Books Like...
"A Rogue By Any Other Name" by Sarah MacLean follows the story of Lady Penelope Marbury and Michael, Marquess of Bourne. Michael, seeking revenge against his guardian, decides to marry Penelope to gain back his inheritance. The story explores their tumultuous relationship, filled with emotional turmoil, growth, and unexpected love. The writing style is described as engaging, humorous, and filled with witty banter, making the characters and their journey come alive for the readers.
If you liked A Rogue by Any Other Name, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
In "Wicked and the Wallflower," Lady Felicity Faircloth, a once-prominent member of the ton who has fallen from grace, finds herself entangled with Devil, a man seeking revenge on his estranged half-brother, the Duke of Marwick. As their paths collide, Felicity's quick wit and lockpicking skills captivate Devil, leading to a complex relationship that unfolds against the backdrop of both upper-class society and the gritty streets of Covent Garden. The novel is praised for its well-developed characters, vivid setting, and the gradual evolution of Felicity and Devil's relationship as they navigate societal expectations and personal desires.
It had begun pounding as she’d slipped from the glittering Marwick House ballroom and stared at the locked door in front of her, ignoring the nearly unbearable desire to reach into her coif and extrac... - #2
'Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake' by Sarah MacLean follows the story of Lady Calpurnia Hartwell, a wallflower who decides to break free from societal expectations and embarks on a journey to experience scandalous adventures. She enlists the help of Gabriel St. John, the Marquess of Ralston, and as they break the rules together, they find themselves falling in love. The plot revolves around Calpurnia's quest for self-discovery and empowerment, intertwined with a budding romance with Gabriel. The writing style is described as light, charming, and humorous, with engaging characters and witty banter that keeps readers entertained. is praised for its well-rounded characters, carefully crafted storyline, and the delightful escapism it offers to readers.
Gabriel St. John, Marquess of Ralston, took in the early-morning light washing over the decadently appointed room. For a moment, he remained still, registering the rich hues of the chamber, adorned wi... - #3
'Bombshell' by Sarah MacLean is part of the 'Hell's Belles' series and follows the story of Sesily and Caleb, who are part of a group of women working together to bring down society's worst men. The book is filled with intrigue, strong female characters, witty dialogue, and steamy love scenes. The plot revolves around the Hell's Belles, a Victorian girl gang that can solve problems for a price, and the relationships that develop between them and the men who hire them.
Lady Sesily Talbot stood behind the refreshment table at the Duchess of Trevescan’s autumn ball, contemplating the teeming mass of aristocrats and happily commentating for her friend and hostess. Inde... - #4
The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne is a gripping historical romance novel set in England, featuring the characters Farah Mackenzie and Dorian Blackwell. The story delves into the past of the protagonists, exploring their childhood connection in an orphanage and how it shapes their present lives. As Farah, a widow working at Scotland Yard, encounters the notorious criminal Dorian Blackwell, a complex relationship unfolds, filled with dark secrets, kidnapping, and a marriage of convenience. The writing style of the book is described as intense, touching on psychological themes of trauma, redemption, and the power of love to heal wounds.
Blood ran down Dougan Mackenzie’s forearms as he crouched against the ancient stone wall separating the grounds of Applecross Orphanage from the wild mountains beyond. None of the other children ventu... - #5
"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.
A stable boy wasn’t supposed to speak to an earl’s daughter, much less climb up to her bedroom window. God knew what would happen to him if he was caught. He would probably be whipped before being boo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Wallflowers ) - #6
Lady Sophie Talbot, one of the "Soiled S's," finds herself in a scandalous situation after pushing her cheating brother-in-law into a fish pond. Seeking to escape the ton and its strictures, she ends up on an unexpected adventure with Kingscote, the Marquess of Eversley. As they embark on a journey together, full of shenanigans, misunderstandings, and sparkling banter, Sophie and King navigate scandals and hurt from their respective families while discovering unexpected feelings for each other.
Filled with witty banter, outrageous adventures, and dynamic characters, "The Rogue Not Taken" is a light-hearted regency romance that combines humor, romance, and drama. Sarah MacLean's writing style brings to life a story of two misfits who find themselves perfectly suited for each other, despite their imperfections, as they open up to love in unexpected ways.
Perhaps no one would have witnessed the events of the thirteenth of June, the final, legendary garden party of the 1833 season. Perhaps London would have happily packed itself into myriad coaches that... - #7
In Lisa Kleypas' 'Secrets of a Summer Night', the story unfolds as Annabelle Peyton, a young woman in genteel poverty, seeks a wealthy husband to secure her family's financial future. Through a pact with other unmarryable young women, they navigate the challenges of societal expectations and class distinctions in their pursuit of love and security. The book delves into themes of old money versus new money, the impact of the industrial revolution in 1840s England, and the complexities of relationships amidst societal changes.
Annabelle swung her foot impatiently beneath the frothy white mass of her skirts while she kept her expression composed. During her past three failed seasons, she had become accustomed to being a wall... - #8
'Daring and the Duke' by Sarah MacLean is the final installment in the Bareknuckle Bastards series, focusing on the story of Grace and Ewan. Grace, a strong and fierce character, must navigate forgiveness and love towards Ewan, who has a dark past filled with betrayal and violence. is praised for its immersive historical romance, compelling plot twists, and the author's ability to redeem a seemingly unredeemable character, creating a story full of action, humor, and emotional depth.
It didn’t matter that she was unqualified to speak of the wide world. She’d never strayed far from this enormous manor house, tucked into the quiet Essex countryside two days’ walk northeast of London...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Bareknuckle Bastards ) - #9
The Madness of Viscount Atherbourne by Elisa Braden is a historical romance novel that follows a forced marriage with a revenge plot. The book delves into family dynamics, intense love, and features a talented portrait painter as the female main character. The plot includes themes of rescue from ruin, marriage of convenience, and a balance between slow burn and sexual attraction.
“Bah! The London season has become little more than an exhibition of vapidness. One may choose to tolerate such a display, but only a halfwit enjoys it.” —The Dowager Marchioness of Wallingham at her ... - #10
'Wicked Intentions' by Elizabeth Hoyt is set in 18th century London and follows the story of Temperance Dew, a widow who assists her brother in running a charitable orphanage on a tight budget. When they lose their financial backing, Lord Caire, a notorious rake searching for the murderer of his mistress, strikes a deal with Temperance to introduce him to potential financial backers in exchange for his help in guiding him through London's slums. weaves together romance, mystery, and exploration of societal issues, set against a backdrop of the dark and dangerous streets of London.
They were coming to a turn in the alley, and Temperance thought she saw light up ahead. She held her lantern high and gripped the ancient pistol in her other hand a little tighter. The weapon was heav...