Every product on this page was carefully chosen. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure.
Step into a world where chivalrous knights, forbidden passions, and grand adventures await. The allure of historical romance books is irresistible, drawing readers into a labyrinth of untold love stories from centuries past. Prepare to be swept away by the timeless tales of passion, love, and adventure as we journey through the very best of this enchanting genre.
In the enchanting world of historical romance books, we have delved into tales that ignite our imagination and leave us breathless with every turn of the page. From Amy Harmon’s stirring What the Wind Knows to Soraya M. Lane’s exhilarating The Spitfire Girls, these timeless stories have taken us on a journey through the past, where love and adventure intertwine.
An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn
Sophie Beckett never imagined that she would attend the most coveted event of the season – Lady Bridgerton’s masquerade ball – let alone dancing with her very own Prince Charming, Benedict Bridgerton. However, the night ends abruptly, leaving Benedict to wonder about the identity of his mystery girl.
With its delightful mix of charm, wit, and intensity, An Offer From a Gentleman proves to be a worthy addition to the pantheon of historical romance classics.
What the Wind Knows by Amy Harmon
Anne Gallagher grew up mesmerized by her grandfather’s tales of Ireland. After his passing, she decides to travel to Ireland to scatter his ashes. However, she soon finds herself torn between two worlds: the contemporary Ireland and the Ireland of 1921.
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Outlander follows Claire Randall, a strong-willed and intelligent woman who unexpectedly travels back in time from 1945 to 1743. Bound by the customs and traditions of a bygone era, Claire confronts the harsh realities of life in the Scottish Highlands. Amidst all this, she becomes entangled in a passionate and forbidden romance with Jamie Fraser.
The Keeper of Happy Endings by Barbara Davis
The Keeper of Happy Endings follows Soline Roussel and Rory Grant, two women linked together by a string of eerie parallels.
Davis’s masterful storytelling and ability to evoke a range of emotions make The Keeper of Happy Endings a worthy addition to the illustrious list of the best historical romance books of all time.
Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas
In a society that adheres to strict rules and expectations, Evangeline Jenner finds herself in a desperate situation. Faced with a dire ultimatum from her despicable relatives, Evangeline seeks refuge in the most unlikely of places—the arms of the notorious rake, Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent.
The Beekeeper’s Promise by Fiona Valpy
When Abi stumbles upon a dilapidated farmhouse with hidden secrets, she delves deeper into the history of the farmhouse and becomes entangled in the life of Eliane, a courageous beekeeper who lived through the horrors of the Nazi occupation.
Where the Sky Begins by Rhys Bowen
In the aftermath of a blitz, Josie Banks’ entire world crumbles. Injured and unable to reach her husband, Josie evacuates to the English countryside to the estate of Miss Harcourt. There she attempts to grasp some semblance of normal by opening a tea shop.
And when Josie meets Mike Johnson, she unwittingly finds herself falling for the gorgeous Canadian pilot. However, life takes a sudden turn when her husband returns, changing everything.
Where the Sky Begins is a must-read for fans of historical romance books. Bowen’s writing is masterful, with beautiful prose and vivid storytelling that captures the essence of desire and forbidden love.
In Memoriam by Alice Winn
In Memoriam chronicles the tragedy, love, and loss of innocence experienced by Henry Gaunt and Sidney Ellwood in 1914. The two friends, who believe their love for one another is unrequited, attend a peaceful boarding school in the English countryside. But when Gaunt enlists to fight, Ellwood follows him to the front, only to discover the harsh realities of war.
From the poetic confessions of unrequited love to the stark reminders of the devastation inflicted by conflict, In Memoriam is an intense exploration of the power of love.
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
It’s 1850 and, ever since being sold into prostitution as a child, Angel has had no faith in men. Then, everything changes when Michael Hosea enters her life and changes everything.
Rivers skillfully intertwines themes of love, faith, and forgiveness, showcasing the vulnerability and overwhelming emotion of Sarah and Michael’s tender moments together and highlighting the power of love to transform lives.
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
If you are a fan of historical romance, you will love The Duke and I. This charming and witty love story takes place in the elegant world of Regency England and follows Daphne Bridgerton, a young woman yearning for love and adventure. Enter the dashing and enigmatic Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset, a man who has sworn off marriage but finds himself entangled in a game of deception and desire.
Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean
Meet Lady Calpurnia Hartwell, or Callie, a young woman defying societal norms in search of true love. When Callie becomes entangled with the notorious Marquess of Ralston, Gabriel St. John, she embarks on a daring journey of self-discovery and romance and discovers that there is more to Gabriel than meets the eye.
A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon
Deborah Samson was born to a struggling Puritan family in 1760, and with no other means of support, she was soon indentured as a servant. But Deborah never loses sight of her dreams of freedom, and when the Revolutionary War breaks out, she sees her chance.
Disguised as a man, Deborah enlisted in the Continental Army to finally earn the independence she had always desired. Yet, in her pursuit of freedom, Deborah faces numerous struggles, especially the dilemma of her own identity and a forbidden love she cannot ignore.
The Bride by Julie Garwood
In The Bride, Lady Brenna, a strong-willed Scottish beauty, and Laird Alec Kincaid navigate the turbulent waters of their arranged marriage.
The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis
Ashlyn Greer is a rare-book dealer with a unique ability. She can sense the emotional history of a book’s previous owners. When she stumbles upon an unpublished collection of novels, her ability sparks, and curiosity soon turns into obsession. To add to the intrigue, the books are written by two authors who tell conflicting sides of a tragic romance.
Determined to uncover the truth behind the books and their mysterious origins, Ashlyn embarks on an unforgettable journey. And as she reads on, she discovers a trail of broken promises and betrayals, bringing her closer to the truth.
In this addictive and highly readable historical romance, Barbara Davis delivers a captivating storyline with a mysterious twist. The Echo of Old Books is a beautiful piece of fiction that will make a wonderful addition to the bookshelves of historical romance fans.
Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas
Beatrix Hathaway has long since come to grips with her inevitable spinsterhood. Then Captain Christopher Phelan enters the picture and shakes everything up.
With Love in the Afternoon, Kleypas weaves a tale of forbidden love that will sweep you off your feet.
My Name is Anton by Catherine Ryan Hyde
In 1965, Anton Addison-Rice, an eighteen-year-old, is still grappling with the loss of his brother due to a tragic accident. While on holiday, Anton becomes concerned when he realizes that his neighbor Edith is in danger from her husband.
Determined to assist Edith in leaving her abusive marriage, Anton works hard to gain her trust and help her flee. However, despite the obstacles they encounter, Anton finds himself unexpectedly falling for her.
Think of England by KJ Charles
In Edwardian England, two unlikely allies, Captain Archie Curtis and enigmatic Daniel da Silva, join forces to uncover a treasonous conspiracy.
Curtis, a former army captain, is determined to find the truth behind a suspicious accident, and da Silva seems to have the key to solving the mystery. As their mission progresses, a sizzling chemistry ignites between them, deepening their bond.
Think of England is an enthralling tale of passion, intrigue, and danger.
A Fire Sparkling by Julianne MacLean
Gillian Gibbons seeks solace at her family home after the ultimate betrayal by her lover. While there, she finds an old picture of her grandmother with a Nazi officer, further complicating her life. Stunned by the discovery, Gillian sets out the truth behind her grandmother’s photo, taking her on an epic journey through the past.
A Fire Sparkling is a captivating novel that transports readers to a different time, brimming with romance and intrigue.
The Spitfire Girls by Soraya M. Lane
In WWII Britain, a group of remarkable women take to the air as members of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA). But amidst the chaos, romance blossoms against all odds. Lane skillfully weaves in the stories of these strong women and the men who capture their hearts.
The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons
The Bronze Horsemant immerses us in the lives of Tatiana Metanova and Alexander Belov, two young individuals caught in the whirlwind of war and an all-encompassing love.
Tatiana, a young and innocent girl, finds herself instantly drawn to Alexander, a soldier serving in the Red Army. Their connection is immediate, and their love is undeniable, but their story is far from easy. With the war raging around them, their relationship is constantly tested as they struggle to find moments of solace amidst the chaos and maintain their love against all odds.
A Week to be Wicked by Tessa Dare
A Week to be Wicked follows the spirited and unconventional Minerva Highwood and her daring expedition with the notorious libertine Lord Colin Payne.
Tessa Dare is a master in the art of historical romance writing, and A Week to be Wicked is a prime example. With its beguiling plot and captivating characters, it is undoubtedly one of the best historical romances.
Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon
In Where the Lost Wander, Naomi May, a brave traveler on her family’s Oregon Trail journey, and John Lowry, a mysterious half-Pawnee horse trader with secrets of his own, embark on a journey where survival and love intertwine in unexpected ways.
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
Lucy Muchelney is an astronomer with a determined spirit and an insatiable curiosity – traits that lead her to meet Catherine, the formidable Countess who has recently inherited her late husband’s scientific library. What transpires between them is a captivating romance that transcends the societal conventions of the era.
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics explores the stories of women daring to dream beyond their expected roles. Waite’s eloquent prose and poignant character development make this book a must-read for historical romance fans.
Coming Home by Rosamunde Pilcher
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Rosamunde Pilcher’s Coming Home, the next captivating tale in our exploration of the best historical romance books of all time. Set in the picturesque landscape of Cornwall, amidst the chaos of WW2, Pilcher takes us on a journey back in time, full of love, nostalgia, and lost secrets. With lyrical prose and vivid detail, she paints a picture of the past and her complex characters come alive.
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
Malinda Lo transports readers back to the 1950s and delves into the experiences of seventeen-year-old Lily Hu.
Last Night at the Telegraph Club follows Lily as she navigates her deepest desires in a time of intolerance and discrimination. Lo’s vivid descriptions of the city’s underground lesbian scene provide a richly detailed backdrop for Lily’s journey of self-discovery.
Slightly Dangerous by Mary Balogh
Christine finds herself in a precarious situation when her brother unexpectedly inherits a title. Suddenly thrust into the spotlight, she becomes the target of unwanted attention and begins questioning her place in this new world of privilege. But the arrival of Wulfric Bedwyn, the Duke of Bewcastle, turns her world upside down.
Slightly Dangerous is an unputdownable historical romances that immerses you in a world of secrets, scandals, and forbidden love. From glittering ballrooms to scandalous liaisons, the intricacies of society are expertly brought to life.
It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas
At the heart of It Happened One Autumn is the spirited and independent American heiress Lillian Bowman. With her unconventional ways and fiery spirit, Lillian is a force to be reckoned with. And when she crosses paths with the brooding and enigmatic Marcus Marsden, Lord Westcliff, the sparks fly, setting the stage for a battle of wills and undeniable attraction.
When A Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare
To avoid societal pressures and unwanted suitors, Madeline Gracechurch devises an audacious plan. She creates a fictional fiancé, Captain Logan MacKenzie, to whom she writes passionate letters detailing their imaginary courtship. Little does she know that her fictional creation will soon become a real person.
Madeline’s world is thrown into chaos when Logan MacKenzie, a Scottish man with a troubled past, unexpectedly shows up. To maintain the deception, she must navigate a tangled web of lies and deceive those closest to her, including the captain who has unwittingly won her heart.
A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught
A Kingdom of Dreams follows the fiery and fiercely independent Jennifer Merrick, a proud Scottish beauty, and Royce Westmoreland, the enigmatic English knight who becomes her unwilling captor. Jennifer’s unwavering spirit and determination are matched only by Royce’s strength and charm. But beneath their fiery exchanges and undeniable attraction lies a deeper connection that neither can deny.
McNaught’s weaves a captivating tapestry of desire, danger, and destiny that transports readers to a world filled with knights in shining armor, damsels in distress, and odd-defying loves.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is a timeless classic that follows the titular characters Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in early 19th century England. Not only does it offer a fascinating exploration of love, but it also delves into societal intricacies.