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Penelope's Passion
1816 - London
After her mother's death, Penelope Wood's hope of opening a bakery falls victim to the real need to support herself. When four retired courtesans present her with a temporary yet lucrative path back to her dream, she wants to hear more. Attending the School of Enlightenment, participating in a Virgin Auction, and becoming a courtesan all sound feasible. The most important rule--do not fall in love.
Lord Michael Slade, heir to the Earl of Mansfield, loves his family above all else, cooks for relaxation, and revels in his membership to a discreet spanking club. But his father is ill, and his mother is pushing him to marry. Even so, when he meets a dark-haired beauty who doesn’t mind a good spanking and discovers she's up for auction, he can't let her go to another man. He has to have her...at least until he finds a wife.
With an inevitable marriage looming and a vow to remain faithful to his hypothetical bride once he's engaged, both Penelope and Michael must protect their hearts, even as they find a connection they cannot deny.
After her mother's death, Penelope Wood's hope of opening a bakery falls victim to the real need to support herself. When four retired courtesans present her with a temporary yet lucrative path back to her dream, she wants to hear more. Attending the School of Enlightenment, participating in a Virgin Auction, and becoming a courtesan all sound feasible. The most important rule--do not fall in love.
Lord Michael Slade, heir to the Earl of Mansfield, loves his family above all else, cooks for relaxation, and revels in his membership to a discreet spanking club. But his father is ill, and his mother is pushing him to marry. Even so, when he meets a dark-haired beauty who doesn’t mind a good spanking and discovers she's up for auction, he can't let her go to another man. He has to have her...at least until he finds a wife.
With an inevitable marriage looming and a vow to remain faithful to his hypothetical bride once he's engaged, both Penelope and Michael must protect their hearts, even as they find a connection they cannot deny.
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Published October 19, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 19, 2022
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥+ (10-11 full scenes)
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You can read this as a stand alone, but there are characters that make appearances in earlier books if you like to know everyone’s back story. Michael and Penelope have minimal mention/page time in prior books but Penelope and the prior heroine, Sophia, have a friendship that might be nice to understand before diving into this one. (Start with Roslynn’s Rebellion which you get through Sims’ newsletter, then Sophia’s Schooling (book 1), then Ann’s Angel, which is Mary and Ann’s novella found in the Holiday Shorts anthology (will most likely be published separately at a later date).
Basic plot:
Penelope has a desire to own her own bakery. When her mother passes, she knows it’s time for her to make her own way in the world. One way to achieve financial security she finds is to become a courtesan and sell herself at a virgin auction. Michael sees her and knows he must buy her.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1816)
- Mix between London and country setting
- Hero is the heir to an Earldom
- Virgin auction (heroine consents to participate!)
- Heroine becomes mistress
- Heroine likes to cook and garden and wants to own a bakery
- Touch of instalust (hero knows he wants the heroine upon setting eyes on her and the heroine feels the same enticement)
- Heroine is mentioned of having darker coloring and you find her great grandmother is from India and she retains many of the spice knowledge and recipes used for cooking and baking with Indian taste
- Hero also enjoys cooking and always snuck away to the kitchen in his spare time
- High steam – at least 9 scenes (I counted 2 that were close together as 1 scene) with light kink (scenes of spanking, light control, orgasm denial (edging), anal play)
- Hero needs an heir (his father is ill)
- Class difference – hero is heir to an earldom and heroine is a courtesan
Ages:
- Heroine is 18, hero is 26
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed this second full installment to Sims’ School of Enlightenment series! Again, she brings the heat here so hopefully you are ready for a steamy read!
Things I loved:
- I loved that the focus was on the main couple. No villain or mystery to solve here and I adore reading all about their emotional journey growing as a couple
- I really loved the hero’s mother here. I have read a lot of ‘evil’ mother figures this year and I appreciate mothers that truly care about their children and their happiness (I lived the evil MIL and I’m still not recovered haha!)
- Looooooved the steam here. So many fabulous scenes. They were great with the emotional aspect to them especially with the worry of their temporary situation looming over their relationship – give me all the relationship angst!
- I enjoyed the playfulness and adventurous side to their relationship (again, seggs! :P ) I tend to read a lot of vanilla missionary so these were FUN
- I enjoyed the heroine whole-heartedly embracing a courtesan lifestyle. It was interesting to see the heroine in this place and it makes your heart tug for her. I am over the evil courtesan mistress trope you see in many older romance novels.
- I adored that both of them enjoyed cooking! I really adore romance that includes cooking/food scenes in historical and I find I don’t come across it too much, sadly. So I really enjoyed this aspect, especially how they desecrate the dining table. lol
Things I wanted:
- I was actually hoping for a bit more spanking!
- I wanted to see Michael in the kitchen more
- Ummmm kinda wanted that figging on page lol
- Would have loved a small prologue (or beginning of the book chapters) dedicated a bit to the actual school and the classes as I was really interested in that!
This is such a great addition to the school of enlightenment series. Michael is a really lovable hero that truly cares about those in his life. He has strong relationships with his friends and his parents (I LOVE a man that has a good relationship with his parents!), and when he meets Penelope he is ALL IN...and I adore that.
Penelope was fun and spunky and I loved that she’s not your ‘average’ heroine – she embraces her lifestyle as a courtesan. She knows what she wants in life and isn’t afraid to go after it. These two are really enjoyable together and I’m convinced of their HEA (happily ever after) which always leaves me closing the book with a smile on my face and my heart humming in happiness.
All the characters in this novel were just really fun and likable. I loved meeting Michaels friends here (who I am hoping have future books in the works?? Or prehaps Beth? I am eagerly awaiting future series news!)
I think if you love steamy romance that’s focused on the couple you’ll enjoy this lovely addition to the historical romance genre.
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: okay I'll be honest I might have mixed up some of my scene page numbers between the actual page number on the page and the page number of the PDF but this should give you a rough idea anyway haha!
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥+ (10-11 full scenes)
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You can read this as a stand alone, but there are characters that make appearances in earlier books if you like to know everyone’s back story. Michael and Penelope have minimal mention/page time in prior books but Penelope and the prior heroine, Sophia, have a friendship that might be nice to understand before diving into this one. (Start with Roslynn’s Rebellion which you get through Sims’ newsletter, then Sophia’s Schooling (book 1), then Ann’s Angel, which is Mary and Ann’s novella found in the Holiday Shorts anthology (will most likely be published separately at a later date).
Basic plot:
Penelope has a desire to own her own bakery. When her mother passes, she knows it’s time for her to make her own way in the world. One way to achieve financial security she finds is to become a courtesan and sell herself at a virgin auction. Michael sees her and knows he must buy her.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1816)
- Mix between London and country setting
- Hero is the heir to an Earldom
- Virgin auction (heroine consents to participate!)
- Heroine becomes mistress
- Heroine likes to cook and garden and wants to own a bakery
- Touch of instalust (hero knows he wants the heroine upon setting eyes on her and the heroine feels the same enticement)
- Heroine is mentioned of having darker coloring and you find her great grandmother is from India and she retains many of the spice knowledge and recipes used for cooking and baking with Indian taste
- Hero also enjoys cooking and always snuck away to the kitchen in his spare time
- High steam – at least 9 scenes (I counted 2 that were close together as 1 scene) with light kink (scenes of spanking, light control, orgasm denial (edging), anal play)
- Hero needs an heir (his father is ill)
- Class difference – hero is heir to an earldom and heroine is a courtesan
Ages:
- Heroine is 18, hero is 26
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed this second full installment to Sims’ School of Enlightenment series! Again, she brings the heat here so hopefully you are ready for a steamy read!
Things I loved:
- I loved that the focus was on the main couple. No villain or mystery to solve here and I adore reading all about their emotional journey growing as a couple
- I really loved the hero’s mother here. I have read a lot of ‘evil’ mother figures this year and I appreciate mothers that truly care about their children and their happiness (I lived the evil MIL and I’m still not recovered haha!)
- Looooooved the steam here. So many fabulous scenes. They were great with the emotional aspect to them especially with the worry of their temporary situation looming over their relationship – give me all the relationship angst!
- I enjoyed the playfulness and adventurous side to their relationship (again, seggs! :P ) I tend to read a lot of vanilla missionary so these were FUN
- I enjoyed the heroine whole-heartedly embracing a courtesan lifestyle. It was interesting to see the heroine in this place and it makes your heart tug for her. I am over the evil courtesan mistress trope you see in many older romance novels.
- I adored that both of them enjoyed cooking! I really adore romance that includes cooking/food scenes in historical and I find I don’t come across it too much, sadly. So I really enjoyed this aspect, especially how they desecrate the dining table. lol
Things I wanted:
- I was actually hoping for a bit more spanking!
- I wanted to see Michael in the kitchen more
- Ummmm kinda wanted that figging on page lol
- Would have loved a small prologue (or beginning of the book chapters) dedicated a bit to the actual school and the classes as I was really interested in that!
This is such a great addition to the school of enlightenment series. Michael is a really lovable hero that truly cares about those in his life. He has strong relationships with his friends and his parents (I LOVE a man that has a good relationship with his parents!), and when he meets Penelope he is ALL IN...and I adore that.
Penelope was fun and spunky and I loved that she’s not your ‘average’ heroine – she embraces her lifestyle as a courtesan. She knows what she wants in life and isn’t afraid to go after it. These two are really enjoyable together and I’m convinced of their HEA (happily ever after) which always leaves me closing the book with a smile on my face and my heart humming in happiness.
All the characters in this novel were just really fun and likable. I loved meeting Michaels friends here (who I am hoping have future books in the works?? Or prehaps Beth? I am eagerly awaiting future series news!)
I think if you love steamy romance that’s focused on the couple you’ll enjoy this lovely addition to the historical romance genre.
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: okay I'll be honest I might have mixed up some of my scene page numbers between the actual page number on the page and the page number of the PDF but this should give you a rough idea anyway haha!
October 20, 2022
Spanking in books can be sexy or it can be comical...a story....
The first meeting of the MCs resulted in a spanking. It was so bad. It was giving me strong Christian Grey "later babes" vibes....you know full the body cringe type of moment? I'm also in no mood for this type of cheesy writing, the kind with little to no substance. Not the authors fault, but the blub read like this might be a little more serious than it started.
Needless to say, the cringe factor did me in and I simply could not continue.
The first meeting of the MCs resulted in a spanking. It was so bad. It was giving me strong Christian Grey "later babes" vibes....you know full the body cringe type of moment? I'm also in no mood for this type of cheesy writing, the kind with little to no substance. Not the authors fault, but the blub read like this might be a little more serious than it started.
Needless to say, the cringe factor did me in and I simply could not continue.
August 3, 2022
Penelope's Passion is the perfect title for this book - Penelope isn't at all the usual heroine. Thrust into dire financial straits, she ends up in an auction for young beauties, seemingly certain that she can handle whatever gentleman purchases her. Little does she expect to find herself under the protection of the first man she'd met in London, and the first man to ever put her over his knee! This is a wonderful story of forbidden romance from two people in very different life circumstances just trying to do the right thing for both themselves and their families. Hot, sweet, and containing one very hard-handed hero, readers who like an extra spicy historical romance will not want to miss out!
April 4, 2023
Sweet and steamy, but dragged quite badly in the middle. A novella would have been perfect.
October 19, 2022
There is nothing I like better than a good underdog, and Penelope is definitely a heroine you can root for. I found it surprising how resigned she was to becoming a courtesan to fund her dreams of owning a bakery, but I do admire her work ethic.
As she comes to know Michael, her benefactor, she cannot help but give everything to him - including her heart. This forbidden romance is sweet and spicy as they become such great friends as well as bed mates.
Maybe my bar for domestic discipline is high based on the last book, but I found this one tamer. Still naughty, but not nearly as surprising. I thought, given Pen’s love for ginger, that might come into play a little bit more outside her recipes. Teehee
Readers who like their historical romance with an bit of spice will like both the romance and the baking!
As she comes to know Michael, her benefactor, she cannot help but give everything to him - including her heart. This forbidden romance is sweet and spicy as they become such great friends as well as bed mates.
Maybe my bar for domestic discipline is high based on the last book, but I found this one tamer. Still naughty, but not nearly as surprising. I thought, given Pen’s love for ginger, that might come into play a little bit more outside her recipes. Teehee
Readers who like their historical romance with an bit of spice will like both the romance and the baking!
February 11, 2023
With her mother’s recent passing, Penelope Wood quickly sees the need to find a way to make more money to support herself and her stepfather and half-brother. When four retired courtesans in her hometown approach her with a short-term employment that could help her earn enough to realize her dream of opening a bakery, she’s eager to hear them out. This leads her to the School of Enlightenment and an auction in London to launch her career as a courtesan. There’s only one rule she absolutely must follow—she must not fall in love.
Lord Michael Slade is very focused on his duty to his family and puts them first in all things, though he does enjoy cooking in his spare time and has membership at a discreet club. Given the failing health of his father, the Earl of Mansfield, Michael understands his responsibility to marry and soon. But when he meets beautiful Penelope, he can’t bring himself to allow her to go to another man and decides to make her his mistress while he searches for a wife.
With the time remaining before he must bow to pressure and wed dwindling, Michael and Penelope must make the most of the little time they have together, even as it becomes increasingly obvious that the bond between them cannot be denied.
I’m a bit torn about this book, and I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s because the mistress trope is just not for me. The writing was good, if a bit modern in some of the dialogues for the setting, and the characters were well drawn but some of this just didn’t work for me, while other parts did. First off, the initial meeting between Michael and Penelope did not reflect well on either of them and I wasn’t super crazy about it. I also wasn’t thrilled with his involvement in auctioning women. Though it’s all designed for their safety, it just still gave me a bit of the ick for some reason I couldn’t quite pinpoint. Michael also just frustrated me in general. He was very woe-is-me in his attitude about his perceived lack of choices when really he just needed to stand up to his parents about their hypocrisy. They were by all accounts very loving parents, and he had every reason to expect at least some level of understanding from them. I also wasn’t crazy about him coming to Penelope in anger, though he at least didn’t hurt her. For her part, Penelope’s whining about being bored was a bit annoying to me and her constant obsession over her role as mistress made it impossible to forget how unequal she and Michael were in this relationship. His active pursuit of a debutante whilst visiting Penelope after his outings with those prospective wives just felt a bit close to cheating for me somehow, though he didn’t do anything with those girls beyond dancing. He took a bit too long to follow his heart for my liking. Even with his mother’s blessing, he still hesitated, creating angst where it wasn’t needed and creating problems that weren’t really there.
Nonetheless, I still did like Michael and Penelope as a couple. The heat and connection between them were clear and leapt off the page in most of their scenes together. Much of the story came across as a humorous comedy where I’m not sure it was meant to be one, but it was entertaining. At times it did get bogged down and I skimmed very detailed descriptions of clothing and the like, but otherwise, this was a story that will be enjoyed by those who want to read a high-steam book with a hero who is completely gone for the heroine but doesn’t want to admit it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lord Michael Slade is very focused on his duty to his family and puts them first in all things, though he does enjoy cooking in his spare time and has membership at a discreet club. Given the failing health of his father, the Earl of Mansfield, Michael understands his responsibility to marry and soon. But when he meets beautiful Penelope, he can’t bring himself to allow her to go to another man and decides to make her his mistress while he searches for a wife.
With the time remaining before he must bow to pressure and wed dwindling, Michael and Penelope must make the most of the little time they have together, even as it becomes increasingly obvious that the bond between them cannot be denied.
I’m a bit torn about this book, and I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s because the mistress trope is just not for me. The writing was good, if a bit modern in some of the dialogues for the setting, and the characters were well drawn but some of this just didn’t work for me, while other parts did. First off, the initial meeting between Michael and Penelope did not reflect well on either of them and I wasn’t super crazy about it. I also wasn’t thrilled with his involvement in auctioning women. Though it’s all designed for their safety, it just still gave me a bit of the ick for some reason I couldn’t quite pinpoint. Michael also just frustrated me in general. He was very woe-is-me in his attitude about his perceived lack of choices when really he just needed to stand up to his parents about their hypocrisy. They were by all accounts very loving parents, and he had every reason to expect at least some level of understanding from them. I also wasn’t crazy about him coming to Penelope in anger, though he at least didn’t hurt her. For her part, Penelope’s whining about being bored was a bit annoying to me and her constant obsession over her role as mistress made it impossible to forget how unequal she and Michael were in this relationship. His active pursuit of a debutante whilst visiting Penelope after his outings with those prospective wives just felt a bit close to cheating for me somehow, though he didn’t do anything with those girls beyond dancing. He took a bit too long to follow his heart for my liking. Even with his mother’s blessing, he still hesitated, creating angst where it wasn’t needed and creating problems that weren’t really there.
Nonetheless, I still did like Michael and Penelope as a couple. The heat and connection between them were clear and leapt off the page in most of their scenes together. Much of the story came across as a humorous comedy where I’m not sure it was meant to be one, but it was entertaining. At times it did get bogged down and I skimmed very detailed descriptions of clothing and the like, but otherwise, this was a story that will be enjoyed by those who want to read a high-steam book with a hero who is completely gone for the heroine but doesn’t want to admit it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
October 27, 2022
Lord Michael Slade, heir to the Earl of Mansfield, loves his family above all else, cooks for relaxation, and revels in his membership to a discreet spanking club. But his father is ill, and his mother is pushing him to marry. Even so, when he meets a dark-haired beauty who doesn’t mind a good spanking and discovers she's up for auction, he can't let her go to another man. He has to have her...at least until he finds a wife.
With an inevitable marriage looming and a vow to remain faithful to his hypothetical bride once he's engaged, both Penelope and Michael must protect their hearts, even as they find a connection they cannot deny. Penelope and Michael are meant to be together.
She participates in a virgin auction to save herself from being broke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With an inevitable marriage looming and a vow to remain faithful to his hypothetical bride once he's engaged, both Penelope and Michael must protect their hearts, even as they find a connection they cannot deny. Penelope and Michael are meant to be together.
She participates in a virgin auction to save herself from being broke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2022
If, like me, you like both erotica and food, look no further! What a delight it was to find out that the heroine and the hero of Penelope’s Passion share a love of cooking! It made for unusual characters and quite naughty scenes…
We quickly get involved in the story and sympathise with Penelope’s plight. How was a woman to find the considerable amount of money needed to fund her life’s dream in the 19th century? Enter Lord Michael Slade, who is definitely not looking for a wife, and not about to fall in love… The rest, as they say, is history!
I enjoyed Michael and Penelope’s interaction with each other, and the humour in the descriptions (favourite quote: “Him entering her body with his fingers and his cock, spilling his seed in her and on her, were seven-layer cakes after expecting a tiny custard tartlet.” Very good, and very true!)
All in all, I would thoroughly recommend Penelope’s Passion to people in search of a classic yet spicy love story. It’s a worthy sequel to Sophia’s Schooling.
We quickly get involved in the story and sympathise with Penelope’s plight. How was a woman to find the considerable amount of money needed to fund her life’s dream in the 19th century? Enter Lord Michael Slade, who is definitely not looking for a wife, and not about to fall in love… The rest, as they say, is history!
I enjoyed Michael and Penelope’s interaction with each other, and the humour in the descriptions (favourite quote: “Him entering her body with his fingers and his cock, spilling his seed in her and on her, were seven-layer cakes after expecting a tiny custard tartlet.” Very good, and very true!)
All in all, I would thoroughly recommend Penelope’s Passion to people in search of a classic yet spicy love story. It’s a worthy sequel to Sophia’s Schooling.
August 19, 2022
I truly enjoyed reading this book. Maggie Sims managed to make me love both main characters within pages of starting the book.
Penelope won me over with her quriosity, plus she was so sweet, and I loved the wounerable side of Michael. There was just the right amount of drama that kept me captivated and wondering what was going to happen next between the two of them. And as the story moved along I got to learn more about them and what motivated them.
The relationship they had was hot (and by hot I mean really spicy), heavy and exciting.
Very imaginative and entertaining!
Penelope won me over with her quriosity, plus she was so sweet, and I loved the wounerable side of Michael. There was just the right amount of drama that kept me captivated and wondering what was going to happen next between the two of them. And as the story moved along I got to learn more about them and what motivated them.
The relationship they had was hot (and by hot I mean really spicy), heavy and exciting.
Very imaginative and entertaining!
May 31, 2023
When a maid scolds him in his own theatre, Lord Michael Slade decides a spanking is in order. But damn him, the chit looks like she enjoyed it. And to his shock and delight she’s put up for auction that same night. He simply has to have her!
After her mother’s death, Penelope Wood’s dream of opening a bakery becomes more unattainable than ever. When friends of her mother offer the opportunity of enrolling in the School of Enlightenment, hope flares and she grabs it. Becoming a governess the safer choice, two seasons as a courtesan would be all she needs. And a virgin auction isn’t all that bad, is it?
To her surprise Michael turns out to be a most attentive, challenging and accepting lord. The kind of man to whom she could easily lose her heart. But their liaison has an expiration date. He will marry and she will need a new benefactor.
Being heir to the Earl of Mansfield, Michael knows Pen is not whom his mother had in mind when she was motivating him to find a wife. Disappointing his beloved parents is the last thing he wants, but she’s everything and more. Easy to be around, intelligent, beautiful and sexually adventurous. With her he can finally stop thinking, share his love for cooking and just be.
If only he didn’t need to marry a ‘drab’ girl…
The reality of their situation appeals to neither of them. A future together impossible. Or is it only a matter of asking the right questions?
📚 Yes! Yes! YES!!! This book has everything I missed in the previous one! Friendship, romance, steamy passion, witty banter, character growth - even for those from the previous book - and an abundance of chemistry. It’s enthralling, exciting, naughty and serious when need be. The way Pen and Michael find each other in all things great and small, for better or for worse. There’s absolutely no doubt these two were made for each other, and I absolutely loved their story!
📚 Steamy with some spicy kink and food play, open door, class difference, forbidden romance
Thank you to Maggie Sims for this book!
After her mother’s death, Penelope Wood’s dream of opening a bakery becomes more unattainable than ever. When friends of her mother offer the opportunity of enrolling in the School of Enlightenment, hope flares and she grabs it. Becoming a governess the safer choice, two seasons as a courtesan would be all she needs. And a virgin auction isn’t all that bad, is it?
To her surprise Michael turns out to be a most attentive, challenging and accepting lord. The kind of man to whom she could easily lose her heart. But their liaison has an expiration date. He will marry and she will need a new benefactor.
Being heir to the Earl of Mansfield, Michael knows Pen is not whom his mother had in mind when she was motivating him to find a wife. Disappointing his beloved parents is the last thing he wants, but she’s everything and more. Easy to be around, intelligent, beautiful and sexually adventurous. With her he can finally stop thinking, share his love for cooking and just be.
If only he didn’t need to marry a ‘drab’ girl…
The reality of their situation appeals to neither of them. A future together impossible. Or is it only a matter of asking the right questions?
📚 Yes! Yes! YES!!! This book has everything I missed in the previous one! Friendship, romance, steamy passion, witty banter, character growth - even for those from the previous book - and an abundance of chemistry. It’s enthralling, exciting, naughty and serious when need be. The way Pen and Michael find each other in all things great and small, for better or for worse. There’s absolutely no doubt these two were made for each other, and I absolutely loved their story!
📚 Steamy with some spicy kink and food play, open door, class difference, forbidden romance
Thank you to Maggie Sims for this book!
March 24, 2023
This was such a good read.
Very interesting connections between Penelope and Michael with respect and trust. Good balance between romance and sexy scenes. In context of a relationship between a courtesan and an Earl, conflict about society contraints is well depicted and not ignored.
Very good second book of School of Enlightenment serie, I recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Very interesting connections between Penelope and Michael with respect and trust. Good balance between romance and sexy scenes. In context of a relationship between a courtesan and an Earl, conflict about society contraints is well depicted and not ignored.
Very good second book of School of Enlightenment serie, I recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2024
2 stars
I think whether you like this book depends entirely on the type of reading you're looking for, and if you are open for something very very peculiar and different, it wasn't my type of romance but I think for the right person it could be a decent read.
Set in the Regency era...
Penelope is a young woman who comes from the working class, her mother was a seamstress and her stepfather is a blacksmith, she has no magical connection to the nobility, so when her mother dies she understands that her options are limited, and decides to turn to some women who live in her town who are rumored to be former courtesans, thanks to them Penelope gets a scholarship to a "secret" university for women, which will prepare them among other things to be courtesans, Penelope chooses that career and learns how to handle finances, conversation topics, psychological management, and sexual issues.
When she finishes her studies she is auctioned off with other young women, before the ceremony, Penelope meets the owner of a theater Michel (the hero) who is going to be an earl , their meeting is neither romantic nor logical, you see while she mops the floor, he walks in with dirt on his shoes and Penelope complains to him, even though she notices that he must be a rich nobleman because of his clothes, they still fight, he takes her on his knee and spanks her.... Yes, you read that right...
Something that he likes to do sexually speaking, and that Penelope enjoys, it's not that it scares me but it is the rudest behavior on Michel's part, it almost borders on sexual abuse and harassment, you meet what appears to be an employee, doing a normal job, she tells you something that you don't like, you pull her by the arm and spank her while you get excited ???? REALLY ???? Well in the end Michel decides to take Penelope as a mistress , but since his parents don't approve mistresses or anything like that, the relationship will be secret, he buys her a house and they make a financial agreement, despite their bad meeting the two like each other and Penelope behaves like the perfect mistress, Michel is not a sweet and loving hero, he is quite bossy, demanding, he can be hurtful, BUT he is not an antihero nor is he bad as such, in fact most of the time he is kind, simple, generous, caring, and very considerate, but of course even though they fall in love he could never marry her, well in a normal universe, but in the strange regency that this book has created, everything is possible.....
It is not a book as distressing as I expected, I thought there was more drama of we can't be together, and the truth is that apart from one or two times when Penelope sees Michel going out with other ladies that he courts as future wives, there is not much drama, and in fact those scenes at the end are not sad or anything, Penelope does not claim or suffer, sticking to her training, I also thought that their relationship would have more ups and downs, or more nuances, but the truth is that, they meet, she becomes his mistress, they like each other, they have many, many, many sexual encounters, they fall in love, period... Rather, from 30% to 80% of the book, what we read is nonsense, Penelope's talks with friends, Michel's with his friends, the interaction of his family, and Penelope disguising herself to do funny jokes to Michel (which are stupid and lead to nothing) I think that if this had been a Novel, it would have more consistency, but I recognize that it is the first story in which the mistress / noble relationship is handled in a realistic way, Penelope must obey him and depends on him completely, Michel does not hesitate to exercise his power and control over her, he does not do it in a bad way but it is a realistic dynamic, the sex scenes are well written and varied, but overall it's not a very complex or very entertaining book and it's totally predictable, the school thing was an illogical detail, Michel even wants to give scholarships to girls with no options, I don't know if that's good or not but I think that once you get used to this parallel reality, the plot is light and moves quickly, the writing however is more fan fiction style, I haven't read the other books in the series nor will I read them, although I suppose that if you are the type that likes a lot of sex, simple romantic stories, romanceland, Cinderella and the prince you will like this.
I think whether you like this book depends entirely on the type of reading you're looking for, and if you are open for something very very peculiar and different, it wasn't my type of romance but I think for the right person it could be a decent read.
Set in the Regency era...
Penelope is a young woman who comes from the working class, her mother was a seamstress and her stepfather is a blacksmith, she has no magical connection to the nobility, so when her mother dies she understands that her options are limited, and decides to turn to some women who live in her town who are rumored to be former courtesans, thanks to them Penelope gets a scholarship to a "secret" university for women, which will prepare them among other things to be courtesans, Penelope chooses that career and learns how to handle finances, conversation topics, psychological management, and sexual issues.
When she finishes her studies she is auctioned off with other young women, before the ceremony, Penelope meets the owner of a theater Michel (the hero) who is going to be an earl , their meeting is neither romantic nor logical, you see while she mops the floor, he walks in with dirt on his shoes and Penelope complains to him, even though she notices that he must be a rich nobleman because of his clothes, they still fight, he takes her on his knee and spanks her.... Yes, you read that right...
Something that he likes to do sexually speaking, and that Penelope enjoys, it's not that it scares me but it is the rudest behavior on Michel's part, it almost borders on sexual abuse and harassment, you meet what appears to be an employee, doing a normal job, she tells you something that you don't like, you pull her by the arm and spank her while you get excited ???? REALLY ???? Well in the end Michel decides to take Penelope as a mistress , but since his parents don't approve mistresses or anything like that, the relationship will be secret, he buys her a house and they make a financial agreement, despite their bad meeting the two like each other and Penelope behaves like the perfect mistress, Michel is not a sweet and loving hero, he is quite bossy, demanding, he can be hurtful, BUT he is not an antihero nor is he bad as such, in fact most of the time he is kind, simple, generous, caring, and very considerate, but of course even though they fall in love he could never marry her, well in a normal universe, but in the strange regency that this book has created, everything is possible.....
It is not a book as distressing as I expected, I thought there was more drama of we can't be together, and the truth is that apart from one or two times when Penelope sees Michel going out with other ladies that he courts as future wives, there is not much drama, and in fact those scenes at the end are not sad or anything, Penelope does not claim or suffer, sticking to her training, I also thought that their relationship would have more ups and downs, or more nuances, but the truth is that, they meet, she becomes his mistress, they like each other, they have many, many, many sexual encounters, they fall in love, period... Rather, from 30% to 80% of the book, what we read is nonsense, Penelope's talks with friends, Michel's with his friends, the interaction of his family, and Penelope disguising herself to do funny jokes to Michel (which are stupid and lead to nothing) I think that if this had been a Novel, it would have more consistency, but I recognize that it is the first story in which the mistress / noble relationship is handled in a realistic way, Penelope must obey him and depends on him completely, Michel does not hesitate to exercise his power and control over her, he does not do it in a bad way but it is a realistic dynamic, the sex scenes are well written and varied, but overall it's not a very complex or very entertaining book and it's totally predictable, the school thing was an illogical detail, Michel even wants to give scholarships to girls with no options, I don't know if that's good or not but I think that once you get used to this parallel reality, the plot is light and moves quickly, the writing however is more fan fiction style, I haven't read the other books in the series nor will I read them, although I suppose that if you are the type that likes a lot of sex, simple romantic stories, romanceland, Cinderella and the prince you will like this.
August 29, 2022
Poor Penelope... she's poor! In Regency England, her best bet to raise capital for the pastry-shop of her dreams is to auction herself in a Virgin Sale. And while she's prepared to close her eyes and think of her bank account in case her patron is ancient and ugly, she's NOT prepared for a handsome (and utterly hot) boss who ticks every item on her romantic and sexual checklist. Especially since their business contract runs out at the end of one year.
The great fun in the second volume of Maggie Sims' 'Enlightement' saga is that you get a chance to catch up with some of the likeble and lusty characters from Book One. (Can't say more without straying into spoiler territory!) Recommended for any and all who enjoy steamy historical bodice rippers!
The great fun in the second volume of Maggie Sims' 'Enlightement' saga is that you get a chance to catch up with some of the likeble and lusty characters from Book One. (Can't say more without straying into spoiler territory!) Recommended for any and all who enjoy steamy historical bodice rippers!
October 18, 2022
When Penelope’s mother died, she knew there would be no hope of opening a bakery. When four retired courtesans approach her with a plan where she may be able to obtain her dream, she can’t say no. When Lord Michael and Penelope meet, sparks fly but can they keep their hearts safe when they both know this will end once Michael finds his bride to be? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, emotion and steam. Great characters and sizzling scenes. I liked it.
August 16, 2022
Book 2 checks ALL of the boxes!
I liked Book 1 (Sophia and Edward) a lot, I mean, I gave it 5 stars—but this one is EVEN better, in my opinion.
Why is it so good? 1. The MCs (Penelope and Michael) are adults who actually behave like adults. There are no contrived misunderstandings. They do have some conflict but it is dealt with with maturity and grace. 2. The characters are not perfect. They are flawed, but their flaws give them depth and an opportunity for real growth. 3. There’s no Villain. I am tired of reading stories that rely on an epic villain to cause danger/conflict. Societal rules/constraints/expectations provide the real conflict that must be navigated in this story.
Why did I like it so much? Not only do I love Historical spanking romances, but Maggie Sims gave this one a slightly different flare which made it fresh and very enjoyable. Also, the previous Hero from book 1 (Edward), who, in my opinion, did not redeem himself as much as I would’ve liked in that story, knocked it out of the park in this one!! However, ultimately the innate goodness of both Penelope and Michael made me invest in them and cheer for them from the very beginning.
If you like HR with spanking and HIGH steam, I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed. ❤️ I can’t wait for the next story in the School of Enlightenment series and I really hope it’s Evan’s or Robert’s story! 🤞🏻
I received an Advanced Review Copy of this book.
I liked Book 1 (Sophia and Edward) a lot, I mean, I gave it 5 stars—but this one is EVEN better, in my opinion.
Why is it so good? 1. The MCs (Penelope and Michael) are adults who actually behave like adults. There are no contrived misunderstandings. They do have some conflict but it is dealt with with maturity and grace. 2. The characters are not perfect. They are flawed, but their flaws give them depth and an opportunity for real growth. 3. There’s no Villain. I am tired of reading stories that rely on an epic villain to cause danger/conflict. Societal rules/constraints/expectations provide the real conflict that must be navigated in this story.
Why did I like it so much? Not only do I love Historical spanking romances, but Maggie Sims gave this one a slightly different flare which made it fresh and very enjoyable. Also, the previous Hero from book 1 (Edward), who, in my opinion, did not redeem himself as much as I would’ve liked in that story, knocked it out of the park in this one!! However, ultimately the innate goodness of both Penelope and Michael made me invest in them and cheer for them from the very beginning.
If you like HR with spanking and HIGH steam, I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed. ❤️ I can’t wait for the next story in the School of Enlightenment series and I really hope it’s Evan’s or Robert’s story! 🤞🏻
I received an Advanced Review Copy of this book.
May 13, 2023
This was delightfully heartwarming and sexy! Penelope and Michael make a wonderful couple with great personalities, thoughtful manners, and so compatible in the bedroom. Maggie has written another regency erotic romance with memorable characters, historically correct attitudes, and spankingly hot scenes.
Michael’s parents are supportive, loving, and very interested in grandchildren. His friends are very supportive and interested in his happiness. The couple’s relationship has grown from a business transaction to a love that encompasses their life and future. The HEA is so sweet!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Michael’s parents are supportive, loving, and very interested in grandchildren. His friends are very supportive and interested in his happiness. The couple’s relationship has grown from a business transaction to a love that encompasses their life and future. The HEA is so sweet!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 18, 2022
The second book in the School of Enlightenment series offers another sizzling erotic romance with a Pretty Woman vibe. Penelope’s dream is to open a bakery, but she has no way to raise the funds until an unusual opportunity presents. Through an “auction,” she becomes the mistress of a Lord who feels he must marry a “drab” member of society to please his parents. But he can’t resist Penelope’s dramatic introduction, and when he wins the bid, her skills in the bedroom – and the kitchen – leave him in quite a sexy stew. Fans of regency steam will enjoy this series featuring saucy virgin heroines who aren’t afraid to indulge their erotic natures.
August 18, 2022
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest review. This was a sexy and entertaining read. The characters were likable and had decent growth. I enjoyed seeing how Michael and Penelope’s relationship developed. Honestly did cringe a bit at some of the food play during sex, but that’s just me. I’ll also never look at a rolling pin the same again lol.
August 18, 2022
Penelope’s Passion by Maggie Sims
This is a spicy rated story. If you want to be titillated, love a romance, and better still history is also your taste, then I would thoroughly recommend Penelope’s Passion.
Maggie Sims uses her skills with style leading the reader through Regency England with its upper and lower-class expectations. In my opinion Sims weaves her magic, and thankfully, does not use the oft cringe-worthy sexual descriptions found in some spicy novels. Instead, she delivers on love, romance, and hot sex scenes that creep up a notch with each chapter teasing you to want to read more.
This is a spicy rated story. If you want to be titillated, love a romance, and better still history is also your taste, then I would thoroughly recommend Penelope’s Passion.
Maggie Sims uses her skills with style leading the reader through Regency England with its upper and lower-class expectations. In my opinion Sims weaves her magic, and thankfully, does not use the oft cringe-worthy sexual descriptions found in some spicy novels. Instead, she delivers on love, romance, and hot sex scenes that creep up a notch with each chapter teasing you to want to read more.
May 2, 2023
Soooooo book 2 has lots of great characters in it, some of them are in book 1. This author has outdone herself again. Full of love, romance, drama and hot steam. Just so great to follow the story of Penelope and Edward after the story of Sophia and Edward. Penelope goes to the School of Enlightenment for a better education and tries to learn more about starting and running a bakery. She is in exceptional baker and cook, using old recipes from her family. She meets Michael , when he walks on her clean floor and receives her first spanking. When asked and told about a "special" auction to help her raise the funds she needs, she accepts. Michael sees her on stage and manages to buy her for a year. Lots of hot steamy scenes between them. this book is so well written, it keeps you turning the pages and wanting more. Again this author did another fabulous story. Would recommend this story and the reat in this series plus all future books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2023
This was my first work by Maggie Sims, and it will not be the last. I didn’t care for the MMC and FMC’s first time meeting one another, but I had read this spoiler in another review, so I pushed through it. I’m glad I did. The story was relatively low angst, with most of the conflict being internal conflict within the characters. While Penelope’s character annoyed me at times, it was refreshing to see a FMC make a conscious decision to become a courtesan. I enjoyed the reunion between Penelope and Sophia, and I was surprised at how much I ended up liking Michael’s mother. Do be aware that this is very much open-door and includes spanking. It is book two in a series, but I read it as a standalone.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
April 23, 2023
Saucy and steamy and hot hot!!
I enjoyed the hero and heronies characters the theatre connection and desigues did give some giggles. The romance and connection between them did have a lot of sensual tension.
I enjoyed the hero and heronies characters the theatre connection and desigues did give some giggles. The romance and connection between them did have a lot of sensual tension.
October 22, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This read fed my spicy historical romance and food-loving heart!
Penelope Wood just wants to bake. But with her mother's death and poverty looming in the horizon, she is forced to enter the School of Enlightenment and become a courtesan. When her turn comes up in a Virgin Auction, she certainly did not expect her benefactor to be so..enticing.
Lord Michael Slade dreads the noose that comes with marrying and becoming an Earl. Until the day he must succumb to his duties arrive, he spends his free time at the club where he is enchanted by Penelope. When she comes up on the auction block, he knew he couldn't let her go to someone else.
When they discover that they are a match in every physical way, can these two stop that connection from going further than that?
This was a great low-angst steamy read. I love the connection between Michael and Penelope from the get-go, and it just gets hotter and hotter. Their emotional chemistry is also above par. I love going along with them as they navigate through going against the odds with the Ton.
I just have to say that this book made me HUNGRY. Not just that kind of hungry, but between the culinary adventures of our main characters and Maggie Sims' integration of food-based descriptions, my stomach was definitely grumbling for a sweet by the end of the book.
If you like your historical romance on the spicier end of the Scoville scale, I definitely recommend this read.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Maggie Sims for providing an ARC. **
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This read fed my spicy historical romance and food-loving heart!
Penelope Wood just wants to bake. But with her mother's death and poverty looming in the horizon, she is forced to enter the School of Enlightenment and become a courtesan. When her turn comes up in a Virgin Auction, she certainly did not expect her benefactor to be so..enticing.
Lord Michael Slade dreads the noose that comes with marrying and becoming an Earl. Until the day he must succumb to his duties arrive, he spends his free time at the club where he is enchanted by Penelope. When she comes up on the auction block, he knew he couldn't let her go to someone else.
When they discover that they are a match in every physical way, can these two stop that connection from going further than that?
This was a great low-angst steamy read. I love the connection between Michael and Penelope from the get-go, and it just gets hotter and hotter. Their emotional chemistry is also above par. I love going along with them as they navigate through going against the odds with the Ton.
I just have to say that this book made me HUNGRY. Not just that kind of hungry, but between the culinary adventures of our main characters and Maggie Sims' integration of food-based descriptions, my stomach was definitely grumbling for a sweet by the end of the book.
If you like your historical romance on the spicier end of the Scoville scale, I definitely recommend this read.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Maggie Sims for providing an ARC. **
October 19, 2022
Penelope’s Passion, a Regency period romance, is book two in Maggie Sims School of Enlightenment series. It’s a fantastic follow up to the first book, Sophia’s Schooling.
Penelope is a feisty girl who desires to open her own bakery. Without money, however, she decides to participate in a virginity auction. She doesn’t have a problem doing whatever it takes to achieve her dream. She’s expecting some ancient man to pay for her, but when it’s Michael who is young and handsome, Penelope is thrilled. Over time, Penelope and Michael grow closer - there are some fun cooking scenes as well as steamy bedroom scenes. Penelope forgets the rules and falls for Michael, but there promised to be an HEA with a little spanking on the side.
The characters in this book - as well as the storytelling and world building are fantastic. I love the supporting characters, especially Michael’s mother. The author has created some fun spanking scenes. Trust me, the kitchen is not the only place where there’s cooking!!! Michael and Penelope do develop a true, emotional relationship with mutual respect - Sims does a great job of blending all the aspects of their relationship.
Penelope’s Passion can be read as a standalone, but you’ll enjoy it more if you read the previous book. Please read this great book, and let me know what you think - I’d love to discuss!!!
Penelope is a feisty girl who desires to open her own bakery. Without money, however, she decides to participate in a virginity auction. She doesn’t have a problem doing whatever it takes to achieve her dream. She’s expecting some ancient man to pay for her, but when it’s Michael who is young and handsome, Penelope is thrilled. Over time, Penelope and Michael grow closer - there are some fun cooking scenes as well as steamy bedroom scenes. Penelope forgets the rules and falls for Michael, but there promised to be an HEA with a little spanking on the side.
The characters in this book - as well as the storytelling and world building are fantastic. I love the supporting characters, especially Michael’s mother. The author has created some fun spanking scenes. Trust me, the kitchen is not the only place where there’s cooking!!! Michael and Penelope do develop a true, emotional relationship with mutual respect - Sims does a great job of blending all the aspects of their relationship.
Penelope’s Passion can be read as a standalone, but you’ll enjoy it more if you read the previous book. Please read this great book, and let me know what you think - I’d love to discuss!!!
October 21, 2022
So steamy! I really loved Penelope and Michael's story.
Following the death of her mother, Penelope must temporarily put her dream of opening a bakery on hold as she looks for another way to support herself. When she visits the four retired courtesans her mother worked for, she shares her dilemma and they steer her toward the School of Enlightenment. If she finds a generous benefactor she'll be able to save for her dream.
Lord Michael Slade's father is ill and his mother is pushing him to marry before he passes. But she wants him to marry someone with good social standing. Who the ton cannot find fault in.
Before he can even begin his search, he meets a woman who intrigues him. She's to be part of the virgin auction the theatre he owns is hosting. And when his friends express interest, he goes out of his way to insure that he is the winning bid.
Their time together is interrupted when his parents return to London early and he must begin to seriously find a wife. But the thought of giving her up or her finding a new benefactor drive him to the edge. He's encouraged to follow his heart and marry the woman who brings him joy.
And Hannah does the one thing her training warned her against, she's in love with Michael.
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC to review.
Working on review
Following the death of her mother, Penelope must temporarily put her dream of opening a bakery on hold as she looks for another way to support herself. When she visits the four retired courtesans her mother worked for, she shares her dilemma and they steer her toward the School of Enlightenment. If she finds a generous benefactor she'll be able to save for her dream.
Lord Michael Slade's father is ill and his mother is pushing him to marry before he passes. But she wants him to marry someone with good social standing. Who the ton cannot find fault in.
Before he can even begin his search, he meets a woman who intrigues him. She's to be part of the virgin auction the theatre he owns is hosting. And when his friends express interest, he goes out of his way to insure that he is the winning bid.
Their time together is interrupted when his parents return to London early and he must begin to seriously find a wife. But the thought of giving her up or her finding a new benefactor drive him to the edge. He's encouraged to follow his heart and marry the woman who brings him joy.
And Hannah does the one thing her training warned her against, she's in love with Michael.
Thank you so much to the author for this ARC to review.
Working on review
October 17, 2022
I’m not usually a huge reader of historical romance but this one came highly recommended so I decided to give it a go. Set in regency times Penelope of the title finds herself in the dubious position of auctioning off her virginity so that she’ll have the funds to follow her dream of owning her own bakery. Little did she suspect she’d attract the attention of a handsome young lord with a particular liking for corporal punishment, namely over the knee spankings! Can a hero and heroine from opposite ends of the social ladder truly find love in a time when such things mattered? Of course they can, this is a romance after all but half the fun is how they get there.
This was a quick enjoyable read with wonderful, well rounded characters and plenty of spice but not so much that it overpowered the story. I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. This is the second book in the School of Enlightenment series but if you haven’t read Maggie Sims before then Penelope’s Passion is a great introduction to this author’s work.
This was a quick enjoyable read with wonderful, well rounded characters and plenty of spice but not so much that it overpowered the story. I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. This is the second book in the School of Enlightenment series but if you haven’t read Maggie Sims before then Penelope’s Passion is a great introduction to this author’s work.
October 8, 2022
Sims’ second book in the School of Enlightenment series follows Penelope Wood, a young woman with a dream to open a bakery, but no money to do so until four retired courtesans suggest she participate in a Virgin Auction, a temporary arrangement that will earn her the funds she needs. With few other options available to her, she proceeds, cautioned by the courtesans to “not fall in love.” Penelope is determined to heed this advice until she meets her dashing patron, Lord Michael Slade. Sims again brings the spice without sacrificing the story. Penelope and Michael are vividly drawn characters, each struggling to reconcile the expectations of society and their families while searching for their own happiness. Their passionate and emotional journeys are seamlessly woven within vivid details of Regency England—parliamentary law-making, Cyprian balls, and the rungs of the societal ladder—creating a steamy romance that comes alive with depth, realness, and heart.
October 16, 2022
She broke the rule never fall in love.
Penelope live in a society where women have very little choose in career she is given a chance to go to a school where she will learn how to be a governess, actress, or courtesan. Pen chose to become a courtesan and now she was coming to London to be auctioned off. Lord Michael Slade is the owner of the theater where the auction is taken place. He and Pen meet but it didn’t go so well for Pen. At the auction Michael wins Penelope now their relationship will have it ups and downs and some interesting twists. This was a delightful to read I loved Michael’s mother. There is a bit of humor, sadness, doubt, and romance in this one and I highly recommend this book it was such fun to read. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Penelope live in a society where women have very little choose in career she is given a chance to go to a school where she will learn how to be a governess, actress, or courtesan. Pen chose to become a courtesan and now she was coming to London to be auctioned off. Lord Michael Slade is the owner of the theater where the auction is taken place. He and Pen meet but it didn’t go so well for Pen. At the auction Michael wins Penelope now their relationship will have it ups and downs and some interesting twists. This was a delightful to read I loved Michael’s mother. There is a bit of humor, sadness, doubt, and romance in this one and I highly recommend this book it was such fun to read. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 16, 2022
Bravo to the author of The School of Enlightenment series book 2. Ms. Sims has once again delivered a wonderful erotic romance featuring a strong, young woman taking charge of her life in a time when it just wasn’t done. Penelope’s Passion is a well written period piece depicting the few options offered to girls not born to privilege in the Regency Period of England. Instead of a woman resigned to her fate, Penelope takes a risk and follows her dreams in pursuit of happiness and financial stability. The details and characters peppered throughout the book are woven in seamlessly to create a story that is both enticing and erotic. The building relationship between Penelope and Michael pulled me in wondering if tradition would take hold and part them forever or bind them into an everlasting love.
November 8, 2022
A well put together romantic story. Aristocrat Michael feels the pressure to marry a lady of his own circle, but unfortunately he becomes enamored with lower class Penelope.Penelope’s dream is a bakery of her own, but for now she is forced to become a courtesan.Her first benefactor is Michael. Michael has never had a mistress before, and never wanted to until he saw Penelope. Now he doesn't want to think about losing her again. Heartbreak alternates with petty jealousy, there are some funny scenes, but while I like the content, I'm not charmed by the writing style. I find it quite boring, it doesn't flow smoothly, the author doesn't manage to take me into the story, it sometimes feel like it's just a summary of anecdotes.
So not the author for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So not the author for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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