Books Like...
'The Duke's Wager' by Edith Layton follows the story of Regina, an innocent yet remarkably bright heroine who finds herself chased by two manipulative and deceitful men, Jason and John. Jason, the Duke of Torquay, plans to manipulate Regina's life to make her his until he tires of her, while John, the Marquis of Bessacarr, pretends to protect her but aims to seduce her. As the plot unfolds, Regina is forced to make difficult decisions and navigate the manipulative intentions of these two cads, ultimately leading to a dramatic climax where the characters' backgrounds and motivations are revealed.
The writing style of the book includes elements of intrigue and transformation, with a focus on character development and redemption. Through the interactions between Regina, Jason, and John, the story explores themes of good versus evil, manipulation, and the complexities of human relationships, culminating in a narrative that delves into the characters' pasts and motivations, leading to a transformative and dramatic conclusion.
If you liked The Duke's Wager, here are the top 19 books to read next:
- #1
Save:Then Comes Seduction is the second book in the Huxtable series by Mary Balogh, following the story of Katherine Huxtable and Jasper Finley, Baron Montford. The plot revolves around a wager made by Jasper to seduce Katherine, leading to unexpected consequences and a forced marriage. The writing style is praised for being typical of Mary Balogh, with well-developed characters and a blend of romance, humor, and Regency era charm.
J A S P E R Finley, Baron Montford, was twenty- five years old. Today was his birthday, in fact. At least, he amended mentally as he loosened the knot in his neckcloth with one hand while the other da...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Huxtable Quintet ) - #2
Save:'His Lordship's Mistress' by Joan Wolf is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Jessica, a strong-willed heroine who, after being financially ruined, decides to become the mistress of the Earl of Linton to secure her family's future. The book portrays Jessica's journey of making difficult decisions, facing societal judgments, and ultimately finding love in unexpected places. The writing style captures the emotional depth of the characters, explores themes of duty and responsibility, and delves into the complexities of relationships in a historical setting.
Two weeks after her stepfather was buried, Jessica Andover sat in the mellow, panelled library of Winchcombe listening to her lawyer detail the state of her affairs. They were not good. In fact, they ... - #3
Save:'One is a Promise' in the 'Tangled Lies' series by Pam Godwin is a captivating love story that delves into the complexities of relationships and emotional turmoil. The plot follows Danni, a dancer who is navigating through grief and loss after the death of her fiancé, Cole. As she tries to move on with her life, she is drawn into a tumultuous relationship with Trace, a billionaire casino owner, leading to a love triangle that tests her heart and loyalties. The writing style is described as emotionally intense, with well-developed characters and a plot full of twists and turns that keep readers engaged and invested in the story.
My hands shake so badly the lip gloss slips from my fingers and clatters in the bathroom sink. Dammit, the doorbell’s going to ring any second, and I’m wracked with jitters. And other things. The horr... - #4
Save:Aurora Dayne, an orphan, unwittingly gets involved in her own kidnapping orchestrated by Vashon, a pirate seeking the Star of Aran, a legendary treasure stolen by Aurora's father. Vashon, the Viscount Blackwell, is on a quest for revenge against his murderous half brother who stole his rightful title. The book features a strong alpha hero, a tremulous virgin heroine, pirates, treasures, voyages to the New World, and a romance that evolves from resistance to love. The plot includes a secondary romance between Vashon's friend and a woman Aurora meets on the ship. The writing style is reminiscent of old-fashioned bodice ripper romances, with prose filled with flowery phrases and a dark, tortured hero matched by a strong heroine.
Taking a deep breath, Aurora could hardly hide her anxiety as she looked past the main deck of the Seabravery toward the river Thames. It was barely noon and they were still moored at Queenhithe Dock,... - #5
Save:Simply Love by Catherine Anderson is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Luke Taggart, a wealthy and troubled man, and Cassandra Zerek, a sweet and innocent young woman. Luke, who has a dark past, is determined to possess Cassie at any cost, manipulating and hurting those around her in the process. Despite Luke's flaws, Cassie's unconditional love and innocence start to change him, leading to a journey of redemption and self-discovery. The book beautifully portrays the transformation of a ruthless man into a caring individual, all while exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and growth in a mining town setting.
It was the devil’s own afternoon. Black clouds gathered over the teeth-sharp peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and an angry wind from the north drove gusts against the buildings. Locked into his own thoug... - #6
Save:'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 ... - #7
Save:"Thoughtless" by S.C. Stephens follows the story of Kiera, who moves to Seattle with her boyfriend Denny and ends up living with Denny's friend, the rock star Kellan Kyle. The plot revolves around a love triangle between Kiera, Denny, and Kellan, showcasing themes of love, obsession, indecisiveness, and betrayal. The writing style is described as evoking strong emotions, particularly frustration and empathy towards the characters, with intense and steamy scenes that keep readers engaged throughout the story.
It was the longest drive I had ever been on. That really wasn’t saying a whole lot, since I had never driven more than sixty miles away from my hometown. Still, by anyone’s standards, the drive was ab... - #8
Save:'Transcend' by Jewel E. Ann is a contemporary romance novel that delves into themes of souls, reincarnation, memories, and love transcending time. The story follows the protagonist, Swayze, as she navigates a complex love triangle between her boyfriend, Griffin, and Nate, a widowed man with whom she shares uncanny memories from a past life. The writing style is described as excellent, with suspense, intrigue, and emotional depth that keeps readers captivated and invested in the characters' journeys.
Nevaeh. It’s Heaven spelled backwards and the name of the girl to my right with her finger five stories up her nose. I grimace while readjusting in my chair. It has nothing to do with her disgusting h... - #9
Save:More Than a Mistress by Mary Balogh is the first book in the Mistress trilogy, telling the story of Jane Ingleby who crosses paths with the Duke of Tresham during a duel, leading to a series of events where she becomes his nurse and eventually his mistress. The book explores the evolving relationship between Jane and Jocelyn, highlighting their challenges, secrets, and the deepening bond between them. Balogh's writing style weaves a tale of friendship, love, and character growth, set against a backdrop of tension and passion.
The two gentlemen who were in their shirt sleeves despite the brisk chill of a spring morning were about to blow each others brains out. Or attempt to do so, at least. They were standing on a secluded... - #10
Save:"One True Loves" by Taylor Jenkins Reid tells the emotional story of Emma, who loses her husband Jesse in a helicopter crash, only to find out years later that he is alive. Emma had moved on with a new love, Sam, but now she is faced with a heart-wrenching choice between her past and present loves. The book explores themes of love, grief, growth, and self-discovery through Emma's journey of making a difficult decision between two true loves. Reid's writing style is described as raw, engaging, and emotional, with a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers hooked from the beginning.
It is my father’s sixty-fourth birthday. He is wearing his favorite sweater, a hunter green cashmere one that my older sister, Marie, and I picked out for him two years ago. I think that’s why he love...
