Book picks similar to
Marriage with a Proper Stranger by Karyn Gerrard


historical-romance
romance
regency
historical-fiction

For the Love of a Duchess


Bridget Barton - 2018
    When her father tells her that she is the only hope of saving the family from financial ruin, she finds herself set to marry the Duke of Lytton instead.Daniel Winchester, an accomplished and successful attorney, finds his simple existence at Lytton Hall turned upside down by the arrival of the Duke's new young bride. Determined to think her a young title-hunter, he is surprised to find himself drawn to her as every day passes. When the old Duke, his ego bruised by the realization that the beautiful young woman will never love him, becomes increasingly aggressive, Daniel is the only man with courage enough to defend her.But when the old Duke dies, will Eliza allow the threat of scandal and the fear of condemnation to turn her away from the only man she has ever truly loved? And will Daniel Winchester ever find a pathway leading to the heart of the young woman who occupies his every thought?"For the Love of a Duchess" is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

An Arranged Marriage


Jo Beverley - 1991
    "An Arranged Marriage" is the first of Beverley's beloved tales that began her popular "Company of Rogues" series. Eleanor Chivenham didn't put much past her vile brother, but even she had not anticipated his greedy scheme to dupe a rich earl into mistaking her for a lightskirt! With her reputation in shreds and her future ruined, a defeated Eleanor was forced to agree to a hasty wedding. But marriage to the mysterious Nicholas Delaney was more than she'd bargained for. He doubtless thought the worst of her, but when society gossip soon told her all about his beautiful French mistress, Eleanor tried to act with the cool dignity required in a marriage of convenience. But how long could she hold out against his undeniable charm -- or the secret desires of her heart? For the sake of family honor, Nicolas Delaney agreed to wed a wronged lady. In truth, such chivalry ran counter to his carefully wrought image of a carousing, dissolute rogue -- the guise so vital to his secret political mission. He hoped to keep his new wife in the background until a spy was trapped, but Eleanor's beauty and fighting wit were impossible to ignore. In fact, she presented quite a challenge to his prowess with women -- and a test of his formidable will!

Too Wicked to Wed


Cara Elliott - 2011
    But when a chance encounter with London's most notorious rake awakens a secret longing for adventure, she accepts her aunt's invitation for a Season in Town . . . only to find that breaking the rules of the ton has serious consequences.The Earl of Killingworth uses his rakehell reputation to hide the fact that poverty has forced him to work for a living. As the owner of a gambling den and brothel, Connor has no time for glittering ballrooms or innocent young ladies. But after a reckless wager leaves him with a new business partner, he is forced to take a risky gamble . . . Will the cards fall in their favor? Alexa and Connor begin to play a dangerous game of intrigue and deception as they seek to outwit a cunning adversary who wants to put them permanently out of business. But if they are not careful, it is the flames of their own fiery attraction that may destroy them.

Surrender to Sin


Nicola Davidson - 2016
    Lord Sebastian St. John, dedicated bachelor and a co-owner of Fallen, the most scandalous pleasure club in London, is known as Sin for good reason. Orphaned by a shocking accident, Sin long ago vowed a life of solitude and decadence. Yet when Lady Grace Carrington begs for his help destroying her reputation, Sin can't turn the ton's most proper lady away.Obedient daughter, wife, and young widow, Grace has had enough of being controlled. After her father arranges a second loveless marriage to an eminently respectable ancient, Grace plans a fortnight of defiance and self-ruination to stop the wedding. But as Grace enters the heady, risky world of an affair with Sin, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to him— and she soon realizes two weeks won't be nearly enough.Fun fact: the Fallen pleasure club is inspired by three real-life Regency-era clubs in London. The White House in Soho Square (madam Theresa Berkley specialized in flagellation, birching, caning etc); The Nunneries in King's Place (madam Catherine Windsor, very exclusive and a favorite of royals, MPs, diplomats, and peers); and Miss Fawkland's Temples in St. James's St.

Quest of Honor


Ellie St. Clair - 2017
    Her destiny is to one day assume command of the ship, continuing her father’s legacy of aiding the poor while eluding the Navy Captain who continues to hunt them. She despises the man for his relentless pursuit and is determined to be free of his chase forever. The naval captain... Thomas Harrington, second son of the Duke of Ware, joined the Royal Navy to escape from his life in society and find the freedom his soul had been searching for. Instead, he has spent three years attempting to bring the elusive pirate Captain Adams to justice. He disdains everything he believes about the pirate life and will stop at nothing to capture the prey that has eluded him for so long. Two worlds collide... The beautiful blonde woman he meets in a tavern haunts Thomas’ daydreams, until he finds her in the unlikeliest of circumstances. The freedom his soul has been searching for and the honor he so upholds clash within him as Thomas and Eleanor fight their desire for one another. As they question everything they’ve ever believed, can they find a way forward together? Quest of Honor is a 41,000-word romance with no cliffhangers, no cheating, and a guaranteed happily ever after! The Kindle version contains one extra story.

Not Quite Married


Betina Krahn - 1983
    . . who won’t really be a husband?Having rejected his own father’s title and fortune, shipbuilder Aaron Durham vows to find a way to finance his dreams. But what is a charming scapegrace to do when a desperate young lady and a small fortune fall into his lap . . . with a shocking condition attached?One irresistible night of passion will change their destinies.  Touch by touch, kiss by kiss, they fall deeper into a love large enough to span continents . . . strong enough to overcome deception . . . and sweet enough to make them forget that they have been.

The Rogue and The Earl's Temptation


Emma V. Leech - 2019
    The notorious Rogue that began it all. Set in Cornwall, 1815. Wild, untamed and isolated. Lawlessness is the order of the day and smuggling is rife. Henrietta always felt most at home in the wilds of the outdoors but even she had no idea how the mysterious and untamed would sweep her away in a moment. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“This book has lots of twists and turns in the plot, and many giggle-making moments - I thoroughly enjoyed it.” ~ Amazon customer review Bewitched by his wicked blue eyes. Henrietta Morton knows to look the other way when the free trading 'gentlemen' are at work. Yet when a notorious pirate bursts into her local village shop, she can avert her eyes no more. Bewitched by his wicked blue eyes, a moment of insanity follows as Henrietta hides the handsome fugitive from the Militia. Her reward is a kiss, lingering and unforgettable. In his haste to flee, the handsome pirate drops a letter, a letter that lays bare a tale of betrayal. When Henrietta’s father gives her hand in marriage to a wealthy and villainous nobleman in return for the payment of his debts, she becomes desperate. Blackmailing a pirate may be her only hope for freedom. The Earl’s Temptation ROGUES & GENTLEMEN: BOOK TWO Alexander Sinclair, Fourth Earl of Falmouth, has a reputation for revelling in vice. Wine, women and gambling are only one side of this dangerous man, for the Earl has a second life, leading a criminal gang, smuggling contraband between France and Cornwall. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A fabulous historical romance […] Ms. Leech has provided readers with a well-written book with amazing characters. Alex and Celeste's story is loaded with drama, action, sizzle, humor and suspense. The Earl's Temptation is book 2 of the Rogues & Gentlemen Series but can be read as a standalone - this is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.” ~ Amazon customer review Seeking ever more risk Alexander often leads his men on their night-time missions. One unlucky night the revenue men appear, and the smugglers sail into a violent storm in an effort to escape, but the ship and all aboard go down. Barely alive Alexander washes ashore on the coast of France. Enter innocent beauty, Celestine Lavelle, the daughter of a noble French family forced to flee their estate during the revolution. Having lost everything, she must work in the kitchens of a coastal brothel. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I loved the characters so much they are so complex and share a wonderful chemistry. Emma Leech created a world so passionate that evokes so much emotions you cannot put down this amazing steamy story” ~ Amazon customer review Desperate and alone, her future is besieged by sin. The discovery of a half-drowned English smuggler on the shore will lead her heart in directions she never dreamed of. Alexander determines to save his beguiling rescuer. He plans her future should be full of everything that is good and honourable… but will the temptation to take her as his own be too hard to resist? The first and second book of the acclaimed Rogues & Gentlemen historical romance series from Emma V Leech, the multi-award-winning Amazon Top 10 romance writer.

Kismet


Monica Burns - 2010
    What happens between them is...KISMET2010 CAPA – Best Erotic HistoricalRaised in a brothel at a young age, Allegra Synnford quickly learned that survival meant taking charge of her destiny. Now, a renowned courtesan skilled in the sensual, seductive, tempting pleasures of the flesh, she chooses her lovers carefully—vowing never to be vulnerable to any one man. Until a mesmerizing Sheikh strips that control from her… Sheikh Shaheen of the Amazigh has been hiding from his past for a long time, but not enough to forget how another courtesan he wanted as his bride made him abandon his life as the Viscount Newcastle. It’s why the yearnings this dangerous temptress ignites within him are so troubling. Worse, thoughts of Allegra pervade his every fantasy, threatening to undermine his cover. With old enemies circling, experience tells him he must resist her sensual, seductive charms at all cost. In fact, he’s betting on controlling his obsession for Allegra. It's a risky wager when it comes to a woman of trained in sensual, seductive pleasures. But Allegra has her own reasons for playing games…with a man who can’t afford to lose. “This sizzling hot historical and its compelling characters will leave you panting for more! Monica Burns writes with sensitivity and panache. Don’t miss this one!”— Sabrina Jeffries, NYT bestselling author“Burns’ story is hotter than the desert sands! She succeeds with a classic captive/captor romance akin to a Johanna Lindsey classic. Relax and enjoy the sizzling show — complete with a lesson in bananas and seduction.” — RTBOOKreviews – 4 Stars“After reading the bio posted on her website, I was afforded a deeper understanding into the wealth of emotions she poured into Kismet. Tenacious, sassy heroines and strong, sexy heroes are her signature style and she’s boldly penned one of the best books I’ve read in years.” — TwoLipsReviews “…a wonderful historical fiction voice. The way she builds up the attraction between her hero and heroine shows her skill as an author…”— Babbling About Books, and More “The imagery that Monica Burns paints of Morocco and its people is mesmerizing. So captivating is the love story that is truly romance at its best, purest and most captivating that you will regret not absorbing every word on the page.” — Book Junkie“The romance is passionate and the end is heartbreaking, leaving the reader in a puddled mush of tears and smiles.” — Lovin’ Me Some Romance “Kismet is a strong debut, and a strong historical romance in general, and Burns has a charismatic and confident writing style.” — Sacramento Book Review“Burns has crafted a sensual tale set in the mysterious deserts of Morocco, populating the story with characters that are authentic to their culture and demonstrating that a love that brings out the best in people…” — Book Binge“There are fewer things finer than discovering a new author!” — Ramblings on Romance, etc. etc“KISMET is an epic romance that brings to life the vibrant land of Morocco and its people….

Bargaining With a Rake


Julie Johnstone - 2012
    Now, faced with an unwelcome marriage that will chain her to London and the secret slowly killing her, she’s desperate to save herself and the sister she adores. Salvation comes in the form of an American shipping tycoon, and all she must do is seduce him into marrying her. But Gillian’s scheme hits a snag when she makes a bargain with a notorious rake, Alexander Trevelle, Lord Lionhurst. He agrees to help her win the hand of his American friend, if she’ll assist him with exacting revenge against her unwanted fiancé. But the price of the pact may just be their hearts.

50 Ways to Ruin a Rake


Jade Lee - 2015
    She's looking for any excuse to go to London to meet more eligible men.Trevor has a problem…Trevor Anaedsley's grandfather has cut off his funds until such time as he gets engaged. Trevor escapes to the country—ostensibly to visit his old tutor, Mr. Smithson, but actually to duck his creditors—where he meets Smithson's lovely daughter, Mellie. The obvious solution is suddenly before him—but the lady has ideas of her own, and Trevor's going to have to measure up…

The Rogue Prince


Elise Marion - 2019
     A rakehell prince … Third son of the king of Cardenas, Prince Damien Rothchester is known for his drinking, gambling, and whoring. Knowing he will never inherit the throne, he goes about life feeling purposeless. But when he steps into a glittering ballroom on the night of his twenty-fifth birthday, the roguish young prince’s life will be forever changed. A fiery Gypsy dancer … When Esmeralda Amador steps into the king’s ballroom to perform for the prince’s twenty-fifth birthday, every eye in the room is upon her. One pair of eyes intrigues her most of all … those of Prince Damien, seeming to stare straight through to her soul. The two know nothing can ever come of their attraction; he is a prince, and she a Gypsy dancer. Yet, neither can seem to resist the passion that sparks when they are together, or the unmistakable call of destiny forcing their lives onto the same path. However, love is not the only thing destiny has in store … With a deadly plot against the royal family surrounding him in danger and intrigue, Damien will face a decision he never thought he would have to make. Will he step up to claim a responsibility that should never have fallen to the third son? Or will he abandon it to risk all for love? Previous published as The Third Son. Re-released in 2019 with all-new edits, content, cover, and title Royals of Cardenas Reading Order Book One: The Rogue Prince Book Two: The Awakened Prince (Coming March 15) Book Three: The Lady Warriors of Barony (Coming May 15) Book Four: Wild Gypsy Rose (Coming July 15) Book Five: The Gypsy Lord (Coming September 15) Bonus Novella: The Courtesan Royals of Cardenas Series Keywords Historical Romance Victorian Era Historical Fantasy Royalty and Aristocrats Fairytale Mystery Romantic Suspense

The Viscount in Hiding


Emma Evans - 2018
     Ashamed of his behaviour he hides away in his country seat, determined to become a sensible gentleman, no longer caught up by whichever eligible young lady catches his eye. The only problem? A beautiful tenant named Julia who is living in his gatehouse. William knows that he should have very little to do with his tenants but he simply cannot get her out of his mind. The more time he spends, the more he wants to know her despite their difference in status. A sudden accident leads to a whole new life for Julia, who is loathe to tell him much about herself, despite their intimate connection. When the truth finally comes out and Julia confesses all, William must decide what to do with the lady who has stolen his heart. Authors Note: This is a clean, stand-alone romance with an HEA. If you love clean Regency-era romances you will love The Viscount in Hiding!

Rogues Always Wear Black


Catherine Mayfair - 2020
    Until he meets Constance. Her strong spirit, quick tongue, and virtuous smile has him question honoring his oath of protecting her or fulfilling his own growing desire …Fearing that her stepfather will find her, Constance decides to trust Stephen and accepts his offer of protection. He is brave, handsome, and his kiss has caused a passion to emerge she did not know existed.Yet, doubts soon arise in her heart, and Constance's faith in Stephen is tested by his lingering touch, for her mother had always warned that Rogues Always Wear Black.The Princess Bride meets Robin Hood in this Steamy Regency Romance adventure.

The Lesson Plan


Jackie Barbosa - 2011
    THE LESSON PLAN is the first novella in the Lords of Lancashire trilogy. The first three chapters of HOT UNDER THE COLLAR, the secord Lords of Lancashire novella, is included at the end of this volume.COVER COPY:Despite her imminent debut, Miss Winifred Langston has no interest in trying on expensive ball gowns, learning intricate dance steps, or perfecting the one piece she can play on the pianoforte. Freddie would rather don a pair of breeches and go target shooting, fishing, or horseback riding—astride—than be anywhere near a ballroom or high tea. Rather than waste the last few days of her freedom on such pursuits, she invites her two closest friends to join her in one final caper.When Lord Conrad Pearce learns of Freddie’s plans, he decides it’s past time to teach his younger brother’s partner-in-crime a well-deserved lesson. But when he intercepts her, disguised as a highwayman, to demonstrate how dangerous and ill-advised her stunts are, he can’t resist the sensual beauty hidden beneath the maddening tomboy’s exterior. What began as one sort of lesson becomes quite another, as Conrad embarks on a comprehensive erotic tutorial of his surprisingly enthusiastic and adept student.Now, he only has to convince the irrepressible Freddie to trade her breeches and madcap ways for the gowns and domesticity she despises.

His Bride for the Taking


Tessa Dare - 2018
     Sebastian, Lord Byrne, has never been one for rules. He’s thought about touching Mary Clayton—a lot—and struggled to resist temptation. But when Mary’s bridegroom leaves her waiting the altar, only Sebastian can save her from ruin. By marrying her himself. In eleven years, he’s never laid a finger on his best friend’s sister. Now he’s going to take her with both hands. To have, to hold…and to love.