Regencies

Compiled by Shelia Rabe (1995)

A Regency romance is a historical romance set in England between the years 1810 and 1820 (roughly), when old King George III of England went crazy and his son was reigning in his stead as Prince Regent. Hence the term, "Regency" period. Jane Austen was the first Regency romance writer. (Research wasn't a difficult thing, as she lived during the time period.) Then came Georgette Heyer, who got most of us hooked on Regencies. Ms. Heyer wrote so many novels set in this period and was so popular, she spawned her own genre (a pretty amazing accomplishment).

What sets Regencies apart from other romances, in this author's opinion, is the fact that they are strong on witty dialogue and a comedy of manners. Much of the action is verbal and takes place in the drawing room. Of course, not all of the action is there. You can find anything from a sword fight or a duel at dawn to an elopement between the covers of a Regency.

Speaking of covers, not a lot happens between them in this genre. There are exceptions. Sex is sneaking into some Regencies now. But most of us Regency writers don't follow the hero and heroine into the bedroom after the passionate kiss on the last page of the book. Following the intricacies of their verbal sparring is quite exhausting enough without having to keep up with them in bed as well!