Who Are The Historical Romance Best Authors To Read Now?

I'm always on the hunt for the next swoony historical read, and honestly there are so many brilliant authors out there right now that cater to whatever mood I'm in — sass, steam, social commentary, or just pure comfort. If you love banter and a light, cozy regency vibe, Julia Quinn is the one who made me laugh out loud more than once; her world (the 'Bridgerton' books) is full of witty leads and happy endings. For richer, moodier escapes with lush emotional stakes, Lisa Kleypas is my go-to — her characters feel lived-in and the chemistry practically vibrates off the page. I also keep going back to Georgette Heyer for pure Regency craft; she's the reason I learned to appreciate perfectly timed dialogue and social nuance in this genre.

If you're looking for romance that digs into real historical realities and diversity, give Courtney Milan and Alyssa Cole a try. Courtney Milan tackles class, race, and social institutions with sharp insight while still delivering satisfying romantic arcs, and Alyssa Cole blends heart and historical detail in ways that stay with me for days — 'An Extraordinary Union' hits that sweet spot of tension, politics, and passion. Vanessa Riley is another recent favorite if you want a fresh voice who illuminates Black experiences within historical romance. For those who like a little spicy, witty, and female-led empowerment, Tessa Dare and Sarah MacLean are both excellent: Tessa for her irresistible banter and romantic payoffs, Sarah for her emotional arcs and strong heroines. Eloisa James and Sabrina Jeffries are other authors I turn to when I want rich period detail and clever characters.

Outside the mainstays, I also enjoy dipping into authors who experiment with the form — Elizabeth Hoyt for darker, more gothic-tinged romances, and Mary Balogh for quietly devastating emotional journeys. If you want the classics that shaped the genre, Kathleen Woodiwiss and Johanna Lindsey are historical pillars (just be ready to encounter older attitudes alongside their charm). For newer, boundary-pushing voices, keep an eye on Vanessa Riley, Claire Kilroy, and writers who foreground marginalized perspectives — their books often blend impeccable research with heart-stopping romance.

When I pick a book these days I usually decide by mood: craving laughter and easy chemistry? Grab Julia Quinn or Tessa Dare. Want something with bite and historical weight? Courtney Milan, Alyssa Cole, or Vanessa Riley. Need lush sensuality and emotional depth? Lisa Kleypas or Elizabeth Hoyt. Honestly, the best part is hopping between these styles like switching playlists — and I find that asking for a rec on community boards or browsing a few sample chapters usually nails the vibe. If you want a specific rec based on what you like (witty enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn, racially diverse leads, or gothic Regency), tell me your mood and I’ll point you toward a perfect first read for a rainy afternoon.