Books Like...
The Sandalwood Princess by Loretta Chase is a Regency romance novel set in an exotic location, featuring a mix of romance, mystery, adventure, and scheming. The story revolves around the heroine, Amanda Cavencourt, who receives a figurine called the Sandalwood Princess from her mentor, Rani Simhi. This gift sets off an adventure involving a notorious thief named Falcon, leading to unexpected twists and turns in the plot. Despite some editing issues in the Kindle version, readers found the book engaging with fascinating characters and a feminist tone.
If you liked The Sandalwood Princess, here are the top 29 books to read next:
- #1
'Knaves' Wager' by Loretta Chase follows the story of Julian, a charming yet manipulative man who enters into a wager to seduce a virtuous woman. Despite his initial confidence, the wager leads him down unexpected paths, challenging his perceptions and ultimately changing him in unforeseen ways. The plot is cleverly crafted, with heartbreaking scenes and characters who undergo significant growth and self-reflection throughout the story. The slow and realistic development of the romance between Julian and Lilith, along with witty dialogue and excellent chemistry, makes them a perfectly matched couple by the end of the novel.
It was late March 1814. On the Continent, Buonaparte's once-great Empire lay in smoking ruins about him, his Grand Army reduced to a handful of ragged, starved boys. Yet the Corsican clung stubbornly ... - #2
An evocative story set in early 19th century Albania, 'The Lion's Daughter' by Loretta Chase is a historical fiction that delves into a world controlled by the Ottoman Empire yet still holding onto its Illyrian roots. The plot follows the journey of Esme, a fierce half-English, half-Albanian girl, and Lord Varian, a penniless nobleman, as they navigate through political intrigue, personal growth, and unexpected love in a beautifully researched and nuanced setting.
The book presents a rich and complex narrative with multiple plot twists set across different countries, showcasing the characters' growth and evolving motives. The relationship between Esme and Varian is portrayed authentically, with both characters accepting and loving each other without the desire for change, leading to a compelling and captivating story filled with adventure and exceptional character interactions.
VARIAN ST. GEORGE STOOD AT THE TERRACE wall and gazed across the water. The sea breeze lolled lazily about him, scarcely ruffling the gleaming dark curls at his forehead. Like a sea of blue flame unde... - #3
'Captives of the Night' by Loretta Chase is a historical romance novel that delves into a murder mystery plot, set ten years after the events of the previous book in the series. The story follows the characters Ismal and Leila as they navigate a complex web of conspiracy, betrayal, and secrets while trying to uncover the truth behind a murder. The book is praised for its well-drawn characters, intriguing plot, and the development of a passionate yet tumultuous relationship between the protagonists.
Francis shrugged. "Surely Madame Vraisses' portrait can wait a few minutes. The Comte d'Esmond is perishing to meet you, my precious. He admires your work." He took her hand. "Come, don't be cross. Ju...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Scoundrels ) - #4
In Last Night's Scandal, Olivia and Lisle, two childhood friends from the Carsington Family quartet, reunite after ten years. Olivia, a scandalous and impulsive young woman, convinces Lisle, a practical and honorable man, to accompany her on an adventure to Scotland to banish ghosts and restore a castle. Their journey is filled with witty banter, romantic tension, and a treasure hunt, all set against the backdrop of their evolving friendship into something more adult. Loretta Chase's writing style combines humor, romance, and vivid descriptions to bring to life the charming and unconventional characters of Olivia and Lisle.
Tonight the Earl and Countess of Hargate were giving a ball in honor of the ninety-fifth birthday of Eugenia, Dowager Countess of Hargate, matriarch of the Carsington family. Lisle had returned from E...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Carsington Brothers ) - #5
Viscount Vagabond by Loretta Chase is a delightful regency romance that follows the story of Catherine, a determined young woman who finds herself in a precarious situation in a bawdy house in London. Rescued by the charming yet roguish Viscount Rand, Catherine embarks on a journey filled with mishaps, balls, and miscommunication before finding her happily ever after. The plot unfolds with humor and twists, engaging readers with strong secondary characters and a clean, sweet romance that leaves much to the imagination.
The writing style in Viscount Vagabond is described as enchanting, humorous, and engaging, reminiscent of traditional regencies. Loretta Chase skillfully weaves a tale of love and redemption, with characters that are lovable and well-developed. The pacing of the story is excellent, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last, while the narration, particularly in the audio book version, brings the characters to life with distinct voices and a touch of humor.
Catherine Pelliston had never beheld a naked man before. She had never, in fact, observed a man in any state of undress, unless one counted the draped figures in Great Aunt Eustacia’s collection of cl... - #6
In "The English Witch" by Loretta Chase, the story revolves around Alexandra, a beautiful and quick-witted woman who finds herself in a difficult situation where she is being forced to marry a man she has no interest in due to her father's debts. She seeks help from her godmother, Aunt Clem, who sends her roguish nephew Basil to rescue her. The plot unfolds with Basil coming to Alexandra's aid, leading to a series of adventures in Albania and England, filled with romance, witty exchanges, and clever schemes to free Alexandra from her unwanted betrothal. The writing style of the book is described as amusing, clean, and with passionate kisses, set in the Regency era with engaging character dynamics and a focus on the growing romance between Alexandra and Basil.
It was called the "City of a Thousand Stairs." From a distance, the white stone houses with their elaborate red roof appeared to be carved out of the mountainside itself. They were white fairy stairs,... - #7
In "The Mad Earl's Bride" by Loretta Chase, readers are introduced to Dorian Camoys, Earl of Rawnsley, who is haunted by the fear of succumbing to the madness that plagued his family. Encouraged to marry and secure the Rawnsley bloodline, Dorian finds an unexpected ally in Gwendolyn Adams, a strong-willed woman with a passion for medicine. As they navigate the challenges of Dorian's illness and societal expectations, a deep bond forms between them, leading to a touching romance filled with loyalty, trust, and understanding.
Chase weaves a compelling tale of love, resilience, and redemption, set against the backdrop of 1800s England. The story delves into themes of mental health, familial legacy, and the power of companionship as Dorian and Gwen confront their fears and find solace in each other's company, ultimately proving that love can conquer even the darkest of shadows.
DORIAN STOOD IN the library of Radmore Manor, looking put the window. In the distance, the moors stretched out in all their bleak beauty. They beckoned to him as strongly now as they’d called to his s...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Scoundrels ) - #8
Miss Wonderful by Loretta Chase is a historical romance novel set in the Carsington Brothers series. The story follows the relationship between Alistair Carsington, a war hero looking to build a canal, and Mirabel Oldridge, a headstrong heiress who opposes his plans. The book is praised for its witty dialogues, interesting characters, and the unique setting of Derbyshire. The plot revolves around the conflict between Alistair and Mirabel as they navigate their attraction and differing opinions on the canal project.
Though Miss Oldridge had recently passed her thirty-first birthday, she didn't look it. At the moment—her red-gold hair windblown, her creamy cheeks rosy, and her blue eyes sparkling from exercise—she... - #9
'A Duke in Shining Armor' by Loretta Chase follows the story of Lady Olympia Hightower, known as the Most Boring Debutante, who decides to escape her wedding to the Duke of Ashmont after he shows up drunk. The Duke of Ripley, tasked with ensuring a smooth wedding, chases after her, leading to a series of comedic mishaps during their journey. The book is filled with witty banter, stolen kisses, and a captivating romance that develops between Olympia and Ripley as they embark on an unexpected adventure.
The novel is a delightful blend of historical romance and comedy of errors, with vividly written scenes that evoke laughter and joy. The dynamic between the characters, especially Ripley and Olympia, is brilliantly executed, showcasing the author's talent for crafting engaging dialogues and building palpable sexual tension. As the journey progresses, Olympia and Ripley discover hidden depths within themselves and each other, leading to a transformation that defies societal conventions and expectations.
Elaborate side curls of a commonplace brown framed her heart-shaped face. An intricate arrangement of plaits, topped by a great blossom of pleated lace adorned with orange blossoms, crowned her head. ... - #10
'Mr. Impossible' by Loretta Chase is an adventurous romance set in Egypt during the early 19th century. The story follows Lady Daphne Pembroke, a brilliant scholar posing as her brother to pursue her passion for ancient Egyptian writing. When her brother is kidnapped, she enlists the help of Rupert Carsington, a reckless and charming adventurer, to rescue him. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey filled with danger, intrigue, and romance. The book combines elements of humor, excitement, and historical mystery, creating a swashbuckling tale reminiscent of classic adventure films like 'The Mummy'.
Outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, 2 April 1821 THANKS TO HIS MOTHER, RUPERT CARSINGTON had hair and eyes as dark as any Egyptian’s. This did not mean he blended in with the crowd on the bridge. In the first ...