Books Like...

Midsummer Moon by Laura Kinsale is a Regency romance novel featuring the unlikely pairing of the brilliant inventor Merlin Lambourne and the Duke of Damerell, Ransom Falconer. The plot unfolds with Ransom seeking out Merlin for her inventions, leading to humorous situations and eventual romance. The story is filled with quirky characters, including a pet hedgehog, and revolves around themes of independence, love, and conflicting desires.

"The Long Return" by Rose Pearson is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Arabella and Jacob, childhood friends who realize their love for each other but face misunderstandings and separations. The plot involves a heartfelt tale of unrequited love, societal expectations, manipulative family members, and the challenges of war. The writing style of the author Rose Pearson is described as emotional, engaging, and filled with drama and romance that keeps readers entertained from beginning to end.

'At Your Pleasure' by Meredith Duran is a historical romance novel set in Jacobite England. The story follows the complicated relationship between the hero, Adrian Ferrers, and the heroine, Leonora Colville. The novel explores themes of family conflict, star-crossed lovers, and gender imbalance in Georgian England. The writing style is described as beautiful and riveting, with intense emotions and powerful characters driving the narrative forward.

'When Angels Fall' by Meagan McKinney is a historical romance novel set in Victorian England. The story follows the lives of Elizabeth Lissa Alcester, a once wealthy woman now responsible for her blind sister and young brother, and Ivan Tramore, the bastard son of a marquis who becomes rich and powerful. Ivan seeks revenge on those who mistreated him, including Lissa, whom he still loves. The book explores themes of love, revenge, betrayal, and redemption, with a plot filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. The writing style is described as well-researched for the period, with detailed descriptions that bring the setting to life.

"Everything and the Moon" by Julia Quinn tells the story of a forbidden love between an earl, Robert, and the vicar's daughter, Victoria. The couple faces betrayal, misunderstandings, and heartache as they navigate through obstacles set by their fathers, determined to keep them apart. Despite a rocky road, Robert is portrayed as someone who believes in love and trust, while Victoria's character evolves from being young and naive to an independent woman who values her own security and independence.

The plot moves along nicely as the young couple, who fell in love at first sight, reunite seven years later to clear up misunderstandings and get to know each other as grown-ups. The story showcases themes of love, trust, second chances, and the journey towards finding a happily ever after amidst societal expectations and personal growth.

The Shadow and the Star by Laura Kinsale is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Samuel and Leda as they navigate a complex relationship filled with trials and tribulations. Samuel, a martial arts trained hero with a troubled past, and Leda, a proper English woman facing adversity, find themselves entangled in a passionate yet hesitant romance. The book delves into themes of love, duty, trauma, and self-discovery, all set against a backdrop of Victorian society. Laura Kinsale's writing style is described as deep, intense, and thought-provoking, with complex characters and a compelling storyline that keeps readers engaged throughout the book.

In 'Gentleman Jim' by Mimi Matthews, readers are taken on a journey of romance, mystery, and revenge set in the Regency era. The story follows the intertwined fates of Maggie and St. Clare, facing threats to their happiness from scheming individuals and rumors casting doubt on St. Clare's legitimacy. As the plot unfolds, readers are drawn into a tale of second chances, emotional depth, and the inseparable bond between the main characters.

'Black Silk' by Judith Ivory follows the story of Submit Channing Downes, a widow tasked with delivering a black box to the notorious Earl of Netham, Graham Wessit. Their unexpected friendship and romance blossom amidst scandal and societal expectations. The characters, Graham and Submit, are richly flawed and complex, defying stereotypes and conventions of the genre. The plot delves into themes of identity, reputation, and self-discovery, with characters grappling with moral dilemmas and societal constraints.

Judith Ivory's writing style in 'Black Silk' is dense and detailed, painting a vivid picture of Victorian society and its complexities. The author skillfully weaves a narrative filled with intriguing characters and metatextual convolutions, challenging genre conventions and unraveling fictions within fictions. The story explores the depths of human nature, portraying characters who evolve and grow amidst personal struggles and societal expectations.

"Again the Magic" by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Lady Aline Marsden and John McKenna, who grow up as childhood friends but are torn apart by societal differences. Aline's father forces her to send McKenna away, leading to misunderstandings and heartbreak. Twelve years later, McKenna returns as a successful businessman seeking revenge, only to realize his feelings for Aline have never truly faded. The book also intertwines the love story of Aline's sister, Livia, and Gideon, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The writing style blends romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for fans of historical romance.

'How to Catch a Wild Viscount' by Tessa Dare is a historical romance novella set just after the Napoleonic Wars. The story follows Cecily and Luke, childhood sweethearts who reunite at a country house party after Luke returns from war a changed man. Despite Luke's attempts to push Cecily away, the hunt for a mythical creature called the Werestag brings them closer together. The writing style is described as lighthearted, fun, and charming, with a touch of humor and a hint of steaminess.