Dive into the gritty, passionate world of The Bareknuckle Bastards, where Regency London’s dark alleys pulse with romance and rebellion! Sarah MacLean’s historical romance series follows three roguish brothers—Devil, Beast, and the Duke—and their fierce sister Grace, as they navigate love, vengeance, and secrets in Covent Garden’s underbelly. With steamy chemistry and sharp social commentary, this series is a must-read for romance fans craving heart-pounding adventure.
MacLean, a New York Times bestselling author, crafts a world where strong-willed heroines challenge societal norms, and brooding heroes confront their pasts. Each standalone novel delivers a delicious blend of wit, heat, and emotional depth, making The Bareknuckle Bastards a standout in contemporary historical romance.
How The Bareknuckle Bastards Began
Sarah MacLean, a lifelong romance advocate, launched The Bareknuckle Bastards in 2018 with Wicked and the Wallflower. Inspired by her love for Regency settings and complex characters, she wanted to explore a grittier side of London, far from the glittering ballrooms of Mayfair. Covent Garden’s rough streets became the perfect backdrop for a saga about illegitimate siblings bound by a dark secret, drawing readers into a world of crime, loyalty, and forbidden love. MacLean’s feminist lens and knack for banter shaped a series that feels both timeless and bold.
The Heart of The Bareknuckle Bastards
The series spans three novels, each spotlighting a sibling’s journey to love. Wicked and the Wallflower (2018) introduces Devil, a smuggler who strikes a dangerous bargain with wallflower Felicity Faircloth to exact revenge, only to fall for her fiery spirit. Brazen and the Beast (2019) follows Beast, a taciturn fighter, and Hattie, a bold businesswoman, whose sizzling chemistry ignites amidst a smuggling feud. Daring and the Duke (2020) concludes with Grace, the underworld queen, and Ewan, the Duke of Marwick, whose enemies-to-lovers arc delivers a gut-wrenching redemption.
Set against Regency London’s seedy underbelly, the series weaves themes of loyalty, identity, and empowerment. MacLean’s heroines—lock-picking Felicity, ambitious Hattie, and fierce Grace—defy patriarchal constraints, while the brothers grapple with their traumatic past. The gritty Covent Garden setting, infused with diverse characters and criminal enterprises, adds historical depth. MacLean’s signature witty dialogue and steamy romance keep readers hooked, earning praise for balancing sensuality with social critique.
Why The Bareknuckle Bastards Resonates
The Bareknuckle Bastards has carved a niche in historical romance for its bold storytelling and inclusive worldview. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about MacLean’s ability to craft flawed, relatable characters who fight for love and justice. The series’ feminist undertones and diverse London cast challenge traditional Regency tropes, resonating with readers seeking fresh narratives. MacLean’s advocacy for romance as a feminist genre, through her Fated Mates podcast, amplifies the series’ cultural impact, cementing her as a leading voice in the genre.
With its blend of heart, heat, and rebellion, The Bareknuckle Bastards continues to captivate readers worldwide, translated into over 25 languages. Its critical acclaim, including starred reviews from Booklist, underscores its influence as a modern classic in historical romance.
- First Book: Wicked and the Wallflower (June 2018)
- Total Books: 3
- Awards: Starred reviews from Booklist and Library Journal
- Author: Sarah MacLean, RITA Award winner
Ready for a Regency romance with a rebellious edge? Grab Wicked and the Wallflower and step into the electrifying world of The Bareknuckle Bastards!