Picture a British storyteller who sweeps you into the elegant ballrooms and windswept moors of 19th-century England—meet Janice Preston! With her sensual Regency romances, Preston has enchanted readers worldwide, crafting tales of love, redemption, and heart-pounding passion. Published by Harlequin Mills and Boon, her novels transport you to a world where dashing heroes and spirited heroines find their happily-ever-after against all odds.
From her childhood dreams of storytelling to her celebrated career, Preston’s journey is as captivating as her books. Her vivid prose and interconnected characters have made her a beloved name in historical romance, inviting readers to lose themselves in a bygone era of charm and intrigue.
The Making of Janice Preston
Born in Wembley, North London, Janice Preston grew up with a passion for reading and writing stories, often about animals like horses and lions. Her love for the Regency period was sparked by literary giants Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, whose tales of witty heroines and brooding heroes fueled her imagination. After moving to Devon at 18, Preston’s writing ambitions took a backseat as she embraced life as a farmer’s wife and mother of two. Later, in the West Midlands with her second husband, she reignited her childhood dream, joining the Romantic Novelists’ Association in 2012. Her persistence paid off when Harlequin Mills and Boon accepted her first novel, Mary and the Marquis, in 2013, launching her into the world of Regency romance.
Janice Preston’s Unforgettable Stories
Preston’s novels are a delightful blend of sensual romance, emotional depth, and historical authenticity, set in the glittering Regency era. Her debut, Mary and the Marquis (2014), follows Mary, a strong-willed heroine who nurses the brooding Marquis Lucas back to health, weaving a tale of intimacy and intrigue. Critics praised its vivid setting and engaging characters, calling it a “worthy debut.”
From Wallflower to Countess (2015), shortlisted for the RoNA Rose Award, tells the story of shy Lady Felicity Weston, whose marriage of convenience to the dashing Earl of Stanton blossoms into unexpected love. Readers adored its gripping twists and romantic tension. In The Governess’s Secret Baby (2016), part of The Governess Tales series, Preston crafts a Beauty and the Beast-inspired romance between governess Grace Bertram and the scarred Nathaniel, Marquess of Ravenwell, earning a four-star RT Book Reviews rating. Her Lady Tregowan’s Will trilogy (2021), including The Penniless Debutante, explores the plight of women in Regency society, intertwining the lives of three half-sisters who inherit a fortune with romantic adventures.
Preston’s signature style features interconnected characters who hop between books, creating a rich, immersive world. Her heroines are often resilient and resourceful, challenging societal norms, while her heroes are complex, blending charm with hidden vulnerabilities. Her meticulous research brings the Regency era to life, from lavish gowns to the social constraints of the time.
Why Janice Preston Matters
Janice Preston has carved a niche in Regency romance by blending fairy-tale endings with authentic historical detail, appealing to readers who crave escapist yet grounded stories. Her focus on women’s struggles in a patriarchal society resonates with modern audiences, highlighting themes of independence and love. With over 85 books on Goodreads and a loyal following, Preston’s work continues to inspire aspiring writers and delight romance enthusiasts. Her involvement in the Unlaced Book Club, a community for historical romance fans, underscores her commitment to connecting with readers.
- Born: Wembley, North London
- First Novel: Mary and the Marquis (2014)
- Key Series: Lady Tregowan’s Will, The Governess Tales
- Award: Shortlisted for RoNA Rose Award (2015)
Ready to fall in love with Regency romance? Snag Mary and the Marquis or dive into the Lady Tregowan’s Will trilogy for a dose of Janice Preston’s swoon-worthy storytelling!