Books Like...
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.
If you liked An Extraordinary Union, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'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 The book beautifully combines romance with real history, providing accurate historical references and weaving in details about the Underground Railroad.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.
Three loud thumps echoed through the floor beneath Hester's feet—a signal that her guests had finally arrived. She quickly moved aside the rocker, positioned as always in front of the big bay window, ... - #2
Save: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.
Ailey woke with the first hint of daylight, blinking up at the sky in disbelief. It took a moment before she had enough command of her muscles to sit up. Though she couldn’t see any stones now, she ha... - #3
Save:Alexis, the protagonist of 'The Captain's Lady' by Jo Goodman, starts her life in the rough streets of London and through a series of events becomes a captain seeking revenge for her family's murder. The book follows her journey as she navigates the high seas, facing challenges and dangers while pursuing justice. The writing style is described as suspenseful, well-crafted, and engaging, with a plot that keeps the readers guessing and characters that are both strong and vulnerable.
Alexis feigned sleep when she heard her sisters coming up the stairs and didn’t utter a sound as they crawled into bed beside her, pushing her out in the process. Ignoring their titters and giggles, s... - #4
Save:A grad student, Naledi Smith, receives mysterious emails claiming she is betrothed to an African prince, Thabiso. As they meet, a romance blossoms, amidst Naledi's scientific pursuits and Thabiso's fantasy of his lost betrothed. The book cleverly plays on the secret prince trope, with Naledi's career remaining a priority throughout. The plot includes themes of identity, romance, and a touch of mystery, with a believable and engaging romance between Naledi and Thabiso. The writing style is described as fun, quirky, and enjoyable to read, with a good mix of geek, science, and knowledge presented in a contemporary international romance setting.
I hope that my letter finds you well. I, Likotsi Adelele, assistant to His Royal Highness, have sought you out high and low over the last few months, at the behest of the most exalted—and most curious... - #5
Save:'Surrender' by Pamela Clare is a historical romance set during the French and Indian wars in colonial America. The story follows Iain MacKinnon, falsely accused of murder, as he forms a Rangers unit with his brothers under the British army. Alongside this, Scottish Lady Annie Campbell, sold into indenture in the Colonies, crosses paths with Iain and is rescued by him from hostile Indians. The narrative weaves together themes of honor, sacrifice, love, and survival in a vividly described historical setting. The author skillfully incorporates historical details and accurate depictions of daily life, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience.
Lady Anne Burness Campbell huddled in the corner of the dank gaol cell, shivering. Tears streamed down her already tearstained cheeks, though she did not notice them. Her eyes stared unseeing into the... - #6
Save:'The Lotus Palace' by Jeannie Lin is a historical romance mystery set in Tang dynasty China, featuring complex and nuanced characters. The story revolves around Yue ying, a former child sex worker, who is determined to save her sister from being wrongly convicted of a crime. The book weaves together a captivating murder mystery with a slow-building romance between Yue ying and nobleman Bai Huang, set against a backdrop of richly detailed historical setting peopled with diverse characters. The writing style immerses the reader in a forgotten time, bringing to life the world of courtesans and scholars in Tang Dynasty China with vivid descriptions of the era's cultural details.
ANUNSEENFORCE threw Yue-ying from her pallet. The entire building shook around her and the rafters groaned until she was certain the Lotus Palace was going to be torn apart. Too startled to move, she ... - #7
Save:'Forbidden' by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in the Old West, following the story of Eddy Carmichael, a strong black woman on a journey to fulfill her dream of opening a restaurant in San Francisco. Along the way, she encounters Rhine Fontaine, a wealthy man passing as white, who saves her after a series of misfortunes. The plot delves into themes of identity, race, and the challenges faced by interracial relationships in the post-Civil War era. The writing style is described as engaging, with a slow burn romance that gradually builds, allowing for a deeper connection to the characters and their community.
“Stop him!” Eddy Carmichael screamed, scrambling to her feet from the mud. The man who’d snatched her purse and shoved her down was now running away down the dark Denver street. Taking off in pursuit,... - #8
Save:Destiny's Embrace by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in late 19th century California, featuring the story of Mariah, a strong-willed housekeeper escaping a troubled past, and Logan Yates, a stubborn ranch owner. The book explores themes of overcoming abuse, finding inner strength, and navigating a complex romantic relationship amidst historical and cultural nuances of the time. Jenkins skillfully weaves together a tale of passion, resilience, and growth, with fully developed characters and a captivating setting.
Alanza Yates stood in the cool morning air on the verandah of her rancho and gazed out at the vast green landscape. Off in the distance, near the tree line that bordered the rising mountains, horses a... - #9
Save:Rebel by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in post-Civil War New Orleans, focusing on a schoolteacher, Valinda, who faces challenges as she tries to educate freed slaves. The book delves into themes of racism, sexism, and violence, while also exploring the romantic relationship between Valinda and Drake LeVeq, a member of a wealthy family who aids her in rebuilding her school. Readers appreciate the historical and cultural details woven into the story, as well as the strong and appealing characters who navigate the complexities of the time period.
Twenty-eight-year-old Valinda Lacy greeted her fifteen students with a smile as they filed into her classroom. Due to New Orleans’s post-war chaos, she was teaching out of an old barn a few miles from... - #10
Save:Talk Sweetly to Me by Courtney Milan is a novella from the Brothers Sinister series that focuses on the charming and witty Stephen Shaughnessy and the brilliant mathematician Rose Sweetly. The plot revolves around their developing relationship, tackling societal issues such as racism and women's rights, while showcasing Milan's unique storytelling style that combines romance with discussions on important topics like interracial relations and love.
THERE WAS NO WAY FOR Miss Rose Sweetly to set down her packages. All six of them were balanced precariously under one arm while her free hand fumbled through her pocket. Her fingers encountered used p...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Brothers Sinister )
