Books matching: characters with troubled pasts
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- #1
When Daniel returns from exile after shooting and maiming Hugh in a duel, he meets Anne Wynter, the governess for his nieces. Anne too is fleeing her past when she was seduced and scarred a gentleman while protecting herself. As both protagonists are drawn to each other, danger also follows him, but each one isn't sure whose past is coming back on them or if both will survive the revenge. A Night Like This explores their growing relationship as circumstances, and madmen, try to keep them apart. The book delves into the forbidden, cross-class romance between Daniel and Anne, filled with excitement, entertainment, and suspense, as they navigate their feelings amidst danger lurking around them.
That she would be sharing the stage with three other young women was some consolation. The other musicians—members of the infamous Smythe-Smith quartet—all played stringed instruments and would have t...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Smythe-Smith Quartet ) - #2
"The Man Upstairs" by Jade West is a steamy romance novel that explores the unconventional relationship between Rosie and Julian, who have a 30-year age gap. The story delves into their deep connection, the struggles they face due to societal judgments, and the personal growth they experience through their love. The writing style is described as raw, explicit, and emotionally intense, with intricate character development and a mix of sweet moments and spicy encounters that keep readers engaged.
- #3
A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight is a legal thriller that delves into the complexities of marriages, secrets, and compromises. The book follows Lizzie, a corporate attorney who is drawn into defending her old friend Zach, who is accused of murdering his wife Amanda. Through alternating narratives, the story unfolds revealing layers of deception, questionable motives, and dysfunctional marriages within a posh community in Park Slope. As Lizzie navigates through twists, suspense, and revelations, the reader is taken on a journey of uncovering the truth behind the facade of seemingly perfect marriages.
The sun was sinking lower in the skyscraper forest outside my office window. I imagined myself sitting there at my desk, letting the darkness fully descend. Wondering if tonight it might finally swall... - #4
'Ruthless Salvation' in the series 'The Byrne Brothers' by Jill Ramsower is a dark mafia romance that follows the story of Torin and Stormy, two individuals with troubled pasts and heavy baggage. Torin, a fighter battling demons from his past, finds himself drawn to Stormy, a woman with her own share of demons and a tendency to run when danger arises. The book delves into their complex relationship, filled with push and pull dynamics, possessiveness, and a magnetic chemistry that they both try to resist due to their past experiences. The story weaves between past and present, uncovering the heartbreak and pain both characters have endured, ultimately leading them to trust and honesty as they navigate through their struggles together.
The author, Jill Ramsower, skillfully intertwines past memories and present challenges to create a thrilling and engaging story that keeps readers hooked from cover to cover. The mix of past and present timelines doesn't distract from the overall narrative but rather enhances the depth of the characters and the storyline, making it a compelling read filled with twists, challenges, and surprises that keep readers guessing and on their toes.
(Also, see 63 recommendations for the series The Byrne Brothers ) - #5
'Bedfellow' by Jeremy C. Shipp is a psychologically unnerving story that delves into a home invasion that quickly escalates into a bizarre case of misunderstood identity. The narrative unfolds through different family members' perspectives, showcasing the manipulation and infiltration of their minds by a mysterious stranger. The writing style is described as complex yet accessible, blending humor and grotesqueness to keep readers simultaneously uneasy, amused, and captivated.
The plot of 'Bedfellow' keeps readers engaged as they navigate through a labyrinth of demonic influences, inception-style mind games, and unpredictable twists. The author's unconventional storytelling approach challenges readers to contemplate the blurred lines between reality and illusion, making them actively participate in connecting the dots and deciphering the true intentions of the characters. The book's slow-burning terror, psychological horror elements, and unique storytelling style draw comparisons to works like 'Twilight Zone' and 'Black Mirror,' offering a captivating and unsettling reading experience.
Hendrick prides himself on always responding well to an emergency, but he freezes in place when a man in a Space Jam nightshirt crawls through their living room window. The intruder carries a tattered... - #6
'Fixed on You' by Laurelin Paige follows the intense and steamy relationship between Hudson and Alayna. As they navigate their past traumas and trust issues, they find themselves entangled in a complex web of emotions and desires. The book delves into themes of love, trust, control, and redemption, with a writing style that brings out the characters' personalities vividly, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The alternating flashes of dark and soft lights, the throbbing pulse from an Ellie Goulding club mix, the movement of sweaty bodies dancing, grinding, enjoying each other—The Sky Launch Nightclub got ... - #7
In "Beguiled by a Baron," readers are introduced to Vail Basingstoke, Baron Chilton, a man with a dual persona - a ruthless businessman in the world of rare books and a caring individual burdened by the weight of the world. When he meets Lady Bridget Hamilton, a well-educated bibliophile with secrets and a captivating spirit, their connection is immediate and intense. Despite their past traumas and sacrifices, they must learn to trust each other to find true happiness. The story unfolds with emotional depth and heart, showcasing the struggles and growth of the characters as they navigate a complex web of family secrets and societal expectations.
The narrative of "Beguiled by a Baron" is filled with touching, tender, and heartbreaking moments that inspire and captivate readers. The relationship between Vail and Bridget is portrayed as explosive and real, with both characters finding solace and understanding in each other's flaws and pasts. As they confront their fears and trust issues, the story delves into themes of redemption, love, and the power of letting go of the past to embrace a hopeful future.
(Also, see 75 recommendations for the series The Heart of a Duke ) - #8
'Mating Theory' by Skye Warren follows the story of Sutton, a broken-hearted man who finds solace in Ashleigh, a young homeless woman he meets on the streets. Despite their unconventional circumstances and age gap, a deep connection forms between them as they navigate their past traumas and uncertainties. Set in the bleak and harsh town of Tanglewood, the author weaves a moving and poignant tale of love, redemption, and second chances. The writing style is lyrical, poetic, and emotionally stirring, delving into the fractured souls of the characters and their journey towards healing and acceptance.
Meetings must have run late in California. I probably took the red-eye back to Tanglewood. The plane was almost empty, only a few rumpled businessmen like me and a sleepy family with Disney stuffed an... - #9
Midnight Lily by Mia Sheridan is a haunting love story of two lost souls, Holden and Lily, who find and love each other against all odds. The plot unravels in a mesmerizing way, keeping readers on edge and invested in the characters' complex, multi-faceted personalities. The story is about healing, acceptance, and the unique worlds we create to protect our hearts, with a dreamlike quality that leaves readers captivated.
Holden, a star professional football player, loses everything and retreats to a remote cabin in Colorado to find peace. It is there that he encounters Lily, a mysterious beauty who may or may not be real. As their relationship develops amidst the horrors of their pasts, readers witness an innocence and purity in their connection that transcends darkness, making the story a profound and unforgettable experience.
The powerful whir of the helicopter propellers grew faint as they slowed and finally came to a stop. I opened my eyes blearily and stared out the window at the vast forest surrounding the grassy field... - #10
'Arouse' by Nina Lane is a mature romance novel that delves into the trials faced by a married couple, Olivia and Dean, as they navigate through discovering new aspects of each other. The story focuses on the complexities of relationships post the 'happily ever after' phase, portraying real problems that test the strength of their love. The book is filled with realistic emotions, intricate character development, and beautifully written flashbacks that highlight the deep connection between Olivia and Dean. The narrative explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the struggles of maintaining a strong bond amidst challenges.
Adhesive sandcastles, flip-flops, and smiling suns cover the windows of the shops lining Avalon Street. The bed-and-breakfasts are filled with guests, and boats dot Mirror Lake like stars in the sky. ...