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The Ladies' Book of Pleasures #2
A Moment of Passion
A lady in the ballroom a lover in the bedroom.
"The Ladies Book of Pleasures, Book 2"
When Lady Jacinda unwraps a scandalous birthday gift, she s sure the anonymous giver is playing a cruel joke. The Ladies Book of Pleasures may be responsible for one gossiped-about marriage, but for a lady ruined by a rogue and shunned by society, Jacinda is doomed to a lonely, loveless future.
Worse, as she pages through the volume of passionate promises, she is observed by the wicked and dangerous Duke of Carnthorn and now he is stalking her as a possible willing victim of his shocking preferences.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is having none of it. Jacinda, keeper of his most painful secret, is a friend he will not abandon to a wolf like Carnthorn. As they embark on a pretend courtship for her own protection, of course their proper decorum in public melts into wicked passion in the bedroom.
But even as real feelings begin to develop between them, Carnthorn is watching. He is not convinced. And he is determined to possess Jacinda, no matter whom he has to destroy
This book contains friends turning to lovers, a highly erotic secret affair and a wicked villain who will destroy what he cannot have."
"The Ladies Book of Pleasures, Book 2"
When Lady Jacinda unwraps a scandalous birthday gift, she s sure the anonymous giver is playing a cruel joke. The Ladies Book of Pleasures may be responsible for one gossiped-about marriage, but for a lady ruined by a rogue and shunned by society, Jacinda is doomed to a lonely, loveless future.
Worse, as she pages through the volume of passionate promises, she is observed by the wicked and dangerous Duke of Carnthorn and now he is stalking her as a possible willing victim of his shocking preferences.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is having none of it. Jacinda, keeper of his most painful secret, is a friend he will not abandon to a wolf like Carnthorn. As they embark on a pretend courtship for her own protection, of course their proper decorum in public melts into wicked passion in the bedroom.
But even as real feelings begin to develop between them, Carnthorn is watching. He is not convinced. And he is determined to possess Jacinda, no matter whom he has to destroy
This book contains friends turning to lovers, a highly erotic secret affair and a wicked villain who will destroy what he cannot have."
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
107 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
126 books1,572 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 2, 2015
A Moment of Passion is a good example of a promising plot wasted by lacklustre writing, awkward dialogue and weak characterisation. The prose was almost painful in its simplicity, and I found myself yearning for the beautiful writing of Mary Balogh or Grace Draven. Speaking of dialogue, there were ones that really made me cringe, such as:
WHOA THERE JASON YOU SILVER TONGUED DEVIL, YOU. EXCUSE ME WHILE I SWOON AT YOUR WORDS.
And it didn't help that a doornail had more personality than all the characters combined. I was particularly annoyed with how much of a push-over Jacinda was. I understand her reasons for considering being a mistress, but her total lack of willpower and self-esteem just drove me nuts! Ugh. And Jason seemed adorable at first, but his daddy issues really turned me off.
The angst really felt forced, as if that's the only way the writer could add more conflict to the plot.
Overall, this was an okay novel. Not brilliant but not abhorrent.
“I can sense you,” she said, her wide, dark stare sucking him in until he was permanently trapped. Captured in every way. “I can almost hear you breathing.”
“Can you hear my cock getting hard for you too?”
WHOA THERE JASON YOU SILVER TONGUED DEVIL, YOU. EXCUSE ME WHILE I SWOON AT YOUR WORDS.
And it didn't help that a doornail had more personality than all the characters combined. I was particularly annoyed with how much of a push-over Jacinda was. I understand her reasons for considering being a mistress, but her total lack of willpower and self-esteem just drove me nuts! Ugh. And Jason seemed adorable at first, but his daddy issues really turned me off.
The angst really felt forced, as if that's the only way the writer could add more conflict to the plot.
Overall, this was an okay novel. Not brilliant but not abhorrent.
August 19, 2018
The author's name sounded so familiar, I thought I had read Jess Michaels before, but I hadn't. Turns out I purchased a book I never read and marked a few "want to read."
After this one, I definitely plan to read those others soon. I enjoyed the writing style, and the sex scenes were hot. There was so much I didn't/shouldn't like about the book, and yet I was so engrossed I finished in one day.
Both Jacinda and Jason, Earl of Northfield, had horrible, abusive, and selfish fathers. Maybe this commonality is why they have been friends for 15 years despite the gender difference making it unlikely, but they each responded differently.
Jacinda lacked self-confidence and became week. She was basically raped and did not stand up for herself. She just hides herself away for seven years. She has always secretly loved Jason; and in more recent years, lusted after him. However, she knows she was never good enough for him, even before the Incident; and she continues to feel unworthy.
Jason is handsome, wealthy, and titled. He is self assured and becomes a playboy, moving from one mistress to the next. He swears to never get married so that the line may end with him. The perfect revenge on his dead father! (I absolutely hate that trope and cannot believe I enjoyed this book so much in spite of it.) He decides to "help" his friend by pretending to court her and give her secret sex lessons in private just in case she can't land a husband and wants to become a mistress. Really it's just an excuse for him to use her as his temporarily, but these scenes were some of the best parts of the book.
Of course, everything wraps up predictably as it should in spite of much denial along the way. I would recommend if you are looking for a historical erotic romance.
After this one, I definitely plan to read those others soon. I enjoyed the writing style, and the sex scenes were hot. There was so much I didn't/shouldn't like about the book, and yet I was so engrossed I finished in one day.
Both Jacinda and Jason, Earl of Northfield, had horrible, abusive, and selfish fathers. Maybe this commonality is why they have been friends for 15 years despite the gender difference making it unlikely, but they each responded differently.
Jacinda lacked self-confidence and became week. She was basically raped and did not stand up for herself. She just hides herself away for seven years. She has always secretly loved Jason; and in more recent years, lusted after him. However, she knows she was never good enough for him, even before the Incident; and she continues to feel unworthy.
Jason is handsome, wealthy, and titled. He is self assured and becomes a playboy, moving from one mistress to the next. He swears to never get married so that the line may end with him. The perfect revenge on his dead father! (I absolutely hate that trope and cannot believe I enjoyed this book so much in spite of it.) He decides to "help" his friend by pretending to court her and give her secret sex lessons in private just in case she can't land a husband and wants to become a mistress. Really it's just an excuse for him to use her as his temporarily, but these scenes were some of the best parts of the book.
Of course, everything wraps up predictably as it should in spite of much denial along the way. I would recommend if you are looking for a historical erotic romance.
October 15, 2014
'The Ladies' Book of Pleasures' was written by the mysterious courtesan author & a unknown Fairy Godperson marked it for a lonely ruin lady to indulge in her own personal Prince of Utter Decadent Pleasures!
Miss Jacinda Downing has only lived a life vacant of any love, as her hateful father battered her with his belittling words, her brother cut her with his sharp tongue & her spoiled self-center sister made her feel ugly & plain. The only human kindness in her holllow childhood was from her brother's friend Jason. Years later a drunk Jason honored her with his childhood full of abuse. At the hands of a spoiled son of a Duke, she was taken too quickly against a wall, as her father interrupts & the man refuses to marry her, so now she lives an unwanted & belittled companion of her Aunt Cornelia. Jacinda only love & acceptance in her cold world are her BFFs, the newly married Lady Isabel & the widowed Lady Grace.
Jason may be the Earl of Northfield, but he also lived a self-imposed life devoid of love with endless, meaningless & soon forgotten affairs. He hates his dead father so much for all the beatings & his painful childhood that he is going to destroy his Father's everything, like bankruptcy to having the title die out with him. One drunken night, he sees the angelic Jacinda, he feel compelled to confess his plan & she makes him THINK about all the folks that depend on him for their livelihoods, so he decided he will be financial responsible, but he will never marry or have kids. That should show his father, or will it?
Jacinda's world is shaken up by a surprise Bday party & the mysterious gift of 'The Ladies' Book of Pleasures,' as she is soon eyeballed by the pain seeking Duke of Carnthorn & Jason whisks her away on the dance floor. The next day at her aunt's home the Duke of Evilness has the nerve to propose that she be his mistress & command her own life. And if that isn't enough, Jason comes right on Duke's heels as he leaves & Jacinda confuses the Duke's plans to him. Now being a male of the species, he goes right to the Duke's home, demands he leave Jacinda alone & soon the spin of lies begins! That is how Jason is on her window, peeking in as she is putting the Pleasure book to handy use, knocks, confesses what he has done & tells her his GLORIOUS PLAN to pretend to woo her, whet others appetite & find her a hubby. Since she has been handy with the book, she is braver & UPS his plan to her plan of TRAINING her as a mistress, just in case she decides to take that mistress road instead of the wife. What do they say about plans?
This begins the path of utter self discovery for Jacinda, with each form of pleasure is unwrapped, caressed, explored, denoted & rebuilt again to another erotic quest, as Jason melts her knees, undies evaporate, marrow liquefies & he is the open flame to her moist puddle of excruciating satisfaction. But the road of Jason's utter self destruction soon follows because with undies scorching & mind blow ecstasies comes uncovered hearts, damning choices like dreams or a lifetime of cold emptiness, as Jacinda does her own damage as Jason's heart explodes, implodes & soon CRAVES her light, joy & he begins to dream. Can Jacinda embrace her inner temptress & take what she wants? Is Jason willing to rethink his desolate life & accept her light? How will her cruel family screw this up for her? Will Isabel & Grace be able to protect their dear friend? Will the Duke of Evilness become a stumbling block or starting block for Jason? Who is the Fairy Godperson that gave Jacinda the book that turn her world inside out?
I discovered Ms. Michaels with the Albright Sisters series & she woke up my reading diet to domination. She made me rethink my small romance world & made me fall in love with her dominant male, the women who were brave & adventurous enough to take them on & my romance world was bigger, brighter & steamier! Jacinda was such a wilted, sad & lonely heroine, who was like sponge awaiting to soak up any love she could find. In my personal opinion, Jason was lucky that she soaked up what he had to give! Jason was vessel of pure anger when it came to his fathe, but his heart was also a sponge awaiting her love right back! Ms. Michaels writes great flaw filled characters & she slowly teases me with peeling each of their many layers back! Now this book didn't have that much dominance, but it was a jammed pack with PULL THE FIRE ALARM scenes & amazing uninhibited pleasure seeking moments! I loved reading Jacinda's journey of strength & courage, Jason's dead heart awakening & my heart broke for them both when it looked like the was NO ANSWERS to bring them together. Ms. Michaels is a big tease with holding back the knowledge of the mysterious Fairy Godperson gifting The Ladies' Book of Pleasures & I have to ask, where can I get a copy because I want my pleasure center set ablaze, too. A great romance takes me on a journey that is unexpected, makes me smile, maybe SNAUGH, scream, boo & yes cuss at the characters, cry my really UGLY cry, have my Kindle held hostage (I am a vocal person), wake up & liquefy my girlie parts & makes me BEGGING FOR a few extra pages because it was that AWESOME! Ms. Michaels delivered all those things to me & more (plus she OWES me 1 GIANT cookie because that is what I had to pay to get my Kindle back), so she gets my top score of 5 fingers up & 10 toes for this EXPLOSION of romance & write Gravels story FASTER!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
Miss Jacinda Downing has only lived a life vacant of any love, as her hateful father battered her with his belittling words, her brother cut her with his sharp tongue & her spoiled self-center sister made her feel ugly & plain. The only human kindness in her holllow childhood was from her brother's friend Jason. Years later a drunk Jason honored her with his childhood full of abuse. At the hands of a spoiled son of a Duke, she was taken too quickly against a wall, as her father interrupts & the man refuses to marry her, so now she lives an unwanted & belittled companion of her Aunt Cornelia. Jacinda only love & acceptance in her cold world are her BFFs, the newly married Lady Isabel & the widowed Lady Grace.
Jason may be the Earl of Northfield, but he also lived a self-imposed life devoid of love with endless, meaningless & soon forgotten affairs. He hates his dead father so much for all the beatings & his painful childhood that he is going to destroy his Father's everything, like bankruptcy to having the title die out with him. One drunken night, he sees the angelic Jacinda, he feel compelled to confess his plan & she makes him THINK about all the folks that depend on him for their livelihoods, so he decided he will be financial responsible, but he will never marry or have kids. That should show his father, or will it?
Jacinda's world is shaken up by a surprise Bday party & the mysterious gift of 'The Ladies' Book of Pleasures,' as she is soon eyeballed by the pain seeking Duke of Carnthorn & Jason whisks her away on the dance floor. The next day at her aunt's home the Duke of Evilness has the nerve to propose that she be his mistress & command her own life. And if that isn't enough, Jason comes right on Duke's heels as he leaves & Jacinda confuses the Duke's plans to him. Now being a male of the species, he goes right to the Duke's home, demands he leave Jacinda alone & soon the spin of lies begins! That is how Jason is on her window, peeking in as she is putting the Pleasure book to handy use, knocks, confesses what he has done & tells her his GLORIOUS PLAN to pretend to woo her, whet others appetite & find her a hubby. Since she has been handy with the book, she is braver & UPS his plan to her plan of TRAINING her as a mistress, just in case she decides to take that mistress road instead of the wife. What do they say about plans?
This begins the path of utter self discovery for Jacinda, with each form of pleasure is unwrapped, caressed, explored, denoted & rebuilt again to another erotic quest, as Jason melts her knees, undies evaporate, marrow liquefies & he is the open flame to her moist puddle of excruciating satisfaction. But the road of Jason's utter self destruction soon follows because with undies scorching & mind blow ecstasies comes uncovered hearts, damning choices like dreams or a lifetime of cold emptiness, as Jacinda does her own damage as Jason's heart explodes, implodes & soon CRAVES her light, joy & he begins to dream. Can Jacinda embrace her inner temptress & take what she wants? Is Jason willing to rethink his desolate life & accept her light? How will her cruel family screw this up for her? Will Isabel & Grace be able to protect their dear friend? Will the Duke of Evilness become a stumbling block or starting block for Jason? Who is the Fairy Godperson that gave Jacinda the book that turn her world inside out?
I discovered Ms. Michaels with the Albright Sisters series & she woke up my reading diet to domination. She made me rethink my small romance world & made me fall in love with her dominant male, the women who were brave & adventurous enough to take them on & my romance world was bigger, brighter & steamier! Jacinda was such a wilted, sad & lonely heroine, who was like sponge awaiting to soak up any love she could find. In my personal opinion, Jason was lucky that she soaked up what he had to give! Jason was vessel of pure anger when it came to his fathe, but his heart was also a sponge awaiting her love right back! Ms. Michaels writes great flaw filled characters & she slowly teases me with peeling each of their many layers back! Now this book didn't have that much dominance, but it was a jammed pack with PULL THE FIRE ALARM scenes & amazing uninhibited pleasure seeking moments! I loved reading Jacinda's journey of strength & courage, Jason's dead heart awakening & my heart broke for them both when it looked like the was NO ANSWERS to bring them together. Ms. Michaels is a big tease with holding back the knowledge of the mysterious Fairy Godperson gifting The Ladies' Book of Pleasures & I have to ask, where can I get a copy because I want my pleasure center set ablaze, too. A great romance takes me on a journey that is unexpected, makes me smile, maybe SNAUGH, scream, boo & yes cuss at the characters, cry my really UGLY cry, have my Kindle held hostage (I am a vocal person), wake up & liquefy my girlie parts & makes me BEGGING FOR a few extra pages because it was that AWESOME! Ms. Michaels delivered all those things to me & more (plus she OWES me 1 GIANT cookie because that is what I had to pay to get my Kindle back), so she gets my top score of 5 fingers up & 10 toes for this EXPLOSION of romance & write Gravels story FASTER!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
April 12, 2024
Passionate and protective! Cute
no-way-jose
November 22, 2021This book did nothing for me. I wasn't amazed, wow'ed or hooked.
At 22%, I found the heroine to be incredibly mousy yet at the same time make decisions for her life/future as if she was an experienced courtesan. The transition of her awakening to her sexual awareness was not smooth enough for me to find it remotely believable. Her dialogue about self-masturbation was so out of place for that time period, especially for such a wallflower.
The hero was nothing special, I couldn't pinpoint anything that I liked or disliked about him. The villainous Duke was an evil pervert that made me uncomfortable in his scenes with the heroine, as if he was on the verge of raping her at every meeting.
The series title is named correctly though, Book of Pleasures. As I could see this story was mainly focused on sex, talk of sex, pics of sex, etc. I wanted more from the emotions or feelings department, instead of relying just completely on sex.
At 22%, I found the heroine to be incredibly mousy yet at the same time make decisions for her life/future as if she was an experienced courtesan. The transition of her awakening to her sexual awareness was not smooth enough for me to find it remotely believable. Her dialogue about self-masturbation was so out of place for that time period, especially for such a wallflower.
The hero was nothing special, I couldn't pinpoint anything that I liked or disliked about him. The villainous Duke was an evil pervert that made me uncomfortable in his scenes with the heroine, as if he was on the verge of raping her at every meeting.
The series title is named correctly though, Book of Pleasures. As I could see this story was mainly focused on sex, talk of sex, pics of sex, etc. I wanted more from the emotions or feelings department, instead of relying just completely on sex.
August 2, 2014
I loved this book, and I loved Jason, "if you wanted to take a man as a protector, as your lover, I'm certain this ruse with me would make that easier as well," he said. "But are you truly ready for such a step? You told me that you knew where passion went and you didn't want it. I'm afraid it would be required for a mistress." He's honest, and I loved that, "he nodded. "Why do you think I knocked? I feared a swelling erection would push me from the ledge." She swallowed as her gaze moved to below his waist. Even now she saw the outline of his member against the dark fabric of his trousers. "If you continue staring at it, you will only make it worse," he said, his tone mild, though his eyes were full of fire." I loved the characters in this book.
October 4, 2014
3.75*
I loved Jacinda and Jason in this book. When we first met Jason in book one A Matter of Sin I really wasn't sure if I liked Jason and Jacinda was a bit of a mousy character. But when you put theses two together they explode as characters. They are a total compliment to each other. Jacinda had a ruined reputation and Jason being her life long friend decides to step in and help her attract a suitor. Jacinda wants more for she has decided she may want to become a mistress with some sinful help from Jason. I recommend this series to everyone who love erotic romance.
I loved Jacinda and Jason in this book. When we first met Jason in book one A Matter of Sin I really wasn't sure if I liked Jason and Jacinda was a bit of a mousy character. But when you put theses two together they explode as characters. They are a total compliment to each other. Jacinda had a ruined reputation and Jason being her life long friend decides to step in and help her attract a suitor. Jacinda wants more for she has decided she may want to become a mistress with some sinful help from Jason. I recommend this series to everyone who love erotic romance.
August 17, 2014
*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jacinda was an outcast from both the ton and her family after having been caught in a compromising position with a man who refused to marry her seven years earlier, so she was surprised when her best friends threw her a surprise twenty-fifth birthday party, and people actually showed up. She was even more surprised when she opened an anonymous birthday gift to find "The Ladies' Book of Pleasures." Thinking it to be a cruel joke because of her reputation as a fallen woman,she tries to hide the book. Her hopes that no one has seen her with it were dashed when the Duke of Carnthorn approaches her and offers to make her his mistress. Knowing that she has no real hope of marriage, Jacinda feels she must consider his offer if she ever wishes to get away from her loveless and often times cruel family.
Jason, the Earl of Northfield, had been childhood friends with Jacinda's brother, and was one of the few in the ton to not abandon her after "the incident" as she calls it. When he learns of Carnthorn's offer, he knows he must save Jacinda. As the ton's most eligible bachelor, Jason hatches a plan for a fake courtship with Jacinda with the hopes that it will make other gentlemen interested in her. Inspired by The Ladies' Book of Pleasure,Jacinda agrees to go along with the scheme, but only on the condition that Jason also teaches her about passion in the bedroom, just in case those offers of marriage never come and she becomes a mistress instead.
Jacinda and Jason are soon engaged in an intense affair in the bedroom, and what appears to be a whirlwind courtship in public. Jason has vowed never to be married, for reasons he has only shared with Jacinda, so he is dismayed when his feelings begin to grow. As Carnthorn becomes more and more of a threat, Jason must decide if his vow is worth keeping, or if he should risk it all to keep Jacinda.
I really enjoyed this book. It is the second in a series, but it is a stand alone. I haven't read the first book, but I am definitely adding it, and the next book to my list.
I went through a wide range of emotions while reading this book. I really felt both sad and angry by what both Jacinda and Jason went through at the hands of their family members, and I was really pulling for both of them throughout the entire book. I really felt like I connected with both characters and I could understand their motivations for doing something, even when I thought what they were doing was incredibly stupid for instance, when . I liked the way that they both grew and changed as people over the course of the story. I really appreciated that Jacinda was able to gain confidence and learn her own worth, and that Jason was able learn to let the past go and move on to a future that would truly make him happy. I loved the loyalty and the lack of judgement from their friends, and the support system that the women had for each other. I enjoyed the little quotes from the fictitious "Ladies' Book of Pleasure" at the beginning of each chapter. They were at times humorous, but also insightful and often mirrored what Jacinda was going through, both in a physical and emotional sense. The love scenes were plentiful and were very well written and creative. I absolutely loved the way that Jason declared his love, it was so sweet and endearing.
I really think this book was amazing, there were just a few nagging things that bothered me. First, we never got to know why Jacinda's father was so cruel, I know some people just are, but he seemed to treat her even worse than the others so I thought there might be more of a back story. The only other thing that really bothered me is that when Jacinda finally describes "the incident"
Jacinda was an outcast from both the ton and her family after having been caught in a compromising position with a man who refused to marry her seven years earlier, so she was surprised when her best friends threw her a surprise twenty-fifth birthday party, and people actually showed up. She was even more surprised when she opened an anonymous birthday gift to find "The Ladies' Book of Pleasures." Thinking it to be a cruel joke because of her reputation as a fallen woman,she tries to hide the book. Her hopes that no one has seen her with it were dashed when the Duke of Carnthorn approaches her and offers to make her his mistress. Knowing that she has no real hope of marriage, Jacinda feels she must consider his offer if she ever wishes to get away from her loveless and often times cruel family.
Jason, the Earl of Northfield, had been childhood friends with Jacinda's brother, and was one of the few in the ton to not abandon her after "the incident" as she calls it. When he learns of Carnthorn's offer, he knows he must save Jacinda. As the ton's most eligible bachelor, Jason hatches a plan for a fake courtship with Jacinda with the hopes that it will make other gentlemen interested in her. Inspired by The Ladies' Book of Pleasure,Jacinda agrees to go along with the scheme, but only on the condition that Jason also teaches her about passion in the bedroom, just in case those offers of marriage never come and she becomes a mistress instead.
Jacinda and Jason are soon engaged in an intense affair in the bedroom, and what appears to be a whirlwind courtship in public. Jason has vowed never to be married, for reasons he has only shared with Jacinda, so he is dismayed when his feelings begin to grow. As Carnthorn becomes more and more of a threat, Jason must decide if his vow is worth keeping, or if he should risk it all to keep Jacinda.
I really enjoyed this book. It is the second in a series, but it is a stand alone. I haven't read the first book, but I am definitely adding it, and the next book to my list.
I went through a wide range of emotions while reading this book. I really felt both sad and angry by what both Jacinda and Jason went through at the hands of their family members, and I was really pulling for both of them throughout the entire book. I really felt like I connected with both characters and I could understand their motivations for doing something, even when I thought what they were doing was incredibly stupid for instance, when . I liked the way that they both grew and changed as people over the course of the story. I really appreciated that Jacinda was able to gain confidence and learn her own worth, and that Jason was able learn to let the past go and move on to a future that would truly make him happy. I loved the loyalty and the lack of judgement from their friends, and the support system that the women had for each other. I enjoyed the little quotes from the fictitious "Ladies' Book of Pleasure" at the beginning of each chapter. They were at times humorous, but also insightful and often mirrored what Jacinda was going through, both in a physical and emotional sense. The love scenes were plentiful and were very well written and creative. I absolutely loved the way that Jason declared his love, it was so sweet and endearing.
I really think this book was amazing, there were just a few nagging things that bothered me. First, we never got to know why Jacinda's father was so cruel, I know some people just are, but he seemed to treat her even worse than the others so I thought there might be more of a back story. The only other thing that really bothered me is that when Jacinda finally describes "the incident"
August 9, 2014
I got this one from the author herself and it will be out officially in October and I tell you all that it's worth the waiting. It seems like it took me longer to read but I was busy with a root canal treatment and so not able to read because I was in pain, a little bit. Anyway ... I loved it. But I already loved part one of the Series.
So here about the book
And there is more more more - of course, passion, sex, passion ... and quite a good story line how hard it is to find your own way in a society who judges you for an impression they got. A society in which they didnt believe a woman's word if it was against a man's. A society where women had to fight to be seen, heard and felt.
Michaels describes very well, IMO, what the role of a "normal" wife was. Bear children. Period. There was no love involved usually because how many love matched have really existed? Give birth to a heir, a 2nd and 3rd son is welcome because just to be sure if one or the other doesnt survive childhood. Quite often it must have been a passionless life ...
But the story was great and I dearly hope that Jess Michaels wont let us wait too long for part 3!
I loved it!
So here about the book
And there is more more more - of course, passion, sex, passion ... and quite a good story line how hard it is to find your own way in a society who judges you for an impression they got. A society in which they didnt believe a woman's word if it was against a man's. A society where women had to fight to be seen, heard and felt.
Michaels describes very well, IMO, what the role of a "normal" wife was. Bear children. Period. There was no love involved usually because how many love matched have really existed? Give birth to a heir, a 2nd and 3rd son is welcome because just to be sure if one or the other doesnt survive childhood. Quite often it must have been a passionless life ...
But the story was great and I dearly hope that Jess Michaels wont let us wait too long for part 3!
I loved it!
October 19, 2014
In A Matter of Sin, the first book of the Ladies Book of Pleasures series, Jacinda's scandalous past is mentioned seemingly in passing, and in this story, we find out what truly happened. Jacinda and Jason have been friends for years. When Jacinda's past catches up to her with an indecent proposal, Jason is there to "fix" it. Take a rake who's adamantly against marrying and throw him together with a "friend" and he finds ways to help her that go beyond normal friendship, but he doesn't know why. Add a dose of passion and you get a steamy novel between 2 people who have settled for the worst, but, who together, overcome terrible pasts and find love. Upon learning of Jacinda's upbringing, you sympathize with the possible choices she has to make. The same goes for Jason. Which is what makes the two of them perfect for each other. A Moment of Passion is a great continuance in the series. Highly recommend it!
April 7, 2015
I enjoyed this second book in The Ladies' Book of Pleasure series. Well written and with lots of romance and drama. I enjoyed the characters from the first book popping into the story. You could read this as a stand alone if you wanted, but I recommend reading the set of three books in order for a better reading experience. Can't wait to read the last book about Grace.
Story - Drama 5/5
Grammar/Errors - 5/5 (A couple of spelling errors on the kindle but nothing major)
Writing style - Very good - smooth and it felt like Regency England 5/5
Main Characters - Well Drawn 5/5
Romance 5/5
Heat Level - Hot 18+
Story - Drama 5/5
Grammar/Errors - 5/5 (A couple of spelling errors on the kindle but nothing major)
Writing style - Very good - smooth and it felt like Regency England 5/5
Main Characters - Well Drawn 5/5
Romance 5/5
Heat Level - Hot 18+
July 22, 2017
A Moment of Passion is the second book in The Ladies' Book of Pleasures series. The author's warning: This book contains friends turning to lovers, a highly erotic secret affair, and a wicked villain who will destroy what he cannot have.
A Matter of Sin: 4- stars
A Moment of Passion: 4- stars
This story was not as melancholy in tone as the first but it did have glimpses of ongoing family cruelty which made me feel down after a while. I like how the chapters still begin with a quote from the scandalous pleasure book. I also like reading more about the friendships of Isabel, Jacinda, and Grace.
Lady Jacinda Downing has a past where she was ruined by a rogue and shunned by Society, and worse still, she's cruelly cut-off and unsupported by her family. Meanwhile, she is being stalked by the unsavoury Duke of Carnthorn so Jacinda enters into a fake courtship at the suggestion of an old friend, and surprisingly she asks for the benefits part due to the courage she gets from reading The Ladies Book of Pleasures. Jacinda is the classic historical Heroine who's suffered a scandal and had it rough, and needs a historical Hero to turn her world upside down.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is the Ton's most eligible bachelor, and Jacinda's long-time friend. He knows Jacinda is a true friend because only she knows the truth of his own past so he decides to help her reclaim her place in Society by proposing the pretend courtship. Jacinda then proposes the benefits part because she has secretly loved him since she was ten. Each time they meet they challenge each other by picking things to do from the naughty book. Fun. Jason has a painful past that contributes to his own issues but I thought he was quite switched on to the psychology of his own actions.
Jacinda and Jason's sexy times were intense and quite regular considering she was living with her Aunt under house arrest. How they managed to get together so often was interesting. Unfortunately their declarations of love dialogue at the end of the story is a bit cheesy, contrived, and rehearsed. Didn't move me but made me wince.
I recommend this story. So far it's a good (although melancholy) historical series.
A Matter of Sin: 4- stars
A Moment of Passion: 4- stars
This story was not as melancholy in tone as the first but it did have glimpses of ongoing family cruelty which made me feel down after a while. I like how the chapters still begin with a quote from the scandalous pleasure book. I also like reading more about the friendships of Isabel, Jacinda, and Grace.
Lady Jacinda Downing has a past where she was ruined by a rogue and shunned by Society, and worse still, she's cruelly cut-off and unsupported by her family. Meanwhile, she is being stalked by the unsavoury Duke of Carnthorn so Jacinda enters into a fake courtship at the suggestion of an old friend, and surprisingly she asks for the benefits part due to the courage she gets from reading The Ladies Book of Pleasures. Jacinda is the classic historical Heroine who's suffered a scandal and had it rough, and needs a historical Hero to turn her world upside down.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is the Ton's most eligible bachelor, and Jacinda's long-time friend. He knows Jacinda is a true friend because only she knows the truth of his own past so he decides to help her reclaim her place in Society by proposing the pretend courtship. Jacinda then proposes the benefits part because she has secretly loved him since she was ten. Each time they meet they challenge each other by picking things to do from the naughty book. Fun. Jason has a painful past that contributes to his own issues but I thought he was quite switched on to the psychology of his own actions.
Jacinda and Jason's sexy times were intense and quite regular considering she was living with her Aunt under house arrest. How they managed to get together so often was interesting. Unfortunately their declarations of love dialogue at the end of the story is a bit cheesy, contrived, and rehearsed. Didn't move me but made me wince.
I recommend this story. So far it's a good (although melancholy) historical series.
February 2, 2021
I enjoyed the book very much. This story has an intriguing plot and the flow was seamless. The characters were likeable. Although Jason kept saying he wouldn’t marry, he was kind and never cruel. Jacinda was ruined and ill-treated by her family. I didn’t agree with some of her actions but it were understandable due to her past/background. I felt the ending was sudden and too convenient. Also, the book contained my biggest pet peeve, incorrect forms of address. Duke or duchess are not addressed as my lord or my lady.
My star rating system:
5 stars: I loved it! 😍
4 stars: I enjoyed it but it could be better 😃
3 stars: It was OK 🙂
2 stars: I disliked it but not all aspects were bad 😒
1 star: I hated it and I regretted reading it 🤬
My star rating system:
5 stars: I loved it! 😍
4 stars: I enjoyed it but it could be better 😃
3 stars: It was OK 🙂
2 stars: I disliked it but not all aspects were bad 😒
1 star: I hated it and I regretted reading it 🤬
July 8, 2023
Jacinda is a ruined woman, shunned from society and her family. She is deeply lonely and tired of the life she has been forced into. When a Duke makes a scandalous proposal to her she is actually tempted so she can have freedom out from under her oppressive family.
Jason has been friends with Jacinda for years but he never realized how desperate she was to get a new life until she told him she was considering becoming a mistress. He certainly couldn't let that happen to her but no decent man looks at her due to her past. He hatches a plan to make the men of the ton notice her.
Another searing installment to the series.
Jason has been friends with Jacinda for years but he never realized how desperate she was to get a new life until she told him she was considering becoming a mistress. He certainly couldn't let that happen to her but no decent man looks at her due to her past. He hatches a plan to make the men of the ton notice her.
Another searing installment to the series.
November 22, 2017
Fairly similar to previous book.
December 31, 2017
A really good second instalment of this series! A lovely romantic tale of love between old friends! I really enjoyed it! Great!
September 3, 2019
Unexpectedly, this book made me tear up several times. The character arcs the two leads go through from their imprisonments in their own homes remind me so much of my own.
April 8, 2020
This story was OK. I always enjoy sneaking into bedroom windows.
July 18, 2020
Some five star moments. Steamy. Repetitive story ofmousy heroine.
February 21, 2022
Great book…. Highly recommended….
March 26, 2023
Love love loved it!! What a fantastic book for this series. I can’t say more except when Jason finally let’s go and declares his love, be ready to swoon , sigh and fall in love all over again 💜
April 17, 2021
Serinin diğer kitaplarını beğenen biri olarak bunun vasatın altında çıkması üzdü. Öncelikle Jason'nun Jacinda'yı zor durumundan kurtarmak için seçtiği yol mantıklı olsa da, bir de kızın cinsel eğitimini üstlenme nedenini çözemedim. Sonuçta iki karakter de birbirini o yönde arzulamıyordu, sadece çok yakın iki arkadaş oldukları söyleniyor bize. Sırf başka bir erkek Jacinda'ya bu teklifle geldi diye Jason'nun fırsatı kendine yönlendirmesi çok saçmaydı.
Yine seks üzerinden gidecek olursam, bunlar sürekli kızın evinde yiyişip durdular ama nasıl olduysa ne Jacinda'nın beraber yaşadığı teyzesi sonraki buluşmalarda gürültüsü artan hareketleri sezinledi ne de Jason eve girerken/evden çıkarken biri tarafından görüldü veya yakalandı.
Hikayenin kötü adamı aralarda dolanırken son bölümlere doğru yaptığı ani giriş ve o kısımlarda yaşananlar kitabı iyice saçma bir duruma sürükledi.
Sonuç olarak, ikilinin aşkının inandırıcı olmadığı, oldukça absürt bir hikaye okumuş oldum.
Yine seks üzerinden gidecek olursam, bunlar sürekli kızın evinde yiyişip durdular ama nasıl olduysa ne Jacinda'nın beraber yaşadığı teyzesi sonraki buluşmalarda gürültüsü artan hareketleri sezinledi ne de Jason eve girerken/evden çıkarken biri tarafından görüldü veya yakalandı.
Hikayenin kötü adamı aralarda dolanırken son bölümlere doğru yaptığı ani giriş ve o kısımlarda yaşananlar kitabı iyice saçma bir duruma sürükledi.
Sonuç olarak, ikilinin aşkının inandırıcı olmadığı, oldukça absürt bir hikaye okumuş oldum.
October 15, 2014
Lady Jacinda Downing was once the victim of a wily rogue’s game of seduction. Scorned and shunned by society, her family cuts her off and sends her to live with her vituperate aunt. Hopelessly ruined by the gossip-mongers, Jacinda believes herself doomed to live a lonely, penniless existence on the fringes of London society. Jacinda’s only saving grace is the enduring friendship of Isabel, Marchioness Lyndham, Grace, Duchess of Jameswood, and sometime even Jason, Earl of Northfield, for whom she has kept a terrible, drunken secret and has loved since she was a young woman. Together, Isabel and Grace throw Jacinda a surprise birthday party. In private, she is presented with gifts from her friends, but one mysterious gift shows up in the pile too — a copy of the illicit Ladies Book of Pleasures. At first, Jacinda believes someone is playing a cruel joke, but her friends encourage her to read the book anyways. Just as she begins perusing the inside, the Duke of Carnthorn interrupts and spots the scandalous book. Later, he uses this information and invites Jacinda to become his mistress. Jason, Earl of Northfield, cannot sit by and watch one of his only true friends fall victim to an abusive, perverted lowlife like Carnthorn. His angry words to the Duke land Jason and Jacinda in a false courtship that allows Jason may watch over her, a duty that quickly turns to passionate nights spent in Jacinda’s bed.
I felt so bad for Jacinda. She endures crippling humiliation on a near-daily basis and yet handles herself surprisingly well in the face of such adversity. Yet we see her private vulnerability too and while I didn’t think Jacinda always made the wisest decisions, Ms. Michaels does a good job of fleshing out Jacinda’s inner demons enough that a reader may begin to understand why she may choose that path. Over time, Jacinda begins to realize her own self-worth, taking a stand against her family and the society that rejected her through no fault of her own.
Jason has sworn off love, but it is clear through his actions towards Jacinda that he has always harbored at least some form of love for her. He is protective of her right from the start and possesses a dry, witty sense of humor. He always has Jacinda’s best interests at heart and never wavers in his loyalty.
Jason and Jacinda are a perfect match for one another, both experiencing deep betrayals from their family members and learning to grow past that hurt. Despite all she has been through, Jacinda grows into her new-found confidence with Jason. Jason, in turn, learns that a life in love with Jacinda is better than any vengeful hate he felt towards his father. Together, they form an unbreakable bond and forge ahead to build a family of their own, away from the ghosts of the past and those that didn’t want them. “A Moment of Passion” is a story of moving past family betrayal, recapturing your own self respect, and creating a life together with someone that brings you safety, passion, and love.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I felt so bad for Jacinda. She endures crippling humiliation on a near-daily basis and yet handles herself surprisingly well in the face of such adversity. Yet we see her private vulnerability too and while I didn’t think Jacinda always made the wisest decisions, Ms. Michaels does a good job of fleshing out Jacinda’s inner demons enough that a reader may begin to understand why she may choose that path. Over time, Jacinda begins to realize her own self-worth, taking a stand against her family and the society that rejected her through no fault of her own.
Jason has sworn off love, but it is clear through his actions towards Jacinda that he has always harbored at least some form of love for her. He is protective of her right from the start and possesses a dry, witty sense of humor. He always has Jacinda’s best interests at heart and never wavers in his loyalty.
Jason and Jacinda are a perfect match for one another, both experiencing deep betrayals from their family members and learning to grow past that hurt. Despite all she has been through, Jacinda grows into her new-found confidence with Jason. Jason, in turn, learns that a life in love with Jacinda is better than any vengeful hate he felt towards his father. Together, they form an unbreakable bond and forge ahead to build a family of their own, away from the ghosts of the past and those that didn’t want them. “A Moment of Passion” is a story of moving past family betrayal, recapturing your own self respect, and creating a life together with someone that brings you safety, passion, and love.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 13, 2014
I forgot how utterly lost I can get in Jess Michaels' writing. She has a way with words that truly makes the scene and characters come to life. It doesn't hurt to be quickly reminded just how much I love those she's created in the Ladies' Book of Pleasures series.
I really liked Jacinda as I got to know her during Isabel's story. Seeing her here and learning more about her I love her even more. She's the classic historical heroine who's had it rough and suffered a scandal, but the tragic details of that scandal are inconceivable. The very way her family has handled her fall from grace is appalling - they've shunned her right along with the rest of society. The way Jacinda has picked herself up and carried on is commendable, and now she's ready to move on to something more. Just what that will be is uncertain, but the options open to her are intriguing indeed.
I've said before that I'm a sucker for friends-to-lovers tropes, and this one is no exception. Jason is easily likable, and it's obvious he and Jacinda have a comfort and connection that goes back to much earlier times. The way each comes to realize that friendship is changing and evolving into something more intimate is sweet and seductive. I enjoy watching their mutual exploration and the revelations it brings with it.
If there's anything I wasn't 100% over the top about it's how quickly and easily Jason and Jacinda fall into their physical relationship. Michaels sets it up well and it's justified, I think I would just prefer a little slower pace with more time for anticipation to create a slow burn. I tend to enjoy that kind of build toward release in historicals, probably because of all the sexual tension created by impropriety. I suppose in this situation one could argue that Jacinda's already ruined and they've basically entered into an arrangement, so the build is unnecessary. I can see that, but for me I want to imagine the romance starts very early. :)
I have to commend Michaels on creating some truly vile, despicable characters. Of course there's Carnthorn and the difficulties he presents, but for me it's Aunt Cordelia who takes the cake. She's the quintessential crotchety old lady passing judgment on everyone which makes her so much fun to read! I don't think there's a single thing she wouldn't say - she's perfectly incapable of holding her tongue.
What I desperately want to know is if there's a real life equivalent to the Ladies' Book of Pleasure? That book is so scandalous, and the quotes as chapter headings are genius. Either there's an inspiration for those somewhere or Michaels is just that creative - I'm going with the latter. Oh and there's still the mystery of who actually wrote this carnal masterpiece? I guess only time will tell, but my money's still on Grace. ;)
This review can be found at www.3chicksafterdark.com.
I really liked Jacinda as I got to know her during Isabel's story. Seeing her here and learning more about her I love her even more. She's the classic historical heroine who's had it rough and suffered a scandal, but the tragic details of that scandal are inconceivable. The very way her family has handled her fall from grace is appalling - they've shunned her right along with the rest of society. The way Jacinda has picked herself up and carried on is commendable, and now she's ready to move on to something more. Just what that will be is uncertain, but the options open to her are intriguing indeed.
I've said before that I'm a sucker for friends-to-lovers tropes, and this one is no exception. Jason is easily likable, and it's obvious he and Jacinda have a comfort and connection that goes back to much earlier times. The way each comes to realize that friendship is changing and evolving into something more intimate is sweet and seductive. I enjoy watching their mutual exploration and the revelations it brings with it.
If there's anything I wasn't 100% over the top about it's how quickly and easily Jason and Jacinda fall into their physical relationship. Michaels sets it up well and it's justified, I think I would just prefer a little slower pace with more time for anticipation to create a slow burn. I tend to enjoy that kind of build toward release in historicals, probably because of all the sexual tension created by impropriety. I suppose in this situation one could argue that Jacinda's already ruined and they've basically entered into an arrangement, so the build is unnecessary. I can see that, but for me I want to imagine the romance starts very early. :)
I have to commend Michaels on creating some truly vile, despicable characters. Of course there's Carnthorn and the difficulties he presents, but for me it's Aunt Cordelia who takes the cake. She's the quintessential crotchety old lady passing judgment on everyone which makes her so much fun to read! I don't think there's a single thing she wouldn't say - she's perfectly incapable of holding her tongue.
What I desperately want to know is if there's a real life equivalent to the Ladies' Book of Pleasure? That book is so scandalous, and the quotes as chapter headings are genius. Either there's an inspiration for those somewhere or Michaels is just that creative - I'm going with the latter. Oh and there's still the mystery of who actually wrote this carnal masterpiece? I guess only time will tell, but my money's still on Grace. ;)
This review can be found at www.3chicksafterdark.com.
October 23, 2014
Exceptional ongoing series. Can't wait for the next one!
Happy for her dear friend, Isabel for finding love when she thought she never would, Lady Jacinda Downing wants the same for herself but knows it truly never will happen because she is completely ruined. When invited to a party being held by Isabel and her new husband, she reluctantly attends only to discover it’s a surprise birthday party for Jacinda. Her darling friends, Isabel and Grace, turn a normally ignored day into something very special. When she receives a gift from an anonymous guest, she’s shocked and amazed that it’s a copy of the scandalous Ladies’ Book of Pleasures. Even more humiliating is to have been seen looking at it by the dashing Duke of Carnthorn, who later makes her an offer which shocks her sensibilities yet gives her pause for thought when the suggestion may be her only chance for freedom without any chance of marriage.
Jason, Earl of Northfield has sworn to never marry but when his darling friend, Jacinda Downing tells him of an offer to become the mistress of the notoriously cruel Duke of Carnthorn, he decides he must save her from a terrible fate. He convinces her to allow him to make her attractive to marriage-minded men despite her ruined past. Pretending to court her brings her attention, secrets revealed, and a passion neither he nor Jacinda can deny or ignore.
A MOMENT OF PASSION by Jess Michaels is sweet, endearing, and contains enough passion my reader cut out on me twice the first night I was reading. Whether from the words on the screen or just a fluke, who cares, the steam was coming off the pages as soon as Jason and Jacinda entered their pact to find her a good husband. Although at times predictable, it doesn’t matter because the story flows so well, speeding through the pages guided by informative advice from the Ladies’ Book of Pleasures, which translate easily to every woman in any era, that I was glued to it.
It’s a joy to revisit Isabel and Grace as well as Jason and Seth. If you haven’t read book one, A MATTER OF SIN, absolutely do – Isabel and Seth fire up those pages too. Jess creates such wonderful three-dimensional characters that they nearly spring from the pages to sit beside you as you learn their stories.
I highly recommend this wonderful erotic historical romance from the mistress of erotic romance, Jess Michaels. A MOMENT OF PASSION will keep you turning the pages, anticipating Jason’s midnight visits, and wondering just who the intriguing author of the Ladies’ Book of Pleasures truly is and when we’ll discover the truth. I can’t wait to read book three, A MEASURE OF DECEIT – Lady Grace’s story – expected to release in December.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
Happy for her dear friend, Isabel for finding love when she thought she never would, Lady Jacinda Downing wants the same for herself but knows it truly never will happen because she is completely ruined. When invited to a party being held by Isabel and her new husband, she reluctantly attends only to discover it’s a surprise birthday party for Jacinda. Her darling friends, Isabel and Grace, turn a normally ignored day into something very special. When she receives a gift from an anonymous guest, she’s shocked and amazed that it’s a copy of the scandalous Ladies’ Book of Pleasures. Even more humiliating is to have been seen looking at it by the dashing Duke of Carnthorn, who later makes her an offer which shocks her sensibilities yet gives her pause for thought when the suggestion may be her only chance for freedom without any chance of marriage.
Jason, Earl of Northfield has sworn to never marry but when his darling friend, Jacinda Downing tells him of an offer to become the mistress of the notoriously cruel Duke of Carnthorn, he decides he must save her from a terrible fate. He convinces her to allow him to make her attractive to marriage-minded men despite her ruined past. Pretending to court her brings her attention, secrets revealed, and a passion neither he nor Jacinda can deny or ignore.
A MOMENT OF PASSION by Jess Michaels is sweet, endearing, and contains enough passion my reader cut out on me twice the first night I was reading. Whether from the words on the screen or just a fluke, who cares, the steam was coming off the pages as soon as Jason and Jacinda entered their pact to find her a good husband. Although at times predictable, it doesn’t matter because the story flows so well, speeding through the pages guided by informative advice from the Ladies’ Book of Pleasures, which translate easily to every woman in any era, that I was glued to it.
It’s a joy to revisit Isabel and Grace as well as Jason and Seth. If you haven’t read book one, A MATTER OF SIN, absolutely do – Isabel and Seth fire up those pages too. Jess creates such wonderful three-dimensional characters that they nearly spring from the pages to sit beside you as you learn their stories.
I highly recommend this wonderful erotic historical romance from the mistress of erotic romance, Jess Michaels. A MOMENT OF PASSION will keep you turning the pages, anticipating Jason’s midnight visits, and wondering just who the intriguing author of the Ladies’ Book of Pleasures truly is and when we’ll discover the truth. I can’t wait to read book three, A MEASURE OF DECEIT – Lady Grace’s story – expected to release in December.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
October 16, 2014
Great Friends to Lovers Historical
A MOMENT OF PASSION is the story of two friends who discover that they have been better friends than either expected and end up falling in lust and in love.
THE STORY: Lady Jacinda was dramatically ruined during her second season. She has lived a half life in the years since. When she is approached by the Duke of Carnthorn with the proposition that she become his mistress, she considers what she wants to do with her life. She is reluctantly intrigued with the offer. Her friend, Jason, Earl of Northfield is horrified that Jacinda would consider being the mistress of the Duke because he knows him to be a cruel lover who practices S&M to the point of scarring and rape. Jason offers to help Jacinda find a husband by pretending to be her suitor and thus attracting other men. He also offers to tutor her in sex in order to help her overcome her poor initiation. The two are soon involved in a sexual relationship that is made special between the two friends have feelings for one another. How will things end considering that Jason has vowed never to marry and Jacinda wants freedom from her familly?
OPINION: I really enjoyed this book. I liked it better than the first in the series because I thought that there was great respect between Lady Jacinda and Jason. Despite Jacinda's past, Jason does not judge her. Even when she is considering being a mistress, he doesn't demean her or judge her choices. Jacinda does not whine or complain or try and make Jason love her. He chooses her on his own seeing her strength and respecting her. I also thought the love scenes between these two were hot but not gratuitous. I also was intrigued by the fact that the villain is bad and yet Jacinda is not repulsed by him immediately. The book considers Jacinda's choices as complex and difficult to make. The focus here is on Jacinda's wish for freedom and the lack of choices that she has to gain that freedom. Freedom comes with a price and the question is what is Jacinda willing to pay for the freedom she wants.
WORTH MENTIONING: Fans of the series will be glad to see the couple from A MATTER OF SIN, Isabel and Seth, who are very happy.
FINAL DECISION: I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series. I really loved the trust and respect that exists between Jacinda and Jason and the romance between them is really sexy as a result.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A MOMENT OF PASSION is the second book in the Ladies' Book of Pleasures series. The book can be read independent of the other books in the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book a 4.25 stars.
A MOMENT OF PASSION is the story of two friends who discover that they have been better friends than either expected and end up falling in lust and in love.
THE STORY: Lady Jacinda was dramatically ruined during her second season. She has lived a half life in the years since. When she is approached by the Duke of Carnthorn with the proposition that she become his mistress, she considers what she wants to do with her life. She is reluctantly intrigued with the offer. Her friend, Jason, Earl of Northfield is horrified that Jacinda would consider being the mistress of the Duke because he knows him to be a cruel lover who practices S&M to the point of scarring and rape. Jason offers to help Jacinda find a husband by pretending to be her suitor and thus attracting other men. He also offers to tutor her in sex in order to help her overcome her poor initiation. The two are soon involved in a sexual relationship that is made special between the two friends have feelings for one another. How will things end considering that Jason has vowed never to marry and Jacinda wants freedom from her familly?
OPINION: I really enjoyed this book. I liked it better than the first in the series because I thought that there was great respect between Lady Jacinda and Jason. Despite Jacinda's past, Jason does not judge her. Even when she is considering being a mistress, he doesn't demean her or judge her choices. Jacinda does not whine or complain or try and make Jason love her. He chooses her on his own seeing her strength and respecting her. I also thought the love scenes between these two were hot but not gratuitous. I also was intrigued by the fact that the villain is bad and yet Jacinda is not repulsed by him immediately. The book considers Jacinda's choices as complex and difficult to make. The focus here is on Jacinda's wish for freedom and the lack of choices that she has to gain that freedom. Freedom comes with a price and the question is what is Jacinda willing to pay for the freedom she wants.
WORTH MENTIONING: Fans of the series will be glad to see the couple from A MATTER OF SIN, Isabel and Seth, who are very happy.
FINAL DECISION: I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series. I really loved the trust and respect that exists between Jacinda and Jason and the romance between them is really sexy as a result.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A MOMENT OF PASSION is the second book in the Ladies' Book of Pleasures series. The book can be read independent of the other books in the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book a 4.25 stars.
October 19, 2014
Warning: This review may contain spoilers
A Moment of Passion by Jess Michaels is the second book of The Ladies Book of Pleasures series and tells the story of Miss Jacinda Downing, a spinster brought to scandal by actions of a rogue who refused to marry her. Living in scandal, she is an unwanted companion to her Aunt Cornelia. She does have friends in the widowed Lady Grace and Lady Isabel (A Matter of Sin, Ladies book of Pleasures #1).
On her surprise birthday party, she is gifted by an anonymous person a scandalous book called The Ladies Book of Pleasures. Encouraged by her friends to read it, she does but is caught by the depraved Duke of Carnthron. He proposes that she becomes his mistress and she flatly denies him. Jason, the Earl of Northfield, a close friend of her brother, and someone she loved from a far since childhood comes to her rescue and proposes to help her find a husband. Jacinda bargains and asks him to teach her to be a mistress instead. So starts the romantic, steamy, and sizzling romance between Jacinda and Jason.
Although I liked Jason and Jacinda together, this book didn’t connect with me as much as I wanted it to. I thought that the reason behind Jason’s avoidance of love wasn’t as explored as I wanted it to be.
The story felt a little bit rushed to me and despite it being well written, I wasn’t wowed as I was with the first book, A Matter of Sin.
I am however, looking forward to the third book in the series, A Measure of Deceit!
This review was originally posted on my blog I Heart Romance
October 11, 2014
This is book 2 in the Ladies' Book of Pleasures series
Lady Jacinda is horrified when she opens up a birthday gift to see the much talked about Ladies Book of Pleasures. She doesn't need anything else to tarnish her already shaky reputation. Unfortunately, the Duke of Carnthorn sees her gift and wants her as his mistress.
Jason, the Earl of Northfield, is a longtime friend of Jacinda's and offers to act like he is courting her to keep Carnthorn away. But what happens when their pretend courtship turns into something more than just friendship?
I fell in love with Jason when I read A Matter of Sin. His personality just won me over, so I was excited to read his HEA. Michaels did not disappoint.
I loved that Jason stepped up to help Jacinda. It showed what type of man that he was and had me falling in love with him all over again. I also really liked Jacinda. She has a shy personality and Jason brought out the best in her.
The dialogue between the characters had me laughing outloud during several of the scenes. Always a plus in my eyes!
As with all her stories, Michaels has a way of drawing you in and making you believe that you have a personal relationship with the characters. I know I'm reading something really good when I actually feel the heartache of a character in the story. This happened multiple times throughout this story.
I can't wait to read Grace's story, A Measure of Deceit. My fingers are crossed that we get to see lots of Isabel & Seth as well as Jacinda & Jason.
Thanks go out to Samhain Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Lady Jacinda is horrified when she opens up a birthday gift to see the much talked about Ladies Book of Pleasures. She doesn't need anything else to tarnish her already shaky reputation. Unfortunately, the Duke of Carnthorn sees her gift and wants her as his mistress.
Jason, the Earl of Northfield, is a longtime friend of Jacinda's and offers to act like he is courting her to keep Carnthorn away. But what happens when their pretend courtship turns into something more than just friendship?
I fell in love with Jason when I read A Matter of Sin. His personality just won me over, so I was excited to read his HEA. Michaels did not disappoint.
I loved that Jason stepped up to help Jacinda. It showed what type of man that he was and had me falling in love with him all over again. I also really liked Jacinda. She has a shy personality and Jason brought out the best in her.
The dialogue between the characters had me laughing outloud during several of the scenes. Always a plus in my eyes!
As with all her stories, Michaels has a way of drawing you in and making you believe that you have a personal relationship with the characters. I know I'm reading something really good when I actually feel the heartache of a character in the story. This happened multiple times throughout this story.
I can't wait to read Grace's story, A Measure of Deceit. My fingers are crossed that we get to see lots of Isabel & Seth as well as Jacinda & Jason.
Thanks go out to Samhain Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
May 22, 2017
My FAVOURITE!!! <3
I am a big fan of Jess Michaels historical romances. I read the third book, A Measure of Deceit and needed to come back and re-read this. I wanted to remember the amazing feeling I had after reading A Moment of Passion..... It was even better this time!!!!
The Ladies Book of Pleasures, Book 2
When Lady Jacinda unwraps a scandalous birthday gift, she’s sure the anonymous giver is playing a cruel joke. The Ladies Book of Pleasures may be responsible for one gossiped-about marriage, but for a lady ruined by a rogue and shunned by society, Jacinda is doomed to a lonely, loveless future.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is having none of it. Jacinda, keeper of his most painful secret, is a friend he will not abandon to a wolf like Carnthorn. As they embark on a pretend courtship—for her own protection, of course—their proper decorum in public melts into wicked passion in the bedroom.
And so begins the intense and passionate education of Jacinda!!!!!! Swoon Jason. I loved the journey with Jacinda and Jason, even with Jacinda's despicable family as the villains. This is a really well written series. I recommend reading all three books:
A Moment of Sin
A Moment of Passion
A Measure of Deceit
Tears and Smiles!!!!
I am a big fan of Jess Michaels historical romances. I read the third book, A Measure of Deceit and needed to come back and re-read this. I wanted to remember the amazing feeling I had after reading A Moment of Passion..... It was even better this time!!!!
The Ladies Book of Pleasures, Book 2
When Lady Jacinda unwraps a scandalous birthday gift, she’s sure the anonymous giver is playing a cruel joke. The Ladies Book of Pleasures may be responsible for one gossiped-about marriage, but for a lady ruined by a rogue and shunned by society, Jacinda is doomed to a lonely, loveless future.
Jason, Earl of Northfield, is having none of it. Jacinda, keeper of his most painful secret, is a friend he will not abandon to a wolf like Carnthorn. As they embark on a pretend courtship—for her own protection, of course—their proper decorum in public melts into wicked passion in the bedroom.
And so begins the intense and passionate education of Jacinda!!!!!! Swoon Jason. I loved the journey with Jacinda and Jason, even with Jacinda's despicable family as the villains. This is a really well written series. I recommend reading all three books:
A Moment of Sin
A Moment of Passion
A Measure of Deceit
Tears and Smiles!!!!
October 23, 2014
Jason and Jacinda have been friends for many years. Even after the Incident drstroyed her reputation, Jason did not abandon her. Now seven years later and Jacinda is tired of living under her aunts thumb. She is intrigued when she receives the Lafies Book of Pleasures for her birthday. Even though she is "fallen", there was no pleasure in he act. When she receives a scandalous proposition, she thinks of it as a way out. Even if it ruins her forever at least it was a path she chose to take. As her friend Jadon is concerned that she is open to the proposition and makes her an offer himself. One that includes a sexual education. Jacinda know that nothing long term can happen with Jadon for he had vowed to never marry. I liked that even though Jacinda was in a vulnerable position she was trying to make something different happen for her. She was no longer going to be passive in her own life.
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