Books Like...
'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.
If you liked Wild Rain, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
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.
Preparing dinner in the kitchen of the whorehouse where she worked as the cook, Maggie Freeman decided she’d had enough. If the owner, Hugh Langley, tried to force himself upon her again, she’d have t... - #2
'A Chance at Love' by Beverly Jenkins follows the story of Loreli Winters, a strong and independent woman who unexpectedly becomes a mail-order bride for the sake of two young girls who want her as their mother. Loreli's journey intertwines with Jake Reed, the uncle of the girls, who initially resists the idea of Loreli becoming a part of their lives. As their relationship develops, both Loreli and Jake navigate through challenges, love, and self-discovery, creating a pure and heartwarming romance. portrays Loreli as a determined and kind-hearted character, while Jake's struggle with his feelings for her adds depth to the story, making it a captivating read.
As Loreli Winters stood listening to the farmer bending her ear, she wondered how much longer she would have to endure before she could politely excuse herself and slip away. The farmer’s name was Hen... - #3
"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.
It was one of the most dreaded words in cattle ranching, and Jessi didn’t need to hear it twice. Jumping out of bed while her father went off to rouse the others, the dark-skinned woman threw off her ... - #4
In "The Devil Comes Courting," readers are introduced to Grayson Hunter, a biracial Black man facing racism in a white-controlled world, and Amelia Smith, an Asian woman struggling to find her identity in a society that tries to suppress her roots. The story follows their journey of healing and self-discovery as they come together to work on creating a Chinese telegraphic code in Shanghai. Set in the 1870s, the book beautifully weaves themes of grief, guilt, racism, and cultural identity, while also exploring the historical context of Western imperialism and the challenges faced by its victims.
It was midsummer in tea-trading season, yet Captain Grayson Hunter had not come to Fuzhou for tea. Tea was the treasure of traders with small aspirations—those who wished only to build fortunes throug... - #5
'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.
- #6
'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.
- #7
A Caribbean Heiress in Paris is a unique historical romance that takes readers on a journey through different locations such as Paris and Scotland. The book introduces diverse and fleshed out characters, including a strong and independent heroine from the Caribbean and a charming hero from Scotland. The plot revolves around a marriage of convenience between the main characters, Luz Alana and Evan, as they navigate challenges related to their businesses and personal lives. The writing style is described as lush, authentic, and creative, with the author skillfully addressing themes like misogyny, racism, and slavery in a historical setting.
- #8
Set in New York City's Gilded Age, "The Prince of Broadway" by Joanna Shupe follows the forbidden love story between an uptown girl, Florence Greene, and a downtown boy, Clayton Madden. Florence, a risk-taker and gambler, defies societal norms by aspiring to open a casino for women. Seeking mentorship, she approaches Clayton, the owner of a successful gambling house, unaware of his hidden revenge plans against her father. As their attraction grows, Clayton must choose between his thirst for revenge and his feelings for Florence, leading to a complex and passionate relationship. The book is described as a historical romance with sensual scenes, intriguing side characters, and a unique take on the traditional happy ending.
Clayton Madden stood in a back room inside his casino, scowling at the man kneeling on the carpet. Tears and snot leaked all over the man’s face, his pleas for mercy echoing off the bare plaster walls...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Uptown Girls ) - #9
'The Promise of Jenny Jones' by Maggie Osborne is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Jenny Jones, a strong and determined heroine who narrowly escapes a firing squad in Mexico by promising to take a dying woman's daughter to California. Throughout the journey, Jenny faces dangers, meets new characters like the cowboy Ty Sanders, and experiences a range of emotions, from laughter to heart-wrenching moments. The plot is filled with action, humor, and poignant scenes, making it a captivating read for fans of Western romance.
Turning to the window, Jenny caught a glimpse through the iron bars of the bored-looking Mexican officials rehearsing the firing squad. A light shudder tiptoed down her spine, and she wiped sweating p... - #10
In At His Lady's Command, readers are taken on a journey through a steamy regency novella where a bodyguard, Captain Randall Denham, protects Lady Portia Butler, leading to a deep romance filled with passion and sacrifice. The book delves into themes of independence, societal expectations, and the complexities of relationships set against the backdrop of the Regency era. Through witty banter, scorching romance, and poignant moments, Nicola Davidson weaves a tale of love, loyalty, and overcoming societal constraints.