There's a unique magic to a rainy day. The world outside slows down, hushed by the steady drumming of water against the windowpane. It’s an invitation to retreat, to brew a hot cup of tea or coffee, and to wrap yourself in the plush comfort of a warm blanket. This tranquil, slightly melancholic atmosphere creates the perfect sanctuary for escaping into another world, and no genre offers a more immersive and emotionally satisfying escape than historical romance. These novels are more than just love stories; they are time machines, transporting us to bygone eras of glittering ballrooms, windswept highlands, and gaslit city streets where passion and propriety collide.

The appeal of historical romance on a dreary day is deeply rooted in the current trends we see across platforms like Pinterest and TikTok. The rise of aesthetics like #Cottagecore, #DarkAcademia, and #Royalcore highlights a collective yearning for beauty, substance, and a touch of the dramatic—all hallmarks of the historical romance genre. Readers are no longer just looking for a simple love story; they are seeking rich, atmospheric worlds to get lost in, complex characters to root for, and a grand, sweeping emotional journey that makes the heart ache in the best possible way. The perfect rainy-day read must be immersive, emotionally resonant, and just long enough to last until the sun breaks through the clouds.

This curated list features ten historical romance novels that are perfect companions for a day spent indoors. From the sparkling wit of the Regency period to the rugged passion of the Scottish Highlands and the poignant ache of 20th-century turmoil, each of these books offers a unique and unforgettable escape. So, settle into your favourite reading nook, listen to the rhythm of the rain, and prepare to be swept away.

1. Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas

The Vibe: A deliciously angsty, marriage-of-convenience romance set in Victorian London that has become a touchstone of the genre.

Lisa Kleypas is a titan of historical romance, and Devil in Winter is often cited as her magnum opus. It’s the story of Evangeline Jenner, the shyest and wealthiest of the "Wallflowers"—a group of four young ladies who band together to find husbands. To escape her cruel, grasping relatives, Evie makes a desperate proposition to Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent, London's most notorious and breathtakingly handsome rake. She offers him her fortune in exchange for his protection through marriage. Sebastian, facing financial ruin, agrees, never expecting that the quiet, stammering wallflower he marries will be the one to finally capture his cynical heart.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

A rainy day calls for a story with depth, emotional complexity, and a hero whose redemption feels both hard-won and profoundly satisfying. Devil in Winter delivers this in spades. The book’s atmosphere is thick with the grit and glamour of Victorian England, from the smoky, decadent interiors of a gambling hell to the stately calm of a country estate. Sebastian’s transformation from a self-serving villain to a man utterly devoted to his wife is one of the most celebrated character arcs in romance literature. Kleypas masterfully peels back his layers, revealing the vulnerability beneath the rakish charm. Evie, in turn, is a wonderfully resilient heroine who finds her strength and voice, proving that still waters run deep. The emotional intimacy and palpable chemistry between them is a slow burn that builds into a comforting, radiant fire—the perfect antidote to a grey, chilly day. For readers who adore a story where love truly changes a person, this book is a must-read, a theme that resonates with many of the books featured in Our Top 10 Favorite Romance Books of All Time.

The novel’s pacing is exquisite. The first half is filled with simmering tension and witty, sharp dialogue as Evie and Sebastian navigate their unconventional arrangement. The second half, where their marriage is tested by outside threats, is a gripping and emotional ride that will have you completely engrossed, oblivious to the storm outside your window.

Ready to fall for a devilish lord? You can buy Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas on Amazon.

2. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

The Vibe: An epic, time-traveling saga of love, war, and survival set in the majestic and perilous Scottish Highlands of the 18th century.

Outlander is more than a book; it's a phenomenon. The story begins in 1945, when former combat nurse Claire Randall touches a standing stone while on a second honeymoon in Scotland and is hurtled back in time to 1743. There, she finds herself in a war-torn land, a "Sassenach" (outlander) in a world of clan politics and superstition. Her life is immediately threatened, and she is forced to marry Jamie Fraser, a chivalrous and courageous young Scottish warrior, for her own protection. What begins as a necessity soon blossoms into a love story of epic proportions, a passion that transcends time, space, and the boundaries of history itself.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

Rainy days are made for immersive reads, and no book is more immersive than Outlander. Gabaldon’s research is famously meticulous, and she paints a portrait of 18th-century Scotland that is so vivid and richly detailed you can practically feel the damp chill of the castle walls and smell the peat smoke in the air. The windswept, misty landscape of the Highlands becomes a character in its own right, its wild beauty a perfect mirror for the untamable love story at its core. It’s the kind of book you can sink into for hours, its sheer length and narrative density a welcome gift when you have a whole day to devote to reading. For a deeper dive into books that transport you, consider exploring The 10 Best Fantasy Romance Books of All Time, as Outlander beautifully straddles both genres.

The central romance between Jamie and Claire is the beating heart of the story. It is a mature, complex, and deeply passionate partnership built on mutual respect, sacrifice, and an unbreakable bond. Their journey is fraught with danger, political intrigue, and heartbreaking loss, making their moments of quiet intimacy all the more precious. Watching them navigate the brutal realities of the past is a compelling and emotionally charged experience. Information about the popular TV adaptation can be found on the official Starz website.

Begin your epic journey through time by purchasing Outlander by Diana Gabaldon on Amazon.

3. Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore

The Vibe: A smart, sparkling, and feminist romance set in the Gilded Age, featuring a bluestocking heroine and a powerful, stoic duke.

Evie Dunmore’s debut novel was an instant hit, lauded for its intelligent prose and its thoughtful exploration of women's rights in the late Victorian era. The story follows Annabelle Archer, a brilliant young woman of humble origins who has earned a scholarship to the University of Oxford—one of the first women ever admitted. The scholarship has one condition: she must support the women's suffrage movement. Her mission leads her to the influential Duke of Montgomery, a cold and calculating politician who is the very embodiment of the patriarchal system she is trying to change. As Annabelle attempts to win him over to her cause, an undeniable and inconvenient attraction ignites between them, forcing them both to question their deepest convictions.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This book is the literary equivalent of a rich, complex cup of tea. It’s comforting but also invigorating. The intellectual sparring between Annabelle and Sebastian (the Duke) is an absolute delight, their witty banter crackling with intelligence and suppressed desire. It’s a perfect read for a day when you want a love story that engages your mind as well as your heart. Dunmore seamlessly weaves fascinating historical details about the burgeoning suffrage movement in England into the narrative, giving the story a weight and relevance that is deeply satisfying. To learn more about this fascinating period, you can visit the British Library's online resources on the suffrage movement.

The romance is a delicious slow burn, a classic "enemies-to-lovers" (or perhaps "opposites-attract") setup. Watching the stern, unyielding Duke of Montgomery slowly fall for the passionate, idealistic Annabelle is a masterclass in romantic tension. The rainy-day setting amplifies the novel's cozy, academic atmosphere—you can easily imagine yourself tucked away in an Oxford library, poring over books alongside Annabelle. For those who love romances where the characters challenge each other to be better, a theme explored in Our Top 10 Favorite Grumpy Sunshine Romance Books Of All Time, this is an unmissable read.

Challenge the patriarchy and fall in love by buying Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore on Amazon.

4. A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare

The Vibe: A hilarious, adventurous, and swoon-worthy Regency road-trip romance that will make you laugh out loud.

When you're stuck inside on a rainy day, sometimes the best escape is a story that is pure, unadulterated fun. Tessa Dare is a master of the romantic comedy, and A Week to Be Wicked is one of her most beloved works. Minerva Highwood is a quiet, intellectual geologist who needs to get to a symposium in Scotland. Colin Sandhurst, Lord Payne, is a charming, roguish lord who needs to escape a scandal in London. In a moment of desperation, Minerva claims they are engaged, and Colin, seeing an opportunity for a quick getaway, agrees to play along. What follows is a chaotic and utterly delightful road trip in a cramped carriage, filled with witty banter, escalating romantic tension, and one very memorable scene involving a plaster cast of a unicorn horn.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This book is a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. The humour is sparkling, the dialogue is whip-smart, and the chemistry between the quirky, brainy heroine and the roguish, secretly soft-hearted hero is electric. It’s a low-angst, high-joy read that is guaranteed to lift your spirits. The "forced proximity" of the road trip trope is used to perfection here, breaking down the characters' defences and allowing for moments of genuine vulnerability and connection amidst the comedic chaos. For readers looking for more stories that feature witty, intelligent heroines, the list of The 10 Best Smart & Funny Romance Books of All Time offers fantastic companion reads.

Beneath the laughter, there is a truly touching love story about two people who feel like outsiders finding their perfect match. Minerva’s passion for geology and Colin’s secret artistic talent make them beautifully realised, unconventional characters for their time. Their journey to accepting themselves and each other is as heartwarming as it is humorous. It’s the kind of book you’ll finish with a happy sigh, feeling warm and fuzzy from the inside out.

Embark on the most charming road trip of your life by purchasing A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare on Amazon.

5. Indigo by Beverly Jenkins

The Vibe: A powerful, poignant, and deeply romantic story of love and freedom set in the Antebellum South, from a trailblazing author of historical romance.

Beverly Jenkins is a legend in the romance world, celebrated for her meticulously researched and beautifully written novels featuring African American characters. Indigo is one of her most iconic works. Hester Wyatt is a determined and courageous member of the Underground Railroad, smuggling enslaved people to freedom. When she is injured, she is brought to the home of Galen Vachon, a wealthy, brooding, and fiercely independent member of Michigan's free Black community. As Hester recovers under his roof, their strong wills clash, but their shared dedication to the cause of freedom forges a powerful and undeniable bond between them, leading to a love that is as dangerous as it is profound.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

A rainy day is the perfect time for a story with substance and emotional weight, and Indigo provides an unforgettable reading experience. Beverly Jenkins, whose amazing backlist can be explored on her official website, does not shy away from the harsh realities of the era, but she centres her story on Black love, joy, and resilience. The book is a masterclass in balancing historical gravity with a tender, passionate, and ultimately hopeful love story. The rich historical context is woven seamlessly into the narrative, offering a perspective that is critically important and all too rare in the genre.

The romance between the fiercely independent Hester and the proud, protective Galen is a beautiful slow burn. Their relationship is a true partnership, built on respect for each other's strength and intelligence. They are two powerful individuals who find that they are even stronger together. The novel is filled with lush descriptions, vibrant supporting characters, and a deep sense of community that makes the world feel incredibly real and alive. It’s an emotional, empowering, and deeply satisfying read that will stay with you long after the rain has stopped. This book is a powerful example of the kind of epic love story found in The 10 Best Romance Books That Will Make You Cry.

Discover a love story that changed history by buying Indigo by Beverly Jenkins on Amazon.

6. The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne

The Vibe: A dark, dramatic, and intensely passionate Victorian romance brimming with angst, secrets, and a tormented hero.

For those whose rainy-day mood leans more towards the gothic and dramatic, The Highwayman is the perfect choice. This book tells the story of Dorian Blackwell, a man who was betrayed, imprisoned, and left for dead, only to re-emerge as the fearsome and shadowy crime lord known as "The Blackheart of Ben More." The only thing he desires is revenge on the people who wronged him. But his plans are complicated by Farah Mackenzie, a brave and beautiful governess who is the sole witness to his true identity. Bound by a shared, traumatic past, Dorian and Farah are drawn into a dangerous and all-consuming love affair that could either be their salvation or their ruin.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This novel is the epitome of atmospheric reading. The setting is a dark, gritty, and gaslit Victorian London, a world of stark contrasts between the glittering aristocracy and the shadowy criminal underworld. Kerrigan Byrne's writing is lush and evocative, creating a gothic, almost cinematic feel that is perfect for a stormy day. The story is packed with high-stakes drama, heart-pounding suspense, and a level of emotional intensity that is utterly captivating. If you love a hero with a dark past and a heroine with the strength to save him, a trope often explored in The 10 Best Dark Romance Books of All Time, this book is essential reading.

The romance between Dorian and Farah is the fiery core of the novel. It’s a tumultuous, passionate, and deeply emotional journey. Dorian is a classic tormented hero, consumed by his quest for vengeance, and Farah is his perfect match—a woman of unwavering strength, compassion, and courage. Their chemistry is explosive, and their love story is an epic tale of healing, redemption, and the fight to find light in the darkness. You can check out reviews and ratings for this fan-favourite on its Goodreads page.

Embrace the darkness and find a passionate love by purchasing The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne on Amazon.

7. The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

The Vibe: A sweeping, poignant, and bittersweet story of first love, tragic separation, and a second chance, set against the backdrop of political upheaval in 1953 Tehran and present-day America.

Expanding the definition of historical romance, The Stationery Shop is a perfect choice for a rainy day that calls for a good, cathartic cry. In 1953 Tehran, two teenagers, Roya and Bahman, meet in a charming local stationery shop and fall deeply in love. They dream of a future together, but on the eve of their wedding, a violent coup erupts in the city, and in the chaos, Bahman disappears. Heartbroken, Roya eventually moves to America to build a new life. Sixty years later, fate brings them face to face once more, offering them a final chance to understand the devastating secret that tore them apart.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This novel is a beautiful, heart-wrenching, and immersive story that is perfect for a day of quiet reflection. The rain outside will seem a fitting soundtrack to the story's poignant and often melancholic tone. Kamali’s prose is exquisite, beautifully evoking the sights, sounds, and smells of 1950s Tehran, a city brimming with intellectual and political fervour. The stationery shop itself becomes a magical, comforting space, a symbol of the love and hope that blossoms within its walls.

The love story between Roya and Bahman is tender and achingly real. It’s a powerful exploration of the enduring impact of first love and the way that past events continue to shape our present. The narrative, which gracefully moves between the past and the present, builds a compelling mystery around Bahman’s disappearance that will keep you turning the pages. This is more than just a romance; it’s a story about memory, fate, family, and the search for truth. It’s a profoundly moving book that explores the depths of enduring love, a key theme in many of The 10 Best Romance Books That Will Make You Swoon.

Prepare to have your heart broken and put back together again by buying The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali on Amazon.

8. A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux

The Vibe: A beloved, classic time-travel romance that blends medieval history, modern wit, and a truly magical love story.

A rainy day can often spark a desire for pure, unadulterated escapism, and Jude Deveraux’s A Knight in Shining Armor has been providing that escape for readers for decades. The story follows Dougless Montgomery, a modern woman who is abandoned by her awful boyfriend while on holiday in England. Heartbroken and alone in an old church, she breaks down and weeps, only to find a 16th-century knight in full armour, Nicholas Stafford, Earl of Thornwyck, magically appearing before her. Nicholas has been waiting centuries for the woman who can clear his name of treason. Dougless, in turn, finds an unexpected protector and soulmate in the chivalrous knight. Their journey takes them back to Tudor England, where they must unravel a historical conspiracy and fight for a love that defies the laws of time.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This book is the ultimate comfort read. It’s a charming, magical, and utterly romantic story that captures the fairytale essence of finding your own "knight in shining armor." The contrast between Dougless's modern sensibilities and Nicholas's medieval code of honour provides a wonderful source of both humour and heartfelt emotion. It's a story that perfectly blends adventure, historical intrigue, and a swoon-worthy romance. The novel’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, a sentiment often shared by readers at romance-centric bookstores like The Ripped Bodice.

Watching Dougless, a woman who has been consistently undervalued, find her strength and worth in the past is an empowering and satisfying journey. The love that grows between her and Nicholas is tender and profound, a true meeting of souls across the centuries. It’s a book that allows you to fully suspend your disbelief and get swept away by the sheer romance of it all, making it an ideal choice to curl up with when the weather outside is bleak. It perfectly captures the kind of epic, fated love often found in The 10 Best Paranormal Romance Books of All Time.

Believe in magic and find your soulmate across time by purchasing A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux on Amazon.

9. The Duke and I by Julia Quinn

The Vibe: The sparkling, witty, and now-iconic Regency romance that started the Bridgerton phenomenon.

Thanks to the hit Netflix series, the world has fallen in love with the Bridgerton family, and it all began with this book. The Duke and I tells the story of Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest daughter of the loving and boisterous Bridgerton clan. Tired of being seen as merely a friend by London's eligible bachelors, she enters into a fake courtship with Simon Basset, the brooding and handsome Duke of Hastings. The plan is simple: their ruse will make Daphne look more desirable to other suitors, and it will keep the matchmaking mamas of the ton off Simon's back. But as they engage in witty banter at balls and share stolen glances across crowded rooms, their pretend affection begins to feel surprisingly real, complicated by the dark secret from Simon’s past that has made him vow to never marry or have children.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

This book is pure, fizzy, delightful fun. Reading The Duke and I on a rainy day feels like being invited to the most exclusive and entertaining house party. Julia Quinn’s writing is renowned for its humour and charm, and the dialogue is sharp, funny, and full of life. The Bridgerton family dynamic is a joy to read, their boisterous affection providing a warm and comforting backdrop to the central romance. If you’re a fan of the show, it’s a wonderful experience to see where it all started and to get a deeper insight into the characters' inner thoughts.

The "fake relationship" trope is a fan favourite for a reason, and Quinn executes it perfectly. The evolving relationship between Daphne and Simon is filled with simmering sexual tension and genuine emotional connection. You can feel them slowly falling for each other, even as they try to deny it. It’s a story that is both lighthearted and emotionally satisfying, a perfect blend of escapist fantasy and heartfelt romance. It exemplifies the kind of story that makes readers fall in love with the genre, a quality shared by many of the books in The 10 Best Romance Books for Beginners.

Join the most talked-about family of the ton by buying The Duke and I by Julia Quinn on Amazon.

10. The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willig

The Vibe: A delightful and adventurous blend of Regency romance, spy thriller, and modern-day academic mystery.

This book offers a unique and utterly charming twist on the historical romance genre. In the present day, American graduate student Eloise Kelly is in London, trying to write her dissertation on British spies during the Napoleonic Wars. She uncovers a potential link to the Purple Gentian, England's most elusive spy, and his mysterious counterpart, the Pink Carnation. The narrative then flashes back to 1803, introducing us to Amy Balcourt, a seemingly flighty debutante who is desperate to join the spy ring run by her brother. She sets her sights on Lord Richard Selwick, a handsome and serious member of the Purple Gentian's league, determined to prove her worth. What follows is a tale of espionage, secret identities, and an unexpected romance.

Why It’s Perfect for a Rainy Day

The Secret History of the Pink Carnation is the perfect choice for a reader who loves a little bit of everything. The dual timelines add a compelling layer of mystery, as Eloise's modern-day research slowly uncovers the secrets of the past. It’s a clever, engaging structure that will keep you hooked. The historical plotline is a wonderful romp, filled with adventure, humour, and a healthy dose of danger. For more on the organisations that support and celebrate such genre-blending novels, you can visit the Romantic Novelists' Association website.

The romance between the determined, and often underestimated, Amy and the stoic, duty-bound Richard is a delight. It’s a wonderful "opposites attract" pairing, and their spy-related escapades force them into a partnership that quickly blossoms into something more. The book is lighthearted and fun, but it also has a genuine sense of adventure and intrigue. It’s an effervescent and intelligent read, perfect for brightening up a gloomy day and getting lost in a world of secrets and romance. The book’s blend of action and love makes it a great fit for fans of the books on The 10 Best Action Romance Books of All Time.

Uncover a delicious secret and fall in love with a spy by purchasing The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willig on Amazon.

Conclusion

A rainy day offers a precious opportunity to pause, to find comfort, and to lose yourself in the pages of a good book. Historical romance, with its rich worlds, compelling characters, and epic love stories, is a genre perfectly suited to this purpose. Each of the ten novels on this list provides a unique and unforgettable escape, a portal to another time and place where passion, adventure, and happily-ever-afters reign supreme.

Whether you are drawn to the sparkling ballrooms of Regency England, the rugged shores of 18th-century Scotland, or the gaslit streets of Victorian London, there is a story here waiting to capture your imagination. These books are more than just a way to pass the time until the sun comes out; they are an invitation to experience the full spectrum of human emotion, to believe in the transformative power of love, and to remember that even on the greyest of days, there is beauty and magic to be found. So, the next time the clouds gather and the rain begins to fall, you’ll know exactly which world you want to escape to.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What defines a "historical romance" novel? A historical romance is a novel set in a time period before the mid-20th century. A key rule for most publishers is that the setting must be at least 50 years in the past. The central plot of the book revolves around the romantic relationship between the main characters.

   
   

2. What's the difference between a Regency and a Victorian romance? The Regency era was a short period from roughly 1811 to 1820, though the "Regency romance" genre often covers the broader period from the 1790s to the 1830s. These stories are typically characterized by wit, formal society, and authors like Jane Austen and Julia Quinn. The Victorian era followed, from 1837 to 1901. Victorian romances often explore the societal changes brought on by the Industrial Revolution, and can sometimes have a darker, grittier, or more gothic tone.

3. Are all of these books "spicy"? How can I find out the spice level of a book? The "spice" level (level of sexual content) varies greatly between these books. For example, The Highwayman is significantly spicier than The Stationery Shop. A great resource is to check reader reviews on Goodreads or specialized romance book blogs, as many reviewers will mention the heat level.

4. I'm new to historical romance. Which book on this list should I start with? The Duke and I by Julia Quinn is a fantastic starting point. It's light, witty, and a great introduction to the tropes and charms of Regency romance. If you prefer something more adventurous, A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare is another excellent and accessible choice.

5. What is a "wallflower" in the context of historical romance? A "wallflower" is a term for a young woman at a social event, like a ball, who is shy, overlooked, or does not have a partner to dance with, so she stands against the wall. In romance novels, these characters often become heroines who possess hidden depths and strength, and their stories are about them finding their voice and their happily-ever-after.

6. Are there historical romances that feature LGBTQ+ characters? Yes, absolutely! The genre is becoming increasingly inclusive. Authors like Cat Sebastian, KJ Charles, and Olivia Waite write acclaimed historical romance novels featuring LGBTQ+ main characters.

7. Why are Scottish/Highlander romances so popular? The appeal often lies in the "rugged hero" archetype—the brave, kilted warrior—and the wild, romantic setting of the Scottish Highlands. These stories often feature themes of clan loyalty, ancient traditions, and a passionate, almost primal love story that readers find very compelling.

8. Where can I find more historical romance recommendations? Websites like Goodreads, the blog Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, and romance-specific podcasts like That Love Podcast are excellent resources. Following #HistoricalRomance on TikTok and Instagram will also lead you to many reader recommendations.

9. Do I need to know a lot of history to enjoy these books? Not at all! A good historical romance author will weave in the necessary historical context so that you understand the world without needing prior knowledge. In fact, many people find that they learn fascinating historical details from reading these books.

10. What if I liked the Bridgerton TV show? Will I like the books? Yes, most likely! The books have the same core characters and romantic pairings, but they offer a deeper look into the characters' internal thoughts and motivations. While the show has a more modern, diverse, and ensemble feel, the books focus more tightly on one couple per story and are filled with the witty charm that made the show a hit.

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Escape the gloomy weather with our curated list of the 10 best historical romances for a rainy day. From the witty ballrooms of Regency England to the sweeping Scottish Highlands, find your perfect, cozy, and immersive read to curl up with until the sun comes out.