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10 Swoony Regency Romance Novels Perfect for Bridgerton Fans (Exclusive)

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On Christmas Day 2020, over 63 million households tuned in to watch the first season of Bridgerton, a Regency-era drama inspired by the works of author Julia Quinn. With its diverse casting, use of trending pop music remixes and contemporary storytelling voice, Bridgerton captivated viewers, quickly becoming the most-watched show in Netflix history.

As a lifelong lover of Regency romance, I was shouting with joy. But despite the show’s global success, it hasn’t translated into an increase in readership within the Regency romance market. Whenever I ask fans of the Bridgerton show why they don’t read in the genre, they repeat some version of the same thing: “I’m just not a fan of Jane Austen.” Well, to that I say two things. First, how dare you! Jane, my angel, may both sides of your pillow always be cool and your tea always be hot. 

Also, fair. Jane writes in a voice that is reflective of her time, which means her books don’t feel accessible for many readers today. This year marks the 250th anniversary of Austen’s birth, and I’m happy to report that the Regency romance landscape is a wonderful place with a little something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t believe me? Just take a look at these 10 swoon-worthy titles.

‘Bombshell’ by Sarah MacLean

If you’re new to Regency romance, Sarah MacLean is a great place to start. Bombshell is book one in her Hell’s Belles series. This is a brother’s-best-friend story featuring a scandalous lady and the gentleman she never should have lured into the garden. 

‘The Duchess Deal’ by Tessa Dare

Another classic of contemporary Regency romance, The Duchess Deal was a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee for Best Romance back in 2017. It features a marriage of convenience between a pushy lord and the vicar’s determined daughter. Tessa has a huge backlist, and you really can’t go wrong, so pick a title and dive in.

‘A Lady For A Duke’ by Alexis Hall

If you’re looking for a romance with deep emotionality and a slower burn, try A Lady for a Duke. This is a childhood friends-to-lovers story featuring a trans woman lead. Presumed dead at the Battle of Waterloo, Viola chooses to live as her authentic self under a new identity. She returns home to find her best friend grieving her death. 

‘It Takes Two To Tumble’ by Cat Sebastian

When I think of LGBATQ+ Regency romance, I think of Cat Sebastian. It Takes Two to Tumble is a sizzling slow-burn romance between a quiet country vicar and a naval captain. If you love this one, you’ll probably love the third book in my Second Sons series, Alcott Hall, which also features criminal levels of mutual pining. 

‘Aphrodite and the Duke’ by J.J. McAvoy

If there’s one thing that will get me every time, it’s a second chance romance. Is it any wonder Persuasion is my favorite Austen book? In Aphrodite and the Duke, family duty calls Aphrodite back to London where she reunites with the man who once broke her heart — a man who is now a widower. 

‘To Love And To Loathe’ by Martha Waters

My favorite thing about a Martha Waters book is the witty banter, and To Love and To Loathe easily takes the cake for me! I loved the push-and-pull of Lady Templeton and the Marquess of Willingham. And the sprawling house party setting scratched the itch left over from writing Beautiful Things. 

‘Omega’s Gambit’ by Flora Quincy

If you want to try something truly unique, read Omega’s Gambit, which is a Shakespeare retelling of Twelfth Night set in Regency-era London. Oh, and did I mention it’s an Omegaverse? Yeah, it’s one wild ride.  

‘A Gentleman’s Gentleman’ by T.J. Alexander

A Gentleman’s Gentleman is a delightful, slow-burning love story between a lord and his new valet, with amazing transmasc representation. Come for the suppressed longing, stay for the intricate buttons.   

‘Ladies In Hating’ by Alexandra Vasti

This one doesn’t technically come out until September 2025, but it’s a sapphic, rivals-to-lovers Regency romance set in a haunted mansion! We’re all preordering this one, yes? If you want to try Alexandra’s writing style while you wait for September, check out Ne’er Duke Well. 

‘Puck & Prejudice’ by Lia Riley

What kind of hockey romance author would I be if I didn’t end with this gem of a crossover? A pro hockey player accidentally time travels to Regency England and meets a young unmarried lady intent on becoming a widow by any means necessary. Say less, am I right?

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