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A classic, steamy historical romance with a unique Australian setting and plenty of angst - great for genre lovers, but some elements haven’t aged gracefully.

If you liked Dark Torment, here are the top 46 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 46 
  1. #1

    Nobody's Angel by Karen Robards
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    A quick, heartwarming historical romance with some memorable moments and witty humor - if you want a feel-good read (and don’t mind a few light tropes), you’ll devour it, even if it’s not Robards’ deepest work.

    "Nobody's Angel" by Karen Robards is an entertaining historical romance novel set in the Carolina Colony. The story follows Susannah Redmon, a plain and hardworking young woman admired by her community. When she decides to buy a bound servant named Ian, their worlds collide as they get to know and love each other. The book beautifully describes the blossoming romance between an overworked young woman and an arrogant, good-looking young man who never had to work in his life.

    The plot of the book revolves around the development of the relationship between Susannah and Ian, showcasing their strong wills and passionate connection. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters and a setting that brings the colonial era to life. Despite some minor flaws, such as rushed endings and lack of clarity in certain character backgrounds, the book delivers a heartwarming love story with elements of humor and charm.

    "Crabs! Live crabs!" A grizzled fisherman had made a booth out of a wooden crate, which presumably held the crabs in question. He had set it up at the edge of the green on which the auction was being...
    November 1992
    416 pages

  2. #2

    Lord of the Storm - Coalition Rebellion by Justine Davis
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    A classic sci-fi romance with high-stakes adventure and a steamy, angsty power imbalance. If you’re in the mood for drama-heavy, character-driven stories where love means hard-earned healing, give it a try!

    'Lords of the Storm' by Justine Davis is a science fiction romance novel that follows the story of Shaylah, a highly decorated fighter pilot who takes leave and encounters Wolf, a sex slave controlled by a collar that dictates his actions. Shaylah is determined to help him, even if it means risking her own life. The book is described as a fun space adventure with elements of excitement, drama, and romance. The plot unfolds with the characters facing various challenges and overcoming adversity, ultimately heading towards a happy ending.

    The book is praised for its engaging storyline that delves into themes of rescuing a tragically hurt hero, the dynamics between the captain and the slave, and the emotional journey of the characters. The writing style is commended for its depth, thought-provoking content, and ability to evoke empathy from the readers. Despite some criticisms about over-dramatized emotions and repetitive misunderstandings between the characters, the book is overall enjoyed for its imaginative world-building and the chemistry between the protagonists.

    The fact that she was exhausted colored Shaylah's reaction as she stepped out of the Sunbird. Her frown as she hit the wall of humid heat outside the ship's pressure lock was involuntary; she only kn...
    July 1994
    384 pages

  3. #3

    My Darling Caroline by Adele Ashworth
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    A delightful, character-driven historical romance featuring an unusually brilliant heroine and a swoon-worthy marriage-of-convenience. Great for romance fans who appreciate wit, warmth, and a touch of botanical brilliance.

    'My Darling Caroline' by Adele Ashworth is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Caroline, a brilliant aspiring botanist who is forced into an arranged marriage with Brent, a former soldier and spy for England. As the two protagonists navigate their marriage of convenience, they both grapple with deep-seated insecurities and past traumas, gradually discovering love and understanding. The book beautifully portrays their journey of self-discovery, overcoming misunderstandings, and building a genuine relationship amidst societal expectations and personal struggles.

    The writing style of 'My Darling Caroline' is praised for its detailed characterizations, slow-building relationship, and sensuality. The author, Adele Ashworth, skillfully weaves a tale of love and growth, incorporating elements of historical accuracy, emotional depth, and intimate love scenes. The plot unfolds with delightful twists and turns, keeping readers engaged with its unique premise and believable character development.

    Caroline Grayson gently reached in and, carefully avoiding thorns, snipped the stem from the rosebush, pulling the bud toward her with nimble fingers to have a closer look. She eyed it with the detach...
    October 1998
    372 pages

  4. #4

    Whispers of Heaven by Candice Proctor
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    A gorgeously written, deeply emotional look at forbidden love and self-discovery set against a richly painted Tasmanian backdrop - slow burn and high stakes, perfect for readers who want more than just typical romance tropes.

    'Whispers of Heaven' by Candice Proctor is a historical romance novel set in Tasmania in the 19th century. The story follows Jesmond Corbett, a young woman returning home from studying in England, who finds herself torn between her arranged engagement to a wealthy landowner and her growing feelings for Lucas Gallagher, an Irish convict laborer working on her estate. Their forbidden love faces numerous obstacles, including societal expectations and Lucas' past as a convict, creating a sense of doom and hopelessness in their relationship. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of the Tasmanian setting, authentic characters, and the emotional depth of the storyline.

    Anselm Corbett had built his home along stately lines, a full two stories tall, of carefully crafted sandstone blocks. Although the sun shone less fiercely in Tasmania than in other parts of Australia...
    July 2001
    429 pages

  5. #5

    Sweet Release - Blakewell/Kenleigh Family by Pamela Clare
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    A dramatic, steamy historical romance with substance and adventure - ideal for fans of passionate love stories set against compelling backdrops, but it won’t be everyone’s cup of (colonial) tea.

    In 1730, Alec Kenleigh, a wealthy shipbuilder, is abducted, beaten, and sent to the American colonies as an indentured servant under the false identity of Cole Braden. Meanwhile, Cassie Blackwell, a strong-willed woman managing her family's Virginia plantation, purchases Cole out of compassion. As Cole proves himself to be honorable and well-educated, Cassie starts to question his reported crimes and helps him in his quest to prove his true identity and gain freedom. The story delves into themes of slavery, societal differences, and romance in the 18th century, with a mix of suspense, drama, and historical detail.

    Cassie Blakewell watched the sluggish craft struggle upriver against the current, her stomach knotted. Of all the things she had to do to keep the plantation running, from caring for the sick to squis...
    2003
    381 pages

  6. #6

    September Moon by Candice Proctor
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    A quintessential historical romance that shines in its setting - ideal if you love vivid landscapes, family drama, and a gentle, uplifting love story, but might not thrill those wanting a more original or high-octane romance.

    'September Moon' by Candice Proctor is a historical romance set in 19th century Australia. The story follows Amanda, a proper English governess who finds herself stranded in Adelaide and takes a position as a governess to the three wild children of Patrick O'Reilly, a single father living in the rugged Outback. As Amanda navigates her conflicting emotions towards O'Reilly and the harsh Australian landscape, the story delves into themes of love, forgiveness, and self-discovery. The vivid descriptions of the Outback and the complex relationships between the characters create a compelling narrative that explores the challenges of cultural differences and personal growth.

    The author, Candice Proctor, weaves a tale of romance and adventure against the backdrop of the untamed Australian wilderness. Through the interactions between Amanda and O'Reilly, Proctor explores themes of attraction, family dynamics, and the struggle between love and duty. The plot unfolds with a mix of emotional depth and descriptive prose, painting a vivid picture of life in the Outback during the 19th century while capturing the complexities of human relationships and the beauty of the Australian landscape.

    1999
    386 pages

  7. #7

    Night in Eden by Candice Proctor
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    A powerful, atmospheric historical romance that balances gritty realism with a moving love story - perfect for readers who crave depth, intensity, and a fresh setting.

    Night in Eden by Candice Proctor follows the story of Bryony Wentworth, a young widowed convict woman transported to Australia in the early 19th century. Assigned to care for Captain Hayden St. John's newborn son, Bryony and Hayden navigate a slow burn romance amidst the harsh realities of life in the Australian frontier. The book delves into the struggles of women prisoners, the treatment of convicts, and the challenges faced by Bryony and Hayden as they develop a deep connection in a land far from home.

    Proctor's writing style vividly portrays the historical setting of early Australia, capturing the essence of the Regency period and the struggles faced by the characters. The plot unfolds with a mix of suspense, passion, and intense emotions, drawing readers into a story of love, resilience, and survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

    The howling spring storm was quickly churning the unpaved prison yard into a treacherous expanse of slick yellow mud. Rain pounded on the shingled roof behind him and slapped into the waterlogged grou...
    September 1997
    345 pages

  8. #8

    Seduced By His Touch - The Byrons of Braebourne by Tracy Anne Warren
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    A passionate, angsty historical romance that delivers classic tropes with heartfelt moments - great for fans, but a tad slow for those who crave constant plot twists.

    'Seduced By His Touch' by Tracy Anne Warren follows the story of Jack, an aristocratic man manipulated into marrying Grace, a commoner and naturalist painter, by her wealthy father. Jack is in considerable debt and agrees to the arrangement where if he can win Grace's love and marry her, his debt will be forgiven. The plot involves the initial deception, Jack's successful courtship of Grace, and the eventual unraveling of the truth leading to conflict and insecurities in their relationship. The writing style is described as well developed with a good flow, although some readers found the plot to be fairly predictable and contrived.

    Lord John Byron—or “Jack” as he was known to his family and friends—fought the urge to give a good, hard tug to his starched, white cravat. Ever since he’d walked into St. George’s Church this morning...
    August 2009
    384 pages

  9. #9

    The Trouble with True Love - Dear Lady Truelove by Laura Lee Guhrke
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    This is a warm, witty, and uplifting romance where opposites attract and grow. A perfect comfort read for fans of classic historical romance - just don’t be surprised if you end up reading late into the night!

    'The Trouble with True Love' in the series 'Dear Lady Truelove' by Laura Lee Guhrke follows the story of Clara Deverill and Rex Galbraith as they navigate their growing relationship while running a newspaper together. Clara starts off shy and lacking confidence, but with Rex's help, she gains strength and blossoms into her true self. Meanwhile, Rex, a cynic about love and marriage, finds himself drawn to Clara's intelligence and determination. is filled with witty banter, romantic moments, and a slow-building passion that keeps the readers engaged. The plot revolves around the challenges faced by Clara and Rex as they try to resist falling in love while working together.

    The writing style of Laura Lee Guhrke is praised for its ability to create likable and believable characters like Clara and Rex, who evolve and grow throughout the story. delves into themes of personal growth, friendship, and the complexities of relationships, all while maintaining a sense of humor and romance. The narrative is engaging, with a focus on the developing romance between two characters from different backgrounds and beliefs, making it a compelling read for fans of historical romance.

    Nor was it her unremarkable looks, for she’d long ago accepted the fact that brown hair, a round face, and a freckle-dusted button nose were not characteristics that set the average man’s pulses racin...
    January 2018
    384 pages

    (Also, see 77 recommendations for the series Dear Lady Truelove )

  10. #10

    The Jacaranda Tree by Rebecca Brandewyne
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    Rebecca Brandewyne serves up a suspenseful tale of 19th-century Australia, where society is divided between the Exclusivists recreating London in the far continent and the Emancipists, former convicts struggling to better their lives. The story follows Arabella Darracott, a highborn English lady who finds herself shipwrecked on the Australian coast and nursed back to health by Lucien Sinclair, a wealthy former convict. As Arabella falls in love with Lucien, she uncovers dark secrets surrounding his past and a series of gruesome murders in Sydney reminiscent of Jack the Ripper.

    The Jacaranda Tree is a captivating historical romance set in the mid-1880s, rich in descriptions and filled with suspense. The plot intricately weaves together elements of love, societal prejudices, and mystery, keeping readers engaged as Arabella and Lucien navigate their forbidden romance amidst a backdrop of danger and intrigue.

    1995
    391 pages

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