Cathy Maxwell Books in Order

Where to Start Reading Cathy Maxwell

With dozens of historical romance novels to her name, Cathy Maxwell has built several highly interconnected worlds. Fortunately for readers, she writes her books to be standalone-friendly; you can jump in almost anywhere without feeling lost. However, to get the full emotional impact of her character arcs and recurring family dynamics, reading them in order is highly recommended.

If you are new to Cathy Maxwell's work, the absolute best place to start is with The Cameron Sisters series, beginning with Temptation of a Proper Governess (2004). This series features her trademark mix of humor, warmth, and engaging family ties. Another fantastic modern starting point is Marrying the Duke, starting with the quick prequel novella A Little Thing Called Love (2015) followed by The Match of the Century (2015), which showcases her talent for witty banter and high-society matchmaking.

What to Know Before You Start

Cathy Maxwell's stories are set primarily in the Regency and early Victorian eras, blending detailed historical settings with spirited, independent heroines and dashing heroes. While she focuses on traditional romance tropes like arranged marriages, governess-employer tension, and second chances, she infuses each book with genuine humor and emotional depth. Most of her books are published in trilogies or small series centered around a specific family group, friendship circle, or shared curse, making them perfect for binge-reading.

Cathy Maxwell's Romance Series in Order

The Cameron Sisters

This series follows the romantic fortunes of the Cameron family, moving between the glamorous ballrooms of London and the dramatic landscape of Scotland. It is widely considered one of her most beloved series.

1. Temptation of a Proper Governess (2004)
2. The Price of Indiscretion (2005)
3. In the Bed of a Duke (2006)
4. Bedding the Heiress (2007)
5. In the Highlander's Bed (2008)

Marrying the Duke

A fun and sparkling Regency series focusing on high-stakes courtships, scandalous bets, and matches that defy expectations. It is best to start with the prequel novella.

1. A Little Thing Called Love (2015 - Prequel Novella)
2. The Match of the Century (2015)
3. The Fairest of Them All (2016)
4. A Date at the Altar (2016)

The Spinster Heiresses

This trilogy centers on bold, independent women who find themselves with unexpected fortunes and the freedom to choose their own destinies—even if it means scandalous matches.

1. If Ever I Should Love You (2017)
2. A Match Made in Bed (2018)
3. The Duke That I Marry (2018)

A Logical Man's Guide to Dangerous Women

This series follows logical, structured gentlemen who find their neat, orderly lives completely disrupted by passionate, independent, and occasionally "dangerous" women.

1. His Secret Mistress (2020)
2. Her First Desire (2021)
3. His Lessons on Love (2022)

The Gambler's Daughters

Follow the lives and loves of three aristocratic sisters who must navigate the scandals of Regency London after being left in precarious financial circumstances by their father's gambling habits.

1. A Kiss in the Moonlight (2023)
2. One Dangerous Night (2024)

The Brides of Wishmore

A delightful trilogy set in the village of Wishmore, tracking the reluctant paths to the altar for three strong-willed leads.

1. The Bride Says No (2014)
2. The Bride Says Maybe (2014)
3. The Groom Says Yes (2014)

The Chattan Curse Series

Blending historical romance with a touch of gothic mystery and family lore, this series centers on the cursed Chattan family, where love is rumored to bring ruin. Note that while some databases list The Scottish Witch first, the author's official order begins with Lyon's Bride.

1. Lyon's Bride (2012)
2. The Scottish Witch (2012)
3. The Devil's Heart (2013)

Scandals and Seductions

A five-book collection packed with secret identities, winter romances, and the signature high-society drama Cathy Maxwell is famous for.

1. A Seduction at Christmas (2008)
2. The Earl Claims His Wife (2009)
3. The Marriage Ring (2010)
4. His Christmas Pleasure (2010)
5. The Seduction of Scandal (2011)

The Marriage Series

One of Maxwell's earlier trilogies, focusing on the complexities of marital arrangements, family obligations, and unexpected love in the Regency era.

1. Married in Haste (1999)
2. A Scandalous Marriage (2000)
3. The Marriage Contract (2001)

Standalone Novels

In addition to her multi-book family sagas, Cathy Maxwell has written several standalone romances. These are perfect for quick, satisfying reads that do not require any prior knowledge of her recurring characters.

• All Things Beautiful (1994 - Debut Novel)
• Treasured Vows (1996)
• You And No Other (1996)
• Falling in Love Again (1997)
• When Dreams Come True (1998)
• Because of You (1999)
• Flanna and the Lawman (2001)
• The Wedding Wager (2001)
• The Lady Is Tempted (2002)
• Adventures of a Scottish Heiress (2003)
• The Seduction of an English Lady (2003)