#the bareknuckle bastards

[sarahmaclean]

They say you have to put stuff into the universe, so...

Look: If Ben Barnes wants to play a sexy love interest with a happily ever after, The Bareknuckle Bastards (Devil) and the Hell's Belles (Clayborn) are right here waiting.

[petiteblasee]

SARAH MACLEAN CONTINUA ME MATANDO!Até o fim da leitura eu estarei completamente largada de tanto sofrimento com ewan e grace!

Ele foi o responsável por dar um nome à ela, quase a matou, passou duas décadas seguintes procurando por ela por não conseguir viver sem e agora descobriu que mentiram para ele e ela está viva!!!! Gritei junto quando ele descobriu a verdade 😭

[sarah-maclean-completist]

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[mermaidsirennikita]

Best historical romance retellings/takes on Beauty and the Beast?

The Wickedness of a Highlander was just discussed in a previous ask, but that one is very much a clear BatB vibe! He's not ugly, but he is big (over 6'5" lmao) and growly and grumpy and sorta semi traps her. She's beautiful and fixes his place up and is obsessed with roses. The intention is clear lol

The Bastard by S.M. LaViolette has big shades of this. The hero is this hulking bareknuckle boxer-turned-successful-businessman (with Glasgow grin scars) who's out for revenge against his biological father, which leads to him ruining his father's wife (not the hero's mother). The wife's sister is this sweet woman who basically agrees to marry him (he's very smitten) in order to get the dogs called off. It gives that sort of "bargain" vibe, and there's a lot of healing power of love stuff. This hero has one of the most traumatic backstories I've ever read. So! Tbh I got the revenge!

The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare, of ocurse. The hero is very scarred and needs a wife for an heir, so ends up just marrying the woman who made his fiancee's wedding dress after said fiancee jilts him (due to his scars). A big reason why this makes me think BatB is that the hero initially just wants to have sex with the lights out, which reminds me a lot of the Cupid/Psyche stuff that predated BatB.

When Beauty Tamed the Beast by Lorraine Heath is obviously evocative of the fairy tale! Though this beast is very quickly QUITE sweet. Being a Lorraine Heath book, it made me highly emotional when the reason why he was so ostracized was revealed lol

My Darling Duke by Stacy Reid. I want to be careful as recommend this because to be clear: The hero is by no means "beastly". He's a hot duke. However, he thinks himself beastly because, following an injury, he's had to used a wheelchair and has limited mobility. It also has the whole "COME BACK TO MY PLACE OF LIVING AND STAY HERE AS A PART OF A DEAL GRR I'M V MEAN AND HATE BEING AROUND PEOPLE SO COME BE AROUND ME" thing.

(This book also has a really sensitive approach to the hero and heroine's sex life that I love. And it's also super hot.)

[fated-mates]

We're nearing the end of Season 6, and that means we're talking about one of Sarah's books! We're finishing up (or beginning?) the Bareknuckle Bastards series today with a deep dive of Sarah's Wicked and the Wallflower, the first in her Bareknuckle Bastards series--part Rumplestiltskin retelling, part Peaky Blinders fic, all justifiable face punching and ode to the darkness. This is the series she loves the best, and Jen just might agree.

[triviareads]

HR with criminal heroes please

Sure, with a couple criminal heroines added in for good measure:

The Queer Principles of Kit Webb by Cat Sebastian: I'm halfway through this book and I'm in love with Kit and Percy; Kit used to be a notorious highwayman and Percy tries to hire him for a heist except Kit can't do it anymore, so he decides to teach Percy how to pull it off instead

The Last Crimes of Peregrine Hind by Sierra Simone: Another highwayman hero; Peregrine is out for *revenge* against the Duke of Jarell except he accidentally kidnaps the duke's younger brother Alexander..... who is very much into this entire kidnapping situation, and Peregrine.

Earl of Every Sin by Scarlett Scott: Sandy aka Alessandro aka EL CORAZON OSCURO is a Spanish guerrillero during the Napoleonic wars and deeefinitely a war criminal based on what some of the other heroes in this series say about his activities during the Peninsular War.

Her Wanton Wager by Grace Callaway: Gavin Hunt is a gaming hell owner with criminal beginnings and a lot of criminal goons so I think he qualifies; he is trying to find the heroine Percy's brother to make him pay his debts, but Percy negotiates with him to hold off by agreeing to a bet that he'll leave her brother alone if she can't be seduced. This is one of my favorites by Grace and I'd highly recommend.

Devil of Downtown by Joanna Shupe: The hero in this book is notorious kingpin/gentleman gangster Jack Mulligan who falls HARD for do-gooder/rich girl/wannabe cop Justine. Immaculate bad boy/good girl vibes.

Sarah MacLean's Bareknuckle Bastards series has 3 siblings all of whom jointly run a criminal enterprise out of Covent Garden. They're all stellar (and super hot) but Brazen and the Beast is by far my favorite— he's the king of the underworld and she's a kickass businesswoman who accidentally meets the hero while he's tied up in her carriage. Spoiler alert, this isn't the last time he's tied up in this book 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas: We're veering into mostly "used to be a criminal" territory here; Derek used to be a criminal as well as a prostitute at some point in the past and he used that money as capital for his gaming hell. He's one of those heroes who is painfully aware of his background which is why he thinks he isn't good enough for Sarah Fielding (and Lily Lawson for that matter).

The entire Scoundrels of St. James Series by Lorraine Heath consists of heroes/a heroine who used to be pickpockets/street urchin criminals. Here are my favorites in the series:

Surrender to the Devil by Lorraine Heath: One of my all time favorites by Lorraine; Frannie used to be a pickpocket before she was taken in by her friend's noble grandfather. The hero Sterling is immediately drawn to her despite her past (or perhaps in part because of it) and despite the instant chemistry, she really makes him work for it, which I so appreciate.

Between the Devil and Desire by Lorraine Heath: Another former criminal/thief, Jack Dodger someone ends up being named guardian to a young duke and basically has to co-parent with the dowager duchess Olivia. This has another variation on the class-difference trope— Olivia haaaaaates how attracted she is to Jack and Jack thinks she's a stuck-up prude, and yet they really can't help themselves.

Also! Lorraine's The Duke and the Lady in Red features a heroine who is a con artist and tries to pull one over on the hero, except he ends up offering her a looooot of money to sleep with him for a week.

I keep saying I'm going to reread this because the last time I had pandemic brain, but Scandalous Desires by Elizabeth Hoyt has a (river) pirate hero!

[more-than-a-princess]

Hi! Love your sonia characterisation and from your ooc posting, I see your tastes are great~ Can I ask the mun: do you have any recommendations for books or TV series? c:

Hi anon! Thank you so much for your kind words regarding my IC content and OOC ramblings, that's really nice of you to say. I'm happy to recommend some things (I admit I did a 'Stitch laughing maniacally on a pile of wreckage' when I got this ask because anon, I am not sure you know what you have asked to unleash!).

However, I wasn't sure if you were asking for recommendations for books/TV series that have directly inspired my Sonia portrayal, or recommendations of things I enjoy in general. With that in mind, I'm going to be sharing a long list of books, TV series, manga/webtoons, and story-based video games that I just happen to like.

If you're looking for media that has directly inspired my portrayal though, please send another ask and I'd be happy to narrow it down for you!

In order not to keep the dash tidy, everything is under a cut, with notes (some important, some just me making jokes) beside a few of them. I hope you find a new favorite book/series to enjoy!

Books: 

General Notes: For book series where the first book title isn't the series name, I've indicated which book to start with, save for the historical romances because that's easier to find online and there's a lot of them. I hope that helps! Additionally, for all romance series, assume that there is some mention of sexual content in various degrees of description, aka. "spice." Depending on your comfort level of literary sex, I highly recommend checking out each title on https://www.romance.io/ for their spice level rating, at the very least. The site will also show you tropes found in each book as well as reviews.

Contemporary Romance:

The Time-Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

American Royals series by Katharine McGee

Crazy Rich Asians series by Kevin Kwan (way, way better than the movie! It's a trilogy, followed by China Rich Girlfriend and Rich People Problems. I'd highly recommend this if you are writing a modern wealthy character of East Asian descent. Yes it's romance, humor, and contemporary family drama, but it gives what's apparently a very accurate look at high society)

Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade (if you are looking for contemporary romance with plus size heroines, you want to check out Olivia Dade! Also Mary Warren and for young adult romance, Kelsie Stelting)

Modern Royals series by Aven Ellis (start with A Royal Shade of Blue)

The Royal Runaway by Lindsay Emory

The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan (and its sequel, The Heir Affair)

One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston (this was better than Red, White, and Royal Blue, IMO)

Fantasy Romance:

Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas

Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas

A note about SJM series: I highly suggest reading TOG or ACOTAR first, with the understanding the first three or so TOG books and the first ACOTAR books have a slower pace and are more about worldbuilding than anything else. Read Crescent City after these two (CC 1 is also a big, long worldbuilding book). You must read ACOTAR to read CC, but you do not need to read TOG to read CC (though you'll miss some of the references/easter eggs!). 

The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros (Start with Fourth Wing)

The Shepherd King duology by Rachel Gillig (Start with One Dark Window)

The All-Souls Trilogy/series by Deborah Harkness (Start with A Discovery of Witches)

Historical Romance:

Don't Want You Like a Best Friend by Emma Alban

Love by Numbers series by Sarah MacLean (start with Nine Rules to Break While Romancing a Rake. If you finish this series and like her writing, move on to the Bareknuckle Bastards series and the Rules of Scoundrels series)

Spindle Cove series by Tessa Dare (start with A Night to Surrender. If you liked this series, move on to the Castles Ever After series and the Girl Meets Duke series)

pretty much anything by Lisa Kleypas (Bridgerton fans? This is how you get over your hangover/wait between finishing the books and/or Season 3. start with the Wallflowers or the Hathaways series, then move onto the Ravenels and the Bow Street Runners series. This is mostly historically the chronological order with crossover characters between the Wallflowers and Hathaways. Bow Street Runners is chronologically before Wallflowers but it's disappointing if you read it first, trust me!)

everything by Jane Austen. Just everything. 

Series/books I'm in the middle of/currently on my TBR list so I can't recommend them fully yet but I'm actively reading them:

The Folk of the Air series by Holly Black (start with The Cruel Prince)

Letters of Enchantment duology by Rebecca Ross (start with Divine Rivals)

Crowns of Nyaxia series by Carissa Broadbent (Start with The Serpent and the Wings of Night)

Hades x Persephone saga by Scarlett St. Clair (Start with A Touch of Darkness)

The Shadow and Bone trilogy by Leigh Bardugo (and Six of Crows. And everything else: I've yet to dive into Bardugo's series) 

A League of Extraordinary Women series by Evie Dunmore (Start with Bringing Down the Duke)

Royals series by Rachel Hawkins (start with Prince Charming)

Infamous by Lex Croucher

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Deliciously Dark Fairytales series by K.F. Greene (Start with A Ruin of Roses)

TV series:

Downton Abbey (my love for this show runs deep. It changed my life!)

The Gilded Age (Carrie Coon deserves an Emmy for this at some point I s2g)

The Crown (Claire Foy is the best QEII, Elizabeth Debicki is the best Diana, Josh O'Connor is the best Charles)

Gossip Girl (original 2007 series, not the remake)

The Royals (the E! show)

Succession (Come for Brian Cox emotionally and verbally harass his children, stay for Kieran Culkin, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, Matthew MacFayden, Conheads, and a Ludicrously Capacious Bag.)

The White Lotus (Tanya is ICONIC.)

Miss Scarlet and the Duke

Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (If you like Miss Scarlet, I can almost guarantee you will like Miss Fisher. And vice-versa.)

All Creatures Great and Small (the remake)

Sanditon

Black Mirror

Skins (UK series only)

Sex Education

The IT Crowd (the creator is an ass. The show is eternal.)

The Great

The Sopranos

The Empress

The Fall of the House of Usher

Midnight Mass (arguably the best Flanagan series. Fight me.)

Marie Antoinette (2022 TV series)

Dickinson

Euphoria

Stranger Things

The Tudors

Versailles

Unforgotten

Endeavour (you don't need to have seen Inspector Morse beforehand but it helps contextualize where some of this cast ends up in the future! Endeavour is the best murder mystery show ever written, IMO. Unforgotten is a close contender for second place.)

Outlander

Sherlock

Mad Men

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

American Horror Story (earlier seasons are way better than the later ones)

Gentleman Jack

Ted Lasso

Emily in Paris

Pride and Prejudice (the 1995 miniseries with Colin Firth)

Books and TV (that is, read and watch both!):

Bridgerton (books by Julia Quinn)

Magpie Murders (books by Anthony Horowitz. One of my few book recs that isn't a romance! Horowitz is a wonderful contemporary mystery writer)

Webtoons/manga:

(Because some people prefer manga/webtoons to novels! I have read all of these on MangaKatana. Mostly fantasy romance and contemporary romance, several have been made into J or K-dramas)

Under The Oak Tree

See You In My 19th Life

What's Wrong With Secretary Kim?

Like Wind on a Dry Branch

Marriage of Convenience

Father, I Don't Want to Get Married!

We Are Not Ourselves Today

An Hour of Romance

Innocent (The sole historical drama over here. Every sex and violence trigger warning you can imagine applies to this manga. It is also one of the most beautifully-drawn and intriguing stories I've ever read. Rose of Versailles fans, this is for you: this is your fave but darker.)

Marry My Husband

Video games with excellent storytelling:

(mostly. These are primarily otome games, mystery visual novels, and horror visual novels):

Zero Escape: The Nonary Games (there are three games in this series: 999, Virtue's Last Reward, and Zero Time Dilemma)

AI: The Somnium Files (There are currently two games in this series, AITSF and AITSF: Nirvana Initiative. Zero Escape and Somnium Files are basically required to play after Danganronpa. I said what I said: the storytelling is better)

Code: Realize (The best storytelling of all otome games, hands down. Do not watch the anime: it sucks. The first game is the best and really the only one you need to play. The other two games have okay side stories and are mostly romantic continuations of the first game's routes)

Collar x Malice

Cupid Parasite (mostly for the last two routes, though: if you're using a walkthrough guide. Generally much lighter than your usual otome...save for the last two routes that serve to break you.)

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (you could watch both seasons of the original anime if you really want to, but the games are better)

Umineko no Naku Koro ni (Note: please keep in mind this was written 10+ years ago in Japan, especially when you get to the Big Reveals in the final game. There are Some Takes that would go over poorly today. Like Code: Realize, do not watch the anime: IT SUCKS.)

Spirit Hunter: Death Mark

Spirit Hunter: NG (You don't technically have to play Death Mark first but it makes one of the endings far more impactful if you do!)

Honorable mentions:

Hakuoki (so many routes, so very long! But if you like Japanese history around this time, you may like this)

Olympia Soiree (good on the more mature content, bad on some of the LIs giving me pause like 'this is not a good romance idea')

Amnesia: Memories (I'm not a fan of the female main character or two of the LIs. At all.)

Piofiore (Similar complaints as Amnesia.)

[mediaevalmusereads]

A few recs for my followers, if interested:

KJ Charles, Olivia Waite, and Cat Sebastian all write queer/lgbt+ romances set in the 19th century (some will be Regency, some later). Charles in particular has a whole series (Society of Gentlemen) which might work for you (though some characters are upper class).

Courtney Milan usually has stories set post-Regency, but not quite full-blown Victorian. Some good ones without upper class: The Marquis Who Mustn't (no actual marquis), The Devil Comes Courting, and The Governess Affair. Unraveled is also good.

If you don't mind moving away from England, try Beverly Jenkins and Alyssa Cole. They write about the Old West, the Civil War, etc. 19th Century America.

Tess Dare has a couple, but my favorite is Beauty and the Blacksmith. A Lady By Midnight might also work for you, though there are some upper class shenanigans in that one.

Mimi Matthews has a few, though they're later than Regency. Try The Siren of Sussex first.

Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypas features a heroine whose family is on the brink of ruin. She grapples with the benefits of marrying a man who isn't a member of the peerage. He's rich, but owns a business, so it's up to you if that counts as upper class.

The Rakess by Scarlett Peckham features a lady libertine and an architect.

Rose Lerner has a few romances about working class people all set in the same town (Lively St. Lemeston). I liked True Pretenses and Sweet Disorder, though all are very charming. I haven't read Listen to the Moon yet, but it might be more your speed.

Sarah MacLean's Bareknuckle Bastards series was fun, though it features the children of a duke. Most of them grew up on the streets, however, and have no connection to their father.

I think Elizabeth Essex has some featuring naval officers, though I'm not the most enthusiastic fan of her writing.

i wish regency era romance novels weren’t all about rich upper class people. less romancing a random duke and more romancing the hot rousseauist guy who holds seditious gatherings in his home in sheffield. there should be a romance novel about the london corresponding society

[pagebypagereviews]

Brazen and the Beast is not just a whirlwind romance set amidst the sultry backdrop of Regency London; it's a veritable clash of wills that ensnares readers in a dance of power, passion, and transformation. The second installment in Sarah MacLean's acclaimed The Bareknuckle Bastards series, this novel delivers an enthralling tale of a fierce heroine and a formidable hero whose lives intertwine in a narrative as enchanting as it is empowering. At its heart, the story tackles the very essence of unyielding desire and the pursuit of personal agency in a world hemmed in by stringent societal expectations, offering solutions to the timeless struggle for autonomy and love. With Brazen and the Beast, MacLean weaves a story that not only captivates with its fiery romantic interludes but also addresses the constraints faced by women and men alike in the rigid class structures of 19th-century England. Lady Henrietta Sedley, the novel's protagonist, yearns for independence and control over her destiny at a time when women's roles were largely prescribed. Meanwhile, 'Whit' — the titular 'Beast' — is no mere foil, but a man ensnared within his own battles. Together, they navigate the murky waters of London's underworld and high society. This much-anticipated sequel thus stands out by offering readers a potent cocktail of seduction and societal critique, presenting love as a catalyst for personal revolution and social change. Plot The plot of "Brazen and the Beast" by Sarah MacLean is characterized by a fast-paced and intelligently woven narrative that combines romance and intrigue. Set in 1837 London, the story revolves around the fiery and determined heroine, Lady Henrietta "Hattie" Sedley, and the enigmatic and rugged hero, "Beast" aka Whit, a king of Covent Garden and part of the Bareknuckle Bastards. The novel kicks off as Hattie decides to claim her inheritance and embrace her independence, aiming for what she dubs as the 'Year of Hattie'. Her plans, however, take an unexpected turn when she finds Whit unconscious in her carriage. This discovery propels them into a struggle for power and control, as Hattie and Whit are both headstrong, commanding individuals. As the plot unfolds, a delicate dance of dominance and submission unravels between the two protagonists, where secrets are unearthed, and past shadows return to challenge their burgeoning relationship. The story is a tangle of stolen moments, seduction, and layers of betrayal as Hattie and Whit navigate personal ambitions, family feuds, and societal expectations, culminating in a potent mix of passion, growth, and resolve that encapsulates their romance. Characters Characters in "Brazen and the Beast" are richly developed with distinctive personalities and backstories that intertwine with the novel's central plot. Hattie Sedley, the protagonist, is a strong-willed, independent woman who challenges the gender norms of her time. She is also clever and business-savvy, determined to take control of her life. Whit, known as the Beast, is a complex character with a gruff exterior that masks deep-seated vulnerabilities and a fierce sense of loyalty. He is a self-made man with a rough background, shaping him into the formidable but hidden power broker of London's underworld. Hattie's brother, Augie, is another essential character who offers a touch of familial loyalty and conflict to the story. Whits' siblings, Devil and Grace, also feature prominently, linking the tale to the wider series’ arc. Nora, Hattie's best friend, is both a confidante and a sparring partner, providing humor and wisdom. The secondary characters, including the villains and members of the underworld, are not mere placeholders; they offer a rich tableau that adds depth and intrigue, driving the narrative forward with their own motives and interactions with the central characters. Writing Style Sarah MacLean’s writing style in "Brazen and the Beast" is engaging and vivid, drawing readers into the atmospheric world of Regency London.

She employs a lyrical and expressive prose that captures the intensity of emotion between Hattie and Whit. The dialogue is sharp and witty, often baring undercurrents of deeper emotional struggles, and the banter between characters is one of the book's highlights. MacLean uses a dual third-person perspective that allows readers to delve into the thoughts and feelings of both Hattie and Whit, providing a balanced insight into their burgeoning romance and individual growth. The writing is both lush and evocative, with a keen attention to historical detail that doesn’t overwhelm the story but enhances the setting and mood. The pacing is adeptly managed, with action sequences, romantic encounters, and revelatory moments all crafted to maintain momentum and keep readers invested in the unfolding drama. Setting The setting of "Brazen and the Beast" is intricately rendered, highlighting both the opulence and the underbelly of Regency London. The contrast between the glittering ballrooms of the ton and the gritty streets of Covent Garden serves to create a dynamic backdrop for the story. MacLean meticulously crafts each scene, whether it’s Hattie’s lush, sheltered world or the perilous, unforgiving territory that Whit commands. The streets are teeming with life, from vendors to thieves, establishing a vivid sense of place. The reader is transported to the docks, where the intrigue of international shipping merges with the clandestine activities of the underworld. MacLean's authentic portrayal of the setting grounds the novel, with historical elements like the rise of industry, trade, and the changing social landscape of the era subtly woven into the narrative. Such details enrich the reader’s understanding of the characters' decisions and the stakes at hand. Unique Aspects "Brazen and the Beast" offers several unique aspects that set it apart from typical historical romances. Firstly, Hattie’s character defies the era’s expectations of women both in her ambitions and her forthright sexuality, offering a refreshing and feminist take on the genre. The book explores themes of power and agency with Hattie striving for control over her own life and business in a male-dominated society. The juxtaposition of Whit’s underworld influence with Hattie’s reputable business aspirations creates a compelling contrast between their worlds. Additionally, MacLean avoids the common cliché of the ‘rake’ hero; instead, Whit’s 'Beast' persona hides not a womanizer but a deeply honorable and principally sound character. The Bareknuckle Bastards element introduces a family dynamic born out of shared hardship, underscoring themes of loyalty and the chosen family. MacLean's handling of sibling relationships adds a rich layer to the narrative, exploring the complexities of family ties and the lengths to which characters will go to protect one another. Lastly, the novel challenges the traditional damsel in distress trope as Hattie often finds herself rescuing Whit instead, subverting typical gender roles and making "Brazen and the Beast" a standout story for readers who enjoy strong female leads and equitable romantic partnerships. Similar to Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2 Book Review ```html Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2 Review .review-table border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; .review-table th, .review-table td border: 1px solid black; padding: 8px; text-align: left; .review-table th background-color: #f2f2f2; .pros-cons-container margin-bottom: 20px; .pros-cons-heading font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; margin-top: 0; Pros Pro Impact on User Experience Engaging Storyline Keeps the reader captivated and enhances enjoyment. Strong Female Lead Encourages empowerment and appeals to readers looking for feminist themes. Detailed World-Building Creates a vivid setting that enhances immersion into the narrative. Sizzling Chemistry Engages reader emotions and investment in the romantic plot.

Diverse Cast of Characters Reflects a range of perspectives, adding depth to the story. Cons Con Impact on User Experience Tropes May Feel Overused May diminish originality for seasoned readers of the genre. Predictable Plot Points Can reduce suspense and thrill for some readers, making the story less engaging. Limited Character Development Some secondary characters may feel underdeveloped, impacting the story's depth. Pacing Issues May affect reader engagement and potentially disrupt the flow of reading. Graphic Scenes May not appeal to all readers and could restrict the book's audience. ``` Please note that the contents inside the ` ` elements are fictional examples to illustrate how to present the review using HTML and to provide you with a template for writing your own content. You can replace these with specific pros and cons tailored to your review of "Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2". Analyzing the Genre and Trope Preferences The first step in considering whether "Brazen and the Beast" is the right choice for you is understanding your preference for romance subgenres. Written by Sarah MacLean, the novel is a historical romance set in Regency England, with a strong emphasis on the "Bareknuckle Bastards" - a world of underground boxing and gritty London streets. If your interest lies in vividly depicted period settings with a dash of danger and brotherhood bonds, this book aligns well with those themes. It's also important to consider whether you appreciate strong and independent heroines and tortured heroes, as the novel's protagonists, Lady Henrietta "Hattie" Sedley and Whit, known as "Beast," embody these characteristics. Evaluating the Author's Style and Previous Works Sarah MacLean has a distinct writing style characterized by rich descriptions, witty banter, and intricate character development. If these are elements you enjoy in a romance novel, this might tip the scales in favor of purchase. Additionally, it's advantageous to look at MacLean’s previous works, such as "Wicked and the Wallflower," the first book in the Bareknibble Bastards series. If you found yourself enjoying that novel, the continuity in style and character progression in "Brazen and the Beast" would likely appeal to you as well. Understanding the Series and Standalone Potential Even though "Brazen and the Beast" is the second book in a series, potential readers should consider if it can be enjoyed independently. Some series require you to read from the beginning to fully grasp the context, while others craft each installment with a strong standalone narrative. This particular book provides enough background to allow new readers to dive in without feeling lost but contains references to events and characters introduced in the first book that are better appreciated with prior knowledge of the series. Considering Reviews and Community Feedback One of the most reliable ways to gauge whether a book is a good fit for you is to consult reviews and feedback from the community. Look for comments from readers who have similar tastes to yours. Pay attention to critiques concerning pacing, character dynamics, and plot development. If the majority of feedback resonates with positive experiences that align with what you're looking for in a story, it can be a strong indication that the book is worth your investment. Assessing the Physical Book Quality and Format Availability For some, the physical quality and formatting of a book influence the reading experience. Check the options for "Brazzen and the Beast": it is available in hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats to accommodate various preferences. The hardcover might offer a more durable and collectible option, while the ebook and audiobook provide convenience for readers on the go. Examine the print size, paper quality, and binding if you’re considering a physical copy to ensure it meets your standards. Price Point and Budget Considerations Your budget is a crucial factor in any buying guide.

Compare the pricing of "Brazen and the Beast" across different retailers to find the best deal. Subscription services may offer the ebook or audiobook at a fraction of the cost, while libraries could be an alternative for those looking to experience the novel without outright purchase. Keep an eye out for sales or bundled deals, especially if you're planning to explore more titles within the Bareknuckle Bastards series. Exploring Additional Content and Companion Works Finally, consider if the universe of the Bareknuckle Bastards offers additional content that adds value to your reading experience. Companion novellas, author’s notes, and interviews can provide deeper insight into the characters and setting. Fans who enjoy delving into the creation process or exploring supplementary stories will find this aspect particularly rewarding when choosing to invest in "Brazen and the Beast." ```html FAQ for Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2 Book Review Is "Brazen and the Beast" the first book in a series, or can it be read as a standalone? "Brazen and the Beast" is the second book in The Bareknuckle Bastards series by Sarah MacLean. While it contains its own complete story and can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, reading the first book, "Wicked and the Wallflower," may enhance the reader's understanding of the world and character relationships. Do I need to read "Wicked and the Wallflower" before "Brazen and the Beast"? It is not strictly necessary to read "Wicked and the Wallflower" before "Brazen and the Beast," as each book focuses on different protagonists. However, to fully appreciate the character development and overarching plot lines, it is recommended to read the series in order. Can "Brazen and the Beast" be recommended for new readers of historical romance? Absolutely! Sarah MacLean's writing style is accessible and engaging, making "Brazen and the Beast" a great choice for newcomers to the historical romance genre. The strong characters, vivid setting, and passionate romance are sure to captivate readers. What are the central themes in "Brazen and the Beast"? The novel explores themes of independence, ambition, power dynamics within relationships, and the societal constraints of the Regency-era. It also touches upon themes like family loyalty and the quest for personal fulfillment. Is there any content in "Brazen and the Beast" that may be considered inappropriate for some readers? "Brazen and the Beast" is an adult historical romance novel, and as such, it contains explicit love scenes and mature themes. Readers who prefer to avoid such content may want to consider this before reading. Are there any trigger warnings for "Brazen and the Beast"? Potential trigger warnings may include violence, past trauma, and sexual content. If you're concerned about specific triggers, you might want to look up further reviews or seek a content guide before reading. How is the representation of female characters in "Brazen and the Beast"? The book features strong female characters who challenge the roles society has imposed on them. The protagonist, Hattie, is portrayed as a determined and capable woman pursuing her independence and personal goals. Is there a happy ending in "Brazen and the Beast"? As a historical romance novel, readers can generally expect a happy ending. Without giving too much away, "Brazen and the Beast" follows the conventions of the genre, aiming to leave readers satisfied with the conclusion. Will there be another book in The Bareknuckle Bastards series after "Brazen and the Beast"? Yes, there is a third book in the series titled "Daring and the Duke." It follows the story of another key character in the Bareknuckle Bastards world. ``` In conclusion, "Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2" stands out as an exhilarating historical romance that offers a compelling blend of passion, empowerment, and intrigue. This novel by Sarah MacLean offers

readers not just a captivating storyline but a refreshing take on the genre, showcasing strong, multifaceted characters that challenge conventions. The well-crafted plot, infused with feminist undertones, makes it a valuable read for anyone seeking a romance that champions a powerful, intelligent heroine alongside a brooding yet equitable hero. The chemistry between Hattie and Whit is undeniable and expertly developed, ensuring that their journey is not just about love, but also about personal growth and societal defiance. Moreover, MacLean's sharp wit and rich historical details provide both entertainment and insight, creating a vibrant world that draws readers into the heart of Regency London's shadowy corners and glittering ballrooms. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of historical romance or new to the genre, "Brazen and the Beast" promises a rewarding experience replete with action, character development, and a balanced power dynamic rarely seen in traditional love stories. Listening to the roaring call of the Bareknuckle Bastards series through Hattie's quest for independence and Whit's entangled honor is a journey worth savoring. This book is not only an enjoyable escape but offers insights and benefits like a potent reminder of the strength within us to challenge societal expectations and to carve out our destinies with courage and resilience. Other Brazen and the Beast: The Bareknuckle Bastards, Book 2 Book Review buying options

[familyvideostevie]

📚 or 🎧 to sit in the sun and read or listen to musicsend this and a little bit about your taste to get a personalized book or song recommendation.

I'm more of a sci-fi girlie but I love reading romance too. Given if it's not a YA :)

okay!! i've been sitting on this to get you a good list. here are a few of my faves! i've tried to give you a mix of stuff so apologies if you've read any of this before :)

SCI-FI:

The Locked Tomb series by Tamsyn Muir: Three books so far, starting with Gideon the Ninth. I think this series is like, the the future of sci-fi (it really edges into fantasy but I think it's both!!!)? It's based in space necromancy but is also about politics, family, war, and sacrifice -- it's written in perhaps the most clever/confusing style. Really innovative and mind-blowing, in my opinion.

Emily St. John Mandel: Her stuff is pretty solidly literary fiction but it's sci-fi literary fiction. Station Eleven is one of my favorite books and I also loved The Glass Hotel and Sea of Tranquility.

Jeff VanderMeer: Jeff is my HOMIE. Probably one of my fave contemporary scifi writers, his books are all about the environment and biology and how humanity and nature interact. They are also pretty brutal and creepy, but I've loved everything I've read. Start with The Southern Reach trilogy, which begins with Annihilation.

ROMANCE:

Just a note here that I read mostly traditionally published romance. There is a lot of good romance that is independently published or published by small presses -- they take some digging to find and are often only available as ebooks from ebook retailers but worth looking for if you have specific tropes you love.

I read a lot of the popular traditionally published romance authors (hello Emily Henry I love you) but here are some other romances I've liked in recent years:

contemporary romance:

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan

historical romance:

My favorite historical authors are Lisa Kleypas and Sarah MacLean. Lisa's Wallflower series is really great and Sarah's Bareknuckle Bastards series is my favorite (the first two books, anyway). Other authors to check out are Tessa Dare, Beverly Jenkins, and Olivia Waite. There is so much out there!

join the celebration!

[ipoddymouth]

hi do you have any book recs? 🩷 i have seen the books you’ve mentioned in your tags and 👀

i read really fast so i will admit to reading a lot of dogshit kindle books but some of my fave books i read last year are:

the fae isles series 1-3 - there's a prequel but i aint reading that shit jglagjrgljg. the fourth book comes out this year! (eye personally think these books are better written than the acotar books even tho the second acotar (i still dont know which one it is gjlargjrlgja) is one of my fave books of all time)

the bareknuckled bastards book....i think the second one....about whit and hattie..... - which was rec'd to me by marisa (@marisa-writes). she sends me shit all the time lmfao so if you ever need romance recs go hit her up!!!!

a game of malice and greed by caroline peckham and susanne valenti - this shit was deadass a million pages long and took me a whole week and a half to read while sitting shotgun driving across the country but when i finished it i out loud said 'that really was a game of malice and greed, huh?'

reign by roxie noir - i actually dont think this was my favorite book of hers but it was interesting and i like her writing style bc i bought like three of her other books after reading this one

there's also this scifi book i read but i 100% do not remember the name; will update if i do bc it had like...nothing to do with anything else i read just a straight up random scifi book

i read a lot of romance/romantasy last year and these were all on my kindle. but i ALSO read a fuck ton of graphic novels (my fave is manifest destiny currently but i live in the midwest so like......lmao).

[petiteblasee]

E quanto a você? Você vai se entregar a ela, também? – Eu nunca serei de outra coisa que não seja dela.

*:･ﾟ✧ A Dama e o Monstro [Bastardos Impiedosos #2] - Sarah MacLean.

[sarah-maclean-completist]

The Years of Hattie

[mediaevalmusereads]

In case anyone is interested.

Historical Romance Books where the characters are older:

-Fair, Bright, and Terrible by Elizabeth Kingston (both in their 40s)

-Waiting for a Scot Like You by Eva Leigh (don't remember the ages, but the heroine is in her 40s and older than the hero by I think 10 years)

-Mrs. Martin's Incomparable Adventure by Courtney Milan (Sapphic, 73 and 69)

-The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt (both in their 30s)

-A Seditious Affair by KJ Charles (mlm, 30s and 40s, I believe) though other books also have older characters

-The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan (both characters in their 30s?)

-Bareknuckle Bastards Series by Sarah MacLean (I think all characters are at least 30)

I can probably grab more, but this is off the top of my head.

romance novels love to tell you a character is a late bloomer because they don't meet the love of their life until they're twenty-four

[mermaidsirennikita]

hello! i'm slowly working my way through your recs and i'm having a wonderful time, you really do have amazing taste, and was wondering if you could rec any stories similar to the Victorian Prizefighters series by Alice Coldbreath? Thank you so much <3

I'm glad you're enjoying the books, thank you!

So here's the truth lol: I haven't read those books yet! I will try 'em out eventually, but for noooow I'm going to try to go off of some books with fighters!

The Bastard by S.M. LaViolette. John is a former fighter who has made his way up in the world and is seeking revenge against his biological father (a duke). In the process, he becomes obsessed with Cordelia, his father's sister-in-law (so his aunt by marriage I guess; whatever, she's younger than him, they're not related by blood, I don't care) a sweet, innocent woman who's ~too pure for him. Nonetheless, when he actually financially ruins the family, she comes to him basically offering to marry him in order to save them. It's GREAT. Pretty dark in terms of backstory, but the romance is actually quite sweet and John is a big believer in getting women off. Which. Good for him!

No Good Duke Goes Unpunished by Sarah MacLean is another one where he's a fighter, albeit with a very different scenario. He was suspected of murdering the heroine, his father's fiancee, years ago. She actually faked her death (framing him was unintentional but she didn't come back to fix it). Anyway, he finds out she's still alive later and the tension is QUITE a bit.

Obviously, Sarah MacLean's Bareknuckle Bastards series involves QUITE a bit of fighting activity, especially the second one (Brazen and The Beast). Would ABSOLUTELY recommend.

You may also want to try Seduce Me at Sunrise by Lisa Kleypas, The Prince of Broadway by Joanna Shupe, and The Queer Principles of Kit Webb by Cat Sebastian!