8 Historical Romance Series Like Bridgerton for Fans of the Regency Era and Steamy Love Affairs

In recent years, historical romance novels have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the success of the Netflix series "Bridgerton". The show, based on the series of novels by Julia Quinn, captured audiences with its witty dialogue, intricate costumes, and scandalous storylines.

If you're a fan of "Bridgerton" and are looking for similar series to add to your reading list, you're in luck. In this article, we'll explore some of the best series that offer the same blend of romance, drama, and historical settings that made "Bridgerton" such a hit.

From Regency Romance to Espionage: 8 Series Like Bridgerton to Transport You to a Bygone Era of Passion and Scandal

1. "The Wallflowers" series by Lisa Kleypas

Like "Bridgerton", "The Wallflowers" is a series of novels set in the Regency era that focuses on a group of interconnected characters. The four heroines of the series - Annabelle, Lillian, Evangeline, and Daisy - are all wallflowers, or women who have been deemed too plain or unremarkable to attract suitors.

But with the help of their friendship and a bit of matchmaking, each woman finds love with a dashing hero. Lisa Kleypas's writing is charming and witty, and her characters are well-drawn and likable. Fans of "Bridgerton" will appreciate the attention to historical detail and the romantic tension that builds throughout the series.

2. "The Hathaways" series by Lisa Kleypas

Another series by Lisa Kleypas, "The Hathaways" follows the adventures of the eccentric Hathaway family. Each book focuses on a different member of the family as they navigate the challenges of love and society in Victorian England.

Like "Bridgerton", the series is full of memorable characters, scandalous secrets, and steamy romance. Lisa Kleypas's writing is both emotional and humorous, and her attention to detail brings the Victorian era to life.

3. "The Ravenels" series by Lisa Kleypas

Yes, another Lisa Kleypas series! "The Ravenels" is set in the late 19th century and follows the lives of the Ravenel family as they navigate the changing social and political landscape of the era. The series features strong heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and a cast of supporting characters that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

Lisa Kleypas's writing is top-notch, and her ability to weave together historical detail and romantic tension is truly impressive. Fans of "Bridgerton" will love the lush settings, witty banter, and steamy love scenes that make "The Ravenels" such a pleasure to read.

4. "The Duke's Men" series by Sabrina Jeffries

Sabrina Jeffries is another author known for her Regency-era romance novels. "The Duke's Men" series follows a group of men who work as private investigators for the Duke of Lyons. Each book focuses on a different hero as he falls in love with a strong, independent heroine. 

Like "Bridgerton", the series features intricate plots, complex characters, and plenty of steamy love scenes. Sabrina Jeffries's writing is engaging and well-researched, and her attention to historical detail is impressive.

5. "The Cynster" series by Stephanie Laurens

"The Cynster" series is a classic of the historical romance genre, and for good reason. The series follows the members of the Cynster family as they search for love and adventure in Regency-era England. The heroes are all strong and swoon-worthy, and the heroines are equally capable and independent.

Like "Bridgerton", the series features intricate plots, witty banter, and plenty of steamy love scenes. Stephanie Laurens's writing is engaging and her attention to historical detail is impressive, making each book a treat for fans of the genre. With over 20 books in the series, readers will have plenty of Cynsters to fall in love with.

6. "The Spindle Cove" series by Tessa Dare

"The Spindle Cove" series by Tessa Dare is set in a small coastal village in Regency-era England that serves as a refuge for unconventional women. The heroines of the series are all misfits in one way or another, but they find acceptance and love in Spindle Cove. The heroes are equally unconventional, and the series features plenty of witty banter, steamy love scenes, and memorable supporting characters.

Tessa Dare's writing is clever and emotional, and her characters are both relatable and unique. Fans of "Bridgerton" will appreciate the sense of community and the emphasis on individuality that makes "The Spindle Cove" series so charming.

7. "The Pink Carnation" series by Lauren Willig

"The Pink Carnation" series by Lauren Willig is a unique blend of historical romance and espionage. The series follows the adventures of a group of British spies during the Napoleonic Wars, as well as the modern-day graduate student who is researching their exploits.

Each book focuses on a different spy as they navigate dangerous missions and unexpected romance. Lauren Willig's writing is witty and suspenseful, and her ability to blend historical detail and romance is impressive. Fans of "Bridgerton" will appreciate the complex plots and the strong heroines who drive the action in "The Pink Carnation" series.

8. "The Bridgerton Prequel" series by Julia Quinn

Of course, no list of series similar to "Bridgerton" would be complete without mentioning Julia Quinn's own prequel series. Set a generation before the events of "Bridgerton", the series follows the adventures of Edmund Bridgerton and his wife Violet as they navigate the challenges of love and society in Regency-era England.

Julia Quinn's writing is as charming and witty as ever, and her attention to historical detail is impressive. Fans of "Bridgerton" will appreciate the chance to revisit some familiar characters and to explore the events that shaped their world.

In conclusion, if you're a fan of "Bridgerton" and are looking for similar series to add to your reading list, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer Regency-era romance, Victorian-era drama, or historical spy thrillers, there is a series out there that will capture your imagination and your heart.

These eight series offer the same blend of romance, drama, and historical detail that made "Bridgerton" such a hit, and they are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. So settle in with a cup of tea and a good book, and let these captivating series transport you to a bygone era of passion and scandal.