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Private Arrangements by Sherry Thomas is a Victorian romance novel that delves into the unusual and controversial plotline of a married aristocratic couple, Lord and Lady Tremaine, estranged for ten years after their marriage. The story unfolds by shifting between 1882, the year they meet and marry, and 1893, the year they reunite to produce an heir before seeking a divorce. The book intricately weaves together past and present events, revealing the complexities of their relationship, the reasons for their estrangement, and the emotional turmoil they experience.

The narrative of Private Arrangements is characterized by deep emotional intensity, complex character dynamics, and a non-linear storytelling approach. Sherry Thomas skillfully crafts a tale of love, betrayal, redemption, and forgiveness, drawing readers into the lives of the protagonists, Gigi and Camden, as they navigate the repercussions of their past actions and strive to find their way back to each other. The book not only explores the romantic relationship between the main characters but also delves into the secondary storyline involving Gigi's mother and her own romantic pursuits, adding depth and richness to the overall narrative.

If you liked Private Arrangements, here are the top 100 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: The London Trilogy)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Day of the Duchess - Scandal & Scoundrel by Sarah MacLean
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    'The Day of the Duchess' by Sarah MacLean is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Seraphina, Duchess of Haven, who returns from exile demanding a divorce from her husband, Malcolm, Duke of Haven. The book delves into their tumultuous relationship, filled with regret, anger, guilt, and shattered dreams, as they navigate the past and present to find a way forward. The plot intricately weaves together themes of second chances, love, heartbreak, and redemption, while exploring the complexities of a marriage marred by lies and betrayal.

    The writing style in 'The Day of the Duchess' is described as emotionally impactful and beautifully written, with a narrative that interweaves past and present to reveal the depth of the characters' emotions and struggles. The book is praised for its exploration of forgiveness, acceptance, and the possibility of building a future together despite a troubled past, all set against a backdrop of historical accuracy and well-researched details.

    August the nineteenth, 1836. The last day of the parliamentary session, filled with pomp and idle. And lingering memory. He spun the wheel with the six embossed upon it. Five. Four. He took a deep bre...

  2. #2

    Not Quite a Husband - The Marsdens by Sherry Thomas
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    'Not Quite a Husband' by Sherry Thomas revolves around the complex and tumultuous relationship between the main characters, Leo Marsden and Bryony. Set against the backdrop of late 19th century India on the eve of rebellion, the story follows their journey of a failed marriage, annulment, and a chance to make things right amidst the Indian Mutiny. The writing style is described as engaging, with vivid descriptions of the Indian landscape and a compelling narrative structure that seamlessly weaves together flashbacks and present events.

    In the course of her long and illustrious career, Bryony Asquith was the subject of numerous newspaper and magazine articles, almost all of which described her appearance as distinguished and unique, ...

  3. #3
    Ravishing the Heiress
    Book 2 in the series:Fitzhugh

    Ravishing the Heiress - Fitzhugh by Sherry Thomas
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    'Ravishing the Heiress' in the Fitzhugh series by Sherry Thomas revolves around the emotional journey of Millie and Fitz in their arranged marriage. The story delves into the complexities of their relationship, including Fitz's past love, Isabelle, returning and the challenges they face in their marriage. The writing style is described as emotional, with flashbacks providing insight into the evolution of Millie and Fitz's relationship over the years.

    Sometimes, as she lay in bed at night, she thought of falling in love, in the ways of a Jane Austen novel—her mother did not allow her to read the Brontës. Love, it seemed to her, was a result born of...

  4. #4

    Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage - MacKenzies & McBrides by Jennifer Ashley
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    Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage delves into the tumultuous relationship between Lady Isabella and Lord Mac Mackenzie. Their impulsive marriage following a scandalous debut ball leads to years of separation, fueled by Mac's alcoholism and disappearing acts. The book explores themes of second chances, reconciliation, and trust-building, all set against the backdrop of a mystery involving forged paintings and an imposter.

    All of London was amazed to learn of the sudden marriage of Lady I—S—and Lord M—M—, brother of the Duke of K—,last evening. The lady in question had her Come-Out and her Wedding the same night, leadin...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series MacKenzies & McBrides )

  5. #5

    This Duchess of Mine - Desperate Duchesses by Eloisa James
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    Jemma and Elijah, the Duke and Duchess of Beaumont, have a tumultuous relationship filled with past betrayals and estrangement. In "This Duchess of Mine," they are brought back together with the goal of producing an heir before Elijah's failing health catches up with him. The story delves into their journey of forgiveness, rediscovery of love, and overcoming past mistakes, all set within the backdrop of Georgian romance. The writing style of Eloisa James is praised for its emotional depth, strategic plot development, and engaging character dynamics, particularly between the main couple.

    No one dressed to please a husband. At least, not in the Duchess of Beaumont's circle of acquaintances. One dressed—to be frank—to dazzle and amaze one's female friends. Or, if one were so inclined, t...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Desperate Duchesses )

  6. #6

    The Sins of Lord Lockwood - Rules for the Reckless by Meredith Duran
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    The Sins of Lord Lockwood by Meredith Duran is a historical romance novel that delves into the tumultuous relationship between Liam Devaliant, the Earl of Lockwood, and his estranged wife, Anna. The story unfolds as Anna discovers that Liam, who disappeared on their wedding night, has returned to London after four years, but never bothered to contact her. Fueled by anger and resentment, Anna confronts Liam, only to uncover the truth behind his mysterious absence and the dark secrets that have haunted him. As they navigate through feelings of betrayal, guilt, and revenge, the couple must confront their past and find a way to rebuild their shattered relationship amidst turmoil and emotional turmoil. The narrative is rich in emotional depth, with flashbacks revealing the complexities of their relationship and the challenges they face in reconciling their past with their present.

    Anna had never set foot inside her husband’s London townhouse. They had met and fallen in love in the north of Scotland; he had wed and then abandoned her in Edinburgh. But she felt as though she knew...

  7. #7

    To Have and to Hoax - The Regency Vows by Martha Waters
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    To Have and To Hoax by Martha Waters is a Regency romantic comedy novel that follows Lady Violet Grey and Lord James Audley, a couple who fell in love five years ago but have been estranged for the past four years due to a misunderstanding. Determined to end their stalemate, Lady Violet devises a plan involving pretending to be ill, leading to a series of miscommunications, missteps, and hilarious schemes in attempts to rekindle their romance. The book is filled with witty banter, charming characters, and a plot that explores the complexities of marriage and trust in a lighthearted and fun manner.

    To Love and To Loathe is definitely the better book with lovely secondary characters, well-written love scenes, and a story about two people in love who have lost trust in each other but need to find their way back through hilarious tricks and schemes. The writing style is described as fun, sharp, and sassy, capturing the verbal jousting of polite society in the Regency period. The book offers a refreshing take on a married couple's relationship post-Happily Ever After, with an exciting cast of supporting characters that add depth to the story.

    “Really, Violet,” said Diana, Lady Templeton, reaching for the teapot. “Allow me.” Given Diana’s disinclination to exert herself when it was not strictly necessary, this was an indication of dire stra...

  8. #8

    Desperate Duchesses - Desperate Duchesses by Eloisa James
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    In 'Desperate Duchesses' by Eloisa James, the story revolves around Lady Roberta St. Giles, a woman determined to marry the Duke of Villiers, despite her cousin Damon's attempts to win her affections. Set in Georgian England, the book delves into complex relationships, witty banter, and a touch of scandal. With a focus on chess matches, romantic entanglements, and intricate character dynamics, the novel weaves together a tale of love, ambition, and societal expectations in a decadent era.

    “I n Paris, a married lady must have a lover or she is an unknown. And she may be pardoned two.” The door to the drawing room swung open, but the young woman sitting with her back to the door took no...

  9. #9
    Beguiling the Beauty
    Book 1 in the series:Fitzhugh

    Beguiling the Beauty - Fitzhugh by Sherry Thomas
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    'Beguiling the Beauty' by Sherry Thomas is a historical romance set in 1895 and follows the story of Venetia and Christian, who fall in love during a cruise home but face obstacles due to misunderstandings and societal gossip. The plot includes themes of mistaken identity, love at first sight, and the consequences of deception. The writing style is described as accomplished, with well-rounded adult characters and sparkling dialogue that keeps readers engaged throughout the story.

    The ichthyosaur skeleton at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology was incomplete. But the fish lizard was one of the first to be found on American soil, in the state of Wyoming, and the American uni...

  10. #10

    Lady Gallant - European Renaissance by Suzanne Robinson
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    "Lady Gallant" by Suzanne Robinson is a historical romance set in the Tudor period during the reign of Mary Tudor, also known as Bloody Mary. The story follows the complex relationship between the heroine, Nora Beckett, and the hero, Christian de Rivers, Lord Monfort. Christian, a rake with a troubled past, marries Nora under false pretenses, believing she is a spy. As their tumultuous relationship unfolds, secrets are revealed, betrayals occur, and the characters navigate a society filled with intrigue, danger, and societal expectations. The writing style captures the essence of the time period, with well-drawn characters and a blend of drama, romance, and historical elements that keep readers engaged.

    Nuns no longer went in fear of their lives, as they had in old King Harry's time, and one had broken her journey to her convent at the royal manor of Hatfield. Her shaking, mittened hand closed the do...

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