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Marlowe #2
Tempted By the Night
A Secret Admirer . . . They say he's a shameless rake who cares for nothing but pleasure, a rogue who spends his nights in London's lustiest locales, gambling and carousing until dawn. But Lady Hermione Marlowe refuses to believe that the handsome gentleman she's loved from afar for so long could be so wicked. If only she had a way to prove to the ton that Lord Rockhurst is as proper as the rest. If only she knew what he really did under cover of the night . . . A Clandestine Encounter . . . Lord Rockhurst knows what they say about him, and he doesn't care. Let them think his nights are filled with craven debauchery. Only he knows his true purpose, his dangerous goal. But when a mysterious woman falls into his arms—and thereby saves his life—Rockhurst will struggle to save his secret. Who is this creature with such tempting curves and an enticing touch? Rockhurst can only wonder how he can trust her . . . for he knows he cannot resist her.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
98 people are currently reading
732 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Boyle
90 books2,083 followersElizabeth Boyle is the New York Times bestselling author of 27 historical romance novels and several novellas. Her upcoming novel, O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, is a mix of women's fiction and historical fiction, with a bit of magic thrown in. This story of friendship and empowerment is already getting rave reviews.
Her first novel, Brazen Angel, won Dell's Diamond Debut Award and the Romance Writers of America's RITA Award for Best First Book. Her books are called "fast-paced," "adventurous," and "funny."
Not sure where to begin? If you love adventure, try THIS RAKE OF MINE or ONE NIGHT OF PASSION.
If you need to laugh, SOMETHING ABOUT EMMALINE, LOVE LETTERS FROM A DUKE, or THE VISCOUNT WHO LIVED DOWN THE LANE.
Want a little magic in your romance? Try HIS MISTRESS BY MORNING.
When not writing, Elizabeth enjoys knitting, gardening, travel and reading a wide variety of stories. She lives with her family in Seattle.
Sign up for her weekly newsletter, Five Things for Friday on her website. A weekly roundup of books, shows, and things to cook or laugh over, her readers love this weekly laugh.
Her first novel, Brazen Angel, won Dell's Diamond Debut Award and the Romance Writers of America's RITA Award for Best First Book. Her books are called "fast-paced," "adventurous," and "funny."
Not sure where to begin? If you love adventure, try THIS RAKE OF MINE or ONE NIGHT OF PASSION.
If you need to laugh, SOMETHING ABOUT EMMALINE, LOVE LETTERS FROM A DUKE, or THE VISCOUNT WHO LIVED DOWN THE LANE.
Want a little magic in your romance? Try HIS MISTRESS BY MORNING.
When not writing, Elizabeth enjoys knitting, gardening, travel and reading a wide variety of stories. She lives with her family in Seattle.
Sign up for her weekly newsletter, Five Things for Friday on her website. A weekly roundup of books, shows, and things to cook or laugh over, her readers love this weekly laugh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
July 15, 2015
When I picked up this book, I was expecting a story about a young miss, a normal misunderstood bloke and their very normal love story. I mean, that was what was said in the excerpt, right, so who was I to think differently? But boy, was I wrong. What I got was a completely ridiculous and confusing tale with invisibility spells, gore, and a list of jargons that were barely explained. "Paratus", "Melaphor", "derga"? WHAT? You know, I could have been more forgiving if the writer had only bothered to explain the situation early on in the book, rather than leaving me to deduce what the hell was happening. The author should have explained things for the benefit of those who weren't able to read the first book. Half of the time I was too preoccupied to make sense of what I was reading that I wasn't able to appreciate the characters.
Not that there was a lot to appreciate anyway. As harsh as it may sound, I really couldn't make myself like Hermione and Rockhurst. Hermione was a silly girl who was really too stupid to live, while Rockhurst was a bloody bastard who didn't have a likeable bone in his body. Another problem I have with this book was the fact that Rockhurst and Hermione never talked to each other until almost halfway through the book. What the fuck? Also, this was probably the first time I read of a hero who wanted to kill the heroine after almost making love to her.
Granted, his being a Paratus (rolls eyes) had something to do with that, but seriously, if I wanted to read ridiculous shit like this I would have just grabbed the nearest EL James or Anna Todd book and be done with it. God. But I guess that wasn't enough. The writer had to add gore and a murdered dog into the mix. Bloody hell.
I wouldn't, for the life of me, recommend this to anyone. Many people are suffering enough in the world as it is.
October 23, 2023
I had a very fun time with this but I can’t fully recommend it without having the chance to be VERY pissed off that there was a brutal on-page death of his dog. Just full on dead dog. Not okay. Was the dog replaced? Of course, but WHY?? Especially when there’s a magical ring and one could I don’t know WISH TO BRING HIM BACK TO LIFE. Besides that it was great and would’ve been five stars. But it’s a huge besides. Also the series is unfinished and that hurts as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2008
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release Sep08
If you had a magic ring and could make one wish, what would it be? Now imagine you are a typical regency miss secretly in love with a dashing rogue of a Lord and you get the wish…what now? Well, that’s pretty much the plot of “Tempted By The Night” by Elizabeth Boyle. This is her second book in the ‘Marlow’ series about a family who comes into possession of a magic ring that grants the holder one wish…then forces events to cause the wish to come to fruition. An interesting twist on a ‘genie-type’ theme.
Elizabeth Boyle’s writing is witty and fresh, as is her norm. Her characters have full personalities and quirks that you just don’t normally see in a historical romance, much less a regency! I’m pretty sure she’s the first regency author to use a transvestite ‘madam’; at least that I’ve ever read! There’s plenty of humor to keep you smiling, but not enough to turn the story into a satire. Her secondary characters are fully integrated into the plot and you’ll find yourself hoping they get their own book just to read more about them!
When Hermione (our heroine) and Rockhurst (our hero) are together, you can almost see the sparks jumping off the page. I enjoy the fact that both of them aren’t TOO good or TOO bad. That means they’re closer to human than myth for me. In this story, the bad guys, however, are REALLY, REALLY bad. They’re denizens of hell. Truly! And only our hero and heroine, working in concert, can prevent their entry in our world.
I enjoyed “Tempted By The Night” by Elizabeth Boyle. This light-hearted story is a strange mix of historical, regency, paranormal, mystery, and romance and somehow the author makes it work. I couldn’t find any information on her next book about the Marlow family, but if you pay a visit to her website I’m sure there should be some information on it soon. Check out www.elizabethboyle.com for further details.
If you had a magic ring and could make one wish, what would it be? Now imagine you are a typical regency miss secretly in love with a dashing rogue of a Lord and you get the wish…what now? Well, that’s pretty much the plot of “Tempted By The Night” by Elizabeth Boyle. This is her second book in the ‘Marlow’ series about a family who comes into possession of a magic ring that grants the holder one wish…then forces events to cause the wish to come to fruition. An interesting twist on a ‘genie-type’ theme.
Elizabeth Boyle’s writing is witty and fresh, as is her norm. Her characters have full personalities and quirks that you just don’t normally see in a historical romance, much less a regency! I’m pretty sure she’s the first regency author to use a transvestite ‘madam’; at least that I’ve ever read! There’s plenty of humor to keep you smiling, but not enough to turn the story into a satire. Her secondary characters are fully integrated into the plot and you’ll find yourself hoping they get their own book just to read more about them!
When Hermione (our heroine) and Rockhurst (our hero) are together, you can almost see the sparks jumping off the page. I enjoy the fact that both of them aren’t TOO good or TOO bad. That means they’re closer to human than myth for me. In this story, the bad guys, however, are REALLY, REALLY bad. They’re denizens of hell. Truly! And only our hero and heroine, working in concert, can prevent their entry in our world.
I enjoyed “Tempted By The Night” by Elizabeth Boyle. This light-hearted story is a strange mix of historical, regency, paranormal, mystery, and romance and somehow the author makes it work. I couldn’t find any information on her next book about the Marlow family, but if you pay a visit to her website I’m sure there should be some information on it soon. Check out www.elizabethboyle.com for further details.
January 24, 2019
My first read by Elizabeth Boyle combines paranormal and historical in one romance, something I do not read often and I do adored it.
Outside Hermione’s wish, there was so much more to the plot.
I do loved the trope of the invisible woman even when in plain sight who becomes desirable once invisible because of her true self.
I was not sure I would love Lady Hermione Marlowe at first, I thought first she was very inconsistent, only thinking of gowns colors and embroidered gloves but the more I watched her act and react, the more I fell for her and her different view of things and her quick wit and her fussing about her ruined clothes. Even if I would I liked her at the beginning to respond faster but then I had to remind me, she has no clue of what she was facing.
Lord Rockhurst makes things do, it is his destiny, he fights and survives. Despite everything, he kept a certain sense of humor, and soon he finds himself among the London society, meddling with Matrons and their daughters while seeking for a strange and evasive lady who awakes unknown feelings to him.
It was a nice witty and sexy read with a fantasy side.
Outside Hermione’s wish, there was so much more to the plot.
I do loved the trope of the invisible woman even when in plain sight who becomes desirable once invisible because of her true self.
I was not sure I would love Lady Hermione Marlowe at first, I thought first she was very inconsistent, only thinking of gowns colors and embroidered gloves but the more I watched her act and react, the more I fell for her and her different view of things and her quick wit and her fussing about her ruined clothes. Even if I would I liked her at the beginning to respond faster but then I had to remind me, she has no clue of what she was facing.
Lord Rockhurst makes things do, it is his destiny, he fights and survives. Despite everything, he kept a certain sense of humor, and soon he finds himself among the London society, meddling with Matrons and their daughters while seeking for a strange and evasive lady who awakes unknown feelings to him.
It was a nice witty and sexy read with a fantasy side.
June 7, 2009
Elizabeth Boyle's latest historical, Tempted by the Night is a bit deceiving, especially by the cover. You would think this is a straight up historical romance. That is not the case. This is a historical paranormal romance and the next book in her Marlowe series about a very eccentric family who barely has any money and a mother who makes her children’s lives a bit crazy. Tempted by the Night is about Hermione Marlowe, the sister of Sebastian, who was the hero in His Mistress by Morning. If you read His Mistress by Morning, then you know about a magic ring that is being tossed around. Anyone who wears the ring and makes a wish, that wish will come true. Hermione is the lucky girl this time to be in possession of the ring. Herimone or Minny as she is called by her friends and family has it bad for Thomas, the Earl of Rockhurst. He doesn’t even know she is alive and Herimone is so far gone over the man she can hardly speak when she sees him. All she can do is moon over the handsome Earl and say, “Jiminy!” too many times to count. Yup, she is one of those heroines that has an annoying catch phrase.
Herimone wishes she was an invisible phantom from sunset to sunrise so she could follow Rockhurst around and find out all of his secrets. And guess what happens? Her wish comes true. Now poor Minny is invisible the moment the sun sets. This gives her the perfect reason to stalk Rochurst. And as she watches Rockhurst, who has a habit of going out late at night, she expects him to drink and whore the night away like most of the gentlemen of his ilk. Instead Rockhurst is on a special mission. He is known as the Paratus, a title passed down from his family from generation to generation. He must defeat the evil specter that is called Melaphor, who comes from another dimension and is killing people. Rockhurst, a.k.a. the Paratus must try and stop Melaphor from his reign of terror and either kill him or force him back to where he came from. But these two are equal in their abilities to stop one another and can never defeat the other. That is until, Rockhurst realizes he has a shadow, an invisible woman who tries to defend him.
This is where the story gets a little strange. Rockhurst is fine with some invisible London miss following him wherever he goes even though she won’t say who she is. Herimone is afraid that if Rockhurst finds out who she is, he will run the other way and be disgusted with her. These two have actual conversations while Herimone is invisible. And the kicker? Rockhurst proceeds to have sex with Herimone many times while she is invisible and nameless, only calling her his Shadow. Some have raised the all important question whether Rockhurst can aim or see certain parts of his involved in the actual act since Herimone is invisible during it. Boyle solves this dilemma by having Rockhurst close his eyes. Apparently his skills go beyond just fighting forces of evil. He is quite skilled at having sex with an invisible partner.
If you can put all that aside, Tempted by the Night is actually a fun read, mainly because of the antics of the invisible super girl that is Herimone. For laughs and some interesting invisible action, try Tempted by the Night.
Herimone wishes she was an invisible phantom from sunset to sunrise so she could follow Rockhurst around and find out all of his secrets. And guess what happens? Her wish comes true. Now poor Minny is invisible the moment the sun sets. This gives her the perfect reason to stalk Rochurst. And as she watches Rockhurst, who has a habit of going out late at night, she expects him to drink and whore the night away like most of the gentlemen of his ilk. Instead Rockhurst is on a special mission. He is known as the Paratus, a title passed down from his family from generation to generation. He must defeat the evil specter that is called Melaphor, who comes from another dimension and is killing people. Rockhurst, a.k.a. the Paratus must try and stop Melaphor from his reign of terror and either kill him or force him back to where he came from. But these two are equal in their abilities to stop one another and can never defeat the other. That is until, Rockhurst realizes he has a shadow, an invisible woman who tries to defend him.
This is where the story gets a little strange. Rockhurst is fine with some invisible London miss following him wherever he goes even though she won’t say who she is. Herimone is afraid that if Rockhurst finds out who she is, he will run the other way and be disgusted with her. These two have actual conversations while Herimone is invisible. And the kicker? Rockhurst proceeds to have sex with Herimone many times while she is invisible and nameless, only calling her his Shadow. Some have raised the all important question whether Rockhurst can aim or see certain parts of his involved in the actual act since Herimone is invisible during it. Boyle solves this dilemma by having Rockhurst close his eyes. Apparently his skills go beyond just fighting forces of evil. He is quite skilled at having sex with an invisible partner.
If you can put all that aside, Tempted by the Night is actually a fun read, mainly because of the antics of the invisible super girl that is Herimone. For laughs and some interesting invisible action, try Tempted by the Night.
January 23, 2019
Loved this book - quick wit, a lovely story, and fascinating characters. Absolutely wonderful!
October 28, 2022
We're still annoyed that the Marlowe series is unfinished. This book, like the previous (His Mistress By Morning), combine Elizabeth Boyle's trademark breezy, lighthearted take on Regency romance with a true paranormal romance.
You see, Lord Rockhurst is not only a handsome, rakish nobleman. He's also the Paratus, a legendary warrior who protects London from supernatural threats. Hermione Marlowe has been in love with him from afar. One night, she makes a (strangely detailed) wish: that she be invisible from dusk until dawn so that she can discover all of his secrets, AND so that he can discover hers.
If you figure that one of their secrets is that they're desperately attracted to each other, you're right. But there's a lot more going on in this deceptively simple tale!
28-Word Summaries:
Meg: If I were magically compelled to protect Regency London from otherworldly threats, I know that the woman I’d fall in love with would be an invisible wallflower - literally.
Laine: When you wish to know a man's every secret you definitely are not expecting him to be the heir to a supernatural pact to protect all of humanity.
You see, Lord Rockhurst is not only a handsome, rakish nobleman. He's also the Paratus, a legendary warrior who protects London from supernatural threats. Hermione Marlowe has been in love with him from afar. One night, she makes a (strangely detailed) wish: that she be invisible from dusk until dawn so that she can discover all of his secrets, AND so that he can discover hers.
If you figure that one of their secrets is that they're desperately attracted to each other, you're right. But there's a lot more going on in this deceptively simple tale!
28-Word Summaries:
Meg: If I were magically compelled to protect Regency London from otherworldly threats, I know that the woman I’d fall in love with would be an invisible wallflower - literally.
Laine: When you wish to know a man's every secret you definitely are not expecting him to be the heir to a supernatural pact to protect all of humanity.
September 10, 2023
I need Elizabeth Boyle to finish this series!!! #moremarlowes please!!!! Rockhurst is the Protector of London and gives off do many hot protector vibes. Hermione is such a witty wallflower! She is empowered when she is granted a wish and she learns to fight for and with the love of her life. The chemistry between these two is incredibly hot as they protect the realm and fall in love.
September 29, 2008
it keep me up all night to finish this book. it was very sweet story. enjoyable ..
June 14, 2011
I loved this book! Just what I needed..... Humor
July 8, 2011
Supernatural and titillating. So much fun!
January 13, 2021
Interesting paranormal romance
4 stars
Lady Hermione Marlowe has been in love with Lord Rockhurst forever. Despite the gossip, she refuses to believe that the handsome, mysterious man is as wicked and scandalous as they say he is. She just wishes he knew she existed.
Lord Rockhurst doesn't care about his reputation as he has more pressing, and dangerous matters to deal with. But when a mysterious woman ends up falling into his arms, and saving his life, he realises that perhaps there is more to life than the quest he is on as whoever this woman is, he can't resist her and that could be disastrous for everyone.
This is the second book in Elizabeth Boyle's Marlowe Series (after the brilliant His Mistress By Morning) and while it probably does stand alone, I think that by reading them in order will make the magical element of this book a little easier to understand.
When I first picked it up I didn't realise that this was a paranormal historical and that's really not really the kind of book I usually enjoy. Having said that, I did very much enjoy the story as despite the magic and supernatural goings on, it wasn't scary and it was still a good romance.
I love a good tortured hero and Lord Rockhurst was certainly that. Hermione was a great feisty heroine and I loved how, due to Hermione's affliction of invisibility, you really felt like the characters got to know each other which made their falling in love all the more real.
Despite enjoying the book, I don't think I'm likely to read any more paranormal romance but I would still recommend this book if you're a fan of Elizabeth Boyle or if you just like a good romance with some fun action thrown in. 4 stars.
October 5, 2009
I might have laughed at Rockhurst a bit more then one should. Not in a bad way mind you, but its simply hilarious that the man is so awesome in so many ways, yet sadly doesn't understand that showing up at society's biggest event of the week, Almack's, he just made himself the most sought after man in town. Not just from hell demons, oh no, much worse. Now every marriage-minded mama wanted a piece of him.
I quite enjoyed the exchanges between himself and his cousin Mary, an avowed bluestocking. Other then invisible!Hermione no one else talked to him so freely. Well no one else female. Hermione was a puzzle to me. She was an odd mixture of typical fluff-headed debutante (even though she wasn't one) with no more then color, lace and style of dress on her mind and fierce she-cat. I felt so bad for her at first, when she's so awkward and timid. I was heartily happy when she began opening up (even if she had to be invisible to do it).
I hadn't read the book that is the lead-in companion, His Mistress by Morning, about Hermione's older brother Sebastian and his love of life Charlotte's adventures with Quince and her ring of magicks, but it wasn't a bother. Other then missing the original introduction of many of the characters, Sebastian/Charlotte aren't a big part of the book. They're mentioned, but not in a way that would confuse a reader.
I only became slightly peeved at how easily it seemed that Hermione could fool Rockhurst. While invisible Hermione never revealed who she was to him, out of low self-esteem issues, but I would have thought that Rockhurst would know somehow. I did however fall in love with the archery contest closer to the end. The scene at sunset was vivid as was how Rockhurst must have felt.
I quite enjoyed the exchanges between himself and his cousin Mary, an avowed bluestocking. Other then invisible!Hermione no one else talked to him so freely. Well no one else female. Hermione was a puzzle to me. She was an odd mixture of typical fluff-headed debutante (even though she wasn't one) with no more then color, lace and style of dress on her mind and fierce she-cat. I felt so bad for her at first, when she's so awkward and timid. I was heartily happy when she began opening up (even if she had to be invisible to do it).
I hadn't read the book that is the lead-in companion, His Mistress by Morning, about Hermione's older brother Sebastian and his love of life Charlotte's adventures with Quince and her ring of magicks, but it wasn't a bother. Other then missing the original introduction of many of the characters, Sebastian/Charlotte aren't a big part of the book. They're mentioned, but not in a way that would confuse a reader.
I only became slightly peeved at how easily it seemed that Hermione could fool Rockhurst. While invisible Hermione never revealed who she was to him, out of low self-esteem issues, but I would have thought that Rockhurst would know somehow. I did however fall in love with the archery contest closer to the end. The scene at sunset was vivid as was how Rockhurst must have felt.
February 8, 2013
I was expecting a straight forward historical romance, but I got a little surprise...it's a paranormal as well. It does seem that more authors are jumping on the paranormal bandwagon, some I've been turned off by, but this one I was pleasantly surprised.
The characters are wonderful. Hermione/Shadow, the heroine is shy (at least with the hero), curious, funny and also has a very quick temper - she reminds me of someone!. Rockhurst, the hero, is considered to be a rake, but he has his own little masquerade going on. He alone is the protector against those things that go bump in the night. His only companion is his wolfhound Rowan, well, until Hermione stumbles upon the truth.
It was only after I started reading the book that I found out it was the second of a series. I'm not sure if I'll read the first book, but I'll definitely be looking (hoping) for more of "those" Marlowe's.
4.5/5
The characters are wonderful. Hermione/Shadow, the heroine is shy (at least with the hero), curious, funny and also has a very quick temper - she reminds me of someone!. Rockhurst, the hero, is considered to be a rake, but he has his own little masquerade going on. He alone is the protector against those things that go bump in the night. His only companion is his wolfhound Rowan, well, until Hermione stumbles upon the truth.
It was only after I started reading the book that I found out it was the second of a series. I'm not sure if I'll read the first book, but I'll definitely be looking (hoping) for more of "those" Marlowe's.
4.5/5
September 9, 2008
I enjoyed this book. I usually do not like historical romance with elements of magic, but this one was an exception. The idea of becoming invisible at dusk every night was used well as a plot device.
October 15, 2017
Rating: 1.5/5
Definitely could’ve been better both on the romance side of things and the ‘nightly pursuits.’ It just seemed very half-baked and superficial. A little bit more introspection would’ve worked well for the couple.
Definitely could’ve been better both on the romance side of things and the ‘nightly pursuits.’ It just seemed very half-baked and superficial. A little bit more introspection would’ve worked well for the couple.
May 6, 2018
pleasantly surprised by this one. didn't realize it was a regency romance with a paranormal twist to it, even better! it seemed a little outlandish at first but once you get into it quite entertaining. "Have faith little Shadow,...you know who I am." She did. And now she wished she didnt.
May 21, 2021
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 4! This was a lot of fun!!!
July 30, 2022
Definitely not going to be for everyone. Not your typical historical romance. Still entertaining though.
February 4, 2016
None of this book made sense. The writing was definitely not perfect with the occasional errors and typos, the plot and a number of concepts that were introduced WERE interesting at first but were executed poorly, and the characters were fucking ridiculous to the point that I wanted to slap them all.
I was so lost, so uninvolved, so unimpressed, and i completely blame the author for this.
My following review has spoilers so im just going to hide it all.
I was so lost, so uninvolved, so unimpressed, and i completely blame the author for this.
My following review has spoilers so im just going to hide it all.
August 16, 2021
My favorite part of this was the paranormal aspect. I really enjoyed Rockhurst's sort-of demon hunter persona, and I did find the magical ring that grants the heroine's wish to be a fun part of the story as well. I enjoyed the cat and mouse game our heroine played with him as he so desperately sought out her identity.
However, my main complaint is that nothing is explained very well. Now I know this is the second in the series and I did not read the first, so I have no idea if there are better explanations given in the first installment or not. There are some references to it in this that make me think atleast more information about the magical ring is a possibility, but there is very little back story given about Rockhurst's role as Paratus or on the magical ring, which I thought were the most interesting parts of the story. I think a lot of this was wasted potential. I feel like there could have been so much more done with it than what was given. Everything just seemed rushed. But again, maybe it's in the first one...?
Also the love scenes were interesting to say the least. If you ever wanted to know what it's like to have sex with someone invisible, then this is the book for you. I'm really not sure how I feel about Rockhurst being such a skilled lover without being able to see the other person at all. It was kind of weird.
However, my main complaint is that nothing is explained very well. Now I know this is the second in the series and I did not read the first, so I have no idea if there are better explanations given in the first installment or not. There are some references to it in this that make me think atleast more information about the magical ring is a possibility, but there is very little back story given about Rockhurst's role as Paratus or on the magical ring, which I thought were the most interesting parts of the story. I think a lot of this was wasted potential. I feel like there could have been so much more done with it than what was given. Everything just seemed rushed. But again, maybe it's in the first one...?
Also the love scenes were interesting to say the least. If you ever wanted to know what it's like to have sex with someone invisible, then this is the book for you. I'm really not sure how I feel about Rockhurst being such a skilled lover without being able to see the other person at all. It was kind of weird.
October 15, 2024
I've only been reading romance for a few years. My literary tastes were formed by science fiction, fantasy and horror, with a smattering of historical novels, mysteries and thrillers. It took me quite awhile to warm to the genre and I'm pretty much stuck in regencies and victorians.
I can deal with the Regency era, or the Victorian era, as just another fantasy type setting. The more I look at it as a historical era, the less I enjoy it. I have a hard time dealing with true fantasy, in the sense of magic, or action, in romance. The point of the magic or the action is very different than in those genres. I've read quite a bit of Amanda Quick, but her fantasy elements are, in many of her works, is overt but subtle. It's not dealing with non human monsters, or the fae realm or casting outright spells.
That's a long way of saying, this book does. Monsters, Fae, wishes, magic rings, etc. And it does it well. The tropes of the Regency Romance are paramount in the plot. I enjoyed it tremendously and looking around, I'm disappointed this wasn't part of a larger series.
I can deal with the Regency era, or the Victorian era, as just another fantasy type setting. The more I look at it as a historical era, the less I enjoy it. I have a hard time dealing with true fantasy, in the sense of magic, or action, in romance. The point of the magic or the action is very different than in those genres. I've read quite a bit of Amanda Quick, but her fantasy elements are, in many of her works, is overt but subtle. It's not dealing with non human monsters, or the fae realm or casting outright spells.
That's a long way of saying, this book does. Monsters, Fae, wishes, magic rings, etc. And it does it well. The tropes of the Regency Romance are paramount in the plot. I enjoyed it tremendously and looking around, I'm disappointed this wasn't part of a larger series.
May 4, 2021
Loved the first book because of the magical/paranormal aspects which brought so many unexpected things!!!
And this book is way more into paranormal with an invisible heroine and a kick-ass fighter hero. BIG Buffy vibes!!!! Prepare yourself. It's not your classic historical romance, and hell yeh for that. Rockhurst is the epitome of heroes and Hermione is GOLD. It's hard to read a "normal" historical after that, as the stakes classical heroes are facing are ridiculous compare to protecting the people of London and saving the world from evil.
We want #MoreMarlowes!!!! Because yes, some of us LOVE to spice their historical with a bit (or A LOT) of paranormal. THANK YOU Elizabeth Boyle for making me realize that.
And this book is way more into paranormal with an invisible heroine and a kick-ass fighter hero. BIG Buffy vibes!!!! Prepare yourself. It's not your classic historical romance, and hell yeh for that. Rockhurst is the epitome of heroes and Hermione is GOLD. It's hard to read a "normal" historical after that, as the stakes classical heroes are facing are ridiculous compare to protecting the people of London and saving the world from evil.
We want #MoreMarlowes!!!! Because yes, some of us LOVE to spice their historical with a bit (or A LOT) of paranormal. THANK YOU Elizabeth Boyle for making me realize that.
September 28, 2022
This.Was.Sooo.Good. Really, such an unexpected delight. Romance part was perfect, paranormal plot was interesting, and the humour didn’t disappoint! I loved the first book in the series, but this in this one I found my new favourite. I can’t understand why this series wasn’t continued past this novel, because it left me craving more. I can just join #MoreMarlowes crowd in hoping we’ll one day get more book in this series!
November 25, 2019
Do not be fooled by the cover or synopsis: this is not a standard, run-of-the-mill Regency romance with some steamy love scenes. This is a paranormal romance, set in the backdrop of Regency England, with magic rings, demons, and a brooding lone Protector, or Paratus, of the Realm. And featuring several rather graphic love scenes in the midst of the madness (tame, compared to actual erotica, I'm sure, but still fairly steamy).
And not gonna lie.... I kinda loved it.
Okay, at first, the fantasy aspect did throw me for a loop. Judging by the story's synopsis, I was expecting the brooding, "bad boy" love interest, Lord Rockhurst, to be an assassin or spy or something, perhaps a private guard for the Royal family.Though perhaps that's because I've been reading/watching too much Black Butler this year.... I did not expect a magic ring to turn our heroine, Hermione, invisible and "pull" her to follow her love interest every night and discover that he actually works to protect London from literal demonic forces because he was destined to fulfill this lonely role, as his family's line had done for generations upon generations...... Well... that escalated quickly!
Once I adjusted to the unexpected magical ring and demons, I enjoyed the ride. But it's important to note that this is a Romance first and Fantasy/Paranormal second, and it definitely shows. There's far too much emphasis on sexy lovemaking than there is on world-building. Not that I mind, of course. Besides, if there's one thing this book cover does NOT deceive you on, it's the amount of steaminess between the pages. (I mean. Come on. The way those two are posing on the cover? Let alone, THE TITLE? It's a no-brainer.) So really, it's a matter of personal taste, or whether or not you think the book suffers from the fantasy sub-genre.
Personally.... I'm neutral. The story works pretty well without the magic (even though every single lovemaking scene is while Hermione's invisible once Lord Rockhurst figures out she's been "shadowing" him.... it happens!), because it is still, at its core, a classic Brooding Lonely Man finds love with the Woman Who Understands His Pain, and yet said Woman also suffers from feeling Incompetent and Plain in the face of Hotty McHotness Himself, but once he sees her, he's already in love with her and finds her beauty beneath all her awkwardness.... Throw in swords and demons and magic rings? Eh, no big deal, that works fine, too. You could also throw in cowboys, or pirates, or CEOs, or a standard Hallmark Christmas Plot and it'll work just the same. These books are not designed to be "original," they're designed to be "page-turners." And this book definitely was that!
I must admit, I'm growing more and more fond of these romances that I once mocked so readily. Only once or twice in the last near two years of reading these did I truly feel disappointed by the Male Love Interest and/or the Climax in which (usually) some bullshit misunderstanding happens, or something to that effect. Or, even worse, I felt genuinely BORED. But for the most part, these romances have thus far nailed what I expect to find between their pages. One thing I appreciate about "paperback romances" is the lack of pretending to be anything "deeper" than it's providing: these are slices of cheesecakes, or delicious chocolate truffles, meant to be consumed leisurely and can be a great source of comfort or pleasure. Sometimes, we don't need or want something "dark" or "deep" or "mind blowing" for our media. Sometimes, we just want fluff (or smut), and there's nothing wrong with that.
And thankfully, like its predecessors that I've read, Tempted by the Night doesn't pretend to be anything than what it is: a shameless paranormal romance in which the main couple have loud, passionate (and partially invisible) sex for several nights in a row and then, after defeating the Bad Guys, boom! We're getting married! Not really a problem, because, frankly, I've read fairytales all my life: I've read quicker romances. Honestly, the book's only major downside was losing track of time; I cannot tell if the bulk of the events took place in a week or a month! Also, poor Hermione's sleep schedule must have been adjusted by the magic of the ring, because lord only knows how exhausted she'd be!
All in all, this was a fun, shameless dive into a world of smuttiness in the backdrop of Regency England, with the addition of demons and magic destinies.
And not gonna lie.... I kinda loved it.
Okay, at first, the fantasy aspect did throw me for a loop. Judging by the story's synopsis, I was expecting the brooding, "bad boy" love interest, Lord Rockhurst, to be an assassin or spy or something, perhaps a private guard for the Royal family.
Once I adjusted to the unexpected magical ring and demons, I enjoyed the ride. But it's important to note that this is a Romance first and Fantasy/Paranormal second, and it definitely shows. There's far too much emphasis on sexy lovemaking than there is on world-building. Not that I mind, of course. Besides, if there's one thing this book cover does NOT deceive you on, it's the amount of steaminess between the pages. (I mean. Come on. The way those two are posing on the cover? Let alone, THE TITLE? It's a no-brainer.) So really, it's a matter of personal taste, or whether or not you think the book suffers from the fantasy sub-genre.
Personally.... I'm neutral. The story works pretty well without the magic (even though every single lovemaking scene is while Hermione's invisible once Lord Rockhurst figures out she's been "shadowing" him.... it happens!), because it is still, at its core, a classic Brooding Lonely Man finds love with the Woman Who Understands His Pain, and yet said Woman also suffers from feeling Incompetent and Plain in the face of Hotty McHotness Himself, but once he sees her, he's already in love with her and finds her beauty beneath all her awkwardness.... Throw in swords and demons and magic rings? Eh, no big deal, that works fine, too. You could also throw in cowboys, or pirates, or CEOs, or a standard Hallmark Christmas Plot and it'll work just the same. These books are not designed to be "original," they're designed to be "page-turners." And this book definitely was that!
I must admit, I'm growing more and more fond of these romances that I once mocked so readily. Only once or twice in the last near two years of reading these did I truly feel disappointed by the Male Love Interest and/or the Climax in which (usually) some bullshit misunderstanding happens, or something to that effect. Or, even worse, I felt genuinely BORED. But for the most part, these romances have thus far nailed what I expect to find between their pages. One thing I appreciate about "paperback romances" is the lack of pretending to be anything "deeper" than it's providing: these are slices of cheesecakes, or delicious chocolate truffles, meant to be consumed leisurely and can be a great source of comfort or pleasure. Sometimes, we don't need or want something "dark" or "deep" or "mind blowing" for our media. Sometimes, we just want fluff (or smut), and there's nothing wrong with that.
And thankfully, like its predecessors that I've read, Tempted by the Night doesn't pretend to be anything than what it is: a shameless paranormal romance in which the main couple have loud, passionate (and partially invisible) sex for several nights in a row and then, after defeating the Bad Guys, boom! We're getting married! Not really a problem, because, frankly, I've read fairytales all my life: I've read quicker romances. Honestly, the book's only major downside was losing track of time; I cannot tell if the bulk of the events took place in a week or a month! Also, poor Hermione's sleep schedule must have been adjusted by the magic of the ring, because lord only knows how exhausted she'd be!
All in all, this was a fun, shameless dive into a world of smuttiness in the backdrop of Regency England, with the addition of demons and magic destinies.
July 6, 2018
Again, like I said about book 1...I should give this 3 stars but I couldn't put it down and kept wanting to read it. There is something really mysterious about these books!
My thing with both novels in this series is that Boyle has a really decent story but she seems to create or overlook this huge flaw within her hero. That sort of creates this domino effect within the whole story that stops it from being nearly perfect. It's just like it has so many elements and wonderful writing to make it undeniably enjoyable then this wrench is thrown in the whole thing and you sorta sigh in disappointment.
Hermione. Well, she's not the brightest heroine to ever appear in a historical romance...she is a little bit of a diva and she had some ditzy moments. I think I liked her because there were moments where her actions just made me laugh. She was just really funny. She does show a lot of courage as the book progresses. By the end you really admire her fighting spirit. She is right by Rockhurst's side...and her actions are no longer selfish but with a pure heart and noble intent.
Rockhurst...oh Rockhurst. I adored him in book 1 and was very excited to see his story told here. But he was really different...similar to the problems I had with Sebastian in book 1. The guys just seem to have a Jekyll and Hyde thing going on. I liked him alright and I really did enjoy the backstory with his character. But here's the problems...
The thing is, there's something about these book...something about her writing that kept me coming back. I read the 2 books in two days. I am a sucker for historical stories with paranormal elements so maybe that's part of the problem. But these books were also funny....like laugh out loud funny. The chapter where she is talking with the bookseller and Rockhurst is spying on them was hilarious. I think the reason I like it so much is because it's such a nice escape to a different world and a different place. A part of me really wishes the series had continued...oh well.
My thing with both novels in this series is that Boyle has a really decent story but she seems to create or overlook this huge flaw within her hero. That sort of creates this domino effect within the whole story that stops it from being nearly perfect. It's just like it has so many elements and wonderful writing to make it undeniably enjoyable then this wrench is thrown in the whole thing and you sorta sigh in disappointment.
Hermione. Well, she's not the brightest heroine to ever appear in a historical romance...she is a little bit of a diva and she had some ditzy moments. I think I liked her because there were moments where her actions just made me laugh. She was just really funny. She does show a lot of courage as the book progresses. By the end you really admire her fighting spirit. She is right by Rockhurst's side...and her actions are no longer selfish but with a pure heart and noble intent.
Rockhurst...oh Rockhurst. I adored him in book 1 and was very excited to see his story told here. But he was really different...similar to the problems I had with Sebastian in book 1. The guys just seem to have a Jekyll and Hyde thing going on. I liked him alright and I really did enjoy the backstory with his character. But here's the problems...
The thing is, there's something about these book...something about her writing that kept me coming back. I read the 2 books in two days. I am a sucker for historical stories with paranormal elements so maybe that's part of the problem. But these books were also funny....like laugh out loud funny. The chapter where she is talking with the bookseller and Rockhurst is spying on them was hilarious. I think the reason I like it so much is because it's such a nice escape to a different world and a different place. A part of me really wishes the series had continued...oh well.
December 5, 2013
I was excited to read Rockhurst’s story because I liked him so much from the first book in this series. Frankly, I liked him better than the hero in that book. In that book, there was a smattering of supernatural mixed in with the historical romance. So, I went along with it. However, in this book, Boyle really jumps the shark. I was born in the 80s so my super ancient husband had to explain that saying to me. :-) But, according to my understanding of the phrase, it’s an appropriate saying to apply to this book.
Hermione finds the magical ring from the first book. Her wish is the first problem that has me rolling my eyes. It’s set up so badly. Boyle does a terrible job writing this section. It goes something like this, “Oh, remember that book we read? Oh, yeah. That book. The heroine wished she was invisible from dusk until dawn. Oh, right, I should wish for that, too.” Clunky writing, anyone? Then, once her wish is fulfilled, Hermione stumbles into the hidden side of London filled with portals, demons, and violence. Yeah. That’s right. Out of nowhere, Boyle changes the rules to her previously established world. Hermione stalks Rockhurst while invisible and Rockhurst is so stupid that he can’t possibly figure out who she is without seeing her. Sure, he’ll sleep with her while she’s invisible, but don’t expect him to have any clue about her identity. Ugh.
Hermione finds the magical ring from the first book. Her wish is the first problem that has me rolling my eyes. It’s set up so badly. Boyle does a terrible job writing this section. It goes something like this, “Oh, remember that book we read? Oh, yeah. That book. The heroine wished she was invisible from dusk until dawn. Oh, right, I should wish for that, too.” Clunky writing, anyone? Then, once her wish is fulfilled, Hermione stumbles into the hidden side of London filled with portals, demons, and violence. Yeah. That’s right. Out of nowhere, Boyle changes the rules to her previously established world. Hermione stalks Rockhurst while invisible and Rockhurst is so stupid that he can’t possibly figure out who she is without seeing her. Sure, he’ll sleep with her while she’s invisible, but don’t expect him to have any clue about her identity. Ugh.
August 25, 2019
I usually give a book 5 stars if I enjoyed it. And I did enjoy this book. There are two reasons that I gave this book 4 stars. The first being a consent issue about 75% through the book. This book was written in 2008, so I am willing to overlook that and there was a magical element involved. Which brings me to my second reason, this is a paranormal historical romance. And I actually loved that. But if you read the blurb, there is absolutely no indication there is any magic in this book. I find that to be really odd. Some reviewers complained about having issues following the story because they hadn’t read the first book but I didn’t have that issue. I knew enough to enjoy the story but I was aware I was missing some pieces.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
March 7, 2018
Unique, feel-good story
I loved reading this well-written, unique romance complete with wonderful characters and atmosphere. Not a boring moment in this book, with its supernatural twists, loyal wolfhounds, an invisible heroine and honorable hero. Thomas and Hermione make such wonderful partners. I really enjoyed this book!
I loved reading this well-written, unique romance complete with wonderful characters and atmosphere. Not a boring moment in this book, with its supernatural twists, loyal wolfhounds, an invisible heroine and honorable hero. Thomas and Hermione make such wonderful partners. I really enjoyed this book!
June 8, 2018
Full review here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
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