The television series Bridgerton has recently sparked the popularity of Regency romance. Set in the early 1800s, the series illustrates a London society fueled by ruthless gossip, elaborate ballroom dances, and, of course, intricate romance plots.
While filming for season four has been confirmed, months could pass before we are finally able to stream the rest of the story. If Bridgerton left you craving a period piece, the following books offer historical romance plots that are sure to satisfy.
1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
First published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice follows the witty, intelligent Elizabeth Bennet and the arrogant Mr. Darcy. At the novel’s beginning, Elizabeth is offended by a comment made by Mr. Darcy, leading her and many others to see Darcy as intolerably proud. Mr. Darcy is a wealthy man who, at first, only sees Elizabeth as having a lowly status. Events throughout the novel, however, lead both characters to realize their initial judgements were hasty and mistaken.
Austen crafted a clever enemies-to-lovers trope, which can similarly be found within the Bridgerton plot. Fans of season two can recall the turbulent relationship between Kate and Anthony; like Elizabeth of Pride and Prejudice, Kate is offended by a comment from Anthony that she overhears, resolving to make sure that he has no chance of marrying her sister. While we now know that the tension of this relationship leads to a satisfying end, it is up to you to discover if Austen created the same fate for her characters.
2. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
While the setting of Little Women differs from that of Bridgerton, there are similarities within the plot that any period piece fan is sure to enjoy. Based in rural New England during the 1860s, this novel marks the coming-of-age of the four March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Each sister has different personalities, but together they learn the importance of love, family, and sacrifice.
The variety of personalities embodied by the March sisters can relate to characters in Bridgerton. Fans of the quiet, gentle Francesca will love the second-youngest March sister, Beth. For those who enjoy more of a strong, independent female character such as Eloise, Jo March will become a new favorite character. If you are also hoping for a charming love interest, prepare to be captivated by neighbor-boy Laurie.
If you enjoy the familial bonds between the Bridgertons, you will enjoy the close-knit March family. Just as the Bridgerton siblings support each other throughout their hardships—or cause each other the occasional strife—the March sisters similarly brave the obstacles of life together. Violet Bridgerton fans will also love Marmee March, as both characters serve as the kind and patient matriarchs of their respective families.
3. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Taking more of a gothic tone, Jane Eyre has more of a dark, broody feel than that of Bridgerton. Set in early 19th century England, Jane Eyre is an orphan who fights for her independence despite her constricting circumstances. Whenever she takes a job as governess for Mr. Rochester, the novel takes a more romantic yet mysterious turn.
For many episodes, Bridgerton kept a major secret about the ton: the identity of Lady Whistledown. Fans watched the first season in anticipation of the mysterious figure revealing herself. A similar mystery arises in Jane Eyre, as strange events occur at the estate where Jane teaches. The results are just as shocking, if not more than, as the identity of Lady Whistledown.
Whether you enjoy Bridgerton for its romance, close-knit family, or mysteries, any fan will enjoy the novels listed above. While these novels are classics and often a little more difficult to read compared to modern historical romances, they are authentic perspectives from writers who lived in the 19th century. If you are more interested in watching movies or shows, all three stories have multiple screen adaptations as well. Bridgerton may take a while to continue, but many other historical romances wait to be discovered in the meantime.