Books Like...

'A Chance at Love' by Beverly Jenkins follows the story of Loreli Winters, a strong and independent woman who unexpectedly becomes a mail-order bride for the sake of two young girls who want her as their mother. Loreli's journey intertwines with Jake Reed, the uncle of the girls, who initially resists the idea of Loreli becoming a part of their lives. As their relationship develops, both Loreli and Jake navigate through challenges, love, and self-discovery, creating a pure and heartwarming romance. portrays Loreli as a determined and kind-hearted character, while Jake's struggle with his feelings for her adds depth to the story, making it a captivating read.

Through the Storm is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Sable, a former slave, who escapes to a contraband camp during the Civil War and meets Raimond LeVeq, a charming Haitian officer. Their attraction is immediate, but Sable, determined to maintain her newfound freedom, resists any ties that may bind her again. The book explores the complexities of race, class, and relationships during this tumultuous period in history, with a strong focus on the development of the characters and their interactions. Beverly Jenkins weaves together a compelling narrative filled with historical facts, strong heroines, and engaging storytelling that educates and entertains the reader simultaneously.

Night Hawk by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in the 1870s, following the journey of Maggie Freeman, a mixed-race orphan with a troubled past, and Ian Vance, a preacher and former bounty hunter. The plot revolves around their unlikely partnership as they navigate through Kansas and Wyoming, facing discrimination, danger, and a vigilante mob. The writing style is described as clever, well-paced, and laugh-out-loud funny, with a focus on the challenges and triumphs of the main characters as they find love and happiness amidst adversity.

'The Gaucho's Lady' by Genevieve Turner is a historical romance set in early 1900s Argentina and California. The story follows the journey of Eliana, a rich heiress from Argentina, who escapes an arranged marriage by pretending to be in a fake relationship with Juan, a Mexican American gaucho. As they travel from Argentina to California, Eliana learns about suffrage, women's rights, and worker's rights, while staying at radical women's communes along the way. explores themes of freedom, love, and empowerment as Eliana transitions from a sheltered heiress to a woman who takes control of her own destiny.

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.

'Indigo' by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance novel set during the darkest times in U.S. history, focusing on passion, love, hope, fear, faith, deception, and friendship. The story follows Hester Wyatt, a rescued slave living as a free woman in Michigan, who becomes involved in the underground railroad. When she takes in a wounded fellow member known as The Black Daniel, her life takes a dramatic turn. The book beautifully combines romance with real history, providing accurate historical references and weaving in details about the Underground Railroad. The characters, especially Galen and Hester, are strong, well-developed, and their relationship is engaging and captivating.

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.

'Summer Chaparral' in the series 'Las Morenas' by author Genevieve Turner is a historical romance set in Southern California, depicting the tensions between different factions during that time period. The story follows the journey of Jace, a hardworking man looking for a job and a place to buy a ranch, who is forced to marry Catarina, a woman with a manipulative streak. As the two navigate their forced marriage and secrets that can potentially destroy them, they must confront the bigotry, resentment, and systemic racism that pervades their society.

Turner's writing style is praised for its realism, showcasing both the beauty and grit of the setting. The story is filled with forgiveness, goodness, generosity, and hospitality, juxtaposed with themes of fear, littleness of spirit, and evil. Through the characters of Jace and Catarina, the author weaves a tale of understanding, love, and hope, emphasizing the triumph of these emotions in the face of historical animosities and personal challenges.

A Duke in Disguise by Cat Sebastian tells the story of Ash, a talented artist and engraver, who is hopelessly in love with his childhood friend Verity Plum, a printer and publisher. Their fiercely held principles and the revelation of Ash's hidden lineage as the heir to a dukedom create friction between them. The book is set in a Regency period with well-researched historical details, an exciting mystery involving the missing heir to a dukedom, and a strong cast of characters devoted to each other.

Ana Maria and the Fox by Liana De la Rosa is a historical romance debut set against the backdrop of Napoleon's occupation of Mexico and the Civil War in the US. The story follows Ana Maria, a Mexican heiress sent to live in London along with her sisters after the fall of Mexico to the French. As the eldest sister, Ana Maria is used to striving to be the perfect daughter and this trip to London will be the first time she's been able to able to get out of her father's controlling grip. The plot unfolds with Ana Maria and Gideon, a member of British parliament, navigating their growing attraction amidst political issues, societal expectations, and personal sacrifices. The writing style is described as beautiful, discussing heavy topics while making readers fall head over heels for the couple and other characters.