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Penthouse Prey
Welcome to the Primal Club where all your darkest fantasies come to life…
Quinn Huxley never expected to run into Devlin Rayburn, the boy who bullied her in high school, ever again. But twelve years later, he walks back into her life offering her the one thing she can’t one night with him and he’ll save her parents’ failing business.
All she has to do is come to the opening night of Devlin Rayburn’s private, elite penthouse club and play his little game. She thinks she can handle him, but the moment she steps into his glittering world and discovers what his game is, she’s trapped…by her own desire.
Run, little princess, run…
He will chase her, catch her and claim her until she forgets everything outside herself but him and the pleasure he can give her. But when the night is over, will either she or Devlin be able to walk away from each other?
*This is a short, spicy novella that involves primal chase play
Quinn Huxley never expected to run into Devlin Rayburn, the boy who bullied her in high school, ever again. But twelve years later, he walks back into her life offering her the one thing she can’t one night with him and he’ll save her parents’ failing business.
All she has to do is come to the opening night of Devlin Rayburn’s private, elite penthouse club and play his little game. She thinks she can handle him, but the moment she steps into his glittering world and discovers what his game is, she’s trapped…by her own desire.
Run, little princess, run…
He will chase her, catch her and claim her until she forgets everything outside herself but him and the pleasure he can give her. But when the night is over, will either she or Devlin be able to walk away from each other?
*This is a short, spicy novella that involves primal chase play
75 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2025
8 people want to read
About the author
Emma Castle
11 books516 followersEmma Castle has always loved reading but didn’t know she loved romance until she was enduring the trials of law school. She discovered the dark and sexy world of romance novels and since then has never looked back! She loves writing about sexy, alpha male heroes who know just how to seduce women even if they are a bit naughty about it. When Emma’s not writing, she may be obsessing over her favorite show Supernatural where she’s a total Team Dean Winchester kind of girl!
To find out when her latest books release sign up at www.emmacastlebooks.com for her newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 11, 2025
I’m not the target audience for this book. I’m being gentle on my review because based off the current reviews this has (4.23 on Goodreads at the time of this review being left) it’s clear some people did enjoy this.
✨Things I Disliked ✨
👉🏻 The bullying - limited and not a strong start to the book
👉🏻 Viking Themed Role Play - Is this a real thing? Who out here is doing this? Comment below and let me know
👉🏻 CNC - Where was this at in the book?
✨ Tropes ✨
📖 Third Person POV
📝 Novella
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
⚔️ Viking Themed Roleplay + “CNC”
🌶️ Spicy(ish)
I’m not here to bust this authors chaps. It’s obvious that this book wasn’t meant for me. That doesn’t mean you won’t like it though. Remember, this is a novella, you’re not going to get a full blown detailed book. Also, I would give this author another chance and read another book by her.
Expected Release Date: AVAILABLE NOW
Thank you to BookSirens and Author Emma Castle for the ebook. All thoughts in this review are my own.
✨Things I Disliked ✨
👉🏻 The bullying - limited and not a strong start to the book
👉🏻 Viking Themed Role Play - Is this a real thing? Who out here is doing this? Comment below and let me know
👉🏻 CNC - Where was this at in the book?
✨ Tropes ✨
📖 Third Person POV
📝 Novella
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
⚔️ Viking Themed Roleplay + “CNC”
🌶️ Spicy(ish)
I’m not here to bust this authors chaps. It’s obvious that this book wasn’t meant for me. That doesn’t mean you won’t like it though. Remember, this is a novella, you’re not going to get a full blown detailed book. Also, I would give this author another chance and read another book by her.
Expected Release Date: AVAILABLE NOW
Thank you to BookSirens and Author Emma Castle for the ebook. All thoughts in this review are my own.
September 24, 2025
⭐ ARC Review: Penthouse Prey by Emma Castle
This short story serves as the origin of the main character’s darker side, giving readers insight into the bully we meet. Told through the dynamic between him and the FMC, who is on the receiving end of his cruelty, it sets the stage for the bigger story to come.
The storyline and overall plot are very interesting, and it’s clear the author has put a lot of thought into building this backstory. The writing itself is vivid and descriptive, which made the tension between the characters come alive on the page and I can see it playing out as I read which is a credit to Emma.
That said, there are a few areas that stood out to me. The prologue in particular definitely needs a trigger warning—the scene caught me by surprise, and while the dialogue provides some context, I still think readers deserve a heads-up.
I also found myself wishing for more pushback from the FMC. Throughout the book, the MMC’s power and position come across strongly, but her side of the story felt underdeveloped. From a reader and female perspective, I wanted her anger to come through more in certain moments. This stood out especially in the first chapter, which takes place twelve years after the prologue. Given their painful history, her quick acceptance of the situation felt a little too easy; more resistance or hesitation would have added depth and made her reactions feel truer to her past experiences.
At only five chapters, the book also felt quite fast paced. While the quick flow kept me engaged, I found myself wishing for more development in certain areas. Some of the emotional weight could have been even stronger if given more space to breathe.
As an introduction to the characters and the conflict that will shape them, Penthouse Prey definitely delivers. It’s a solid foundation, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the story continues to expand in future installments of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This short story serves as the origin of the main character’s darker side, giving readers insight into the bully we meet. Told through the dynamic between him and the FMC, who is on the receiving end of his cruelty, it sets the stage for the bigger story to come.
The storyline and overall plot are very interesting, and it’s clear the author has put a lot of thought into building this backstory. The writing itself is vivid and descriptive, which made the tension between the characters come alive on the page and I can see it playing out as I read which is a credit to Emma.
That said, there are a few areas that stood out to me. The prologue in particular definitely needs a trigger warning—the scene caught me by surprise, and while the dialogue provides some context, I still think readers deserve a heads-up.
I also found myself wishing for more pushback from the FMC. Throughout the book, the MMC’s power and position come across strongly, but her side of the story felt underdeveloped. From a reader and female perspective, I wanted her anger to come through more in certain moments. This stood out especially in the first chapter, which takes place twelve years after the prologue. Given their painful history, her quick acceptance of the situation felt a little too easy; more resistance or hesitation would have added depth and made her reactions feel truer to her past experiences.
At only five chapters, the book also felt quite fast paced. While the quick flow kept me engaged, I found myself wishing for more development in certain areas. Some of the emotional weight could have been even stronger if given more space to breathe.
As an introduction to the characters and the conflict that will shape them, Penthouse Prey definitely delivers. It’s a solid foundation, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the story continues to expand in future installments of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2025
This story was such a fun, addictive read! I loved the surprise Viking twist in the club—it made things feel fresh and exciting. Quinn and Devlin’s chemistry was full of tension and heat, and the “Run, little princess, run…” line sealed the deal. A quick, spicy, and thrilling escape!
October 4, 2025
Penthouse Prey by Emma Castle is a short, spicy novella / origin story that cracks open the darker edges of its male main character (MMC) and sets up tension, power, and desire in high-heat fashion. We first see a prologue that shows Devlin’s bully persona in full—mean, controlling, intense—from Quinn’s suffering point of view. Then twelve years later, Devlin returns offering Quinn one night in his elite penthouse club—enough to save her parents’ failing business—on one condition: she plays his game. Sparks fly. Power shifts. Desire does its thing.
What I liked:
The backstory is well thought out. The prologue gives us the bully’s origin, and the contrast with the present gives emotional stakes. You feel Quinn’s fear and Devlin’s dominance.
Castle’s writing is vivid and descriptive. The tension between the two characters crackles—you can almost hear Quinn’s heart pounding, see the glittering penthouse lights, smell danger.
It’s concise. For a novella, it moves at breakneck speed, which works for a primal‐chase kind of setup.
What could’ve been better:
The prologue is sharp and impactful, but it needs a Trigger Warning. It hit hard, unexpectedly, and some readers may find certain elements of it quite intense.
Quinn’s emotional responses later on could feel underdeveloped. Given what she went through, her acceptance of Devlin’s proposal sometimes seems too easy; more hesitation, more resistance, more internal conflict would’ve made her reaction feel more real.
The fast pacing means some moments don’t have time to breathe. The "hunt" that was hinted at? It’s teased, but not fully realized here—and as someone who loves that primal‐pursuit vibe, I found myself wanting it more.
Writing style:
Castle is confident in her voice. Her descriptions are lush, her emotional beats strong, and the power dynamics are sharply drawn. She knows how to ratchet tension. If there’s a weak spot, it’s that sometimes secondary emotional reactions (especially from Quinn) could be fleshed out more. But overall, a skilled hand.
Verdict:
Despite a few spots where the emotional depth could go a little deeper, Penthouse Prey is a compelling, hot, and well-crafted setup that earns all five stars. If you like romance with a strong dose of power play, tension, and gorgeous “cat and mouse” dynamics, this one will delight. I’m very much looking forward to what comes next in the series.
What I liked:
The backstory is well thought out. The prologue gives us the bully’s origin, and the contrast with the present gives emotional stakes. You feel Quinn’s fear and Devlin’s dominance.
Castle’s writing is vivid and descriptive. The tension between the two characters crackles—you can almost hear Quinn’s heart pounding, see the glittering penthouse lights, smell danger.
It’s concise. For a novella, it moves at breakneck speed, which works for a primal‐chase kind of setup.
What could’ve been better:
The prologue is sharp and impactful, but it needs a Trigger Warning. It hit hard, unexpectedly, and some readers may find certain elements of it quite intense.
Quinn’s emotional responses later on could feel underdeveloped. Given what she went through, her acceptance of Devlin’s proposal sometimes seems too easy; more hesitation, more resistance, more internal conflict would’ve made her reaction feel more real.
The fast pacing means some moments don’t have time to breathe. The "hunt" that was hinted at? It’s teased, but not fully realized here—and as someone who loves that primal‐pursuit vibe, I found myself wanting it more.
Writing style:
Castle is confident in her voice. Her descriptions are lush, her emotional beats strong, and the power dynamics are sharply drawn. She knows how to ratchet tension. If there’s a weak spot, it’s that sometimes secondary emotional reactions (especially from Quinn) could be fleshed out more. But overall, a skilled hand.
Verdict:
Despite a few spots where the emotional depth could go a little deeper, Penthouse Prey is a compelling, hot, and well-crafted setup that earns all five stars. If you like romance with a strong dose of power play, tension, and gorgeous “cat and mouse” dynamics, this one will delight. I’m very much looking forward to what comes next in the series.
October 8, 2025
Quinn meets Devlin when she becomes a student on a partial scholarship at an elite private high school called Braxley Preparatory. Devlin bullies her every chance he gets, but she doesn’t know the real reason why.
Fast forward 12 years. Devlin’s father died and now Devlin is free. He sold his father’s business so he could start his own endeavor. He opens a new club called Primal Club.
He catches Quinn as she is leaving her parents’ house one day, a limo from across the street turns around and comes up behind her. A voice says “Get inside, Huxley.” She immediately knows that voice… it’s Devlin, the star of her fantasies! He makes her an offer. Come to his new club on opening night and perform a scene with him and he’ll pay to move her parents’ bakery to a different location in a newer part of town. He tells her they have “unfinished business.”
She arrives on opening night not exactly sure what’s going to happen, but then Devlin takes her behind the curtain to start her fantasy. He is very pleased when Quinn gets into her role!
The evening goes better than he expected! And, she comes to the realization that she’s always been Devlin’s. After she’s done a bit of exploring, she asks him, “Why Vikings?” He tells her she knows why. But she wants the words. So he tells her that he did it for her, because he loves her and always has. He says that from the moment he met her, he was no longer lost. She found him.
This was an edgy, yet totally yummy story! At first I wasn’t sure about Devlin, but he stepped up! This is my first read of Emma Castle and I enjoyed everything about this book.
A short, but sweet read that brings the heat and the heart. I loved this book and I bet you will too! Go ahead and grab it today!
Fast forward 12 years. Devlin’s father died and now Devlin is free. He sold his father’s business so he could start his own endeavor. He opens a new club called Primal Club.
He catches Quinn as she is leaving her parents’ house one day, a limo from across the street turns around and comes up behind her. A voice says “Get inside, Huxley.” She immediately knows that voice… it’s Devlin, the star of her fantasies! He makes her an offer. Come to his new club on opening night and perform a scene with him and he’ll pay to move her parents’ bakery to a different location in a newer part of town. He tells her they have “unfinished business.”
She arrives on opening night not exactly sure what’s going to happen, but then Devlin takes her behind the curtain to start her fantasy. He is very pleased when Quinn gets into her role!
The evening goes better than he expected! And, she comes to the realization that she’s always been Devlin’s. After she’s done a bit of exploring, she asks him, “Why Vikings?” He tells her she knows why. But she wants the words. So he tells her that he did it for her, because he loves her and always has. He says that from the moment he met her, he was no longer lost. She found him.
This was an edgy, yet totally yummy story! At first I wasn’t sure about Devlin, but he stepped up! This is my first read of Emma Castle and I enjoyed everything about this book.
A short, but sweet read that brings the heat and the heart. I loved this book and I bet you will too! Go ahead and grab it today!
October 3, 2025
I signed up for this ARC read because I LOVE primal play and while I really wanted to love this story but it just fell a little flat for me. First, the prologue where we meet our FMC Quinn and our MMC Devlin really needs a Trigger Warning. I really don't have triggers - but this almost was almost a deal breaker for me - while I realized it set up the rest of the story - it was very unexpected and I almost DNF'd at that point. The rest of the novella is set in the current time - where Quinn and Devlin reconnect and he sets up a proposition to her which will allow her to help her family and also act out a fantasy or two. The other part was I was disappointed with was I felt like we were set up for a "hunt" but that really left us hanging too. Devlin (who's been a little bit stalkerish lol which I loved) set up their night of play to meet some of Quinn's fantasies was really set up almost too perfectly. And ultimately I felt the lack of the "hunt" was a disappointment. This is short novella to set up with what I understand will be a series. We did meet a full cast of characters - Devlin's "found family". There was alot of potential here, but overall I just felt "meh" when I was done to the extent I'm on the fence as to if I'd read the next installment of not and I normally LOVE a good series.
December 11, 2025
2.5 stars (rounded to three)
Just letting you know I found this book on BookSirens and in exchange for reading it for free, I am leaving a review of it.
I will not lie to you, this was not my cup of tea however I am willing to give this author another chance with another book. Perhaps I’m a bit more hardcore but this felt like a light read despite the trigger warnings.
I’ve also never come across viking-roleplay before but I truly think that could’ve been executed better by maybe providing dialogue of the time.
Obviously, it’s a novella, so there wouldn’t be much dialogue however this felt like something that may be setting us up for the next series instead of truly focusing on the story here. It’s as if there’s a lot of foundation attempting to set in place and set us up for success in the future novellas if and when we choose to pick up the rest of the series.
Not enough spice either. And I don’t know if that’s the kind of bullying anyone wants to read first few paragraphs into the book either.
Now, I know it seems as if I didn’t like this novel however this is the first novel I finished in months. Which means it was good enough for me to finish and enjoy in the same way you’d probably pick it up as well.
Give it a shot, it’s actually not that bad.
Just letting you know I found this book on BookSirens and in exchange for reading it for free, I am leaving a review of it.
I will not lie to you, this was not my cup of tea however I am willing to give this author another chance with another book. Perhaps I’m a bit more hardcore but this felt like a light read despite the trigger warnings.
I’ve also never come across viking-roleplay before but I truly think that could’ve been executed better by maybe providing dialogue of the time.
Obviously, it’s a novella, so there wouldn’t be much dialogue however this felt like something that may be setting us up for the next series instead of truly focusing on the story here. It’s as if there’s a lot of foundation attempting to set in place and set us up for success in the future novellas if and when we choose to pick up the rest of the series.
Not enough spice either. And I don’t know if that’s the kind of bullying anyone wants to read first few paragraphs into the book either.
Now, I know it seems as if I didn’t like this novel however this is the first novel I finished in months. Which means it was good enough for me to finish and enjoy in the same way you’d probably pick it up as well.
Give it a shot, it’s actually not that bad.
October 22, 2025
Rating: 3.5/5 — Sinful setup, softer execution, still a solid dark-lite escape … but I’m ok with rounding this up to a 4….
Primal Club promises darkness and danger, but what it delivers is a more restrained, mid-level enemies-to-lovers story with just enough spice to keep things interesting. The setup — a former bully offering a deal that forces a reunion — hints at a twisted power play, yet the tone leans more sensual than truly intense or depraved.
While the primal chase and Dom/sub elements are present, they’re handled with a lighter touch, making this novella accessible even to readers who don’t usually venture into darker romance. The third-person narration works well, shifting smoothly between Quinn and Devlin’s perspectives and giving glimpses of both vulnerability and control.
Overall, Primal Club is a quick, steamy read with a hint of danger and redemption — not as dark as it sounds, but still satisfying for those who enjoy tension, temptation, and a touch of heat.
I received a free ARC of this book and this review is only my opinion.
Primal Club promises darkness and danger, but what it delivers is a more restrained, mid-level enemies-to-lovers story with just enough spice to keep things interesting. The setup — a former bully offering a deal that forces a reunion — hints at a twisted power play, yet the tone leans more sensual than truly intense or depraved.
While the primal chase and Dom/sub elements are present, they’re handled with a lighter touch, making this novella accessible even to readers who don’t usually venture into darker romance. The third-person narration works well, shifting smoothly between Quinn and Devlin’s perspectives and giving glimpses of both vulnerability and control.
Overall, Primal Club is a quick, steamy read with a hint of danger and redemption — not as dark as it sounds, but still satisfying for those who enjoy tension, temptation, and a touch of heat.
I received a free ARC of this book and this review is only my opinion.
October 13, 2025
Quinn never forgot her tormentor from prep school, the handsome bully who made her life hell for years. Until the day that she overheard him and his friends in the school library, only for him to corner her and make a proposition, either he pretended to f*ck her, or she took her chances with his friends who actually would. Twelve years later, he surprises her with a new proposition: one night with him in his new club, and he would safe her parents’ failing business.
Devlin has always remembered the beautiful girl he had to leave behind, but outside forces kept him from ever acting on his desires. But with the opening of his new club, he knows this might be his only chance to make her his.
I was given a copy of this for review, and it was a fun novella with all the spice, and is a lead up to a full series featuring other characters in the story. If you’re not afraid of bully romances or a little primal play, this one is for you.
Devlin has always remembered the beautiful girl he had to leave behind, but outside forces kept him from ever acting on his desires. But with the opening of his new club, he knows this might be his only chance to make her his.
I was given a copy of this for review, and it was a fun novella with all the spice, and is a lead up to a full series featuring other characters in the story. If you’re not afraid of bully romances or a little primal play, this one is for you.
November 13, 2025
Quinn Huxley was bullied while attending the elite high school because she was a scholarship student. Devlin Rayburn was the person who bullied her the most. They secretly yearned for each other. The book picks up twelve years later and readers find that they never forgot each other, nor had their passion for each other waivered. Devlin was no longer under his father’s thumb and had opened a smex club for a certain kink with his friends. Quinn, a successful accountant, was being pressured to take over her parent’s struggling bakery. They meet again and make a deal. One night together for help with the bakery.
I enjoyed the book, enjoyed the attention to detail with the plot, and thought the book was well-written. The author did a great job with world building, particularly for such a short book. I recommend this book for fans of games of domination.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the book, enjoyed the attention to detail with the plot, and thought the book was well-written. The author did a great job with world building, particularly for such a short book. I recommend this book for fans of games of domination.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
‘Penthouse Prey’ is a good bully romance. It follows Delvin and Quinn starting from their time at their prestigious high school, and transitions to 12 years later. Both have gone through many changes. The one constant is the memory of how they felt one fateful day in a library all those years ago.
Author Emma Cast delivers a great super spicy, bully redemption romance. I enjoyed the characters, the setting, and the plot. Good stuff.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Delvin
FMC:
✨Quinn
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Tropes:
👉spicy primal romance
👉forbidden love
👉bully to romance
👉forced proximity
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
Burn Speed:
✨fast
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
✨MFM - not MCs
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Author Emma Cast delivers a great super spicy, bully redemption romance. I enjoyed the characters, the setting, and the plot. Good stuff.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Delvin
FMC:
✨Quinn
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Tropes:
👉spicy primal romance
👉forbidden love
👉bully to romance
👉forced proximity
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex
Burn Speed:
✨fast
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
✨MFM - not MCs
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2025
I received this as an ARC and found it to be a quick, engaging read. Written in third-person POV, the novella delivers on its steamy premise with solid pacing. While the story held my attention, I struggled to connect emotionally with the characters, which made it harder to fully immerse myself in their journey. That said, given its brief length-just 74 pages, I understand that there was limited space for deeper character development.
The language in the intimate scenes occasionally felt awkward. Terms like “mount” and “staff” didn’t quite work for me and disrupted the flow. A more refined vocabulary could have enhanced the sensual tone.
Overall, I rated it 3 stars because of the above. The concept is strong, and I’d definitely be interested in a longer standalone version (200–300 pages) that allows more space for character development and emotional depth.
The language in the intimate scenes occasionally felt awkward. Terms like “mount” and “staff” didn’t quite work for me and disrupted the flow. A more refined vocabulary could have enhanced the sensual tone.
Overall, I rated it 3 stars because of the above. The concept is strong, and I’d definitely be interested in a longer standalone version (200–300 pages) that allows more space for character development and emotional depth.
January 18, 2026
Spice, romance, history, and a desired future make up this story. Devlin is a rich man who could never get over his feelings for Quinn. Instead, they only grew over time and had him moving mountains and literally creating a whole world dedicated and designed for her. Quinn has a successful future, but there is one part of her past she cannot forget about and stop longing for… Devlin. She thinks what he wants with her is just for that night, but this guy is thinking much, much more long-term. The forever kind. I would love for a guy to go to such epic lengths to woo me and show me what his love is capable of! I do not mind the insta-love, because there are so many other great factors going on, and it has the setup of what I think will be a fun upcoming series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
Okay first off, this isn’t a long read but I was so giddy reading from the getgo lol. This was my first time reading a novella (honestly I didn’t know that was a thing). Obviously as a smut lover and the genre of the book being dark romance, I knew what I was getting into but despite that, the excitement was still totally there. Loved the pet names (baby, princess, good girl yes pleaseeee 😍). The only reason for the 4 stars is I would’ve enjoyed a longer book with more context on both of the fmc/mmc’s past. Anyways, great short read!! I truly hope the next books in the series adopt some small changes and we get an absolute masterpiece.
**I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaning this review voluntarily!
**I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaning this review voluntarily!
November 9, 2025
The book is read in third person and that is the only real critique i have towards the book. I prefer that the characters tell the story. I feel like you can better understand the plot and emotions the author wants the reader to feel when reading their book.
I do love the plot the characters are great and well written and create the desire to read more about everyone.
I think Quinn and Devin should have had more to this story than what was written. I feel like the ending was rushed to make everybody get the HEA finish line. I loved Devin friends and hope that when we read about these guys that we get to have more plot. The book felt short and rushed. That mixed with the third person is why i only give it four stars.
I do love the plot the characters are great and well written and create the desire to read more about everyone.
I think Quinn and Devin should have had more to this story than what was written. I feel like the ending was rushed to make everybody get the HEA finish line. I loved Devin friends and hope that when we read about these guys that we get to have more plot. The book felt short and rushed. That mixed with the third person is why i only give it four stars.
November 21, 2025
PRIMAL PREY
This short novella from Emma Castle is part of a series, something I didn't realise when I read it, however, I don't think this impacts the story. Based around Devlin and Quinn and their unfinished business from school days, this primal play novella was intense but could have easily being more. But as this is a novella not a full blown book, I enjoyed it for what it was, a quick easy read with characters trying to fulfill their dreams. There is no real time for full character development and growth, but what it does achieve is meeting a character's desire and another's wish at time with the one that slipped through their hands. If this is the start of a new series from Emma Castle, then I look forward to seeing where it all goes.
This short novella from Emma Castle is part of a series, something I didn't realise when I read it, however, I don't think this impacts the story. Based around Devlin and Quinn and their unfinished business from school days, this primal play novella was intense but could have easily being more. But as this is a novella not a full blown book, I enjoyed it for what it was, a quick easy read with characters trying to fulfill their dreams. There is no real time for full character development and growth, but what it does achieve is meeting a character's desire and another's wish at time with the one that slipped through their hands. If this is the start of a new series from Emma Castle, then I look forward to seeing where it all goes.
December 3, 2025
This is the second book I have read by Emma Castle and I loved them both. But, Penthouse Prey is my favorite. The story was very well developed and although it is a fast read Emma made sure nothing was left out from beginning to end. She did an amazing job bringing Quinn and Devlin to life. I felt very connected to both of them. Chemistry, oh these two had it in spades.
I am keeping my review short because I don't want to say too much and take away from the readers overall experience. This definitely will not be the last book I read by this author. If you enjoy a hot spicy read then you do not want to pass this one up.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am keeping my review short because I don't want to say too much and take away from the readers overall experience. This definitely will not be the last book I read by this author. If you enjoy a hot spicy read then you do not want to pass this one up.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2025
Oooh, this was such a fun read! 🖤 I’ve been stuck in a reading slump, and I wanted something short to break it, thankfully I remembered downloading this free novella. I’m so glad I did, because it was quick, exciting, and exactly what I needed.
The spice is really good, and the story building was surprisingly solid for such a short format. I honestly hope Ms. Castle writes a book or novella for each of Devlin’s friends, I’d be all over that.
There are a few small errors in the writing (missing words or awkward phrasing), but since it’s a free novella, it didn’t bother me too much. Overall, I had a great time with this one!
The spice is really good, and the story building was surprisingly solid for such a short format. I honestly hope Ms. Castle writes a book or novella for each of Devlin’s friends, I’d be all over that.
There are a few small errors in the writing (missing words or awkward phrasing), but since it’s a free novella, it didn’t bother me too much. Overall, I had a great time with this one!
October 1, 2025
ARC Review-BookSirens
Star Rating: 3.75⭐️
Pub Date: Sept 13th, 2025
Spice: 🌶️🌶️(not spicy too much to me)
Genre: Dark Romance
This was a very quick read and I did enjoy the characters and the connection between them but everything that happened kinda just happened so fast and there’s not too much depth to it. I liked the plot and the characters. I did want more between the two since it just gives a little romance between Quinn and Devlin. I overall enjoyed this, I just wanted more bully or just darkness but there’s not much to it since it’s so short. Still enjoyed it though, especially the Viking stuff at the club.
Star Rating: 3.75⭐️
Pub Date: Sept 13th, 2025
Spice: 🌶️🌶️(not spicy too much to me)
Genre: Dark Romance
This was a very quick read and I did enjoy the characters and the connection between them but everything that happened kinda just happened so fast and there’s not too much depth to it. I liked the plot and the characters. I did want more between the two since it just gives a little romance between Quinn and Devlin. I overall enjoyed this, I just wanted more bully or just darkness but there’s not much to it since it’s so short. Still enjoyed it though, especially the Viking stuff at the club.
October 20, 2025
Penthouse Prey is a quickie dark romance novella that introduces the author’s upcoming Primal Club series and brings together years after their high school days ended Devlin and Quinn, days when he was the predator and she was the prey, until the day he became a protector.
When Devlin walks back into her life with an offer of help in saving her parents bakery life comes full circle for Quinn.
A nicely written spicy little walk on the wild side soon unfurls through the pages with truths unmasked and passions ignited in a savory good read.
Looking forward to the future stories to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Devlin walks back into her life with an offer of help in saving her parents bakery life comes full circle for Quinn.
A nicely written spicy little walk on the wild side soon unfurls through the pages with truths unmasked and passions ignited in a savory good read.
Looking forward to the future stories to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
OMG! The chemistry between Quinn and Devlin is intense from beginning to end! Delicious desires, decadent debauchery, and an undeniably beautiful story of passion and anticipation! He’s been so patient and she’s always had him on her mind: each of them mesmerized by the other. Emma Castle captivates and captures the depth of emotions between them and leaves me wanting so much more. It’s a short story, but packed with kinks, primal play, and role play that’s on a completely different scale: Devlin went all out to impress his princess! Definitely 10/10 spice and so many stories to tell!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2025
I loved this short novella. It’s the prequel to an upcoming series - primal club and I for one am looking forward to when the next book is out.
It’s a terrific introduction to the primal club - a sex club owned by 5 college friends who bring people’s desires and fantasies to life. Such an interesting premise and the characters are very likeable. I especially loved Devlin, the MMC in this book. He’s so sweet and his handling of the MMC is quite gentle.
Penthouse Prey is a fun page turning read and I give it 5 stars. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s a terrific introduction to the primal club - a sex club owned by 5 college friends who bring people’s desires and fantasies to life. Such an interesting premise and the characters are very likeable. I especially loved Devlin, the MMC in this book. He’s so sweet and his handling of the MMC is quite gentle.
Penthouse Prey is a fun page turning read and I give it 5 stars. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 11, 2025
Short and Sweet! I loved that this was actually a really nice short novel. This is the whole trope of "The one that got away" and I really enjoyed that they both got their HEA.
Ill read the next ones as they are a really great break to the massive ones. This was one of those stories that I really wish was longer, but I appreciated it more because I sped through it to quickly.
The connection between the characters was great! Honestly... nothing I would change other than More! More of the world, more of these two characters and their stories. And definitely more of this club!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ill read the next ones as they are a really great break to the massive ones. This was one of those stories that I really wish was longer, but I appreciated it more because I sped through it to quickly.
The connection between the characters was great! Honestly... nothing I would change other than More! More of the world, more of these two characters and their stories. And definitely more of this club!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2025
This was such a short and fun read!
It combines an “it has always been you” vibe with a wild scenario: your high school bully from 12 years ago offering to fulfill a long-time desire—for just one night. That’s exactly what happens here, and it made for such an entertaining setup.
The chemistry between Devlin and Quinn was electric, and the way their connection played out kept me hooked.
A solid 4-star read for me, and definitely on the spicy side (3.5 🌶️).
Big thanks to the author and BookSirens for this copy!
It combines an “it has always been you” vibe with a wild scenario: your high school bully from 12 years ago offering to fulfill a long-time desire—for just one night. That’s exactly what happens here, and it made for such an entertaining setup.
The chemistry between Devlin and Quinn was electric, and the way their connection played out kept me hooked.
A solid 4-star read for me, and definitely on the spicy side (3.5 🌶️).
Big thanks to the author and BookSirens for this copy!
October 2, 2025
Penthouse Prey by Emma Castle
Quinn Huxley went to Braxley Preparatory, an elite private high school, where she was bullied by Devlin Rayburn, so twelve years later, when he stopped on the road to talk to her, she didn't know what to do. I loved this story. It is so full of heat. I had a hard time putting it down. I fell for all the characters in this story. I highly recommend this story and hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest opinion.
Quinn Huxley went to Braxley Preparatory, an elite private high school, where she was bullied by Devlin Rayburn, so twelve years later, when he stopped on the road to talk to her, she didn't know what to do. I loved this story. It is so full of heat. I had a hard time putting it down. I fell for all the characters in this story. I highly recommend this story and hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest opinion.
October 16, 2025
Penthouse Prey is a very fun read. I fell in love with Quinn and Delvin. Ms. Emma's imagination and putting that to pen and paper, is fantastic. The flow is fast-paced, but it didn't feel rushed. Also also, there was just the right amount of spice. I'm really hoping and keeping my fingers crossed that Ms. Emma gives us novellas for all of Devlins friends. Whatever Ms. Emma writes I will be waiting for it.
If y'all like dark spicy romance then this is the book for y'all.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If y'all like dark spicy romance then this is the book for y'all.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Short read. Devlin is first seen as a bully, but later (much later) reveals he has real, deep feelings. Quinn was just trying to get through high school and became a target because she was smart and a scholarship kid. Despite getting a top notch degree and making a good living, however, she still isn’t seen or valued by her own family. When Devlin returns to her life, he brings with him the spark she had been missing. They like what they like and that works for them. A very sweet ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2025
Interesting story. Quinn went to a private school where she met Devlin who bullied her and tried to keep her safe at the same time. Twelve years later he makes a deal with her to help save her parents bakery. One night at his club where they will finish what happened in school. She is intriqued and accepts the offer. Devlin plans the night around Quinn's fantasies. This book is full of strong emotions, new beginnings and a happy ending. I enjoyed the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, it was a relatively short read and I would have loved more, I liked that there was actual substance to the storyline and that in the prologue you got some history and context for the main plot. I think it could have been made into a really good longer story, the only reason I haven’t given it 5 stars is for that reason and that I feel the ending was a little bit rushed and felt it didn’t do full justice to the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was a fun short read! There was several typos that were a bit distracting including completely calling the main male character by a different name at the end. I feel a longer book would’ve made this one even better. Some of the ways Devlin spoke seemed out of character.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you booksirens and to this author for allowing me to read this as an ARC, I will most definitely be tuning in to the rest of the series as I really did enjoy these characters regardless.
This was a fun short read! There was several typos that were a bit distracting including completely calling the main male character by a different name at the end. I feel a longer book would’ve made this one even better. Some of the ways Devlin spoke seemed out of character.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you booksirens and to this author for allowing me to read this as an ARC, I will most definitely be tuning in to the rest of the series as I really did enjoy these characters regardless.
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