I would say 'The Viscount Who Loved Me' by Julia Quinn is a great choice for a best second chance historical romance novel. Anthony and Kate have a somewhat adversarial start but then find their way back to each other. It's set in the Regency era which adds to the charm. 'A Duke in Shining Armor' by Loretta Chase is also good. The characters are given a second chance at love after some initial misunderstandings. And 'When He Was Wicked' by Julia Quinn has a second chance love story within the historical world of the Bridgerton series.
Well, 'Pride and Prejudice' can be considered in a sense. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy have a rough start but then get a second chance at a relationship. It's a classic historical romance. Also, 'Jane Eyre' has elements of second chances. Jane and Rochester's relationship goes through many upheavals, and they are given a second opportunity to be together. Then there's 'Gone with the Wind'. Scarlett and Rhett have a tumultuous relationship, and there are moments where they could be seen as having second chances within the historical context of the American Civil War and Reconstruction.
One great 'best second chance historical romance novel' is 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon. It has a strong second - chance element within its historical setting. Claire and Jamie have a complex relationship that endures across time and many trials. Another is 'The Bronze Horseman' by Paullina Simons. The characters are given a second chance at love in the midst of the chaos of World War II. And 'A Kingdom of Dreams' by Judith McNaught also falls into this category. The main characters get a second shot at their relationship against a backdrop of medieval Scotland.
I highly recommend 'The Underground Railroad'. It's not only a great work of historical fiction but also a powerful exploration of race in America. The way Colson Whitehead uses the concept of the railroad is both imaginative and thought - provoking.
Also, 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte has elements of a racy historical romance. It's set in the Yorkshire moors in the 19th century. The relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine is tempestuous and full of raw passion. Their love defies the social norms of the time and is as wild as the moors that form the backdrop of the story.
'Twilight' by Stephenie Meyer has elements of vampire romance. Although it's more modern - day set, it still has a sense of timelessness in the love story between Bella and Edward. Their relationship is filled with angst and passion, and the vampire lore in the book is quite interesting.
'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen also has elements of a steamy romance in a historical setting. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy's relationship develops from initial dislike to a deep and passionate love. The Regency - era setting and the social norms of the time play a huge role in their relationship journey.
One characteristic is the presence of a complex past between the main characters. For example, in 'Outlander', Claire has a life in the 20th century before being thrust into the past and her relationship with Jamie is colored by her knowledge of the future. Another is a strong sense of time and place. In 'The Bronze Horseman', the setting of World War II Russia is crucial to the second - chance love story. Also, the characters usually have to overcome some sort of internal or external obstacle. In 'A Kingdom of Dreams', the political unrest in medieval Scotland is an external obstacle to the lovers' second chance at happiness.
I highly recommend 'The Vanishing Half'. It has a really engaging plot about race and identity. The characters are well - developed and the story keeps you hooked from start to finish.
One great thriller love story novel is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It's a complex tale that combines the elements of a thriller with a very dark view of a relationship. The twists and turns in the plot keep you on the edge of your seat, and the exploration of the characters' relationship is both fascinating and disturbing.
One of the best is 'The Case of the Velvet Claws'. It introduced Perry Mason in a very engaging way. The mystery and the courtroom drama are well - blended.
One of the most popular Chinese romance novels is 'A Dream of Red Mansions'. It intricately weaves the love stories of various characters within a large family setting. The relationship between Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai is complex and full of emotions. Another popular one is 'The Legend of Condor Heroes'. The love between Yang Guo and Xiao Longnv is very touching, facing many difficulties and still staying true to each other.
'These Broken Stars' by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner is also a must - read. A pampered socialite and a jaded military hero are the main characters. Their spaceship crashes on an uncharted planet. As they struggle to survive, they also start to develop feelings for each other. The story has elements of mystery, danger, and a very sweet love story set against a science - fiction backdrop.