Books Like...
If you liked A Dark and Stormy Knight, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A sweeping, emotional, and steamy Victorian romance with lots of drama, darkness, and heartache - perfect for fans of tortured heroes, but may be too heavy for those looking for a light, feel-good love story.
The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne is a gripping historical romance novel set in England, featuring the characters Farah Mackenzie and Dorian Blackwell. The story delves into the past of the protagonists, exploring their childhood connection in an orphanage and how it shapes their present lives. As Farah, a widow working at Scotland Yard, encounters the notorious criminal Dorian Blackwell, a complex relationship unfolds, filled with dark secrets, kidnapping, and a marriage of convenience. The writing style of the book is described as intense, touching on psychological themes of trauma, redemption, and the power of love to heal wounds.
Blood ran down Dougan Mackenzie’s forearms as he crouched against the ancient stone wall separating the grounds of Applecross Orphanage from the wild mountains beyond. None of the other children ventu...September 2015•383 pages - #2
A moody, emotional rollercoaster of a historical romance with a hero-to-die-for and a heroine who brings the light. Dark, broken, and beautifully written - only pick it up if you’re ready for feels and grit!
In 'The Hunter' by Kerrigan Byrne, the story follows Christopher Argent, a cold-hearted assassin who is hired to dispose of an actress named Millie LeCour. However, when he meets Millie and her son, Jakub, he finds himself unable to carry out the contract. This thrilling tale explores the complex emotions and relationships that develop between Argent, Millie, and her son, as well as the internal struggles of a man who has lived a life devoid of love and compassion. The book is set in Victorian England and delves into dark themes, intricate character development, and intense romantic tension.
Sir Gerald Dashforth, Esquire, perched uneasily behind the desk, and persisted in eyeing the closed door as though he anticipated the need to scream for help at any moment. The man matched the furnitu...February 2016•431 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Victorian Rebels ) - #3
Charming, quietly emotional, and full of heart, 'My One and Only Duke' is a warm, atmospheric start to a family-centered historical romance series - with just enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages. Not a breakneck thriller, but perfect for readers who love tender, slow-blooming love stories.
My One And Only Duke by Grace Burrowes is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Quinn Wentworth, a wealthy banker who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to hang. While awaiting his execution in Newgate prison, he meets Jane Winston, a pregnant widow who is also in desperate circumstances. Quinn offers Jane a marriage of convenience to secure her future before his impending death sentence is commuted, revealing him as the long-lost heir to a dukedom. As Quinn and Jane navigate their unexpected marriage and newfound nobility, they must also uncover the truth behind the conspiracy that framed Quinn.
Joy was the first casualty in Newgate prison. When Ned skipped into Quinn Wentworth’s cell, the boy’s rare, angelic smile thus had a greater impact than his words. An uncomfortable emotion stirred, so...November 2018•472 pages - #4
A dramatic, beautifully written start to a series, packed with emotion, mystery, steamy romance, and unforgettable characters - though the dark themes and explicit content won’t be for everyone.
Lady Alexandra Lane's life is irrevocably changed when she is called into Headmaster Maurice de Marchand's office mere days before she was due to graduate from L'Ecole de Chardonne School in Switzerland. De Marchand has found the items Alexandra and her friends Francesca Cavendish, the Countess of Mont Claire and Cecelia Teague pilfered over the years for their Red Rogues Society. When de Marchand's punishment turns brutal and he rapes Alexandra, she does what she must to stop the attack and flees. With the help of her friends and a trusted servant Jean Yves, they bury the body and clean up the scene. That awful night the girls who have been friends for years, share their deepest, darkest secrets and vow to never marry and to protect each other forever. Piers Atherton, Duke of Redmayne, also known as the Terror of Torcliff, is about to enter into a marriage on convenience with one of Alexandra's friends but is tempted by the bridesmaid, not the bride.
The first, she had been unable to stop fretting for Francesca, who tended to give more than the appropriate amount of context. The terse, vague note Alexandra now held was more of a warning than the m...August 2019•448 pages - #5
A twisty, character-driven detective story with a deeply unconventional romance - compelling for those who like their mysteries messy, emotional, and a bit off-kilter, but not for everyone.
'Murder In Thrall' in the series 'New Scotland Yard/Doyle and Acton' by author Anne Cleeland follows the story of Detective Constable Kathleen Doyle and her superior officer, Detective Chief Inspector Lord Acton, as they work together to solve murder cases at Scotland Yard. The plot intertwines mystery and romance, focusing on the evolving relationship between the two main characters. The writing style incorporates first-person perspectives, banter between characters, and a mix of character development, action, and dialogue to engage readers in a suspenseful and intriguing narrative.
HER EYES WERE FIVE CENTIMETERS APART. HER FACE WAS PROPORTIONED perfectly; the wide-set eyes, the spacing between the zygoma and the mouth, the ratio of chin to forehead to temples. He had taken a pho...June 2013•344 pages - #6
A dark, passionate, and high-stakes historical romance perfect for lovers of tortured heroes and epic, against-all-odds love stories. Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable for those who like their romance with grit and grand emotion.
The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo by Kerrigan Byrne is a historical pirate romance focusing on second chance love. The story follows Lorelai and Ash, two main characters with abusive pasts who embark on a journey to find themselves and each other. The plot delves into violence, realities of the time, and the struggle to earn a happy ending. The writing style is described as gritty, emotional, and packed with action, adventure, and unexpected twists.
He lay facedown, strong arms reached over his head as though he’d been trying to swim through the shallow grass lining the road. Ghastly dark bruises covered what little flesh was visible beneath the...August 2018•372 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Victorian Rebels ) - #7
A deliciously unconventional historical romance packed with spice, wit, and a refreshing heroine - great for fans of bold, character-focused stories, but the soap-opera drama and heat level won’t be for everyone.
Suddenly You by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel set in Victorian England, featuring Amanda Briars, a strong and independent novelist who decides to hire a male prostitute to lose her virginity on her thirtieth birthday. However, her plans go awry when Jack Devlin, a successful publisher, shows up instead. The story follows their unexpected attraction, whirlwind affair, and the challenges they face due to societal expectations and misunderstandings. The book explores themes of independence, female empowerment, and the complexities of relationships in a time when women's roles were strictly defined.
Amanda knew exactly why the man on her doorstep was a prostitute. From the moment she had ushered him inside in the manner of someone harboring an escaped convict, he had stared at her in dumbfounded...2001•384 pages - #8
A cute and witty Regency romance with great moments and a lovable heroine, but a divisive, sometimes unlikeable hero and old-school drama may leave you frustrated - or thoroughly entertained, depending on your taste.
'The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever' by Julia Quinn is a regency romance novel that follows the story of Miranda Cheever, who falls in love with her best friend's older brother, Nigel Bevelstoke, Viscount Turner, at a young age. Despite their age gap and Turner's initial rejection, they are thrown together later in life and forced into marriage. The book explores Miranda's unrequited love, Turner's emotional baggage from his past marriage, and their journey towards finding love and happiness. The writing style is described as lively, engaging, and witty, with a mix of humor and emotional depth that draws readers into the characters' world.
But nothing—not one second of his prominent and privileged life—had prepared him for this moment. And never had he felt the weight of watchful eyes so much as now, as he stepped forward and tossed a c...June 2007•370 pages - #9
A beautifully unconventional love story with deep character growth and a tender romance between two memorable, imperfect leads. Highly recommended for fans of heartfelt, redemptive historical romance!
'Flaming June' in the series 'Rogues & Gentlemen' by Emma V. Leech revolves around the story of a ruined young lady, Isabella, who is expecting a baby, and a misunderstood and isolated lord named Henry. The plot follows their unexpected meeting and delves into their evolving relationship, exploring themes of redemption, growth, and understanding. The author, Emma V. Leech, skillfully weaves a tale filled with action, intrigue, friendship, and romance, creating a fast-paced and engaging narrative that captivates readers.
Despite initial reservations about the characters, especially the unlikeable nature of Isabella at the beginning and the complexity of Henry's character, readers are pleasantly surprised by the character development and the depth of their relationship. The sensitive portrayal of Henry's high functioning autism and Isabella's growth throughout the story are particularly commendable, adding layers of nuance to the narrative. is praised for its unique characters, intriguing plot, and well-written prose, making it an enjoyable and thought-provoking read for fans of historical romance.
“Not that one, you stupid girl.” Isabella snatched the brooch from her abigail and threw it across the room. It landed will a dull thud on the luxurious, thick pile of the carpet in her bedroom. “I sa...July 2018•274 pages - #10
Sweet, emotionally rich, and refreshingly unique for a Regency romance - even if some messy details trip it up along the way. Worth a read if you cherish character-driven stories and don’t mind a few rough edges!
When Hugh Winthrop, the future Earl of Albury, advertises for a wife, he receives delightful letters from Lady Phoebe Maitland, also known as The Curious Lady. Phoebe, who expected to marry for love, takes matters into her own hands after being betrayed by a cowardly man and hearing her mother's plans to send her away. Phoebe offers marriage to Hugh, showcasing her honesty and determination. The story unfolds with a witty back-and-forth correspondence, a brave and smart heroine, and a charming but mute hero who must protect his heart from betrayal.
A man advertising in a newssheet for a wife was decidedly unexpected, shocking, and alarming under any circumstances, yet to Lady Phoebe’s mind, this one had a bit of peculiar humor added to its sheer...











