He hasn't been to his childhood home in Orion Coast in two years, but assumes not much has changed. Then he encounters a stranger he believes to be an intruder. Turns out she's the niece of his late father's wife, and she's lived there for several months. She's a mystery to him, and he questions her intentions before he gets to know her. Then they bond over their shared loss, and seem to understand each other. She makes him smile, and he looks forward to the moments they spend together. He's tried to resist her, but she becomes an unexpected light in a dark time, and soon lines are crossed as real feelings develop.
Primrose Gallagher feels alone after the loss of her mother. Then her aunt and her husband invite her to move in to their lavish mansion off the Pacific Coast. She's attending school, and following her dreams of being an artist when they have an accident while traveling. Now she has no family left, and her future is up in the air. She's alone, and trying to figure out what to do with her life when she gets an unexpected visitor. The late billionaire's bachelor son has arrived home to claim his legacy. She's worried she will have to leave, but he lets her stay. Now she has a new roommate that is unbelievably attractive. As they become friends, they share a connection she can't deny. She's never felt this way, but what's between them is uncertain and complicated. She wanted to be with him, but can she trust him, or will she end up with a broken heart?
The House Guest by Penelope Ward is a standalone, slow burn, billionaire, forbidden, roommates, friends to lovers romance with emotion, angst, passion, sizzling chemistry, and all the swoon. Opposites attract in this captivating story full of twists and turns, unbreakable connections and beautiful love. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKNC1B61/...
(ARC provided by author)
Dorian Vanderbilt was living a peaceful life in Boston, and then overnight it's thrown into chaos when his father suddenly passes away. Now he's the sole heir to the Vanderbilt fortune, and needs to return home to California to handle his father's estate, and run his tech company. He hasn't been to his childhood home in Orion Coast in two years, but assumes not much has changed. Then he encounters a stranger he believes to be an intruder. Turns out she's the niece of his late father's wife, and she's lived there for several months. She's a mystery to him, and he questions her intentions before he gets to know her. Then they bond over their shared loss, and seem to understand each other. She makes him smile, and he looks forward to the moments they spend together. He's tried to resist her, but she becomes an unexpected light in a dark time, and soon lines are crossed as real feelings develop.
Primrose Gallagher feels alone after the loss of her mother. Then her aunt and her husband invite her to move in to their lavish mansion off the Pacific Coast. She's attending school, and following her dreams of being an artist when they have an accident while traveling. Now she has no family left, and her future is up in the air. She's alone, and trying to figure out what to do with her life when she gets an unexpected visitor. The late billionaire's bachelor son has arrived home to claim his legacy. She's worried she will have to leave, but he lets her stay. Now she has a new roommate that is unbelievably attractive. As they become friends, they share a connection she can't deny. She's never felt this way, but what's between them is uncertain and complicated. She wanted to be with him, but can she trust him, or will she end up with a broken heart?
The House Guest by Penelope Ward is a standalone, slow burn, billionaire, forbidden, roommates, friends to lovers romance with emotion, angst, passion, sizzling chemistry, and all the swoon. Opposites attract in this captivating story full of twists and turns, unbreakable connections and beautiful love. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKNC1B61/...
September 3, 2025
AI
I think this was AI Penelope Ward. I had to stop 70% percent in because it never got better. The conversations were robotic as well as the characters. Truly a bad read.
I think this was AI Penelope Ward. I had to stop 70% percent in because it never got better. The conversations were robotic as well as the characters. Truly a bad read.
September 9, 2025
Just finished The House Guest by Penelope Ward on audio and WOW. Savannah Peachwood + Teddy Hamilton = absolute perfection. Their duet narration? The only thing better than hearing them individually. 😍
Primrose and Dorian’s story is full of surprises (and that’s rare in romance!). They’re thrown together as unexpected roommates, not by choice, and what unfolds is angsty, twisty, emotional, and completely addictive. This book touches on loss, grief, and healing, but also love, risk taking, and the magic of finding someone who’s your opposite but just fits.
I couldn’t stop listening—it’s one of those audiobooks you binge in a blur because you have to know what happens next. Definitely recommend going in as blind as possible for maximum impact.
🎧 Fast, emotional, twisty, and SO good.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⸻
✨Tropes
🌀 Twist
💔 Angsty
🔥 Slow Burn
💸 Billionaire
🏡 Roommates
🚪 Forced Proximity
⚡ Opposites Attract
Primrose and Dorian’s story is full of surprises (and that’s rare in romance!). They’re thrown together as unexpected roommates, not by choice, and what unfolds is angsty, twisty, emotional, and completely addictive. This book touches on loss, grief, and healing, but also love, risk taking, and the magic of finding someone who’s your opposite but just fits.
I couldn’t stop listening—it’s one of those audiobooks you binge in a blur because you have to know what happens next. Definitely recommend going in as blind as possible for maximum impact.
🎧 Fast, emotional, twisty, and SO good.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⸻
✨Tropes
🌀 Twist
💔 Angsty
🔥 Slow Burn
💸 Billionaire
🏡 Roommates
🚪 Forced Proximity
⚡ Opposites Attract
October 4, 2025
Inconsistent
This love story started out fine, but really dragged from each of the main characters at separate times breaking up with the other. What was worse is that they would get jealous as each party moved on.
The writing was good. The characters were well done. Unfortunately, this was just an excessively long soap opera with mild spice. Three stars is the best I could drag out for it.
This love story started out fine, but really dragged from each of the main characters at separate times breaking up with the other. What was worse is that they would get jealous as each party moved on.
The writing was good. The characters were well done. Unfortunately, this was just an excessively long soap opera with mild spice. Three stars is the best I could drag out for it.
September 28, 2025
Read it in one go, so there’s that.
It was easy to keep reading, as it happends with all Mrs Ward’s books, but the last half was… complicated. It was all very civil which was as unrealistic as it comes and I felt uneasy with the whole situation.
Overall it wasn’t bad, but it felt too easy and too complicated at the same time.
It was easy to keep reading, as it happends with all Mrs Ward’s books, but the last half was… complicated. It was all very civil which was as unrealistic as it comes and I felt uneasy with the whole situation.
Overall it wasn’t bad, but it felt too easy and too complicated at the same time.
September 4, 2025
Couldn’t even get past chapter 3. The writing is atrocious.
September 5, 2025
2.5 💫💫
The first half was good, but from there, it went downhill 😕
I love her books, but this one didn't work for me..
The first half was good, but from there, it went downhill 😕
I love her books, but this one didn't work for me..
August 29, 2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual (Mostly female)
Rating:
4.25 Stars
A tragedy turned Primrose Gallagher's life upside down. Living in a luxurious mansion and immersing herself in art school helped her cope. But her peace was quickly shattered when the rightful owner, Dorian Vanderbilt, came back unexpectedly, threatening to upend both of their worlds.
Dorian, a reluctant heir, was under tremendous pressure, but he did his best to manage it. Primrose had vulnerabilities that prevented her from living a fulfilling life, yet she took chances to change the circumstances. Together, they had good chemistry that propelled the story.
This book started light and sexy, then became heavier and angsty. Though at times I was angry with how the characters handled the situations, I found myself invested in their journey.
The House Guest is a story of following one's heart. It would appeal to readers who enjoy angsty contemporary romance.
🔸️⚜️🔸️. . . (F)BR with Loyda . . .🔸️⚜️🔸️
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
For graphics, trailers & author services visit Warhawke Design Studio.
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual (Mostly female)
Rating:
4.25 StarsA tragedy turned Primrose Gallagher's life upside down. Living in a luxurious mansion and immersing herself in art school helped her cope. But her peace was quickly shattered when the rightful owner, Dorian Vanderbilt, came back unexpectedly, threatening to upend both of their worlds.
Dorian, a reluctant heir, was under tremendous pressure, but he did his best to manage it. Primrose had vulnerabilities that prevented her from living a fulfilling life, yet she took chances to change the circumstances. Together, they had good chemistry that propelled the story.
This book started light and sexy, then became heavier and angsty. Though at times I was angry with how the characters handled the situations, I found myself invested in their journey.
The House Guest is a story of following one's heart. It would appeal to readers who enjoy angsty contemporary romance.
🔸️⚜️🔸️. . . (F)BR with Loyda . . .🔸️⚜️🔸️
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
For graphics, trailers & author services visit Warhawke Design Studio.
August 29, 2025
Overall, I really enjoyed this audiobook, and I listened to it in two days! I don't want to reveal the tropes because a few of them are quite spoilery for readers.
When I consider the story itself, I enjoyed it. It's a Penelope Ward signature story, so if you like her books, it's highly probable that you will like this! Penelope never fails to have me anxious during her books. She excels at the "caught snooping" moment, and a few moments in this particular book gave me those same feelings. I had to stop listening to the audiobook on three different occasions in the second half because I wasn't ready for the ball to drop. Penelope drove the angst up in this book, and our characters had to make hard decisions that weren't easy. I admired how she handled the topics with care.
As far as the narration goes, the audiobook is narrated in duet by Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood, so duet-style narration lovers, this is up your alley! I actually might have enjoyed it a little more had I not done the audiobook. Teddy was perfectly cast and nailed all of his parts, but for me, a different narrator would have been better for the heroine. Savannah's narration for side characters sometimes felt inaccurate, especially when narrating one particular female side character. I felt like Savannah's performance made the character sound like a brat, when in reality, the character wasn't a brat at all. She had valid concerns, and I think her narration went a little over the top at times.
Despite my personal issue with the performance by one of the narrators, not all readers are going to feel the same way, so please give this book a try, especially if you like angst and stories that can deliver it in under 400 pages!
I had the pleasure of receiving this ALC thanks to Must Love Audio and Penelope Ward. All thoughts written are my own.
When I consider the story itself, I enjoyed it. It's a Penelope Ward signature story, so if you like her books, it's highly probable that you will like this! Penelope never fails to have me anxious during her books. She excels at the "caught snooping" moment, and a few moments in this particular book gave me those same feelings. I had to stop listening to the audiobook on three different occasions in the second half because I wasn't ready for the ball to drop. Penelope drove the angst up in this book, and our characters had to make hard decisions that weren't easy. I admired how she handled the topics with care.
As far as the narration goes, the audiobook is narrated in duet by Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood, so duet-style narration lovers, this is up your alley! I actually might have enjoyed it a little more had I not done the audiobook. Teddy was perfectly cast and nailed all of his parts, but for me, a different narrator would have been better for the heroine. Savannah's narration for side characters sometimes felt inaccurate, especially when narrating one particular female side character. I felt like Savannah's performance made the character sound like a brat, when in reality, the character wasn't a brat at all. She had valid concerns, and I think her narration went a little over the top at times.
Despite my personal issue with the performance by one of the narrators, not all readers are going to feel the same way, so please give this book a try, especially if you like angst and stories that can deliver it in under 400 pages!
I had the pleasure of receiving this ALC thanks to Must Love Audio and Penelope Ward. All thoughts written are my own.
October 23, 2025
✷alc review✷
♡contemporary romance
♡forced proximity
♡room-mates
♡billionaire
♡strangers to lovers to strangers to second chance
♡drama + angst
the audiobook is excellent!!! 5/5!!!
the house guest is told from mainly primrose's pov so the duet style narration added soo much emotion to the story!! teddy hamilton + savannah peachwood did an amazing job. i highly recommend the audiobook
the house guest read like a novella, it was very fast paced. despite that, i loved the romantic build up (although a bit faster than i typically enjoy but the audiobook is only 8 hours long)
primrose×dorian had great chemistry and their connection was really sweet. from him baking + cooking for her, to their shared love of movies + directors and the tension!!!! ahhhh. i love a good "fuck it" moment and when dorian gave in, i was screaming 🦅
but the pacing was... off. there were weird massive time jumps and more telling than showing to try to catch us up on what we missed. i would've preferred more showing us what happened during those times instead.
safety info + things i didn't like:
*possible mild spoilers*
× there is ow and om drama. they both go on dates with others before getting together
× 3rd act breakup at around 50% then 5 year time jump🥴 where she has a child and is engaged to someone else. so primrose does emotionally cheat on her fiance with the mmc, dorian.
thank you so much @mustloveaudio + penelope ward for an alc
♡contemporary romance
♡forced proximity
♡room-mates
♡billionaire
♡strangers to lovers to strangers to second chance
♡drama + angst
the audiobook is excellent!!! 5/5!!!
the house guest is told from mainly primrose's pov so the duet style narration added soo much emotion to the story!! teddy hamilton + savannah peachwood did an amazing job. i highly recommend the audiobook
the house guest read like a novella, it was very fast paced. despite that, i loved the romantic build up (although a bit faster than i typically enjoy but the audiobook is only 8 hours long)
primrose×dorian had great chemistry and their connection was really sweet. from him baking + cooking for her, to their shared love of movies + directors and the tension!!!! ahhhh. i love a good "fuck it" moment and when dorian gave in, i was screaming 🦅
but the pacing was... off. there were weird massive time jumps and more telling than showing to try to catch us up on what we missed. i would've preferred more showing us what happened during those times instead.
safety info + things i didn't like:
*possible mild spoilers*
× there is ow and om drama. they both go on dates with others before getting together
× 3rd act breakup at around 50% then 5 year time jump🥴 where she has a child and is engaged to someone else. so primrose does emotionally cheat on her fiance with the mmc, dorian.
thank you so much @mustloveaudio + penelope ward for an alc
September 2, 2025
That was messy, emotional, and dramatic in all the ways Penelope Ward loves to write. And yes, she definitely knows how to drag emotions out of a reader. I usually live for that kind of angst - when you’re basically drowning in the MCs’ feelings. But this one? It lost me.
Primrose and Dorian’s relationship worked for maybe the first 40% of the book. Then came the time jump and the so-called “twist,” and I just sat there like… really? Why couldn’t he just tell her the truth in the first place? She literally would’ve gone with him. Who wouldn’t want to hide out with a hot man in Greece? That’s not a punishment, that’s a vacation. At least he should’ve given her a choice.
And then there’s the OW/OM angle. I will forever hate even a hint of it - whether it’s drama with others, moving on, or those long years apart. Nope. Not for me. While it wasn’t heavy-handed here, it was still there, and it pulled me out of the story. In my little pink-glasses world, the heroes stay celibate and miserable until they finally reunite. Anything else just feels like cheating-lite.
Primrose and Dorian’s relationship worked for maybe the first 40% of the book. Then came the time jump and the so-called “twist,” and I just sat there like… really? Why couldn’t he just tell her the truth in the first place? She literally would’ve gone with him. Who wouldn’t want to hide out with a hot man in Greece? That’s not a punishment, that’s a vacation. At least he should’ve given her a choice.
And then there’s the OW/OM angle. I will forever hate even a hint of it - whether it’s drama with others, moving on, or those long years apart. Nope. Not for me. While it wasn’t heavy-handed here, it was still there, and it pulled me out of the story. In my little pink-glasses world, the heroes stay celibate and miserable until they finally reunite. Anything else just feels like cheating-lite.
September 7, 2025
Uggghhhh
Seriously! That was my last Penelope Ward or Vi Keeland book. It's like I'm addicted to disappointment or something. Each one I read, sucks more than the last. They're just not realistic anymore. The characters are like bad actors in a low budget movie.
Seriously! That was my last Penelope Ward or Vi Keeland book. It's like I'm addicted to disappointment or something. Each one I read, sucks more than the last. They're just not realistic anymore. The characters are like bad actors in a low budget movie.
September 14, 2025
3.5 ⭐️'s
I always like PW's books and this one was no exception. Dorian and Primrose were really sweet together and I loved all the drama in Part Two.
However, I felt the writing was not as smooth as it usually is (especially the conversations) and it took me out of the story from time to time. I don't why it did and maybe it was just me but it made it a lot less enjoyable.
I always like PW's books and this one was no exception. Dorian and Primrose were really sweet together and I loved all the drama in Part Two.
However, I felt the writing was not as smooth as it usually is (especially the conversations) and it took me out of the story from time to time. I don't why it did and maybe it was just me but it made it a lot less enjoyable.
September 9, 2025
Oh boy was this one I tried to really get through because I didn’t want to DNF it. 😬
The only reason why I even gave it a 2 star was because the first 30% of the book was really good. Then everything went to 💩. I’m not one to be so negative when it comes to books but boy was this a no for me.
Mild spoilers ahead ‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
Before I share my opinion I do need to address that everyone has different tastes when reading. It’s okay for us to not like what others enjoy. THESE ARE MY THOUGHTS AND MY OPINIONS.‼️
Okay now that’s out the way, I have to say I’m all for second chances but this was beyond fucked up. It kept going back and forth. One moment the main characters are happy and in love then one goes and fks it up. This triangle just kept continuing, the worst part? they were horrible to their partners. It was a back and forth emotional cheating, and that’s one of my pet peeves in any book. Casey didn’t deserve to be treated like that just because the FMC was childish and confused, sneaking off to “talk” I mean wtf?! 🤬 Then you have Dorian who has Liv and she helped him and all it took was one look for him to tell her bye Bishh. How fkd up are these characters?? I mean in the end they did deserve each other. then you see the aftermath and how everyone was okay with it and moved on happily ever after. In all sense I just felt bad for Rosie to deal with this kind of fucked up dynamic of a relationship. Yeah not my cup to tea.
The only reason why I even gave it a 2 star was because the first 30% of the book was really good. Then everything went to 💩. I’m not one to be so negative when it comes to books but boy was this a no for me.
Mild spoilers ahead ‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
Before I share my opinion I do need to address that everyone has different tastes when reading. It’s okay for us to not like what others enjoy. THESE ARE MY THOUGHTS AND MY OPINIONS.‼️
Okay now that’s out the way, I have to say I’m all for second chances but this was beyond fucked up. It kept going back and forth. One moment the main characters are happy and in love then one goes and fks it up. This triangle just kept continuing, the worst part? they were horrible to their partners. It was a back and forth emotional cheating, and that’s one of my pet peeves in any book. Casey didn’t deserve to be treated like that just because the FMC was childish and confused, sneaking off to “talk” I mean wtf?! 🤬 Then you have Dorian who has Liv and she helped him and all it took was one look for him to tell her bye Bishh. How fkd up are these characters?? I mean in the end they did deserve each other. then you see the aftermath and how everyone was okay with it and moved on happily ever after. In all sense I just felt bad for Rosie to deal with this kind of fucked up dynamic of a relationship. Yeah not my cup to tea.
August 26, 2025
4.5 Stars ⭐️ Primrose was living with her aunt and latest husband when they unexpectedly passed away. Dorian Vanderbilt’s dad and his wife died, and he inherited a large estate where Primrose was staying. They make a deal that would let her stay, and they fall deeply in love with each other. However, something happened that cause Dorian to break up with her. Primrose left California. There are a twists that I wasn’t expecting. I loved Primrose and Dorian. Both are well written characters with depth and faults. The romance was well paced, romantic and spicy. I love that they bonded over communicating with each other, and learned each other to a soul deep level. I love the angst and drama within the book. The audiobook is perfectly narrated in duet style by Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
This story follows Primrose and Dorian. Primrose moves in with her aunt and her aunt’s billionaire husband, who offers her a place to stay in their mansion, conveniently close to where she will enroll in art school. A few months into her stay, her aunt passes away, leaving Primrose alone once again with nowhere to go.
One night, while she is painting, the billionaire’s son who now owns the mansion and his father’s legacy arrives earlier than expected to take care of business. Will he kick her out, or will he let her stay?
If you know me, you know I love Penelope Ward’s books. She always includes a twist or a time jump and captivates me with her writing. The audiobooks are fantastic too, with perfectly cast narrators who bring the characters to life. With this one, I highly recommend the audiobook format.
Starting with Primrose she’s driven, creative, and falls hard, but she runs when things get too real. I loved her strength, and the way she’s been raising her beautiful daughter. She fell for a man who wanted her but ended up breaking her heart. Then we have Dorian: handsome, wealthy, and intelligent, but struggling with commitment. Still, with Primrose, things were different. She was someone he could talk to, relate to, and find joy with at the end of a tough day. I loved their chemistry and was so glad it all worked out in the end. I’m still in shock that she had an amicable discussion with her daughter’s father I was dreading the worst.
This was a character-driven storyline with a twist that makes you root for them. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of Penelope Ward’s work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length:
Narrators: Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Roommates, Close Proximity, FMC Artist, Jealousy, Tension, Chemistry, Family Drama, 5 Year Time Jump, Full Circle Moment and Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
One night, while she is painting, the billionaire’s son who now owns the mansion and his father’s legacy arrives earlier than expected to take care of business. Will he kick her out, or will he let her stay?
If you know me, you know I love Penelope Ward’s books. She always includes a twist or a time jump and captivates me with her writing. The audiobooks are fantastic too, with perfectly cast narrators who bring the characters to life. With this one, I highly recommend the audiobook format.
Starting with Primrose she’s driven, creative, and falls hard, but she runs when things get too real. I loved her strength, and the way she’s been raising her beautiful daughter. She fell for a man who wanted her but ended up breaking her heart. Then we have Dorian: handsome, wealthy, and intelligent, but struggling with commitment. Still, with Primrose, things were different. She was someone he could talk to, relate to, and find joy with at the end of a tough day. I loved their chemistry and was so glad it all worked out in the end. I’m still in shock that she had an amicable discussion with her daughter’s father I was dreading the worst.
This was a character-driven storyline with a twist that makes you root for them. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of Penelope Ward’s work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length:
Narrators: Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Roommates, Close Proximity, FMC Artist, Jealousy, Tension, Chemistry, Family Drama, 5 Year Time Jump, Full Circle Moment and Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
September 4, 2025
If I’d known more about this book I wouldn’t have read it, so it serves me right for not reading honest (or any) reviews.
They “fall in love” within the first 40% of the book, break up suddenly because he says they should, 5 years pass, she finds out he faked his own death (or at least went missing at sea) and within a few days he randomly shows up on her doorstep.
By now she has a kid with another man she’s engaged to so the natural thing to do is meet up with the ex and talk about what could have been because he told her the real story of why they had to break up. (Somebody wanted him dead and she was also a target)
Shortly after that her husband to be breaks up with her and calls off the wedding so she can “figure things out” with her ex and he is extremely okay with all of that.
Sorry but who does that and why was it even necessary? Nobody in a relationship with somebody they truly love, want to marry and already have a kid with is understanding enough to just go with the flow whenever the one that got away shows up.
They “fall in love” within the first 40% of the book, break up suddenly because he says they should, 5 years pass, she finds out he faked his own death (or at least went missing at sea) and within a few days he randomly shows up on her doorstep.
By now she has a kid with another man she’s engaged to so the natural thing to do is meet up with the ex and talk about what could have been because he told her the real story of why they had to break up. (Somebody wanted him dead and she was also a target)
Shortly after that her husband to be breaks up with her and calls off the wedding so she can “figure things out” with her ex and he is extremely okay with all of that.
Sorry but who does that and why was it even necessary? Nobody in a relationship with somebody they truly love, want to marry and already have a kid with is understanding enough to just go with the flow whenever the one that got away shows up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2025
Frustrating read. Starts off well, turns soppy. H breaks up with h - when you find out why, it doesn't feel it was enough of a reason. The h has a kid with another guy, and is about to marry him when H re-emerges. I hate this trope. It means the ex will permanently be a part of the H&hs' lives. Anyway, h rejects him, he tries to move on. h realizes her mistake goes back to him, he's with his new woman - who spends the night with him at his place, and the next day he and the h reconcile and they have sex. I mean, his other gf was JUST there! What a mess of a story. Big disappointment for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
Penelope Ward used to be an autobuy author. Then she wrote a few books I was less than impressed with and though I was still buying her books, because I was finding so many new authors, I wasn’t reading Penelope’s newer books. But when this one came out recently I figured it was time to read her newest book. Rather than potentially wasting money, I picked it up on KU.
It hurt to read this book and I mean this in the very best of ways. Primrose Gallagher, our heroine, is in art school. She’s been living with her aunt and her husband in order to save money. But when they both die due to carbon dioxide poisoning while on vacation, she knows that his son will be coming soon to take over the house and family business. When Dorian Remington does show up she’s flummoxed by how attractive he is. Things don’t start in the best of ways. He’s kind of cranky, he’s just lost his father who he loved but didn’t have the best of relationships with. In addition, he knows his life as he knows it has changed. He doesn’t know Primrose but agrees to let her stay the night and arranges to have all her stuff moved the next day. But the next day he’s in a much better frame of mind and agrees to let her stay. He’s going to have to put in some vey long days to get things sorted out so he won’t be home much anyway.
Although this proves to be true, they do run into each other occasionally and a growing friendship begins to flourish along with a great deal of attraction. I love these scenes. Ms. Ward is such a good writer, I felt as if I were in the room with them and experiencing their growing feelings along with them. That’s why it hurts so much when Dorian, seemingly out of nowhere, ends things between them. I could feel the agony they both felt and it was so hard feeling their pain. It’s clear that it’s killing Dorian to this and we are left with the why.
The story resumes five years later and I’m not giving away anything at the risk of serious spoilers. The real pain begins now. Primrose who is such a wonderful heroine has to make life altering changes which are going to deeply hurt others no matter what she chooses and again the author has us experiencing the devastating decisions that all involved will have to make. There will be a great deal of hurt no matter what way she decides. Thus the hurt this book causes. Don’t despair though. As this is a romance through and through there is a HEA.
Less than five minutes after I finished reading this book I returned it and promptly purchased a copy. There’s no way I won’t be reading this one again. Technically there were a few things that kept it from being a full five stars. But I’m much more of an emotional reader and, for me, this book is emotionally perfect.
It hurt to read this book and I mean this in the very best of ways. Primrose Gallagher, our heroine, is in art school. She’s been living with her aunt and her husband in order to save money. But when they both die due to carbon dioxide poisoning while on vacation, she knows that his son will be coming soon to take over the house and family business. When Dorian Remington does show up she’s flummoxed by how attractive he is. Things don’t start in the best of ways. He’s kind of cranky, he’s just lost his father who he loved but didn’t have the best of relationships with. In addition, he knows his life as he knows it has changed. He doesn’t know Primrose but agrees to let her stay the night and arranges to have all her stuff moved the next day. But the next day he’s in a much better frame of mind and agrees to let her stay. He’s going to have to put in some vey long days to get things sorted out so he won’t be home much anyway.
Although this proves to be true, they do run into each other occasionally and a growing friendship begins to flourish along with a great deal of attraction. I love these scenes. Ms. Ward is such a good writer, I felt as if I were in the room with them and experiencing their growing feelings along with them. That’s why it hurts so much when Dorian, seemingly out of nowhere, ends things between them. I could feel the agony they both felt and it was so hard feeling their pain. It’s clear that it’s killing Dorian to this and we are left with the why.
The story resumes five years later and I’m not giving away anything at the risk of serious spoilers. The real pain begins now. Primrose who is such a wonderful heroine has to make life altering changes which are going to deeply hurt others no matter what she chooses and again the author has us experiencing the devastating decisions that all involved will have to make. There will be a great deal of hurt no matter what way she decides. Thus the hurt this book causes. Don’t despair though. As this is a romance through and through there is a HEA.
Less than five minutes after I finished reading this book I returned it and promptly purchased a copy. There’s no way I won’t be reading this one again. Technically there were a few things that kept it from being a full five stars. But I’m much more of an emotional reader and, for me, this book is emotionally perfect.
September 1, 2025
Penelope Ward is always one of my go to writers where I pretty much love and enjoy her books. When I saw The House Guest came out I immediately stopped what I was doing and downloaded the book.
Primrose is staying with her aunt and her rich uncle while she is in art school. While on vacation they pass away and his son now inherits his assets. Including the house Primrose lives in. When Primrose first meets Dorian he is moody and brings home dates, admits he doesn’t do “serious” relationships. They don’t get along at first but quickly they begin to connect and become friends. Things become more quickly and they fall in love. I won’t say too much more to give spoilers but this point is all about 45% into the book. I was just waiting for the shoe to drop and it did.
While I enjoyed the storyline and characters. I did find myself finding a lot of the storyline was a little cheesy. l usually do not say that about Ms. Ward’s writing but some of the lines I wanted to giggle at. 😆 with that said. It was still a very enjoyable book and I liked the direction the author took the book. Especially with another character…. Wish I could say more but I really liked “them”. I almost wished for a different ending just because how much I did like them and respect their character.
While this wasn’t my favorite Penelope Ward story. I read it in an entire day. Her books always do that to me.
I give The House Guest by Penelope Ward 3.5 stars.
Primrose is staying with her aunt and her rich uncle while she is in art school. While on vacation they pass away and his son now inherits his assets. Including the house Primrose lives in. When Primrose first meets Dorian he is moody and brings home dates, admits he doesn’t do “serious” relationships. They don’t get along at first but quickly they begin to connect and become friends. Things become more quickly and they fall in love. I won’t say too much more to give spoilers but this point is all about 45% into the book. I was just waiting for the shoe to drop and it did.
While I enjoyed the storyline and characters. I did find myself finding a lot of the storyline was a little cheesy. l usually do not say that about Ms. Ward’s writing but some of the lines I wanted to giggle at. 😆 with that said. It was still a very enjoyable book and I liked the direction the author took the book. Especially with another character…. Wish I could say more but I really liked “them”. I almost wished for a different ending just because how much I did like them and respect their character.
While this wasn’t my favorite Penelope Ward story. I read it in an entire day. Her books always do that to me.
I give The House Guest by Penelope Ward 3.5 stars.
October 17, 2025
I hated this.
I hated it for all the reasons others haven't liked it.
I hated it because of Dorian's arrogance and utter manchild selfishness in trying to get Primrose back.
I hated how she treated her fiancee and he treated Liv. Ultimately, despite not a bad start, I found them both somewhat despicable.
I didn't feel the connection here, just two desperately immature people who probably deserve each other
I hated it for all the reasons others haven't liked it.
I hated it because of Dorian's arrogance and utter manchild selfishness in trying to get Primrose back.
I hated how she treated her fiancee and he treated Liv. Ultimately, despite not a bad start, I found them both somewhat despicable.
I didn't feel the connection here, just two desperately immature people who probably deserve each other
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2025
oof
I love Penelope wards books, but this one was rough for me. Prepare for spoilers:
Rekindling love is one of my least favorite tropes. I know this happens in real life but it is maddening. Once primrose has a daughter by another man there is obviously no way this could end without hurting people. I almost gave up. In all reality Casey was the better man and person so I’m glad he got a HEA. But I hated the cheating (and yes I’d call all that cheating) that primrose and Dorian engaged in. This one was not for me, but was well written and I acknowledge I do not like this trope
I love Penelope wards books, but this one was rough for me. Prepare for spoilers:
Rekindling love is one of my least favorite tropes. I know this happens in real life but it is maddening. Once primrose has a daughter by another man there is obviously no way this could end without hurting people. I almost gave up. In all reality Casey was the better man and person so I’m glad he got a HEA. But I hated the cheating (and yes I’d call all that cheating) that primrose and Dorian engaged in. This one was not for me, but was well written and I acknowledge I do not like this trope
September 1, 2025
Too Much Back and Forth
Too much back and forth. Too much destruction of relationships with other people. I didn’t care for the storyline. This book also lacked the witty dialogue I enjoy in other Penelope Ward books.
Too much back and forth. Too much destruction of relationships with other people. I didn’t care for the storyline. This book also lacked the witty dialogue I enjoy in other Penelope Ward books.
October 24, 2025
I love Penelope's books.
Her romances are always a rollercoaster of brutal, raw emotions.
This book is a great example.
A second-chance love story with many obstacles and many raw feelings.
It's not an easy subject, and it's also a very complicated relationship that ends in emotional disaster for many of the characters.
It wasn't what I expected, but that's always like that in Penelope's stories. That's why I love her books.
The story describes a wild, soulmate love.
A love that spans many years and many layers and shades of romantic euphoria to ends in a late HEA.
Not everything is rosy and beautiful in the story, but that's why the book is real, raw, and brutally authentic.
That's why I love romance.
Her romances are always a rollercoaster of brutal, raw emotions.
This book is a great example.
A second-chance love story with many obstacles and many raw feelings.
It's not an easy subject, and it's also a very complicated relationship that ends in emotional disaster for many of the characters.
It wasn't what I expected, but that's always like that in Penelope's stories. That's why I love her books.
The story describes a wild, soulmate love.
A love that spans many years and many layers and shades of romantic euphoria to ends in a late HEA.
Not everything is rosy and beautiful in the story, but that's why the book is real, raw, and brutally authentic.
That's why I love romance.
August 31, 2025
The House Guest left me wrapped in my feelings. Penelope Ward does her magic with this one. She knows how to dig in and touch that part of you that somehow has you feeling emotions on an intense level. This is Primrose’s and Dorian’s story. The House Guest is unlike so many stories I’ve read.
It’s a story of learning to open your heart. Both characters, have been faced with similar tragedies, but face journeys that are different. But it’s the tragedy that brings them together.
Being very much the independent heroine, Primrose is strong in character but has an endearing vulnerability to her. Her inner struggles are overwhelming. And at times, I didn’t know how she’d conquer them.
Dorian is a forthright kind of guy. Being affected by his own unfortunate events, he learns how to navigate what has become his new life. He’s a single guy living his life, until Primrose makes her mark, and his life is turned upside down.
Their story is truly a mixed bag that I loved both reading and listening to. Their chemistry knows no bounds and is heat personified. The twists and turns Penelope drops in this story are heart dropping; and lay their seeds of uncertainty. But my, they make this story juicier and more intoxicating. I couldn’t put it down, and I know you won’t either. Bravo to Penelope Ward. The House Guest is an amazing read that is unforgettable!
And a HUGE applause to both Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood. Dorian and Primrose are brilliantly portrayed. This book was brought to life in a way that was engaging and exciting. I really loved this narration!
It’s a story of learning to open your heart. Both characters, have been faced with similar tragedies, but face journeys that are different. But it’s the tragedy that brings them together.
Being very much the independent heroine, Primrose is strong in character but has an endearing vulnerability to her. Her inner struggles are overwhelming. And at times, I didn’t know how she’d conquer them.
Dorian is a forthright kind of guy. Being affected by his own unfortunate events, he learns how to navigate what has become his new life. He’s a single guy living his life, until Primrose makes her mark, and his life is turned upside down.
Their story is truly a mixed bag that I loved both reading and listening to. Their chemistry knows no bounds and is heat personified. The twists and turns Penelope drops in this story are heart dropping; and lay their seeds of uncertainty. But my, they make this story juicier and more intoxicating. I couldn’t put it down, and I know you won’t either. Bravo to Penelope Ward. The House Guest is an amazing read that is unforgettable!
And a HUGE applause to both Teddy Hamilton and Savannah Peachwood. Dorian and Primrose are brilliantly portrayed. This book was brought to life in a way that was engaging and exciting. I really loved this narration!
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