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Rooksgrave Manor #2
Eleanor: A New Beginning
Forced to choose between an unhappy betrothal and marriage or becoming penniless and destitute, Eleanor Teague jumps at the chance for something more.
Madame Mortimer and her Rooksgrave Manor are everything Eleanor’s friend, Esther, promised they would be. Living in the manor unlocks primal urges even Eleanor herself hadn’t realized she possessed--and she thought herself well aware of her own appetites.
Eleanor finds herself keeping company with Sterling Cawley, a ghostly man with unique desires, as well a demonic being so utterly different from any human man that she may never be the same. But it’s not until Madame Mortimer enables Eleanor’s late fiance, Leopold, to visit her chambers that she realizes exactly how much the manor is capable of. Why would she ever want to leave?
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Eleanor: A New Beginning is the first in a new, fast-burn, reverse harem series by Penelope Wren. This thrilling, yet steamy novella is written in the style of gothic romance and penny dreadfuls.
Madame Mortimer and her Rooksgrave Manor are everything Eleanor’s friend, Esther, promised they would be. Living in the manor unlocks primal urges even Eleanor herself hadn’t realized she possessed--and she thought herself well aware of her own appetites.
Eleanor finds herself keeping company with Sterling Cawley, a ghostly man with unique desires, as well a demonic being so utterly different from any human man that she may never be the same. But it’s not until Madame Mortimer enables Eleanor’s late fiance, Leopold, to visit her chambers that she realizes exactly how much the manor is capable of. Why would she ever want to leave?
=======================================================================
Eleanor: A New Beginning is the first in a new, fast-burn, reverse harem series by Penelope Wren. This thrilling, yet steamy novella is written in the style of gothic romance and penny dreadfuls.
- GenresRomance
72 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2018
15 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Wren
6 books33 followersPenelope Wren writes steamy, spellbinding romance full of sharp heroines, dangerously attractive men, and emotionally devastating storylines that make you scream into your pillow (in the best way). She has a tendency to name her characters like they’re auditioning for a goth indie band and delights in crafting tension-soaked slow burns with teeth.
She lives in the U.S. with her partner, their three children, and three deeply weird cats: Coco, Rat, and Fig. When she’s not writing, she’s pretending she’s a finalist on Great British Bake Off, thrifting for haunted dolls and offbeat decor, or being her most authentic, unfiltered self.
Her books range from romantasy epics to steamy paranormal 'why choose' romances, always with heart, heat, and high emotional stakes. You can find her across social media @PenelopeWrenAuthor or subscribe to her newsletter for sneak peeks, exclusive content, and unhinged baking updates.
She lives in the U.S. with her partner, their three children, and three deeply weird cats: Coco, Rat, and Fig. When she’s not writing, she’s pretending she’s a finalist on Great British Bake Off, thrifting for haunted dolls and offbeat decor, or being her most authentic, unfiltered self.
Her books range from romantasy epics to steamy paranormal 'why choose' romances, always with heart, heat, and high emotional stakes. You can find her across social media @PenelopeWrenAuthor or subscribe to her newsletter for sneak peeks, exclusive content, and unhinged baking updates.
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January 29, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/29/2019)! 🎁
October 14, 2018
My rating: ❤❤❤❤❤of 5!
Length: 68 pages
Published: the 19th of October 2018.
Written by: Penelope Wren
Series: The Rooksgrave Manor Series
Source: Free copy generously provided by the author.
Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to ARC read this book for Penelope Wren, who generously sent me a free copy of her book, in exchange for my honest review.
I think I have just about read any and all of Penelope's books and honestly, it's been a bumpy ride. Some of the books have been great, others have to me felt superficial and rushed. However, with Eleanor Penelope's writing take new heights. This book is so honest, raw, filthy and purely amazing!
What I like the most about this story is the world building and heroine.
The story takes place in England, it what seems like a mix of the Victorian times with a hint of modern. What makes it feel modern to me, is the fact that the men are focused on Eleanor's pleasure. For them it's equally important that she enjoys herself through their time together, whereas in olden times women were just a tool for men's pleasure. Eleanor starts out as a timid girl who's very insecure of her place in life. However, in the space of 68 pages she's growing more secure of herself, her needs and wants and her place in life. Which truly is amazing to read about!
If I had to critique anything, and this is only nitpicking; it would be the fact that the setting is in England, the characters use popular and wellknown English phrases. Yet, the spelling and grammar is US based. This makes a lot of sense as Penelope Wren is US based. And to be fair this doesn't take any focus from the story, which is why I'm not letting my rating affect it.
Length: 68 pages
Published: the 19th of October 2018.
Written by: Penelope Wren
Series: The Rooksgrave Manor Series
Source: Free copy generously provided by the author.
Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to ARC read this book for Penelope Wren, who generously sent me a free copy of her book, in exchange for my honest review.
I think I have just about read any and all of Penelope's books and honestly, it's been a bumpy ride. Some of the books have been great, others have to me felt superficial and rushed. However, with Eleanor Penelope's writing take new heights. This book is so honest, raw, filthy and purely amazing!
What I like the most about this story is the world building and heroine.
The story takes place in England, it what seems like a mix of the Victorian times with a hint of modern. What makes it feel modern to me, is the fact that the men are focused on Eleanor's pleasure. For them it's equally important that she enjoys herself through their time together, whereas in olden times women were just a tool for men's pleasure. Eleanor starts out as a timid girl who's very insecure of her place in life. However, in the space of 68 pages she's growing more secure of herself, her needs and wants and her place in life. Which truly is amazing to read about!
If I had to critique anything, and this is only nitpicking; it would be the fact that the setting is in England, the characters use popular and wellknown English phrases. Yet, the spelling and grammar is US based. This makes a lot of sense as Penelope Wren is US based. And to be fair this doesn't take any focus from the story, which is why I'm not letting my rating affect it.
Do you like Reverse Harem? Paranormal romance? Do you like to read about different beings? Let’s talk in the comments!
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January 16, 2023
I really enjoyed being in this world again, seeing Eleanor's story! I doubt we'll get more, given how the series was expanded into Tempting Monsters, but it was a great read!
October 15, 2018
So I have to confess that I did not read the description for this book, just simply accepted the ARC opportunity when I received the email.
As the book started I was intrigued, confused, and slightly worried. A young lady of class from, what I am assuming, the 1800’s in England does not adhere to the strict societal norms of that time and has taken many lovers in her short life. She finds herself alone and destitute after the death of her family as well as the death of the man she loved. A friend of hers tells her about her “job” at Rooksgrave, which she readily agrees to give a shot since the other option of marrying a man she didn’t want was pretty much not ok with her.
Here is where I was confused. A woman whose past included a titled father and was rich is ready to accept being a whore? I didn’t know where this was going. But it was definitely intriguing so continue reading I did.
I really can’t say too much about the house or the “guests” without spoiling the heck out of the book so suffice to say, things are no where near normal....or human.
Basically, if you don’t like nonhuman interactions then don’t read the book. It is right there in the book description so don’t complain if you read it and don’t like it. And if you are an idiot like I am don’t blame the author for your own stupidity.
My thoughts are this, I find myself wanting more more more. The gentleman that the heroine of this tale are involved with are more than I could have hoped for. They are sweet and thoughtful and, yes, sexy. I am pleasantly surprised and pleased and want to read part 2 asap.
As the book started I was intrigued, confused, and slightly worried. A young lady of class from, what I am assuming, the 1800’s in England does not adhere to the strict societal norms of that time and has taken many lovers in her short life. She finds herself alone and destitute after the death of her family as well as the death of the man she loved. A friend of hers tells her about her “job” at Rooksgrave, which she readily agrees to give a shot since the other option of marrying a man she didn’t want was pretty much not ok with her.
Here is where I was confused. A woman whose past included a titled father and was rich is ready to accept being a whore? I didn’t know where this was going. But it was definitely intriguing so continue reading I did.
I really can’t say too much about the house or the “guests” without spoiling the heck out of the book so suffice to say, things are no where near normal....or human.
Basically, if you don’t like nonhuman interactions then don’t read the book. It is right there in the book description so don’t complain if you read it and don’t like it. And if you are an idiot like I am don’t blame the author for your own stupidity.
My thoughts are this, I find myself wanting more more more. The gentleman that the heroine of this tale are involved with are more than I could have hoped for. They are sweet and thoughtful and, yes, sexy. I am pleasantly surprised and pleased and want to read part 2 asap.
October 19, 2018
Be prepared....
I rarely, if ever, give a five star review (I usually have one or two small points that keep me from giving the highest level of praise), however the book Eleanor has not only surpassed my expectations, it left me begging for the next installment.
My taste in books is varied, but lately I have been straying towards the more out of the norm/non-traditional options and Eleanor delivers like none other I've read.
The writing is well done, the story line is thought provoking and the sexual content could make anyone fan themselves.
The writer does warn that one of the intimate scenes is somewhat out of the norm, but wow did she make it worth reading that chapter.... (if you need just a quick Rev up skip to chapter five first.... Thank me later)
Overall the only downside is that I have to wait for the next book....seriously is there a way I could go ahead and have that now?
I rarely, if ever, give a five star review (I usually have one or two small points that keep me from giving the highest level of praise), however the book Eleanor has not only surpassed my expectations, it left me begging for the next installment.
My taste in books is varied, but lately I have been straying towards the more out of the norm/non-traditional options and Eleanor delivers like none other I've read.
The writing is well done, the story line is thought provoking and the sexual content could make anyone fan themselves.
The writer does warn that one of the intimate scenes is somewhat out of the norm, but wow did she make it worth reading that chapter.... (if you need just a quick Rev up skip to chapter five first.... Thank me later)
Overall the only downside is that I have to wait for the next book....seriously is there a way I could go ahead and have that now?
October 16, 2018
The book is exceptional. The story is so intriguing for the start and it always kept me on my toes as to what would happen next. Loved the setting because it set the mood of a spooky and elaborate story. Having not read many stories simialr to this one it made me want to explore more. Eleanor is a likable and sympathetic character to me because throughout the book I was wondering whether I would choose that route in her place. Also how I would react to what was going on with her in the beginning if I was her friend.
The parts in the manor were steamy and even if i haven't imagined myself reading anything like that I am happy I decided to become an ARC reader for it. The opportunity to read the book was appreciated and I hope it get the chance to experience it again with any other stories.
The parts in the manor were steamy and even if i haven't imagined myself reading anything like that I am happy I decided to become an ARC reader for it. The opportunity to read the book was appreciated and I hope it get the chance to experience it again with any other stories.
October 20, 2018
I received this book as an ARC in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed this novel a lot! The main character, Eleanor, was well developed (for the length of the novel, at least) and enough was said about other characters to leave me wanting to know more. There was minimal plot in this installment, but there were enough dangling tidbits to keep me interested in the rest of the series when it comes.
The steamy scenes were VERY steamy, whew! Wren writes them very well and they will be thoroughly enjoyed by anyone who likes paranormal romance. She hinted about a particular tryst that I am very much hoping will happen in the later books! (A trip to the lake, anyone?)
In short, I liked the erotica and was intrigued by the story and would like to see it continue. Looking forward to the next one!
I enjoyed this novel a lot! The main character, Eleanor, was well developed (for the length of the novel, at least) and enough was said about other characters to leave me wanting to know more. There was minimal plot in this installment, but there were enough dangling tidbits to keep me interested in the rest of the series when it comes.
The steamy scenes were VERY steamy, whew! Wren writes them very well and they will be thoroughly enjoyed by anyone who likes paranormal romance. She hinted about a particular tryst that I am very much hoping will happen in the later books! (A trip to the lake, anyone?)
In short, I liked the erotica and was intrigued by the story and would like to see it continue. Looking forward to the next one!
October 21, 2018
First off, thank you to the author, Penelope Wren, who sent me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Eleanor: Book 1 is the first in a new, fast-burn, reverse harem series by Penelope Wren. This thrilling, yet steamy novella is written in the style of gothic romance and penny dreadfuls.
This book honestly wasn't quite what I was expecting. I knew it sounded like something I'd be interested in, but wasn't sure I'd fall in love with it, yet here I am... I really enjoyed this story! I wanted it to be longer. I am happy this is going to be a series. Its sexy and leaves you wanting more. This story is different, well written, and is a great escape from your day. Can't wait for the next one!!
Eleanor: Book 1 is the first in a new, fast-burn, reverse harem series by Penelope Wren. This thrilling, yet steamy novella is written in the style of gothic romance and penny dreadfuls.
This book honestly wasn't quite what I was expecting. I knew it sounded like something I'd be interested in, but wasn't sure I'd fall in love with it, yet here I am... I really enjoyed this story! I wanted it to be longer. I am happy this is going to be a series. Its sexy and leaves you wanting more. This story is different, well written, and is a great escape from your day. Can't wait for the next one!!
October 14, 2018
This is a different and unique type of story. It's very well written and takes place in a previous era, but it's not stuffy and as rigid as some "historical" era books are. The attention to detail and emotion is extensive and well written, but not overwhelmingly or underwhelmingly so. Eleanor is an amazing woman with a very large capacity to show her heart. She followed the path she knew was vest for her and sticks by it. All while building a close friendship with her boss and "landlord" Madame. A little sad to hit a cliffhanger, but I know it will be worth waiting to see what happens in book two.
October 14, 2018
Eleanor finds herself keeping company with Sterling Cawley, a ghostly man with unique desires, as well a demonic being so utterly different from any human man that she may never be the same. But it’s not until Madame Mortimer enables Eleanor’s late fiance, Leopold, to visit her chambers that she realizes exactly how much the manor is capable of. Loved book two in the Rooksgrave manor series . Can’t wait to find out what happens in book 3. The story flows the characters are amazing and it’s well written. You won’t be disappointed.
October 19, 2018
Eleanor is certainly not your regular paranormal story. It takes you into a new and fascinating world of Rooksgrave Manor. New types of characters are introduced that are rarely ever seen. Each one given such a wonderful, kind personality despite their otherwise unusual or terrifying looks. It appears that the ones that look like monsters might not be the true monsters after all. Can’t wait for the next in this series to meet more unusual intriguing characters and follow their experiences.
October 19, 2018
This was, dare I say, a delightful morsel of an escape from the day. A quick tease to awaken the senses. Sweet and delicate in the most surprising of ways. I was easily able to picture this fiction as reality; a rare feat indeed. I felt as if I was transported to a by-gone era and able to sneak a peek behind the veil of what truly could have transpired during that period. An utterly charming composition in which I am anxiously awaiting another treat.
October 22, 2018
Eleanor is not a typical paranormal story. It was a short story that left me wanting the next installment yesterday. Eleanor ends up penniless and after a visit from a friend has two options... marry a man she doesn't love or move to Rooksgrave. At Rooksgrave she meets a few men/creatures and things get hot fast! It was an amazing read that was written well and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
October 15, 2018
This was my first story by Penelope Wren and it didn't disappoint. It is a quick read at 68 pages, but once I started I didn't want to put it down. It's quite hot and steamy, but not in the traditional sense. Eleanor's clients are different to most, being either dead or non-human. Eleanor takes it all in her stride. Well worth the read if you are looking for something short, gothic and steamy!
October 16, 2018
Absolutely loved this story. This is Book 1 of Eleanors story but in series it's book 2. This story is hot!!! I would say erotic paranormal in a way. So if you don't like erotic with non human then not the story for you. I seriously cannot wait for the next story. It's is a short story so I wish it was longer. Otherwise I loved it!!! And can't wait for next story!!!
October 23, 2018
While I enjoyed the story it didn't hold my interest the way I wanted it to. And while the characters were interesting I also found them alittle flat or 2 dimensional (this may be done to the fact its a short story and I don't feel Penelope gave herself the space to really do the characters justice.)
The sex is hot and the story enjoyable, just not something I'll be putting on my reread list.
The sex is hot and the story enjoyable, just not something I'll be putting on my reread list.
January 29, 2024
I missed Rooksgrave manor
I really wish the author did another series set in this world, like starting with another girl.
This book was a smutty and very short return to Madame Mortimer's domain.
I like it more for the nostalgia than the plot. A lot was left unfinished between all the characters.
The smut was awesome though.
I really wish the author did another series set in this world, like starting with another girl.
This book was a smutty and very short return to Madame Mortimer's domain.
I like it more for the nostalgia than the plot. A lot was left unfinished between all the characters.
The smut was awesome though.
October 13, 2018
Wow, just finished reading Eleanor and may I just say, I’m already anticipating her next adventure. While short, this book was long enough to get me want more. So hot. It’s not a book for everyone, but for me, it was perfect.
October 16, 2018
If you want to read a book with amazing sex this is the book for you. The only thing I'm sad about it is how short it is. But since this is to be a series of short stories I'm ok with it. Get ready for some great steamy time.
October 18, 2018
What an amazing short read!! I can’t wait to see what happens with the lake. That was the most exciting part!! I’m also so happy that this is going to be a series. It’s sexy and intriguing and I can’t wait to continue reading!!
October 20, 2018
Interesting
What an interesting take on a destitute lady. When Eleanor loses her family and her fiance she is left with nothing. What is a girl to do? She starts her life over at Rooksgrave Manor.
What an interesting take on a destitute lady. When Eleanor loses her family and her fiance she is left with nothing. What is a girl to do? She starts her life over at Rooksgrave Manor.
November 13, 2018
I love this book
The setting, the storyline, and I can’t wait to see how the characters develop! Both of these books have given me something to think about while at work when I have a chance to let my mind decompress. I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on the next one!
The setting, the storyline, and I can’t wait to see how the characters develop! Both of these books have given me something to think about while at work when I have a chance to let my mind decompress. I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on the next one!
October 16, 2018
Fast read I truly enjoyed that left me wanting more. The book truly didn't disappoint me kept me intrigued from start to finish.
October 18, 2018
This book was a very fun fast read. I finished it in one sitting. The plot is light hearted and steamy leaving you craving more.
October 22, 2018
I loved the creativity of the author. Such unique characters along with the steam factor made for one quick hot read! Steam 10/10 * Sweet 8/10 * RH* 1st POV * Cliffhanger
October 23, 2018
Elenore, choices a unique life of her own over going the traditional route of an arranged marriage. If you enjoy paranormal (not your traditional shifter/vampire) romance you will enjoy this book.
April 5, 2019
Meh.
I can't get past the beginning, it's that bad. It's a real shame, cuz it could have been a good story.
I can't get past the beginning, it's that bad. It's a real shame, cuz it could have been a good story.
October 20, 2018
Eleanor
Wow! This book was amazing. Eleanor was left with 2 options and the one she took left me intrigued. As the story continued unfold I was completely sucked in and I couldn't put this book down. This was a short story that ended too soon. I cant I until the next installment.
Wow! This book was amazing. Eleanor was left with 2 options and the one she took left me intrigued. As the story continued unfold I was completely sucked in and I couldn't put this book down. This was a short story that ended too soon. I cant I until the next installment.
October 20, 2018
Ghosts and creatures galore
This book was so far from the norm that I loved it even more. It's not for someone with a closed mind. Its a short read, finished within an hour but its steamy! Cliffhanger at the end so I hope for more at a later time!
This book was so far from the norm that I loved it even more. It's not for someone with a closed mind. Its a short read, finished within an hour but its steamy! Cliffhanger at the end so I hope for more at a later time!
June 3, 2023
I love this SO MUCH! I wish it had been longer and I wish there was a follow up to the story in the works, but it isn’t going to happen.
I’m so in love with this world and I can’t wait to read the last book in the series in July.
I’m so in love with this world and I can’t wait to read the last book in the series in July.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews