Dearest Gentle Reader, as the Bridgerton crew retires to their country estates now the third series is over, this author finds herself in desperate need of new stories that can rival the burning passion of Daphne and Simon, the smouldering desire of Anthony and Kate and the heartfelt connection of Colin and Penelope.
Fortunately, the Bridgertons are not the only titled family engaging in romantic antics. With its many dukes, popular ballrooms, gossipy marriage marts and plucky, poor relatives, the Regency offers a great background for entertaining mysteries and frothy love stories - the kind best enjoyed with a steaming cup of tea and a string quartet playing in the background!
The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting by KJ Charles
Robin Loxleigh and his sister Marianne are scheming their way through the marriage mart to secure their future. Alice is the perfect mark as although she is set to inherit a large fortune upon her wedding, no one else is paying attention to her. The plan unravels when Robin loses a large sum to Alice’s caring and dashing uncle, John. Unable to repay his debt, Robin offers a different kind of repayment: he will become John’s lover for a month. Think Pretty Woman but with more card games, snug breeches and a dramatic family showdown at a ball.
What to read next
The Persephone Code by Julia Golding
Who can resist a smart, resourceful and independent Regency heroine? Prepare to fall head over heels for Dora Fitz-Pennington - as does Dr Jacob Sandys, a Viscount son and ex-army officer. Together, the two of them set to solve the mystery of the murder of Dora’s brother. Their obstacles? Just a few high-ranking members of the British aristocracy and the Illuminati... With the fate of Britain and their own happiness on the line, this duo is in for one wild ride.
A Lady’s Guide to Scandal by Sophie Irwin
At just 27-years-old, Eliza finds herself widowed from a marriage of convenience, with a sizeable fortune to her name. It’s hers to keep providing she upholds her unimpeachable reputation. Not an easy task when a notorious rake and poet moves to Bath and starts flirting with her. To complicate matters, Eliza’s former (or is it current?) sweetheart is responsible for enforcing the morality clause. Scandal, art and romance – this is the best Regency romp set in Bath since Persuasion!
Unladylike Rules of Attraction by Amita Murray
This has everything you want from a Regency romance: a countess matchmaking from beyond the grave, goats, drama in a conservatory, goats, a kidnapping and more goats! Anya Marleigh’s wealthy patron has left her a small fortune, providing she marries before her 25th birthday, which is in… just four months. This is a delightful mix of high-jinks and undeniable attraction - and did we mention the goats?
A Lady to Treasure by Marianne Ratcliffe
An award-nominated novel about two young women unafraid to speak their minds in a society that rather they didn’t. Louisa, an American businesswoman, and Sarah, who runs her family’s estate, are unconventional Regency heroines who journey through less explored aspects of their time. Their romance sparkles with the kind of intelligence, determination and self-awareness that draws you in from the very first page.
A Gamble at Sunset by Vanessa Riley
When a passionate kiss jeopardises both Georgina Wilcox’ reputation and Lord Mark Sebastian’s chance at winning a prestigious music prize, the two reluctantly agree to fake-court. Georgina is one of four formidable sisters who you can't help get attached to as they hustle to keep their parents’ coal business afloat. The twists and humour are best enjoyed while nibbling on a ginger biscuit (Georgina’s favourite). Perfect if you love tales of wallflowers with strong wills, a la Penelope Featherington.
Ne’er Duke Well by Alexandra Vasty
It is a truth universally acknowledged that an awkward duke seeking to improve his reputation in order to become guardian of his younger siblings should marry a scandal-free lady of the ton. Which is to say that Peter, new Duke of Stanhope hailing from America, should probably not fall in love with the clever and feisty Lady Selina Ravenscroft, who runs a secret erotic library for women. This is a romance brimming with heart - from the spicy relationship between Peter and Selina to the found-family elements of the story. Add cinematic descriptions and a side of courtroom drama and you have yourself a very fine romance.
