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The Monster in the Manor
A delicious and steamy twist on a classic tale, where the monster stays a monster.
Peony Austin has just left her emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend, seeking a new life for herself. But it’s hard to achieve independence when all she has is ten dollars to her name. Sleeping in her car, Peony takes a job as a housekeeper for the reclusive billionaire, Mr. Edgewood.
Rupert Edgewood has good reasons for hiding. In exchange for his fortune, he lives as a monster, destined to never find true happiness. After driving away everyone with his temper and discerning taste for food, the winds of change come when Peony arrives and cooks him meals straight out of a fine dining restaurant.
As Rupert starts to fall for his new housekeeper, they still have never met. Will Rupert at last reveal himself despite his curse?
This is a full-length monster romance novel about a grumpy monster and the sunshine human who changes his whole world. It's sweet and cozy with a sprinkle of thrill. You can expect a slow burn, size difference, and lots of tasty meals.
Peony Austin has just left her emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend, seeking a new life for herself. But it’s hard to achieve independence when all she has is ten dollars to her name. Sleeping in her car, Peony takes a job as a housekeeper for the reclusive billionaire, Mr. Edgewood.
Rupert Edgewood has good reasons for hiding. In exchange for his fortune, he lives as a monster, destined to never find true happiness. After driving away everyone with his temper and discerning taste for food, the winds of change come when Peony arrives and cooks him meals straight out of a fine dining restaurant.
As Rupert starts to fall for his new housekeeper, they still have never met. Will Rupert at last reveal himself despite his curse?
This is a full-length monster romance novel about a grumpy monster and the sunshine human who changes his whole world. It's sweet and cozy with a sprinkle of thrill. You can expect a slow burn, size difference, and lots of tasty meals.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2026
90 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Lyonne Riley
39 books986 followersLyonne Riley writes super steamy monster romance, fantasy romance, and sci-fi romance. She lives in the middle of nowhere with her spouse and two dogs, writing spicy fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
April 13, 2026
Peony was a woman who ran from her abusive ex and was unhoused, looking for work. I loved that the book highlighted issues unhoused individuals face, such as their vehicles being towed and hiring bias. She was all sunshine but def had a bit of a temper when Rupert pushed her away. Rupert was socially isolated to protect himself and others, and deeply insecure about his body, given he was a beast man. They fell pretty quickly once they worked through some initial hiccups, and became one another’s biggest defenders.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: domestic violence (not hitting, but breaking things close to MC), emotional abuse, brief reference to past dubcon with ex, kidnapping, hostage situation, brief confinement (not by MC), gun violence, blood, life threatening injury and hospitalization, incompetent and biased police interactions, social isolation, depression, unhoused MC, boss/employee romantic relationship
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: domestic violence (not hitting, but breaking things close to MC), emotional abuse, brief reference to past dubcon with ex, kidnapping, hostage situation, brief confinement (not by MC), gun violence, blood, life threatening injury and hospitalization, incompetent and biased police interactions, social isolation, depression, unhoused MC, boss/employee romantic relationship
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a slow starter for me; the first 82 pages seemed to take me forever, the middle chunk flew by in a single day, and the last portion felt repeatitive and lost the enjoyment for me. I overall liked this story, but I think there were some things I would have liked to have been pared down or changed slightly. I didn't connect with our characters much, if at all, and I didn't really like their growth arcs. They felt very selfish in their actions and thoughts, not really finding empathy for where the other stood as easily as I'd hope for two characters falling/having fallen in love. While this isn't my favorite of Lyonne's writing, I'm excited to visit some of her backlist and see what she come's out with next!
I also think the Beauty and the Beast retelling may be getting stale for me as a reader in general as so many fantasy/romantasy/monster romance authors play with it, which may have impacted my overall enjoyment level. I try to go into ARCs with minimal information so I can cultivate my own opinions and not have my enjoyment impacted, but maybe knowing up front could have aided me here as it's very blatant that this is a reimagining/retelling. That's absolutely on me and my reading process, though, not the book or the author.
I also think the Beauty and the Beast retelling may be getting stale for me as a reader in general as so many fantasy/romantasy/monster romance authors play with it, which may have impacted my overall enjoyment level. I try to go into ARCs with minimal information so I can cultivate my own opinions and not have my enjoyment impacted, but maybe knowing up front could have aided me here as it's very blatant that this is a reimagining/retelling. That's absolutely on me and my reading process, though, not the book or the author.
March 21, 2026
4.5 ⭐
I am a SUCKER for most retellings! It's who I am, it's what I like - I'm nostagic, it's in my nature.
This book is a Beauty and the Beast retelling and naturally I enjoyed the hell out of it.
Lyonne Riley did a great job at taking this classic tale and keeping us completely invested in the story. There's a unique backstory for each of the main characters and they were both pretty relatable. We also get all that fun crazy monster smut we adore - interesting peen, tail play, size difference, horn holding, and more!
One of my favorite things in this book was the cooking aspect of it. There were a lot of fun and fancy foods but most importantly they both loved to cook and they even bonded while cooking together. The way the two of them came together and found each other melted my whole heart, I could honestly cry. They were very sweet together.
This book was just so dang good!
(But I would've liked a content warning for animal killing / hunting)
Thank you to Lyonne Riley for the advanced copy!
I am a SUCKER for most retellings! It's who I am, it's what I like - I'm nostagic, it's in my nature.
This book is a Beauty and the Beast retelling and naturally I enjoyed the hell out of it.
Lyonne Riley did a great job at taking this classic tale and keeping us completely invested in the story. There's a unique backstory for each of the main characters and they were both pretty relatable. We also get all that fun crazy monster smut we adore - interesting peen, tail play, size difference, horn holding, and more!
One of my favorite things in this book was the cooking aspect of it. There were a lot of fun and fancy foods but most importantly they both loved to cook and they even bonded while cooking together. The way the two of them came together and found each other melted my whole heart, I could honestly cry. They were very sweet together.
This book was just so dang good!
(But I would've liked a content warning for animal killing / hunting)
Thank you to Lyonne Riley for the advanced copy!
March 23, 2026
The Beauty and the Beast retelling is definitely what intrigued me the most about this story. That alone had me excited, and while there are elements I did enjoy, like the spice, overall this ended up being a 3-star read for me.
What I liked the most was probably the cozy vibe mixed with the spice. Peony’s love for cooking added a warm touch to the story, and some moments between her and Rupert were cute and did give me butterflies. I also appreciated their dynamic—grumpy monster x sunshine human—and the fact that she’s his housekeeper made their initial interactions feel really sweet, especially the exchange of messages.
That said, what really held this book back for me is the lack of depth. I feel like the story doesn’t go deep enough, both on the paranormal side and in the relationship between the characters, and that’s a shame, because it could have made the story feel so much more complete.
I understand that Peony accepts Rupert’s condition early on, but the way she just sets that thought aside without really processing it felt… off. He’s a monster, and it doesn’t seem like they live in a world where monsters are normal, so her immediate acceptance felt unrealistic. I kept waiting for more internal conflict, more questioning, more emotional weight, but it never really came.
Because of this, I also struggled to connect with their emotional arcs. They didn’t feel as deep as I had hoped, and at times the characters came across as selfish or lacking empathy for each other’s struggles. Rupert’s fears and trauma were often brushed aside too easily, while Peony tends to put her own desires first without fully considering that Rupert is a monster—and just because she accepts him as he is doesn’t mean the rest of the world will share her perspective. I can understand her optimism, but it felt a bit exaggerated given the kind of world they live in. I also get that the author may have wanted to keep these themes on the lighter side, but completely overlooking the negative aspects made it feel unrealistic to me.
The pacing also felt uneven. The beginning dragged, the middle flew by, and the final part became a bit repetitive. And while I don’t mind spice at all, there were moments where it felt excessive and took away from the emotional development I was hoping to see.
Overall, I didn’t dislike this book—I can see why it would work for readers looking for a light, steamy monster romance with cozy elements. But for me, it lacked the emotional and narrative depth that would have made it truly memorable.
Thanks to the author for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
What I liked the most was probably the cozy vibe mixed with the spice. Peony’s love for cooking added a warm touch to the story, and some moments between her and Rupert were cute and did give me butterflies. I also appreciated their dynamic—grumpy monster x sunshine human—and the fact that she’s his housekeeper made their initial interactions feel really sweet, especially the exchange of messages.
That said, what really held this book back for me is the lack of depth. I feel like the story doesn’t go deep enough, both on the paranormal side and in the relationship between the characters, and that’s a shame, because it could have made the story feel so much more complete.
I understand that Peony accepts Rupert’s condition early on, but the way she just sets that thought aside without really processing it felt… off. He’s a monster, and it doesn’t seem like they live in a world where monsters are normal, so her immediate acceptance felt unrealistic. I kept waiting for more internal conflict, more questioning, more emotional weight, but it never really came.
Because of this, I also struggled to connect with their emotional arcs. They didn’t feel as deep as I had hoped, and at times the characters came across as selfish or lacking empathy for each other’s struggles. Rupert’s fears and trauma were often brushed aside too easily, while Peony tends to put her own desires first without fully considering that Rupert is a monster—and just because she accepts him as he is doesn’t mean the rest of the world will share her perspective. I can understand her optimism, but it felt a bit exaggerated given the kind of world they live in. I also get that the author may have wanted to keep these themes on the lighter side, but completely overlooking the negative aspects made it feel unrealistic to me.
The pacing also felt uneven. The beginning dragged, the middle flew by, and the final part became a bit repetitive. And while I don’t mind spice at all, there were moments where it felt excessive and took away from the emotional development I was hoping to see.
Overall, I didn’t dislike this book—I can see why it would work for readers looking for a light, steamy monster romance with cozy elements. But for me, it lacked the emotional and narrative depth that would have made it truly memorable.
Thanks to the author for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, Id like to thank the author for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team for this incredible novel
~Spoilers ahead~
I've ready quit a few Beauty and the beast retellings, and sure, ive enjoyed them. But this, this was truly the masterpiece you salivate all weel thinking about having at an upscale restaurant. The way Peony and Rupert stole my heart so quickly was whiplash fast. Though not to say our faithful butler didnt do the same with his quick remarks and no nonsense attitude.
I enjoyed the war that Rupert found within himself on his appearance and "curse" and it not ending with him becoming a man again!? Chefs kiss phenomenal, monster lovers (and fuckers) forever!!!
Peony was a breath of fresh air, our little survivor trying so hard to be independent and be her best self after that trash of an ex was amazing. She stood up for herself and others! Took no nonsense and knew just when to call Rupert out for his bullshit. We love to see it!
I so desperately need more retellings like this, where the monster stays a monster and we all love and lust after him for it.
Thank you, so much for letting us fall in love with them and for giving us several courses of delicious monster loving >:3
~Spoilers ahead~
I've ready quit a few Beauty and the beast retellings, and sure, ive enjoyed them. But this, this was truly the masterpiece you salivate all weel thinking about having at an upscale restaurant. The way Peony and Rupert stole my heart so quickly was whiplash fast. Though not to say our faithful butler didnt do the same with his quick remarks and no nonsense attitude.
I enjoyed the war that Rupert found within himself on his appearance and "curse" and it not ending with him becoming a man again!? Chefs kiss phenomenal, monster lovers (and fuckers) forever!!!
Peony was a breath of fresh air, our little survivor trying so hard to be independent and be her best self after that trash of an ex was amazing. She stood up for herself and others! Took no nonsense and knew just when to call Rupert out for his bullshit. We love to see it!
I so desperately need more retellings like this, where the monster stays a monster and we all love and lust after him for it.
Thank you, so much for letting us fall in love with them and for giving us several courses of delicious monster loving >:3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2026
Ah man, I love a good monster romance, and this one definitely did not disappoint. There’s just something about monster stories that pull me in every time, and this book delivered the perfect mix of intrigue, romance, and just the right amount of heat.
Peony was such an interesting character to follow. She’s coming from a really difficult situation and is clearly looking for a fresh start and a chance to rebuild her life somewhere new. When the opportunity for a job comes through a relative, it feels like the perfect escape and a way for her to start over. I really enjoyed seeing her take that leap and try to create something better for herself.
And then we meet Rupert—the monster. His presence immediately adds this mysterious and slightly dangerous element to the story that makes it even more compelling. The dynamic between Peony and Rupert was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their interactions had tension, curiosity, and a growing attraction that made their scenes together really engaging.
Yes, the romance moved a bit quickly at times, but it still worked well within the story. Their connection felt fun and exciting to read, and the chemistry between Peony and Rupert was definitely spicy and full of energy. The author did a great job balancing the unusual monster element with the emotional and romantic aspects of the story.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable monster romance with a strong premise and a fun storyline. If you enjoy monster love interests, a heroine looking for a fresh start, and a romance with plenty of chemistry, this is definitely a book worth picking up.
Peony was such an interesting character to follow. She’s coming from a really difficult situation and is clearly looking for a fresh start and a chance to rebuild her life somewhere new. When the opportunity for a job comes through a relative, it feels like the perfect escape and a way for her to start over. I really enjoyed seeing her take that leap and try to create something better for herself.
And then we meet Rupert—the monster. His presence immediately adds this mysterious and slightly dangerous element to the story that makes it even more compelling. The dynamic between Peony and Rupert was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their interactions had tension, curiosity, and a growing attraction that made their scenes together really engaging.
Yes, the romance moved a bit quickly at times, but it still worked well within the story. Their connection felt fun and exciting to read, and the chemistry between Peony and Rupert was definitely spicy and full of energy. The author did a great job balancing the unusual monster element with the emotional and romantic aspects of the story.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable monster romance with a strong premise and a fun storyline. If you enjoy monster love interests, a heroine looking for a fresh start, and a romance with plenty of chemistry, this is definitely a book worth picking up.
Review of advance copy
Thank you Lyonne for the arc!
I so wanted to love this, but unfortunately it fell short for me. 😭
I really wish this wasn't marketed as a beauty and the beast retelling, bc the only thing it has on common is that the guy got turned into a monster.
Give me whimsy, damn it! Give me a ballroom dancing scene, singing furniture, and a big as hell library as a gift.
Beast got turned into one bc he was rude to a witch, and Rupert got turned into one bc he was stupid, greedy and desperate.
I kinda love that witch who turns wall street bros into monsters, though. They are an absolute legend 👑
Unfortunately I had trouble with a lot of Rupert's dialogue bc it came out clunky. I swear it's not because he's British, but there was one line that said:
"Until our time on this plane ends."
They weren't physically in a plane, so it's just plane of existence? I guess?
And the whole "stays a monster" part seemed kinda...idk
He didn't really have redemption in the way that beast does.
It felt like eating your cake and having it too.
"Oh no I'm horribly rich and a monster with a big 🐔 too."
I felt that Peony was a really inconsistently written character. She's all done with family one chapter and then the next she talks about how important they are to her and she wants a relationship with them?
Make up your mind, girl.
The drama felt really forced and could have easily been prevented. Some scenes felt rushed or shoehorned in around the smut.
Especially the latter half.
It felt like the smut was the priority, along with food and then the story was secondary.
It was a decent read, but unfortunately not super enjoyable for me.
I so wanted to love this, but unfortunately it fell short for me. 😭
I really wish this wasn't marketed as a beauty and the beast retelling, bc the only thing it has on common is that the guy got turned into a monster.
Give me whimsy, damn it! Give me a ballroom dancing scene, singing furniture, and a big as hell library as a gift.
Beast got turned into one bc he was rude to a witch, and Rupert got turned into one bc he was stupid, greedy and desperate.
I kinda love that witch who turns wall street bros into monsters, though. They are an absolute legend 👑
Unfortunately I had trouble with a lot of Rupert's dialogue bc it came out clunky. I swear it's not because he's British, but there was one line that said:
"Until our time on this plane ends."
They weren't physically in a plane, so it's just plane of existence? I guess?
And the whole "stays a monster" part seemed kinda...idk
He didn't really have redemption in the way that beast does.
It felt like eating your cake and having it too.
"Oh no I'm horribly rich and a monster with a big 🐔 too."
I felt that Peony was a really inconsistently written character. She's all done with family one chapter and then the next she talks about how important they are to her and she wants a relationship with them?
Make up your mind, girl.
The drama felt really forced and could have easily been prevented. Some scenes felt rushed or shoehorned in around the smut.
Especially the latter half.
It felt like the smut was the priority, along with food and then the story was secondary.
It was a decent read, but unfortunately not super enjoyable for me.
March 20, 2026
This story surprised me with it's tender emotion. Rupert is a gentle soul in an unfortunate situation, but it turns out maybe it's not so unfortunate. Peony sees him for exactly who he is at his core. She saw past his beastly form, and learned quickly the perks to a beast with a tender heart. I love how they connected with each other and got to know one another in the most wholesome and organic ways, cooking together, taking walks. Their story is tender, sweet and a little naughty. This little family with Rupert, Peony and their butler, Kellen will sink into your heart.
Cate Morrigan and Alex Kingsley are two fresh voices for me and I loved their rendition of Peony & Rupert. Alex’s British accent elevated Rupert’s disposition to one of elegance and refinement while channeling his inner beast in temperament. Alex was very impressive in her hesitance and fear showing Peony’s more reserved nature while truly coming alive in her more combative scenes. I really enjoyed their narration.
Cate Morrigan and Alex Kingsley are two fresh voices for me and I loved their rendition of Peony & Rupert. Alex’s British accent elevated Rupert’s disposition to one of elegance and refinement while channeling his inner beast in temperament. Alex was very impressive in her hesitance and fear showing Peony’s more reserved nature while truly coming alive in her more combative scenes. I really enjoyed their narration.
March 31, 2026
This book is like a four course meal for Modern Fantasy Fans. To start the appetizer is a well crafted story based loosely around the tale of the beauty and the beast, that stars characters who differ from each other and the originally interpretations by being employee and employer. The soup and salad are of course our lead characters, the hard working Peony (Main Female Lead) who is a house cleaner and the reclusive Rupert (Main Male Lead) Owner of the manor. Peony is leaving a pervious horrible relationship that leaves her homeless and looking for independence, she starts a new job with the help of her well off aunt cleaning the manor and cooking meals for it’s distinguished and distant by choice owner Rupert. Rupert is a wealthy shut in and who closed himself of from the world after becoming cursed by a mysterious old man after wishing for his arrogant avarice to be answered and is transformed into a horrid monster. Fearing how others will react to him he retreats into his himself and home and only interacts with is waiting butler and colleague from his past who helps him manage his affairs. Both complement each other wonderfully Peony be sweet loving and always pushing herself and others forward and Rupert caring and protective. The a main entree is the relationship between the characters growing and being their for each and being open about past hardships and mistakes that they wish to change. They are only human (for the most part) and but one wants to feel loved and appreciated and the other open and self with someone. The combined passion for cooking is great. And for dessert the erotic appetite of both characters that is more then appreciated. All in all this was a great read and look for more from the author in the future.
ARC Copy Provided review and feedbacks are my own
The Monster in the Manor
ARC READER REVIEW
ARC Copy Provided review and feedbacks are my own
The Monster in the Manor
ARC READER REVIEW
April 1, 2026
This was another fun read.
We have our human female who is looking for a fresh start. After she gets away from her controlling ex she is living out of his car. That is until her new employer finds her sleeping in said car in his woods. Rupert is a monster who was a man. His greed was too much for him and in gaining it all he gets changed physically into a being.
He is living in his home in the woods with a butler who is like a friend and his groundskeeper. We get to know his butler Kellen as we go along with this couple. Peony is there to help not only be the housekeeper and cook but a friend to both men.
We have our human female who is looking for a fresh start. After she gets away from her controlling ex she is living out of his car. That is until her new employer finds her sleeping in said car in his woods. Rupert is a monster who was a man. His greed was too much for him and in gaining it all he gets changed physically into a being.
He is living in his home in the woods with a butler who is like a friend and his groundskeeper. We get to know his butler Kellen as we go along with this couple. Peony is there to help not only be the housekeeper and cook but a friend to both men.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this interpretation of Beauty and the Beast!
**ARC Recieved**
**ARC Recieved**
March 10, 2026
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Spice: 3/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: F/M, beauty and the beast retelling, reclusive monster MMC, FMC hired as his housekeeper, slow burn, friends to lovers, food as a love language, tail play, grabbing him by the horns, characters with trauma, magical curse, communication through notes
CWs: domestic abuse (historical), parental abandonment, assault, kidnapping, gun violence
Kink: DP, tail play, cock warming
Synopsis:
Living out of her ex’s stollen vehicle was never in the plans, so when Peony’s aunt suggests she interview for a housekeeping position for a rich recluse, she jumps at the opportunity. Mr. Edgewood is a mysterious as his home, and although Peony wishes she could meet her employer, it’s hard to complain when she’s payed handsomely and found a friend in the manor’s other employer. Yet, that desire to meet him becomes overwhelming after they start a rather flirtatious friendship via notes.
Thoughts:
This romance is for all of us that desperately wanted Beast to stay a monster 😏
It’s no secret that I am a huge Lyonne Riley fan, in fact, I’d probably read her grocery list with glee at this point. So I was super excited to see she’d written a monstrous beauty and the beast retelling!
The best part of this romance, aside from the monster staying a beast, was their slow burn friends to lovers arc facilitated by flirty notes left for Peony. I super duper love the “food as a love langue” trope, and this was such a cute way to elevate it!!
Peony is a strong woman rebuilding after escaping an abusive relationship. I absolutely loved that she held fast to her dreams of being a chef, continued to find joy in the things she loved, and gave herself permission to want the monster. Rupert is a sweet monster with a bit of an animalistic side that was frankly, delicious. He’s such a caring softie, and even though he’s scared and doesn’t always make the right decisions, he has a huge heart.
Lastly, although the overall feel of this book is sweet and soft, the ending had me on the edge of my seat!!
Spice: 3/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: F/M, beauty and the beast retelling, reclusive monster MMC, FMC hired as his housekeeper, slow burn, friends to lovers, food as a love language, tail play, grabbing him by the horns, characters with trauma, magical curse, communication through notes
CWs: domestic abuse (historical), parental abandonment, assault, kidnapping, gun violence
Kink: DP, tail play, cock warming
Synopsis:
Living out of her ex’s stollen vehicle was never in the plans, so when Peony’s aunt suggests she interview for a housekeeping position for a rich recluse, she jumps at the opportunity. Mr. Edgewood is a mysterious as his home, and although Peony wishes she could meet her employer, it’s hard to complain when she’s payed handsomely and found a friend in the manor’s other employer. Yet, that desire to meet him becomes overwhelming after they start a rather flirtatious friendship via notes.
Thoughts:
This romance is for all of us that desperately wanted Beast to stay a monster 😏
It’s no secret that I am a huge Lyonne Riley fan, in fact, I’d probably read her grocery list with glee at this point. So I was super excited to see she’d written a monstrous beauty and the beast retelling!
The best part of this romance, aside from the monster staying a beast, was their slow burn friends to lovers arc facilitated by flirty notes left for Peony. I super duper love the “food as a love langue” trope, and this was such a cute way to elevate it!!
Peony is a strong woman rebuilding after escaping an abusive relationship. I absolutely loved that she held fast to her dreams of being a chef, continued to find joy in the things she loved, and gave herself permission to want the monster. Rupert is a sweet monster with a bit of an animalistic side that was frankly, delicious. He’s such a caring softie, and even though he’s scared and doesn’t always make the right decisions, he has a huge heart.
Lastly, although the overall feel of this book is sweet and soft, the ending had me on the edge of my seat!!
March 29, 2026
◇ Beauty and the Beast retelling
◇ Grumpy and sunshine
◇ Billionaire and maid
◇ Tail play 👀🌶️
There is no greater feeling than reading a book by a new to you author and then wanting to consume everything they’ve ever written like a goblin!! 😭😍
I got a copy of The Monster in the Manor as an ARC and here’s my honest review… GO READ IT IMMEDIATELY!! Potential spoilers ahead >>
I love monster romance. I love Beauty and the Beast. I too was devastated when Beast turned back into a man and Lyonne doesn’t break our hearts like that, our monster stays monstrous!
Rupert was cursed and boy did it make him one sour recluse. Hold up in his room, watching his shows, barely interacting with the world beyond his butler (the saint that is Kellen) until Peony comes into his life.
Peony was running from an abusive ex (check your triggers beautiful people) and had nothing but a blanket, a pillow, a few items of clothes, a shitty car and some cleaning supplies but she settled into Edgewood Manor like she was meant to be there.
Fate? Or just luck?
Lyonne writes in a way that makes you forget you’re reading.
I loved the pacing, I loved the story, I loved the healing, I loved the spice!! And boy was it spicy, I’m a sucker for tail play and everything was written perfectly. 😍
If you want some monster spice with all the feels, character growth, amazing side characters and scenes that will make you absolutely famished - because they both enjoy cooking, obviously 😏 then seriously go check this out. It’s available on KU right now.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Favourite quotes: “It doesn’t matter how he appears on the outside. I make a pact with myself right then that I’ll accept him no matter what. Mr. Edgewood deserves that dignity.”
“And faced with this pickle, I don’t know how to reconcile what Peony wants with what I fear.”
“I could simply melt right then and there in her arms. My sweet Peony, who cries over things like love, who holds me so sweetly as she rubs her face in my fur. But I have important things to do now, and ways to show her how I feel about her.”
◇ Grumpy and sunshine
◇ Billionaire and maid
◇ Tail play 👀🌶️
There is no greater feeling than reading a book by a new to you author and then wanting to consume everything they’ve ever written like a goblin!! 😭😍
I got a copy of The Monster in the Manor as an ARC and here’s my honest review… GO READ IT IMMEDIATELY!! Potential spoilers ahead >>
I love monster romance. I love Beauty and the Beast. I too was devastated when Beast turned back into a man and Lyonne doesn’t break our hearts like that, our monster stays monstrous!
Rupert was cursed and boy did it make him one sour recluse. Hold up in his room, watching his shows, barely interacting with the world beyond his butler (the saint that is Kellen) until Peony comes into his life.
Peony was running from an abusive ex (check your triggers beautiful people) and had nothing but a blanket, a pillow, a few items of clothes, a shitty car and some cleaning supplies but she settled into Edgewood Manor like she was meant to be there.
Fate? Or just luck?
Lyonne writes in a way that makes you forget you’re reading.
I loved the pacing, I loved the story, I loved the healing, I loved the spice!! And boy was it spicy, I’m a sucker for tail play and everything was written perfectly. 😍
If you want some monster spice with all the feels, character growth, amazing side characters and scenes that will make you absolutely famished - because they both enjoy cooking, obviously 😏 then seriously go check this out. It’s available on KU right now.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Favourite quotes: “It doesn’t matter how he appears on the outside. I make a pact with myself right then that I’ll accept him no matter what. Mr. Edgewood deserves that dignity.”
“And faced with this pickle, I don’t know how to reconcile what Peony wants with what I fear.”
“I could simply melt right then and there in her arms. My sweet Peony, who cries over things like love, who holds me so sweetly as she rubs her face in my fur. But I have important things to do now, and ways to show her how I feel about her.”
March 24, 2026
"I’m glad that to some degree, I can give her a safe place to land."
Beauty and the Beast retelling with a modern twist. Peony started working for the recluse billionaire Rupert, but she never saw him. Until one day, she did and they started a tentative friendship.
This was good till it hit 50% mark then it kinda went downhill from there till the point of no redemption.
Book not for me for the reasons here:
But please, I love Lyonne Riley especially her Trollkin Lovers series so don't get this review be a hindrance to reading her work.
Beauty and the Beast retelling with a modern twist. Peony started working for the recluse billionaire Rupert, but she never saw him. Until one day, she did and they started a tentative friendship.
This was good till it hit 50% mark then it kinda went downhill from there till the point of no redemption.
Book not for me for the reasons here:
But please, I love Lyonne Riley especially her Trollkin Lovers series so don't get this review be a hindrance to reading her work.
March 26, 2026
Ahh this book, I loved it
It was sweet and spicy and honestly just perfection. It gave beauty and the beast vibes but in a way that felt richer and more immersive, with that extra layer of intensity that made everything hit harder. And the spice… wow. The spice is very much present and accounted for, like it knew exactly when to show up and steal the scene 👀
The whole book felt like wrapping yourself in a warm fluffy blanket on a cold rainy day, coffee in hand, completely lost in something soft and comforting but still exciting enough to keep your heart racing. It had that perfect balance where you feel cozy one second and then completely invested the next.
And the food… I was hungry the entire time. Every description had me questioning my life choices because why am I sitting here with mac and cheese while these characters are out here creating absolute masterpieces 😅 I felt personally humbled. But honestly it just added to the charm, it made everything feel richer and more indulgent, like you were experiencing it all right alongside them.
I also really loved how the curse added that extra layer of tension and intrigue. It was not just romance for the sake of it, there was something at stake, something pulling everything tighter and making the connection feel even more meaningful. You could feel that push and pull the whole time and it kept me completely hooked.
This book is such a good mix of sweet, spicy, and exciting. It gives you comfort, tension, chemistry, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
I would 100% recommend this book, it had me completely spellbound and honestly… I am still under its curse ✨
It was sweet and spicy and honestly just perfection. It gave beauty and the beast vibes but in a way that felt richer and more immersive, with that extra layer of intensity that made everything hit harder. And the spice… wow. The spice is very much present and accounted for, like it knew exactly when to show up and steal the scene 👀
The whole book felt like wrapping yourself in a warm fluffy blanket on a cold rainy day, coffee in hand, completely lost in something soft and comforting but still exciting enough to keep your heart racing. It had that perfect balance where you feel cozy one second and then completely invested the next.
And the food… I was hungry the entire time. Every description had me questioning my life choices because why am I sitting here with mac and cheese while these characters are out here creating absolute masterpieces 😅 I felt personally humbled. But honestly it just added to the charm, it made everything feel richer and more indulgent, like you were experiencing it all right alongside them.
I also really loved how the curse added that extra layer of tension and intrigue. It was not just romance for the sake of it, there was something at stake, something pulling everything tighter and making the connection feel even more meaningful. You could feel that push and pull the whole time and it kept me completely hooked.
This book is such a good mix of sweet, spicy, and exciting. It gives you comfort, tension, chemistry, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
I would 100% recommend this book, it had me completely spellbound and honestly… I am still under its curse ✨
April 9, 2026
I love a good retelling! Somehow I didn’t even realize that’s what it was when it started (from the cover) but it became obvious early on. I found the characters to be less lovable than the original beauty and the beast, but they grew on me!
Our FMC’s backstory and (semi current story) draws you in from the beginning. Almost has a bit of thrilleresque feel to her development. (Though the book is definitely not thriller) but it draws you in and her character alone is a page turner just to see how she develops.
Rupert (the MMC) is mysterious and sulky. As is with many shut in rich types. But you get to the see “underneath the monster” with him quite quickly as well.
Honestly all books from Lyonne are a knockout. As with many of their other books, it’s a fast paced monster love story. You always have a wholesome but spicy time with her books and ive never been let down!
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Our FMC’s backstory and (semi current story) draws you in from the beginning. Almost has a bit of thrilleresque feel to her development. (Though the book is definitely not thriller) but it draws you in and her character alone is a page turner just to see how she develops.
Rupert (the MMC) is mysterious and sulky. As is with many shut in rich types. But you get to the see “underneath the monster” with him quite quickly as well.
Honestly all books from Lyonne are a knockout. As with many of their other books, it’s a fast paced monster love story. You always have a wholesome but spicy time with her books and ive never been let down!
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 13, 2026
an abusive ex, she’s homeless, hopeless and stranded. a reclusive billionaire hires her to cook and clean for his manor, but won’t show his face 👀
this was absolutely wonderful and may be my new favorite of lyonne’s. it was so sweet and cozy and brought me so much joy. i loved seeing peony being loved and cared for after the whirlwind of her last relationship. and rupert’s journey to love and self acceptance was beautiful. there were several challenges these characters had to face, and they conquered them with support and love.
beauty and the beast type romances have always been a favorite for me. i loved the disney film growing up, and alex flynn’s book beastly is what got me into reading in 2007 (it’s no wonder i love monster romance now) so this really hit home for me! felt like a warm hug, and i loved it so much.
thank you lyonne for having me on your ARC team
this was absolutely wonderful and may be my new favorite of lyonne’s. it was so sweet and cozy and brought me so much joy. i loved seeing peony being loved and cared for after the whirlwind of her last relationship. and rupert’s journey to love and self acceptance was beautiful. there were several challenges these characters had to face, and they conquered them with support and love.
beauty and the beast type romances have always been a favorite for me. i loved the disney film growing up, and alex flynn’s book beastly is what got me into reading in 2007 (it’s no wonder i love monster romance now) so this really hit home for me! felt like a warm hug, and i loved it so much.
thank you lyonne for having me on your ARC team
March 4, 2026
⭐️ARC Review⭐️
I really loved this book. It is a Beauty & the Beast retelling, modernized. Peony is trying to restart her life after escaping a toxic relationship when she is employed by billionaire recluse Rupert. It doesn’t take long for her to capture the hearts of the men in the house with her cuisine, and have Rupert coming out of his shell.
“Just your presence lifts my spirits.”
Though she has been taken advantage of in the past, Peony has a backbone. She may have also inspired some creative retribution for a scorned woman.
“Two slices of bread. A big dollop of mayo that I don’t bother to spread around. A piece of ham and a piece of cheese, all of it slapped onto a plate.”
I loved seeing Rupert & Peony grow and each other along the way. They really did bring out the best in each other.
I really loved this book. It is a Beauty & the Beast retelling, modernized. Peony is trying to restart her life after escaping a toxic relationship when she is employed by billionaire recluse Rupert. It doesn’t take long for her to capture the hearts of the men in the house with her cuisine, and have Rupert coming out of his shell.
“Just your presence lifts my spirits.”
Though she has been taken advantage of in the past, Peony has a backbone. She may have also inspired some creative retribution for a scorned woman.
“Two slices of bread. A big dollop of mayo that I don’t bother to spread around. A piece of ham and a piece of cheese, all of it slapped onto a plate.”
I loved seeing Rupert & Peony grow and each other along the way. They really did bring out the best in each other.
April 1, 2026
Thank you to Lyonne Riley for providing me with an arc.
This definitely was a slower start to a book than I normally read but I really loved it. This is a beauty and the beast inspired romance featuring an fmc who just escaped an abusive relationship and an mmc who was cursed when he made a bad deal. Both of them grow and learn how to adapt to each other and I loved their slow relationship. This still has plenty of spice it just is in the later half of the book. I really recommend this if you want a beauty and the beast inspired book where he does stay a beast and has a great relationship.
This definitely was a slower start to a book than I normally read but I really loved it. This is a beauty and the beast inspired romance featuring an fmc who just escaped an abusive relationship and an mmc who was cursed when he made a bad deal. Both of them grow and learn how to adapt to each other and I loved their slow relationship. This still has plenty of spice it just is in the later half of the book. I really recommend this if you want a beauty and the beast inspired book where he does stay a beast and has a great relationship.
March 30, 2026
I’m absolutely so obsessed with this book, the story was gripping from the moment I started reading. I am so lucky to have come across Lyonne Riley last year everything she writes is solid gold and the monster in the manor was no exception. I loved Rupert from the very beginning and Peony was such a dynamic character
I genuinely think I prefer this retelling over the beauty and the beast
I genuinely think I prefer this retelling over the beauty and the beast
April 1, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader Copy
Read this a while back but didn’t manage to write a review until now!
I like the beauty and the beast kind of retelling and the pacing was going well but it did slightly dragged out for me personally. Had a feeling Andy was going to come back and kidnapped her sooner or later, and he did 😂
I like the dynamic between Rupert and Peony, of course the smut was good. Rupert being self-conscious all the time of how he looks and Peony was always reassuring him.
However I wanted to know the details of the curse, like what that old man really said and how did the old man perform such magic? Was Rupert the only ‘monster’ in the world?
Overall, I’d say Monsters in the Manor was a fun read albeit short and I would recommend it to people who want a cute, domestic retelling of a sort of Beauty and the Beast.
Read this a while back but didn’t manage to write a review until now!
I like the beauty and the beast kind of retelling and the pacing was going well but it did slightly dragged out for me personally. Had a feeling Andy was going to come back and kidnapped her sooner or later, and he did 😂
I like the dynamic between Rupert and Peony, of course the smut was good. Rupert being self-conscious all the time of how he looks and Peony was always reassuring him.
However I wanted to know the details of the curse, like what that old man really said and how did the old man perform such magic? Was Rupert the only ‘monster’ in the world?
Overall, I’d say Monsters in the Manor was a fun read albeit short and I would recommend it to people who want a cute, domestic retelling of a sort of Beauty and the Beast.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2026
A very sweet retelling! I love Rupert and Peony!
April 12, 2026
a really sweet beauty and the beast retelling, which surprisingly turned into some very smutty smut!
March 20, 2026
Absolutely adorable read. I expect nothing less from Lyonne. I loved meeting all the characters. Peony and Rupert and Kellen all deserve happiness. The story just pulls you in and leaves you feeling warm and gooey. The story is a beauty and the beast retalling but done so you can relate. Everyone got the punishment they deserved while others got their happily ever after. Ever in a bad mood and Lyonnes books will have you in a good mood.
April 22, 2026
Liked most of it.
Lovely reimagining but the ending (and some other spots) weren't my jam.
Honestly the story started strong (even if I cringed at the early stupidity of using high beams in the fog) and had a good peak but personally I ended up gritting my teeth through the last few chapters. Could have ended it about ten chapters sooner and would have been great.
Lovely reimagining but the ending (and some other spots) weren't my jam.
Honestly the story started strong (even if I cringed at the early stupidity of using high beams in the fog) and had a good peak but personally I ended up gritting my teeth through the last few chapters. Could have ended it about ten chapters sooner and would have been great.
March 21, 2026
Thank you so much Lyonne Riley for sending me an ARC copy of your latest release! I think this might be my new favorite by her! This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a modern twist and I loved every second of it. We have Peony who is trying to get her life back on track after she leaves her abusive ex. She finds herself on Rupert's door step as his new housekeeper/cook. It was so sweet and almost felt delicate in a way seeing their friendship form just from the notes he leaves on the tray that she leaves his food on because he never leaves his wing of the manor. Then when you see how protective he gets of her! Oh my heart!
I also just really loved the found family between Peony, Rupert and Kellen the butler is so good too! This was amazing and I loved every second of it!
I also just really loved the found family between Peony, Rupert and Kellen the butler is so good too! This was amazing and I loved every second of it!
March 25, 2026
I was very very close to DNFing this one.
I'm really disappointed with this one. The first 50-65% was really good, albeit a bit slow. There was no clunky word vomit about feelings like there sometimes is, so I don't think the author is necessarily bad. (I think this is the first book from her that I've read?) I just didn't really like either character or the direction of the second half of the story.
For someone in an emotionally abusive relationship, she is really... blasé about her own physical and emotional safety. From sleeping at the discount store in the very beginning to jumping into a relationship with her boss (which is barely even addressed???) to driving an hour away from the house to grocery shop alone to telling someone who is still living in close proximity to her abuser what she's up to, it just felt really careless. It was definitely stressful to read about, and really frustrating when she kept making decisions that seemed directly counter to her situation. Plus her obsession with meeting with her dickhead aunt, then having the audacity to be upset when her reclusive new boyfriend won't meet her when she herself isn't sure she wants to meet her and deal with her oppression gossiping ways? Absolutely pissed me the fuck off and I started actively skimming from then on. Big fan of reading the first half of the first sentence of each paragraph. I'd have to guess I seriously skimmed the last 35%.
I'm happy for her that he got over himself enough to launch a rescue, but pissed that it took drastic measures. I'm pissed that he never ONCE brought up his very realistic and rational fear of being detained and vivisected by the government, and I'm pissed that the thought never even occurred to her that his reclusive tendencies had anything to do with a rational fear beyond just "I'm a monster to look at" when he's literally the government and military's wet dream, especially after the super healing. I don't know, I think just his whole existence just didn't fit the context. There's no other magic in the entire world and the police and hospital just let him go? No CIA? No homeland security agents? Nothing? Just paparazzi? It just felt bad on top of all the existing bad already.
I'm ranting at this point but as a silver lining, it means that it had enough potential to get me invested enough to be angry. The ideas were all there, the execution just needed a lot more workshopping, a few more early stage sanity checks, and maybe a sensitivity reader or two to bring up the whole hey, abused people might be more either a lot more skeptical or way easier to steamroll, and not just a bit juvenile and stubborn and uncommunicative like she was being.
I'm really disappointed with this one. The first 50-65% was really good, albeit a bit slow. There was no clunky word vomit about feelings like there sometimes is, so I don't think the author is necessarily bad. (I think this is the first book from her that I've read?) I just didn't really like either character or the direction of the second half of the story.
For someone in an emotionally abusive relationship, she is really... blasé about her own physical and emotional safety. From sleeping at the discount store in the very beginning to jumping into a relationship with her boss (which is barely even addressed???) to driving an hour away from the house to grocery shop alone to telling someone who is still living in close proximity to her abuser what she's up to, it just felt really careless. It was definitely stressful to read about, and really frustrating when she kept making decisions that seemed directly counter to her situation. Plus her obsession with meeting with her dickhead aunt, then having the audacity to be upset when her reclusive new boyfriend won't meet her when she herself isn't sure she wants to meet her and deal with her oppression gossiping ways? Absolutely pissed me the fuck off and I started actively skimming from then on. Big fan of reading the first half of the first sentence of each paragraph. I'd have to guess I seriously skimmed the last 35%.
I'm happy for her that he got over himself enough to launch a rescue, but pissed that it took drastic measures. I'm pissed that he never ONCE brought up his very realistic and rational fear of being detained and vivisected by the government, and I'm pissed that the thought never even occurred to her that his reclusive tendencies had anything to do with a rational fear beyond just "I'm a monster to look at" when he's literally the government and military's wet dream, especially after the super healing. I don't know, I think just his whole existence just didn't fit the context. There's no other magic in the entire world and the police and hospital just let him go? No CIA? No homeland security agents? Nothing? Just paparazzi? It just felt bad on top of all the existing bad already.
I'm ranting at this point but as a silver lining, it means that it had enough potential to get me invested enough to be angry. The ideas were all there, the execution just needed a lot more workshopping, a few more early stage sanity checks, and maybe a sensitivity reader or two to bring up the whole hey, abused people might be more either a lot more skeptical or way easier to steamroll, and not just a bit juvenile and stubborn and uncommunicative like she was being.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2026
4,5 stars ⭐️
Oh how I loved this beauty and the beast retelling. It was both sweet and (super) spicy, and had some suspense towards the end which I really liked!
Oh how I loved this beauty and the beast retelling. It was both sweet and (super) spicy, and had some suspense towards the end which I really liked!
March 20, 2026
Another smash hit from Lyonne 💖
This is quite possibly my new favourite Lyonne Riley book to date!
As with all her releases it is sweet and spicy 🌶️🥵 and full of monster romance goodness! That being said, while it is spicy 🥵, it is also emotional, dramatic and touches on themes of grief, abuse and worthlessness.
Rupert Edgeworth isolated himself from the world, since being cursed for his greed - forcing him into a monstrous form that sends most fleeing in terror. His only contact is with a close friend and his butler. This makes hiring help for his immense estate, extremely difficult, let alone making a friend or finding love. He had given up on ever finding someone to share his life with - disgusted with himself to the point he believed no one could ever find him charming. That is until Peony.
Peony is fleeing from an abusive relationship; cut off from the friends and family of before him. She seeks help from her rich great aunt, who believes she should find her own way, as it builds character. She does however recommend her to her reclusive neighbour, to become his new housekeeper and personal chef. Peony takes the job, keen to rebuild her life and create her own safe place in the world after years of terror. Romance is the very last thing on her mind, that is until her acerbic, recluse boss starts writing her sweet notes and leaving her gifts. She soon begins to wonder whether falling in love could be the answer she was looking for all along.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. This book features: . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 Beauty and the Beast Retelling
💜 Slow Burn
✨ Billionaire Romance
🥄 She Seduces Him with Food
💜 Grumpy/Sunshine
✨ Hidden Identity
🥄 He Stays a Monster
💜 Tail Play 😏
✨ Size Difference
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Potential Triggers . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 🍑play and 🍑 penetration
💜 Stretching and Suffering
✨ Emotional Abuse (ex)
🥄 Kidnapping
💜 Hostage Situation
✨ Gun Violence
🥄 Life-Threatening Injury
💜 Hospital Scene
This book was wonderful!
I was obsessed with the dynamic between Rupert and Peony - the romance was top tier and their journey to each other and finding themselves again was emotional and well-thought out.
What I didn’t expect, but was also delighted with, was the cooking and food references! Both characters are big foodies, Peony more so as a former chef. I loved the menu planning and descriptions made me ravenous 😋😋
Rupert was the perfect, grumpy hermit. While both character go through significant growth in this story, Rupert’s feels the most significant. He goes from being isolated, self-loathing and slightly selfish to a man changed. He would do anything and be anything for Peony and I was OBSESSED. Particularly her ham sandwich torture.
And Peony is an absolute delight - she is sweet and soft and SO hopeful despite the trauma and pain she has been through in her life. She also doesn’t let Rupert get away with anything - determined to never let a man control her or disappoint her again. I love when a fmc holds a man accountable!
And I definitely cannot talk about this book without mentioning Kellen. He was an absolute delight and I loved how much he cared for both Rupert and Peony. The sarcasm was immensely enjoyable and I was so happy that he also had a HEA.
This is my fave Lyonne book yet, potentially displacing Bred by the Minotaur (which if you don’t know - is a MASSIVE deal). I highly recommend to anyone looking for a monster romance with a slightly more “real world” feel, packed with spice, drama and fluffy little moments. Perfect for all the little girls who were once disappointed when the Beast turned human again.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Playlist. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 Beauty and the Beast by Céline Dion
💜 My Heart by Paramore
✨ Falling by Harry Styles
🥄 I Wanna Be Yours by Arctic Monkeys
💜 Lose Control by Teddy Swims
✨ Human by Christina Perri
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Fave Quotes. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄”And something about the new housekeeper has stirred me up, though I don’t know if my temper is what’s at issue. Her presence has changed things noticeably, just since she stepped inside the front door two days ago. The house feels more alive under my feet.”
💜 “What I find most interesting when I leave is how accustomed I’d grown to the scent of him, even for just the few hours I cleaned his living space. It’s spicy and musky, like cinnamon and leather mixed together, with a tang of something unique I can’t quite place. It reminds me of what a field smells like in winter, and I wonder if it’s a scent he uses.”
✨”With it, I can pick out Ms. Austin’s scent all around. It’s everywhere she touched, everywhere she lingered, and it is entrancing. To say it “smelled like lavender” would be an insult to this scent, something so distinctly feminine. It fills up my nostrils, and strangely, a shudder ripples through me all the way down to my groin.”
🥄”Yes, Mr. Edgewood is strange, but there’s also a kindness in him that’s becoming evident to me.”
💜 “It’s odd how much he’s consumed my thoughts, being someone I’ve never met.”
✨ “I can’t believe she, beautiful Peony, is kissing me. Have I died? Is this heaven? How long has it been since I touched another person this way, bare skin on bare skin?”
🥄 ““So you’re kind of like… a virgin?” I stare at her. What a thing to say. But at the same time, I think she’s right. “I suppose so.” I curl my fingers into a fist to hide my claws. “It’s all new to me in this body.””
💜 “Even after we say goodnight, my nerve endings are on high alert. The video reel of Peony and I kissing plays on repeat in my mind, the way her lips gave so easily to me, how she clutched my fur as if she might get washed away. I want to hold on to that moment forever, in case it never happens again.”
✨”“Peony,” he says, simply thrusting in shallowly. “You are marvelous. You’re taking me so well—I’m proud of you.” He kisses my lips and whispers against them, “You mean the world to me.””
🥄”I wonder how long she’ll let me keep her. I want to hope for forever, but I don’t know what she wants or needs after the life she escaped.”
💜 “I know what I want. I want this, forever, until we both get old and die. Now I simply need to convince Peony that she wants it, too.”
✨”Every day with Peony is better than the previous one. She makes my life full and whole, every part of me sated just by being in her presence. I love how my little flower moves through the world, never assuming, always open with her love, and surprisingly tolerant of my… oddities.”
🥄”I want to consume her so I never have to live without her. So she can never leave me. But it’s true what they say: sometimes when you love something, you have to let it go.”
💜”“You know, Rupert,” she says in a sleepy voice, “I think everything turned out the way it was supposed to.” I peer down at her, unsure of what she means. “The old man cursing you. Andy.” I get the soap and start cleaning her as she talks. “All these difficult, awful things happened to us, but ultimately, they brought us together. And now I get to spend the rest of my life with the best husband I could’ve asked for.”
This is quite possibly my new favourite Lyonne Riley book to date!
As with all her releases it is sweet and spicy 🌶️🥵 and full of monster romance goodness! That being said, while it is spicy 🥵, it is also emotional, dramatic and touches on themes of grief, abuse and worthlessness.
Rupert Edgeworth isolated himself from the world, since being cursed for his greed - forcing him into a monstrous form that sends most fleeing in terror. His only contact is with a close friend and his butler. This makes hiring help for his immense estate, extremely difficult, let alone making a friend or finding love. He had given up on ever finding someone to share his life with - disgusted with himself to the point he believed no one could ever find him charming. That is until Peony.
Peony is fleeing from an abusive relationship; cut off from the friends and family of before him. She seeks help from her rich great aunt, who believes she should find her own way, as it builds character. She does however recommend her to her reclusive neighbour, to become his new housekeeper and personal chef. Peony takes the job, keen to rebuild her life and create her own safe place in the world after years of terror. Romance is the very last thing on her mind, that is until her acerbic, recluse boss starts writing her sweet notes and leaving her gifts. She soon begins to wonder whether falling in love could be the answer she was looking for all along.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. This book features: . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 Beauty and the Beast Retelling
💜 Slow Burn
✨ Billionaire Romance
🥄 She Seduces Him with Food
💜 Grumpy/Sunshine
✨ Hidden Identity
🥄 He Stays a Monster
💜 Tail Play 😏
✨ Size Difference
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Potential Triggers . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 🍑play and 🍑 penetration
💜 Stretching and Suffering
✨ Emotional Abuse (ex)
🥄 Kidnapping
💜 Hostage Situation
✨ Gun Violence
🥄 Life-Threatening Injury
💜 Hospital Scene
This book was wonderful!
I was obsessed with the dynamic between Rupert and Peony - the romance was top tier and their journey to each other and finding themselves again was emotional and well-thought out.
What I didn’t expect, but was also delighted with, was the cooking and food references! Both characters are big foodies, Peony more so as a former chef. I loved the menu planning and descriptions made me ravenous 😋😋
Rupert was the perfect, grumpy hermit. While both character go through significant growth in this story, Rupert’s feels the most significant. He goes from being isolated, self-loathing and slightly selfish to a man changed. He would do anything and be anything for Peony and I was OBSESSED. Particularly her ham sandwich torture.
And Peony is an absolute delight - she is sweet and soft and SO hopeful despite the trauma and pain she has been through in her life. She also doesn’t let Rupert get away with anything - determined to never let a man control her or disappoint her again. I love when a fmc holds a man accountable!
And I definitely cannot talk about this book without mentioning Kellen. He was an absolute delight and I loved how much he cared for both Rupert and Peony. The sarcasm was immensely enjoyable and I was so happy that he also had a HEA.
This is my fave Lyonne book yet, potentially displacing Bred by the Minotaur (which if you don’t know - is a MASSIVE deal). I highly recommend to anyone looking for a monster romance with a slightly more “real world” feel, packed with spice, drama and fluffy little moments. Perfect for all the little girls who were once disappointed when the Beast turned human again.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Playlist. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄 Beauty and the Beast by Céline Dion
💜 My Heart by Paramore
✨ Falling by Harry Styles
🥄 I Wanna Be Yours by Arctic Monkeys
💜 Lose Control by Teddy Swims
✨ Human by Christina Perri
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Fave Quotes. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🥄”And something about the new housekeeper has stirred me up, though I don’t know if my temper is what’s at issue. Her presence has changed things noticeably, just since she stepped inside the front door two days ago. The house feels more alive under my feet.”
💜 “What I find most interesting when I leave is how accustomed I’d grown to the scent of him, even for just the few hours I cleaned his living space. It’s spicy and musky, like cinnamon and leather mixed together, with a tang of something unique I can’t quite place. It reminds me of what a field smells like in winter, and I wonder if it’s a scent he uses.”
✨”With it, I can pick out Ms. Austin’s scent all around. It’s everywhere she touched, everywhere she lingered, and it is entrancing. To say it “smelled like lavender” would be an insult to this scent, something so distinctly feminine. It fills up my nostrils, and strangely, a shudder ripples through me all the way down to my groin.”
🥄”Yes, Mr. Edgewood is strange, but there’s also a kindness in him that’s becoming evident to me.”
💜 “It’s odd how much he’s consumed my thoughts, being someone I’ve never met.”
✨ “I can’t believe she, beautiful Peony, is kissing me. Have I died? Is this heaven? How long has it been since I touched another person this way, bare skin on bare skin?”
🥄 ““So you’re kind of like… a virgin?” I stare at her. What a thing to say. But at the same time, I think she’s right. “I suppose so.” I curl my fingers into a fist to hide my claws. “It’s all new to me in this body.””
💜 “Even after we say goodnight, my nerve endings are on high alert. The video reel of Peony and I kissing plays on repeat in my mind, the way her lips gave so easily to me, how she clutched my fur as if she might get washed away. I want to hold on to that moment forever, in case it never happens again.”
✨”“Peony,” he says, simply thrusting in shallowly. “You are marvelous. You’re taking me so well—I’m proud of you.” He kisses my lips and whispers against them, “You mean the world to me.””
🥄”I wonder how long she’ll let me keep her. I want to hope for forever, but I don’t know what she wants or needs after the life she escaped.”
💜 “I know what I want. I want this, forever, until we both get old and die. Now I simply need to convince Peony that she wants it, too.”
✨”Every day with Peony is better than the previous one. She makes my life full and whole, every part of me sated just by being in her presence. I love how my little flower moves through the world, never assuming, always open with her love, and surprisingly tolerant of my… oddities.”
🥄”I want to consume her so I never have to live without her. So she can never leave me. But it’s true what they say: sometimes when you love something, you have to let it go.”
💜”“You know, Rupert,” she says in a sleepy voice, “I think everything turned out the way it was supposed to.” I peer down at her, unsure of what she means. “The old man cursing you. Andy.” I get the soap and start cleaning her as she talks. “All these difficult, awful things happened to us, but ultimately, they brought us together. And now I get to spend the rest of my life with the best husband I could’ve asked for.”
Read
May 3, 20264.5 stars to be exact.
E-ARC read and review!
I enjoyed this much more than I anticipated! I’m not normally one for monster romance but I was truly down bad for this.
Beauty and the Beast retelling but make it SPICY🥵.
Rupert is a hell of a man (monster?) you get what I mean. The sweetest, tortured soul who just wants to love and be loved in the same way. That’s probably literally why Peony was put on this earth, to make him happy.
Peony has tried so hard to move on from what her ex put her through, so when her aunt lands her a job to clean and cook for a reclusive billionaire, how could she say no? She’s good at cleaning, and extraordinary in a kitchen.
Peony and Rupert melted away whatever reservations I had about monster romance very quickly. The spicy scenes were SPICY. The sweet and tender moments of vulnerability were perfect. I was so engulfed in this story. I cannot wait to read it again.
E-ARC read and review!
I enjoyed this much more than I anticipated! I’m not normally one for monster romance but I was truly down bad for this.
Beauty and the Beast retelling but make it SPICY🥵.
Rupert is a hell of a man (monster?) you get what I mean. The sweetest, tortured soul who just wants to love and be loved in the same way. That’s probably literally why Peony was put on this earth, to make him happy.
Peony has tried so hard to move on from what her ex put her through, so when her aunt lands her a job to clean and cook for a reclusive billionaire, how could she say no? She’s good at cleaning, and extraordinary in a kitchen.
Peony and Rupert melted away whatever reservations I had about monster romance very quickly. The spicy scenes were SPICY. The sweet and tender moments of vulnerability were perfect. I was so engulfed in this story. I cannot wait to read it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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