Romance is beautiful. And a love story set in a period where many things were considered scandalous is even more exciting! So today, I will write about five of the best historical romance novels ever. But first, here is a recap of what this romance genre is about.
The historical romance genre is a popular category of romance fiction that focuses on love stories in historical settings. These novels are typically set in the past, often in the Regency era or the Victorian era, but can also be set in other periods. Historical romance novels often feature strong heroines and brooding heroes who must navigate societal expectations and the pressures of their time to find love and happiness.
These novels can range from lighthearted and witty to more dramatic and emotional, but they all share a focus on romance and the power of love to overcome obstacles.
People read historical romances for different reasons, some of which may include:
An escape from this reality. Readers love to be transported to another time and place, whether it’s the Regency era, the Victorian or the Wild West. They love to imagine themselves in a different place and timeline.
Strong, relatable characters. Historical romance novels often feature strong heroines and swoon-worthy, dashingly handsome, extremely strong, and knee-buckling heroes that readers can fall in love with
Romance and passion. There’s something spicier about romance stories set in a historical era. It must be the breeches. But sarcasm aside, these stories usually contain heartwarming and gut-wrenching scenes that will have you giggling and kicking your feet all through. (I don’t know about you, but I would love to make out in a carriage. I’m not the only one because Miss Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton were surely getting it on in “Romancing Mr Bridgerton” by Julia Quin.
Intriguing storylines. From enemies to lovers to fake dating, forced proximity, and even my all-time favorite, marriage of convenience, historical romance novels often have intriguing plot lines that keep readers hooked and giddy.
Emotionally satisfying endings. Most historical romance novels end with a happily ever after, giving readers a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.
There are also a few things that set this romance genre apart from other genres, like the:
Historical accuracy. While historical romance novels are mostly fiction, they often strive to be historically accurate regarding setting, clothing, and customs.
Historical Language and Style. Historical romance novels often use language and style that reflects the period, which can add to the sense of immersion for readers.
Romance is a central plot point. At the same time, other genres may include romantic subplots; historical romance novels center romance as the main focal point of the book or story, which is a win for the hopeless and hopeful romantics.
Here are some great recommendations for this exotic genre
● “The Devil in Winter” by Lisa Kleypas. This is the third book in her Wallflowers series, featuring a classic “enemies to lovers” trope.
The story follows Evie, a shy and inexperienced woman who must marry a wealthy man to save her family from financial ruin. She proposes a marriage of convenience to Sebastian, a dashing nobleman with a reputation that precedes him. As they navigate their new relationship, Evie and Sebastian must confront their past traumas and learn to trust each other. This novel is known for its steam, witty banter, and emotional depth.
● “Ransom” by Julie Garwood.
A beloved historical romance novel set in medieval Scotland during the turbulent times following the death of King Richard the Lionheart. The story follows Gillian, a young woman whose home is invaded by Baron Alford, a power-hungry ruler. Gillian’s father entrusts her with a mysterious jeweled box and sends her and her sister to escape with the help of his most trusted men. However, Gillian is captured and brought back to the estate, where she must fight to reclaim her home and family. Along the way, she meets and falls in love with Brodick Buchanan, a powerful Scottish warrior and laird of his clan. And together, they learn more about loyalty, dedication, and total trust.
● “Mine till Midnight” by Lisa Kleypas.
The story follows Amelia Hathaway, who suddenly finds herself thrust into the world of aristocracy after her family inherits a title. Struggling to navigate the complex social rules of the ton, Amelia finds herself drawn to Cam Rohan, a dark and handsome man with a mysterious past. As Amelia and Cam grow closer, they must confront their growing attraction while also dealing with the challenges of their respective pasts and the expectations of society.
The novel is a steamy historical romance exploring love, passion, and social norms. Lisa Kleypas is known for her skillful storytelling and vivid characterizations; this novel is no exception.
● “Flowers from the Storm ” by Laura Kinsale.
Set in the early 19th century, the story follows the individual lives of Maddy Timms, a plain and brilliant Quaker woman, and Christian Langland, a once-handsome and powerful duke who is now considered insane until they collide after Christian is accused of a terrible crime and committed to an asylum, Maddy is hired to teach him mathematics. As she spends time with Christian, Maddy begins to realize that he is not insane but is struggling to communicate due to aphasia, a language disorder. Together, they work to prove his innocence and overcome the odds stacked against them.
● The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie” by Jennifer Ashley
It’s the first book in the Mackenzies series. It features a unique and compelling romance between Ian Mackenzie, a man with Asperger’s syndrome known for his eccentricities and social awkwardness, and Beth Ackerly. When he’s accused of a murder he didn’t commit, he’s forced to rely on Beth, who believes in his innocence.
As Beth gets to know Ian, she discovers that his “madness” is a unique way of seeing the world, and she’s drawn to his intelligence and vulnerability. Their romance is both tender and intense, and the book is praised for representing neurodiversity in historical romance.
While there are some similarities between “The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie” and “Flowers from the Storm” in the sense that both novels feature a hero with a neurological disorder who is misunderstood by society and a strong, compassionate heroine who sees beyond his diagnosis, “Flowers from the Storm” however, focuses on aphasia and the historical treatment of mental illness. At the same time, “The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie” explores autism in a Victorian-era setting and the social stigma surrounding it. Both novels are moving and powerful in their ways and show the importance of empathy and understanding in building meaningful relationships that can stand the test of time. Some popular authors in this genre include Jane Austen, Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas, and Sarah MacLea.