Books matching: strong historical details
52 result(s)
- #1
Save:In "At Her Service," Hugh D'Abernon, Marquis of Darley, finds himself entangled in espionage during the Crimean War, where he risks his life to spy for the British Secret Service. Despite his aversion to commitment, fate leads him to Aurore, a woman he meets while on a reconnaissance mission. Their encounter sets off a chain of events that challenge their beliefs and emotions, ultimately leading to a complex and passionate relationship. Susan Johnson's writing style in this historical romance novel captures the essence of European suspense, weaving together a tale of love, danger, and intrigue set against the backdrop of war-torn Crimea.
- #2
Save:In "Marquess to a Flame" by Emily Windsor, the story revolves around Jack Winterbourne, a rogue and spy known as the Moth, who is tasked with wooing an innocent woman named Tamsyn to extract information about a villain known as La Chauve Souris. Tamsyn, scarred and haunted by her past encounter with La Chauve Souris, reluctantly opens up to Jack, leading to a complex tale of romance, mystery, and redemption. The book is praised for its engaging plot full of twists, well-developed characters, and witty banter between Jack and Tamsyn, creating a steamy historical romance with a touch of suspense.
Who could he cajole to the Cyder Cellars of an evening? Or badger relentlessly until they divulged their problems? After all, he couldn’t pass every night in the lap of an agreeable woman – well, mayb...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rules of the Rogue ) - #3
Save:Sisters of Shiloh is a historical fiction novel that follows the story of two sisters, Libby and Josephine, who disguise themselves as men, Thomas and Joseph, to join the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Driven by a desire for revenge and justice, the sisters navigate the harsh realities of war, forming a bond that transcends gender roles. The book is praised for its well-researched historical background, vivid descriptions of the Civil War era, and engaging writing style that immerses readers into the sisters' journey of love, sacrifice, and sisterly devotion.
Libby waited for her dead husband in the woods, her breath making clouds in the cold night air. Her hair was cut short above her ears, and her neck was cold. Her wool uniform itched. She had not slept... - #4
Save:Pandora by Susan Stokes-Chapman is a historical fiction novel set in Georgian London in 1799. It follows the story of Dora Blake, an aspiring jewelry designer living with her unscrupulous uncle, Hezekiah, who has ruined their family's antiquities shop. The plot thickens when an ancient Greek vase, or pithos, arrives at the shop, sparking mystery and intrigue. Dora teams up with Edward Lawrence, an antiquarian scholar, to uncover the secrets surrounding the pithos and confront her uncle's shady dealings. The story weaves elements of mythological references along with strong character development, particularly highlighting Dora's quest for independence and her complex relationships with both Edward and Cornelius, Edward's friend.
The writing style of Stokes-Chapman is atmospheric and immersive, effectively capturing the vivid details of the time and setting. The narrative flows with a mix of intricate historical details and subtle mythical elements, leading readers through a slow-building plot that ultimately pays off. While some readers found the pacing to be initially slow and the resolution a bit abrupt, the character arcs and atmospheric writing created an engaging reading experience. This debut novel combines a rich exploration of mythology with relatable themes of personal growth and the struggles of its characters, making it a notable read for fans of the genre.
- #5
Save:'Lessons of Desire' by Madeline Hunter is a modern romance set in the 1820s, focusing on the characters Lord Elliot Rothwell and Phaedra Blair. The story revolves around Lord Elliot's efforts to rescue Phaedra from house arrest and an angry mob, leading to them being forced together and discovering an irresistible attraction between them. Phaedra, a unique and independent heroine, evolves through her struggles for independence and inner conflicts, while Lord Elliot grows as a man, overcoming personal fears without losing his masculinity.
The plot is well crafted with complicated characters, emotional development, and a satisfying ending that keeps readers thinking days after finishing the book. The setting in England and Naples adds depth to the story, exploring themes of love, desire, history, and difficult choices in a modern and engaging narrative style.
(Also, see 30 recommendations for the series Rothwell ) - #6
Save:The Crusader's Bride by Claire Delacroix is a medieval romance novel set in the twelfth century following the story of Templar knight Gaston de Chaumont and healer Ysmaine de Valroy. The book takes the readers on a journey from Jerusalem to Venice and then to Paris, filled with mystery, romance, and adventure. Gaston, the compassionate warrior, decides to marry Ysmaine, a determined and selfless widow, and together they embark on a perilous journey to France while protecting a religious treasure that must be safeguarded at all costs. The plot is intricately woven with overlapping stories and intriguing characters, leaving the readers engaged and eager to uncover the mysteries surrounding the couple's future.
- #7
Save:Set in 1918 during the Spanish influenza pandemic and World War I, "In the Shadow of Blackbirds" follows Mary Shelley Black as she moves to San Diego after her father's arrest. The story revolves around Mary's journey as she navigates through the fear of the flu, her father's anti-war views, and the death of her first love, Stephen. The plot unfolds as Mary grapples with paranormal occurrences, trying to uncover the truth behind Stephen's death, all while experiencing the lasting effects of war and the horrors of life during that time period.
The book combines elements of historical fiction, paranormal activity, and a touch of gothic horror, creating a suspenseful and mesmerizing narrative that keeps readers on edge. The writing style is described as poetic and enchanting, with readers praising the character development and the author's ability to intertwine real historical events with a captivating storyline that delves into themes such as spiritualism, loss, and the complexities of life during a tumultuous period.
I received your letter, and as much as seeing your words on paper sent my heart racing, I hated reading that my package never reached you. It should have arrived at your house nearly two months ago. I... - #8
Save: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 ... - #9
Save:The Choir Boats by Daniel A. Rabuzzi is a unique blend of epic fantasy and steampunk set circa 1812, featuring prophecies, quests, adventures, and magic run by mathematical equations and science. The story follows the main character, Barnabas McDoon, who is faced with the choice of making amends for the sins of his past, leading him to discover that the world he thought he knew is wrong. The narrative takes readers on a journey to the fictional world of Yount, filled with vivid imagery, remarkable characters, and a mix of history, folklore, and literary references. However, some readers found the advanced vocabulary challenging and wished for more depth in character development.
London merchant Barnabas Eusebius Playdermon McDoon received a box at his Mincing Lane house on the first Monday of 1812. Sanford, the firm’s other partner, a man of few hairs and fewer words, said th... - #10
Save:Learned by Heart by Emma Donoghue is a meticulously researched novel based on actual historical figures set in 1805 York, England at a girls boarding school. The story follows the love affair between Anne Lister and Eliza Raine, exploring themes of forbidden love, coming of age, and societal expectations. The narrative moves between the girls' school days and ten years later when Eliza is in a mental asylum, writing letters to Anne Lister.
The writing style of Learned by Heart is described as idiosyncratic and complex, drawing readers into the detailed setting of the boarding school where the characters navigate love, friendship, and societal norms. Emma Donoghue's intricate storytelling weaves together the lives of Anne Lister and Eliza Raine, capturing the essence of first love, self-discovery, and the challenges of being different in 1800s England.
