Books Like...

In 1730, Alec Kenleigh, a wealthy shipbuilder, is abducted, beaten, and sent to the American colonies as an indentured servant under the false identity of Cole Braden. Meanwhile, Cassie Blackwell, a strong-willed woman managing her family's Virginia plantation, purchases Cole out of compassion. As Cole proves himself to be honorable and well-educated, Cassie starts to question his reported crimes and helps him in his quest to prove his true identity and gain freedom. The story delves into themes of slavery, societal differences, and romance in the 18th century, with a mix of suspense, drama, and historical detail.

Set in the 1760s during the French and Indian War, "Ride the Fire" follows the story of Nicholas Kenleigh, a loyal and strong man who was captured and tortured by the Wyandot tribe. When Nicholas stumbles wounded into Bethie Stewart's homestead, a pregnant widow wary of men due to past abuse, their lives intertwine. As Nicholas helps Bethie deliver her child and protect her from the dangers of the frontier, a slow-building love forms between the two equally wounded souls. The book portrays the challenges faced by settlers on the American frontier, with vivid historical details and intense scenes of survival and bravery.

Set during the American Civil War, "An Extraordinary Union" follows the story of Elle Burns, a former slave turned Union spy, who goes undercover in the household of a Confederate Senator. There, she meets Malcolm McCall, a soldier who is also a Union spy. As they navigate their dangerous mission, their relationship develops amidst the tension and conflict of the war. The book explores themes of espionage, interracial relationships, and the complexities of identity during a tumultuous period in American history. The writing style blends romance and historical fiction, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate their roles in a divided nation.

The year 1777 sets the stage for 'The Turncoat,' a story of espionage and intrigue during the Revolutionary War. The plot follows Kate, a young woman thrust into a web of espionage as she becomes a spy for the Rebel cause in Philadelphia. The narrative is filled with historical detail, realistic backgrounds, and continuous twists and turns that keep readers on edge. Secrets are revealed, and the horrors of war are exposed, all while characters navigate the risks and dangers of being caught in the crossfire of a nation's fight for independence.

The book skillfully weaves a tale of romance and historical fiction, breaking boundaries and expectations. The characters, especially the complex female lead, are well-developed, offering a refreshing take on the genre. The writing style is praised for its authenticity, period dialogue, and the tightly crafted plot of intrigue, mystery, and suspense, making 'The Turncoat' a standout piece of historical fiction.

The MacKinnon's Bride by Tanya Anne Crosby is a historical romance novel set in Scotland in the early 1100s. The story follows the capture of Page, an English nobleman's daughter, by Scottish Laird Iain MacKinnon as a bargaining chip to retrieve his kidnapped son from the English. As Page and Iain spend time together, their adversarial relationship turns into a growing attraction, leading to a complex romance. The plot includes elements of suspense, love, and redemption, with the characters navigating their past traumas and forming a deep connection amidst political tensions between highland and lowland cultures.

Princess Ai Li, the sixth child of the Emperor of China, flees from an arranged marriage upon discovering her betrothed is a traitor. Armed with her butterfly swords, she meets Ryam, a blue-eyed foreigner, and convinces him to help escort her back to the Imperial city. As they travel together, Ai Li and Ryam form a deep bond, navigating through dangerous situations and facing their growing attraction amidst the backdrop of Tang Dynasty China. The plot is filled with adventure, romance, and sensuality, set in a unique historical setting that offers a refreshing change from typical historical romance novels.

The story unfolds with intricate details of Tang Dynasty politics and the challenges faced by the protagonists as they fight against societal norms and personal obstacles to be together. The characters of Ai Li and Ryam are well-rounded, each possessing unique qualities that complement and attract one another. Their journey towards love and overcoming the odds is intertwined with fast-paced action, sensual encounters, and engaging sword fights, making "Butterfly Swords" a compelling historical romance that immerses readers in a vivid and vibrant world.

'Into the Wilderness' by Sara Donati is a historical romance novel set in 1792, focusing on the story of Elizabeth Middleton and Nathaniel Bonner. The book explores the adventures and challenges faced by the characters as they navigate love, survival, and societal expectations in the American wilderness. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and filled with rich historical details that transport readers to a different time and place.

The plot of 'Into the Wilderness' revolves around the blossoming romance between Elizabeth and Nathaniel amidst the backdrop of post-revolutionary upstate New York. The characters are portrayed as complex and well-developed, with the storyline blending elements of action, romance, and 18th-century drama. Readers are drawn into a world filled with vivid descriptions, compelling relationships, and a sense of historical authenticity that captures the essence of the time period.

In "The Touch of Fire" by Linda Howard, the story unfolds in the Old West where Rafe, an outlaw framed for a crime he did not commit, seeks help from Annie, a skilled female doctor. As Rafe kidnaps Annie to keep his secret safe, a slow but intense relationship develops between them. The plot involves themes of redemption, love, and survival as the characters navigate through danger and deception in a historical setting. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of adventure, passion, and emotional depth that keeps readers captivated till the end.

The Pursuit Of... by Courtney Milan is a novella set during the Revolutionary War, following the story of John, a former slave, and Henry, the second son of a British aristocrat. The book explores themes of privilege, freedom, and equality through the unique relationship between the two main characters. Milan's writing style is described as engaging, with memorable and charming characters that leave a lasting impact on the reader.

'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.