This Week in Historical Romance — Week of June 22, 2026

Most Read Historical Romance Books This Week

The Very Definition of Love by Sophia Benoit

Published: June 23, 2026

A plucky yet innocent wallflower writing a dictionary of bawdy slang arranges her own marriage to the ultimate the town rake. As sexy as it is witty and as charming as it is irreverent, The Very Definition of Love is Emily Henry for the regency era.

In 1816, Harriet Barrington finds herself in a compromising situation with Lord Alexander, leading her to kidnap him into a marriage of convenience. As their relationship evolves, they must navigate their feelings and the very real possibility of love.

Stats: 582 → 633 (+51) — This new release debuted strongly, showing solid early traction with an 8.8% growth rate in just its first week, making it the #1 most read book this week.

Scandal of the Summer by Alexandra Vasti

Published: June 23, 2026

A desperate debutante meets a ragtag smuggler in this sexy Regency romp by USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Vasti.

Lady Ruby Ballimore escapes to a distant estate only to encounter Captain Malcolm Archer, a con artist amidst a smuggling scheme. Their chemistry ignites amidst a series of misunderstandings, complicating their lives in ways neither expected.

Stats: 958 → 1,008 (+50) — Holding steady at #2, this title also debuted this week with a 5.2% uptick, indicating strong continued interest in this engaging Regency romp.

A Shop Girl's Guide to Wooing a Lord by Shana Galen

Published: June 9, 2026

A down-on-her-luck shop girl and the son of an earl find they have more in common than they’d think—including sexual chemistry they can’t resist—in this fresh Regency romance by Shana Galen.

As Tamsin Archer struggles to find her siblings in a desperate bid, she encounters Garrett Kildaire, an earl’s son, and their undeniable attraction complicates their precarious situation.

Stats: 144 → 153 (+9) — A newcomer to the chart, this title has experienced a minor growth trajectory of 6.2%, adding to its ratings at a steady pace, indicating a gradually growing audience.

Rising in Historical Romance

The Very Definition of Love by Sophia Benoit

Stats: 582 → 633 (8.8%, +51) — The standout debut of the week, propelling it to the top position, highlights its potential for sustained interest in the weeks to come.

Scandal of the Summer by Alexandra Vasti

Stats: 958 → 1,008 (5.2%, +50) — Still maintaining a prime spot, this book's solid weekly increase signifies it remains a popular choice among readers this week.

A Shop Girl's Guide to Wooing a Lord by Shana Galen

Stats: 144 → 153 (6.2%, +9) — With consistent, albeit modest growth, this title hints at a gradual build-up of interest among readers.