Classic Romance Book Recommendations

 Historical/Period Romance Book Recommendations

Historical/Period romance adaptations have recently become mainstream and for good. Shows like Bridgerton and movies like Wuthering Heights have captured people's hearts. Here are a few classic euro-centric suggestions for historical romantic comedy books that can get you more excited to explore the historical/classic section of your local library!

#1 Pride and Prejudice -Jane Austen

The classic. Pride and Prejudice might just be one of the most well-known books and adaptations. Not mentioning it, would result in a literary crime, so here it is. 

About: The book follows the character development of Elizabeth Bennet who learns about the consequences of prejudices through a stoic, awkward man of pride, Mr. Darcy. Filled with societal commentary and witty remarks, Jane Austen depicts an honest nature of regency Britain.

#2 North and South -Elizabeth Gaskell

A very underrated book and even more of an author! North and South is a novel describing the conflict between a young, optimistic woman from the rural south of England, Margaret Hale and a rigid, practical mill-owner of the north, John Thornton. Focusing on the clash between owners and workers, it comments about the politics of industries and simultaneously reveals the blooming romance between Margaret and John.

#3 Persuasion -Jane Austen

Another one of Austen's, explaining her importance in the classical scene. The story is about a certain Anne Elliot whose family moves to Bath during a time of a slight financial lack. She runs into Captain Frederick Wentworth, who she broke off her engagement with, due to the persuasion by her family and friends. Will the lingering attraction make her reconsider her previous decision?

#4 Far from the Maddening Crowd -Thomas Hardy

Set in the rural Southwest England in Wessex, we follow the protagonist Bathsheba Everdene's life and relationships with her neighbour William Boldwood, soldier Frank Troy and the loyal shepherd Gabriel Oak. Follow Bathsheba with her questionable thoughts and decisions and the charming romance between her and the one she chooses.

#5 Jane Eyre -Charlotte Bronte

A gothic classic written in stages of Jane's life, talking about her troubled childhood and her later employment as governess to the ward of Byronic, Mr. Rochester. As her feelings towards Mr. Rochester develop, she discovers secrets that threaten her happiness and love. It talks about important social issues and ideas like class, religion and feminism.

These books have an identity and substance of more than romance, ranging from smart societal commentary talking about social issues to reflective emotional depth of personal identity, as all great books do. Enjoy reading!