February may be coming to an end, but the romance doesn’t have to!
Valentine’s Day may now be history, but I’m looking at romance that takes place a little farther back. How far? The wild west, WWII, you name it! I’ve rounded up a list of five historical romances perfect to fall in love with. And who knows? There’s a good chance you’ll find your new favorite book right here on this list!
1. Hills of Nevermore by Janalyn Voigt
This wild west romance is based on actual historical events during a time of unrest in America. Taking place in an Idaho Territory boom town, this story is about a young widow who struggles with the feeling that she’s angered God—all while raising her baby, facing vigilante violence, and falling for a blue-eyed preacher. And the best part? Hills of Nevermore is only book one of a four-book series, so there’s much more to enjoy once you’ve devoured this book!
2. Dreams of My Heart by Barbara J. Scott
In this book, you’ll meet plucky Irish immigrant Kate O’Brien, who refuses to let another man control her life after the abuse she suffered from her stepfather. But when Kate is attacked by a drunken gang, she’s saved by a stranger who offers to spend the night in her cabin to keep her safe. But his kindness threatens Kate’s reputation, and suddenly Kate finds herself getting married to prevent the impending consequences. The first in the “Reluctant Brides” series, this is a must-read for lovers of romance.
3. The Plum Blooms in Winter by Linda Thompson
This Christy Award finalist is not one to miss!
Miyako Matsuura is a victim of the first U.S. bombing raid on Japan. Dave Delham is a former World War II pilot. Resolving to avenge her brother’s life, Miyako is bent on hunting Delham—even if it costs her own life. But the huntress soon becomes hunted in Osaka’s treacherous underworld.
“Linda Thompson attacks the publishing world like a Mitsubishi Zero swooping from the Japanese sky. The Plum Blooms In Winter proves a taut, crisp, debut achievement that colorfully evokes the Pacific theater of WWII. Start this one forewarned: it’s a stay-up-all-night read.”
– Jerry B. Jenkins, 21-Time New York Times bestselling author (Left Behind, et al)
4. Finding Love in Last Chance, California by Miralee Ferrell
This addition to the “Finding Love In …” series takes place in 1877 California. Protagonist Alexia Travers is alone in the world, burdened with a horse ranch after the death of her father. Instead of marrying her way out of trouble, she dons men’s clothing and rides the range herself. Help arrives when Justin Phillips, an acquaintance of her father’s, comes to Last Chance. The two must learn to depend on God—and each other.
Finding Love In… is a series of full-length romance novels, historical, contemporary, or suspense, that give readers a peek into local life across the United States. The novels are uniquely set in actual American locations that inspire romance and are just plain fun! This means that each fictional story draws on the compelling history or unique character of a real place.
5. The Widow’s Plight by Mary Davis
Lily has a secret she hopes doesn’t come to light, but that secret may cast a shadow on a bright future when she meets Edric. She falls in love with him and his two darling daughters, and Edric feels the same way—but he’s cautious about bringing another woman into his girls’ lives after the harshness of their own mother. This book confronts the struggles of hidden pasts, lost loves, and remarriage in the midst of a gripping romance story.
As a bonus, this book set in 1893 features the old art of quilting and the friendship of the quilting circle. It may just inspire you to start your own!
Have any more historical romance favorites to add? Let us know in the comments!
Megan Alms is the social media marketer for Mountain Brook Ink. She has experience in many areas of the publishing industry, including writing book proposals for a literary firm and publishing her own writing. Megan is a graduate of Taylor University’s Professional Writing program. During her free time, she can be found scrapbooking and working on craft projects at home in Indianapolis.
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