What do you think?
Rate this book
Boscastle #5
The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman
Award-winning author Jillian Hunter pens another deliciously sexy tale of passionate romance and beguiling trickery.
At a glamorous soiree in the romantic English countryside, Lord Devon Boscastle, one of the most elusive bachelors in London, is on the prowl for a willing and wicked lady to share a night of all-consuming sin. So he's delighted to accept a mysterious invitation for a midnight rendezvous.
Miss Jocelyn Lydbury, a demure young debutante, has her heart set on a marriage proposal from a certain respectable gentleman. Invited to a secret tryst at the stroke of twelve, she hopes to finally meet her longtime admirer. To her dismay, it is the heartbreaking Devon who lies in wait for his midnight lady. Before the pair can unmask their deceiver, they are caught in a passionate, if unplanned, embrace and forced into marriage. Although Devon claims he won't change his roguish ways for anyone, upon returning to London he is surprised to find that his once-timid bride has become an alluring temptress. But little does he know that Jocelyn has vowed to tame her handsome rake-in the ballroom and in the bedchamber.
At a glamorous soiree in the romantic English countryside, Lord Devon Boscastle, one of the most elusive bachelors in London, is on the prowl for a willing and wicked lady to share a night of all-consuming sin. So he's delighted to accept a mysterious invitation for a midnight rendezvous.
Miss Jocelyn Lydbury, a demure young debutante, has her heart set on a marriage proposal from a certain respectable gentleman. Invited to a secret tryst at the stroke of twelve, she hopes to finally meet her longtime admirer. To her dismay, it is the heartbreaking Devon who lies in wait for his midnight lady. Before the pair can unmask their deceiver, they are caught in a passionate, if unplanned, embrace and forced into marriage. Although Devon claims he won't change his roguish ways for anyone, upon returning to London he is surprised to find that his once-timid bride has become an alluring temptress. But little does he know that Jocelyn has vowed to tame her handsome rake-in the ballroom and in the bedchamber.
340 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 31, 2006
24 people are currently reading
638 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Hunter
51 books429 followersJillian Hunter is the bestselling author of over twenty historical romances. She lives with her husband, three daughters, a pug and a poodle in Southern California. She loves anyone who can make her laugh, which means she is in love with Mike Myers and Tyler Perry.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 15, 2009
Hunter weaves a masterful tale of seduction and passion in “The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman.” Devon Boscastle is a rakehell who has no desire to settle down and find a wife – until he’s forced into a marriage of convenience with a young debutante, Jocelyn Lydbury. For Devon, there’s nothing as passionate or as sexy than falling in love with his own wife!
The novel opens with Devon attending a social party in Essex. Several games and events are planned, and the party is scheduled to last a week. At the party he encounters a young debutante, Jocelyn Lydbury. Four years ago her father invited Devon to dinner to meet her and Devon stood her up. After all, he has no desire to get married.
Devon trades barbs with Jocelyn and finds her to be enchanting. Later that night, Devon and Jocelyn each receive letters to meet in the castle’s tower – masked. While masked, they share an intimate embrace. It’s then they realize who each other, are and that they didn’t write the letters that lured them to the tower. Too late – Jocelyn’s father, a tyrant of a man, finds the couple in a compromising position and insists they marry.
Devon does the right thing and agrees. Despite himself, Jocelyn has made a dent in his carefully constructed armor. She’s sweet and demur. His heart goes out to her when he discovers how her father has mistreated her. He also finds her inexperience appealing. Throughout the novel, Both Devon and Jocelyn are harassed by minor incidents which are meant to make them look bad, but both rise above the incidents. Devon tries to identify the culprit, but to no avail.
Devon takes his new bride to his house. Their lovemaking is passionate and intense. Devon vows not to take a lover, but it’s hard for him to give up his night owl ways. He spends long hours out of the house, consorting with friends, not really getting to know his wife. Jocelyn is hurt.
Chloe, Devon’s sister, takes Jocelyn out to the park where several young men flirt with her. Devon watches the scene unfold, jealously flaming his disposition. When he discovers his cousin, Gabriel Boscastle, talking to Jocelyn late at night, it’s the last straw for his jealousy. He takes his wife to bed and thoroughly makes love to her. He stops going out with his friends, spending more time with Jocelyn. Still, he’s reluctant to admit to himself that he’s falling in love with her.
Devon’s brother, Grayson, arranges a party for him and Jocelyn. While at the party, Jane, Grayson’s wife, deduces Jocelyn is pregnant. While Jocelyn is in the nursery, she’s kidnapped by a man who hates Devon, Matthew Thurlew. Devon leaves the party to find out who has been harassing him. He discovers it was Thurlew who wrote the letters to him and Jocelyn luring them to the tower. Thurlew hoped the incident would disgrace Devon. When Devon realizes Thurlew is at the party he races back to save Jocelyn. Devon shoots Thurlew. Then he takes Jocelyn home where he admits he loves her.
This is the fifth in the Boscastle romance series, and I’ve enjoyed all the novels so far. I didn’t think I would like this one as much as the previous ones because Devon seems so self-absorbed in the others, but this one really highlighted the complexities of his character. Devon was very likable and romantic. The novel is fast paced and moves quickly. The plot is credible, but there were a couple of holes. Devon and Jocelyn are interesting, but I would have liked to have seen more “bonding” scenes between the couple, especially regarding how Jocelyn’s family treats her. I was also surprised to see that Jocelyn’s father, who insisted on the wedding, wasn’t there. The last “hole” in the plot, is making Thurlew the instigator of the harassing incidents between the couple. It would have made more sense to have Jocelyn’s brother write the notes and be the harasser of the incidents. Not only that, it would have been good fuel for more bonding scenes between Jocelyn and Devon.
The supporting cast is engaging and interesting. Hunter’s love scenes are passionate, yet tasteful; erotic and sensual. The scene where Devon makes love to Jocelyn after finding her with Gabriel is especially erotic and powerful. It’s not just a sex scene, but it’s Devon giving into the love he’s found with Jocelyn.
“The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman,” is a romance that will keep the reader turning the page.
The novel opens with Devon attending a social party in Essex. Several games and events are planned, and the party is scheduled to last a week. At the party he encounters a young debutante, Jocelyn Lydbury. Four years ago her father invited Devon to dinner to meet her and Devon stood her up. After all, he has no desire to get married.
Devon trades barbs with Jocelyn and finds her to be enchanting. Later that night, Devon and Jocelyn each receive letters to meet in the castle’s tower – masked. While masked, they share an intimate embrace. It’s then they realize who each other, are and that they didn’t write the letters that lured them to the tower. Too late – Jocelyn’s father, a tyrant of a man, finds the couple in a compromising position and insists they marry.
Devon does the right thing and agrees. Despite himself, Jocelyn has made a dent in his carefully constructed armor. She’s sweet and demur. His heart goes out to her when he discovers how her father has mistreated her. He also finds her inexperience appealing. Throughout the novel, Both Devon and Jocelyn are harassed by minor incidents which are meant to make them look bad, but both rise above the incidents. Devon tries to identify the culprit, but to no avail.
Devon takes his new bride to his house. Their lovemaking is passionate and intense. Devon vows not to take a lover, but it’s hard for him to give up his night owl ways. He spends long hours out of the house, consorting with friends, not really getting to know his wife. Jocelyn is hurt.
Chloe, Devon’s sister, takes Jocelyn out to the park where several young men flirt with her. Devon watches the scene unfold, jealously flaming his disposition. When he discovers his cousin, Gabriel Boscastle, talking to Jocelyn late at night, it’s the last straw for his jealousy. He takes his wife to bed and thoroughly makes love to her. He stops going out with his friends, spending more time with Jocelyn. Still, he’s reluctant to admit to himself that he’s falling in love with her.
Devon’s brother, Grayson, arranges a party for him and Jocelyn. While at the party, Jane, Grayson’s wife, deduces Jocelyn is pregnant. While Jocelyn is in the nursery, she’s kidnapped by a man who hates Devon, Matthew Thurlew. Devon leaves the party to find out who has been harassing him. He discovers it was Thurlew who wrote the letters to him and Jocelyn luring them to the tower. Thurlew hoped the incident would disgrace Devon. When Devon realizes Thurlew is at the party he races back to save Jocelyn. Devon shoots Thurlew. Then he takes Jocelyn home where he admits he loves her.
This is the fifth in the Boscastle romance series, and I’ve enjoyed all the novels so far. I didn’t think I would like this one as much as the previous ones because Devon seems so self-absorbed in the others, but this one really highlighted the complexities of his character. Devon was very likable and romantic. The novel is fast paced and moves quickly. The plot is credible, but there were a couple of holes. Devon and Jocelyn are interesting, but I would have liked to have seen more “bonding” scenes between the couple, especially regarding how Jocelyn’s family treats her. I was also surprised to see that Jocelyn’s father, who insisted on the wedding, wasn’t there. The last “hole” in the plot, is making Thurlew the instigator of the harassing incidents between the couple. It would have made more sense to have Jocelyn’s brother write the notes and be the harasser of the incidents. Not only that, it would have been good fuel for more bonding scenes between Jocelyn and Devon.
The supporting cast is engaging and interesting. Hunter’s love scenes are passionate, yet tasteful; erotic and sensual. The scene where Devon makes love to Jocelyn after finding her with Gabriel is especially erotic and powerful. It’s not just a sex scene, but it’s Devon giving into the love he’s found with Jocelyn.
“The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman,” is a romance that will keep the reader turning the page.
January 13, 2018
leído en Marzo 2013
Estuvo buena la trama!!
Las Pecaminosas Noches De Un Noble
Argumento:
Durante una encantadora velada en el romántico campo inglés, Lord Devon Boscastle, uno de los más evasivos solteros de Londres, intenta que una dama dispuesta y atrevida quiera compartir una noche de pecado. Así que está encantado de aceptar una misteriosa invitación que le ha llegado para una cita a medianoche.
La señorita Jocelyn Lydbury, una recatada debutante, ha puesto su corazón en la propuesta de matrimonio de cierto caballero respetable. Invitada a una cita secreta, espera finalmente conocer a su admirador por largo tiempo. Para su consternación, es el arrebatador Devon quien está a la espera de su dama de medianoche. Antes de que la pareja pueda desenmascarar quien les ha engañado, son descubiertos en un apasionado abrazo y forzados a contraer matrimonio.
Aunque Devon le deja claro que no cambiará sus costumbres libertinas por nadie, una vez de regreso a Londres se sorprende al descubrir que su tímida esposa se ha convertido en una atractiva tentadora. Pero poco sabe él que Jocelyn ha jurado domar a su hermoso libertino... en el salón de baile y en el dormitorio.
Estuvo buena la trama!!
Las Pecaminosas Noches De Un Noble
Argumento:
Durante una encantadora velada en el romántico campo inglés, Lord Devon Boscastle, uno de los más evasivos solteros de Londres, intenta que una dama dispuesta y atrevida quiera compartir una noche de pecado. Así que está encantado de aceptar una misteriosa invitación que le ha llegado para una cita a medianoche.
La señorita Jocelyn Lydbury, una recatada debutante, ha puesto su corazón en la propuesta de matrimonio de cierto caballero respetable. Invitada a una cita secreta, espera finalmente conocer a su admirador por largo tiempo. Para su consternación, es el arrebatador Devon quien está a la espera de su dama de medianoche. Antes de que la pareja pueda desenmascarar quien les ha engañado, son descubiertos en un apasionado abrazo y forzados a contraer matrimonio.
Aunque Devon le deja claro que no cambiará sus costumbres libertinas por nadie, una vez de regreso a Londres se sorprende al descubrir que su tímida esposa se ha convertido en una atractiva tentadora. Pero poco sabe él que Jocelyn ha jurado domar a su hermoso libertino... en el salón de baile y en el dormitorio.
August 16, 2016
Se lee, pero en comparación a las historias divertidas y smexy que fueron el libro de Grayson o Heath esto no le llega ni por un pelo pero está al nivel de las historias de Chloe o Drake.
Devon junto con Drake era de los Boscastle más mujeriegos y juerguistas, así que imaginen su sorpresa cuando se encuentra comprometido con una mujer que ni "conoce". A simple vista parece la oportunidad perfecta para desarrollar una comedia o un romance lleno de enredos donde los protas comiencen una camaradería que nace de la complicidad de estar de acuerdo en que no están de acuerdo pero no se da. Y no es que Devon o Jocelyn no tengan potencial es solo que están ahí y no hacen nada. Ella muy tranquila con el arreglo y Devon desconcertado pero tirando. Es una historia bien para pasar el rato, pero no es memorable en ningún sentido.
Por ahora, esperando con "ansias" el libro del último de los mayores Boscastle: Emma.
Devon junto con Drake era de los Boscastle más mujeriegos y juerguistas, así que imaginen su sorpresa cuando se encuentra comprometido con una mujer que ni "conoce". A simple vista parece la oportunidad perfecta para desarrollar una comedia o un romance lleno de enredos donde los protas comiencen una camaradería que nace de la complicidad de estar de acuerdo en que no están de acuerdo pero no se da. Y no es que Devon o Jocelyn no tengan potencial es solo que están ahí y no hacen nada. Ella muy tranquila con el arreglo y Devon desconcertado pero tirando. Es una historia bien para pasar el rato, pero no es memorable en ningún sentido.
Por ahora, esperando con "ansias" el libro del último de los mayores Boscastle: Emma.
February 11, 2008
This book was great, I couldn't put it down. It is part of a series and I never knew it, it had a beginning, middle,and end. It told the story of one of the Boscastle men. I can't wait to read about the rest. It reminded me of another favorite Tracy Anne Warren. Jillian writes about London Society as it is in my head. She is highly graffic in the love department and I fell in love with each and every member of the family.
September 8, 2018
I didn't even know what was happening in this book. The writing was so warped that it took time for me to untangle the plots and understand them.
For all the people who loved the book, I have just one question to ask to you. Where was the bloody conversation between Devon and Jocelyn? I didn't know people could converse with one another without bloody talking. What they experienced from the first moment was just lust.
I was disgusted by the premature romance authors . They never share anything of value with each other. And her abusive father just vanishes into thin air after making one appearance. And get this, Devon and Jocelyn NEVER discuss about this. I mean cone on! seriously? He apparently played a trick on a courtesan that was the talk of the town. But, do they talk about it? NOOOOO They do not. Instead they just sleep together and do the dirty.
I understand concepts like love at first sight, marriage of convenience, blah blah blah. I even indulge in them because they are romantic. But what I don't understand is falling in love without talking!!!! Talk you bloody idiots, talk about your feelings, past, fears, dreams. What do they even know about each other to declare ever-lasting love?
Bloody disappointing book. I give a very generous 2 stars because there was this promise to the book that I enjoyed in the first half. Then it started going downhill with record-breaking speed.
My humble request to romance authors. Don't title the book romance if its just erotica. And if you intend the book to be a romance, the least you can do is make the leading characters TALK!!
For all the people who loved the book, I have just one question to ask to you. Where was the bloody conversation between Devon and Jocelyn? I didn't know people could converse with one another without bloody talking. What they experienced from the first moment was just lust.
I was disgusted by the premature romance authors . They never share anything of value with each other. And her abusive father just vanishes into thin air after making one appearance. And get this, Devon and Jocelyn NEVER discuss about this. I mean cone on! seriously? He apparently played a trick on a courtesan that was the talk of the town. But, do they talk about it? NOOOOO They do not. Instead they just sleep together and do the dirty.
I understand concepts like love at first sight, marriage of convenience, blah blah blah. I even indulge in them because they are romantic. But what I don't understand is falling in love without talking!!!! Talk you bloody idiots, talk about your feelings, past, fears, dreams. What do they even know about each other to declare ever-lasting love?
Bloody disappointing book. I give a very generous 2 stars because there was this promise to the book that I enjoyed in the first half. Then it started going downhill with record-breaking speed.
My humble request to romance authors. Don't title the book romance if its just erotica. And if you intend the book to be a romance, the least you can do is make the leading characters TALK!!
May 31, 2024
I WISH I COULD GIVE THIS MORE THAN 5 STARS. I have a new standard in men, if I fall asleep in the carriage on the way home, he must carry me to bed. This book needed to be 700 pages.
February 7, 2016
Oh I liked Devon in the previous books. Of all the Boscastle lot he and Drake seemed to be the genuine rakes as in: epicentres of male egos and sensuality. Particularly Devon was always presented by Hunter as the devil-may-care rogue whose serious sentiments were family-related. But even this consideration not always proved to be an inhibiting factor (his Kissing Highwayman episode bring the proof of that). Devon meant trouble and challenge and I wondered who will Hunter pair him with.
Alas! Jocelyn was never given a chance to show herself a worthy opponent. And I will hold this against you Ms Hunter. Why not allowing her to do so?
Devon and Jocelyn find themselves in a forced marriage. They both enter the holy matrimony considering it a marriage in name only - and it should be so when you have two people who never thought they'd be coerced to spend life together. But if you expect that the novel will take you on a long journey whereby the hero and the heroine slowly discover each other, overcome obstacles and build love on the frail foundation of sexual attraction don't bother reading the book. It never happens.
Devon and Jocelyn get married and then there is the bliss. Just like that. No effort whatsoever. Happy ending. Shame there is still half of the book to go. And surely it is nice, but the nice is insulting since it could have been so much better.
For this reason I will grant no more than 3.5 stars. Devon, my heart is bleeding, you deserved more fun.
Alas! Jocelyn was never given a chance to show herself a worthy opponent. And I will hold this against you Ms Hunter. Why not allowing her to do so?
Devon and Jocelyn find themselves in a forced marriage. They both enter the holy matrimony considering it a marriage in name only - and it should be so when you have two people who never thought they'd be coerced to spend life together. But if you expect that the novel will take you on a long journey whereby the hero and the heroine slowly discover each other, overcome obstacles and build love on the frail foundation of sexual attraction don't bother reading the book. It never happens.
Devon and Jocelyn get married and then there is the bliss. Just like that. No effort whatsoever. Happy ending. Shame there is still half of the book to go. And surely it is nice, but the nice is insulting since it could have been so much better.
For this reason I will grant no more than 3.5 stars. Devon, my heart is bleeding, you deserved more fun.
July 15, 2014
After ditching meeting Jocelyn Lydbury at a dinner given by her father several years earlier, Lord Devon Boscastle, London's most famous rake, was still surprised to see her at the infamous Lord Alton Fershaw's annual house party in the English countryside. Unfortunately, each of them responded to a mysterious invitation to a secret rendezvous at midnight thinking it was for another and got caught before they could unmask who sent them their invitations; they were forced into marriage when they couldn't stand each other. Now, Devon had decided that marriage wouldn't change a thing but Jocelyn had different ideas. As their dance of marriage moves forward along with their desire to unmask who set them up, Devon discovers that he definitely made a mistake by passing up that dinner invitation years before. Will love triumph?
I really enjoyed this book. It's been awhile since I read a book by Jillian Hunter and I always liked her books.
I really enjoyed this book. It's been awhile since I read a book by Jillian Hunter and I always liked her books.
August 13, 2009
I absolutely loved this one too of Devon's story. I loved how simple this was. I was reading from start to finish with rarely putting it down. I have many favorites because the stories are theirs alone, and this is true of this one too! Next up will be Emma's story in THE DEVILISH PLEASURES OF A DUKE.
January 3, 2010
Some great one liners and a some cheeky sexy humor, but for the most part very average. I've wanted to try this author for a few years and glad I gave her a try. I did end up skimming the last 1/3rd of the book as the story was predictable, but it held my interest enough to finish. Not sure if I'll read more by this author, but wont rule it out.
February 28, 2012
A good change-up in plot for this series - they were starting to get a bit stuck with the hero/heroine relationship.
One plothole: why is Jocelyn not more upset that her father and brother back out of attending the wedding at the last minute? She also seems a bit "blah" about the fact that her dad hit her on occasion, too. Hmmm.
One plothole: why is Jocelyn not more upset that her father and brother back out of attending the wedding at the last minute? She also seems a bit "blah" about the fact that her dad hit her on occasion, too. Hmmm.
August 16, 2014
i so wanted to read Devon's perspective ever since i read The Duchess Diaries..
i am a bit disappointed because i expected more of Devon's witty behaviour,,as seen in other books by his interactions..
i am a bit disappointed because i expected more of Devon's witty behaviour,,as seen in other books by his interactions..
January 9, 2009
One word for this book was BORING!! Why do authors think that all they have to do is put sex in every other chapter to make a story. The story line would have been alright if you could get more story and less of where and when the main characters did the deed.
November 12, 2009
This is number 5 in this series i loved it very interesting full of love sex and some drama.
January 22, 2010
Another great book in the series. I like the leading couple.
The story did feel a little rushed at times. And the font was HUGE.
The story did feel a little rushed at times. And the font was HUGE.
August 19, 2010
It had a little of Heaths story in it and a tiny bit of Drakes story in it but a WHOLE lot of Devon alone!!! I love him as much as I love Heath!!!
March 6, 2012
Nice plot - funny and also intriguing.
January 20, 2013
Amazing loved family Boscastel;)*
June 14, 2013
4.5....there isn't a JH book I don't like and I love the Bocastles...period!I cant get enough of them and dread the day when I finish the series.
September 7, 2019
Perhaps the Boscastle’s are the poor man’s version of that Cynster dynasty. Now, I do recognise that I started this series at like, what? the 8th or so book in? I was seriously confused, at first, as to how there were so many Boscastles and if they were all immediate family till I realised this was the prime age of overpopulating.
Unfortunately, the Boscastles were cut-and-dried as they come. Maybe, I’ve come to realise, 35 regency romances in, that I am even more of a snob now than I was at the beginning. At first, I was resolved to only read titled men however now when I say I want a Peer of the Realm (of my 3 cardinal Ps: Peer, Power, Pounds) I truly mean only dukes (preferably), marquess’ or earls. Any short of that and I am profoundly bored. In my defence, I feel as though the peerage status feeds into the amount of power wielded, which then feeds into the propensity to be bored, rakish and wealthy—characterisations that invoke my adoration (what does that say about me). The H in this didn't have anything spare like some money and being born into the gentry but I didn't feel like he wielded enough power to be that big alpha brooding patronising Hero LMAO The H in this book was decidedly boring for a self-proclaimed debauched rake. He fell too hard—too fast—and for a beacon of hedonism, he wasn’t nearly as bored with the fancies of life as I would have liked. Nor did he seem like he indulged in much apart from house parties LMAO.
Maybe it would have been better to begin with a Marquess Boscastle or even a Duke (I saw a couple of dukes slated in this series which then begs the question of how there are so many titles floating around for just one family). The writing was also rather tame. It was neither enthralling, nor contextually perfect, however its one redeeming point was that it wasn’t horrid like those pillars of ahistorical fiction (they know who they are !) It was simply decent enough to garner enough interest, albeit lacklustre, till the end. That being said, I do question the amount of ahistorical attitudes, and lack of adherences to custom, as they were quite chilled by the lack of propensity and the rush wedding and the absence of a special license. And maybe it's cause it's not old sport's book, but the Marquess who is touted as the head of the family did not seem nearly as foreboding enough to be wielding any sort of power.
Look, the biggest downfall of this book—that was neither horrid nor bewitching—was the fact that it was just dull. And for a compromised!marriage-of-convenience plot to be a bore truly takes a feat in my eyes. I pin it on the dry characterisation of the H/h. We were told they were charming! Natural temptress for the h, rakish charisma for the H, but to be honest, it didn’t read like that. They didn’t verbally joust, they weren’t witty and I didn’t find anything tempting in the way they conducted themselves at all, spare all that crazy sex HAHAHA. They kept going on and on about how they needed each other but it never felt palpable because the characters themselves weren’t developed enough for the audience to even be swayed by the I love you. In fact, it felt like the h just woke up one day and said fuck it, I think I’ll love him! A first class rake! Who’s done scant a thing to deserve it. The villain was another zealous religious fanatical who wasn't even given the time of day, spare as a backdrop to the H/h romping their way through the marriage bed (trust me to read two back to back histo/romances with the same kind of villain, it really makes my comparisons even harsher). And look, you can’t do one of those family-first ensemble books where you chuck in like the 10 characters that have already had their own books ahead of this and have them be cookie cutter dry cut characters as well! Now I have no inclination to read the other books because they all seem like borefests.
If its going to be a congregation of alpha egos and amplified sexuality, you’ve got to at least make them witty to offset the misogyny. There was nothing sinful about this prosaic, acquiescent to the proverbial matrimonial noose—purely on the basis of passion evoked by some kisses and a couple of gropes—and lowkey patronising book.
Unfortunately, the Boscastles were cut-and-dried as they come. Maybe, I’ve come to realise, 35 regency romances in, that I am even more of a snob now than I was at the beginning. At first, I was resolved to only read titled men however now when I say I want a Peer of the Realm (of my 3 cardinal Ps: Peer, Power, Pounds) I truly mean only dukes (preferably), marquess’ or earls. Any short of that and I am profoundly bored. In my defence, I feel as though the peerage status feeds into the amount of power wielded, which then feeds into the propensity to be bored, rakish and wealthy—characterisations that invoke my adoration (what does that say about me). The H in this didn't have anything spare like some money and being born into the gentry but I didn't feel like he wielded enough power to be that big alpha brooding patronising Hero LMAO The H in this book was decidedly boring for a self-proclaimed debauched rake. He fell too hard—too fast—and for a beacon of hedonism, he wasn’t nearly as bored with the fancies of life as I would have liked. Nor did he seem like he indulged in much apart from house parties LMAO.
Maybe it would have been better to begin with a Marquess Boscastle or even a Duke (I saw a couple of dukes slated in this series which then begs the question of how there are so many titles floating around for just one family). The writing was also rather tame. It was neither enthralling, nor contextually perfect, however its one redeeming point was that it wasn’t horrid like those pillars of ahistorical fiction (they know who they are !) It was simply decent enough to garner enough interest, albeit lacklustre, till the end. That being said, I do question the amount of ahistorical attitudes, and lack of adherences to custom, as they were quite chilled by the lack of propensity and the rush wedding and the absence of a special license. And maybe it's cause it's not old sport's book, but the Marquess who is touted as the head of the family did not seem nearly as foreboding enough to be wielding any sort of power.
Look, the biggest downfall of this book—that was neither horrid nor bewitching—was the fact that it was just dull. And for a compromised!marriage-of-convenience plot to be a bore truly takes a feat in my eyes. I pin it on the dry characterisation of the H/h. We were told they were charming! Natural temptress for the h, rakish charisma for the H, but to be honest, it didn’t read like that. They didn’t verbally joust, they weren’t witty and I didn’t find anything tempting in the way they conducted themselves at all, spare all that crazy sex HAHAHA. They kept going on and on about how they needed each other but it never felt palpable because the characters themselves weren’t developed enough for the audience to even be swayed by the I love you. In fact, it felt like the h just woke up one day and said fuck it, I think I’ll love him! A first class rake! Who’s done scant a thing to deserve it. The villain was another zealous religious fanatical who wasn't even given the time of day, spare as a backdrop to the H/h romping their way through the marriage bed (trust me to read two back to back histo/romances with the same kind of villain, it really makes my comparisons even harsher). And look, you can’t do one of those family-first ensemble books where you chuck in like the 10 characters that have already had their own books ahead of this and have them be cookie cutter dry cut characters as well! Now I have no inclination to read the other books because they all seem like borefests.
If its going to be a congregation of alpha egos and amplified sexuality, you’ve got to at least make them witty to offset the misogyny. There was nothing sinful about this prosaic, acquiescent to the proverbial matrimonial noose—purely on the basis of passion evoked by some kisses and a couple of gropes—and lowkey patronising book.
January 18, 2021
Another satisfying Boscastle romance
4 stars
Devon Boscastle is one of the most elusive bachelors of the ton. He's also one of the most wicked and decadent. At a garden party in the country, he's determined to find an equally wicked lady for a midnight rendezvous.
By some stroke of fate instead he finds innocent Jocelyn Lydbury, who has come to the party in the hope of a proposal from a respectable gentleman. Being found in a compromising position was not in either of their plans.
Forced into marriage is not the best start for the pair but it soon becomes clear to Devon that his sweet, unassuming wife can also be a tempting seductress. And while he is determined to maintain his bachelor lifestyle, she is equally determined to win his heart.
This is the fifth book in the Boscastle family series this time focussing on the young, devilish Devon. Most of the characters from previous books do appear in this one yet there is no need to have read any of the previous Boscastle novels for this one to make sense.
I am very much a fan of the 'marriage of convenience that turns to love' storyline and this one did not disappoint. Devon is a devilish rascal who is the perfect hero as he lives his life of excess and debauchery. To see him brought down by love is amusing, romantic and oh so satisfying. Jocelyn is his perfect foil - an innocent miss with a backbone and sharp wit. I enjoyed reading about her and was happy to root for her in her pursuit of Devon's heart.
The book was enjoyably sensual and Devon and Jocelyn had some sparkling chemistry throughout the book. The mystery sub-plot isn't too mysterious but then it's the romance that we're supposed to focus on, so that's not really a problem.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable addition to the Boscastle series with endearing characters and some good, old-fashioned romance. If you're looking for a Regency romance to take your mind off things for a while then you can't go wrong with this book. 4 stars.
July 3, 2019
A Good 3.5
This is my first Jillian Hunter book. I must admit I read the reviews and there’s something about the extreme dislike and extreme like reviews that sort of made me want to find out for myself how I would rate the book. I bought this earlier in the day and finished it within the day. The storyline may not be the most original (rake and innocent virgin caught in a compromising situation and forced to wed) but it is well-written.
What I think this story needed for me to fully appreciate it is more depth to the hero and heroine and their interactions. The first part of the story (and liberally mentioned all throughout) gives great emphasis to how the hero is such a womanizer and seducer. And how his family is infamous and his own exploits. I think that is the extent of how the hero was described in terms of character and personality. He did develop a little in terms of falling in love with his unchosen wife. The heroine is the pretty wallflower. She is witty and honest and direct. I like the hero and heroine’s humor and banter. I also liked the level of maturity of the heroine. I just did not feel the strength of the hero and heroine’s connection. When they got married it was as if the author just skimmed over their life on a daily basis but there were no truly meaningful and deep interactions that would have given more credibility to their journey to love. There was an element of mystery and danger so that added to the romance. At the very last few pages the hero and heroine did profess the depth of their feelings to each other. I just wish there was an epilogue.
This is my first Jillian Hunter book. I must admit I read the reviews and there’s something about the extreme dislike and extreme like reviews that sort of made me want to find out for myself how I would rate the book. I bought this earlier in the day and finished it within the day. The storyline may not be the most original (rake and innocent virgin caught in a compromising situation and forced to wed) but it is well-written.
What I think this story needed for me to fully appreciate it is more depth to the hero and heroine and their interactions. The first part of the story (and liberally mentioned all throughout) gives great emphasis to how the hero is such a womanizer and seducer. And how his family is infamous and his own exploits. I think that is the extent of how the hero was described in terms of character and personality. He did develop a little in terms of falling in love with his unchosen wife. The heroine is the pretty wallflower. She is witty and honest and direct. I like the hero and heroine’s humor and banter. I also liked the level of maturity of the heroine. I just did not feel the strength of the hero and heroine’s connection. When they got married it was as if the author just skimmed over their life on a daily basis but there were no truly meaningful and deep interactions that would have given more credibility to their journey to love. There was an element of mystery and danger so that added to the romance. At the very last few pages the hero and heroine did profess the depth of their feelings to each other. I just wish there was an epilogue.
January 19, 2018
No esperaba gran cosa y obtuve una agradable sorpresa.
Cuando nos presentan a los personajes, nos dicen que él la rechazo unos años antes, que ella era solterona, una florero que jamás brilló en la temporada...temí lo peor. Imaginé que era como tantas protagonistas que suspiran y languidecen por el libertino del que se enamoraron ¡y nada que ver! La propia Jocelyn dice que la decepción se la llevó su padre, no ella.
Jocelyn ha crecido con un padre violento y sabe que el único escape que le queda es un matrimonio, pero como una mujer de la época se jugaba todo su destino a una carta, solo confiaba en casarse con un buen hombre. El amor le es indiferente, solo espera no acabar con alguien como su padre. Y ahí entra Devon, el clásico libertino de estas historias.
Es cierto que los personajes son un tanto planos, sobre todo Devon, pero la historia sorprende por su planteamiento y un poco por el final, es en la interacción del matrimonio cuando se estanca y la autora no sabe muy bien cómo avanzar.
Me gusta la naturalidad con la que presenta las escenas de sexo, ni tan sórdido como algunas ni tan endulzadas como otras.
Una bocanada agradable.
Cuando nos presentan a los personajes, nos dicen que él la rechazo unos años antes, que ella era solterona, una florero que jamás brilló en la temporada...temí lo peor. Imaginé que era como tantas protagonistas que suspiran y languidecen por el libertino del que se enamoraron ¡y nada que ver! La propia Jocelyn dice que la decepción se la llevó su padre, no ella.
Jocelyn ha crecido con un padre violento y sabe que el único escape que le queda es un matrimonio, pero como una mujer de la época se jugaba todo su destino a una carta, solo confiaba en casarse con un buen hombre. El amor le es indiferente, solo espera no acabar con alguien como su padre. Y ahí entra Devon, el clásico libertino de estas historias.
Es cierto que los personajes son un tanto planos, sobre todo Devon, pero la historia sorprende por su planteamiento y un poco por el final, es en la interacción del matrimonio cuando se estanca y la autora no sabe muy bien cómo avanzar.
Me gusta la naturalidad con la que presenta las escenas de sexo, ni tan sórdido como algunas ni tan endulzadas como otras.
Una bocanada agradable.
March 21, 2024
Both Demon Boscastle and Jocelyn Lydbury attended Lord Alton Fernshaw's annual party, but whereas Demon projected a devil may care and an a little playful attitude towards Jocelyn, Jocelyn was mocking and resentful towards him. Six years ago, her cruel father had invited Demon to dinner for the purpose of suggesting a marriage between him and Jocelyn, and Devon failed to show up or send a proper apology! Jocelyn attended the party for Adam, whom she suspected would propose to her soon. Therefore, when a message was sent to her for a tryst, she didn't have any doubt it was from Adam! Unfotunately, a masked Demon met her and tried to seduce her, and to their both utter dismay, they were discovered by her own brother and then father and they were left with no choice but to get engaged to marry within a week!
It's an okay pass-time book. Can't say I felt anything special for the characters. The story is fine, but not memorable.
It's an okay pass-time book. Can't say I felt anything special for the characters. The story is fine, but not memorable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
This book is one of the Boscastle Series, but I'm not sure which one. "The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman" is the story of Lord Devon Boscastle, a handsome rake, and Miss Jocelyn Lydbury. Jocelyn has a previous acquaintance with Devon, and still harbors some feelings from that past (which we are not told about in any detail - I'm assuming possibly it's in one of the other books?). They meet again at a rather risque party, and due to some devious planning by the villain, they end up compromised and forced to marry. This is one of the most emotionless romance novels I've ever read. There is no chemistry between the hero and heroine, and the book is badly written so that everything feels kind of fakey and leading towards the sex scenes. The underlying plot device is cheesy, and you really never feel anything for either character. Don't waste your time.
October 26, 2021
I started out quite liking this book. An irreverent rake and a faintly witty heroine. But somewhere along the way, this book lost me. It was insta-love/lust (one of my least favorite tropes) and it kind of felt like the writer was shuffling them onto the path of love because that’s where they had to go. One of the biggest flaws was how vaguely the heroine’s personality was written - she is a bit wishy-washy, in turns blunt and outspoken then becoming meek and quiet the next. She didn’t feel like a real person coming off the pages, she felt very much like a character in a novel who had to be moved along. She was what she needed to be in that part of the novel which isn’t good characterization.
kinda meh.
kinda meh.
April 28, 2019
Read 2019. Romantic. Little erotica. Historical. New author for 2019.
As I am writing the review I have read books 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 and all have been fast reads. Great books.
Just loved the book about Devon as he has found his match in every way as he decides he truly is in love with his wife.
Read in Order: YES, you need to read in order. Since all of the characters continue in all of the books since it is about the Boscastle family and all the ins and outs of their lives.
Looking forward to reading all of them. . .
As I am writing the review I have read books 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5 and all have been fast reads. Great books.
Just loved the book about Devon as he has found his match in every way as he decides he truly is in love with his wife.
Read in Order: YES, you need to read in order. Since all of the characters continue in all of the books since it is about the Boscastle family and all the ins and outs of their lives.
Looking forward to reading all of them. . .
January 16, 2020
Being home for Christmas in my old childhood (well sort of) room and having access to my old bookshelf has meant a trip down (book) memory lane as I try to recall which books I’ve actually read on my shelf and which have been gathering dust for years (or a decade or two).
Romance novels have been especially tricky given the sheer number one can get through. This novel was one I only vaguely remember reading so I decided to read it again. I can’t say I remember much more than vague flashes of this (or it could have been another in the series as the characters are familiar).
Published in 2006, this book feels more dated than it should. It feels a lot like Cynster Series by Stephanie Laurens or Malory Series by Johanna Lindsey with a family full of alpha men who are strong, sexy, and very much into their women.
Now there is nothing wrong with the trope; in fact it remains one of my favourites. Johanna Lindsey started her family series in 1986 which reflects the longevity of the troupe of strong brothers in romance series. However, there was something about this book which didn’t capture me. I think the bigger issue is that the lead couple are not evenly matched. The hero is quite well drawn out, with a sense of humour and over-developed possessive streak. He is a “wit” and a “rake” but comes across as quite charming. The heroine though is a bit of a non-entity. She has the requisite bad childhood story but it hardly matters to the novel. The blurb promised more agency from her but her “seduction” of her husband hardly mattered to the overall story (or took up much page time) I think this is symptomatic of the issue with the book - nothing much seems to matter. The story beats are all there - forced marriage after a scandal, a reformed rake, a mystery - but nothing really came together.
This was cute more than good. Perhaps my issues are to do with the fact that this book was the 5th in a series and the glimpses of the other brothers and references to their love-stories irked instead of added. I am going to go back and try reading the series from book 1 to see if that helps.
Romance novels have been especially tricky given the sheer number one can get through. This novel was one I only vaguely remember reading so I decided to read it again. I can’t say I remember much more than vague flashes of this (or it could have been another in the series as the characters are familiar).
Published in 2006, this book feels more dated than it should. It feels a lot like Cynster Series by Stephanie Laurens or Malory Series by Johanna Lindsey with a family full of alpha men who are strong, sexy, and very much into their women.
Now there is nothing wrong with the trope; in fact it remains one of my favourites. Johanna Lindsey started her family series in 1986 which reflects the longevity of the troupe of strong brothers in romance series. However, there was something about this book which didn’t capture me. I think the bigger issue is that the lead couple are not evenly matched. The hero is quite well drawn out, with a sense of humour and over-developed possessive streak. He is a “wit” and a “rake” but comes across as quite charming. The heroine though is a bit of a non-entity. She has the requisite bad childhood story but it hardly matters to the novel. The blurb promised more agency from her but her “seduction” of her husband hardly mattered to the overall story (or took up much page time) I think this is symptomatic of the issue with the book - nothing much seems to matter. The story beats are all there - forced marriage after a scandal, a reformed rake, a mystery - but nothing really came together.
This was cute more than good. Perhaps my issues are to do with the fact that this book was the 5th in a series and the glimpses of the other brothers and references to their love-stories irked instead of added. I am going to go back and try reading the series from book 1 to see if that helps.
January 7, 2020
I made it to age 34. Can't read further. Neither the hero nor the heroine are the least bit engaging. The dialogue is supposed to be witty and full of chemistry, but to me it falls flat. The theme of "Did I not dance with you in Brabant once?" (Much Ado), doesn't work here.
March 19, 2019
Pretty good. I loved that Devon never blamed Jocelyn for trapping him or anything like that. The only thing that fell flat for me is the villain. It felt like an afterthought.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews