3.83
Part of "Company of Rogues" series
"Forbidden" by Jo Beverley is a captivating historical romance novel set in the tumultuous world of 17th century England. The story revolves around the lives of two protagonists, Antonia and Christopher, who are bound by a promise made in their childhood, which has far-reaching consequences in their adult lives. Antonia, a fiercely independent and intelligent woman, is the daughter of a disgraced courtier, while Christopher is the heir to a powerful and influential earldom. Despite their different social standings, the two share a deep bond, having grown up together in the same household. However, their promise to marry each other becomes a source of conflict when Christopher's family intervenes, forcing him to choose between his duty to his family and his loyalty to Antonia. Beverley's writing style is evocative and immersive, transporting readers to the world of Restoration England with its opulent courts, political intrigue, and social upheaval. The author's attention to detail is impressive, and she skillfully weaves historical facts and events into the narrative, adding depth and authenticity to the story. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and identity, as Antonia and Christopher navigate the complexities of their relationship and the demands of their social positions. Beverley's characters are well-developed and relatable, with strengths, weaknesses, and flaws that make them feel real and human. The author's portrayal of women in particular is noteworthy, as she depicts Antonia as a strong and capable heroine who challenges societal norms and expectations. "Forbidden" is a compelling and engaging read that will appeal to fans of historical romance and anyone looking for a well-crafted and thought-provoking novel. Beverley's storytelling is masterful, and she skillfully balances romance, drama, and historical detail to create a captivating and unforgettable tale...
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
The Flame and the Flower
If you enjoyed the sweeping romance and historical setting of 'Forbidden', you'll love 'The Flame and the Flower'. This classic romance novel tells the story of Heather Simmons, a young woman who is kidnapped by a sea captain named Brandon Birmingham. Despite the circumstances, the two fall deeply in love, but their relationship is threatened by Brandon's past and the societal norms of the time. With its passionate love story and vivid historical details, this book is a must-read for fans of Jo Beverley.
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For readers who enjoyed the witty banter and simmering sexual tension of 'Forbidden', 'Devil in Winter' is a great choice. This historical romance novel tells the story of Sebastian, the Duke of Kingston, who marries a wealthy wallflower named Evangeline. Despite their initial reservations, the two find themselves falling deeply in love, but their relationship is threatened by Sebastian's rakish past and Evangeline's desire for independence. With its sharp dialogue and steamy love scenes, this book is sure to please fans of Jo Beverley.
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If you're looking for a romance novel with a strong, independent heroine and a brooding, tortured hero, 'Lord of Scoundrels' is a great choice. This historical romance tells the story of Jessica Trent, who sets out to reform her brother's best friend, the notorious rake Sebastian Ballister. Despite his initial reluctance, Sebastian finds himself falling for Jessica, but their relationship is threatened by his dark past and her desire for a stable, respectable life. With its witty dialogue and passionate love scenes, this book is a great match for fans of Jo Beverley.
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For readers who enjoyed the sweeping romance and historical setting of 'Forbidden', 'The Maiden Bride' is a great choice. This classic romance novel tells the story of Margaret Montrose, a young woman who is forced to marry a stranger named Nicholas Eden. Despite their initial reservations, the two find themselves falling deeply in love, but their relationship is threatened by Nicholas's troubled past and Margaret's desire for independence. With its passionate love story and vivid historical details, this book is a must-read for fans of Jo Beverley.
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If you're looking for a romance novel with a strong, independent heroine and a brooding, tortured hero, 'The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever' is a great choice. This historical romance tells the story of Miranda Cheever, a young woman who has always lived in the shadow of her more beautiful and outgoing sister. However, when she meets a handsome and mysterious stranger named Nigel, she finds herself coming out of her shell. With its witty dialogue and passionate love scenes, this book is a great match for fans of Jo Beverley.
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For readers who enjoyed the historical setting and intrigue of 'Forbidden', 'The Devil in the Marshalsea' is a great choice. This historical mystery novel tells the story of Tom Hawkins, a young man who is sent to the Marshalsea debtors' prison. However, when he becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving the prison's corrupt governor, he must use all his wits to survive. With its vivid historical details and gripping plot, this book is a must-read for fans of Jo Beverley.
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