Books Like...
If you liked Devil's Embrace, here are the top 54 books to read next:
- #1
A classic, sweeping historical romance packed with drama and rich historical detail. Despite some editing hiccups and old-school vibes, it remains a favorite for those who love epic stories and immersive worlds.
'The Kadin' follows the captivating story of Lady Janet Leslie, a Scottish noblewoman abducted and sold into slavery in the Ottoman Empire. Renamed Cyra, she navigates the complexities of the Sultan's harem, forming alliances, facing treachery, and ultimately rising to a position of wisdom and leadership. The novel intricately weaves together elements of history, romance, and intrigue, spanning over fifty years and multiple generations, offering a vivid portrayal of life within the harem and the challenges faced by its inhabitants.
Small's storytelling skill shines through in her detailed descriptions of harem life, the eastern culture, and the strong-willed protagonist Cyra. delves into themes of power, loyalty, and love, as Cyra forges her own destiny amidst a backdrop of historical events and societal expectations. Despite some bittersweet moments and an ending that may not cater to all romance readers' preferences, 'The Kadin' remains a well-loved classic that immerses readers in a world of hidden histories and untold stories.
WIPING HIS HANDS on his shirt, James IV, king of Scotland and the Mes, leaned back in his chair and surveyed the scene before him. On his left sat Patrick Leslie, lord of Glenkirk, who at the moment w...February 1978•462 pages - #2
A spicy, swoony, and sometimes scandalous romance that’s a hallmark of its era - perfect for fans of vintage steamy historicals and Bertrice Small’s unapologetically dramatic style!
The Love Slave by Bertrice Small is a historical romance novel set in exotic locations, involving elements of passion, sensuality, and intricate relationships. The plot follows a young English girl who is kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery, where she falls in love with her teacher. The story delves into themes of love, desire, and complex character dynamics, all against the backdrop of historical events. The writing style is described as old-school and dirty, with a focus on romance and sensuality that captivates the reader's imagination.
The little hall at Ben MacDui was blue with smoke, for the chimney drew poorly. Sorcha MacDuff, seated at the high board, gazed down upon her numerous offspring tumbling about the room. Six little bas...February 1995•445 pages - #3
A quintessential guilty pleasure - dramatic, exotic, and over the top. Perfect for lovers of vintage historical romance, but not for everyone.
Silver Angel by Johanna Lindsey is a historical romance novel set in the exotic eastern desert. The story follows Chantelle, a young English heiress who is kidnapped and sold into slavery, entering the harem of the Dey of Barikah. The plot unfolds with intrigue, mystery, and political schemes, as Chantelle navigates her new reality and forms a complex relationship with Derek Sinclair, an adventurous Englishman who gets involved in a plot to assassinate the Dey. Lindsey's writing style weaves together elements of romance, suspense, and cultural exploration, creating a captivating tale of love and survival in a foreign land.
On the Street of the Jewelers, the pearl merchant, Abdul ibn-Mesih, closed his shop in anticipation of the singsong chant of the muezzin calling the faithful to prayer. Abdul had at least ten minutes...1988•438 pages - #4
A notorious, high-drama medieval romance with all the angst and controversy you'd expect from a true bodice ripper - compelling for some, way too much for others. Read if you like your historical romance wild and intense!
In "The Conqueror" by Brenda Joyce, the story unfolds in medieval England where Rolfe the Relentless, a Norman knight, claims Castle Aelfgar and marries Lady Alice, though his heart desires her illegitimate sister, Ceidre. The plot is filled with intrigue, betrayal, and complex relationships, as Ceidre, a strong and loyal Saxon woman, navigates the challenges of Norman rule and her forbidden attraction to Rolfe. The writing style is described as intense, historically accurate, and captivating, with a mix of brutality and romance that keeps readers engaged till the very end.
Rolfe of Warenne watched expressionlessly as his vassal Guy Le Chante wheeled his destrier around, calling to his knights. He sat motionless on his massive gray stallion in the middle of the road. He...1990•433 pages - #5
A wickedly dark, decadent read perfect for those who love their romance with edge, heat, and unapologetically flawed characters - but definitely check the trigger warnings first!
'Brutal Serpent' by Kate Raven is a dark regency romance that delves into the story of St. Erth seeking revenge on the Wendover family by claiming and ruining their daughter, Catherine. The plot unfolds as what starts as a brutal coupling between St. Erth and Catherine evolves into a deeper and darker relationship filled with possessiveness and obsession. The author skillfully portrays the development of the characters, especially St. Erth, from being cruel to ultimately understanding the true meaning of love. The writing style is described as steamy, action-packed, and historically inaccurate, with a focus on dark romance and possessive male characters.
And my mother, who had very little interest in me beyond my hair and clothes, waited in my room until my maid Mary had put on the dress and done my hair! The dress was beautifully cut, with a high lac...May 2024•163 pages - #6
A fast-paced, adventurous medieval romance for those who like their heroines bold, but be ready for tough themes and old-school attitudes that won’t suit everyone.
"Warrior's Song" by Catherine Coulter is set in 1272 in England and the Middle East, following the story of Chandra, a woman raised by her father to be a warrior. The plot revolves around Chandra's struggles with her arranged marriage to Jerval de Vernon, her desire to break free from traditional female roles, and her journey to find love and acceptance amidst various challenges. The writing style is described as fast-paced, filled with historical adventures that take the reader from the Welsh marches to Cumbria and the Mediterranean, offering a blend of action, romance, and character development.
He was astride a black destrier, at least thirty men behind him, fanned out across the horizon. His armor shone bright silver under the sun. His surcoat was black velvet, and even from their distance,...1983•413 pages - #7
A lush, dramatic medieval romance with well-researched historical flair and lots of emotional intensity - perfect for fans of the genre who don’t mind old-school, problematic alpha hero plots.
'Lie Down In Roses' by Shannon Drake (Heather Graham) is a medieval romance novel that follows the story of Lady Genevieve and Lord Tristan during a turbulent time in England, set against the backdrop of the War of the Roses. The plot revolves around Lady Genevieve's family seat, Edenby Castle, being taken over by Lord Tristan, leading to a complex relationship between the two characters. The writing style of the book is rich in historical detail, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps the readers engaged throughout.
“God’s blood!” Edgar swore, hurtling the message from his hands into the fire, then turning his wrath on the herald who had brought it. “You wish me to feed and succor a regiment of an army advancing...1988•507 pages - #8
This is a memorable, beautifully written, super-angsty historical romance that's not for the faint of heart. If you're up for a deeply emotional, sometimes frustrating journey with a powerful heroine and a very flawed hero, Lily will stick with you long after you turn the last page.
Lily by Patricia Gaffney is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Lily Trehearne, a young woman who finds herself in a difficult situation after the death of her father. She flees her home and ends up working as a scullery maid in the household of Viscount Sandown, Devon Darkwell. As Lily and Devon's paths cross, a complex and tumultuous relationship unfolds between them, filled with heartache, betrayal, and deep love. The book delves into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring strength of true love, even in the face of adversity.
The narrative of 'Lily' is described as emotionally intense, with a dark and angsty tone that draws readers in and keeps them engaged. The story explores the complexities of the characters' emotions and relationships, painting a vivid picture of a love story that is both heart-wrenching and ultimately uplifting.
Lily whipped her hand away from the red-hot handle of the roasting spit and flapped her fingers in the smoky air. “Ow, ow, ow,” she yelped—softly, so her guests couldn’t hear. Gripping her wrist, she...October 1991•464 pages - #9
Hot mess or guilty pleasure? "The Deal (Slave for Revenge)" is a wild, polarizing ride best suited for readers who crave dark, boundary-pushing romance and don't mind rough edges.
'The Deal' by Ann Owen, part of the 'Slave for Revenge' series, follows a dark and intense storyline involving stepbrother and stepsister characters. The plot revolves around a manipulative Earl orchestrating the downfall of his stepfather's business to coerce his stepsister into becoming his sex slave. The relationship between the characters is complex, drawing attention from friends and family while stirring up unresolved tension from their past. The writing style is described as masterful and steamy, with explicit scenes and themes of historical non-con BDSM, infidelity, and revenge.
Guy Spencer, fourth Earl of Ashbourne, didn’t get immediately out of the carriage. With one foot on the footplate, he looked at the house in front of him. Number seven of Courtnell Street. The three f...November 2015•112 pages - #10
A classic, bonkers, and wildly dramatic epic: perfect for fans of intense historical romances who don’t mind plenty of heat and a heroine with agency - but tread carefully if you need modern sensibilities or gentler content.
Skye O'Malley by Bertrice Small is an epic novel following the life of the titular character as she navigates through multiple marriages, adventures, and sexual encounters. The story begins with Skye being forced into marriage, leading to a series of dramatic events that shape her character and relationships. The book is known for its detailed descriptions of Skye's experiences, ranging from being kidnapped into harems to reuniting with her original love interest amidst producing numerous children.
IT WAS A PERFECT EARLY SUMMER DAY IN THE YEAR 1555. INNISFANA Island, its great green cliffs tumbling into the deep and sparkling blue sea, shone clear at the mouth of O’Malley Bay. English weather, t...1980•488 pages











