Books Like...
In 'The Beast of Beswick' by Amalie Howard, Lady Astrid Everleigh approaches Lord Nathaniel, known as the Beast of Beswick, in a desperate attempt to save her sister from a forced marriage. The story follows the development of trust and relationship between the main characters as they navigate through societal expectations and personal struggles. The writing style is described as engaging, with a blend of historical fiction and modern elements like feminism, creating a unique twist on the Beauty and the Beast story.
If you liked The Beast of Beswick, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:In "My Darling Duke" by Stacy Reid, readers are introduced to Alexander, a physically and emotionally scarred Duke who longs for love and companionship. Kitty, a strong-willed and unconventional woman, takes matters into her own hands by pretending to be his fiancée to secure a better future for her family. As their relationship develops, they navigate themes of vulnerability, deception, and acceptance, creating a unique and moving regency romance. The story combines elements of Beauty and the Beast, with a focus on the characters' personal growth and deep emotional connection, set against the backdrop of the ton's society and its expectations.
It was a concept wholly improbable to the Honourable Katherine Iphigenia Danvers—Kitty to her friends and family—but nevertheless she felt effortlessly captivated. Or perhaps the sinful plan burning w... - #2
Save:'When Beauty Tamed the Beast' by Eloisa James is a Regency romance novel that cleverly reimagines the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. The story follows Linnet Thrynne, a beautiful young woman whose reputation is tarnished by scandal, leading her to agree to marry Piers Yelverton, Earl of Marchant, a brilliant but grouchy doctor with a limp. As Linnet and Piers navigate their forced marriage, they discover similarities and differences that draw them closer together, all while dealing with family dynamics, medical mysteries, and witty banter reminiscent of a fairy tale romance.
The book is praised for its witty banter between the main characters, the engaging plot that blends romance with medical details, and the charming development of relationships not only between Linnet and Piers but also among the secondary characters. Eloisa James skillfully weaves together elements of humor, romance, and historical accuracy to create a delightful and entertaining read that captivates readers from beginning to end.
That sparkle makes it all the more sad that real women rarely live up to their fictional counterparts. They have yellowing teeth, or spotty skin. They have the shadow of a mustache, or a nose so big t... - #3
Save:In "To Beguile a Beast," the story revolves around Sir Alistair, a scarred recluse haunted by past traumas, and Helen, a woman seeking refuge from an abusive relationship with her two young children. As they navigate their complex emotions and vulnerabilities, they find solace and love in each other's company. The book captures themes of emotional healing, second chances at love, and the power of human connection amidst adversity.
It was as the carriage bumped around a bend and the decrepit castle loomed into view in the dusk that Helen Fitzwilliam finally—and rather belatedly—realized that the whole trip may’ve been a horrible...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Legend of the Four Soldiers ) - #4
Save:Anne Jewell, a favorite teacher at Miss Martin's School for Girls, is forced to confront the tragedies of the past in order to build a new life for herself and her son after she meets Sydnam Butler, a quiet and gentle hero of the Peninsular Wars. This 2nd installment in Balogh's Simply series is a beautiful, but slightly untraditional romance. Balogh at her best. The story delves into the lives of two imperfect people, Anne and Sydnam, who find solace and healing in each other's company despite their past traumas and societal judgments. The plot intricately weaves together their individual struggles, creating a multi-layered and emotionally touching narrative that explores themes of love, healing, and forgiveness.
The crocodile of schoolgirls neatly uniformed in dark blue that was making its way along Great Pulteney Street in Bath at the spanking pace set by Miss Susanna Osbourne, one of its teachers, was proce... - #5
Save:In "Romancing the Duke," Izzy Goodnight, a penniless and determined heroine, inherits a castle from her godfather, only to find the brooding and disfigured Duke of Rothbury, Ransom, still in residence. As the two clash over ownership of the castle, their mutual attraction grows, leading to a romance filled with humor, emotion, and sparring that defies their initial impressions of each other. The story unfolds with elements of fairy tales, humor, and a touch of realism, as Izzy and Ransom navigate their individual traumas and ultimately find love in a unique and entertaining way.
Because the name Isolde Ophelia Goodnight also suggested romance. Swooning, star-crossed, legendary romance. And for as long as she could remember, Izzy had been waiting—with dwindling faith and incre... - #6
Save:The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt is a historical romance novel set in the Georgian era. The story follows Anna Wren, a widow who takes on the role of a secretary for the scarred and grumpy Earl of Swartingham, Edward De Raaf. Despite their initial reservations and societal constraints, an unlikely attraction blossoms between the two as they navigate personal tragedies, societal expectations, and their growing feelings for each other. The book weaves a tale of love, lust, and overcoming obstacles in a time where reputation and propriety were paramount, all while incorporating elements of fairy tales and social commentary.
The combination of a horse galloping far too fast, a muddy lane with a curve, and a lady pedestrian is never a good one. Even in the best of circumstances, the odds of a positive outcome are depressin... - #7
Save: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... - #8
Save:"Duke in Darkness" by Nicola Davidson is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Colonel Gabriel Jordan Ives, who becomes the Duke of Exton due to an unfortunate twist of fate after the Peninsular war. Suffering from PTSD and physical scars, Gabriel is in need of a bride to fulfill his new title, leading to an arranged marriage with Lady Lilian Nash. Lilian, raised to become a duchess and burdened by her family's financial struggles, enters into the marriage out of duty. As Gabriel and Lilian navigate their past traumas and societal expectations, they strive for a more meaningful and loving relationship, tackling challenges and growing together. Davidson's writing style expertly weaves a tale of intimacy, authenticity, and historical details, creating a rich and enthralling narrative that delves into the complexities of love and healing.
Sounds filled the library at the Earl of Kingsford’s words—gasps and cries and a growl of rage bouncing between the dark wood panels, unread books, and woven rugs—but Lady Lilian Nash remained still a... - #9
Save:"Ravished" by Amanda Quick is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Harriet Pomeroy, a passionate fossil enthusiast, who seeks the help of Gideon Westbrook, Viscount St. Justin, known as the Beast of Blackthorne Hall, to protect her fossils from thieves. Despite Gideon's scarred appearance and dark past, Harriet is not afraid of him and they work together to solve the mystery of smugglers using her caves. As they face society's judgment and a dangerous villain, their relationship blossoms into a deep connection based on trust, devotion, and a true understanding of each other. combines elements of romance, mystery, and humor, with witty banter and charming characters that captivate the readers.
There were bones everywhere. Savagely grinning skulls, bleached ribs, and shattered femurs were scattered about like so much devil’s garbage. Chunks of stone with teeth and toes and other odd bits emb... - #10
Save:In "A Beastly Kind of Earl" by Mia Vincy, the story revolves around Thea Knight, an outcast seeking to restore her reputation by helping her sister elope with the son of a nobleman who ruined her name. The hero, Rafe, the Earl of Luxborough, scarred and reclusive, agrees to a marriage of convenience with Thea, both believing they are outsmarting the other. As they navigate their fake marriage, secrets are revealed, past traumas are confronted, and a slow-burn romance unfolds amidst intricate plotting and counterplotting. The writing style is described as witty, with clever banter between the characters, and a mix of romantic comedy and serious themes such as mental illness and social commentary.
First, mischief must be conducted only for a good cause—and certainly, Thea’s present mischief served no lesser cause than her younger sister’s happiness. For that excellent cause, she had resigned he...
