Step into the dazzling world of Playful Brides, where Regency-era romance sparkles with wit, passion, and a dash of scandal! Valerie Bowman’s beloved series whisks readers to 19th-century England, where strong-willed heroines and roguish heroes navigate love’s twists and turns. With stories inspired by classic plays like The Philadelphia Story and Much Ado About Nothing, Playful Brides blends humor, heart, and historical charm into a delightful escape for romance fans.
From masquerade balls to secret marriages, each book in the series delivers a fresh adventure, weaving interconnected characters into a vibrant tapestry of love and mischief. Whether you’re a Regency romance devotee or new to the genre, Playful Brides promises an irresistible journey through a world where love always finds a way.
How Playful Brides Began
Valerie Bowman, an award-winning author with a knack for racy Regency romps, launched the Playful Brides series in 2014 with The Unexpected Duchess. Inspired by her love for historical romance and classic literature, Bowman crafted a series that reimagines beloved plays in a Regency setting. Her goal? To create witty, romantic tales that capture the spirit of the era while celebrating strong, independent women. With a background in English and history from Smith College, Bowman infuses her stories with authentic period details and playful banter, earning her a loyal following.
The Heart of Playful Brides
The Playful Brides series spans 13 books, each a standalone romance with recurring characters and interconnected plots. The Unexpected Duchess kicks things off with Lady Lucy Upton’s spirited efforts to save her friend from an unwanted suitor, only to find love with a war-weary lord. The Irresistible Rogue, inspired by The Philadelphia Story, follows Lady Daphne Swift and her roguish husband, Captain Rafferty Cavendish, as they navigate a secret marriage and a spy mission filled with seduction. A Duke Like No Other explores a second-chance romance between a duke and his estranged wife, blending mystery and rekindled passion. The Untamed Earl delivers a playful twist as a young woman transforms a rakish earl into a suitable suitor, only to fall for him herself.
Themes of love, personal growth, and defying societal norms run through the series. Bowman’s heroines are bold and clever, often challenging the constraints of Regency society, while her heroes evolve from rogues to devoted partners. The series’ playful tone, steamy romance, and clever nods to classic plays create a distinctive style that balances humor with heartfelt emotion. Set against the backdrop of glittering ballrooms and lush country estates, Playful Brides immerses readers in a world of elegance and intrigue.
Why Playful Brides Resonates
Playful Brides has carved a niche in Regency romance with its blend of humor, adventure, and empowering characters. Critics praise Bowman’s smart, sensual storytelling, with outlets like USA Today calling her novels “merry, intelligent, and wholly satisfying.” Fans adore the series’ interconnected narratives, which reward longtime readers with familiar faces and new love stories. By drawing on timeless plays, Bowman offers a fresh take on the genre, appealing to both romance purists and newcomers seeking escapist fun. The series’ lasting appeal lies in its ability to make readers laugh, swoon, and root for love against all odds.
- Publication Years: 2014–2019
- Number of Books: 13
- Notable Awards: RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance (The Unexpected Duchess)
Ready to waltz into Regency romance? Grab The Unexpected Duchess and dive into the sparkling world of Playful Brides today!