Historical Romance You’ll Want To Devour

by Sophie Barnes
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5 books
If you’re new to this genre and don’t know where to begin, look no further. This list, containing some of my favorite historical romance novels, will serve as a wonderful introduction. From wounded heroes to wall-flower heroines, this collection of swoon worthy stories has you covered. Some are dramatic while others will make you laugh. Combined, these are the stories that have stood out the most during my years of working within this genre. I hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as I have.
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Romancing Mister Bridgerton

Julia Quinn, 2015
Most of you will know about The Bridgertons due to the Netflix series. For me, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton will always have a special place in my heart. It wasn’t until I purchased it in an out of the way bookshop in Ghana that I realized I wanted to write a historical romance novel. This book made such an impact because of its humor and clever banter. It introduced me to Regency romance as a sub-genre and as a result, I went on to write my debut novel shortly after finishing it.

The Rogue Pirate's Bride

Shana Galen, 2012
It’s been years since I read this novel. Now that I’m thinking of how to describe it, I’m tempted to say it’s like Princess Bride meets Pirates of the Caribbean. I know that’s not accurate, but it’s the feeling it gives me. There’s action, battle of wills, adventure on the high seas, and danger. It’s simply a marvelous read.

In The Viscount's Arms

Allyson Jeleyne, 2019
This one is actually free on Amazon kindle, which is how I ended up reading it since I’d never heard of the author before. Low and behold, it’s one of the best written romance novels I’ve read. The author’s ability to show the characters fall in love through their gradual interactions is as marvelous as her ability to paint pictures with words. An absolute treat of a story. Plus, it’s a class difference romance, which is one of my all-time favorite tropes.

Scandalous Desires

Elizabeth Hoyt, 2011
Writing an anti-hero that readers will love - walking that line between a man who does awful things while encouraging readers to root for him - is a talent. Elizabeth Hoyt does a spectacular job of precisely that in Scandalous Desires. This book helped me figure out how to make readers fall in love with Carlton Guthrie when I wrote The Forgotten Duke.

When Beauty Tamed the Beast

Eloisa James, 2011
I have a soft spot for wounded heroes. I’ve written several such characters myself, so I’m always happy when other authors tackle them. This book is a great example of a wounded hero who’s also a brilliant physician. Modeled on Doctor House (remember that t.v. series?), a bad-tempered earl is tamed by a brazen beauty who has her heart set on love. It’s utterly delightful.