Books Like...
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.
If you liked The Highwayman, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
'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... - #2
In "A Dark and Stormy Knight" by Kerrigan Byrne, readers are taken on a thrilling historical romance journey following Chief Inspector Sir Carlton Morley and Prudence "Pru" Goode. The story revolves around a chance encounter that leads to a passionate night between the two characters, setting off a chain of events that intertwine their lives amidst mystery, murder, and unexpected twists. Kerrigan Byrne's writing style intricately weaves together complex characters, emotional depth, and a gripping plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
- #3
In "The Duchess Deal" by Tessa Dare, Emma, a seamstress in dire need of payment for a bridal gown, barges into the Duke of Ashbury's residence. The Duke, scarred and reclusive after a war injury, proposes a marriage of convenience to solve both their problems. As they navigate their unconventional relationship, they find themselves falling in love amidst witty banter and heartwarming interactions. The plot unfolds at a good pace, blending humor, romance, and light-heartedness, with side characters adding depth and entertainment to the story. The writing style is witty, engaging, and filled with delightful interactions between the characters.
She swallowed hard. She could do this. Once, she’d walked to London alone in the bitter heart of winter. She’d refused to succumb to despair or starvation. She’d found work and made a new life for her... - #4
"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 ) - #5
Lisa Kleypas presents a captivating historical romance in "Dreaming of You." Set in Victorian England, the novel follows Sara Fielding, a female author delving into the lives of destitute prostitutes and young men affected by gambling and addiction. When Sara saves Derek Craven, the wealthy owner of Craven's Gambling Club, their fateful encounter leads to a complex relationship filled with bickering, tension, and eventual love. The story unfolds with exciting and surprising scenes, showcasing Kleypas' skill in creating characters with depth and emotion.
"Dreaming of You" weaves a touching love story between Sara and Derek, two characters who defy societal norms and class boundaries. Sara, a sweet and innocent heroine, pairs perfectly with Derek, a brooding and damaged hero who struggles with his dark past. As their relationship evolves amidst miscommunications and insecurities, readers are drawn into a world of passion, angst, and self-discovery, making this novel a compelling read for fans of historical romance.
The lone figure of a woman stood in the shadows. She leaned against the wall of a crumbling lodging house, her shoulders hunched as if she were ill. Derek Craven’s hard green eyes flickered over her a... - #6
'The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie' is a historical romance novel that follows the unconventional love story between Lord Ian Mackenzie, who has Asperger's Syndrome, and Beth, a practical and strong-willed heroine. Set in 1881, the book delves into the challenges faced by Ian due to his condition and the societal norms of the time. The plot includes a murder mystery subplot that adds depth to the story, while the writing style is described as touching, funny, and enthralling, capturing the reader's attention with its originality and surprising twists.
The characters of Ian and Beth are portrayed as unique and endearing, with their relationship being a central focus of the book. The story is praised for its portrayal of Ian's condition and the historical context surrounding it, showing the author's skill in handling sensitive topics with depth and authenticity. Additionally, the book is commended for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the introduction of the intriguing MacKenzie family, setting the stage for a captivating series of novels.
“I find that a Ming bowl is like a woman’s breast,” Sir Lyndon Mather said to Ian Mackenzie, who held the bowl in question between his fingertips. “The swelling curve, the creamy pallor. Don’t you agr... - #7
In "Lord of Scoundrels" by Loretta Chase, the story follows Jessica and Dain, who initially clash but later find themselves entangled in a battle of wits and desire. Jessica takes charge in their relationship, pushing Dain to confront his past and his responsibilities, including a son he fathered with a prostitute. The book is praised for its entertaining diversion, witty and romantic writing style, and the strong, independent, and modern-thinking heroine, Jessica Trent.
Sir Bertram dragged his hand through his tousled brown curls. It was two o’clock in the afternoon and he’d only just changed out of his dressing gown. “Genevieve,” he said hollowly. “Oh, Lord, it is h... - #8
'The Duke of Shadows' by Meredith Duran is a historical romance novel set in India during the time of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. The story follows Emmaline Stone and Julian Sinclair, two individuals from different worlds who must work together to survive the uprising. The book explores themes of intense intimacy, passion, grief, and the complexities of relationships during a time of dangerous unrest. The writing style is described as vivid and detailed, with a richly developed atmosphere that immerses the reader into another time and place.
JULIAN FIRST NOTICED HER BECAUSE SHE LOOKED SO bored. Waiting for the Commissioner’s arrival had put him on edge. He stood at the top of the room, half attending to the feverish chatter around him, hi... - #9
Lady Alexandra Lane's life is irrevocably changed when she is called into Headmaster Maurice de Marchand's office mere days before she was due to graduate from L'Ecole de Chardonne School in Switzerland. De Marchand has found the items Alexandra and her friends Francesca Cavendish, the Countess of Mont Claire and Cecelia Teague pilfered over the years for their Red Rogues Society. When de Marchand's punishment turns brutal and he rapes Alexandra, she does what she must to stop the attack and flees. With the help of her friends and a trusted servant Jean Yves, they bury the body and clean up the scene. That awful night the girls who have been friends for years, share their deepest, darkest secrets and vow to never marry and to protect each other forever. Piers Atherton, Duke of Redmayne, also known as the Terror of Torcliff, is about to enter into a marriage on convenience with one of Alexandra's friends but is tempted by the bridesmaid, not the bride.
The first, she had been unable to stop fretting for Francesca, who tended to give more than the appropriate amount of context. The terse, vague note Alexandra now held was more of a warning than the m... - #10
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...