Books Like...
If you liked An Infamous Army, here are the top 95 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Alastair-Audley)
- #1
Come for the war, not the waltz! An immersive historical journey best suited for history buffs and Heyer completists - less of a sweeping romance and more of a battlefield dispatch.
'The Spanish Bride' by Georgette Heyer is a historical novel set during the Napoleonic Wars, focusing on the true life story of Brigade Major Harry Smith and his young Spanish wife, Juana. The book follows their tempestuous marriage amidst the chaos and danger of life in the 95th Rifles, as they journey through Spain, Portugal, and America, witnessing historical events like the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo. Heyer's writing style is described as meticulously researched, offering detailed accounts of battles and troop movements, while also delving into the personal narrative of Harry and Juana.
Since a complete list of the authorities for a book dealing with the Peninsular War would make tedious reading, I have published no bibliography to The Spanish Bride, preferring to add a note for thos...1940•489 pages - #2
A sparkling, frothy Regency romp that’s equal parts humor and heart - ideal comfort reading for anyone craving wholesome historical hijinks.
'Friday's Child' by Georgette Heyer is a Regency romance novel that follows the impulsive Lord Sherringham, known as Sherry, who, after being rejected by a notable beauty, decides to marry the next woman he encounters, which happens to be the young and naive Hero Wantage. The two enter into a marriage of convenience, with Sherry initially viewing it as a way to gain access to his Trust. The story unfolds as Sherry and Hero navigate the complexities of their relationship, with Hero's innocence leading them into various escapades in London society. The novel is filled with humorous moments, mistaken identities, and character growth as the protagonists come to terms with the reality of their marriage.
The writing style of 'Friday's Child' is described as airy, amusing, and comical, with well-drawn characters and engaging dialogue that sets each character clearly. The plot involves a lighthearted exploration of class, manners, and period details, adding to the historic veracity of the story. The novel captures the essence of Regency England through its portrayal of dashing heroes, enterprising heroines, and the societal norms of the time, creating a delightful and entertaining read for fans of Regency romance.
Her companion, a tall young gentleman who had gone romantically down upon one knee before her chair, appeared put out by this faltered request. ‘Damn it – I mean, dash it, Isabella!’ he expostulated,...January 1944•427 pages - #3
A frothy, funny romp full of hijinks and heart - a Georgian-era comedy for those who love their historical romance with lots of laughs and a classic touch.
The Convenient Marriage by Georgette Heyer is a historical romance novel set in the Regency era. The story follows the young and impulsive Horatia Winwood who offers herself in marriage to the Earl of Rule in place of her older sister, leading to a marriage of convenience. The plot is filled with humorous situations, witty dialogue, and intricate character interactions, making it a delightful and entertaining read for fans of Regency romance. Heyer's writing style expertly captures the manners and aristocratic society of the time, with a touch of adventure and intrigue woven into the narrative.
Lady Winwood being denied, the morning caller inquired with some anxiety for Miss Winwood, or, in fact, for any of the young ladies. In face of the rumour which had come to her ears it would be too pr...1934•311 pages - #4
An angsty, richly emotional Regency romance that blends war, forgiveness, and second chances. Not perfect, but a must-read for fans of the Bedwyns or anyone craving a more serious and heartfelt love story.
'Slightly Tempted' in the 'Bedwyn Saga' series by Mary Balogh follows the story of Lady Morgan Bedwyn, the youngest sibling in the family. Set in the backdrop of the days leading up to the Battle of Waterloo, Morgan finds herself in Brussels where she meets Gervase Ashford, the Earl of Rosthorn, who harbors a secret revenge against her brother. As war looms closer, Morgan and Gervase navigate their growing friendship and budding romance amidst the turmoil of historical events and personal vendettas. The book delves into themes of forgiveness, revenge, love, and the complexities of relationships in high society during the Regency era.
IT STILL FELT SOMEWHAT STRANGE TO BE PART OF A gathering of the crème de la crème of English society again and to hear the English language spoken by virtually everyone. Not that the English were the...December 2003•384 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Bedwyn Saga ) - #5
A lively, escapist pirate adventure that's big on action and period charm but lighter on romance and character depth. Great fun for fans of swashbuckling tales, but not Heyer's most dazzling work.
Beauvallet by Georgette Heyer is a swashbuckling historical romance set in the Elizabethan era. The story follows Sir Nicholas Beauvallet, a daring English pirate, who captures Dona Dominica de Rada y Sylva, a Spanish lady, during a pirate attack. Despite their initial animosity, a romance blossoms between them as Beauvallet promises to take Dominica back to Spain and make her his bride. The plot is filled with adventures, schemes, and escapades as Beauvallet navigates the dangers of war and the Inquisition to win Dominica's heart. The writing style is described as a mix of historical accuracy, lively pacing, and engaging characters that bring the Elizabethan period to life.
The deck was a shambles. Men lay dead and dying; there was split woodwork, a welter of broken mizzen and sagging sail, dust and grime, and the reek of powder. A ball screamed through the rigging overh...1929•299 pages - #6
A Regency rom-com overflowing with charm, hijinks, and a memorable heroine - marred just a bit by an unfortunate and offensive stereotype. If you can overlook that flaw, it’s a frothy, sharply-written classic of the genre.
'The Grand Sophy' by Georgette Heyer follows the unconventional and independent Sophy as she descends upon her cousins' household, determined to shake things up and set their lives straight. With her vibrant personality and fearless attitude, Sophy manages to untangle various problems in her cousins' lives and meddles in their romantic affairs, all while maintaining a strong sense of good judgment and intelligence. The book is set in the Regency era and offers a classic Georgette Heyer Regency romance with cleverly interwoven plotlines, great characterizations, and gentle humor, making it an enjoyable and charming read for fans of historical romance.
Sophy's character stands out as a strong and intrepid female lead, willing to go against societal norms and follow her own path while still adhering to the rules of society with a touch of feminism and humor. The story unfolds with Sophy's audacious and outrageous behavior, providing hilarious episodes throughout the book and showcasing her as one of Heyer's most memorable and delightful creations. Overall, 'The Grand Sophy' offers a delightful and entertaining read filled with witty dialogue, lively characters, and a cleverly plotted storyline that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
THE BUTLER, recognizing her ladyship’s only surviving brother at a glance, as he afterward informed his less percipient subordinates, favored Sir Horace with a low bow, and took it upon himself to say...1950•384 pages - #7
A charming, humorous Regency romance with delightful characters, best enjoyed by fans of clever dialogue and gentle historical escapism.
Black Sheep by Georgette Heyer is a Regency romance novel set in Bath, focusing on the charming heroine Abigail Wendover and the black sheep hero Miles Calverleigh. Abby finds herself in a predicament when trying to separate her niece Fanny from a fortune hunter, leading her to seek help from Miles. The book is known for its witty and humorous dialogue exchanges between Abby and Miles, providing high entertainment in the first half of the story. The plot revolves around unconventional characters navigating societal norms and romantic entanglements, with a touch of scandal and romance.
A little before eight o'clock, at the close of a damp autumn day, a post-chaise entered Bath, on the London Road, and presently drew up outside a house in Sydney Place. It was a hired vehicle, but it...1966•277 pages - #8
A light, amusing Regency romance perfect for fans of classic tropes and found family tales - less about Bedwyn family hijinks, more about charm, healing, and heart.
Slightly Sinful by Mary Balogh is the fifth book in the Bedwyn series, focusing on Lord Alleyne Bedwyn who loses his memory during the Battle of Waterloo and is rescued by Rachel York, a young woman living in a brothel. The story follows their journey as they masquerade as a married couple to uncover a conman and claim Rachel's inheritance. The book is praised for its madcap adventure, memorable characters like the quirky prostitutes, and the evolving relationship between Alleyne and Rachel amidst a backdrop of mystery and deception.
He had imagined neatly deployed lines, the British and her allies on this side, the enemy on that, flat land like the playing fields of Eton between them. He had imagined cavalry and infantry and arti... - #9
A charming, witty Regency romp - more mystery and comedy than steamy romance, but a fun adventure if you’re game for gothic hijinks, hilarious dialogue, and lovable supporting characters. Great for a cozy, lighthearted read.
"The Reluctant Widow" by Georgette Heyer is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Elinor Rochdale, a governess down on her luck who mistakenly enters the wrong carriage and finds herself embroiled in a whirlwind of events, including a sudden marriage and widowhood, spies, secret passages, and a touch of mystery. The book is described as a blend of romance, humor, and intrigue, with a plot that keeps the reader entertained and engaged throughout. Heyer's writing style is praised for its humor, witty dialogues, and well-fleshed-out characters that bring the Regency setting to life.
It was dusk when the London to Little Hampton stage-coach lurched into the village of Billingshurst, and a cold mist was beginning to creep knee-high over the dimly seen countryside. The coach drew up...January 1946•331 pages - #10
A witty, heartwarming, and humorous Regency romp - "Cotillion" is perfect comfort reading for anyone who loves clever plots, delightful characters, and happy endings.
'Cotillion' by Georgette Heyer is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Kitty Charing, an heiress who is expected to marry one of her guardian's nephews in order to inherit his fortune. Kitty, a headstrong young woman, refuses the proposals of her cousins and instead convinces her cousin Freddy to pose as her betrothed. As they navigate through a series of misunderstandings and scrapes in London, Kitty and Freddy find themselves in a sham engagement that leads to unexpected twists and turns, ultimately culminating in a satisfying and sweet ending. is praised for its witty language, charming characters, and entertaining plot that keeps readers engaged until the last page.
The Saloon, like every other room in Arnside House, was large and lofty, and had been furnished, possibly some twenty years earlier, in what had then been the first style of elegance. This, however, h...January 1953•418 pages











