Every now and then (read, the last 18 months) we just need a bit of escapist fiction. Sometimes a lighthearted read is the perfect antidote to a long day. As you may have guessed if you’ve ready some of the other Book Club posts, I’m a big fan of books from older eras. I’m also a big fan of historical fiction. Over the years I’ve read some great books in this genre, but whenever I’m looking for something really light, I reach for Georgette Heyer.
Georgette Heyer has, in my opinion, flown under the radar to date as the meringue version of Jane Austen. She does write about other eras, but she is at her best in the Regency days. She is pretty well researched, from what I can tell, but to be honest I’m reading purely for the enjoyment not for critique!
Below are a few of my favourite Georgette Heyer books for those looking for a new favourite read.
The Black Sheep
This is one of the few books that have actually made me laugh out loud while reading. It’s a marvellous romp through Regency Bath, complete with mistaken identities, love triangles and elopements. The writing is clever enough to be funny and enjoyable, but also light enough to enjoy when you feel like you don’t have any brain power.
Frederica
All the best love stories start with a babysitting gig, right? When you’ve read this book you will concur absolutely. This is a sweet story about family ties and the joys of being an older sibling. There are also plenty of hilarious moments and, of course, a charming romance. It’s a book about rich people in another era, but somehow it’s still super relatable. Haven’t you ever had a younger sibling third wheel you and a date? Or maybe you were the third wheel. Either way, you’ll enjoy Frederica.
And there are so many more
Georgette Heyer wrote 57 books in her career, averaging about a book ahead from 1921 to her death in 1974. Her writing all started when she wrote a story for her brother when he was ill. Later her husband helped her with her writing, working together on the basic plots before she fleshed them out. Heyer didn’t only write Regency romances: she branched into detective stories and other time periods too. Only 52 of her books are still in print, but that’s enough to be getting started with, don’t you think?
Have you read any Heyer books? Which one is your favourite?
You’ve inspired me to try and get my hands on some of her books!
I’ve only read “false colours” which I absolutely love and have read multiple times.
Hi Erin, I’m so glad if I have! I think you’ll really enjoy her other books too. False Colours was a great read.
Yes, I’ve been inspired as well. I could do with a good laugh and some romance. I think that I will try ‘Black Sheep’.
Hi Sylvie, thanks for reading! Let me know how you find the book, it’s obviously one of my favourites. 🙂