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Boats in the Night
Like two ships passing in the night--if one was a narrowboat and the other a luxury yacht.
Disgraced private school teacher Giles Rathbourne has been sent home on extended sick-leave and is stuck in a rut of obsessive housework and drinking. His ex may have been a snobbish bastard, but without him, Giles is adrift, rattling around his huge, lonely house. When a dreadlocked narrowboater’s engine breaks down at the end of his canal-side garden, Giles is furious at this invasion of his privacy—for a while.
Smutty might not have ever held down a proper job, but the fire-dancing, free-spirited traveller can recognise an opportunity for mutual benefit when he sees it. Giles’ extensive gardens are in as desperate need of attention as the upper-class hunk is himself, whereas Smutty knows a thing or two about plants and needs a place to moor up.
A simple business arrangement between two men who have nothing else in common? It would be—if they could keep their hands off each other!
Disgraced private school teacher Giles Rathbourne has been sent home on extended sick-leave and is stuck in a rut of obsessive housework and drinking. His ex may have been a snobbish bastard, but without him, Giles is adrift, rattling around his huge, lonely house. When a dreadlocked narrowboater’s engine breaks down at the end of his canal-side garden, Giles is furious at this invasion of his privacy—for a while.
Smutty might not have ever held down a proper job, but the fire-dancing, free-spirited traveller can recognise an opportunity for mutual benefit when he sees it. Giles’ extensive gardens are in as desperate need of attention as the upper-class hunk is himself, whereas Smutty knows a thing or two about plants and needs a place to moor up.
A simple business arrangement between two men who have nothing else in common? It would be—if they could keep their hands off each other!
160 pages, ebook
First published November 15, 2011
3 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Josephine Myles
66 books651 followersEnglish through and through, Josephine Myles is addicted to tea and busy cultivating a reputation for eccentricity. She writes gay erotica and romance, but finds the erotica keeps cuddling up to the romance, and the romance keeps corrupting the erotica. She blames her rebellious muse but he never listens to her anyway, no matter how much she threatens him with a big stick. She's beginning to suspect he enjoys it.
***
Note to readers: I don't read reviews of my stories on here anymore, as I think they're geared for other readers, not the writers (plus I'm chicken and would rather stick my fingers in my ears going "la-la-la"). If you'd like to let me know what you thought about any of my stories, please PM me or send me an email. I'd be very happy to hear from you :)
***
Note to readers: I don't read reviews of my stories on here anymore, as I think they're geared for other readers, not the writers (plus I'm chicken and would rather stick my fingers in my ears going "la-la-la"). If you'd like to let me know what you thought about any of my stories, please PM me or send me an email. I'd be very happy to hear from you :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 1, 2012
^^ I REALLY LOVE THIS BOOK!^^
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
4.5
I often times start reading a book without expecting anything extraordinary, the blurb sounds interesting and I say to myself “yep, go ahead and read it”. In most circumstances, the book is just an all right read, and then you have those other times when you get so much more than expected. This time was one of those, Boats in the Night captured a piece if me. Miss Myles writing is superb and honest, the characters are flawed and I find that simply perfect. It was a surprise how much I loved the characters and the story, and kept thinking about them long after I had finished reading about them.
Giles Rathbourne is trying to get back on track after coming out of a bad relationship and bad break-up. He is one drink away from being an alcoholic, and he recently flipped on his co-workers. So facing no job, no boyfriend the drink is sounding very good. Giles lives in his childhood home that has view of the British Canal, and its high living (aka, he’s a bit of a snob). Feeling down and alone, Giles has pretty much had it, until the rumbling of a narrow boat comes a knocking at his backdoor (not as pervy as it sounds).
Smutty is a traveler, what you would call a free spirit. He is fire dancer, which earned him the nickname Smutty, cus he’s ashy and dirty when he’s done but it could be cus he’s a very dirty boy. Though he’s all carefree, Smutty has had his share of experiences some good and others very bad. He keeps on smiling and living, never staying in one place for a lengthy periods of time. Until his eyes land on the uptight and haughty Giles, the man looks likes he needs saving and Smutty feels like he should be the one to do it though it might not be the best idea.
The theme here is opposites attracts. Giles and Smutty are as different as night and day which creates the perfect balance. Where Giles has had only one serious relationship with his douche bag of an ex. Smutty has been there, done that and something else. The two together is written splendidly, I could not put the book down. Every character introduced holds your attention, even the ever present asshole that is Fabian (Giles’s ex). He is the person you hate and hope to meet on the street corner in hopes that a bus would accidentally drive by and hit him (maybe that’s just me). The contrast between Giles’s now lover and then lover is a major change.
The writing moves with wicked fluidity and I was entertained through out, Smutty is one of my new fave characters. He is honest and just says everything like it is. No mincing of the words. Giles was annoying in the beginning but as the book went on, I really liked him. Hanging with Fabian the fake made him prickly, so I can forgive him.
I only have one beef with this book, and it’s the little twist offered up in the ending (highly predictable). I was hoping and praying that the author would not go there but I am a sinner so my prayers went unanswered. I did not like it at all! Talk about an unnecessary turn of events. Plus, I just cannot see Smutty being friends/lovers with someone so rotten. Not a shining part of the book, ruined what could have been deemed perfection by me.
Overall, I really loved this one, and Ms Myles just made it on my must authors to read list. It’s a refreshing romance about the two least likely people to fall in love. Smutty and Giles together are hot as hell but sweet as can be. I guarantee a pants losing.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
4.5
I often times start reading a book without expecting anything extraordinary, the blurb sounds interesting and I say to myself “yep, go ahead and read it”. In most circumstances, the book is just an all right read, and then you have those other times when you get so much more than expected. This time was one of those, Boats in the Night captured a piece if me. Miss Myles writing is superb and honest, the characters are flawed and I find that simply perfect. It was a surprise how much I loved the characters and the story, and kept thinking about them long after I had finished reading about them.
Giles Rathbourne is trying to get back on track after coming out of a bad relationship and bad break-up. He is one drink away from being an alcoholic, and he recently flipped on his co-workers. So facing no job, no boyfriend the drink is sounding very good. Giles lives in his childhood home that has view of the British Canal, and its high living (aka, he’s a bit of a snob). Feeling down and alone, Giles has pretty much had it, until the rumbling of a narrow boat comes a knocking at his backdoor (not as pervy as it sounds).
Smutty is a traveler, what you would call a free spirit. He is fire dancer, which earned him the nickname Smutty, cus he’s ashy and dirty when he’s done but it could be cus he’s a very dirty boy. Though he’s all carefree, Smutty has had his share of experiences some good and others very bad. He keeps on smiling and living, never staying in one place for a lengthy periods of time. Until his eyes land on the uptight and haughty Giles, the man looks likes he needs saving and Smutty feels like he should be the one to do it though it might not be the best idea.
The theme here is opposites attracts. Giles and Smutty are as different as night and day which creates the perfect balance. Where Giles has had only one serious relationship with his douche bag of an ex. Smutty has been there, done that and something else. The two together is written splendidly, I could not put the book down. Every character introduced holds your attention, even the ever present asshole that is Fabian (Giles’s ex). He is the person you hate and hope to meet on the street corner in hopes that a bus would accidentally drive by and hit him (maybe that’s just me). The contrast between Giles’s now lover and then lover is a major change.
The writing moves with wicked fluidity and I was entertained through out, Smutty is one of my new fave characters. He is honest and just says everything like it is. No mincing of the words. Giles was annoying in the beginning but as the book went on, I really liked him. Hanging with Fabian the fake made him prickly, so I can forgive him.
I only have one beef with this book, and it’s the little twist offered up in the ending (highly predictable). I was hoping and praying that the author would not go there but I am a sinner so my prayers went unanswered. I did not like it at all! Talk about an unnecessary turn of events. Plus, I just cannot see Smutty being friends/lovers with someone so rotten. Not a shining part of the book, ruined what could have been deemed perfection by me.
Overall, I really loved this one, and Ms Myles just made it on my must authors to read list. It’s a refreshing romance about the two least likely people to fall in love. Smutty and Giles together are hot as hell but sweet as can be. I guarantee a pants losing.
December 16, 2011
This book reminded me of the Timotei commercials of yore. Of course, some dweeb has felt an urge to put those on youtube, so even if you did not live in Europe in the eighties, here is your chance to catch up:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGog72...
There is a bit less sweeping of the long blond hair, of course, but the whole sweet, syrupy corny feel is there. This book is so mild you can wash your hair with it as often as you wish!
No seriously (I'll try, anyway), everything bad that happens to the MCs in this book is already in the past. Whatever residual issues they have from these past traumas get solved by meeting the right penis. Whatever internal conflict they manage to dredge up gets put to rest within a sentence or two. 'Oh noes, he had been afraid of topping a guy since his traumatic experiences 19 years ago..... okay,maybe it was time to let it go and try again'. 'Oh noes, Smutty didn't want to stay with him..... well, he'd better make the best of the time they had left then'. Personally, I think it is an authors job to make life hard for their characters, but that is just me. Giles threatens to fall again for his manipulative ex for all of 5 seconds. Even Giles' incipient alcoholism gets cured instantly by Smutty's date rape sob story.
Take a good look at these MCs and why they fall in love.... Giles is a doormat and has been without his lover of several years for all of four alcohol drenched weeks. Here comes Smutty with his weed salads and herbal teas and Giles is all ready to roll over and beg again. Smutty on the other hand falls in love with Giles-the-doormat because nobody has ever fallen in love with Smutty before. Can you spell c-o-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-c-y?
Add to this heady mix some stunning, stunning coincidences that would not out of place in an opera, to add some melodrama and there you have it: Boats in the Night. In which no boats actually move around on water. Let alone at night.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGog72...
There is a bit less sweeping of the long blond hair, of course, but the whole sweet, syrupy corny feel is there. This book is so mild you can wash your hair with it as often as you wish!
No seriously (I'll try, anyway), everything bad that happens to the MCs in this book is already in the past. Whatever residual issues they have from these past traumas get solved by meeting the right penis. Whatever internal conflict they manage to dredge up gets put to rest within a sentence or two. 'Oh noes, he had been afraid of topping a guy since his traumatic experiences 19 years ago..... okay,maybe it was time to let it go and try again'. 'Oh noes, Smutty didn't want to stay with him..... well, he'd better make the best of the time they had left then'. Personally, I think it is an authors job to make life hard for their characters, but that is just me. Giles threatens to fall again for his manipulative ex for all of 5 seconds. Even Giles' incipient alcoholism gets cured instantly by Smutty's date rape sob story.
Take a good look at these MCs and why they fall in love.... Giles is a doormat and has been without his lover of several years for all of four alcohol drenched weeks. Here comes Smutty with his weed salads and herbal teas and Giles is all ready to roll over and beg again. Smutty on the other hand falls in love with Giles-the-doormat because nobody has ever fallen in love with Smutty before. Can you spell c-o-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-c-y?
Add to this heady mix some stunning, stunning coincidences that would not out of place in an opera, to add some melodrama and there you have it: Boats in the Night. In which no boats actually move around on water. Let alone at night.
August 31, 2012
I had to stop and think about the rating of this book if I could it would be 3.5 stars but 3 will suffice.
THE GOOD
Firstly, I do have a big soft spot for M/M books. Ms Myles writing was to the point and the editing was good, so were the lack of typos making me a happy reader. The language was excellent and the story was nice. The setting was pretty, to me Giles' home, Nunnery House, sounded lovely. As a keen gardener I loved the gardening aspect of the book and how grounded that made the two of them as a couple. Giles was stuffy, had been easily manipulated and made to feel less than attractive or useful by his ex. He was also drinking too much and was terribly lonely. Having said this, he was a nice person, not bogged down in depression or self pity, so I liked him. Smutty was an innocent, naive man who seemed younger than his years and was used to a gypsy lifestyle. Once again he was a nice man who always tried to look on the positive side of life. Basically, his mum's motto was strangers are just friends you haven't met yet, which he lived his life by. They formed a nice relationship which made me feel glad for them.
THE NOT SO GOOD
Smutty as a name didn't grab me, sorry, for mine it was just off-putting. The word that I use to describe both characters is "nice" and that extended to their sexual exchanges, there was minimal heat between the two. I need sexual heat and zing in this genre, it just wasn't happening here. The characters needed some more fleshing out before they got together, it happened a little too quickly and too easily, and when it did, it didn't happen frequently enough. For a character that was a heartbeat away from alcoholism Giles gave up the grog straightaway, and that's just not realistic. I also had the ending worked out very quickly and hoped it didn't go that way, alas, it did.
In the wrap up, I would definitely read more of Josephine Myles books, as her writing style is very neat and stylish, plus the characters and backdrop of this story were enjoyable. Sometimes it's nice to read a story without really heinous characters, Fabian was a painful drip, but not evil, so this book was an easy read. I will add Ms Myles to my reading list.
THE GOOD
Firstly, I do have a big soft spot for M/M books. Ms Myles writing was to the point and the editing was good, so were the lack of typos making me a happy reader. The language was excellent and the story was nice. The setting was pretty, to me Giles' home, Nunnery House, sounded lovely. As a keen gardener I loved the gardening aspect of the book and how grounded that made the two of them as a couple. Giles was stuffy, had been easily manipulated and made to feel less than attractive or useful by his ex. He was also drinking too much and was terribly lonely. Having said this, he was a nice person, not bogged down in depression or self pity, so I liked him. Smutty was an innocent, naive man who seemed younger than his years and was used to a gypsy lifestyle. Once again he was a nice man who always tried to look on the positive side of life. Basically, his mum's motto was strangers are just friends you haven't met yet, which he lived his life by. They formed a nice relationship which made me feel glad for them.
THE NOT SO GOOD
Smutty as a name didn't grab me, sorry, for mine it was just off-putting. The word that I use to describe both characters is "nice" and that extended to their sexual exchanges, there was minimal heat between the two. I need sexual heat and zing in this genre, it just wasn't happening here. The characters needed some more fleshing out before they got together, it happened a little too quickly and too easily, and when it did, it didn't happen frequently enough. For a character that was a heartbeat away from alcoholism Giles gave up the grog straightaway, and that's just not realistic. I also had the ending worked out very quickly and hoped it didn't go that way, alas, it did.
In the wrap up, I would definitely read more of Josephine Myles books, as her writing style is very neat and stylish, plus the characters and backdrop of this story were enjoyable. Sometimes it's nice to read a story without really heinous characters, Fabian was a painful drip, but not evil, so this book was an easy read. I will add Ms Myles to my reading list.
Read
November 16, 2011This novella was written as a serial on my blog, and that version can still be read for free online here. However, the ebook version has been fully revised and edited.
December 6, 2011
Originally posted at Romance Around the Corner
I know what you’re going to say, another British m/m author? Well, yes! I’m on a binge and I’m loving every part of it. There’s something about British writers that’s quite unique, not just m/m authors but romance in general, and Ms. Myles is one of them. Maybe you have heard of her before because her novel Barging In made the rounds in a lot of review blogs and everyone had nice things to say about it, so when I was presented with the opportunity to read this novella I jumped right in.
Giles Rathbourne is a rich schoolteacher who’s going through a rough patch. His long-time boyfriend left him, he is suddenly alone in a house full of memories, he is teetering on the edge of alcoholism and he’s on an extended sick-leave from work. Needless to say, he’s feeling miserable.
One morning a narrowboat breaks down in the part of the canal adjacent to his garden. The owner of the boat is a dreadlocked, tattooed hippie named Smutty. Since Smutty needs a place to keep his boat while he fix it and Giles is lonely, they strike a bargain, Smutty will help take care of Giles’ garden in exchange of a free stay for as long as he needs.
These two guys could not be more different from each other. Smutty has a sunny and positive take on life whereas Giles is pessimistic and cynic. They feel a strong attraction and even deeper connection so it doesn’t take long before they become friends and lovers. But they have a lot of issues to overcome in order to get their happily ever after, so it won’t be an easy road.
I love opposites attract stories, and this one is exactly that. Giles was a straight-laced and spoiled man on the verge of self-destruction. He wasn't depressing though, and neither was Smutty, although both characters had dark and painful pasts. He was very likeable even though he had a fair amount of unlikeable traits, he was prejudiced, a neat-freak, depressed and a bit lazy. Once he meets Smutty, though, he starts to see himself under a different light and he realizes that he needs to change.
The romance was believable even though it takes place during a short time period, I felt like both Smutty and Giles were in need of love, support and companionship. They were lonely in different ways and that’s why they just click, I could just see them as lovers but also as friends.
I had one big issue with this book and it was the ending, it took me completely by surprise and not in a good way. It involves Giles’ ex-boyfriend and I won’t go into details as to not spoil the plot twist, but I do want to say that I was very disappointed by him. At first I thought that they were going to be a realistic ex-couple, one in which both parts were good and bad, and equally responsible in the ending of the relationship. But no, it turns out that the ex was an evil cartoon villain, crazy and one of those guy that make you wonder how no one realized how insane he was. I mean, Giles lived with him and he never saw any of this? I don’t buy it. I felt this last conflict was unnecessary for the plot, the book was fine just being about the leads finding happiness and dealing with their issues. By the end of the book everything is magically resolved and they never even addressed Giles drinking problem again. This annoyed me because up until that point the story was fantastic, I was in love with Giles and Smutty and I was rooting for them, and this felt like the author took the easy way out.
Maybe the reason why the ending bothered me so much was because the book is so beautiful. The setting was compelling and incredibly vivid, it was obvious that Ms. Myles has some type of personal experience with narrowboats because that part was detailed without being boring, it was like listening to someone talk about their life’s passion. The best part of the descriptions was that they were attractive and beautiful but there was no sugarcoating, this wasn’t a magical boat where everything sparkles, nope, the boat was messy and uncomfortable, but regardless of all that I hope I get the chance to visit England and see one. The same applies to the characters, I liked them very much, flaws and all, and I didn’t feel like the ending was up to par.
Overall I think Ms. Myles is a very talented author and I want to read more by her, this novella works well as a preview of what she’s capable of and if you can see past through the disappointing ending I think you will enjoy it.
Note: we received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
I know what you’re going to say, another British m/m author? Well, yes! I’m on a binge and I’m loving every part of it. There’s something about British writers that’s quite unique, not just m/m authors but romance in general, and Ms. Myles is one of them. Maybe you have heard of her before because her novel Barging In made the rounds in a lot of review blogs and everyone had nice things to say about it, so when I was presented with the opportunity to read this novella I jumped right in.
Giles Rathbourne is a rich schoolteacher who’s going through a rough patch. His long-time boyfriend left him, he is suddenly alone in a house full of memories, he is teetering on the edge of alcoholism and he’s on an extended sick-leave from work. Needless to say, he’s feeling miserable.
One morning a narrowboat breaks down in the part of the canal adjacent to his garden. The owner of the boat is a dreadlocked, tattooed hippie named Smutty. Since Smutty needs a place to keep his boat while he fix it and Giles is lonely, they strike a bargain, Smutty will help take care of Giles’ garden in exchange of a free stay for as long as he needs.
These two guys could not be more different from each other. Smutty has a sunny and positive take on life whereas Giles is pessimistic and cynic. They feel a strong attraction and even deeper connection so it doesn’t take long before they become friends and lovers. But they have a lot of issues to overcome in order to get their happily ever after, so it won’t be an easy road.
I love opposites attract stories, and this one is exactly that. Giles was a straight-laced and spoiled man on the verge of self-destruction. He wasn't depressing though, and neither was Smutty, although both characters had dark and painful pasts. He was very likeable even though he had a fair amount of unlikeable traits, he was prejudiced, a neat-freak, depressed and a bit lazy. Once he meets Smutty, though, he starts to see himself under a different light and he realizes that he needs to change.
The romance was believable even though it takes place during a short time period, I felt like both Smutty and Giles were in need of love, support and companionship. They were lonely in different ways and that’s why they just click, I could just see them as lovers but also as friends.
I had one big issue with this book and it was the ending, it took me completely by surprise and not in a good way. It involves Giles’ ex-boyfriend and I won’t go into details as to not spoil the plot twist, but I do want to say that I was very disappointed by him. At first I thought that they were going to be a realistic ex-couple, one in which both parts were good and bad, and equally responsible in the ending of the relationship. But no, it turns out that the ex was an evil cartoon villain, crazy and one of those guy that make you wonder how no one realized how insane he was. I mean, Giles lived with him and he never saw any of this? I don’t buy it. I felt this last conflict was unnecessary for the plot, the book was fine just being about the leads finding happiness and dealing with their issues. By the end of the book everything is magically resolved and they never even addressed Giles drinking problem again. This annoyed me because up until that point the story was fantastic, I was in love with Giles and Smutty and I was rooting for them, and this felt like the author took the easy way out.
Maybe the reason why the ending bothered me so much was because the book is so beautiful. The setting was compelling and incredibly vivid, it was obvious that Ms. Myles has some type of personal experience with narrowboats because that part was detailed without being boring, it was like listening to someone talk about their life’s passion. The best part of the descriptions was that they were attractive and beautiful but there was no sugarcoating, this wasn’t a magical boat where everything sparkles, nope, the boat was messy and uncomfortable, but regardless of all that I hope I get the chance to visit England and see one. The same applies to the characters, I liked them very much, flaws and all, and I didn’t feel like the ending was up to par.
Overall I think Ms. Myles is a very talented author and I want to read more by her, this novella works well as a preview of what she’s capable of and if you can see past through the disappointing ending I think you will enjoy it.
Note: we received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
December 3, 2011
This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay.
I really loved Josephine Myles' recent novel Barging In, so when I heard she had a new story out that also takes place in the narrowboat community (although not in the same "world"), I was eager to pick it up. This story also features opposites attract, a trope I really love, so I was doubly excited.
Giles Rathbourne is coming off a long-term relationship that ended badly and left him on a leave of absence from his teaching job after his depression and alcohol use got the best of him. Giles is a pretty rigid, uptight guy living in his large childhood home backing up to a British canal. One morning his controlled life is shaken up when an old narrowboat breaks down behind his house and the owner can't move it until the boat can be repaired.
Smutty grew up in a transient life, living part of the year in a commune and part-time traveling the world with his hippie mother. He has continued a wandering lifestyle and recently bought the boat to continue traveling. He earns his money fire dancing for a crowd, a job that earned him his nickname for being covered in ash and smoke when he performs. After seeing the chaos of Giles' garden, Smutty offers to bring it back into shape in exchange for Giles allowing him to leave the boat behind the house until it can be repaired.
Despite having such different personalities and backgrounds, Giles and Smutty click right away, with a budding friendship as well as a sexual relationship. Smutty is a free spirit who enjoys life and is easily content. Giles is drawn to his open heart and beautiful graceful body, including his crazy red and gold dreadlocks. I loved Smutty right away but had a harder time warming up to Giles at first. He came across so rigid and uptight and a bit too snobbish. But as the story developed, I feel like we come to understand Giles and what has shaped him.
Giles only real relationship was with Fabian, his ex. We learn that not only was Fabian cheating on him, but he was belittling, controlling, snobbish, and manipulative. Giles never really knew anything else, and it is only after things end with Fabian and he starts to become his own person, that Giles really opens up to become a likeable guy.
With Smutty's help, the layers of Giles' old life peel away and he learns to relax, find what he wants out of life, and take chances on the things that will really make him happy. And in this case, what Giles wants most is to be with Smutty.
But Smutty is worried about taking a chance on Giles. The commune where he grew up was bought out and destroyed and he is afraid to settle and connect someplace for fear it will be taken away. Smutty is also still wounded from his closest childhood friend (and lover) picking up one day and leaving him and he is now wary about being hurt again. Although he cares deeply about Giles, he is not sure he can take the chance on staying with him.
I really liked this book and loved Giles and Smutty together. I enjoyed seeing Giles blossom from the uptight person he was at the start of the story into someone who felt free and happy with life. And I liked seeing Smutty realize that he could take a chance on love and happiness and trust someone to be there for him.
I will say there is a big twist toward the end of the book that I am not sure I loved. At first I was sort of thrown by the coincidence and not sure it worked for me. It was a bit too much suspension of disbelief for me I think. But despite my initial reservations, I was happy with the way things worked out at the end and I think that Myles did a great job of pulling it all together in a satisfying way. I really enjoyed the story and would definitely recommend it.
I really loved Josephine Myles' recent novel Barging In, so when I heard she had a new story out that also takes place in the narrowboat community (although not in the same "world"), I was eager to pick it up. This story also features opposites attract, a trope I really love, so I was doubly excited.
Giles Rathbourne is coming off a long-term relationship that ended badly and left him on a leave of absence from his teaching job after his depression and alcohol use got the best of him. Giles is a pretty rigid, uptight guy living in his large childhood home backing up to a British canal. One morning his controlled life is shaken up when an old narrowboat breaks down behind his house and the owner can't move it until the boat can be repaired.
Smutty grew up in a transient life, living part of the year in a commune and part-time traveling the world with his hippie mother. He has continued a wandering lifestyle and recently bought the boat to continue traveling. He earns his money fire dancing for a crowd, a job that earned him his nickname for being covered in ash and smoke when he performs. After seeing the chaos of Giles' garden, Smutty offers to bring it back into shape in exchange for Giles allowing him to leave the boat behind the house until it can be repaired.
Despite having such different personalities and backgrounds, Giles and Smutty click right away, with a budding friendship as well as a sexual relationship. Smutty is a free spirit who enjoys life and is easily content. Giles is drawn to his open heart and beautiful graceful body, including his crazy red and gold dreadlocks. I loved Smutty right away but had a harder time warming up to Giles at first. He came across so rigid and uptight and a bit too snobbish. But as the story developed, I feel like we come to understand Giles and what has shaped him.
Giles only real relationship was with Fabian, his ex. We learn that not only was Fabian cheating on him, but he was belittling, controlling, snobbish, and manipulative. Giles never really knew anything else, and it is only after things end with Fabian and he starts to become his own person, that Giles really opens up to become a likeable guy.
With Smutty's help, the layers of Giles' old life peel away and he learns to relax, find what he wants out of life, and take chances on the things that will really make him happy. And in this case, what Giles wants most is to be with Smutty.
But Smutty is worried about taking a chance on Giles. The commune where he grew up was bought out and destroyed and he is afraid to settle and connect someplace for fear it will be taken away. Smutty is also still wounded from his closest childhood friend (and lover) picking up one day and leaving him and he is now wary about being hurt again. Although he cares deeply about Giles, he is not sure he can take the chance on staying with him.
I really liked this book and loved Giles and Smutty together. I enjoyed seeing Giles blossom from the uptight person he was at the start of the story into someone who felt free and happy with life. And I liked seeing Smutty realize that he could take a chance on love and happiness and trust someone to be there for him.
I will say there is a big twist toward the end of the book that I am not sure I loved. At first I was sort of thrown by the coincidence and not sure it worked for me. It was a bit too much suspension of disbelief for me I think. But despite my initial reservations, I was happy with the way things worked out at the end and I think that Myles did a great job of pulling it all together in a satisfying way. I really enjoyed the story and would definitely recommend it.
February 13, 2012
Giles and Smutty are opposites in every way—you'd think. Giles comes from money and lives in the ancestral house, which he's trying to take care of himself. The light bulbs are dusted, but the gardens are going to jungle, because Giles' obsessive cleaning keeps him indoors, fretting and drinking, trying to wash away the pain his stuck-up ex left behind. He's got a trace of whimsy, nearly dead and buried under the weight of Fabian's disapproval, but still hanging on, or he would never have gone out to the garden to chase away the intruder while wearing slippers with claws on.
Buying a wreck of a narrowboat with the last of his funds leaves Smutty depending on the goodwill of the property owner nearest where his engine expires. Raised in a commune that fell prey to developers and with a first love who ran out on him, Smutty's resisted forming ties anywhere else. A narrowboat's just the thing for a man who doesn't want to put down roots, until it won't run. With his dreads in bleached colours and tattoos blazing up his torso, Smutty looks like the flames he dances with; he's much too wild, and yet oddly too conservative, for a man like Giles.
Yet as they work out how to mesh, even if temporarily, the two are more alike than it seems at first glance, and if they don't mesh, the friction is interesting. Giles is teetering on the brink of alcoholism; Smutty shuns the stuff. Smutty dances with fire; Giles has reason to fear it. Yet they come together.
Fabian, the horrid ex, casts a very long shadow, even though he's offstage for most of his role. The author tweaks the reader's expectations of him masterfully; his truths are buried deep. Giles is still living in reaction to Fabian's expectations; this was a toxic relationship but repeated exposures to Smutty's herbal teas draw the poison from Giles' heart. Kindness and real love are so far in Giles' past he has some trouble recognizing the signs now. Fabian gets mentioned at times when I really didn't want him intruding, but I could see why Giles would think of him then.
The gap in social status weighs more heavily on Smutty, whose off-the-grid lifestyle lifts a lot of eyebrows. His Maori heritage is his pride, the source of his livelihood, and cause for discrimination. He's feeling the tick of time, not wanting to get too attached because he'll be moving along soon. A posh fellow like Giles surely can't want him long term, can he? The man who tends the gardens is only help to be dallied with, Smutty fears. A wanderer who accidentally boated into his life is only going to sail away again, Giles is sure. The gardens, long untended but starting to recover under Smutty's care, are a lovely metaphor for the relationship, with roots, blooms, and a lot of work.
This was a charming journey, as the two men find the way to be together, and around the barriers to happiness that their pasts have erected. I read this in one sitting, thoroughly engrossed, and wishing I could watch Smutty dance with fire.
The story was originally serialized on the author's blog, and is still there, but it's more than worth the modest cover price to have a nicely formatted version where all the text is in one place. If Josephine Myles wasn't already on my must-read list, this story would put her there.
Buying a wreck of a narrowboat with the last of his funds leaves Smutty depending on the goodwill of the property owner nearest where his engine expires. Raised in a commune that fell prey to developers and with a first love who ran out on him, Smutty's resisted forming ties anywhere else. A narrowboat's just the thing for a man who doesn't want to put down roots, until it won't run. With his dreads in bleached colours and tattoos blazing up his torso, Smutty looks like the flames he dances with; he's much too wild, and yet oddly too conservative, for a man like Giles.
Yet as they work out how to mesh, even if temporarily, the two are more alike than it seems at first glance, and if they don't mesh, the friction is interesting. Giles is teetering on the brink of alcoholism; Smutty shuns the stuff. Smutty dances with fire; Giles has reason to fear it. Yet they come together.
Fabian, the horrid ex, casts a very long shadow, even though he's offstage for most of his role. The author tweaks the reader's expectations of him masterfully; his truths are buried deep. Giles is still living in reaction to Fabian's expectations; this was a toxic relationship but repeated exposures to Smutty's herbal teas draw the poison from Giles' heart. Kindness and real love are so far in Giles' past he has some trouble recognizing the signs now. Fabian gets mentioned at times when I really didn't want him intruding, but I could see why Giles would think of him then.
The gap in social status weighs more heavily on Smutty, whose off-the-grid lifestyle lifts a lot of eyebrows. His Maori heritage is his pride, the source of his livelihood, and cause for discrimination. He's feeling the tick of time, not wanting to get too attached because he'll be moving along soon. A posh fellow like Giles surely can't want him long term, can he? The man who tends the gardens is only help to be dallied with, Smutty fears. A wanderer who accidentally boated into his life is only going to sail away again, Giles is sure. The gardens, long untended but starting to recover under Smutty's care, are a lovely metaphor for the relationship, with roots, blooms, and a lot of work.
This was a charming journey, as the two men find the way to be together, and around the barriers to happiness that their pasts have erected. I read this in one sitting, thoroughly engrossed, and wishing I could watch Smutty dance with fire.
The story was originally serialized on the author's blog, and is still there, but it's more than worth the modest cover price to have a nicely formatted version where all the text is in one place. If Josephine Myles wasn't already on my must-read list, this story would put her there.
April 18, 2012
4.5 stars
For those readers who were fascinated by the long-boat culture in Barging In will enjoy this second foray into the experience, although most of the action takes place off-boat. Giles' life kind of sucks. His ex left him and after a drunken flip-out on his students he's been put on administration leave. He spends his days obsessively cleaning and his nights drinking himself to sleep. He's not impressed when the freaky guy in the long boat ends up at the end of his garden, although really, the boat is broken, what can he do, besides basically tell him to move along. However despite his better judgment he's kind of curious about the flame haired supposed fire dancer, and ends up going for a visit that evening, which turns into more than a visit.
I'll be honest. At first Giles is damned annoying. He has this habit of putting his foot in it more often than not. He comes across as a bit of a jerk, who probably thinks he's better than most and a bit weak. Especially when you see him interact with his ex. However I adored free-spirit Smutty right off the bat. I have a feeling there is some part of me that wishes I could be like that, just travel, do whatever, see the world, no responsibilities, no commitments. Sigh. However once you get to know Giles he's not such a jerk after all and his defence of Smutty whose had some nasty run-ins with guys in bars was sweet and touching, for the reader and Smutty who'd never really had anyone stand up for him before.
I loved seeing Smutty bring about a change in Giles. Sex on the kitchen table? How "unsanitary". Maybe? Is it? Could he? Perhaps. And he's not alone. Giles makes Smutty think about some things that happened to him as a young man and the hurts he's still holding onto that affect how he looks at life and his need to keep on moving. But his exuberant good nature can't help but drag Giles out of the doldrums and Giles even manages to stand up to his ex a bit. An ex who appears to be a psychopath, not in the murder you and wear your skin way, but in a callous no feelings way which based on his history didn't really surprise me.
The only odd little niggle I had was the odds of Giles' ex and Smutty having a connection, although I suppose Smutty did grow up not that far from Giles, but still, I kind of thought "hmmm, what are the odds?" but hey, it worked with the story and by then I was totally invested in Smutty and Giles so I was okay with it. It's a very sweet story of opposites who bring out the best in each other and make changes in their lives for the better.
Oh and if you've never seen a fire dancer do their thing at night, it's amazing and if you get the chance do it. I've seen them perform after dark and it's probably dangerous as anything but it's dazzling and a true skill I wouldn't even attempt. I was very happy with the way it ended and it was a real pleasure and kept me coming back to it while I was reading. I have a tendency to get distracted while I read and I will read a bit then surf or watch TV and read a bit, but this one kept dragging me back as I wanted to see how it was all going to go.
For those readers who were fascinated by the long-boat culture in Barging In will enjoy this second foray into the experience, although most of the action takes place off-boat. Giles' life kind of sucks. His ex left him and after a drunken flip-out on his students he's been put on administration leave. He spends his days obsessively cleaning and his nights drinking himself to sleep. He's not impressed when the freaky guy in the long boat ends up at the end of his garden, although really, the boat is broken, what can he do, besides basically tell him to move along. However despite his better judgment he's kind of curious about the flame haired supposed fire dancer, and ends up going for a visit that evening, which turns into more than a visit.
I'll be honest. At first Giles is damned annoying. He has this habit of putting his foot in it more often than not. He comes across as a bit of a jerk, who probably thinks he's better than most and a bit weak. Especially when you see him interact with his ex. However I adored free-spirit Smutty right off the bat. I have a feeling there is some part of me that wishes I could be like that, just travel, do whatever, see the world, no responsibilities, no commitments. Sigh. However once you get to know Giles he's not such a jerk after all and his defence of Smutty whose had some nasty run-ins with guys in bars was sweet and touching, for the reader and Smutty who'd never really had anyone stand up for him before.
I loved seeing Smutty bring about a change in Giles. Sex on the kitchen table? How "unsanitary". Maybe? Is it? Could he? Perhaps. And he's not alone. Giles makes Smutty think about some things that happened to him as a young man and the hurts he's still holding onto that affect how he looks at life and his need to keep on moving. But his exuberant good nature can't help but drag Giles out of the doldrums and Giles even manages to stand up to his ex a bit. An ex who appears to be a psychopath, not in the murder you and wear your skin way, but in a callous no feelings way which based on his history didn't really surprise me.
The only odd little niggle I had was the odds of Giles' ex and Smutty having a connection, although I suppose Smutty did grow up not that far from Giles, but still, I kind of thought "hmmm, what are the odds?" but hey, it worked with the story and by then I was totally invested in Smutty and Giles so I was okay with it. It's a very sweet story of opposites who bring out the best in each other and make changes in their lives for the better.
Oh and if you've never seen a fire dancer do their thing at night, it's amazing and if you get the chance do it. I've seen them perform after dark and it's probably dangerous as anything but it's dazzling and a true skill I wouldn't even attempt. I was very happy with the way it ended and it was a real pleasure and kept me coming back to it while I was reading. I have a tendency to get distracted while I read and I will read a bit then surf or watch TV and read a bit, but this one kept dragging me back as I wanted to see how it was all going to go.
May 13, 2012
This is a cute, romantic story about two men who are fundamentally different. Yet, they both have quirks that make it difficult to live with other people. Interestingly, after some very amusing initial resistance and friction, it turns out that they can deal with each other extremely well.
Giles is a teacher at a private school: sedentary, set in his ways, and has been rejected by a snobbish ex. Without him, he is even more lost than normal and, forced to endure sick leave, doesn't quite know what to do with himself. Not that he will admit this. He is quite clearly desperate for company, yet defends his privacy as if it were going out of fashion.
Smutty is a wanderer, loves seeing the world, and has a boat (doubling as his home) that is in dire need of repairs. He happens to land on Giles's private land, and sees nothing wrong with staying for a few days - just until he can get his boat fixed. He is willing to work while he is there and turns out to be really good with plants. Just what Giles's garden needs.
I enjoyed their slow approach and gentle dance, intermingled with flaring passion when they let go and Giles manages to forget his inhibitions and insecurities. I loved the fact they used their 'business agreement' as an excuse for spending more time together, but hey, whatever works, right?
If you like stories about ordinary men with somewhat unusual personalities, and if you are in the mood for a gentle romance, you may enjoy this book.
Giles is a teacher at a private school: sedentary, set in his ways, and has been rejected by a snobbish ex. Without him, he is even more lost than normal and, forced to endure sick leave, doesn't quite know what to do with himself. Not that he will admit this. He is quite clearly desperate for company, yet defends his privacy as if it were going out of fashion.
Smutty is a wanderer, loves seeing the world, and has a boat (doubling as his home) that is in dire need of repairs. He happens to land on Giles's private land, and sees nothing wrong with staying for a few days - just until he can get his boat fixed. He is willing to work while he is there and turns out to be really good with plants. Just what Giles's garden needs.
I enjoyed their slow approach and gentle dance, intermingled with flaring passion when they let go and Giles manages to forget his inhibitions and insecurities. I loved the fact they used their 'business agreement' as an excuse for spending more time together, but hey, whatever works, right?
If you like stories about ordinary men with somewhat unusual personalities, and if you are in the mood for a gentle romance, you may enjoy this book.
September 14, 2015
★★★☆☆½
This is the second narrowboat read I've read from this author Barging in
and I enjoy the characters and the stories.
At first blush, Giles and Smutty have nothing in common, but digging deeper, they surprisingly have more in common than they thought - Smutty doesn't drink or very little and if Giles continues on, he'll be an alcoholic and Smutty juggles fire and Giles is scared of it (with good reason).
Giles wants to change his life and become a painter full-time and Smutty falls in love with Giles' gardens but doesn't want to get to attached because he hasn't been able to set down roots since he was a child.
I liked this shorty quite a bit, Giles brings stability to Smutty's life and Smutty brings fun to Giles.
This is the second narrowboat read I've read from this author Barging in
and I enjoy the characters and the stories. At first blush, Giles and Smutty have nothing in common, but digging deeper, they surprisingly have more in common than they thought - Smutty doesn't drink or very little and if Giles continues on, he'll be an alcoholic and Smutty juggles fire and Giles is scared of it (with good reason).
Giles wants to change his life and become a painter full-time and Smutty falls in love with Giles' gardens but doesn't want to get to attached because he hasn't been able to set down roots since he was a child.
I liked this shorty quite a bit, Giles brings stability to Smutty's life and Smutty brings fun to Giles.
December 27, 2011
After reading Barging In, this story set in the same community adds even greater fascination to me. I also like the pairing here more - a very satisfying and believable "opposites attract" pair.
Giles is as uptight as one can imagine an upper middle class Englishman can be, and then there's the lively and free-spirited Smutty to light up the story and Giles's life. Their shared hurt in the past give them the rare common ground for affection to blossom and I love seeing the change, especially on Giles, because they both learn from each other. A love that both of them learn to leave the hurt behind and find trust again.
Giles is as uptight as one can imagine an upper middle class Englishman can be, and then there's the lively and free-spirited Smutty to light up the story and Giles's life. Their shared hurt in the past give them the rare common ground for affection to blossom and I love seeing the change, especially on Giles, because they both learn from each other. A love that both of them learn to leave the hurt behind and find trust again.
June 27, 2016
2.5 stars. I was after something light and low-stress and easy to read, and this kept me nicely entertained for a few hours. Because it's by Josephine Myles, it's nicely written and engaging and diverse. This book was pleasant, but it became quite melodramatic and I had a lot of niggles, especially about the unrealistic and overly dramatic ending. There were many things that made me raise my eyebrows. Not my favourite by this author, but it was pretty good for the first three-quarters.
February 24, 2014
Boats in the Night is a gentle romance about two men with different personalities and social background. I enjoyed Giles’ snobbish remarks, his awkwardness and insecurities; I loved Smutty’s dreads and tattoos, the fire dance and the hippy aspects of his life.
What I liked least were the “Big Coincidence” at the end and the insta-cure for Giles’ alcoholism.
All things considered, it’s an easy read.
What I liked least were the “Big Coincidence” at the end and the insta-cure for Giles’ alcoholism.
All things considered, it’s an easy read.
November 15, 2011
Very good m/m romance about a guy who's not really doing so well since his boyfriend left him a month ago. He's dealing with a hangover when he hears a bunch of noise at the base of his garden and discovers a broken-down narrowboat, with a most fascinating owner...
February 13, 2012
very cute. Myles is becoming a new fave. Likable MCs, slightly impractical twists, but sexy and fun.
February 24, 2014
Very enjoyable read. Didn't' see that lovely plot twist at the coming though. I think my mouth was hanging open for a few seconds before I could read on.
October 9, 2016
3.5 stars
Want to read
February 22, 2014Price drop to $0.99 (from $3.99!) at Amazon US and ARe!!! 2/22/14 :)
June 8, 2023
I love buying and reading these types of books.
Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/hunter-27-ed...
https://numberoneboats.com/hunter-27-...
https://theboatyacht.com/hunter-legen...
https://numberoneboats.com/hunter-leg...
Boats, yachts, historical events and books about the sea are generally excellent. If there are sequels in your series, I would love to read them.
The beauties of owning the books of important authors cannot be discussed. I'm looking forward to your new books.
For friends who want to read this book, I leave the importance of reading a book here. I wish good luck to the sellers and customers...
Top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
As we read, we need to remember the different characters and settings of a particular story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you need to remember the details during the time you devote to reading the book. Therefore, reading is an exercise for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading Is a (free) Form of Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV series and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading? Most importantly, it's free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and Focus
We all agree that there can be no reading without focus, and we need to concentrate on every page we read to fully understand the story. In a world where gadgets only speed up and shorten our attention span, we must constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, so it improves your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you come across a word you don't know? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary will improve as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Also, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it's time to sleep. Now more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. That's why you put your phone away and pick up a book and tell your brain it's time to calm down. Also, since reading helps you relieve stress, reading right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve your sleep quality.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always full of fun and interesting facts. Whether we read fiction or non-fiction, books have the ability to provide us with information we might not otherwise know. Reading various topics can make you a more knowledgeable person and therefore improve your speaking skills.
7. Reading Is Motivating
By reading books about heroes overcoming adversity, we are often encouraged to do the same. Whether it's a romance novel or a self-help book, the right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/hunter-27-ed...
https://numberoneboats.com/hunter-27-...
https://theboatyacht.com/hunter-legen...
https://numberoneboats.com/hunter-leg...
December 12, 2017
Very good chemistry. I saw that Fabian twist a mile away, but I still enjoyed the whole story. It helped that I was in a narrowboat mood (poor Freya though).
Tag explanation - Interracial: "Smutty" is half Maori (New Zealand) and half white (Essex, England).
Tag explanation - Interracial: "Smutty" is half Maori (New Zealand) and half white (Essex, England).
April 17, 2025
Giles and Smutty are cute together, but I did not get the instant love between these two. It felt more like lust at first sight and the love was forced to give the book a HEA. The Fabian story line was odd and again felt forced. The book skimmed over some pretty serious issues without recognizing that these two really needed some professional help.
September 13, 2017
4.5
Well-written, heart-warming, and wonderfully laugh-out-loud funny. I love an opposites-attract romance, and Jo does a great job of bridging the gap between Giles and Smutty. Well-paced, light read with some hot scenes. Enjoyed this one immensely.
Well-written, heart-warming, and wonderfully laugh-out-loud funny. I love an opposites-attract romance, and Jo does a great job of bridging the gap between Giles and Smutty. Well-paced, light read with some hot scenes. Enjoyed this one immensely.
May 18, 2019
Engaging author.
April 16, 2018
Very sweet, about two rather naive men,
February 9, 2012
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.
BOATS IN THE NIGHT is another romantic story by Josephine Myles, and while it wasn't quite as brilliant as Barging In, it was very good. I found the two to be similar. The author has a certain love for unusual men who prefer to drift in life and attract attention with their extraordinary looks.
Smutty is a man who moves around the world, experiencing one adventure after another, not all of them good but making plenty of memories for himself. He dances with lit torches and has a fascinating relationship with fire, from his attention drawing haircut to his colorful tattoo. By chance, his newly bought boat breaks down by the bank of Giles' property.
Giles, a teacher on a forced holiday who's had alcohol problems since his ex-lover Fabian left, isn't all that happy with the prospect of a stranger lingering on his land, but that soon changes, and awkward Giles finds more than momentary attraction toward Smutty lurking within his emotions.
It's a sweet romance between unusual characters which has a nice flow and not too many tripping points. In fact, I don't have any issues with the romance in this book, but rather with a somewhat convenient plot and excessive descriptiveness, which just dragged the whole story for me. Giles was too naive and his relationship with Fabian rubbed me the wrong way. I just wanted him to become violent, smack Fabian a couple of times and move on with his life. Instead everything between them kept floating up in the air without a finalized solution. A few times I even thought the story would take a different direction because there were enough hints to back up that theory, but instead the ending was wrapped up rather fast and in my opinion left a few too many loose ends.
Now that I've read that last sentence and can't have anymore, I keep thinking how it would be nice to see Smutty and Giles together. The relationship we see in the book is solid and cute even, but I wouldn't mind a few more situations with the two of them and even a couple of more explicit sex scenes. Maybe I'm missing the connection between that what's on the screen and me as a reader. In any case, this is a very good romance on the very cute and sweet side, so if you do desire something to make you feel warm and carefree, I would suggest BOATS IN THE NIGHT.
BOATS IN THE NIGHT is another romantic story by Josephine Myles, and while it wasn't quite as brilliant as Barging In, it was very good. I found the two to be similar. The author has a certain love for unusual men who prefer to drift in life and attract attention with their extraordinary looks.
Smutty is a man who moves around the world, experiencing one adventure after another, not all of them good but making plenty of memories for himself. He dances with lit torches and has a fascinating relationship with fire, from his attention drawing haircut to his colorful tattoo. By chance, his newly bought boat breaks down by the bank of Giles' property.
Giles, a teacher on a forced holiday who's had alcohol problems since his ex-lover Fabian left, isn't all that happy with the prospect of a stranger lingering on his land, but that soon changes, and awkward Giles finds more than momentary attraction toward Smutty lurking within his emotions.
It's a sweet romance between unusual characters which has a nice flow and not too many tripping points. In fact, I don't have any issues with the romance in this book, but rather with a somewhat convenient plot and excessive descriptiveness, which just dragged the whole story for me. Giles was too naive and his relationship with Fabian rubbed me the wrong way. I just wanted him to become violent, smack Fabian a couple of times and move on with his life. Instead everything between them kept floating up in the air without a finalized solution. A few times I even thought the story would take a different direction because there were enough hints to back up that theory, but instead the ending was wrapped up rather fast and in my opinion left a few too many loose ends.
Now that I've read that last sentence and can't have anymore, I keep thinking how it would be nice to see Smutty and Giles together. The relationship we see in the book is solid and cute even, but I wouldn't mind a few more situations with the two of them and even a couple of more explicit sex scenes. Maybe I'm missing the connection between that what's on the screen and me as a reader. In any case, this is a very good romance on the very cute and sweet side, so if you do desire something to make you feel warm and carefree, I would suggest BOATS IN THE NIGHT.
Read
December 9, 2013The title is quite evocative of what happened with this book, Boats in the Night who met, maybe even brush, but then go on their respective paths far from each other. I had this book in my reading list from probably the first week it was out, and for a reason or the other delayed the read, until I realized it was almost 2 years. There wasn’t really any specific reason, moreover, as soon as I started it, I realized this is exactly the story I like, cute, tender, just that touch of angst, but nothing too much to make you sad. It’s an heartwarming story of hope and love, with that UK flavor to make it fashionable.
I loved both characters, stuffy Giles (I imagined him like a Colin Firth’s sort of man) and gipsy-like Smutty, they were for sure perfect together, opposites attracts, but above all, they were balanced; nice touch the fact that Smutty wasn’t some young lad searching for a sugar daddy, he was actually older than Giles. I more than loved the small town setting, I had the chance to visit Bath and around this past winter, and so was able to visualize what the author was describing and it was great. Like for the story, nothing was really against these men and their love, and for once, I liked I hadn’t to worry for them and just enjoy their love.
If you want to experience the same contentment I’m feeling right now, don’t make my same mistake, and if you “brush” paths with Boats in the Night, take your time to stop and enjoy it.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068NNXDE/?...
I loved both characters, stuffy Giles (I imagined him like a Colin Firth’s sort of man) and gipsy-like Smutty, they were for sure perfect together, opposites attracts, but above all, they were balanced; nice touch the fact that Smutty wasn’t some young lad searching for a sugar daddy, he was actually older than Giles. I more than loved the small town setting, I had the chance to visit Bath and around this past winter, and so was able to visualize what the author was describing and it was great. Like for the story, nothing was really against these men and their love, and for once, I liked I hadn’t to worry for them and just enjoy their love.
If you want to experience the same contentment I’m feeling right now, don’t make my same mistake, and if you “brush” paths with Boats in the Night, take your time to stop and enjoy it.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0068NNXDE/?...
September 3, 2016
synopsis:
giles has been suspended from his job as a teacher because he went to work drunk when his boyfriend broke up with him and told his students and the people that he worked with what he thought of them. smutty has just bought a river boat from a friend, and it conks out on his first run. when giles comes down to see who is trespassing on his lawn, smutty makes a colourful impression. smutty finds out that it's not a quick fix, so he agrees to clean up giles' garden in order to repay him for letting him crash on his property. giles is becoming an alcoholic, and smutty has had bad experiences with alcohol, so while smutty is there, giles begins to get himself together. then, giles' ex-boyfriend decides that he wants him back, and he turns out to be smutty's first boyfriend.
what i liked: the characterizations. i liked that although the story took place over a short period of time and short page length, it felt fully realized. i liked the fact that smutty made giles a better person, that giles started taking an interest in things that he hadn't before, like his money. i also liked that giles provided a base for smutty to feel secure in, which he hadn't had in years.
what i didn't like: that the ex was an ex of both of them. and also that the ex seduced the ex-gardener. he seemed like such a selfish jerk that it was hard to imagine two people pining for him.
giles has been suspended from his job as a teacher because he went to work drunk when his boyfriend broke up with him and told his students and the people that he worked with what he thought of them. smutty has just bought a river boat from a friend, and it conks out on his first run. when giles comes down to see who is trespassing on his lawn, smutty makes a colourful impression. smutty finds out that it's not a quick fix, so he agrees to clean up giles' garden in order to repay him for letting him crash on his property. giles is becoming an alcoholic, and smutty has had bad experiences with alcohol, so while smutty is there, giles begins to get himself together. then, giles' ex-boyfriend decides that he wants him back, and he turns out to be smutty's first boyfriend.
what i liked: the characterizations. i liked that although the story took place over a short period of time and short page length, it felt fully realized. i liked the fact that smutty made giles a better person, that giles started taking an interest in things that he hadn't before, like his money. i also liked that giles provided a base for smutty to feel secure in, which he hadn't had in years.
what i didn't like: that the ex was an ex of both of them. and also that the ex seduced the ex-gardener. he seemed like such a selfish jerk that it was hard to imagine two people pining for him.
December 13, 2011
Boats in the Night is a great story, I knew I would enjoy it from the first time I heard of it. Jo Myles is a really skilfull writer, so anything by her merits my attention, and a story set in the world of narrowboats is always going to interest me. The particular stretch of water in which the story is set is one I know well, so I simply had to read the book.
Despite all the above motivation for reading, it could have been a disappointment, of course, but I had no need to worry on that score. This is a story with believable attractive characters and an involving and heart-warming plot. The peripheral characters were interesting too and I read the whole thing at one sitting. I hope Ms Myles goes on to write hundreds and hundreds of books of this standard. If she does I promise to buy heavyweight bookshelves to house them.
Despite all the above motivation for reading, it could have been a disappointment, of course, but I had no need to worry on that score. This is a story with believable attractive characters and an involving and heart-warming plot. The peripheral characters were interesting too and I read the whole thing at one sitting. I hope Ms Myles goes on to write hundreds and hundreds of books of this standard. If she does I promise to buy heavyweight bookshelves to house them.
February 1, 2012
This is an good beach/rainy afternoon read because it has a happy ending after a tortured love story: poor gypsy/hippie meets rich toff. The Giles/Smutty man on man sex scenes are a highlight for sure. There was no explanation of why Giles was at home on sick leave (was it deleted from the Kindle version?) Did he come on to some student (totally out of character)?? Who knows and the author isn't telling? I haven't yet decided whether the Fabian/Finn connection and man/woman marriage is too over the top. It certainly moved the story along to a conclusion. At least Smutty (aka Jupiter Moonbeam) and Giles settled into domestic bliss and hopefully lived happily ever after. Even Rick the gardener is happily dating and getting advice from Smutty.
I'm hoping to soon read "Barging In", the author's next "narrowboat" story.
I'm hoping to soon read "Barging In", the author's next "narrowboat" story.
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