Picture a British storyteller who trades dragon-filled epics for the delicate dance of Regency romance—meet Mary Kingswood! Writing under her pen name, Pauline M Ross crafts novels that whisk readers to the elegant drawing rooms of 19th-century England, where love blossoms amid strict social codes and intricate historical details.
Kingswood’s Regency romances, inspired by Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, are celebrated for their historical accuracy and heartfelt narratives. With a knack for creating relatable characters and authentic period settings, she’s become a beloved voice in the genre, captivating readers worldwide with her charming tales.
The Making of Mary Kingswood
Born in England, Pauline M Ross grew up with a love for storytelling, influenced by her mother’s passion for Jane Austen’s novels. Before becoming Mary Kingswood, she wrote epic fantasy under her real name, weaving tales of adventure and romance. Her shift to Regency romance in 2016 marked a new chapter, driven by a desire to explore the nuanced world of historical love stories. Living in the scenic Highlands of Scotland, she draws inspiration from her surroundings, channeling her imagination into meticulously researched narratives.
Mary Kingswood’s Unforgettable Stories
Kingswood’s novels are a delightful blend of romance, mystery, and historical authenticity. Her debut series, The Daughters of Allamont Hall, follows six sisters navigating love and societal expectations after their father’s death. The first book, Amy (2016), introduces a shy heroine seeking a husband to secure her sisters’ futures, setting the tone for the series’ emotional depth.
The Silver Linings Mysteries series, starting with The Widow, weaves suspense into romance, exploring the aftermath of a shipwreck that changes lives. Stranger at the Dower House, from the Strangers series, captivates with its tale of a mysterious widow disrupting a quiet village. Kingswood’s style—described as ‘drawing room rather than bedroom’—focuses on emotional connections and period etiquette, earning praise for avoiding explicit content while delivering compelling love stories.
Her latest work, the Chaplain’s Legacy series, continues to showcase her ability to craft unique premises, with titles like Secrecy (2025) blending romance and intrigue. Each book is a standalone story with a happy ending, making her series accessible and binge-worthy.
Why Mary Kingswood Matters
Mary Kingswood has carved a niche in Regency romance by prioritizing historical accuracy and character-driven storytelling. Her novels resonate with readers who crave authentic depictions of the era, from correct forms of address to the subtleties of social hierarchy. By avoiding overused tropes, she offers fresh narratives that stand out in a crowded genre. Her global fanbase, evident in glowing reviews and active mailing lists, reflects her ability to connect with readers seeking clean, meaningful romances.
Kingswood’s transition from fantasy to romance highlights her versatility, inspiring aspiring authors to explore new genres. Her work, available in audiobooks and print, ensures accessibility, cementing her legacy as a storyteller who brings history to life.
- Born: England
- Key Works: The Widow, Stranger at the Dower House, Amy
- Pen Name For: Pauline M Ross
- Notable: Finalist in Amazon’s KDP Storyteller UK competition (2021) for Stranger at the Villa
Ready to waltz into the Regency era? Snag The Widow or Amy and dive into Mary Kingswood’s enchanting world of romance and intrigue!