10 Best Historical Romance Books In 2025

Historical romance novels have long held a place in the hearts of readers around the world. Combining the allure of timeless love stories with rich historical settings, these books transport us to different eras, immersing us in the drama, passion, and societal intricacies of bygone times. Below is a list of the 10 best historical romance books that stand out not only for their gripping narratives but also for their ability to vividly recreate the past and enchant readers with unforgettable characters.

1. “Indigo” by Beverly Jenkins — A Lush Tale of Love and Resistance

Set in pre–Civil War America, the novel follows Hester Wyatt, a former slave aiding the Underground Railroad, and Galen Vachon, a wealthy and powerful abolitionist hiding from bounty hunters. Their bond forms under the shadow of injustice, but grows into a soul-stirring love story grounded in bravery, sacrifice, and liberation. Jenkins’ masterful writing and historical insight make Indigo not just romantic, but historically vital.

2. “The Secret” by Julie Garwood — Highland Passion and Loyalty

Set in medieval Scotland, The Secret follows Judith Hampton, a strong Englishwoman who travels north to support her pregnant best friend. There she meets Iain Maitland, the stoic Scottish laird who becomes both her captor and protector.

3. “The Bronze Horseman” by Paullina Simons — A War-Time Epic

Simons combines historical detail with an epic romance, crafting a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. This novel is ideal for readers who crave romance deeply intertwined with historical conflict and survival.

4. “Devil in Winter” by Lisa Kleypas — The Regency Romance at Its Finest

Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter is a standout in Regency romance, showcasing a story where a notorious rake, Sebastian, and the spirited heroine, Evangeline, form an unlikely marriage of convenience that blossoms into something far more profound. Kleypas expertly captures the nuances of Victorian society and the transformation of her characters through emotional vulnerability and trust.

5. “The Duchess Deal” by Tessa Dare — A Charming Regency Romance

Tessa Dare’s writing shines in portraying strong, independent heroines who challenge societal norms, making this book a refreshing and delightful entry in the historical romance category.

6. “The Winter Sea” by Susanna Kearsley — History and Mystery Intertwined

In The Winter Sea, Susanna Kearsley delivers a hauntingly romantic narrative that oscillates between the 18th century and the present day. The novel beautifully weaves Scottish history, mystery, and romance, engaging readers with the intertwined fates of the characters across centuries.

7. “Rebel” by Beverly Jenkins — Powerful Beginnings in Reconstruction-Era New Orleans

Set during the Reconstruction Era, Rebel introduces readers to Valinda Lacey, a determined young teacher building a life in New Orleans. When she’s threatened by white supremacists, she finds an ally in Captain Drake LeVeq, a decorated war hero and fierce protector. Jenkins weaves themes of freedom, courage, and passion with historical nuance and unforgettable characters.

8. “The Highwayman” by Kerrigan Byrne — Dark and Dangerous Victorian Romance

Kerrigan Byrne’s The Highwayman kicks off her Victorian Rebels series with a dark, haunting love story between Farah Leigh Mackenzie and Dorian Blackwell, a feared criminal lord of London. With Gothic undertones and emotionally intense storytelling, this novel draws readers into a world of revenge, passion, and redemption. Set in Victorian England, The Highwayman offers a beautifully tortured hero and a heroine whose strength and vulnerability make her unforgettable. Byrne’s lush prose and gripping narrative make this a perfect pick for readers who love dangerous men, deep emotions, and historical depth.

9. “Marrying Winterborne” by Lisa Kleypas — Love Between Classes in Victorian England

A brilliant installment in Kleypas’ Ravenels series, Marrying Winterborne tells the love story of Rhys Winterborne, a self-made Welsh department store magnate, and Lady Helen Ravenel, an aristocrat bound by social expectations. Their romance defies Victorian class boundaries and is filled with slow-burning passion, emotional intensity, and transformative growth. Kleypas excels in creating characters who feel both larger-than-life and incredibly real.

10. “Romancing the Duke” by Tessa Dare — A Whimsical yet Poignant Regency Romance

Tessa Dare’s Romancing the Duke combines humor and heartfelt romance with a touch of mystery. The story follows a young woman who inherits a scandalous reputation and the reclusive Duke who helps her reclaim her dignity. Dare’s clever dialogue and authentic period detail make this book a joy to read for fans of witty, emotionally satisfying historical romance.

Why Reading Historical Romance Enhances Your Appreciation for History and Literature

Historical romance books are more than just entertainment; they serve as bridges to the past, offering insights into social customs, gender roles, and political climates that shaped history. Through well-crafted narratives, readers develop a deeper understanding of:

-How love and relationships were influenced by societal pressures

-The role of women and their struggles for agency and identity

-The cultural and historical events that defined different epochs

This genre enriches both literary appreciation and historical knowledge, making it a rewarding pursuit.

Conclusion

For lovers of history and romance alike, these 10 best historical romance books provide a compelling gateway to explore the passion, drama, and depth of love stories set against vividly rendered historical backdrops. Dive into these unforgettable tales and experience the magic of romance through the lens of history.