Best Historical Romance Books

We can’t talk about historical romance without starting with one of the most iconic books of all time, Pride and Prejudice. Set in Regency England, this classic love story follows the intelligent and headstrong Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates societal expectations, misunderstandings, and her growing feelings for the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. Full of witty dialogue, family dynamics, and the slow-burn romance between Elizabeth and Darcy, this novel is a timeless exploration of love, pride, and second chances. Plus, who can resist Mr. Darcy’s brooding charm?

Outlander is the ultimate blend of historical romance, time travel, and adventure. Claire Randall, a WWII nurse, is mysteriously transported from 1945 back to 18th-century Scotland, where she meets Jamie Fraser, a rugged Highlander. Their passionate romance unfolds against the backdrop of political unrest and cultural clashes. Jamie and Claire’s relationship is filled with intensity, loyalty, and undeniable chemistry. With its sweeping scope, rich historical detail, and sensual romance, Outlander has earned its place as one of the most popular historical romance series worldwide.

If you’ve heard of Bridgerton, thanks to Netflix, then you know about The Duke and I, the first book in Julia Quinn’s beloved series. Set in Regency-era London, this romance centers around Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings. To fend off matchmaking mamas, they agree to a fake courtship, but the fake feelings quickly become all too real. Their chemistry is undeniable, with plenty of witty banter and sensual moments. This lighthearted and charming romance is perfect for anyone looking for a fun, feel-good read with a dash of heat.

Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent, is one of historical romance’s most beloved rakes. In Devil in Winter, a shy, stuttering wallflower named Evangeline Jenner proposes marriage to him to escape her abusive family. What starts as a marriage of convenience soon blossoms into a slow-burn love story as Sebastian’s heart is unexpectedly captured. This book is part of Lisa Kleypas’s Wallflowers series and is a fan favorite for its strong character development, sizzling chemistry, and the transformation of a notorious rogue into a swoon-worthy hero.

Another hit from Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series, The Viscount Who Loved Me focuses on Anthony Bridgerton, the eldest Bridgerton sibling, who’s determined to marry for duty, not love. When he sets his sights on Edwina Sheffield, he doesn’t anticipate falling for her protective and sharp-tongued older sister, Kate. The enemies-to-lovers tension between Anthony and Kate is irresistible, filled with witty banter, hilarious situations, and heart-pounding moments. This book is a perfect blend of humor, family dynamics, and fiery romance.

The Hathaways series by Lisa Kleypas is a collection of heartwarming and passionate romances set in Victorian England, focusing on the five Hathaway siblings. Each sibling finds love in unexpected places, from Gypsy lords to American millionaires. The series blends humor, emotion, and steamy romance, making it a favorite among historical romance fans. Kleypas is known for her lovable characters and her ability to weave sensuality with deep emotional connections, making this series a must-read for anyone who loves a good family-centered romance.

Set in Victorian England during the suffragette movement, A Rogue of One’s Own is a delightful mix of feminist themes and romance. Lady Lucie is a headstrong suffragette leader who crosses paths with her old enemy, the rakish Lord Ballentine. Their sparring turns into a sizzling romance as they clash over business—and pleasure. This novel is full of witty dialogue, empowering themes, and a steamy slow-burn romance. If you’re looking for a historical romance with a strong heroine and a rogue who meets his match, this one’s for you.

Jennifer Ashley’s The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie is set in late Victorian England and features one of the most unique heroes in historical romance. Lord Ian Mackenzie is brilliant but suffers from a condition that today would likely be recognized as autism. When he meets Beth Ackerley, a young widow, their attraction is instant, and their love story is intense. Ian’s differences make him a fascinating hero, and Beth’s patience and kindness create a beautiful, heartwarming romance. With intrigue, mystery, and plenty of steamy scenes, this book is a standout in the genre.

While I’ve already mentioned two books from the series, The Bridgerton Series as a whole deserves a spot on this list. Following the eight Bridgerton siblings, each book focuses on one sibling’s romantic journey. Julia Quinn’s signature humor, lovable characters, and sizzling romantic tension are present in every book. Whether you’re rooting for the bookish Eloise or the romantic Colin, each sibling’s story is filled with charm and emotion. With its mix of family dynamics, Regency society, and passionate love stories, this series is a must-read for any historical romance lover.

Lady Calpurnia Hartwell is tired of being a wallflower, so she makes a list of “scandalous” things she’s always wanted to do, like fencing, gambling, and kissing someone passionately. To accomplish her goals, she enlists the help of Gabriel St. John, the rakish Marquess of Ralston. Their adventure quickly turns into a passionate romance. Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake is a fun, fast-paced romp filled with humor, daring escapades, and plenty of heat. Callie is a relatable heroine, and her transformation from shy wallflower to confident woman makes this a highly entertaining read.

Jude Deveraux’s A Knight in Shining Armor is a beloved time-travel romance that takes readers from the 1980s back to 16th-century England. When modern-day woman Dougless Montgomery is abandoned in a church, she meets Nicholas Stafford, a knight from Elizabethan times. As they try to unravel the mystery of his wrongful death, romance blossoms. Their love story is filled with passion, humor, and heartache, as they struggle with the reality of their time differences. It’s a timeless classic that beautifully blends historical romance with elements of fantasy.

In The Devil’s Bride, Stephanie Laurens introduces us to one of the most notorious families in historical romance—the Cynsters. When Honoria Wetherby finds herself in a compromising situation with the rakish Duke of St. Ives, also known as "Devil," they’re forced into a marriage of convenience. But what starts as duty quickly turns into a sizzling, passionate relationship. Devil is the ultimate alpha hero, and Honoria’s independence makes for a delightful match. This steamy, adventurous romance is the perfect blend of intrigue, action, and love.

Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love is a sweeping romance that spans years, following the spirited Whitney Stone and the enigmatic Duke of Claymore, Clayton Westmoreland. After spending years in France, Whitney returns to England determined to marry the man she’s loved since childhood, but Clayton has other plans. Their relationship is filled with tension, passion, and misunderstanding. McNaught’s lush, detailed writing and the emotional depth of the characters make this a captivating read, full of drama and romance.

Widely considered one of the best historical romances ever written, Lord of Scoundrels tells the story of Jessica Trent, a clever, strong-willed woman, and Sebastian Ballister, the notorious Marquess of Dain. Sebastian has a dark, tortured past and a reputation as a scoundrel, but Jessica is determined to save her brother from his influence. Their verbal sparring and undeniable attraction make for a sizzling romance. Loretta Chase’s sharp, witty writing and unforgettable characters make this a must-read for any historical romance fan.

Julie Garwood’s The Secret is set in medieval Scotland and features a fierce Highland laird and an Englishwoman who turns his world upside down. Judith Hampton travels to Scotland to be with her best friend but ends up falling for the rugged Iain Maitland. Their romance is full of adventure, humor, and passion, as Judith’s strength and kindness win over both Iain and his clan. This book is a perfect mix of medieval history, romance, and strong-willed characters who find love despite their differences.

In Ravished, Amanda Quick gives readers a Beauty and the Beast-style romance set in Regency England. The heroine, Harriet Pomeroy, is a passionate amateur archaeologist, while the hero, Gideon Westbrook, the Viscount St. Justin, is a scarred and brooding nobleman with a bad reputation. When Harriet seeks Gideon’s help to stop looters from pillaging her beloved caves, their partnership turns into an unexpectedly sensual romance. With witty dialogue, endearing characters, and a fast-paced plot, Ravished is a delightful and engaging historical romance.

Another gem from Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series, To Sir Phillip, With Love is the story of Eloise Bridgerton, the outspoken and independent Bridgerton sibling. After corresponding with Sir Phillip for a year, Eloise decides to take a chance and meet him, only to find he’s a gruff, reclusive widower with two unruly children. Their romance is a slow burn, with plenty of misunderstandings, but also sweet, heartfelt moments. This book is a lovely exploration of love, family, and finding happiness in unexpected places.

Tessa Dare’s The Duchess Deal is a charming, witty romance set in Regency England. When seamstress Emma Gladstone confronts the Duke of Ashbury over an unpaid bill for his ex-fiancée’s wedding dress, the scarred, brooding Duke makes her an unexpected offer—marriage. Their relationship is built on practicality at first, but Emma’s wit and warmth slowly melt the Duke’s icy exterior. This book is full of laugh-out-loud moments, steamy romance, and a heroine you can’t help but root for.

Another delightful offering from Tessa Dare, Romancing the Duke follows Izzy Goodnight, a penniless heroine who unexpectedly inherits a castle. The catch? The brooding, scarred Duke of Rothbury still lives there. As Izzy and the Duke clash over ownership of the castle, their relationship slowly evolves into a tender, passionate romance. Dare’s signature humor, charm, and emotionally satisfying love story make this book a standout in the historical romance genre.

Courtney Milan’s The Heiress Effect is set in Victorian England and tells the story of Jane Fairfield, an heiress with a sharp tongue and a flair for creating scandal. Determined to avoid marriage, Jane behaves outrageously to drive away suitors, but she catches the attention of Oliver Marshall, a politician with big ambitions. Their unlikely romance is full of sharp wit, emotional depth, and plenty of tension. Milan’s diverse characters and rich historical detail make this a must-read for anyone who loves strong heroines and clever writing.