Best Historical Romance Novels

More Historical Romance Books in Archives and Reader Favorites

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie Jennifer Ashley Leisure Books, 2009 Historical romance Everyone says Lord Ian MacKenzie is mad--and possibly a murderer--but a young widow longing for passion is determined to bare the truth about the dashing and darkly charming Scotsman. More... “It had me laughing, gasping, sighing and smiling...” – Xeranthemum, Long and Short Reviews …full book review Available at Amazon

Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake Sarah MacLean Avon, 2010 Historical romance A lady does not smoke cheroot. She does not ride astride. She does not fence or attend duels. She does not fire a pistol, and she never gambles at a gentlemen's club. Lady Calpurnia Hartwell has always followed the rules, rules that have left her unmarried—and more than a little unsatisfied. And so she's vowed to break the rules and live the life of pleasure she's been missing. More... “Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake is a story that touches your soul.” – Danielle, Coffee Time Romance & More …full book review Available at Amazon

The Forbidden Rose Joanna Bourne Berkley, 2010 Historical romance A glittering French aristocrat is on the run, disguised as a British governess. England's top spy has a score to settle with her family. But as they're drawn inexorably into the intrigue and madness of Revolutionary Paris, they gamble on a love to which neither of them will admit. More... “... once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop!” – Kathe Robin, RT Book Reviews …full book review Available at Amazon

Marrying the Royal Marine Carla Kelly Harlequin, 2010 Historical romance Illegitimate Polly Brandon has never felt like more than an ugly duckling. So she's amazed when Hugh Philippe Junot pays her such close attention as they sail for Portugal. Under ordinary circumstances she knows this distinguished lieutenant colonel of marines would never have looked at her, but having his protection for the journey is comforting—and something more that she's afraid to give a name to. More... “...this book is darn near perfect.” – Maggie Boyd, All About Romance …full book review Available at Amazon

Seven Secrets of Seduction Anne Mallory Avon, 2010 Historical romance Scandalous and provocative, The Seven Secrets of Seduction is an intoxicating insight into the mind of men and the desires of women—and the book has all the ton talking. Secret #1: Every good seduction begins with a baited hook . . . Well-educated, but not part of society, Miranda Chase is just as captivated by the erotic pages as everyone else in London. Intrigued by the layers she sees beneath the book's surface, she writes an editorial about it, never realizing that her passionate words will draw an actual viscount to her uncle's bookshop. More... “...Seven Secrets of Seduction has it all...” – Jean Wan, All About Romance …full book review Available at Amazon

In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady Gayle Callen Avon, 2010 Historical romance Entranced by a portrait, haunted by scandal, he would stop at nothing to learn the truth . . . even if it led to their utter ruin. More... “In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady is one outstanding book!” – Danielle, Coffee Time Romance & More …full book review Available at Amazon

Seneca Surrender Gen Bailey Berkley Sensation, 2010 Historical romance 1756, the American Colonies: While the English and French fight for control of the North American continent, the American Indians fight for their lives. Another war rages, however, within the hearts of one Seneca warrior and a white woman in danger... More... “[Gen Bailey] pens an outstanding extraordinary story beyond words.” – Cherokee, Coffee Time Romance & More …full book review Available at Amazon

Shameless (Banning Sisters Trilogy) Karen Robards Gallery, 2010 Historical/Regency romance In Regency England, a beautiful young woman finds her life thrown into turmoil by the arrival of a handsome scoundrel. Lady Elizabeth, the youngest and most headstrong of the three Banning sisters, has been engaged three times, and has most scandalously broken off all three engagements. Her fear of becoming any man’s property has kept her from marriage and earned her a reputation in the ton as a heartbreaking flirt. Neil Severin is a wicked rogue, black of heart and black of reputation.... More... “...a standout.” – Kathe Robin, RT Book Reviews …full book review Available at Amazon

Ravished by a Highlander Paula Quinn Forever, 2010 Historical romance FORBIDDEN LOVE Davina Montgomery is no ordinary English lady. For her own protection, she's been locked away from society, her true identity the Crown's most closely guarded secret. Until a shocking betrayal--and a bold rescue--land her in the arms of a fierce Highlander, a powerful warrior whose searing gaze and tantalizing touch awaken her body and soul. More... Starred Review from Publishers Weekly Available at Amazon

Most Eagerly Yours (Her Majesty's Secret Servants) Allison Chase Signet, 2010 Historical romance Raised on their uncle's country estate, the four orphaned Sutherland sisters formed a close friendship with the young Princess Victoria. Shortly before her coronation as queen, Victoria asks the sisters to serve her in matters requiring the utmost discretion. They are to become her secret servants. The first to serve is Laurel - who poses as a widow to uncover a traitor, and discovers instead an irresistible rogue… More... “Together [Laurel and Aidan] were amusing and tantalizing…” – Alexandra Cenni, Romance Reader at Heart …full book review Available at Amazon

In for a Penny Rose Lerner Leisure Books, 2010 Regency historical romance, R IN FOR A PENNY No more drinking. No more gambling. And definitely no more mistress. Now that he's inherited a mountain of debts and responsibility, Lord Nevinstoke has no choice but to start acting respectable. Especially if he wants to find a wife--better yet, a rich wife. Penelope Brown, a manufacturing heiress, seems the perfect choice. She's pretty, rational, ladylike, and looking for a marriage based on companionship and mutual esteem. IN FOR A POUND But when they actually get to Nev's family estate, all the respectability and reason in the world won't be enough to deal with tenants on the edge of revolt, a menacing neighbor, and Nev's family's propensity for scandal. More... “…the strong characterizations and wonderful tone made me love In for a Penny and consider it a treasure.” – Lynn Spencer, All About Romance …full book review Available at Amazon

A Highlander's Homecoming (Daughters of the Glen, Book 6) Melissa Mayhue Pocket, 2010 Historical/Time Travel romance SCOTLAND, PRESENT DAY. When Faerie Magic swept Robert MacQuarrie forward in time, modern medicine saved him from a fatal wound. But he also left behind an unfulfilled vow -- to protect his friend's young daughter, Isabella. Haunted by guilt for more than a decade, he leaps at the chance to go back and keep that vow. The magic of the Fae works in its own mysterious ways, however. More... “Action, romance, good strong characters, and many twists and turns that will keep you glued to your seat…” – Bonnie, A Romance Review …full book review Available at Amazon

Surrender (MacKinnon's Rangers, Book 1) Pamela Clare Dorchester Publishing, 2006 Historical romance An Army Ranger heads out to tame the wild frontier--not realizing that a stubborn beauty will be the one to tame his heart. More... This is an older novel we ran across--it has 45 five star reviews (out of 51) on Amazon. Decided to post it for that remarkable feat alone! Available at Amazon

The Golden Season Connie Brockway Onyx, 2010 Historical romance Wealthy, orphaned Lady Lydia Eastlake reigns over Regency England as the ton's most celebrated beauty. But she must face losing the only life she's ever known when her fortune suddenly disappears-and the only solution is to find a wealthy husband. Enter Captain Ned Lockton, a rich and dashing war hero who sends Lydia's pulse racing. Little does she know that the enigmatic captain's family estate is secretly on the selling block… More... “It has been a long while since I became so caught up in a tale…” – Jane Bowers, Romance Reviews Today …full book review Available at Amazon

Dangerous Highlander: A Dark Sword Novel Donna Grant St. Martins, 2009 Historical romance/fantasy romance First in a breathtaking new series, the bold and passionate Lucan MacLeod—one of three brothers cursed by dark magic for eternity—is driven by desire for the one woman he dare not let himself possess… More... “I definitely recommend Dangerous Highlander, even to skeptics of paranormal romance…” – Amy Wroblewsky, The Romance Reader …full book review Available at Amazon

Emerald Embrace Shannon Drake (Heather Graham) Medallion Press, 2010 Historical romance After a friend’s untimely death arouses suspicion of murder, Martise St. James journeys to the brooding Scottish castle of the late Mrs. Creegan to find her mystifying widower. Lord Bruce Creegan’s presence arouses more than just her suspicions. More... “Ms. Drake seduces her readers and captivates them in this fast-paced, intriguing, and passionate romance.” – Lauren Calder, Affaire de Coeur …full book review Starred Review from Publisher’s Weekly Available at Amazon

Seduced by A Stranger Eve Silver Zebra, 2009 Historical romance The vast, dense forest and murky lake that surround Cairncroft Abbey aren't the only menacing elements that envelop the estate. For a dark history lies behind its walls - where secrets and evil still linger...Catherine Weston arrives at Cairncroft Abbey to visit her childhood friend Madeline St. Aubyn whose health seems to deteriorate with each passing day. Even stranger, Madeline appears to grow more nervous whenever she is in the presence of her cousin, Gabriel. But Gabriel has quite a different effect on Catherine… More... “This is as much a thriller as a romance, standing the hairs on the back of your neck…” – Lototy, Coffee Time Romance & More …full book review Available at Amazon

Where the Winds Blows Caroline Fyffe Leisure Books, 2009 Historical (Western) romance Chase Logan liked being a loner, a drifter, free and clear as a mountain stream. But one look into Jessie Strong's sky-blue eyes and in the span of a heartbeat, he found himself agreeing to be her husband--and a father! Jessie knew it was all pretend. And only temporary. Just until the adoption went through for three-year-old Sarah. But the longer Chase stayed, the less she could imagine a long, lonely Wyoming winter without him. More... “ If you are a western fan, this will make you shout for joy that someone has gotten it so right.” – Shirley Lyons, The Romance Reader …full review Available at Amazon

Untamed (MacKinnon's Rangers, Book 2) Pamela Clare Leisure Books, 2008 Historical romance After he's captured by the French and threatened with being burned alive by their Abanaki allies, Morgan MacKinnon becomes a spy within their camp, never realizing just how treacherous his conflicting loyalties will be when he falls in love with an innocent yet alluring mademoiselle. “The characters leap off the pages...” – Marilyn Rondeau, CK2S Kwips and Kritiques …full review Available at Amazon

Mcalistair's Fortune Alissa Johnson Leisure Books, 2009 Historical/Regency romance To Miss Evie Cole, ignorance was never bliss. That principle had driven her to become quite adept at a most unladylike pursuit—eavesdropping. And it was while honing this skill that she heard her guardians’ elaborate scheme to find her a husband. Too bad she’d vowed never to marry. At least she knew the peril they were planning to help entrap her was only pretend. “Alissa Johnson writes a great story full of charm, wit and humor.” – Kristal Gorman, Romance Reader at Heart …full review NOTE: This book was listed as a 5 star review on the RRAH’s overview page, but 4 stars on the review. Not sure which one is the typo, but the book seems like a good one, so we’ve listed it here. Available at Amazon

The Lady & the Libertine Bonnie Vanak Leisure Books, 2009 Historical romance A young Englishwoman discovers that her necklace is the key to a fabulous Egyptian treasure, and the dissipated earl who seeks it is after her as well. “The characters were lively, the banter was quick and sharp, and the romance was sufficiently hot enough to make me sigh in happiness.” – Alexandra Cenni, Romance Reader at Heart …full review Available at Amazon

His Woman Diana Cosby Zebra, 2008 Historical romance Lady Isabel Adair is the last woman Sir Duncan MacGruder wants to see again, much less be obliged to save. Three years ago, Isabel broke their engagement to become the Earl of Frasyer's mistress, shattering Duncan's heart and hopes in one painful blow. But Duncan's promise to Isabel's dying brother compels him to rescue her from those determined to bring down Scottish rebel Sir William Wallace.Betraying the man she loved was the only way for Isabel to save her father, but every moment she spends with Duncan reminds her just how much she sacrificed. More... “Get ready for an action packed non-stop thrill ride with His Woman a sequel to multi talented new author Diana Cosby’s His Captive….His Woman is everything you could want in a historical romance and more!” – Bonnie, A Romance Review …full review Available at Amazon

The Commander's Desire Jennette Green The Wild Rose Press, 2008 Historical, PG-13 Princess Elwytha wants revenge on the monster who murdered her brother. In a false exchange for peace, she offers herself in marriage to the enemy Prince. The plan? Kill the Prince's battle-scarred Commander-the man who ended King Thor's life with one filthy sword thrust through the back. To her horror, the Commander agrees to take Elwytha as his bride.... Read an excerpt... Top Pick from Romance Reader at Heart “Ms. Green’s portrayal of the Commander was refreshing. He was kind and caring without being wimpy, and it takes a talented author to bring that out in a character without losing the effect of being a strong alpha warrior while keeping the reader's interest at the same time....THE COMMANDER'S DESIRE is definitely a keeper.” – Sheila Smith, Romance Reader at Heart …full review “The Commander’s Desire is a historical novel that reaches you deep down to your soul.... Simply stated, I loved this book. No matter what genre you read or what heat level you enjoy, you will be enthralled with The Commander’s Desire. You will feel their emotions, understand their sorrows and celebrate their victories. It definitely stays on my shelf.” – Cindy K. Green, WRDF Reviews ...full review “Jennette Green's THE COMMANDER'S DESIRE is a quick paced romance read…. Jennette Green is an author whose career medieval romance readers should watch with interest.” – Merri, Medieval Book Reviews ...full review Available at Amazon

A Knight's Temptation (Knight's series) Catherine Kean Medallian Press, 2009 Historical romance A ruby pendant stands at the center of this tale of disgrace, plotting, redemption, and the reunion of childhood friends. Aldwin Treynarde is a squire who, in his youth, was banished from home for shooting Lord Geoffrey de Lanceau with a crossbow bolt and nearly killing the man. Later on, Aldwin discovered that he had been set up by the deceitful Baron Sedgewick, who fed him false stories about the lord's wrongdoings. More... “I have not read any of the previous books in this series, however, after sampling this delectable delight, I am ready to do just that.” – Danielle, Coffee Time Romance & More…full review Available at Amazon

Enemy Of The King Beth Trissel The Wild Rose Press, 2009 Historical romance 1780, South Carolina: While Loyalist Meriwether Steele recovers from illness in the stately home of her beloved guardian, Jeremiah Jordan, she senses the haunting presence of his late wife. When she learns that Jeremiah is a Patriot spy and shoots Captain Vaughan, the British officer sent to arrest him, she is caught up on a wild ride into Carolina back country, pursued both by the impassioned captain and the vindictive ghost. Will she remain loyal to her king and Tory twin brother or risk a traitor's death fighting for Jeremiah? More... “I thoroughly enjoyed reading Enemy of the King. Not only are the characters memorable and the setting beautifully described, but the action is riveting and the romance between Meri and Jeremiah is tender.” – Poinsettia, Long and Short Reviews …full review Available at Amazon