There is BDSM that is consenual and cognizant of power dynamics and then there is not. I did not like this book.

3.5 stars rounded up.

Newly orphaned, Sophia Wilkinson has no idea what to expect of going to live with her cousin in opulent London. She only knows that she doesn’t especially want to risk her heart to the pain of loss again, though a husband may prove necessary to ensure her security.

Edward Morduant finds himself the reluctant Earl of Peterborough after his brother’s death and he’s also struggling to adjust. He harbors a secret that brings him shame and has caused him to eschew marriage, but now that he has inherited a title, he realizes he will eventually need to have heirs to continue it.

Edward is reluctantly attracted to his best friend’s ward even knowing he shouldn’t be. When Sophia finds herself curious about domestic discipline, she winds up getting closer to Edward than she’d ever planned to and when they’re caught in a scandalous position, only marriage can ensure the protection of her reputation. They’re both reluctant but hopeful, especially when Sophia is enrolled for two weeks of classes at the School of Enlightenment to prepare her for her marriage.

This story won’t be for everyone, but it is refreshing to see something so different in historical romance. There were definitely instances of interactions between the MCs that had me scoffing and Sophia definitely put up with more than I would have, but in the end their dynamic worked for them. Edward was a bit of a pill much of the time, asking much more of Sophia than he was willing to give of himself and at times it made her seem like a pushover, when in reality she was trying to find ways of getting along with her new husband while also staying true to herself. Sometimes Edward’s aloofness comes off as him using Sophia. He’s really just trying to protect his heart, but these blinders he wears at times make him oblivious to or careless of her desires in the face of what she can do for him. For this reason, it sometimes seems like Sophia is just going along to ensure her security. I definitely thought Edward was too condescending with her sometimes, referring to her as ‘young lady’ rather than allowing her to openly communicate with him was frustrating for me and I now know, not that I ever doubted, that this sort of relationship dynamic definitely wouldn’t work for me personally. Everything changed for Sophia so rapidly and she was incredibly young, so I think he was just a bit too impatient with her sometimes. The concept of her going to the school after they married was also a bit strange, but I give it points for being original. I just wish Edward gave Sophia credit for her horse knowledge a bit sooner. As a horse person myself I would’ve been furious to have someone condescending to me about horse safety when I’ve been around them my entire life, even if it was coming from a place of fearing for her safety. Thankfully, Edward did eventually open himself up to her and I found that very satisfying. I believed the feelings that developed between these two and that connection at least came through very strongly on the page.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Good read, quick and enjoyable. First book from this author that I have read. Good for fans of Bridgerton

This book started out well for me as I liked the naughtiness of Sophie watching Nicholas and Roslynn, characters from the previous novella, it sets up with what can be expected from this book (e.g. spanking). I liked this interlude, which was about 9% into the book, as it seemed playful even though it was meant to be Roslynn’s punishment – you could tell both parties were enjoying themselves and that Sophie was excited to explore the world of sexual spanking. What I didn’t like however was later on in the book when Edward was using spanking as a punishment and Sophia was crying and in obvious destress (don’t even get me started with the plug!) and yet Edward didn’t seem to care, and that she had to take her punishment. This made for very uncomfortable reading in my opinion.

I really wanted to enjoy this book, but for me it was ruined by the hero taking things a bit too far, and all Sophia wanted was his love and affection. While it was probably how things would have been at the time, so therefore historically correct, I personally found it too uncomfortable.

I would try another Maggie Sims book as her actual writing was very good. I just hope there is a more likeable hero in the next one.

*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This sexy and sensual debut from Maggie Sims is a perfectly steamy sexual awakening of a young woman. I found this novel to be interesting and fun. Sims' writing is easily accessible, well paced, and full of sexy moments that will keep the reader engaged in the development of this romantic relationship. I definitely enjoyed this novel and look forward to exploring more works from Maggie Sims as well as more works from this indie publishing company-The Wild Rose Press.

If you think that historical romances need more sensuality and steam than you should definitely check this novel out! This romance revolves around the sensual awakening of Sophia, who is 18 and recently orphaned. She is now living under the protection of a cousin. She must leave her country home for the opulence of London. While there she meets her cousin's best friend-Edward, who awakens desires in her. Both Edward and Sophia are not in the market for a spouse but they are having a hard time keeping their desires from each other, but Edward does not think he will make a good husband due to a shameful secret.

This novel is full of chemistry, sensuality and has a light layer of BDSM which plays well with the hero and heroine's discovery of themselves and how they will operate with each other. Maggie Sims uses Sophia's curiosity and openness is a wonderful way to explore a different side of sensuality. Through the exploration the development of trust that Sophia gives to Edward is very prevalent and creates a deeper relationship between the two. I think Sims really uses the acceptance it takes to be naked and curious with you partner as a beautiful way to develop a rich understanding between Edward and Sophia. Because they are both able to fully explore the other in the bedroom this helps to establish a trust that Edward can than be fully open with Sophia about his secret. Sims really shows the reader that a strong connection in the bedroom can be a beautiful lead into a strong relationship that will create a well balanced partnership.

I would strongly recommend this is you love a high steam romance and love the historical backdrop. This novel is the perfect sexy read and will hopefully give you a new author and indie publisher to explore more from.

Beautiful cover but absolutely deceiving. I love beauty and innocence of that era but this was not that type of book.

Here I got that only as far as reading a first dialogue with Edward and learning that he cannot read and then Sophia watching her distant cousin spanking and having sex with his wife in the library, and I wondered to myself why I am wasting my time on this.

Hmmm, I tried, I really did. The content of the book did not bother me at all, but it was the lack of emotional depth from both Edward and Sophia that made it not work and, almost, creepy. I understand that Edward has baggage from growing up with what I assume was dyslexia and that's totally understandable. I've seen that play out in other historical romances. I was expecting 'fall in love' with her more before his secret was revealed, but I didn't feel that at all. I know he was satisfied with her in the bedroom, but I just didn't get a sense of his actual LOVE for her.

Sophia, oh Sophia. Again, I understand what the author was doing...Sophia is a sheltered country girl thrust into London to find a husband. But her naivety in one situation followed by her forwardness in the next was so confusing. I found it kind of like she was 'faking' her innocence at times. Also, Edward was not very nice to her and yet she falls in love with him. I don't remember Edwards age being mentioned (Sophia is 18), but I got the feeling of 'Daddy' vibes and sometimes Edward came off as creepy.

Sweet and steamy historical romance. Sophia and Edward are interesting characters who do not feel confident in their new positions in life. Overall a good story without much angst.

Sexy fun regency novel. Really enjoyed it. Thank you netgalley and publisher for this arc in exchange of an honest review.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sophia’s Schooling is a passionate, oh-so-steamy journey of two lonely people who must learn to trust to find happiness. Sophia is young, alone, and scared of an unknown future. Edward, the new Earl of Peterborough, harbors a dark secret and particular sexual desires that he is afraid to share with women.

I enjoyed the tense sexual tension between Edward and Sophia. The sensual scenes were hot, hot, hot! At times the plot fell flat, or rather the storyline steered off course. I felt the school scenes could be somewhat fantastical. I could not get invested in the school scenes, and I honestly don’t know why. I know the school is fundamental to the series, but I want the plot at this point to be more organic and relatable. However, I loved every time the couple was together on-page. I felt the last third of the book was excellent. The journey Edward and Sophia took ebbed and flowed realistically. The plot moved fast, and the storyline was addictive and passionate.

Sophia’s Schooling is the first full-length novel in the School Of Enlightenment series. There is a novella that precedes this book that introduces characters in this novel. Maggie Sims has written a sexy, captivating first romance in a series of untold potential.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Characters: 2.5/5
Setting: 3/5
Writing: 3/5
Overall: 2.5 /5

A rlly minor spoiler in the end

This book reminded me of Fifty Shades of Grey-- still haven't decided if it's a good thing or a bad thing.

Let's start with the writing cause I have a lot to say. First, it's hard to read the 'twould, 'twas, and 'tis . Those words appeared on every page, and it's draining to read. Especially if the writing is inaccurate compared to the British language, they sound like Americans.

I know this book follows the 'traditional' historical romance, but this is ehhh... Don't get me started with the main characters. They stressed me out so much.
I feel like Edward and Sophia have no chemistry at all. Them talking? No. Even in their steamy scenes? None. Just bland.

The two main characters are hard to like. Edward is a cold, asshole, woman-hating love interest. The only personality he has is his spanking kink. His character becomes worse as the book progresses. The FMC is just weird...This scene bothered me so much that I can't even imagine. The FMC, Sophia, watched his cousin have sex and compared it to horses... And she's turned on.

The only good thing about this book is the steamy scenes. But I found myself just skimming through them. Overall, this book is a pass

In this book the American phrases like 'darn it' and also referring to trousers as pants is wrong for the time and the idea of the school for training in pleasing your husband is just ridiculous. Nice attempt to change things up but just not true to the era it's supposed to be set it. Sorry just not for me. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥+
Humor: Just a bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine (pretty evenly split)

Should I read in order?
You can start here, but there’s a lovely prequel novella called Roslynn’s Rebellion that you can read if you sign up for Maggie Sims’ newsletter!

Basic plot:
Sophia comes to stay with her closest family relatives after being orphaned. She can’t seem to stay away from Edward, the family friend, and he can’t seem to keep his hands off her...

Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1816)
- Split between London and country manor
- High steam with 8 full scenes plus plenty of partial scenes – domestic discipline and use of toys
- Plot focus on the characters and their relationship (no mystery to solve or villain)

Ages:
- Didn’t see them mentioned but would guess 20s

My thoughts:
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this story and some I struggled with.

Sophia I really enjoyed. She adores horses and had a close relationship with her father, who worked as a veterinarian. He taught her much of this knowledge and she takes pride into being able to take care of animals in her care. When she goes to live with Nicholas and Roslynn, she witnesses a sexual encounter between them that has extremely curious to experience it for herself. She meets Edward soon after and he quickly finds out she’s interested in the same lifestyle that he craves.

Edward, I struggled with. He has a lot of emotional baggage from his childhood and he’s not very pleasant on a number of occasions. Due to how he was treated as a child, he has a severe mistrust of women – he believes he will never be able to love one as they are vicious and would only hurt him in the end. Part of his insecurity is his severe dyslexia, which affects so many aspects of his life.

Because Edward’s mistrust was so severe, and at a few points his cruelty to Sophia was as well, I was hoping to find a lot more healing for him in the story. I also wanted a longer/better grovel from him. At the end of the story I still can’t say I liked him.

Still, I enjoyed Sims’ writing immensely. She also writes sex scenes with the exact combination of explicit detail and powerful emotional punch I love! I will definitely be trying book 2 in the series and am excited for it.

I like a change-up sometimes and when I am looking for a naughtier book, I gravitate to this type of story. I was so looking forward to a good story. Unfortunately, I got a boring story. To be fair I could only make it through 50% of the book and just couldn’t take anymore. The heroine is so immature. The horse talk at first was sweet but just got to be too much. And Edward, I knew after a couple of chapters I should have quit the book. Why, you ask? Well, he stated he liked to spank to deal with his anger. What? Just no! I feel bad because this author really worked on a story. It just did not work for me.

After the death of her parents, Sophia goes to live with her cousin and his wife. There, she meets his friend Edward. They're immediately attracted, but Edward has very particular tastes. Can this innocent young woman become the submissive wife he needs?

This romance novel is entertaining, well written, and super steamy. Edward is romantic and kind, Sophia eager and curious. The chemistry between them is hot, hot, hot.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Full of Steam!

When Edward the Earl of Peterborough and Sophia his best friends cousin met, Edward immediately wanted her but he had a specific type of need which included spanking and he had a much guarded secret which apart from her cousin Nicholas, he didn’t want anyone to find out and ridicule him which had happened in the past.
Sophia had her eyes opened when she came across her cousin and his wife one night which peaked her interest. In one of her passionate moments with Edward, she mentioned it to him. Edward really surprised didn’t realise that you could combine his sexual preference with a wife and although he didn’t want to get married, after spanking Sophia one evening and compromising her decided that yes they could marry but he would keep close his other secret.
I won’t spoil the story line anymore but the book is FULL of steamy, explicit erotic sexual moments and is not for anyone who likes to read clean and tame romance stories.
I personally really enjoyed the story and all of the steamy moments and loved their HEA and will be reading more from this author.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a fun read I loved the relationship between Sophie and Edward, I couldn't put the book down i wanted to see what would happen between them. Since her father had passed away she went to go live with her cousin. She went to attend a season to find a husband and that is where she met Edward. This man had his secrets this was the reason why I picked up this book to find out his secrets it is what mainly intrigued me into this story.
There was a lot of spice in this story.

Sophia's Schooling is hot!

I must say that first and foremost. But it's also a tender love story of two insecure people finding out how to relate to one another. Sophia is a recently orphaned young woman who becomes the ward of her cousin, the Earl of Suffolk. Sophia is a quiet girl who loves horses and is afraid of abandoment that must now contend with debuting in London society to find a suitable match. Meanwhile, Edward, just elevated to the title of Earl of Peterborough after the untimely death of his older brother, finds himself in need of a wife. A wife with very specific attributes (wink, wink, nudge, nudge). Might his best friend Nicholas' cousin be the right fit?

The attraction between Sophia and Edward is palpable from the start and their sexual compatibility is off the charts, particularly after Sophia is enrolled in The School of Enlightenment. A very special school where women of the era can learn all sorts of scandalous things (!) But Edward has insecurities and secrets of his own that make their journey to love not only steamy hot but also rocky and quite heartfelt. Maggie Sims does a great job of crafting two very compelling characters and making the reader want to root for them. For those that like their Victorian (?) era historical romances hotter than a steam engine, Sophia's Schooling is the book for you!

I love a well-written erotica novel just as much as I love a well-written historical novel. So when presented with the opportunity to read one that promised both? I was like YES PLEASE! However, in my humble opinion, this one was neither, and it left me rather wanting for a lot of different reasons.

For starters, upon the first meeting of our main characters, they become fixated on spanking. For Edward, this makes sense as it has been established that he frequents places that cater to his particular proclivities. For Sophia however, it just came across as weird. She is 18, a gently bred woman looking for a husband, yet she can't stop thinking about getting spanked by a man who she not only just met, but who was also rude to her? But because they have this attraction to each other, and she has a curiosity about spanking (made worse when she spies on his cousin and his wife while they are engaging in sexual acts), they of course can't keep their hands off each other, and of course, he ends up compromising her and forced into marrying her.

I thought maybe once they were married, things would get better, but if anything they got worse. First, Sophia is sent to a school to help women learn how to please men. That's right. In regency England we are expected to believe there is a school where married (or unmarried as most of the women were) young misses were not only taught how to please a man, but forced to touch themselves while in the room with all the other girls. I'm sorry what? Sex was a taboo subject back then, there is no way a school like this would have existed. But of course, Sophia enjoys EVERYTHING she learns, and EVERYTHING her husband does to her, even when it boarders on non-consensual. For example, he decides to "punish" her with a butt plug, and when she makes a noise of complaint he smacks her ass and reminds her to be quiet or she'll make it worse. He then proceeds to tell her, "It shall be easier and less painful if you do not clench, but either way this is going inside you".

I'm sorry what? That is NOT even remotely sexy. But of course, after he smacks her and sticks a plug in her, her bottom starts to burn from the outside "igniting in a burst of love". Whatever that is supposed to mean.

Added to that, there were literally pages going back and forth of the same thing over and over again. Sophia promising to be the "best darned wife" she could be, but vowing not to fall in love with her husband (because everyone she ever loved had left her). Edward meanwhile is lamenting his dark secret (he has trouble reading), and how he just knows he can't fall in love with Sophia because if she learned of his impediment she would surely scorn him like all the other women in his life. Also the back and forth of her wanting to work in the stables and him not letting her.

And if I had to read about Sophia's nipples "hardening to peaks" one more time I swore I was going to throw my kindle. Seriously, they were hard so many times throughout this book, I started to feel even sorrier for the poor girl. I mean she already has no backbone, and was obviously brainwashed by the school and then her husband to feel as though she deserved to be punished when what she did was actually helpful, but then to have to go through life with constantly hard nipples?

Just taking a quick glance at other reviews, it is obvious I am in the minority with my opinions on this one. So if you still want to give it a shot, go for it. I would love to hear what you think about it if you do!

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

A sexy, titillating regency romp! Sophia and Edward find each other while they are both at crossroads in their lives... Sophia wants to find a husband to secure a quiet, comfortable, life in the country among the animals she loves. Edward has unexpectedly become the Earl and must take his place in the House of Lords, a daunting task considering his upbringing as the second and less refined son. I enjoyed that both characters were able to explore what turned them on and while Sophia is the eager student, she also gets her chance to be in charge, too. Both Edward and Sophia have to make big decisions, but they also find ways to have some fun in the process as well. Recommended to readers who enjoy a little kink in their historical romance!