Step into the enchanting world of the Proper Romance Victorian / Dread Penny Society series, where penny dreadful authors moonlight as secret heroes in Victorian London! Penned by Sarah M. Eden, this delightful blend of historical romance, mystery, and social justice captures the heart with its witty characters and immersive 1860s setting. Perfect for fans of clean romance and gothic intrigue, this series is a hidden gem waiting to sweep you away.
How Proper Romance Victorian / Dread Penny Society Began
Sarah M. Eden, a USA Today bestselling author, launched the Dread Penny Society series in 2019, inspired by her love for Victorian literature and history. Fascinated by the era’s penny dreadfuls—cheap, thrilling serialized stories—Eden crafted a world where authors of these tales double as vigilantes fighting for the downtrodden. Her research-heavy approach and knack for tender romance birthed a series that’s both charming and socially conscious, earning accolades like the 2019 Foreword Reviews INDIE Awards Gold for Romance.
The Heart of Proper Romance Victorian / Dread Penny Society
The series kicks off with The Lady and the Highwayman (2019), where Elizabeth Black, a school headmistress by day, writes scandalous penny dreadfuls as 'Mr. King' by night. Her rivalry with fellow author Fletcher Walker sparks romance and adventure as they navigate the Dread Penny Society’s secret missions. The Gentleman and the Thief (2020) follows Hollis Darby, a broke gentleman writing under a pseudonym, who falls for Ana Newport, a music teacher-turned-thief. The Merchant and the Rogue (2021) introduces Brogan Donnelly, an Irish immigrant, and Vera Sorokina, a Russian shopkeeper, weaving immigrant experiences into a suspenseful romance. The series wraps with The Queen and the Knave (2023), where Móirín Donnelly and Detective Fitz Parkington chase a criminal mastermind, tying up the series’ mysteries.
Eden’s stories shine with themes of justice, compassion, and love, set against the gritty yet glittering backdrop of 1860s London. The inclusion of faux penny dreadfuls within each novel adds a playful, gothic flair, while strong female characters and diverse perspectives—like Irish and Russian immigrants—bring depth to the clean, heartfelt romances. Fans adore the series’ blend of humor, suspense, and historical detail, making each book a cozy yet thrilling escape.
Why Proper Romance Victorian / Dread Penny Society Resonates
The Dread Penny Society series has carved a niche in historical romance, blending the escapist charm of Victorian fiction with modern sensibilities. Its focus on social justice resonates with readers who crave stories of hope and heroism. Eden’s ability to craft relatable characters and authentic settings has earned a loyal fanbase, with the series’ anthology, The Dread Penny Society: The Complete Penny Dreadful Collection, celebrated for its gothic short stories. Its wholesome yet adventurous tone makes it a standout for readers seeking clean romance with a dash of mystery.
- Publication Years: 2019–2023
- Number of Books: Five main novels, plus one anthology
- Awards: 2019 Foreword Reviews INDIE Awards Gold for The Lady and the Highwayman
Grab The Lady and the Highwayman and dive into the Proper Romance Victorian / Dread Penny Society’s world of romance, mystery, and Victorian valor!