Best historical romance novels

This classic Regency romance from Julia Quinn has seen renewed popularity due to the Netflix series, making it a highly relevant and beloved choice. It's a foundational text in the genre.

This novel is a highly anticipated release from Amanda Quick, a beloved and prolific author in the historical romance genre. Its recent publication date ensures it's a fresh and relevant choice for readers.

As a recent release from Kensington Books in early 2026, this novel represents a current and accessible option for historical romance enthusiasts. It offers a fresh narrative within the genre.

This novel stands out for its unique blend of queer romance, gothic horror, and a distinct Victorian London setting. Its innovative approach makes it a compelling and diverse choice within the historical romance genre.

As the first book in 'The Marriage Managing Society' series, this novel is an anticipated release in the popular Regency subgenre. It promises a fresh start to a new series from Eva Devon.

From the highly regarded author Eloisa James, and recommended by Julia Quinn, this novel is an anticipated release in 2026. It promises quality storytelling from a genre favorite.

This novel is an anticipated release from Sarah MacLean, a bestselling author known for her feminist historical romances. It offers a compelling narrative within a popular series.

This novel is the first in a new series from Mimi Matthews, a highly-rated author in the historical romance genre. It's an anticipated release that promises a fresh and engaging story.

Praised for its humor and engaging plot with mistaken identities, this novel was ranked as a top read of 2025. It offers a fun and chaotic take on historical romance.

This novel offers a unique blend of historical fiction, gothic horror, and slow-burn romance set in 18th-century Mexico. Its distinct setting and genre fusion make it a standout choice.

This steamy USA Today bestseller offers a refreshing setting in 19th-century Mexico and features a rebellious heiress clashing with a pragmatic duke. It's praised for its fierce heroines and fascinating history.

This Regency romance is highly rated for its humor, age gap trope, and explicit open-door steam. It offers a fun and spicy read within the genre.

From the beloved author Mary Balogh, this 2024 release is part of her Ravenswood series and explores themes of family and identity. It's a strong choice from a genre veteran.

This instant USA Today bestseller from 2024 is praised for its humor, charm, and unique premise involving rival ornithologists. It offers a fresh and entertaining take on historical romance.

This 2024 release offers diverse characters and settings, with a Mexican FMC and a spy plot set in London and Mexico in the 1860s. It provides a refreshing perspective within the genre.

This highly-rated 2024 novel is praised for its queer romance, trans hero, and explicit open-door steam. It offers important diverse representation and a compelling plot.