Georgette Heyer's Regency Romances

Georgette Heyer was the author of over 50 books, the most famous of which are her Regency Romances. She invented the genre in 1921 with the publication of The Black Moth, a novel she wrote for her brother and submitted for publishing at the encouragement of her father. A further 33 Regency Romances were to follow and she was writing until her death in 1974.

Technically the Regency Period covers 1811 - 1820, the time Prince George was made Regent until the time he became King George IV upon his father's death. However this period is generally extended to cover the years between 1780 and 1830 because of the distinctive politics, society and fashions (mostly led by Prince George.)

What makes a Regency Romance special?

The Setting - most (though not all) stories are set against the backdrop of The London Season, the time of year when wealthy families flocked to London for entertainment, parties, intrigues and marriage.

The People - most characters are wealthy and many are part of the British aristocracy. Flirtations take place at balls and routs, and gentleman call on ladies to take them driving in the park. Duels are not unheard of, and many a man has lost his fortune at the gaming table.

The Romance - True love never runs smoothly in a Regency Romance. Letters are mislaid and messages are misunderstood... but it always works out in the end.

The History - A well written Regency Romance (and Georgette Heyer's are always well written) is well researched and gives us a fascinating insight into the fashions, politics and social conventions of the day.

• The Black Moth
• Powder and Patch
• These Old Shades
• The Masqueraders
• Devil's Cub
• The Convenient Marriage
• Regency Buck
• The Talisman Ring
• An Infamous Army
• The Spanish Bride
• The Corinthian
• Faro's Daughter
• Friday's Child
• The Reluctant Widow
• The Foundling
• Arabella
• The Grand Sophy
• The Quiet Gentleman
• Cotillion
• The Toll-Gate
• Bath Tangle
• Sprig Muslin
• April Lady
• Sylvester
• Venetia
• The Unknown Ajax
• A Civil Contract
• The Nonesuch
• False Colours
• Frederica
• Black Sheep
• Cousin Kate
• Charity Girl
• Lady of Quality