Best books for fans of Bridgerton
Can’t get enough of the Bridgertons? The glitz and glamour? The all-consuming drama of the ton?
The hit Netflix series is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Julia Quinn’s world of hot scandal, true love and unshakable duty. Whether you're a devoted Bridgerton fan or a newcomer to the world of Regency romance, these books are sure to make you swoon faster than Cressida Cowper at a ball.
This spoiler-free list contains all the books in and around the Bridgerton series, so you can keep your fire burning until the next season graces our screens.
The original Bridgerton books
Why not start with the captivating tales of the Bridgerton siblings themselves?
If you're keen to relive the beloved narratives seen on Netflix or eager to get ahead before the next season, these books offer an immersive journey into the world of the Bridgertons. These nine novels by Julia Quinn let you dwell among the family's charming exploits for as long as it takes to turn each page.
The duke and I – Daphne Bridgerton
The viscount who loved me – Anthony Bridgerton
An offer from a gentleman – Benedict Bridgerton
Romancing Mister Bridgerton – Colin Bridgerton
To Sir Phillip, with love – Eloise Bridgerton
When he was wicked – Francesca Bridgerton
It’s in his kiss – Hyacinth Bridgerton
On the way to the wedding – Gregory Bridgerton
The Bridgertons: happily ever after - What happens next?
More drama in the Bridgerton universe
The ton is rife with drama beyond the Bridgerton household. These additional tales by Julia Quinn uncover lore more extensive than our favourite family tree. Find out what goes on behind closed doors – each book in this extended universe is a whirlwind of passion, gossip and unexpected alliances.
Bridgerton prequels by Julia Quinn
The Rokesby series: where dukes are dashing, debutantes are daring, and the Bridgerton legacy begins.
The girl with the make-believe husband
Based on the Netflix spin-off
Queen Charlotte was written together by Julia Quinn with television pioneer Shonda Rhimes. A powerful and romantic novel of Bridgerton's Queen Charlotte and King George III's great love story and how it sparked a societal shift, inspired by the original series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, created by Shondaland for Netflix.Based on Lady Whistledown’s columns
In the vein of Lady Whistledown's most scathing observations, these short story anthologies expose the secrets and desires hidden behind every fan and mask.
The further observations of Lady Whistledown by Julia Quinn, Suzanne Enoch, Karen Hawkins, Mia Ryan
Lady Whistledown strikes back by Julia Quinn, Suzanne Enoch, Karen Hawkins, Mia Ryan
Meet the Smythe-Smiths
The events in the Bridgerton books occur at the same time as the stories of the Smythe-Smiths, also written by Julia Quinn. Unveil further scandals and romances lurking beneath the polished facade of Regency society.
The secrets of Sir Richard Kenworthy
Similar books for fans of Bridgerton Seasons 1-3
These recommendations are based on the themes from the original books, which may or may not be the same as the on-screen adaptations.
Read-alikes: Season 1
Hooked on Daphne and Simon’s fake-dating story in The duke and I? You’ll enjoy these stories where the lines between love and strategy blur as characters navigate the treacherous waters of society's expectations.
Beyond scandal and desire by Lorraine Heath
If a story of revenge against your father – like Simon’s – appeals, try this one.
Any rogue will do by Bethany Bennett
Curious about fake dalliances and the pursuit of passion? Give this one a go.
How to love a duke in ten days by Kerrigan Byrne
If a story of revenge and secrets is your reading catnip, then this is the one for you. Trigger warning: sexual assault.
Wicked and the wallflower by Sarah MacLean
If a story of trying to land a husband with the help of a rake (like Daphne and Simon’s plan) sounds like you, then enter the world of Sarah MacLean.
See full list of read-alikes: Bridgerton Season 1
Read-alikes: Season 2
Sparks fly amidst the clash of strong wills, as heroines assert their independence and unexpected partnerships blossom. If the fiery chemistry between Anthony and Kate in The viscount who loved me caught your attention, these reads are for you.
Emily and the dark angel by Jo Beverley
If a competent and determined heroine appeals to you, then meet Emily.
The rogue not taken by Sarah Maclean
If the story of an unlucky couple thrown together sounds intriguing, try this one.
Someone to wed by Mary Balogh
If the story of a country estate and an unexpected bride appeals, then this could be the book for you.
A princess in theory by Alyssa Cole
A modern romance that matches the reluctant betrothal and fiery passion vibes of The viscount who loved me.
See full list of read-alikes: Bridgerton Season 2
Read-alikes: Season 3
The plot is thick at this point in the series, both on-screen and in book 4: Romancing Mister Bridgerton. If you’re addicted to the agony of unrequited love like Penelope, you’ll be hooked on these slow-burn tales of yearning.
The secret life of Miss Anna Marsh by Ella Quinn
As in Romancing Mister Bridgerton, these two novellas are stories of long unrequited love.
The duchess war by Courtney Milan
If you want a story of a wallflower finding love, at long last, then try this one.
Two rogues make a right by Cat Sebastian
A story of long unrequited love, as in Romancing Mister Bridgerton.
Wilde in love by Eloisa James
She’s not like other girls. If you fancy a classic fanfic plotline turned Regency romance, this story of a famous gentleman finding love with a quiet, unassuming woman might be your next guilty pleasure.
See full list of read-alikes: Bridgerton Season 3
Read-alikes: An offer from a gentleman
Justice for Benedict!
Pining after the loveable rogue? With the Shondaland/Netflix TV adaptation not necessarily following the order of the books, Benedict fans are waiting in agony for the day his story takes centre stage.
If you demand satisfaction, read Benedict’s dazzling Cinderella-vibes romance in An offer from a gentleman (book 3) to get your fill of the charming second-eldest Bridgerton brother. For more love stories based on fairy tales, meet these enchanting read-alikes:
The countess by Lynsay Sands
A fairy tale of a different sort, including overcoming some serious issues – much like in Benedict’s story. This title comes in eBook or eAudiobook format only.
The beast of Beswick by Amalie Howard
A smart, spicy and feminist retelling of Beauty and the Beast where Regency romance meets the enemies-to-lovers trope.
Beauty: a retelling of the story of Beauty & the beast by Robin McKinley
This teen fantasy is a thing of beauty (pun intended), as are most of McKinley’s books.
Read-alikes: Lady Whistledown
Can’t get enough of our mysterious gossip queen? Indulge in more scandalous writers and secret identities with these intriguing tales that give never-ending Lady Whistledown vibes.
Forever your Earl by Eva Leigh
If the story of an anonymous scandal sheet writer sounds like your thing, try this one.
Temptations of a wallflower by Eva Leigh
Not a scandal sheet writer, but a scandalous erotic novelist – taking Lady Whistledown even further!
Would I lie to the duke by Eva Leigh
Much like Lady Whistledown, this is a story of secret identities within the full glare of Society.
The suffragette scandal by Courtney Milan
A story of a newspaper editor, outspoken in support of women's rights. Naturally, her enemies are intent on destroying her business and silencing her for good.
Ready to read?
All these titles are available to borrow for free with your Auckland Council library card. Take a turn about the catalogue, pick out your next hot topic, and settle down in the drawing room!
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