When it comes to romance novels, few things can capture the imagination quite like the combination of history and heritage. Whether you’re a fan of epic love stories set against the backdrop of the past or enjoy the rich and vivid details of another era, there’s no shortage of great books for you to explore. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best romance novels for fans of history and heritage, including everything from classic favorites to hidden gems you might have yet to read.

“Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon

No list of historical romance novels would be complete without mentioning “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon. This epic, time-traveling saga follows the story of Claire Randall, a WWII nurse who is transported back in time to 18th-century Scotland. There, she falls in love with Jamie Fraser, a brave and handsome Scottish warrior, and together they face countless challenges as they navigate their treacherous world. With lush descriptions of the Scottish landscape, richly drawn characters, and a timeless love story that spans centuries, “Outlander” is a must-read for anyone who loves romance and history.

“The Bronze Horseman” by Paullina Simons

Set against the backdrop of WWII-era Russia, “The Bronze Horseman” is a sweeping romance novel that tells the story of Tatiana and Alexander. These two young people fall in love amidst the chaos of war. Simons’ writing is rich and evocative, and her characters are deeply layered and complex, making this novel a truly immersive and unforgettable read. With vivid descriptions of life in Soviet Russia, including the siege of Leningrad and the brutalities of war, this book is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love.

“The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah

While not strictly a romance novel, “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah is a powerful and moving story of love, loss, and sacrifice set against the backdrop of WWII-era France. The novel tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who find themselves caught up in the horrors of war in different ways. With abundant descriptions of the French countryside and vivid portrayals of the realities of war, “The Nightingale” is a heart-wrenching and unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

“The Far Pavilions” by M.M. Kaye

A true historical romance classic, “The Far Pavilions” by M.M. Kaye tells the story of Ashton Pelham-Martyn, a young Englishman raised in India and eventually caught up in the Indian Mutiny of 1857. Along the way, he falls in love with Princess Anjuli, a beautiful and headstrong Indian princess. With vivid descriptions of life in colonial India, including the opulence of the British Raj and the poverty and chaos of the Indian countryside, this novel is a sweeping epic that is not to be missed.

“The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger

Another time-traveling romance, “The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger, is a unique and haunting love story that transcends time and space. The novel tells the story of Henry DeTamble, a man who travels through time uncontrollably, and his wife, Clare, who must navigate the challenges of a relationship that is always in flux. With beautifully drawn characters and a timeless love story that spans decades, “The Time Traveler’s Wife” is a true masterpiece of romantic literature.