Books Like...
'The Moon in the Water' by Pamela Belle is the first book in the 'Heron Quartet' series, set in England around 1642 during the Civil War. The story revolves around the Heron family, particularly focusing on Thomazine and Francis. As the tensions between King Charles and Parliament escalate, the family faces challenges and tragedies, with Thomazine navigating complicated relationships and societal norms of the time. The book delves into historical details, political intricacies, and the impact of war on the characters' lives, creating a rich and immersive narrative that captivates readers.
If you liked The Moon in the Water, here are the top 7 books to read next:
- #1
Wintercombe by Pamela Belle is a historical fiction novel set during the English Civil War. The story follows Silence, a Puritan woman whose life is turned upside down when her home, Wintercombe, is taken over by Royalist forces. Amidst the chaos, Silence navigates relationships with her unloving husband, scheming mother-in-law, and a growing bond with a Royalist Captain named Nick. The novel intricately weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and survival during a turbulent period in English history.
- #2
A lush, intricately plotted historical epic where war, politics, and unforgettable characters collide - ideal for patient readers who love their history meticulously detailed and their romances woven through real-life drama.
Set in the turbulent years of the English Civil Wars, 'The Black Madonna' by Stella Riley follows the intertwined lives of the Maxwells and the enigmatic jeweler Luciano del Santi. Against the backdrop of tragic conflicts and divided loyalties, the story unfolds with meticulous historical detail and a compelling blend of history, politics, suspense, intrigue, revenge, and romance. As the characters navigate the complexities of family dynamics, political turmoil, and personal quests for justice, the narrative weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and the inevitability of historical events.
May 2013•627 pages - #3
The Silver Devil is an addictive, beautifully written, and shockingly dark historical romance that’s not for the faint of heart - if you’re ready for the ultimate bad-boy hero and an immersive dive into Renaissance intrigue, snag it if you can find it!
The Silver Devil by Teresa Denys is a historical romance novel set in medieval times, revolving around the tumultuous relationship between Felicia, a helpless young woman, and Domenico, a cruel and unpredictable duke. The story explores themes of dominance, submission, and forbidden love, with a dark and intense writing style that keeps readers glued to the pages.
It had been as hot as this the summer it began. All Fidena stank. The fetid smell from the bay, where ships lay beached and their cargoes rotted for want of men to unload them, mingled with human swea...1978•384 pages - #4
An epic, scandalous romp through Restoration England - full of drama, detail, and a heroine you’ll love to hate. Deliciously entertaining for fans of historical soap operas, but not for those seeking a wholesome or quick read.
'Forever Amber' by Kathleen Winsor is a historical romance novel set in Restoration England. The story follows the life of Amber St. Claire, a young and ambitious girl who rises from humble beginnings to become a mistress of King Charles II. The plot is filled with drama, passion, and scandalous events, including encounters with the plague, the great fire, and various escapades that shape Amber's character. The writing style is described as compelling and engaging, with a mix of historical accuracy and melodramatic elements that keep the reader hooked till the end.
The church of St. Catherine stood at the northern end of the road, like a benevolent godfather, and from it the houses ran down either side—half-timbered cottages, with overhanging upper stories, and...January 1944 - #5
A steamy, action-packed Highlander romance packed with real history and brooding hero vibes - flawed leads but irresistible for lovers of Scottish intrigue and slow-burn passion.
'The Chief' in the 'Highland Guard' series by Monica McCarty follows the story of an arranged marriage where the connection between the couple sparks in the bedroom before they truly get to know each other. The book is set in medieval Scotland and focuses on the romance between the characters, portraying their struggles and growth throughout the storyline. The writing style of the book is engaging, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps the readers immersed in the Scottish setting of the story.
A sharp hush fell over the hall, like the expectant quiet following a loud crack of thunder, as the clerk finished reading the missive. The score of warriors gathered around the great hall of Dunvegan...2010•430 pages - #6
A Kingdom of Dreams is a dramatic, passionate, and addictive medieval romance classic - packed with angst, adventure, and swoony moments, but also some hard-to-skip problematic elements. Perfect if you love your romance with big emotions and classic old-school flair.
'A Kingdom of Dreams' by Judith McNaught is a medieval romance novel that follows the story of Jennifer Merrick, a Scottish countess kidnapped by Royce Westmoreland, known as the Wolf, an English warrior with a reputation for cruelty. Despite being enemies, Jennifer and Royce engage in a battle of wills that evolves into a passionate love story filled with misunderstandings, loyalty, and strong characters facing hard choices. The plot is full of twists and turns, emotional depth, and a blend of suspense, tragedy, and romance that keeps the readers engaged throughout the story.
The writing style in 'A Kingdom of Dreams' is described as strong, captivating, and well-paced, with well-developed characters like Royce and Jennifer who face challenges, miscommunications, and external forces that complicate their relationship. The book is praised for its blend of humor, tenderness, heartbreak, and excitement, providing a well-rounded and entertaining story that keeps the readers invested in the characters' journey towards their happy ending.
Under normal circumstances, this call for a wedding toast would have caused the lavishly dressed ladies and gentlemen assembled in the great hall at Merrick castle to smile and cheer. Goblets of wine...1989•467 pages - #7
A layered, character-driven medieval romance with a slow-build, enemies-to-lovers vibe, fascinating leads, and rich emotional payoff - especially recommended for readers who like nuance and complex heroines over conventional fairy tales.
In "The King's Man," Ranulf, the infamous King's assassin haunted by his past, flees to the Welsh wilderness where he meets Gwenllian, a healer and warrior. Despite their initial animosity, they find themselves on a slow-burn journey of forgiveness, love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of English vs Welsh politics. The book delves into themes of identity, love, betrayal, and redemption, portraying a romance that builds subtly and intensely between two unlikely allies who must navigate their conflicting loyalties amidst a turbulent historical setting.
Gwenllian, a plain yet strong-willed woman, and Ranulf, a complex and tormented hero, form a compelling bond that evolves from discord to mutual respect and admiration. The narrative weaves together elements of medieval history, intricate character development, intense emotional moments, and a richly detailed setting in Wales. The story unfolds with layers of depth and complexity, exploring themes of inner strength, redemption, and the transformative power of love amid a backdrop of political intrigue and personal turmoil.
When first he woke, he thought he must be roasting in the fires of Hell. Later he would know that it was a raging fever that burned him, and she would tell him it was a delirium that caused insensate...June 2015•324 pages








