5 Books to Read If You Loved Bridgerton

The third instalment of Bridgerton, released in two separate parts, was a much-anticipated watch for lovers of the show.

Everyone was excited to hear that Penelope would finally be centre-stage – and now that it’s over, I can’t be the only one missing the Bridgerton world.

I’ve not read the Bridgerton books yet, but I love the show. It’s full of glamorous outfits, dramatic reveals and crazy historic anachronisms. What’s not to love?

It’s true escapism at its best. You can forget about reality and immerse yourself in a world where nothing too bad ever happens. Like a historical version of the hit show Gossip Girl, it has captivated people across the world. Shona Rhimes is unstoppable!

So, whether you’re a fan of the books or you’re looking for something to fill a Bridgerton-sized hole – I’m here to help. Let’s dive into 5 great books to read if you loved Bridgerton.

1. Life Mask by Emma Donoghue

Life Mask by Emma Donoghue follows the story of Lord Derby, inventor of the Derby horse race and long-time suitor of famous comedy star Eliza Farren.

Derby is in an unhappy marriage and spends most of his time with Eliza, but she’s busy forming a dangerous friendship with aristocrat and suspected “Sapphist” Anne Damer – and the relationship could threaten all their lives.

The book is set under the shadow of the French Revolution, an intriguing and uncertain time for people across the world.

Like Bridgerton, you’re sure to lose yourself in the passions and ambitions of Eliza, Anne and Lord Derby – and this is a great LGBTQIA+ read to check out in Summer!

2. The Poldark books by Winston Graham

Winston Graham’s Poldark saga is set around the same time as Bridgerton, following a few important families in Cornwall, including the Poldarks and the Warleggans.

Set in Cornwall, these books are full of dramatic settings and romantic moments, spanning the generations. If you’re looking for a book series to lose yourself in over Summer, Poldark is the perfect choice!

Like the Bridgerton books and Netflix series, there are plenty of characters to get to know – and if you don’t fancy reading the books, you can watch the BBC series instead.

3. Green Darkness by Anya Seton

Green Darkness is a historical fiction novel that follows rich Englishman Richard Marsdon and his new wife Celia, an American woman.

They move to Richard’s estate in England, but all is not as it seems – and when Celia suffers a mental breakdown, she must look into her past to understand her illness.

Set between the 16th century and the present day, Green Darkness is a classic historical romance with plenty of love, lust and intrigue – not unlike Bridgerton!

4. I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

I Capture the Castle is a nostalgic read for anyone who wants to escape.

With beautiful settings and cosy descriptions, I Capture the Castle is the perfect Summer read – and I recommend reading it on the beach or in your local nature spot.

This book has the same dreamy feel as Bridgerton. Nothing particularly bad ever happens, and it’s full of romance – all told from the refreshing point of view of a young teenager coming of age.

5. Mortal Love by Elizabeth Hand

Mortal Love by Elizabeth Hand follows the life of a mysterious Victorian woman who becomes involved in the lives of several contemporary artists.

The book also tells the story of Daniel Rowlands, a journalist living in modern-day London who meets a similarly mysterious woman with a curious link to the art world.

Mortal Love by Elizabeth Hand will keep you guessing – just like Bridgerton – and you can let yourself escape into an intoxicating, fascinating historical world.

Do you watch Bridgerton? What’s your favourite historical fiction book? Have you read the Bridgerton books?

Let me know all your thoughts in the comments below 🙂

Happy reading x

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