Step into the captivating world of Enlightenment, where forbidden love and self-discovery unfold against the backdrop of Regency Scotland’s rigid social order! Joanna Chambers’ historical romance series follows David Lauriston, a principled young lawyer, and Lord Murdo Balfour, a charismatic nobleman, as their unexpected connection challenges societal norms and sparks an unforgettable journey.
With its blend of heartfelt romance, rich historical detail, and nuanced exploration of identity, Enlightenment has won over readers who crave emotional depth and authenticity. Let’s dive into the series’ origins, stories, and lasting allure!
How Enlightenment Began
Joanna Chambers, a UK-based author with a knack for crafting layered M/M romances, launched the Enlightenment series in 2013 with Provoked. Inspired by her love for historical fiction and a desire to explore queer narratives in restrictive eras, Chambers set out to create a story that felt both true to its time and emotionally resonant. Her meticulous research into Regency Scotland’s legal and social landscape shaped the series’ vivid setting, while her shift from traditional M/F romance to M/M allowed her to tackle unique challenges, like portraying love under the threat of persecution.
Chambers’ journey as a writer began in her thirties, rekindled by a rediscovery of romance novels after years of motherhood. Enlightenment emerged as a passion project, blending her storytelling finesse with a commitment to historical accuracy and emotional authenticity.
The Heart of Enlightenment
The series spans six books, with the first three—Provoked, Beguiled, and Enlightened—forming the core trilogy of David and Murdo’s romance. In Provoked (2013), David, a lowborn lawyer defending weavers accused of treason, grapples with his attraction to men. A chance encounter with Murdo, a hedonistic aristocrat, ignites a connection that upends his celibate life. Beguiled (2013) sees them reunite during King George IV’s visit to Edinburgh, their chemistry deepening despite David’s internal conflict. Enlightened (2014) delivers their hard-won happily-ever-after, as David embraces his love for Murdo amid personal and societal obstacles.
Later books, like Restored (2020), introduce new pairings in the same world, but the trilogy remains the heart of the series. Themes of self-acceptance, class disparity, and the tension between duty and desire weave through each story. Chambers’ slow-burn storytelling and Edinburgh’s atmospheric role as a character create a vivid, immersive experience. Her unflinching look at homophobia and moral debates adds depth, though some find her approach occasionally preachy.
The series’ style balances romance with philosophical reflection, exploring what it means to live authentically in a world that demands conformity. Fans praise its smart characters and emotional payoff, calling it a masterclass in historical romance done right.
Why Enlightenment Resonates
Enlightenment stands out in the M/M romance genre for its rich historical context and emotional complexity. By centering queer love in Regency Scotland, Chambers offers a fresh perspective, appealing to readers who might not typically pick up historical romance. Its slow-paced, character-driven narrative has earned a dedicated fanbase, with reviewers hailing it as an “epic romance” that restores hope in love’s triumph.
The series’ legacy lies in its ability to humanize the struggles of queer individuals in a repressive era, making it a touchstone for fans of thoughtful, inclusive storytelling. Its influence continues to inspire authors tackling diverse historical narratives, proving that even niche stories can leave a lasting mark.
- Publication Years: 2013–2020
- Number of Books: 6 (3 core, 2 standalone, 1 novella)
- Setting: 1820s Scotland
- Genre: Historical M/M Romance
Grab Provoked and lose yourself in Enlightenment’s world of passion, courage, and Regency romance!