One popular one is 'Outlander'. It has elements where the heroine, Claire, faces various challenges and at times, situations that could be considered abuse within the context of the historical setting. The relationship she has with Jamie is complex and set against a vivid historical backdrop.
'Gone with the Wind' can be considered in this regard. Scarlett O'Hara is a strong - willed heroine who faces many difficulties in the historical context of the American Civil War. She endures abuse in different forms, including emotional abuse from the men in her life, and her story is a complex and passionate historical romance.
'The Bronze Horseman' is also a great choice. The heroine Tatiana endures a lot during the war - era Russia. She has to deal with the hardships of war and her relationship with Alexander is full of passion and trials, which includes some situations that can be related to the idea of an abused heroine in a historical context.
Love and redemption is another theme. Despite the abuse, they usually find love that helps them heal or at least gives them the strength to move forward. The love interest, often the hero, may be the one who helps the heroine break free from the cycle of abuse or provides a safe haven within the harsh historical environment.
One example could be 'Flowers in the Attic' by V.C. Andrews. It has elements where the heroine endures abuse within a complex family situation while also having a romantic sub - plot. However, it's a rather dark and controversial novel.
One such novel could be 'Bared to You' by Sylvia Day. The heroine has a troubled past with abuse that shapes her relationships.
It usually hooks readers because it shows the heroine's journey of overcoming abuse and finding love. The contrast of her difficult past and the potential for a happy future creates tension and keeps you turning the pages.
One popular one is 'Outlander'. It features a strong female lead who is a virgin at the start. The story weaves historical events with a passionate romance. Another is 'The Bronze Horseman' where the heroine is a young virgin and the novel beautifully portrays a love story set against the backdrop of historical turmoil.
A good example is 'The Winter Sea' where the female lead's pregnancy becomes an important part of the story set in a historical context. The novel beautifully weaves historical details of Scotland with a romantic plot and the changes that come with her pregnancy.
'Regency Love for the Abused Heart' is a novel that delves deep into the life of an abused heroine. It shows how she overcomes her past traumas and discovers true love within the strictures of the regency society. The descriptions of the regency balls and social etiquette add to the allure of the story.
One example could be 'Flowers in the Attic' by V.C. Andrews. It has elements where the heroine faces abuse within the family and there are complex romantic undertones. However, it's a rather dark and complex read.
You might consider 'Broken Promises'. Here, the hero abuses the heroine due to his own inner demons and past traumas. However, as the story progresses, he realizes his mistakes and tries to make amends.
The appeal often lies in the heroine's journey of overcoming the abuse and finding true love. It can be very emotional and engaging for readers.