What Are The Top-Rated Good Historical Romance Series In 2023?

As someone who devours historical romance like it's my job, I'm always on the hunt for hidden gems that don't get enough love. 'The Spymaster's Lady' by Joanna Bourne is criminally underrated—it's got spies, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a heroine who could outsmart James Bond. The writing is sharp, the romance sizzles, and the historical detail is impeccable. Another series that deserves more attention is Stella Riley's 'Rockliffe' books. 'The Parfit Knight' is a standout with its witty dialogue and slow-burn romance. For those who love Georgian-era settings, these books are pure gold. I also adore 'A Kingdom of Dreams' by Judith McNaught, which has that perfect mix of medieval drama and swoon-worthy romance. These books are like finding treasure in a used bookstore—pure delight for historical romance fans.

As someone who devours historical romance like it's my job, I can confidently say there are plenty of gems out there that capture the same vibes as 'Bridgerton'. Julia Quinn's other series, 'The Rokesbys', is a fantastic sibling series with the same witty banter and swoon-worthy moments. Then there's Lisa Kleypas's 'Wallflowers' series, which is a masterclass in emotional depth and slow-burn romance. The way she builds tension between characters is unmatched. For those who love the political intrigue mixed with romance, 'The Maiden Lane' series by Elizabeth Hoyt is a darker but equally addictive read. If you're into more scandalous affairs, 'The Ravenels' by Lisa Kleypas offers a perfect blend of humor and steam. And let's not forget 'The Desperate Duchesses' by Eloisa James—it's got all the drama and elegance you'd expect from a toned-down 'Bridgerton'. Each of these series brings something unique to the table, whether it's the setting, the character dynamics, or the sheer emotional payoff.

As someone who spends hours scrolling through Kindle's historical romance section, I can confidently say that 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon reigns supreme. This series isn't just popular—it's a cultural phenomenon. The blend of time-travel, Scottish highlands drama, and the fiery relationship between Claire and Jamie has captivated millions. Another standout is 'The Bridgerton Series' by Julia Quinn, especially after the Netflix adaptation. The witty banter, Regency-era elegance, and steamy romances make it a Kindle favorite. For those who love deeper historical contexts, 'The Walnut Creek Series' by Shelley Shepard Gray offers Amish romance with a tender, slow-burn charm. Each of these series brings something unique, whether it's epic adventures or cozy, heartfelt moments.

As someone who devours historical romance like it’s my job, I can’t get enough of adaptations that bring these sweeping love stories to life. 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon is the crown jewel here—it’s got everything: time travel, Scottish Highlanders, and a love that defies centuries. The TV series captures the epic romance between Claire and Jamie beautifully. Then there’s 'Pride and Prejudice', the 2005 film with Keira Knightley, which perfectly embodies Jane Austen’s timeless enemies-to-lovers tale. For something grittier, 'The Other Boleyn Girl' delves into Tudor drama with a side of forbidden passion. And let’s not forget 'Emma', with its 2020 adaptation starring Anya Taylor-Joy—it’s a visually stunning take on Austen’s matchmaking comedy. Each of these adaptations honors the source material while adding their own cinematic magic.

Totally hooked on this kind of thing, I can’t help but gush: some historical romance books didn’t just win readers’ hearts, they exploded into full-blown hit series. The biggest poster-child is definitely 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon — it’s a sweeping time-travel historical romance that grew into a massive book series and an even bigger TV phenomenon. I fell into Claire and Jamie’s world on a rainy weekend and was immediately invested in both the love story and the detailed 18th-century setting; the show amplified the epic scope but the novels keep surprising me with side plots and characters the screen did not fully explore. Another one I always recommend is 'Bridgerton' by Julia Quinn. Those books are lighter, wickedly charming Regency romances that turned into a cultural moment once Netflix picked them up. The novels’ witty banter and romantic tropes translate so well to a glossy period drama that still manages to feel modern. Then there are sturdier, grittier titles like 'Poldark' by Winston Graham, which became beloved television adaptations for their moody landscapes and slow-burn love stories, and 'The Other Boleyn Girl' by Philippa Gregory — historical court intrigue with a romantic thread that made for compelling adaptations. If you like family-saga romance, don't skip 'The Forsyte Saga' (classics serve well on screen), and for sweeping, tragic love set against upheaval, 'Doctor Zhivago' still resonates as a book and film favorite. My own habit is to read the book first and then watch the adaptation, because I love spotting what got cut or expanded. If you want a place to start, pick based on mood: escapist and steamy? Go 'Bridgerton'. Dark and sprawling? Try 'Outlander'. Each one brings its own flavor of historical romance, and I always find something that makes me want to re-read the scene that first hooked me.

As someone who devours historical romance like it’s my job, I have strong opinions about publishers who consistently deliver top-tier series. Avon Books is a powerhouse, especially with their Avon Impulse line, which has given us gems like Julia Quinn’s 'Bridgerton' series. Their ability to blend rich historical detail with swoon-worthy romance is unmatched. Then there’s Berkley, which publishes Eloisa James’s 'Fairy Tales' series—full of witty dialogue and lush settings. St. Martin’s Press is another standout, home to Lisa Kleypas’s 'Wallflowers' and 'Ravenels' series, where the chemistry between characters leaps off the page. For those who prefer grittier, more historically grounded romances, Sourcebooks Casablanca publishes authors like Beverly Jenkins, whose 'Blessings' series explores African American love stories with depth and authenticity. Each of these publishers has a distinct flavor, but they all excel at crafting series that keep readers hooked book after book.

As someone who devours historical romance like it’s my job, I’ve scoured the internet for free gems. One of my favorite spots is Project Gutenberg, which offers classics like 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë and 'Persuasion' by Jane Austen—timeless love stories with rich historical backdrops. For more niche reads, ManyBooks and Open Library have a treasure trove of lesser-known titles. If you’re into web novels, RoyalRoad and Wattpad host amateur writers who sometimes craft surprisingly gripping historical romances. Just search tags like #Regency or #Victorian. Don’t overlook Kindle Unlimited’s free trial either; it’s packed with historical romances, though not entirely free long-term. Libraries also offer free digital loans via apps like Libby—check out 'The Duke and I' by Julia Quinn or 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon. Happy reading!

As someone who's been deeply immersed in the 'Outlander' series for years, I can confidently say Diana Gabaldon has crafted a sprawling epic that currently spans nine main novels. The journey begins with 'Outlander' in 1991 and continues through 'Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone,' released in 2021. Each book is a massive tome, averaging 800-1000 pages, packed with rich historical detail and passionate romance. Beyond the main series, there are also several novellas and short stories that expand the universe, like 'The Space Between' and 'A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows.' Gabaldon has mentioned working on a tenth book, so this incredible time-traveling saga isn't done yet. What makes this series special is how it blends meticulously researched 18th century history with an unforgettable love story between Claire and Jamie.