Books Like...

Slightly Dangerous is the final novel in the Bedwyn Series by Mary Balogh, focusing on the story of Wulfric, the Duke of Bewcastle, and the widowed Christine Derrick. The book explores the unlikely and captivating romance between the seemingly cold and authoritarian Wulfric and the lively schoolteacher Christine, with a talent for calamity. Balogh's writing style expertly weaves together a tale of complex characters, personal secrets, and unexpected connections, set away from the fashionable ton environment of London.

The plot unfolds at a house party where Wulfric and Christine meet, initially appearing as polar opposites but gradually revealing a powerful attraction and a meeting of minds. As their relationship develops, Christine brings joy and spontaneity into Wulfric's life, while he provides her with a sense of companionship and freedom from past pain. Balogh pays tribute to Pride and Prejudice in this novel, blending familiar character dynamics with a refreshing twist, creating a compelling and heartwarming story of love and self-discovery.

In "Devil in Spring," part of "The Ravenels" series by Lisa Kleypas, the story follows Pandora, the wildest of the Ravenel sisters, who has no intention of marrying as she dreams of owning her own game-making company. However, a compromising situation leads her down a different path, where she finds herself engaged to Gabriel, Lord St. Vincent. The book explores Pandora's determination to remain independent and her struggles between wanting freedom and love, all set against the backdrop of Victorian England. The writing style captures a blend of witty banter, heated kisses, and tender love scenes, while also delving into historical aspects such as women's entrepreneurship and societal limitations.

Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel set in the Regency era, focusing on the tumultuous relationship between Lily Lawson, a wild and reckless woman ostracized by society, and Alex, Earl of Raiford. Lily intervenes to prevent her younger sister's loveless marriage to Alex, who is still mourning the loss of his previous fiancée. As Lily and Alex clash and navigate their complicated feelings, secrets and past traumas come to light, leading to a transformation in both characters. The story is filled with drama, scandal, and romance, showcasing the struggles of love and trust in a society where reputations are paramount.

'Mine Till Midnight' by Lisa Kleypas is the first book in 'The Hathaways' series, following the story of Amelia Hathaway, who is responsible for taking care of her siblings after a family tragedy. The book introduces readers to a quirky family dynamic, a passionate romance between Amelia and the half-Gypsy Cam Rohan, and touches on themes of family loyalty, independence, and societal expectations. The writing style is described as engaging, with elements of historical accuracy, steamy romance, and a touch of paranormal storyline.

In "Love in the Afternoon" by Lisa Kleypas, the story revolves around Beatrix Hathaway, the youngest of the clan, who begins a correspondence with Captain Christopher Phelan under her friend's name. As their letters deepen their connection, Christopher returns home as a war-weary soldier looking for the woman he fell in love with through the letters, not realizing it was Beatrix all along. The book explores themes of love, deception, PTSD, and growth as Beatrix and Christopher navigate their feelings and past traumas to find a way to be together. The writing style of the book is described as romantic, sweet, and heartwrenching, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.

"Marrying Winterborne" by Lisa Kleypas is a historical romance novel set in Victorian London. The story revolves around the relationship between Rhys Winterborne, a self-made wealthy businessman with a rough exterior, and Lady Helen Ravenel, an aristocratic woman facing financial difficulties. Despite their different backgrounds, they are drawn to each other, leading to a passionate and tender romance. The writing style is described as vivid and detailed, capturing the Victorian era's clothing, food, and societal norms.

In "Devil's Daughter," Phoebe, a widow with two young children, finds herself unexpectedly attracted to West Ravenel, a man she had grown up despising due to his past bullying behavior towards her late husband. As Phoebe navigates her feelings for West, she also grapples with managing her son's inheritance and estate with his help. The book explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances as both Phoebe and West evolve and find love amidst their complicated pasts. The writing style is characterized by witty banter, charming interactions, and tender moments that highlight the characters' growth and emotional depth.

Cold-Hearted Rake by Lisa Kleypas is the first book in The Ravenels series, set in the late 19th century. The story follows Devon Ravenel, a charmingly wicked bachelor who inherits an earldom with a lot of debt and complications. Sparks fly between Devon and the beautiful widow, Kathleen Lady Trenear, amidst family dynamics and societal restrictions. The plot unfolds with a mix of romance, societal challenges, and character growth, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society.

When Annabelle Archer earns a place as one of the first women to study at Oxford in England in 1879, she encounters a group of early suffragettes and an insufferable duke who is not at all happy with his attraction to a commoner. The story revolves around their interactions, the societal expectations they face, and the development of their romance amidst the backdrop of the suffragette movement. The writing style is described as enthralling, with a good balance between serious themes of gender and class and the more lighthearted aspects of the story.

"Married By Morning" in the series "The Hathaways" by Lisa Kleypas follows the story of Catherine Marks, a proper and bespectacled governess hired to chaperone and tutor the Ramsey girls, and Leo, the rakish brother of the girls. As they argue and butt heads, they realize they are perfect for each other despite their miscommunication and bickering. Leo must marry and produce a male heir within five years to keep his title, leading to a lot of drama and emotional growth between the two characters.