The “Bridgerton” series, with its thrilling blend of Regency-era settings, intoxicating romance, and engaging drama, has captivated audiences around the world.
If you’re one of the many fans seeking to immerse yourself in similar tales of societal soirees and passionate pursuits, you’re in luck.
Here’s a curated list of 15 books that echo the charm and allure of “Bridgerton.”
Why We Love The Regency Romance
The Regency era, a period in British history from 1811 to 1820, is a goldmine for romance literature. It was a time of great change, with societal norms being challenged and the ton—the upper echelons of society—setting the standards for fashion, culture, and, of course, courtship.
Regency romances often feature dashing dukes, headstrong heroines, and a plethora of social events, from balls to garden parties, where much of the drama unfolds.
The strict etiquette of the time creates a perfect backdrop for clandestine affairs and whispered secrets, making Regency romance a genre that’s both exciting and evocative of a bygone era.
Bridgerton-Esque Books to Devour
If you’re yearning for more stories set against the backdrop of Regency England, look no further. Here are books that will transport you back to a world of elegance and romance.
Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton Series
It’s only fitting to start with the series that inspired the hit show. Julia Quinn’s eight-book series follows the Bridgerton siblings as they navigate love, scandal, and high society.
Eloisa James’s Desperate Duchesses
Eloisa James’s “Desperate Duchesses” series is a must-read for fans of “Bridgerton.” With its focus on powerful dukes and the women who win their hearts, you’ll find yourself swept away by the glamour and the romance.
Tessa Dare’s Spindle Cove Series
For those who love strong female characters and humor interwoven with their romance, Tessa Dare’s “Spindle Cove” series is a perfect fit. The quaint seaside village serves as a refuge for women who defy Regency norms, and the resulting love stories are as heartwarming as they are entertaining.
Sarah MacLean’s Love By Numbers
Sarah MacLean delivers captivating narratives filled with passion and wit in her “Love By Numbers” series. If you’re looking for a blend of high society and high stakes, these books will not disappoint.
Lisa Kleypas’s Wallflowers Series
Lisa Kleypas’s “Wallflowers” series tells the tales of four young ladies entering society with the shared goal of finding husbands. The series is a delightful dance of friendship, love, and the pursuit of a perfect match.
The Intrigue of High Society
The Regency era was rife with intrigue and scandal, much like the world depicted in “Bridgerton.” The following books dive deep into the complexities and the clandestine affairs of high society.
Stephanie Laurens’s Cynster Series
With a sprawling family saga at its center, Stephanie Laurens’s “Cynster” series explores the lives and loves of a powerful Regency family. Each novel is a standalone story, but together they weave a rich tapestry of romance and drama.
Mary Balogh’s Bedwyn Saga
Mary Balogh’s “Bedwyn Saga” follows the Bedwyn family, where each sibling’s story is as unique as it is compelling. The combination of strong characters and emotional depth makes this series a standout.
Loretta Chase’s Carsington Brothers Series
Loretta Chase’s “Carsington Brothers” series is a delightful romp through Regency England, with each book focusing on a different Carsington brother and his quest for love—often in the most unexpected places.
Grace Burrowes’s Windham Series
Grace Burrowes’s “Windham” series captures the essence of Regency romance with its focus on the Windham family. The stories are filled with engaging characters and plots that make for a satisfying read.
Exploring Beyond England
The allure of the Regency era isn’t confined to England’s shores. These books take you beyond the familiar settings to explore love and society in different contexts.
Georgette Heyer’s Regency World
Often credited with establishing the historical romance genre, Georgette Heyer’s novels are essential for any Regency enthusiast. While not a series, her books provide a wealth of Regency settings and romances to enjoy.
Joanna Shupe’s The Knickerbocker Club
Venturing across the pond to Gilded Age New York, Joanna Shupe’s “The Knickerbocker Club” series offers a fresh take on historical romance with powerful men and the women who challenge them.
Sherry Thomas’s Fitzhugh Trilogy
Sherry Thomas’s “Fitzhugh Trilogy” is a series that stands out for its emotional depth and complex characters. Set in both England and China, these books offer a unique twist on the typical Regency romance.
Indulging in Series and Sagas
For those who can’t get enough of sprawling family dramas and interconnected love stories, these series and sagas will keep you entertained for hours on end.
The Bridgerton Prequels by Julia Quinn
Dive deeper into the Bridgerton world with Julia Quinn’s prequels, which explore the earlier generations of the Bridgerton family and how the legacy of love began.
The Hathaways Series by Lisa Kleypas
Lisa Kleypas’s “The Hathaways” series introduces readers to a quirky family finding their place in society and, inevitably, finding love along the way.
The Ravenels by Lisa Kleypas
Continuing with Lisa Kleypas, “The Ravenels” series delves into the lives of the Ravenel family, featuring strong-willed characters and fiery romances that echo the drama of “Bridgerton.”
Wrapping Up Your Regency Reading List
This list of Bridgerton-esque books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Regency romance. Each novel offers an escape to a world where love conquers all, and the dance of courtship is as intricate as it is enchanting.
Whether you’re looking for a series to sink your teeth into or standalone novels that whisk you away to the ballrooms and drawing rooms of the Regency era, there’s a book here for every “Bridgerton” fan.
Remember, the Regency era was a time of elegance, but also of change and challenge. The characters in these books, much like those in “Bridgerton,” often defy expectations and societal norms in pursuit of happiness. As you explore these stories, you’ll discover that the journey to love is as thrilling as it is timeless.