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A review by sienasummerrreads
Stepbrother Dearest by Penelope Ward
challenging
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
“You’re the only girl in the entire world that’s forbidden and fuck me if that doesn’t make me want you more than anything.”
This story follows Greta, who one day discovers that her stepbrother, Alec, will be coming to live with them for a little while. Little does she know, he’ll bring more trouble than good. Temptation gets the best of them, but then, one day, Alec up and leaves. Seven years later, they’re brought back together—but time has passed, and things have changed. Can they find their way back to each other?
Once again, Penelope Ward delivers another hit. I highly recommend the audiobook if you decide to pick this up—the narrators brought these characters to life so well.
As for the story, it’s more character-driven, but it’s thoroughly enjoyable. Greta, the FMC, is kind, compassionate, and so innocent, but I loved seeing her fiery side when she went head-to-head with Alec—it was delicious. Then there’s Alec, who’s been through a lot, struggling with his father and his emotions. I adored how Greta cared for him like no one else had and gave him hope in pursuing his dreams.
The emotions and intimate moments made me fall in love with these two characters. I especially love books with a time gap because the reunions feel so raw—it’s heartbreaking to think about all the time they’ve lost.
I really enjoyed this one and will honestly pick up anything Penelope writes!
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 58mins
Narrators: Andi Arndt and Christian Fox - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Forbidden, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Second Chance, High School (Part Of The Book), Jealousy, Chemistry, Broken MMC, Family Drama, Tension, Nightmares, Mine, Hand Necklace, Intimate Tattoo, Grand Gesture, Death Of Parent, Sexual Content, Virgin, Pierced, Panty Thief and Outside Scene.
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This story follows Greta, who one day discovers that her stepbrother, Alec, will be coming to live with them for a little while. Little does she know, he’ll bring more trouble than good. Temptation gets the best of them, but then, one day, Alec up and leaves. Seven years later, they’re brought back together—but time has passed, and things have changed. Can they find their way back to each other?
Once again, Penelope Ward delivers another hit. I highly recommend the audiobook if you decide to pick this up—the narrators brought these characters to life so well.
As for the story, it’s more character-driven, but it’s thoroughly enjoyable. Greta, the FMC, is kind, compassionate, and so innocent, but I loved seeing her fiery side when she went head-to-head with Alec—it was delicious. Then there’s Alec, who’s been through a lot, struggling with his father and his emotions. I adored how Greta cared for him like no one else had and gave him hope in pursuing his dreams.
The emotions and intimate moments made me fall in love with these two characters. I especially love books with a time gap because the reunions feel so raw—it’s heartbreaking to think about all the time they’ve lost.
I really enjoyed this one and will honestly pick up anything Penelope writes!
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 58mins
Narrators: Andi Arndt and Christian Fox - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Forbidden, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Second Chance, High School (Part Of The Book), Jealousy, Chemistry, Broken MMC, Family Drama, Tension, Nightmares, Mine, Hand Necklace, Intimate Tattoo, Grand Gesture, Death Of Parent, Sexual Content, Virgin, Pierced, Panty Thief and Outside Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, and Alcohol
Minor: Death of parent and Pregnancy