Books Like...
The Iron Rose in the series Pirate Wolf by Marsha Canham is a swashbuckling tale set on the high seas in the 17th century Caribbean. The story follows Juliet Dante, the fiercely independent daughter of pirate parents, Simon and Beau Dante. Juliet, captain of her own ship, The Iron Rose, crosses paths with Varian St. Clare, an English Duke on a mission to persuade privateers to honor a peace treaty with Spain. The book is filled with detailed battle scenes, vivid descriptions of life aboard ship, and a unique romance between Juliet and Varian that defies traditional gender roles.
If you liked The Iron Rose, here are the top 20 books to read next:
(We also have 80 recommendations for the series: Pirate Wolf)
- #1
Any Duke in a Storm by Amalie Howard is an engaging historical romance set in the Caribbean during the 1870s. The story follows Lady Lisbeth Medford, an undercover spy posing as a pirate captain, and Raphael Saint, an exiled French nobleman on a quest for revenge against his uncle, a notorious smuggler. Their paths cross amid a thrilling backdrop of piracy, espionage, and emotional turmoil, leading to a passionate and forbidden romance as they work towards a common goal against a shared enemy.
Howard’s writing showcases a blend of intricate storytelling and palpable tension, focusing on the blossoming relationship between the two main characters. The narrative features slow-burn romance that evolves into intense passion. Despite some pacing issues halfway through, the book captures readers with well-developed characters, compelling dialogue, and refreshing diversity in a historical context, making it an enjoyable read for fans of the genre.
- #2
'Sea of Roses' by Opal Reyne is a pirate romance duology that follows the captivating journey of Rosetta, a strong and empowering woman captain, and her enthralling relationship with Alister. The book is filled with steamy scenes, complex characters, and a blend of historical pirate romance with intense emotions and humor. The story is packed with banter, tension, and spice, creating a delightful mix of adventure and romance that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
Opal Reyne's writing style in 'Sea of Roses' is praised for its ability to bring the characters to life with wit and complicated layers. The book is commended for its strong character development, honest portrayals of vulnerabilities, and deep introspection of the protagonists. The author skillfully navigates the enemies to lovers theme, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for fans of pirate romances.
- #3
Set in 1718, 'A Pirate's Pleasure' tells the story of Lady Skye Kinsdale, who is on her way home to Virginia to marry a man she has never met. However, her journey takes a dangerous turn when her ship is seized by pirates, leading her to be held captive by the enigmatic Silver Hawk. Skye, a strong and skilled swordswoman, finds herself torn between her attraction to the pirate and her duty to her intended husband. The book is described as an exciting and romantic adventure, set in 18th century America, Virginia, and the Caribbean, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
Skye Kinsdale reached the helm in time to hear the lookout’s panicked words. She came, teetering and floundering, just as a streak of lightning lit up the heavens, sizzling through the sky and the sea... - #4
In Lynsay Sands' 'Lady Pirate', the story follows Valoree Ainsley, a pirate captain who has been posing as a man for years. When her crew decides she must return to London to claim her family's estate and marry to inherit it, she is forced to navigate the world of high society against her wishes. The book is a mix of romance, adventure, and humor, with a strong and independent heroine at its core. The plot twists and turns keep the reader engaged, and the writing style is described as funny, fast-paced, and easy to follow.
"Aye, but the captain's in need of some real feminine-type colors to make her look less .. ." Another glare from Valoree made the man hesitate, then murmur diplomatically, "To make her look less capta... - #5
'Nobody Likes Fairytale Pirates' by Elizabeth Gannon follows the adventures of Uriah and Ransom, two characters introduced in a previous book, as they navigate a world where pirates are not what they seem. The plot is a mix of fun, depth, and darkness, with a focus on the unique and humorous relationship between the two protagonists. The writing style is engaging, with witty banter, touching moments, and surprising twists that keep the readers entertained and invested in the story.
For her part, The Deceitful Whore had played no real role in the chase or the taking of the ship, but good manners dictated that Uriah and his men should get something for their effort, even if they’d... - #6
Destiny's Captive by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance novel set in the late 1800s, focusing on the captivating story of Pilar, a pirate heroine who steals the ship of Noah Yates, a tall and brooding man with a dark past. The book weaves together themes of adventure, romance, and historical accuracy, immersing the reader in a world filled with steamy scenes, strong characters, and vivid descriptions of settings like Cuba, Florida, and California. Jenkins' writing style is praised for its attention to detail, rich historical context, and the way it transports readers to a time and place they may not be familiar with.
Pilar Banderas scanned the slew of vessels anchored in Havana’s crowded harbor. She needed to steal a ship. Disguised as an old woman and wearing a worn head wrap, a shapeless blouse, and dusty skirt,...
(Also, see 45 recommendations for the series Destiny ) - #7
'Through a Dark Mist' in the 'Robin Hood' series by Marsha Canham is a historical romance novel set in early 13th-century England during the reign of King John. The story follows the protagonist Lucien, who is betrayed by his brother and left for dead, leading him to adopt the identity of the Black Wolf. The plot involves themes of betrayal, romance, battles, and the quest for reclaiming lost title and lands. The writing style is described as rich in detail, with elements of adventure, gore, and historical accuracy intertwined with a touch of romance.
Her eyes were green and bright and perfectly round. Her body was squat and somewhat ungainly compared to her more streamlined relatives, but she had speed and cunning, a predator’s vision keen enough ... - #8
'Island Flame' by Karen Robards in the 'Pirates' series is a historical romance fiction that follows the story of Lady Catherine, who is captured by the pirate Captain Jonathan Hale. Despite being repeatedly raped and mistreated by the hero, Cathy seems to develop feelings for him, leading to a controversial portrayal of their relationship. Set in the 19th century, the book is criticized for its historical inaccuracies, modern dialogue, and unrealistic characters. The writing style is described as engaging but marred by excessive violence and graphic content.
Lady Catherine Aldley was beautiful, and she knew it. She was very much aware of the picture she made as she stood bracing herself against the rail on the deck of the Anna Greer, a light wind ruffling... - #9
In "His Wicked Kiss" by Gaelen Foley, readers are taken on an adventure to the jungles of Venezuela where Eden Farraday finds herself longing for a different life in London. When she meets the devilishly handsome sea merchant, Jack Knight, her dreams begin to take shape as they navigate society's pitfalls, family dynamics, and Spanish spies. Their passionate and intense relationship unfolds against the backdrop of a sensual romance, filled with twists and turns that keep the readers engaged until the very end.
The book not only explores the romantic relationship between Jack and Eden but also delves into themes of adventure, history, and the complexities of letting go of the past to redefine the future. With engaging characters, a captivating storyline, and a perfect blend of passion and action, "His Wicked Kiss" serves as a fitting conclusion to the Knight Miscellany series, leaving readers wanting more from Gaelen Foley's enchanting world.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Knight Miscellany ) - #10
"The Captain of All Pleasures" by Kresley Cole follows the story of Nicole Lassiter, an heiress determined to win the Great Circle Boat Race for her father against their arch business rival, Captain Derek Sutherland. As they compete in the race, their close competition leads to heated encounters and undeniable attraction. With secrets and twists, the romance unfolds on the high seas, showcasing action, drama, and a mix of classic moments refashioned into something new by the author. The plot, although formulamatic at times, features strong and independent characters like Nicole and a broken but lovable hero like Derek, whose relationship evolves amidst challenges and revelations.
The pacing of the story is uneven, with lulls before, during, and after the boat race, where little happens, but the book offers a mix of romance, secrets, and twists that keep readers engaged. Despite some flaws like rushed endings and missing tension during character separation, the book provides a glimpse into Cole's early work, blending classic romance elements with a modern and complicated twist. The author's writing style pulls readers into the story, setting the stage for a high seas adventure filled with passion, secrets, and the complexities of love.
Silence blanketed the den as the patrons inside took her measure, sensing she was out of place in the prostitute-laden tavern. She hadn’t dressed to attract notice. She wore boys’ pants and a shirt un...