Books like 'By Design'
Readers who enjoyed By Design by Madeline Hunter also liked the following books featuring the same tropes, story themes, relationship dynamics and character types.
historical medieval class difference m-f tortured heroine angst caretaking forbidden love forced proximity competent heroine
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The Chemistry of Familiar Objects by Alexandra Vasti
57 Gresham Street is the most incendiary building in London. Upstairs, unconventional chemist Emmeline Starling uses combustion to solve scientific mysteries. Downstairs, buttoned-up children’s book printer Robert Vane tries very hard not to panic when the ceiling catches on fire. And when these two opposing forces are contained within one small building? Explosions are just the beginning... -
The Leviathan: The Blackchurch Guild: A Medieval Romance by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.74 of 5 stars · 16 ratingsWelcome to Book One in the exciting and diverse new series, The Blackchurch Guild: The Shadow Knights. Medieval England’s most elite training guild. The Blackchurch Guild is an elite knight training school. Men, and even women, are accepted into the program if they prove themselves worthy. Different from most training arenas in England, candidates don’t have to be from wealthy families... -
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A Song Unheard by Roseanna M. White
Willa Forsythe is both a violin prodigy and top-notch thief, which makes her the perfect choice for a crucial task at the outset of World War I--to steal a cypher from a famous violinist currently in Wales. Lukas De Wilde has enjoyed the life of fame he's won--until now, when being recognized nearly gets him killed. Everyone wants the key to his father's work as a cryptologist... -
Dark Warrior by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.73 of 5 stars · 13 ratingsIt’s the Dark Knight’s wild son, Cortland “Cort” de Russe in an adventure that could see him executed for treason. March Medieval Madness has arrived! 1518 A. D. – As a decorated knight for Henry VIII, Cort is sent to Ireland to assist the Earls of Kildare in ruling The Pale, the only strip of Ireland that the English ruled uncontested in the whole country... -
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The Highlander’s Accidental Wife by Lydia Kendall
Rated: 4.67 of 5 stars · 6 ratings“If I am to be your bride, you must promise me there will be no children for the first year. ”. Per the Queen’s Edict, any unwed Highland Laird must claim a bride from the English aristocracy…. Lady Helena would do anything to complete her dream -- even defy the Queen’s Edict. But her father's hounds are after her. So, she decides to ruin herself. . -
WolfeBorn: A Medieval Romance by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.75 of 5 stars · 11 ratingsPatrick de Wolfe’s (Nighthawk) youngest son, Titus, is front and center in this rip-roaring Medieval Romance that will have you on the edge of your seat! When a de Wolfe mates, he mates for life. And when he falls for a woman, he falls harder than most. But when a scorned woman is involved, anything can happen…. And usually does... -
The Black Dragon by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.82 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsGet ready for another passionate adventure from the Executioner Knights universe. It’s a battle for true love in this stunning and diverse Medieval epic set in Plantagenet England. Welcome to the world of THE BLACK DRAGON! Addax al-Kort was not born in England... -
The Crimson Shield: A Medieval Romance by Kathryn Le Veque
He’s an Executioner Knight with a royal secret that could blow England apart. She’s the last of the bloodlines from the High Kings of Ireland. Between the two of them, they have more royal blood in them than anyone alive, but royal blood can be far more of a curse and far less of a privilege when dealing with secrets that could bring down a kingdom... -
Starless by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.77 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsYou met Achilles and Susanna in Book Two of the Executioner Knights series – and sparks flew! Now, read their endearing and touching love story in ‘Starless’! The third Executioner Knight is in for a world of trouble…. Achilles de Dere is a stubborn knight prone to fighting - anywhere, anytime. If there is a punch to be thrown, it's usually from Achilles... -
The Black Storm by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.76 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsA powerful knight who has served two kings becomes a tournament champion, but will a meddlesome woman and a wicked opponent bring him the greatest defeat of his life? Will the lady he loves with his entire being slip through his fingers? Ridge de Reyne (from The Red Fury) served both Henry III and Alexander, King of Scotland, but royal appointments were ultimately not the life he wanted... -
One Wylde Knight by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.73 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsThe bigger and badder they are, the harder they fall. .. Dark, sultry, with a hint of fire in his blood from his Visigoth ancestors and a spark in his eye that betray his killer instincts, Thorington “Thor” de Reyne is the son of the Earl of Ashington and one of the greatest knights England has ever seen. His talent is unmatched, so much so that the king himself has demanded Thor’s service... -
Moonraker's Bride by Madeleine Brent
Born in a Mission in China, Lucy Waring finds herself with fifteen small children to feed and care for. The way she tackles this task leads to her being thrown into the grim prison of Chengfu, where she meets Nicholas Sabine - a man about to die. He asks her a cryptic riddle, the mystery of which echoes through all that befalls her in the months that follow. . -
The Country Bride by Dilly Court
Rated: 4.59 of 5 stars · 11 ratingsThe third book in the dramatic new Village Secrets trilogy from the Sunday Times bestselling author. The time had come to leave Creek Manor. Their relationship was doomed from the start, he was the master of the house and she the servant…. Summer, Little Creek 1879. For most of her life, Judy Begg has been a loyal servant at Creek Manor and to Jack Fox, its future lord... -
Sutton's Scoundrel by Scarlett Scott
Rated: 4.51 of 5 stars · 13 ratingsIn this deliciously steamy Regency romance from USA Today bestselling author Scarlett Scott, a lady determined to restore her reputation meets her match in a seductive East End rogue she can't deny. Dubbed Lady Scandal thanks to her gossip-stirring past, Portia Fairhaven, the widowed Countess of Blakewell, is no stranger to rumors and innuendos...Categorized as:
forbidden love m-f aristocratic heroine class difference highlander historical victorian regency -
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WolfeBite: A Medieval Romance by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.75 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsLeonidas de Wolfe is the son of a diplomat… but every inch the grandson of William de Wolfe. Beware of the wolfe BITE in the ultimate enemies-to-lovers romantic tale! As the son of Edward de Wolfe, Henry III and Edward I’s greatest diplomat, Leonidas has been in the heart of England’s politics since the beginning of his career... -
Sutton's Secrets by Scarlett Scott
From USA Today and Amazon Top 100 Bestselling author Scarlett Scott comes the sizzling, emotional conclusion to The Sinful Suttons series. .. Logan Sutton lives in the shadowy underworld of London, rooting out evil before it can strike. He’s a nameless enigma prowling the streets to keep the innocent safe. His next mission? Seducing a beauty with ties to the villains he’s out to destroy... -
The Queen and the Knave by Sarah M. Eden
Romance and mystery come full circle in the fifth and final book of Sarah M. Eden’s best-selling Victorian Proper Romance series. London, 1866. Móirín Donnelly has spent the last five years working in the shadows for the Dread Penny Society, but spending so much of her life in secret is taking a toll on her soul—and her heart... -
The Highlander’s Virgin Widow: A Highlanders Historical Romance Novel by Eloise Madigan
"I own this castle and everything in it. Including ye. ”. Widowed Lady Keira leads a happy life. .. Until an enemy Laird claims her castle. With nowhere to go, Keira vows to chase the ruthless man away by any means available. Including tapestries. .. and baby goats. And she must never surrender. No matter how much she burns for her unlikely -and temporary- roommate. .. ***... -
In the Dark with the Duke by Christi Caldwell
A lady of reserve and a fierce street fighter find common ground in the second Lost Lords of London novel by USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell. Eight years ago, Lady Lila March retreated to the safe shadows of her family’s estate after a devastating tragedy. Weary of being a whisper of her former self, she is determined to brave the dangers of the outside world again...Categorized as:
tortured heroine class difference m-f historical regency victorian tortured hero audiobook -
The Moonstone Major by Meara Platt
His scars ran deep. Only Chloe had the power to heal him. It is said moonstones shine brightest in the presence of true love. Will they shine for Chloe, the youngest of the Killigrew sisters, and Fionn, the battle-scarred hero who has closed himself off to love? Lady Chloe Killigrew is surprised to find herself much sought after in Moonstone Landing's elegant society... -
The Devil of Helburn by the Sea by Rebecca Ruger
Rated: 4.63 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsSparks fly when the mighty Caelen MacGaren meets Julia Caverhill when his army takes refuge inside her family’s stronghold. The green-eyed lass stirs long-dead fires inside him, but cruel manipulations work to keep them apart. Caelen wakes one morning, recalling only flashes and snippets of the splendid night passed, believing it had been Julia with whom he’d shared such passion... -
Taming His Wicked Duchess by Sadie Bosque
Mr. and Mrs. Smith meets Beauty and the Beast in this fiery enemies-to-lovers romance…. He’s married to a cold, opportunistic shrew. Dane, the Duke of Kensington, is having a very bad night. Not only is the musicale he attended exceptionally dull, but the after-party is deadly... -
One Night to Remember by Erica Ridley
Meet the unforgettable men of London's most notorious tavern, The Wicked Duke. Seductively handsome, with charm and wit to spare, one night with these rakes and rogues will never be enough…... -
Ruin Me, If You Dare by Alyssa Clarke
They are wallflowers, bluestockings, merry widows, and debutantes—members of a secret, exclusive Lady’s Club in Berkeley Square! There ladies indulge in daring wagers, learn to fight, read scandalous books, and learn the art of wooing the gentlemen they will bring to their knees…. A proper lord. A rebellious lady. A dare that could ruin them both. . -
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The Princess and the Rogue by Kate Bateman
A princess in disguise is forced to live with a rogue in order to protect her from danger in this fun, sexy regency romance. Bow Street agent Sebastien Wolff, Earl of Mowbray, doesn't believe in love―until a passionate kiss with a beautiful stranger in a brothel forces him to reconsider... -
Mrs. Milner Gets A Kitchen by Jane Hadley
St. Paul, Minnesota -. 1955 -. Marion Milner is the only divorcee she knows (other than her ex-husband, of course) and she’s sick and tired of being the target of all the neighborhood gossip...Categorized as:
class difference sweet-hero m-f working class hero historical beta-hero christmas 20th century -
The Secret of Clan Duncraig by Cecelia Mecca
Rated: 4.67 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsPassion ignites in the shadow of a family secret. . . Resilient young widow Maisie has sworn off love after enduring a forced marriage. But her life takes an unexpected turn when Kieran, a fierce and enigmatic Scottish warrior, arrives at the Red Stag Inn... -
While Angels Slept by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.44 of 5 stars · 9 ratings1139 A. D. – When her husband perishes in a skirmish, the Lady Cantia du Bexley Penden is distraught. Her husband was assisting the mighty Viscount Winterton in the battle for the throne between Empress Matilda and Stephen of Blois, caught, like most men, in a vicious struggle for the rightful ruler of England... -
Shadowmoor by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.44 of 5 stars · 9 ratings1236 A. D. - Daniel de Lohr, son of David de Lohr (STEELHEART, RISE OF THE DEFENDER, ARCHANGEL, UNENDING LOVE), is a highly trained knight of the highest order from one of the finest families in England. But he is also a wanderer, a gypsy, who prefers to travel rather than be tied down to one castle, one lord, or even one woman... -
Indecent by Darcy Burke
Rated: 4.44 of 5 stars · 9 ratingsSociety’s most exclusive invitation. .. Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances. If Bennet St... -
Kiss Me, My Duke by Fenna Edgewood
In this simmering steamy Regency romance by USA Today bestselling author Fenna Edgewood, a handsome but arrogant duke and a prim young housekeeper join forces in a dangerous endeavour… only to find out that falling in love will be the greatest risk of all. Lost: One duke's sister. Found: The unexpected love of a lifetime... -
The Cheapside Runners by Wade H. Mann
Fitzwilliam Darcy owes a debt to the most unexpected of men—a tradesman from Cheapside who rescued his sister from certain ruin. When Mr. Gardiner of the "Cheapside Runners" intervenes to stop George Wickham's scheme, Darcy must confront his own prejudices and failings...Categorized as:
m-f competent heroine strong heroine sweet-hero regency historical length-medium audiobook -
Always Remember: Ben's Story by Mary Balogh
Lady Jennifer Arden and Ben Ellis know that a match between them is out of the question. Yet their hearts yearn for the impossible. Discover a new heartwarming story from New York Times bestselling author and beloved “queen of Regency romance” Mary Balogh...Categorized as:
angst forbidden love sweet-hero competent heroine aristocratic heroine class difference m-f regency -
Her Wicked Rogue by Scarlett Scott
Archer Tierney has devoted his life to becoming one of the most powerful men in London. He’s cutthroat and merciless to anyone who crosses him and ruthless in his determination to always maintain the upper hand over friends and foes alike. There’s no situation he can’t control, no battle he can’t win... -
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The Hunt for Mr. October by Tabetha Waite
It had been the moment Elwood Tyburne, the Earl of Belmont, had been dreading for months. Ever since that Brazen Belle and her dastardly, Rake Review had started wreaking havoc upon all of his friends and acquaintances—some of which were wrongly accused—he had been in a state of panic... -
The Jade Temptress by Jeannie Lin
Welcome to the infamous Pingkang Li—home of the celebrated Lotus Palace courtesans, and a place of beauty and treachery. .. Charming and seductive, Mingyu is the most sought-after hostess in the pleasure quarter. She has all men wrapped around her finger—except Constable Wu Kaifeng, the one man she can't resist, the only man to have placed her in chains... -
Truth or Dare by Emma V. Leech
Rated: 4.30 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsSoon to be revealed! **** This is the eighteenth book in the series and focuses on the children of The Girls Who Dare series. They can be read separate from Girls Who Dare; however, for a more intimate experience, one should read the Girls Who Dare first. The reading order for Daring Daughters 'Heat rating of 3' -Spicy, descriptive and provocative, but not erotica. -
Beast: Great Bloodlines Converge by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 9 ratingsThe blood lines of seven great houses come together in the greatest knight of them all. Prepare yourself for the BEAST. Editorial reviews: "This is truly vintage Le Veque. This is the type of book that put her in the forefront of Medieval Romance writers. There is love, romance, political intrigue, knights fighting, knights drinking and laughing, a king that will grow up right in front of you... -
Fragments Of Grace by Kathryn Le Veque
Rated: 4.38 of 5 stars · 8 ratings1291 A. D. Keir St. Hever is a powerful garrison commander for Lord Coverdale on the border of the Cumbrian vales. Whilst attending battle, he receives word that his own castle is under attack. Keir returns to Pendragon Castle to discover that his wife and daughter have been murdered, and his young son is missing. So begins Keir’s descent into hell and despair... -
Tempting the Scoundrel by Katrina Kendrick
In the dark streets of London's East End, happy endings only exist in fairytales . . . HE IS THE KING OF THE CITY’S CRIMINAL UNDERWORLD. Nicholas Thorne has never been above lying, cheating, or stealing in his quest for power. So when a wealthy lord offers up a fortune to swindle his headstrong daughter into marriage, Nick takes it — only to end up falling head over heels in love with his mark... -
Two Dares, a Duke, and a Runaway Bride by Alyssa Clarke
After a botched elopement, Lady Evie hatches a daring impersonate the wife of a soon-to-depart duke to gain lodging at an inn. However, an unexpected storm traps them together, igniting undeniable chemistry. As their pretend marriage morphs into nights of fiery passion, Evie grapples with her growing feelings, fearing she's diving headlong into a love that promises only heartbreak...Categorized as:
forced proximity sweet-hero m-f competent heroine strong heroine historical regency length-novella -
Secrets of a Duke by Martha Keyes
Rated: 4.38 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsBy station, they’re worlds apart, but living under the same roof brings their hearts dangerously close. William Yorke faces a tall order: convince people he is worthy of the Dukedom of Rockwood that has unexpectedly fallen to him. Returning from London to his enormous estate, he breaks his journey at an inn and finds himself witness to a drunkard selling his wife to the highest bidder... -
The Irish Princess by Elizabeth Chadwick
Rated: 4.11 of 5 stars · 23 ratingsIreland, 1160. Aoife MacMurchada is just 14 years old when her father Diarmit, King of Leinster, is brutally deposed, and her family is forced to flee Southern Ireland into English exile. Diarmit seeks help from King Henry II, an alliance that leads him to the charismatic Richard de Clare, lord of Striguil, a man dissatisfied with his lot and open to new horizons... -
His By Opening Day by Kat Sterling
A wallflower desperate to avoid an engagement…. All Rosie Fontaine wants is to study her butterflies in peace. But as family pressure mounts to accept an unwanted marriage proposal by opening day of the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition, Rosie must convince everyone she’s not a social pariah... -
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Snowed In with the Viking by Lucy Morris
Rated: 4.50 of 5 stars · 5 ratingsAn intense forced-proximity story—with an enigmatic Viking stranger…Stranded in the ArcticWith a lone-wolf Viking! Lost in the remote wilderness in a snowstorm, Embla is rescued by local “Wildman” Runar and taken to his cabin—with just one bed! But as he warms her icy body with his, passion inflames them both… She’s been warned against this man her entire life—but as she realizes she could be...Categorized as:
forced proximity competent heroine sweet-hero medieval caretaking m-f forbidden love vikings -
Is This Real or Just Pretend? by Emily Sullivan
they thought they could fool everyone with a fake courtship, but they may be fooling only themselves. .. Alexandra Atkinson prides herself on being in control. It’s why she’s such an asset to her father’s investment firm—along with her utter lack of a social life and her talent for spotting successful ventures for investors... -
Highlander Entangled by Jayne Castel
All it takes is one careless encounter. She’s lonely, he’s reckless—it's a fatal combination. Passion and duty collide in Medieval Scotland. Maggie Munro is widowed, barren, and a burden on her resentful uncle. Still grieving the man she loved and lost, she expects to never feel passion again. But then she meets a charming warrior at a king’s council at Inverness... -
Gu Fang Bu Zi Shang, Vol.2 by Feng Nong
Rated: 4.22 of 5 stars · 9 ratingsBai Pingting has always been unable to believe the saying "a woman's virture is ignorance". She is a maid of Jing Anwang, but she lives even better than some wealthly women. She is also wiser than most men and she hopes for a higher intellect. Even if that man is an enemy, both are full of lies and conspiracies. She is not fond of that man... -
The Viking's Captive by Sandra Hill
Author's Note: This is a revised reissue of My Fair Viking which was published in April 2002 by Leisure Books. Tyra, Warrior Princess. She is too tall, too loud, too fierce to be a good catch. But her ailing father has decreed that her four younger sisters cannot be wed ’til Tyra consents to take a husband... -
Lord of the Shadows by Kathryn Le Veque, Andy A. Bufalo
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsThe year is 1215 A. D. , and the reign of King John means dark days for all of England. Not one man, woman or child lived without fear. Magnifying this fear is the man they call The Lord of the Shadows - a terrifying figure who sits at the right hand of the King, manipulating the royal moves like a puppet master...
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