Book picks similar to
A Ghostly Tale of Forbidden Love by Madeline Martin
historical-romance
novella
low-angst
highlander-romance
No Regrets
Ann Lethbridge - 2017
While it breaks her heart to say yes to the arrangement with a man she’s always loved, it’s the only way to secure her sisters’ futures. To the world, Lucas, Lord Foxhaven, is an irrepressible rogue, and wedded bliss is the furthest thing from his mind. But he’s been forced up to the mark by his father, and he’s certain the demure Carolyn won’t give him an iota of trouble—if only her voluptuous body weren’t driving him to distraction. As Carolyn struggles to keep her true feelings hidden, Lucas is drawn ever more powerfully by thoughts of unbridled passion, and he’s stunned by his burgeoning feelings for a woman he’s always seen as a friend. When a scheming Parisian relative threatens to take her from him for good, Lucas realizes he must stand up and be the man Carolyn always knew he could be—even as he suddenly comes to know he wants their marriage in name only to become quite real . . . This book was originally published under the author name Michele Ann Young. Praise for Ann Lethbridge: “Her characters are delightful and full of naughty delight.” —Romantic Times “Readers won’t be able to stop reading!” —Romantic Times About the Author: An army brat born in England, Ann lived all over the UK in her youth. She grew up loving history, and her favorite part of any holiday is to visit an English country house, a castle or a museum. Now living in Canada with her husband and two lovely daughters, she has acquired a Maltese terrier called Teaser, who likes to sit on a chair beside the computer while she creates her award-winning romances.
The Duke's Marriage of Convenience
Fiona Miers - 2020
This spirited tomboy would rather care for her horses than tend to a husband—even if her betrothed is a dashing Duke. But to save her family, Raven accepts the dull life of a Duchess, and the societal expectations that will surely crush her soul. Her handsome fiancé, with his extravagant stables and shared love of horses, takes her by surprise. And so does the attraction she feels with every whispered word and flammable touch. This once reluctant bride soon yearns for more than a marriage of convenience.Andrew Seymour, Duke of Somerset, is resigned to his fate… he will marry for duty, rather than love. Since the crushing blow of his parents’ deaths, guilt has driven Drew’s every decision. A quiet loveless marriage is all he deserves. But his fiancé is no simpering society Miss. With a sharp wit and an even sharper tongue, she has him bewitched and bewildered. Raven’s joy for life pulls him out of the cold, dark shadows of regret, ready to embrace life again. But Drew’s stubborn streak turns Raven’s passion to anger. And the engagement is broken—along with his heart.Drew is determined to win back the only woman he’s ever loved… before it’s too late. Can Raven forgive Drew and give him a second chance?
Highland Revenge
Ceci Giltenan - 2015
He was lucky to escape alive, and vows to have revenge.Years later, as laird of Clan MacKay, he gets his chance when he captures Lady Fiona MacNicol. His desire for revenge is strong but he is beguiled by his captive. Can he forget his stubborn hatred long enough to listen to the secret she has kept for so long? And once he knows the truth, can he show her she is not alone and forsaken? In the end, is he strong enough to fight the combined hostilities and age-old grudges that demand he give her up?Highland Revenge is a romance. It contains a mildly explicit description of a wedding night and the next morning. If you prefer either more or less steam you might be disappointed.
A Touch of Frost
Jo Goodman - 2017
RESCUE MEAfter his train is robbed at gunpoint, Remington Frost awakens from a blow to find the bandits gone...along with the woman he was shadowing for protection. No stranger to risk, Remington will do what it takes to bring Phoebe Apple to safety and her kidnappers to justice. But ransoming Phoebe is just the start of trouble...Phoebe is shocked to learn that her mysterious rescuer is none other than Remington Frost, the son of her sister's new husband. Home at Twin Star Ranch, she falls happily into western life--and cautiously in love with Remington. But danger hides close to home, and their romance illuminates a web of secrets and betrayal that may put the rancher and his intended bride past the point of rescue.*Publisher's Weekly
The Highland Duke
Amy Jarecki - 2017
. . When Akira Ayres finds the brawny Scot with a musket ball in his thigh, the healer has no qualms about doing whatever it takes to save his life. Even if it means fleeing with him across the Highlands to tend to his wounds while English redcoats are closing in. Though Akira is as fierce and brave as any of her clansmen, even she's intimidated by the fearsome, brutally handsome Highlander who refuses to reveal his name.Yet she can never learn his true identity.Geordie knows if Akira ever discovers he's the Duke of Gordon, both her life and his will be forfeit in a heartbeat. The only way to keep the lass safe is to ensure she's by his side day and night. But the longer he's with her, the harder it becomes to think of letting her go. Despite all their differences, despite the danger-he will face death itself to make her his . . .
A Countess for Christmas
Anthea Lawson - 2013
Between caring for her elderly father and managing a household barely out of mourning, she has no time for the softer things in life.Liam Barrett, the Earl of Tarrick, is certain he will not accept Marcus Fairfax's invitation to spend Christmas at the Fairfax family's estate - and the man's tales of a family ghost have nothing to do with his decision.Of all the blessings of the season, sometimes the most unexpected is love...Heat level: SWEETOriginally published in the anthology Christmas Ghosts, A Countess for Christmas is a Regency-set short story of 13,000 words (approximately 50 pages).
Lonesome Valley Bride
G.L. Snodgrass - 2019
And it could be all his if he only married a woman he had never met. Jack Tanner had drifted from job to job. A natural loner, the last thing he ever expected was to end up married to a stranger and owning a beautiful valley. And now, just as he was beginning to put down roots for the first time in his life, someone wanted to take it all away from him. He’d die before he let that happen. Mail-order bride, Jenny O’Neil was coming west to marry Nathanial Parker only to find out he had been murdered. And here was this tall cowboy telling her that Nathanial had left his valley to them. But only if they married. A business arrangement, Mr. Tanner called it. Not a true marriage. But what choice did she have? Penniless, no home to go back to, alone in a different world. She had already committed herself to marry a stranger. Although, she had never imagined marrying a man like this. Tall, rough around the edges, with eyes that touched her soul. Someone has killed and would try to kill again to get their valley. Struggling together, the two of them will fight for what is theirs. All the while, growing closer. Both of them wanting more than a cold business arrangement. Both of them coming to want a true marriage.
Rogues, Rakes, and Romance
Elizabeth Boyce - 2015
Maybe it’s the noble title or the chivalry. Perhaps it’s the dashing sense of danger. No matter your preference, prepare to fall in love with five heroes who know how to make a girl swoon in any century:Truth Within Dreams: Claudia’s plan to stage her own ruination and escape marriage to the churlish and elderly Sir Saint seemed foolproof. She was sure the kindly Henry De Vere wouldn’t mind helping her out … but somehow she hadn’t counted on him actually proposing. Can a fake scandal lead to real dreams coming true?The Winter Promise: In the fall of 1053, Lady Imma has one loyalty: to help her uncle, the king of Wales, win his war against the English. Lord Robert, the steward of Wessex, has one loyalty as well: to keep his beloved Wessex safe from enemies. When she is forced to seek shelter in his keep, they must decide if they can listen to their hearts – or if they would be wiser never to trust each other. Revolutionary Hearts: To complete his mission in India’s fight for independence, General Carton—aka U.S. undercover operative Warren Khan—must hide both his true objective and his heritage. But once he meets the captivating Parineeta, who holds the key to both his freedom and capturing her brother, a suspected anarchist, he finds the subterfuge more difficult than anticipated. Merry’s Wonderful Christmas Gift: The winter holidays used to be Miss Merry Damonson’s favorite time of year. Until her almost-fiancé Edward Everton abandoned her two days before Christmas. Now he’s returned to their country village, but is it too late to reignite old flames? A holiday ball might just offer these unlucky lovers a second chance. An Unconventional Courtship: George Fitzpatrick had boarded the new omnibus intent on nothing more than a ride from one point to another. Until a gorgeous young blonde named Charlotte Ashcroft suddenly claims he is her chaperone. What’s an up-and-coming young banker to do but help a lady out?
Wild Wicked Scot
Julia London - 2016
Three years ago she fled their marriage of convenience and hasn't looked back—except to relive the moments spent in wild, rugged Arran McKenzie's passionate embrace. But as their respective countries' fragile unity threatens to unravel, Margot must return to her husband to uncover his role in the treachery before her family can be accused of it. Red-haired, green-eyed Margot was Arran's beautiful bride. Her loss has haunted him, but her return threatens everything he has gained. As the Highland mists carry whispers of an English plot to seize McKenzie territory, he must outmaneuver her in games of espionage…and seduction. But even as their secrets tangle together, there's nothing to prevent love from capturing them both and leading them straight into danger.
The Fake Fiancé (Alpha Billionaires Book 1)
B.L. Brooks - 2022
But when my PA forgets to inform me of my ex’s wedding, my hand is now forced as I’ll need a partner-in-crime for the event.And Kate…she’s the perfect match. Someone of beauty and intelligence—capable of smiling, even laughing the night away by my side.I thought I knew how I felt before, but now there’s something else—some deeper meaning here I can’t explain when she agrees to play the part of my fake fiancé.My mind should steer clear of this beautiful distraction, but what’s the point of having wealth and power in this game without having my very own bride to be?
If you enjoy swoon-worthy men addicted to their woman of interest, you’ll heat up for the bad-boy alphas in my Alpha Billionaire series! In the first book of the series, you’ll fall in love with Kate and Bryce’s story!
Claire's Christmas Dance: A Victorian Christmas Novelette
Rachelle J. Christensen - 2018
The Fielding House Christmas Ball is for everyone, including servants. This Christmas Eve a lady’s maid, Claire Walden, plans to attend for the first time, but when Mrs. Fielding’s grandson shows up unexpectedly the dance may take a different turn. Edmund is a gentleman of the upper class, but with a questionable background. When he shows an interest in Claire, she doesn’t want to risk her heart, but over time, Claire comes to know Edmund. As the Christmas Eve ball approaches, Claire wonders if love might be able to cross the lines of servants and high society. If she saves a dance for Edmund, will he steal her heart forever?
Highland Heartbeats Boxed Set: Books 10-12
Aileen Adams - 2018
Purchase this limited edition boxed set or read for free in KINDLE UNLIMITED! A Highlander's Need Book Ten of the Highland Heartbeats Series! Some needs are forever… She accepts no man as her boss. She runs her father’s household and runs the forest when she’s not. He’s a youngest son brought home from his mercenary soldier of fortune ways by a father’s trickery. He’s not remotely interested in settling down. She has news for him. Neither is she. Except both their fathers think they know what this hardheaded woman and this fierce former soldier need. Only it would seem no one bothered to learn what these two want. *** A Highlander's Scars Book Eleven of the Highland Heartbeats Series! Not all scars are visible… Donnan Ross, a friend of Padraig Anderson, is headed home from battle bearing more scars than a man should. He discovers that his father is dying, and his brother has left the family with hefty debts to pay. Beyond frustrated, Donnan retreats to a life of a hermit while spies infiltrate the Highlands and take “disloyal” folks as captives. A powerful laird offers Donnan’s father the opportunity to erase the family’s debt in exchange for helping him find his missing daughter. A woman that some claim has fallen in love with one of the enemy. Donnan remembers the laird’s daughter only too well. Fenella, they called her. A headstrong mouthy Highland lass. No one told Donnan that Fenella was involved with the spies. No one told him she’d blossomed into such a beauty. Now, Donnan has a difficult decision to make. Fenella is not the type to fall for traitors, nor is she naïve to the ways of the world. She is not enamored with one of the enemy, but her wish to serve her clan has dropped her in hot water. And, now the bitter recluse of a man she remembers from childhood thinks the worst of her. And she doesn’t care. But why is she so bothered, then? *** A Highlander's Woman Book Twelve of the Highland Heartbeats Series! A Highlander loves forever... This book in the Highland Heartbeats brings us a wonderful love story for Padraig Anderson, Rodric’s younger brother who now heads the Anderson clan and has seen his brother and all of his friends find his happily ever after while he’s stayed the course and run the family business. Margaret is an assassin with the Order. Until she can’t perform her last assignment. Now she’s on the run, disguised as a lad, and facing down scoundrels outside brothels. Until she’s rescued by Sorcha and Moira and brought to the Clan Anderson homestead. Who said life would be any easier when her heart keeps beating faster every moment the laird steps near?
For Love of a Laird
Mia Pride - 2019
She may never know true love, but her people will finally know peace. However, when tragedy strikes more than once, and Elizabeth is pawned from laird to laird, unexpected desires for one man threaten to compromise her dutiful existence, forcing her to defy the rules. As the spare to the heir, Robert Irvine understands his obligation to the clan during these volatile times. But, marrying his brother’s beautiful widow is more than he bargained for, and nothing he is prepared for. When all he never wanted becomes all he ever needed, Robert suddenly stands to lose it all. When war is a constant threat, and a marriage to Elizabeth is the key to peace, Robert will do all he can to secure both, until he discovers she has done something that may destroy them both.
Irvines of Drum
Book 1 - For Love of a Laird Book 2 - Like a Laird to a Flame Book 3 - Maid for the Knight
The Laird's Bastard Daughter
Tessa Murran - 2019
Stirling Castle is under siege by the Scots, and the English are coming to take it back. Cormac Buchanan is over six foot of muscle and ferocity, a supreme warrior who has spent years fighting for Robert the Bruce, self-proclaimed King of Scotland. Cormac is battling not only the English invaders but also his clan’s sworn enemy, the Gowans. Having long since built a wall of ice around his heart, he is horrified at his king’s command to bury old enmities and unite with Clan Gowan, through marriage.Cormac expects his bride to hate him, and he intends to put her aside and forget about her. What he does not expect, is Ravenna Gowan, a bastard, half low-born and fiercely defiant. He just wants her to obey, in bed and out of it, but with looks that would stir any man’s blood, this strange, hard girl wakes a savage need in him. Shame he can’t trust her, nor can he ever look favourably on any Gowan, after what they took from him.Banished to a convent for the sin of forbidden love, Ravenna Gowan’s life seems over, until an English army heads north and her father has to sacrifice a daughter to the cause of King Robert the Bruce. Ravenna is about to become the glue that binds two clans together by wedding fearsome warrior Cormac Buchanan, but she refuses to be a helpless pawn in men’s power games. For Ravenna, this forced marriage holds no hope of love, nor is it about loyalty or duty - it is all about vengeance.Can Ravenna survive her rough, angry husband who resents and mistrusts her? Or will her loyalties be tested and her life threatened, as she tries to deny their growing attraction. The Laird’s Bastard Daughter takes the reader from the moors of the Highlands to castles under siege, and, as Scotland burns, to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Scots rebel army in the battle lines at Bannockburn.Loyalties are tested, bloody vengeance is sought, and secrets are uncovered, with deadly consequences.The Laird’s Bastard Daughter is the first of The Highland Warlords Series but can be read as a stand-alone book.ExtractWhen she got to the kirk, Ravenna saw before her a group of men standing with her father and she had to force her legs forward. She could barely look at them. Oh God, which of this pack of hounds was to be her husband? Which of these men, covered in muck from the road, would step forward and claim her, like a prize? Or was she more a burden, for she knew full well that no Buchanan would ever want her? As she walked forward, a handsome man, young but imposing, looked at her with keen interest. He wasn’t so bad, his expression was kind, and there was admiration in his eyes. Then he stepped aside to reveal a man behind him. This other one was taller, darker and wild-looking. ‘Like a beast’, Coira had said. With a heart sinking to her toes, Ravenna realised this must be Cormac Buchanan, not the one with gentle eyes, but this one, who was looking at her with a face like thunder.