Books Like...

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.

'Wild Rain' by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance novel set in the American West in the mid-nineteenth century. The story follows the independent and strong-willed heroine, Spring Lee, who rescues Garrett McCray during a blizzard. Their initial encounter leads to a complex relationship filled with challenges stemming from their different backgrounds and outlooks on life. Through well-developed characters and authentic historical details, the book explores themes of love, independence, and personal growth, all set against the backdrop of the Wyoming Territory.

'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.

'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.

"The Taming of Jessi Rose" by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance set in the old west frontier days of Texas. The story follows Jessi Rose Clayton, a fierce and determined woman who is fighting to protect her family ranch from a powerful and greedy man, Reed Darcy. When Griffin Blake, a former train robber turned honorable marshal, comes to her aid, their partnership leads to a blossoming romance amidst danger and intrigue. is praised for its strong heroine, engaging plot, and diverse cast of characters, including the comedic duo of Neil July and Two Shanks.

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.

'To Catch a Raven' by Beverly Jenkins is a historical romance novel set in New Orleans and other states. The story follows Raven Moreaux, a skilled con artist from a family of grifters, who is forced to work on a case for the government alongside Braxton Steele, a man with a hidden past. As they pose as a married couple to recover the Declaration of Independence, their initial animosity transforms into a passionate romance filled with action, adventure, trickery, and espionage. The book expertly weaves historical references, laughter, and captivating storytelling, making it an engrossing read that is both contemplative and hopeful.

'Waiting for a Scot Like You' by Eva Leigh is the third book in the 'Union of the Rakes' series and follows the journey of Duncan, a former military Scottish hero, and Beatrice, a widowed countess on a road trip adventure. The book explores their unlikely pairing, with Duncan being grumpy and adhering to tradition while Beatrice is a free-spirited older woman who enjoys her independence. As they embark on a journey filled with mishaps and intimate moments, the story delves into their evolving relationship and the challenges they face in reconciling their different desires for the future.

'Morning Comes Softly' by Debbie Macomber is a heartwarming story about a rancher named Travis Thompson who suddenly becomes the guardian of his brother's three children. Desperate for help, Travis puts an ad in the newspaper for a wife, leading to Mary Warner, a plain and brainy librarian, responding to the call. As Travis and Mary navigate their new life together, they face challenges in communication and understanding, all while raising the children and dealing with personal tragedies. The book explores themes of love, family, and second chances, with a modern-day twist on the classic Mail Order Bride story.

The author, Debbie Macomber, skillfully weaves a tale of a marriage of convenience turning into a deep and meaningful relationship between Travis and Mary. Through the ups and downs of their journey, the characters evolve, learn to communicate, and ultimately find love and acceptance within their unconventional family dynamic. Macomber's writing style captures the emotional nuances of the characters, creating a touching and uplifting story that resonates with readers.

'The Hidalgo's Wife' by Genevieve Turner is a historical romance novel set in 1820s California, focusing on the arranged marriage between a man from Arizona and a woman from Mexico City. The male protagonist, Alejandro, has strict and outdated views on marriage and women's roles, leading to tension and misunderstandings with his wife, Josefa. The story delves into their struggles, including Alejandro's hang-ups about sex and purity, Josefa's determination to assert herself, and their journey towards understanding and love amidst the political unrest in Mexico and the old west.