Top ten reasons I love the Regency era, part the first

Like most romance authors, I started writing romance novels simply because I loved reading them. The Regency era in particular has a special place in my heart. Here are the first 5 of 10 reasons (in no particular order) why I love the era as both a writer and a reader.

The Clothing

I think the fashion is one reason why the Regency era trumps others as far as a popular setting for romance novels. Women weren't wearing metal frames under their gowns (not sexy), and neither were the men wearing powdered grey wigs (also not sexy). Instead, women donned pretty empire waist gowns and corsets that, though dangerous, also did phenomenal things to ones figure. The men dressed well and wore pants that fit (and no zippers, thus avoiding a There's Something About Mary moment). Plus, you gotta love a job that involves researching the burning question: what comes off first, the corset or the chemise?

Chaperones

Their task was to get their girl married, while also keeping them safe (safe, in this case, meaning not alone in the company of a gentleman). What woman doesn't need a champion, and someone older and wiser on hand? On the other hand, what woman doesn't need and want a moment alone with a handsome gentleman? To that end, for my novel The Heir And The Spare, I invented Lady Palmerston, a scheming yet negligent chaperone. She has a gift for judging a man's intentions, knowing a girl's heart, and best of all—knowing exactly when to leave the room.

The Social Whirl

Between attending balls, dinner parties, nights at the theater, calling hours, and house parties, Regency characters (and their real historical counterparts), have social lives that put mine to shame. Best of all, in fabulous fictional parties, we get to skip the small talk, and skip straight to the scandal.

Carriages

By most accounts they could be quite uncomfortable. But the opportunities a carriage provides for romance are numerous. Perhaps it's being secluded with the object of ones affections in a small, private place (especially if someone else is driving). Perhaps it's merely the touch of hands as the gentleman helps the lady alight from the carriage. Or perhaps it's something else entirely (something naughty!), as I was just reminded by an English gentleman who had read The Heir And The Spare the other evening. A Tale of Two Lovers also has some moments in enclosed and secluded carriages…

Compromising Positions

The consequences of being caught in a compromising position were serious indeed—marriage. Any kiss occurring in a place where one might get caught makes it all the more thrilling.

The next five favorites are coming soon…do check back here on Wednesday for the rest.