Since its debut, Bridgerton has captivated global audiences with its lavish Regency-era setting, witty dialogue, and emotionally charged love stories. For readers enchanted by the series’ blend of historical drama and modern sensibility, a growing selection of novels offers similarly irresistible narratives, full of passion, scandal, and social intrigue.
Among the most recommended is the “Rokesby” series by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton’s own creator. Set slightly earlier than the Bridgerton timeline, these novels follow the Rokesby family and their entanglements with the Bridgertons’ extended circle. With familiar tones of humor and heartfelt romance, the series deepens the universe fans already adore.
Evoking the same spirit of defiance and desire, Evie Dunmore’s “A League of Extraordinary Women” series introduces heroines fighting for women’s rights in Victorian England. The first installment, “Bringing Down the Duke”, pairs a suffragette scholar with a powerful aristocrat, weaving political tension with slow-burning romance. The series has been praised for its feminist edge and richly drawn historical backdrop.
For those drawn to Bridgerton’s multicultural reimagining of the Regency world, Vanessa Riley’s historical romances offer a compelling alternative. Titles like “Island Queen” and “A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby” center Black protagonists navigating love and legacy in colonial and British society. Riley’s work blends meticulous research with emotional depth, expanding the genre’s horizons.
Another standout is “The Heiress Gets a Duke” by Harper St. George, which flips traditional power dynamics by placing a wealthy American heiress at the center of a marriage negotiation with a cash-strapped British noble. The novel explores themes of autonomy and ambition, echoing the portrayal of women in Bridgerton, as they assert control over their destinies.
Fans of Lady Whistledown’s sharp commentary may also enjoy “The Secret History of the Pink Carnation” by Lauren Willig. This historical spy-romance series combines mystery, flirtation, and clever banter, following a modern-day scholar uncovering the truth behind a network of Napoleonic spies. It’s a playful blend of past and present, ideal for readers who appreciate layered storytelling.
While Bridgerton has set a high bar for period drama with a contemporary twist, these novels continue the tradition, offering readers lush settings, complex characters, and love stories that challenge convention. Whether through rebellious heroines, scandalous secrets, or unexpected alliances, each title invites readers to linger in a world where romance is both escape and empowerment.
As the appetite for historical romance grows, these books prove that the genre is thriving, evolving with new voices, diverse perspectives, and timeless themes that resonate far beyond the ballroom.
