Romance Readers Guide to Historic London

by Sonja Rouillard

At last! A London guide written just for historical romance fans. Or for travelers that want to experience old London.

Have you ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of your favorite romance heroine? See grand historic settings from best-loved novels? Or just learn the fascinating backstories of these intriguing places from Almack's to White's to Bedlam and more from the comfort of your own home.

Now you can! Author Sonja Rouillard has combined her love of travel and romance fiction to create an entertaining book that's perfect for a cozy fireside read at home or for planning that grand London excursion.

For the Armchair Traveler . . .
* everything you want to know about the places from your treasured historical romance novels
* discover which buildings still exist and what they are now
* read love stories from real-life heroes and heroines that frequented these old places
* with Then & Now pictures of what the buildings looked like in the past compared to now
* and featuring romance excerpts from Jane Austen to Georgette Heyer to today s best-selling authors.

For the London Adventurer . . .
* everything you need to explore the old London that still exists hiding within the modern city
* sleep like a princess in a 900-year-old castle or on an antique four-poster bed in the heart of London
* enjoy a delicious authentic Afternoon Tea
* with prices ranging from Governess on Holiday to King s Ransom, there's something for everyone
* featuring easy to read maps of Mayfair and St. James's neighborhoods
* and ~ for the guys activities that will especially interest your man too!
* plus insider tips to get the most from your travel budget.

So, take a walk in the footsteps of your favorite heroine whether on a grand, once-in-a-lifetime adventure to London or from the comfort of your own home with a warm cup of tea at your side.

Genres: Travel, Nonfiction, Historical Romance, Reference, Research, London, British Literature

332 pages, Paperback

Published April 16, 2017

About the author

Sonja Rouillard is a successful writer of fiction and non-fiction. Recently, she launched an erotic romance career under the name Kate Allure with two books from Sourcebooks (Playing Doctor and Lawyer Up), receiving high praise: “The sensuality and sexuality are palpable...4 Stars!” & “Escapism of the richest, most decadent variety.” —RT Book Reviews. “Intense chemistry, great characterization, and a kinky page-singeing ending will have readers clamoring for more.” —Publishers Weekly.

Besides being a huge fan of historical romance, Sonja’s other great love is travel and seeking unusual, off-the-beaten-path experiences. China, Monte Carlo, Bora Bora, Mexico, and Poland are among the many foreign countries she’s visited. Her extensive U.S. travel covers the gamut from exotic Hawaii, to historic Washington, D.C., and the indigenous cultures of six remote Native American reservations. Sonja lives in California with her husband of 27 years, 3 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, and a Flemish Giant rabbit.

Reviews

[SmartBitches · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books

I read travel guides like any other book. In a world where people seeeeeeeeeeem to think Oh, no, who uses Lonely Planet anymore when you’ve got the internet in your pocket, let me tell you, internet. Browsing through a travel guide is worth your time. You’ll find at least one thing that you may not have found on Expedia’s Top Ten Things to do in London that is clearly a perfect trap set personally for you.

Hotels and places to eat are sorted by price range (from “Governess on holiday” to “King’s ransom”) and then ranked by how authentic a feel the historic establishment has. How old is, is it a Grade Listed building? How preserved is it? Does it have period decor? Does it give you that feeling of being in “Merry Olde England?”

The Guide also goes through an exhaustive list of hotels that are old and of interest to the historical romance reader. Rouillard lays out in stern detail how, should you stay in a hotel that was built back in The Day, you could expect small, weird shaped rooms and perhaps no elevator (but in the interest of accessibility, she does tell you where there are no lifts), and that Americans will sometimes be… distraught… over the idea of a small hotel room. But if you want to fork out for a room at Brown’s Hotel, where many of the political movers and shakers of the last two centuries have stayed, what you need to know is all there.

Even if a trip to London isn’t in the cards in the near future, this book is fun to read. If you’ve ever wondered what all of the places that keep appearing in historicals are like today, this is for you. I wish I could afford a room in some of these hotels, but I will content myself with knowing they exist.

- Redheadedgirl

[A Voracious Reader (a.k.a. Carol) · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Book source ~ Kindle Lending Library

A travel guide written with readers of historical romance in mind. If you’re curious about the typical landmarks mentioned in your favorite historical romance novels and how they pertain to the modern world then look no further.

This is pretty awesome guide for those who are curious whether certain historical landmarks are still around today. There’s trivia, history, travel info, and more in this fairly well detailed guide. I read this on my Paperwhite and I’m afraid the formatting lacks in ebook form. I recommend, if you’re going to grab this puppy up, then get the paperback offered.

[Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wonderful idea! The perfect travel companion for a real or imaginary trip to London. I love how places are connected to historical events and historical romance books and, most of all, how everything is wrapped in humor. The cherry of the cake is our beloved Emma and Mr. Knightley having a hilarious conversation about her short `visit to future London` and what she has found out while there. I just wish there were more pictures and that they were in color. It`s a 4,5 stars rounded up to 5.

[Candace N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a travel guide and I loved it. I never thought I would say that! Romance Readers Guide To Historic London is filled with historical facts and is an excellent reference guide for the armchair travellers and those who want experience it first hand. There is alot of great insider tips in this book!  I was absolutely blown away by how much information was crammed onto just over 300 pages. For someone like me who loves history, it was very easy for me to read and I even laughed a few times.

***** I highly recommend this guide for anyone with an avid interest in England's history. It is easy to follow and incredibly interesting. I'm dying to go on a trip now! Brilliant book! *****

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: The author of this review received a free ARC of this book and no requirement to review or endorse. I grew up living in Europe with a Military service Father and a British Mother. Every summer we would travel to England to visit relatives and holiday. Even as a child I felt as if I really belong along the cobblestone streets, old world atmosphere, and as I got older definitely a break in the middle of the day for a pint of lager. lol Recently, I traveled again from the US to Ireland, Wales, and England, I have to say if I had owned Sonja Rouillard's Guide, I would have had a MUCH more gratifying visit. Having been so many times, I thought I had seen everything. There are so many things the guide brought to my attention that I have yet to see, even with at least 30 trips stamped on my passport. The book also offers a wealth of information on the History and stories from the past, much new knowledge to me, that I had only glimpsed in the past. Not only does she point out places I have not seen, she has my love for all things romantic at the forefront. I have been a romance reader since the age of 12, perhaps that's why I'm so drawn to Europe and its romantic allure. If you are planning a trip to England, LONDON in particular, you should definitely purchase this book and keep it with you every day you are there. You won't want to miss any of the sites Ms.Rouillard has pointed out, especially if you are partial to a romantic get a way, a writer, student, or just vacationing. Also, a perfect gift for anyone you know traveling to London, honeymooning, or just needing research for school, or a book. A MUST HAVE.

[Renée Dahlia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only thing that lets down this fabulous and interesting guide to regency London is the 'for the guys' sections. I want to do look at war museums, and trains, without having my views on the world split into pre-formed gender ideals.

Other than that, I will be taking this to England with me when I visit. It's handy and outlines all those places that are so familiar to readers - even the ones that aren't there any more (Almacs).

[Louisa Cornell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sonja Rouillard’s charming and informative book is the perfect travel companion. From the brilliant short story featuring Jane Austen’s Emma on a visit to modern London to the Appendices of historical romance novels quoted throughout the guide and suggestions as to romance novels to read whilst on the trip, the book is well-researched, whimsical, extremely informative, and replete with useful ideas, descriptions, and tips to plan and execute a memorable romance reader’s trip to London and several outlying areas featured heavily in historical romance novels.

Whilst the introductory short story is entertaining and endearing, it also gives the traveler a prospective on travel across the ages. With that, the next chapter provides a brilliant set of criteria for the author’s grading of each of the suggested sites to visit. There is some wonderful information about history in general and as it pertains to the reader of historical romance. And there is also some practical travel advice for the romance traveler.

The author has done a fantastic job of picking sites appealing to almost any reader of historical romance set in a variety of eras. And the entries for each site are well-researched and delightfully written. She also grades the sites as to their authenticity to the historical eras in which they most often appear in romance novels. And, of course, she lets the reader know if a site mentioned in a historical era has since disappeared. I found myself reading the entries strictly for the information and entertainment in them. The Then and Now aspects of each site allow the traveler to decide which sites are most appealing to them.

Period maps and a quick list of museums, along with the fees one might be expected to pay is most helpful. And the chapter on staying in period authentic places and dining with historical style, on a winsome scale from “touring like a governess” to “touring with royalty” is amusing and timely. There is a chapter on period activities in which one can participate today that is a stroke of genius.

With numerous photographs, maps, suggested excursions from London to other places mentioned frequently in historical romances, and entertaining and intriguing entries on every page, the Romance Readers Guide to Historic London is the perfect traveling companion for the historical romance reader making a pilgrimage to the land where historical romance was born. With its other worthy qualities, it is also an excellent read. One I intend to add to my research library.

[Lloyd Russell]

I've got a book to recommend that I guarantee you've never seen the likes of before. It's the Romance Readers Guide to London. Sonja Rouillard has put together one of the coolest books I have ever seen. Let me quote Chapter 3 in the Table of Contents: "Then and Now - Famous historical sites from romance novels and what they are now." Isn't that just the neatest thing? Chapter 1 starts with Emma, from Jane Austen, speaking to her husband, Mr. Knightly, in London in 1816. Emma has just come back from the year 2017 and is trying to explain what she saw. Her husband, quite understandably, is skeptical, to say the least. This is so cleverly done that it sets the tone for the rest of the book. Are you curious? Of course you are.

So besides these historical romance sites, what else does the book have? I will give you the titles of the other chapters, with their explanations:

Chapter 2 - How to Time Travel - Instructions for taking a walk in the footsteps of your favorite heroine
Chapter 4 - Ye Olde Maps
Chapter 5 - Dining - like an English lady or a bloke in a pub
Chapter 6 - Sleeping - like a princess or a governess on holiday
Chapter 7 - Walk, Float, or Dance - into the romantic past
Chapter 8 - Shopping - in Merry Old England
Chapter 9 - The Country Life - easy day trips and overnights to charming villages and nearby palaces and castles
Chapter 10 - Before You Go - What would Emma advise?

Even the Appendices are interesting. I kid you not:

I Novels quoted in the Guide
II Suggested novels to accompany your journey
III Link to end notes
Image credits & additional acknowledgements
Alphabetical index

And on top of all the great information, there are tons of old-timey black and white photos that are really rad. Most importantly, you don't have to be a romance reader or even a reader at all to enjoy this book. I will tell you that an enormous amount of time and research went into the making of Romance Readers Guide to London. (19th century) Hats off to Sonja for coming up with a concept that provides information that is just so darn unique. Nice job!

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book to get some of the historical perspective of famous romantic settings for Edwardian and Victorian novels. Plus, I was hoping to see if I could find research to help my own romance writing. Boy, it did not disappointment.

This book is a treasure trove of etiquette, places to visit, and all you need to know to plan a London/English trip with a romantic theme. There is a traditional travel guide feature of places from A-Z to explore with all the background and history to wet any romance reader’s appetite. But it also has sections that get into the history of traditional Victorian aspects that can be found in any novel such as afternoon tea, staying at fabulous hotels, shopping, boating, ceremonies to witness, and horse back riding. Lots of information is included with a romantic historical perspective on the places to eat, sleep and dine. I even enjoyed the extra information on which places had ghost stories associated with them. Historical etchings, pictures and photos are used to give you an idea how people in the past enjoyed everything listed. It was easy to picture yourself or any heroine immersed at the inns, restaurants, or palaces listed.

This guidebook will give you a unique perspective to explore London and plan your trip. It can easily be used while there to give information to helpfully schedule your explorations of London. I found this to be a very unique guidebook, giving me an insight into looking at London and England in a new way. I can’t wait to use it on my next visit to London. Since I’m married to an Englishman, it can be as soon as Christmas this year. I’m already looking forward to planning my trip.

I think I'd like an additional section which talked about regions around England with a romantic point of view. That would be a great guide for starting explorations of the UK. Maybe book 2? As is, it's a great way to take in London.

**Note: I received a free ARC copy of this book for an honest and unbiased review.

[Rebecca Metzger · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing I did when I received my paperback copy of The Romance Readers Guide to Historic London by Sonja Rouillard was to go to the page describing St. George’s Hanover Square. My parents were married in that church in August 1946 before returning to the US after the War. It was interesting reading more of the background of the church which is also featured in many weddings in Regency era (especially) books.
I am an information/trivia junkie and whenever I read a book I love to Google-map the area to see where the author has placed the activity in the book. Here is a resource for me to get even more cool information about the book I am reading. It includes maps, photos and modern day tips for getting around yesterday and today’s London. I found descriptions and explanations of things, places, and activities that I found in the romance books I have been reading since buying the book. The description of Bedlam was particularly interesting! I had the pleasure of meeting the author in Spokane WA recently at the Historical Romace Retreat 2017. She is a charming woman full of information and enthusiasm about historic (and modern) London and the British Isles.
Unfortunately these days I am an armchair traveler but if I ever have the opportunity to return to London and environs this is a fabulous resource for touring the actual places. The e-book also contains links to discussed sites for further information. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.

[Bethany Swafford · Rating 5 out of 5]

My years of romance reading has left me with a desire to explore the places mentioned in my favorite novels. Alas, I have not had the chance to do so. This book is the next best thing to going in person.

This guide is divided into helpful sections: Dining, Sleeping, one about Dancing, Shopping, The Country Life. My favorite has to be the Then and Now section, where the author lays out famous historical sites and what they are now. There are maps and small pictures to add variety to the information.

Whether you want specific information about a certain place, or want a guide to historic London for a trip, or just want to enjoy an informative book, I would very much recommend this to any reader or historic fiction.

[Rei A · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd been wanting to take a look at this for a few years because there are places in Regency England that show up a lot in Regency fiction: Almack's, White's, the whole of Mayfair and I wanted to know more about them. This book is a travel guide with good doses of history inside, especially for Regency and Victorian historical romance readers because many of the places mentioned existed or were built during that time. Of course, the listings of places to go in London and hotels and such (prices included) are probably out of date now (especially in the age of COVID-19), but it was also nice to read about a different place and have a handy reference for sightseeing in London, in hopes that one day this dreadful lockdown-quarantine-plague will end.

[Sherri Dub · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a tiny blip that discourages my 5th Star in the final rating of this romantic book; Sadly, the photos are in black & white.
Period.
Otherwise, this book is a treasure trove of information, whether you read ‘Romance’ novels or not.
I enjoyed the rating system, the little histories that were embedded in the description of each place & the photos.
I will be taking this book with me when I visit London next year, for my first time!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating guide to London of the past with maps, museums, historic buildings and descriptions, admission hours and fees. For those of us that read historical books, this is a most helpful book. The fact that it also contains hotels historic accommodations, theaters, shopping and dining. There is so much information that I have gone back to it again and again.

[Tabetha Waite · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an AMAZING reference guide, probably the best I’ve ever read. If you are thinking of visiting London and want to know some of the history and some great traveling tips, then look no further!

[Judy W · Rating 4 out of 5]

My sister and I used this on a recent trip together to London and Bath. We spent all day with the maps shown inside the book we had printed off. It was really wonderful to steep yourself in the history and made an excelllent reference to follow.

[Diana Bustamante · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I am not a reader of romance novels, London is my favorite city in the world. I need to go back soon! Last time I was there was 2009. I have visited 9 times!
Because I love London, I thoroughly enjoyed this!

[Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book at a historical romance retreat and now there are so many places in England that I hope to visit my lifetime.

[Kellye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming and informative

I was reintroduced to some places I have already visited, and discovered others that I would like to visit in the future.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and thorough.

[Sharon Pauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of this review received a free ARC of this book with no requirement to review or endorse.
I love this book from the dedication by Sabrina Jeffries to the very end. It is easy to read, fascinating to Historical Romance Readers. I couldn't hardly put it down. It is a fun read but also was well reearched so imparts important knowledge to historical writers and readers both. I can't wait to follow in the author's footsteps and check out "Historical" London. Well done. A must have for any library of a historical romance fan.

[Jenny Q]

Read an excerpt and enter to win an autographed print copy (US) or a kindle copy (INT) at Romantic Historical Reviews, 6/17-6/23!