Books Like...
'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.
If you liked Carry the World, here are the top 16 books to read next:
'Nothing On Earth & Nothing in Heaven' by Susan Fanetti is a historical romance novel set in the early 20th century that follows the story of Lady Nora Tate, a young woman from an aristocratic English family who rebels against societal expectations and fights for her independence. The plot revolves around Nora's journey of self-discovery, her struggles against the constraints of her time, and her forbidden love with William Frazier, a supporter of women's suffrage from America. The writing style captures the essence of the era, immersing readers in a tale of love, resilience, and societal upheaval.
- #2
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.
(Also, see 81 recommendations for the series When The Blood Is Up ) - #3
Simple Jess by Pamela Morsi is a historical romance set in Appalachia in the late 19th and early 20th century. The story follows Althea, a young widow with a son, who is pressured by her community to remarry. She hires Jess, a man with intellectual challenges but a kind heart, to help around her farm. As Althea gets to know Jess, she discovers his true nature and begins to see him as a potential partner. The book explores themes of love, acceptance, and community in the Ozarks, creating a heartwarming tale of overcoming obstacles and finding true love.
Althea Winsloe was hopping mad. Her face was red, her teeth were clenched, and she was marching down the well-worn mountain path with such determined haste that she was completely unaware of the brigh... - #4
In 'Think of England' by K.J. Charles, readers are taken on a thrilling journey set in Edwardian England where two men, Curtis and Da Silva, are sent on separate missions to an estate. They inadvertently join forces to uncover evidence against their host, leading to a partnership that evolves amidst espionage, danger, and palpable sexual tension. The story is a mix of adventure and romance, with a strong focus on character development and period accuracy, creating a fast-paced and intense narrative that keeps readers engaged until the end.
There was a car waiting at the station, the latest model Austin. The uniformed chauffeur stood by it with military bearing, but leapt to help as Curtis approached and hovered while he got himself into... - #5
"Mackenzie's Mountain" by Linda Howard follows the story of Mary, a determined schoolteacher, and Wolf Mackenzie, a fierce and fiery rancher with a troubled past. As Mary tries to help Wolf's son, Joe, get back to school, she finds herself entangled in the town's prejudice and suspicion towards the Mackenzie family. Despite the challenges they face, Mary and Wolf's relationship blossoms, leading to a passionate and suspenseful love affair set against the backdrop of a small town with hidden monsters and misplaced hatred.
Wolf Mackenzie spent a restless night, with the bright full moon throwing its silver light on the empty pillow beside him. His body ached with need, the sexual need of a healthy man, and the passing h... - #6
'Courting Miss Hattie' by Pamela Morsi tells the story of Hattie Colfax, a plain woman of 29 years who has been tending her farm with the help of Reed Tyler, her childhood friend and now sharecropper. Reed has been working on the Colfax farm since he was a child, and now at 24, he dreams of buying the land from Hattie to make a life with his beautiful fiancée. However, when Hattie is courted for the first time, Reed realizes that it is not his fiancée, but Hattie that he truly desires. explores themes of friendship turning into love, self-acceptance, and the challenges of finding happiness in unexpected places.
Pamela Morsi's writing style in 'Courting Miss Hattie' is characterized by romantic tension, well-developed characters, and a touch of realism. beautifully portrays the evolution of feelings between Reed and Hattie, capturing the nuances of their relationship as it transitions from friendship to love. Morsi's storytelling weaves together themes of love, friendship, and personal growth, creating a heartwarming tale of finding love in familiar faces and unexpected places.
The stillness of the gray morning was abruptly shattered as the barn door flew open, slamming back on its hinges. Peering out as if to see if the coast was clear was a handsome, well-groomed nanny goa... - #7
'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.
- #8
After discovering his brother's death, reclusive rancher Noah takes in his brother's pregnant wife Katherine, leading to a marriage of convenience that evolves into a heartfelt love story. The book beautifully captures the journey of healing and forgiveness, exploring themes of self-worth, love, and overcoming past traumas. The narrative showcases a sweet and tender romance set in the old American West, with well-developed characters and a captivating Beauty and the Beast trope.
The rap on the wood was sharp and insistent. Kate Allen Cutter pushed herself up from her narrow cot and slowly crossed the small dimly lit room while smoothing wrinkles from her faded skirt. She’d le... - #9
Moonshine by Kat Bostick is a post-apocalyptic romance novel that follows the story of Liv, a sunshine character who struggles to adapt to a new world after a dystopian event. The book explores Liv's journey as a vegetarian trying to survive in a changed society, her dynamic with the grumpy hero, Joshua, and the slow burn romance that develops between them. Readers praise the realistic depiction of the characters' struggles and the well-paced development of their relationship, set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop.
No one knows why the lights went out. Except maybe some secret branch of the government. They always know stuff like that, don’t they? I suppose it doesn’t really matter now. Six months after the blac... - #10
Heartless by Elsie Silver, the second book in the Chestnut Springs series, follows the story of Cade Eaton, a grumpy cowboy rancher in need of a nanny for his son Luke. Willa Grant, a sassy and free-spirited young woman, becomes the nanny, sparking a slow burn romance filled with tension and chemistry. The book portrays the heartwarming relationship that develops between Willa, Cade, and Luke, bringing out the best in each character. The writing style is described as humorous, emotional, and engaging, capturing the reader's attention with its swoony romance and charming characters.
Heartless is praised for its perfect blend of tropes, including age gap, grumpy x sunshine, single dad, and cowboy themes. The book is commended for its impeccable execution of these tropes, creating a story that is heartwarming, cute, and emotional. Readers appreciate the character development, especially highlighting the strong, independent female lead, Willa, and the grumpy yet caring Cade. The chemistry between the characters, the banter, and the slow burn romance are highlighted as key strengths of the book, making it a delightful and engaging read.
Summer’s lips roll together, and she offers a small, fake smile. “Yes, of course.” I almost snort. Summer’s idea of feminine entertainment is squatting heavy plates at the gym and torturing grown men ...