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The Boxer and the Blacksmith by Edie Cay is a historical romance novel set in 1818 London, Manchester, and Barbados. The story follows the lives of Bess, a female boxer, and Os, a blacksmith, as they navigate challenges related to gender, class, race, and family. The chemistry between Bess and Os is natural and compelling, drawing readers into their world of love and struggle. Cay's meticulous attention to detail and thorough research transport readers to a vividly depicted Regency England, where themes of gender, class, and race are skillfully interwoven with the romance and sports elements of the plot.

If you liked The Boxer and the Blacksmith, here are the top 74 books to read next:
(We also have 81 recommendations for the series: When The Blood Is Up)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 74 
  1. #1
    Broken Things
    Book 4 in the series:The Southwark Saga

    Broken Things - The Southwark Saga by Jessica Cale
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    Broken Things by Jessica Cale is a historical romance set in 17th century Southwark, London, following the love story between Meg, an innkeeper with a tumultuous past, and Jake, a Jewish prizefighter who has endured great losses. The book delves into themes of survival, discrimination, and love in a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in that era. The writing style is described as vivid, detailed, and immersive, bringing the historical setting to life with colorful dialogue and well-crafted characters.


  2. #2

    The Scoundrel Falls Hard - The Duke Hunt by Sophie Jordan
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    'The Scoundrel Falls Hard' in the series 'The Duke Hunt' by Sophie Jordan tells the story of Gwen, a blacksmith who saves a conman named Kellan from being hanged and ends up betrothed to him. As they navigate a marriage of convenience, filled with lies, dodgy relatives, and trust issues, Gwen and Kellan's relationship evolves from a platonic arrangement to a potential love match. The plot is fast-paced, with witty banter, believable character development, and steamy love scenes, leading to a satisfying happily ever after. The writing style captures the intrigue surrounding Gwen and Kellan's unconventional relationship, while also hinting at future storylines involving other characters in the series.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Duke Hunt )

  3. #3

    The Boxing Baroness - The Wicked Women of Whitechapel by Minerva Spencer
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    The Boxing Baroness, part of 'The Wicked Women of Whitechapel' series by Minerva Spencer, is a historical romance novel set in the Regency era. The story follows Marianne, the independent and strong-willed Boxing Baroness, who crosses paths with a noble Duke. The plot is filled with unexpected twists, intrigue, mystery, and romance. The characters, including misfits, dukes, spies, assassins, and a circus, navigate through turbulent times just before and during Napoleon's reign, creating an unsettled and dangerous backdrop for the story. The book is praised for its diverse and compelling characters, including the unique and well-rounded protagonist, Marianne.


  4. #4

    Dancing with Love - The Academy of Love by Minerva Spencer
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    "Dancing with Love" in the series "The Academy of Love" by Minerva Spencer is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Mary and Miles, two characters who are initially at odds but eventually develop a deep connection. The plot involves a marriage of convenience that leads to unexpected feelings and challenges for both protagonists. The writing style of the book is engaging, with surprise twists and turns, high intensity moments, and characters that are described as stealing the reader's heart.


  5. #5

    Carry the World by Susan Fanetti
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    'Carry the World' by Susan Fanetti is set in the 1930s during the Great Depression in Kentucky, focusing on Ada Donovan, a young widow who becomes a Kentucky Pack Horse librarian to support her family and bring books and literacy to the isolated mountain communities. Ada's encounters with families like the Walkers, especially Jonah and his two children, Elijah and Bluebird, highlight themes of love, family, overcoming adversity, and the resilience of people during difficult times. The story beautifully portrays the impact of the Pack Horse Librarian Project in connecting isolated communities and the emotional journey of Ada and Jonah as they navigate grief, love, and the challenges of their time.


  6. #6

    A Dream Defiant by Susanna Fraser
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    The novella 'A Dream Defiant' by Susanna Fraser follows the story of Elijah, a black soldier in the British army of 1813, and Rose, the widow of one of his fellow soldiers. When Rose's husband dies in battle over a ruby necklace, he entrusts Elijah with the jewels to deliver them to his wife. This act leads to a series of events where Elijah and Rose end up getting married to protect her from danger, despite their mutual admiration for each other. The story explores themes of interracial romance, courage, and love overcoming societal barriers, set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic wars in a British Army camp in Spain.

    The author weaves a tale of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, showcasing the evolving relationship between Elijah and Rose amidst the challenges they face, both individually and as a couple. The writing style immerses the reader in a historical setting, painting a vivid picture of army life in the early 19th century and capturing the emotional depth of the characters as they navigate their feelings and circumstances.


  7. #7

    How to Catch a Duke - Rogues to Riches by Grace Burrowes
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    'How to Catch a Duke' by Grace Burrowes is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Stephen, a disabled younger brother of a duke, and Abigail, a confident and independent woman who seeks his help. The book explores their budding romance amidst family dynamics, mysteries, and unexpected twists. The writing style is praised for its sparkling dialogue, well-developed characters, and an interesting plot that keeps readers engaged.

    “Miss Abbott, good day.” Stephen Wentworth struggled to his feet so that he might offer his visitor a bow. “While it is my greatest joy to accommodate a lady’s pleasure wherever that quest may lead, i...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rogues to Riches )

  8. #8

    From Duke Till Dawn - The London Underground by Eva Leigh
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    'From Duke Till Dawn' by Eva Leigh is a Regency Historical Romance novel that follows the story of Alexander Lewis, the Duke of Greyland, and Cassandra Blair, a swindler and confidence game operative. The book delves into their unexpected reunion at a gaming hell in London, where secrets are revealed, hearts are at stake, and a dangerous situation unfolds. Eva Leigh's writing style is praised for its captivating storytelling, well-developed characters, and vivid descriptions that transport readers into the London underworld of the early 19th century.

    The plot of 'From Duke Till Dawn' revolves around the complexities of love, trust, and self-discovery as Alex and Cass navigate their past, present, and uncertain future together. The book is filled with romance, suspense, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged from beginning to end, all while shedding light on the societal norms and challenges faced by characters in Regency-era London.


  9. #9

    The Heiress Hunt - The Fifth Avenue Rebels by Joanna Shupe
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    'The Heiress Hunt' in the series 'The Fifth Avenue Rebels' by author Joanna Shupe tells the story of childhood friends, Maddie and Harrison, whose lives take unexpected turns as they navigate love, betrayal, and societal expectations in the Gilded Age of New York. The plot revolves around Harrison's return to New York with a plan for vengeance and Maddie's pursuit of her dreams as a professional tennis player, all while their long-buried feelings for each other resurface, leading to a complex and tumultuous relationship.

    The writing style of Joanna Shupe captures the essence of young love evolving into a mature partnership, intertwined with themes of family legacies, societal pressures, and personal growth. The story intricately weaves together elements of romance, drama, and historical context, providing a vivid portrayal of the early world of women's tennis and the elite society of Newport, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.

    Harrison Archer, dressed in his shabbiest suit, tapped his knee with two fingertips and struggled for calm. It was nearly impossible in this house, the place where he’d grown up, surrounded by a famil...

  10. #10

    The King's Man - Welsh Blades by Elizabeth Kingston
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    In "The King's Man," Ranulf, the infamous King's assassin haunted by his past, flees to the Welsh wilderness where he meets Gwenllian, a healer and warrior. Despite their initial animosity, they find themselves on a slow-burn journey of forgiveness, love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of English vs Welsh politics. The book delves into themes of identity, love, betrayal, and redemption, portraying a romance that builds subtly and intensely between two unlikely allies who must navigate their conflicting loyalties amidst a turbulent historical setting.

    Gwenllian, a plain yet strong-willed woman, and Ranulf, a complex and tormented hero, form a compelling bond that evolves from discord to mutual respect and admiration. The narrative weaves together elements of medieval history, intricate character development, intense emotional moments, and a richly detailed setting in Wales. The story unfolds with layers of depth and complexity, exploring themes of inner strength, redemption, and the transformative power of love amid a backdrop of political intrigue and personal turmoil.

    When first he woke, he thought he must be roasting in the fires of Hell. Later he would know that it was a raging fever that burned him, and she would tell him it was a delirium that caused insensate ...

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