Books Like...

'Silk and Shadows' by Mary Jo Putney is a historical romance novel set in Victorian England, focusing on the relationship between Lady Sara St. James, an English noblewoman, and Prince Peregrine, a prince from Kafiristan seeking revenge on an English aristocrat, Charles Weldon. The story delves into themes of vengeance, romance, and societal issues such as brothels, slavery, and the consequences of personal vendettas. The writing style includes elements of fast-paced storytelling, intriguing character development, and emotive scenes that evoke both admiration and criticism from readers.

In 1730, Alec Kenleigh, a wealthy shipbuilder, is abducted, beaten, and sent to the American colonies as an indentured servant under the false identity of Cole Braden. Meanwhile, Cassie Blackwell, a strong-willed woman managing her family's Virginia plantation, purchases Cole out of compassion. As Cole proves himself to be honorable and well-educated, Cassie starts to question his reported crimes and helps him in his quest to prove his true identity and gain freedom. The story delves into themes of slavery, societal differences, and romance in the 18th century, with a mix of suspense, drama, and historical detail.

The Shadow and the Star by Laura Kinsale is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Samuel and Leda as they navigate a complex relationship filled with trials and tribulations. Samuel, a martial arts trained hero with a troubled past, and Leda, a proper English woman facing adversity, find themselves entangled in a passionate yet hesitant romance. The book delves into themes of love, duty, trauma, and self-discovery, all set against a backdrop of Victorian society. Laura Kinsale's writing style is described as deep, intense, and thought-provoking, with complex characters and a compelling storyline that keeps readers engaged throughout the book.

The book follows the story of Celia Seaton and Tarquin Compton, who find themselves entangled in a series of events after being waylaid by thieves. Despite their initial dislike for each other, they embark on a journey together, navigating through humor, drama, and romance. The plot involves elements of amnesia, revenge, and unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged till the end. The writing style is described as humorous, endearing, and filled with witty encounters between the characters.

'Black Silk' by Judith Ivory follows the story of Submit Channing Downes, a widow tasked with delivering a black box to the notorious Earl of Netham, Graham Wessit. Their unexpected friendship and romance blossom amidst scandal and societal expectations. The characters, Graham and Submit, are richly flawed and complex, defying stereotypes and conventions of the genre. The plot delves into themes of identity, reputation, and self-discovery, with characters grappling with moral dilemmas and societal constraints.

Judith Ivory's writing style in 'Black Silk' is dense and detailed, painting a vivid picture of Victorian society and its complexities. The author skillfully weaves a narrative filled with intriguing characters and metatextual convolutions, challenging genre conventions and unraveling fictions within fictions. The story explores the depths of human nature, portraying characters who evolve and grow amidst personal struggles and societal expectations.

'The Prince of Midnight' by Laura Kinsale is a historical romance set in the Georgian era, where two tortured souls, S.T. Maitland and Lady Leigh Strachan, intertwine in a complex tale of love and revenge. The book follows their journey as they navigate their past traumas and emotional walls to find solace and connection with each other. The plot involves a unique role reversal where Leigh is portrayed as cold and bent on revenge, while S.T. is depicted as a romantic and sensitive character, creating a compelling dynamic between the protagonists.

The author, Laura Kinsale, expertly weaves a story filled with layers of emotions, deep character development, and intricate relationships. Through her writing style, Kinsale creates multi-dimensional characters that resonate with readers, evoking empathy and understanding for their struggles and desires. The book explores themes of loneliness, love, and healing, all set against a backdrop of historical romance and adventure.

Bound by Your Touch by Meredith Duran is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Lydia and Sanburne, two characters with complex backgrounds and strong personalities. The plot revolves around their initial antagonistic relationship, which gradually evolves into respect and fascination for each other. The book is filled with witty dialogue, underlying mystery, danger, and family drama, all of which serve to fully flesh out the characters and their relationship. The writing style is described as engaging, less heavy than other works by the author, and almost lyrical in nature, reminiscent of authors like Laura Kinsale and Jo Goodman.

'And Then He Kissed Her' by Laura Lee Guhrke is a historical romance set in late Victorian London that follows the story of Emma, a strong-willed and independent woman working in publishing, and Marlow, a charming but commitment-phobic lord and publisher. The plot revolves around Emma's journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she navigates societal expectations and her growing feelings for Marlow. The book is filled with witty dialogue, adorable banter, and a refreshing take on the employer-employee romance trope, creating a heartwarming and romantic tale that captures the emotional growth and love story of the characters.

'To Have and To Hold' by Patricia Gaffney follows the story of Sebastian Verlaine, a rake and magistrate, who hires Rachel Wade as his housekeeper to keep her out of gaol, but also makes it clear that she is to serve as his mistress. Rachel, who has just served ten years for murdering her abusive husband, is destitute in Victorian England. delves into the uncomfortable and dark circumstances surrounding their relationship, including non-consensual sex and the journey of both characters towards redemption and love. The author's writing style emphasizes the inner struggles and growth of both Sebastian and Rachel, making their character work compelling and intense.

Luck Be a Lady by Meredith Duran is a captivating historical romance novel that follows the story of Catherine Everleigh, a talented woman who must marry in order to secure her inheritance of the family auction house. Facing threats from her deceitful brother, Catherine enters a marriage of convenience with Nicholas O'Shea, a crime lord with a mysterious past. As their relationship evolves from a strategic alliance to a passionate romance, they must navigate through familial betrayals, unexpected dangers, and societal prejudices. The book intricately weaves together themes of love, trust, independence, and redemption, creating a compelling narrative with deep emotions and engaging character development.

The plot of Luck Be a Lady unfolds with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers eagerly turning the pages while savoring the evolving romance between Catherine and Nick. The writing style is praised for its depth and maturity, avoiding cliches and focusing on genuine character interactions and growth. Through the lens of a marriage of convenience, the book explores themes of social mismatch, familial conflicts, and personal ambitions, delivering a story that is both satisfying and emotionally resonant.