What is a Regency romance and why are they popular?

Inspired by the novels of Jane Austen, this genre of historical romance is set during the English Regency, about 1811-1820, when King George III (who ruled during the American Revolution) was incapacitated and his son ruled as regent. Characteristics of Regencies include strong-minded heroines battling a snobbish society, witty dialogue, engaging conflicts between heroes and heroines, and happy endings. Many consider these to be Cinderella stories, except that the young women aren’t just waiting around for a man to rescue them.

Weren’t traditional Regencies clean (without sex)? Why has that changed?

Traditional Regency romances like those by Georgette Heyer and Jacqueline Diamond, feature innocent heroines. Because society in the early 19^th century penalized unmarried women who lost their virginity, many readers consider this approach to be truer to that time period. However, spicier Regencies like the Bridgerton novels by Julia Quinn have become popular. Readers can choose whichever type of Regency they prefer!

Who are your favorite Regency romance authors?

Of course Jane Austen stands out as the original writer of what were then contemporary novels. Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility are Jacqueline Diamond’s favorites. She is also a fan of Marion Chesney (also known as M.C. Beaton), Mary Balogh, Tessa Dare and Courtney Milan.

A Lady's Point of View. A shortsighted young lady lands in the wrong carriage, is mistaken for a governess... and plays along.  Kobo, Kindle, Nook, Apple, GooglePlay, Smashwords  AUDIOBOOK

Lady in Disguise. Mistaken identities, separated lovers and love gone astray – it’s all part of this screwball comedy. Kobo, Kindle, Nook, GooglePlay, Apple, Smashwords  AUDIOBOOK

A Lady of Letters. Marianne Arnet must defy a powerful lord to save her parents--and her literary career: Kobo, Kindle, Nook, GooglePlay, Apple or Smashwords  AUDIOBOOK

The Day-Dreaming Lady. In her dreams, she still loves the impoverished man her parents forbade her to marry--who's now a rich lord. Kobo, Kindle, Apple, Nook, GooglePlay or Smashwords  AUDIOBOOK

Song for a Lady. A Regency-era Cinderella decides to defy her family and take her fate into her own hands. Kobo, Kindle, Nook, GooglePlay, Apple, Smashwords.  AUDIOBOOK

The Forgetful Lady. She can't prove her innocence--because she’s lost her memory, A finalist for the RITA© Award. Kindle, Nook, Kobo, GooglePlay, Apple,  Smashwords.  AUDIOBOOK