Abby Ayles Books in Order

Where to Start Reading Abby Ayles

Abby Ayles is incredibly prolific, having published dozens of clean Regency and Victorian romances. If you are new to her historical world, diving in can feel a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, her series are structured as companion novels, meaning that while they share settings or minor characters, each book features a standalone romance with a satisfying happily-ever-after (HEA).

We highly recommend starting with one of these two entry points:

• Falling for the Hartfield Ladies Series: This is arguably her most popular series. Beginning with Falling for the Governess (2018), it showcases all of Ayles's signature tropes: class differences, high-stakes secrets, and deep emotional healing. It is the perfect introduction to her style.
• Tales of Magnificent Ladies Series: If you want to start where Ayles did, begin with her debut novel, The Lady, The Duke And The Gentleman (2017). This series focuses on resilient women finding love despite societal expectations.

Publication Order vs. Chronological Order

Ayles writes her series in a linear fashion, and the publication order is the most logical path to follow. Because the books in a specific series are released close together, reading them in order ensures you do not miss references to couples from previous books.

Here is what you need to know about reading order dynamics:

• Series Order is Key: You do not need to read the entire bibliography chronologically. However, you should read individual series in their published order to enjoy character cameos and timeline progression.
• Standalones: Ayles has written many standalone novels. These can be read at any time, completely independent of her main series.

What to Know Before You Start

Before you dive into Ayles's work, keep these details in mind:

• Wholesome Content: Her romances are clean and sweet, focusing on emotional intimacy, dialogue, and historical atmosphere rather than explicit content.
• Co-Authored Works: Ayles occasionally collaborates with other Regency authors, such as Fanny Finch (for example, on Saving Lady Abigail and Engaging Love). These collaborations retain her friendly, engaging tone.
• Historical Accuracy: With a Master's degree in History and Arts, Ayles packs her books with genuine period details, from the rigid social hierarchy to the intricacies of ballrooms and estate management.

Abby Ayles Series Reading Order

Tales of Magnificent Ladies Books

This series features independent-minded heroines navigating the complex social webs of 19th-century England.

1. The Lady The Duke And The Gentleman (2017)
2. A Broken Heart's Redemption (2018)
3. Capturing the Viscount's Heart (2019)
4. The Odd Mystery of the Cursed Duke (2019)
5. A Second Chance for the Tormented Lady (2019)
6. What the Governess is Hiding (2021)
7. A Tale of two Sisters (2021)
8. Desire and Fear (2021)

Falling for the Hartfield Ladies Books

Set around the lives and trials of the ladies of Hartfield, this series features some of Ayles's most beloved governance and nobility tropes.

1. Falling for the Governess (2018)
2. Saving Lady Abigail (2018)
3. A Cinderella for the Duke (2018)
4. A Mysterious Governess for the Reluctant Earl (2018)
5. Entangled with the Duke (2018)

Keys to a Lockridge Heart Books

A massive, emotional family saga following the Lockridge family as they search for love, redemption, and healing.

1. The Lady in the Gilded Cage (2019)
2. The Earl’s Wager for a Lady’s Heart (2019)
3. Melting a Duke's Winter Heart (2019)
4. A Guiding Light For The Lost Earl (2019)
5. A Loving Duke For The Shy Duchess (2019)
6. The Earl Behind the Mask (2020)
7. Freed by the Love of an Earl (2020)
8. A Reluctant Bride for the Baron (2020)
9. A Christmas Worth Remembering (2020)

Forbidden Loves and Dashing Lords Books

This series focuses on passionate romances that challenge the rigid conventions of Regency society.

1. A Forbidden Gamble for the Duke’s Heart (2020)
2. A Forbidden Bid for a Lady’s Heart (2020)
3. A Forbidden Love for the Rebellious Baron (2020)
4. A Lady’s Forgiveness (2021)

Marriages by Mistake Books

Exploring the classic romance trope of accidental commitments, forced marriages, and unexpected love.

1. The Lady's Gamble (2018)
2. Caught in the Storm of a Duke’s Heart (2020)
3. From Denial to Desire (2022)
4. The Governess and the Duke (2022)
5. Marriage by Mistake (2022)
6. The Language of a Lady's Heart (2022)
7. Saving the Imprisoned Earl (2022)
8. Engaging Love (2023)
9. Portrait of Love (2023)

Belles of the Ball Books

Focusing on the debutantes and ladies seeking love and navigating high society during the grand ball season.

1. Vera at the Ballroom (2023)
2. Olive at the Ballroom (2023)
3. Giovanna at the Ballroom (2023)
4. Esther at the Ballroom (2023)
5. Agnes at the Ballroom (2023)

Secret to the Ladies' Hearts / Regency Soulmates Books

Companion books that tie directly into the broader themes of the Hartfield Ladies and Ayles's early publications.

• The Lady's Patient (2018)
• The Secret To The Ladies' Hearts (2019)
• Falling For The Hartfield Ladies Collection (2019)

The Harrington Sisters Books

A newer series following the romantic destinies of the Harrington sisters.

1. Tame a Rake Duke (2024)

Standalone Novels and Novellas

If you want a quick break from series commitments, Ayles has written many standalone books that tell complete stories. Standalones like Loving a Lady (2018), Secret Dreams of a Fearless Governess (2019), and A Poisonous Flower for the Lady (2022) are ideal for weekend reading. You can also pick up her novella, The Lady’s Dilemma (2020), for a shorter Regency escape.