Loved the “Bridgerton” Books? Try One of These Era Romance Novels Next

We don’t have to tell you that “Bridgerton” made a huge splash when it came to Netflix in late 2020. Not only was the Regency-era series viewed by over 80 million households, but it quickly skyrocketed to the streaming service’s most popular series ever (and by a lot). In the same way “The Queen’s Gambit” ignited a desire in many to take up chess, “Bridgerton”‘s popularity inspired people to read the 10-part book series.

If you’ve already lapped those up — or you’re eager to add more books to your lineup — consider the following.

This one’s a seamless transition from the “Bridgerton” books series for two reasons. First, it’s also set in the Regency era and second, it’s written by the same author, Julia Quinn. “The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever” is the first book in Quinn’s three-part Bevelstoke Series. While you’re at it, check out all the books Quinn’s penned.

Set in the Victorian era, “The Stranger I Married” tells the unexpected, winding, highly erotic love story of Isabel and Grayson. Their arranged marriage left them both wanting, and in fact they unfaithfully wanted themselves right into the arms of others. An eventual change of heart results in a tale of *ahem* red-hot seduction.

A familiar Regency romance plot: a pair of lovers run off to elope in Scotland as others try to stop them. However, in “Wanted, A Gentleman” the pursuers, Theodore and Martin, find themselves catching feelings for each other.

Leave it to Philippa Gregory to leave you completely enrapt for a full 650-plus pages. This novel is based on the real, heart-wrenching story of Anne Boleyn and her sister, Mary — two royal consorts who found themselves dangerously entwined with the fiery King Henry VIII. It’s a tale of romance, expectations, and sordid turns of events amid Tudor splendor. Let’s just say it doesn’t end well. When you finish the book, watch the movie featuring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson.

You bet we’re throwing a classic into this mix. Jane Austen’s “Emma” is also set in Georgian/Regency-era England and depicts Emma Woodhouse, a spirited, slightly spoiled 20-something uninclined to fall in love. Then she realizes that feelings are blooming between herself and the man she tried to set her friend up with. Like some of the others on this list, Emma has been made into a movie twice over. The first starred Gwyneth Paltrow and the 2020 version features Anya Taylor-Joy.

Written by prolific romance novel author Georgette Heyer, “The Talisman Ring” is a fast-paced, Georgian/Regency-era tale that’s equal parts comedy and love story. It depicts a fugitive heir accused of murder and a melodramatic, somewhat tempestuous Frenchwoman. You’ll laugh and swoon. And when you’re finished with this one, move on to one of the other 50 books written by Heyer.