Many women love a good Regency romance.
Books like Pride and Prejudice have a special hold on our hearts, capturing the charm, cleverness, and romance of the Regency era. More than 200 years since its publication, Regency romance continues to captivate readers.
We explored why this genre remains beloved, with thoughts from authors Heidi Kimball, Arlem Hawks, Joanna Barker, and Megan Walker.
The Allure of Regency Romance
Heidi Kimball shared, “I love romance in general, but we love Regency because of how different it is from the world we live in.” The formality and elegance of the Regency period offer a stark contrast to our fast-paced, casual lives. As Kimball hilariously noted, “My kids call me ‘bro.’ But I would prefer to be called ‘madam’ or ‘miss’ or ‘lady.'”
A Wholesome Escape
Arlem Hawks emphasized the wholesomeness of Regency romance: “Anybody can pick up my book, and there isn’t content you have to be worried about.” This genre provides a safe, enjoyable escape for readers of all ages, bringing families together through shared reading experiences.
Inspiration from History
The authors draw inspiration from their travels and historical research. “We recently took a trip all over the UK,” said one author, highlighting the importance of experiencing the settings they write about. This dedication to authenticity enriches their storytelling.
Balancing Writing and Motherhood
Megan Walker discussed the challenges of balancing writing with motherhood: “Being a mother is our highest calling, but writing brings us so much joy.” The authors prioritize their families while pursuing their passion for writing, demonstrating that it’s possible to succeed in both areas.
The Power of Community
Writing can be a solitary endeavor, but these authors have found support and friendship in each other. Joanna Barker explained, “We read each other’s chapters, brainstorm together, and share our lives.” This camaraderie has been a source of strength and inspiration for them.
The Local Writing Scene
Utah has a vibrant writing community, particularly for Regency romance. “There are so many events and a ton of authors here,” said Arlem. This supportive environment fosters creativity and collaboration among writers.
Supporting Local Authors
You can find the works of these talented authors at various retailers, including Deseret Book, Seagull Book, and Amazon.
Arlem Hawks:
Georgana’s Secret
Beyond the Lavender Fields
Along a Breton Shore
Across the Star-Kissed Sea
Megan Walker:
Lakeshire Park
Miss Newbury’s List
Highcliffe House
Heidi Kimball:
A Guarded Heart
Where the Stars Meet the Sea
Heart in the Highlands
A Not-So-Distant Love
Joanna Barker:
The Truth About Miss Ashbourne
Miss Adeline’s Match
Secrets and Suitors
Otherwise Engaged
A Game of Hearts
A Heart Worth Stealing
To Charm a Lady
So True a Love
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