A History of the UK Fire Service

300 years ago, the first public fire brigade was established in the UK. But fire brigades have existed in some form for much longer. Read more about the history of the fire service in the UK, and firefighting in the 18th century.

A Season of Invitations Begins Today

A Season of Invitations begins today! From Regency country estates to Victorian New York, featuring a mix of sweet and steamy love stories, enjoy these historical romance novellas about love found during the revels of the festive season. This month sees the release of Under the Kissing Bough and The Christmas Masquerade. Read more for excerpts and buy links.

Book Hooks: Tea for Two

An Austen-inspired short story duet Jane Austen and tea. What more could one ask for? Enjoy two tea parties, two romances and two characters from one of the world’s most beloved authors. In this Regency romance short story duet gossip-loving Mrs Jennings meddles in affairs of the heart, and scandalous Henry Crawford turns heads once … Continue reading Book Hooks: Tea for Two →

Georgette Heyer: Seminal Author or Anti-Semite

In May 1926, Georgette Heyer published 'These Old Shades'. While the novel is said to have cemented her position as a historical romance author, her legacy to the genre is complicated. Read more to find out why.

The Regency Waltz: Scandalous Twirling

Hi! The waltz features in many Regency romances, but was it as scandalous as suggested? Read more to find out.

Harriot Mellon – A Real Radical Heiress

Harriot Mellon rose from Irish-born travelling actress to one of the richest women in Regency England. Plus, she also proves that women could control their own money, even if they were married. How did she do it? Read more to find out.