Books Like...
Dowager Duchess Alexandra, a middle-aged widow seeking independence, finds herself entangled with Theo Osborne, a younger man and potential suitor for her daughter. Their one-night stand leads to unexpected consequences as they navigate complex relationships and conflicting desires. Megan Frampton's 'His Study in Scandal' from the School for Scoundrels series is a steamy romance filled with passion, suspense, and strong female characters.
If you liked His Study in Scandal, here are the top 8 books to read next:
- #1
'Clandestine Passion' in the series 'The Lovelocks of London' by Felicity Niven is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Catherine Lovelock, a wealthy widow, and James Cavendish, Marquess of Daventry. The two main characters are drawn together despite their differences in age, rank, and background. Their romance is filled with obstacles and challenges, including past demons, present threats, and James' secret occupation. As they navigate their intense chemistry and attraction, they must confront societal rules and their own doubts about love and passion. The narrative is engaging, with well-developed characters and a mix of spice, intrigue, and depth that keeps readers hooked until the satisfying HEA.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Lovelocks of London ) - #2
Tru, the Cold Countess, finds herself in a loveless marriage with the Earl of Chatham, a debauched and controlling man. When her daughter, Delia, is pushed into an arranged marriage with Jasper Thorne by the Earl, Tru's carefully maintained reputation is at risk as she develops unexpected feelings for Jasper. The book explores themes of adultery, complex relationships, and societal expectations in a historical romance setting. Sophie Jordan's writing style weaves a tale of strong female characters, respect, and progressive ideals, creating a story that is both scandalous and captivating.
- #3
'A Promise of Spring' by Mary Balogh follows the story of Grace Howard, a woman who has endured past tragedies and is left destitute after her brother's death. Perry, her brother's best friend, offers to marry her to prevent her from falling into poverty. Despite the age difference and initial reservations, their marriage of convenience evolves into a passionate and true love match. The story delves into themes of grief, healing, and the complexities of relationships, set against the backdrop of London society and the couple's old estate.
The plot unfolds with Grace and Perry navigating their insecurities and past traumas while dealing with external conflicts, such as the presence of an arrogant and manipulative antagonist named Gareth. The writing style of Mary Balogh is described as gentle and emotional, with discreet yet impactful love scenes that contribute to the overall romantic atmosphere of the narrative.
"We will walk down by the river," he said. "We have a great deal to say to each other, Grace, and if your mood of last week prevails, we may well wish to raise our voices and even our fists. The terra... - #4
"Someone to Trust" by Mary Balogh is a historical romantic fiction that centers around the characters Lady Elizabeth Overfield and Lord Colin Handrich. The story unfolds at a Christmas gathering where the two characters meet and develop a deep friendship despite the significant age difference between them. As they navigate society's opinions and their own doubts, their relationship evolves into a slow-burning romance filled with trust, companionship, and mutual support. The plot delves into themes of family ties, trust, and the challenges of finding love in a society where age differences are frowned upon.
Brambledean Court in Wiltshire was the scene of just such a gathering for the first time in many years. All the Westcotts were gathered there, from Eugenia, the seventy-one-year-old Dowager Countess o...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Westcott ) - #5
"The Scandal of It All" by Sophie Jordan follows the story of Graciela, the Duchess of Autenberry, and Colin, Lord Strickland. Graciela, a widowed duchess, decides to explore a different side of life and ends up in a compromising situation at a club. Colin, who has always harbored feelings for Graciela, comes to her rescue, leading to a forbidden romance between the two characters. The plot explores themes of age-gap romance, societal expectations, and the complexities of family relationships. Sophie Jordan's descriptive writing style brings to life the aristocratic setting, the passionate romance, and the unexpected twists in the story, making it a captivating and entertaining read.
delves into the emotional journey of Graciela and Colin as they navigate their forbidden love amidst societal norms and family dynamics. Their relationship faces obstacles and challenges, but as they slowly break down each other's walls, a beautiful connection forms between them. Readers are taken on a journey of passion, secrets, and unexpected revelations, as Graciela and Colin explore the depths of their feelings and desires. Overall, "The Scandal of It All" is a compelling historical romance that intricately weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery in a captivating narrative.
The black-garbed ladies mingled through the room like bobbing crows, pecking at the food on their tiny plates with the same vigor with which they prattled about the recent demise of Lady Vanderhall, n...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Rogue Files ) - #6
One night of passion connects two strangers, even when their true identities are revealed the next day. Leela, a young widow and author, finds herself entangled in a scandalous affair with Huntington, a handsome Duke who struggles between societal expectations and his love for her. Their forbidden romance leads to a series of obstacles, including Hunt's engagement to Leela's stepdaughter, creating a scandal that threatens two respected families. Despite their efforts to resist, Leela and Hunt are drawn together by undeniable passion and love, navigating through high stakes and societal norms to be together.
We follow the story of Leela, a strong and independent young woman who defies societal norms, and Hunt, a passionate Duke torn between duty and desire. Their intense and emotional journey is filled with angst, drama, and steamy scenes, as they struggle to overcome obstacles and societal expectations to be together against all odds. The book also sheds light on themes of independence, racism, and the challenges faced by female writers in a male-dominated society, adding depth to the characters and their evolving relationship.
Calamity appeared in the form of a rain-soaked female clad in a simple white gown. The thin fabric was plastered to every considerable curve of her womanly form. She surfaced at the same ramshackle in... - #7
'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.
Summer in London lay heavy on the city streets, the heat stifling and the atmosphere still and thick. As Duncan walked through Mayfair, the urge to remove his hat and loosen the pleats of his neckclot...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Union of the Rakes ) - #8
A lush, romantic story of a retired courtesan, Coco Wild, who falls in love with a younger man, James Stoker, known as England's hero after returning from Africa. The plot revolves around James pursuing Coco despite societal expectations, their deep and complex love story, and the challenges they face due to their unconventional relationship. The writing style is described as engaging, with well-developed lead characters and a satisfying love story that delves into themes of independence, societal norms, and historical context.
James Stoker, or rather—he liked to remind himself—Sir James Stoker these days, dashed between horses and carriages, finally leaping a puddle to get himself across a busy London street. The street, Bl...