1. Research Extensively and Accurately
Historical romance readers expect authenticity, so it’s essential to build a foundation based on real historical research. Familiarize yourself with the chosen time period’s customs, language, dress, and societal structure. Dive into books, documentaries, and historical articles to gain accurate knowledge. The details you uncover—whether it’s how people dressed, the type of food they ate, or even the type of ink used in letters—can create an immersive experience for readers.
Pro Tip: Be cautious of “info-dumping,” where too much detail can bog down the narrative. Instead, weave these historical facts naturally into the story to keep readers engaged.

2. Develop Compelling, Era-Appropriate Characters
Characters in historical romance novels should reflect the values, challenges, and social norms of their time, but they also need depth, agency, and growth. Craft protagonists who are relatable, but also true to their historical period. If you're writing about a strong-willed woman in Regency England, for instance, consider the limitations placed on her by society while allowing her to still display courage and intelligence.
Pro Tip:
Give your characters a strong backstory influenced by the events and attitudes of the era. These historical elements can fuel motivations and desires, making the romance feel organic to the time period.

3. Craft a Rich Setting to Transport Readers
The setting in a historical romance novel is as important as the characters and the plot. An authentically depicted setting will ground readers in the era and make the romance even more enticing. To achieve this, immerse readers in sensory details—what does the street smell like? How does a room look when lit by candlelight instead of electricity? What are the sounds of a ballroom, a market, or a battlefield?
Pro Tip:
Use setting not just as a backdrop but as a tool to advance the romance. A secluded garden, for example, can provide an ideal secret meeting place, or a crowded ballroom can heighten tension as the characters navigate social expectations.

4. Balance Romance and Historical Elements
The beauty of historical romance lies in the balance of love and history. Too much romance without historical depth may feel out of place, and too much historical detail can overshadow the love story. Aim for a harmony where each complements the other. The historical setting should create obstacles or circumstances unique to that time, which the characters must navigate in their pursuit of love.
Pro Tip:
Use the historical setting to create external conflict or social barriers that challenge the relationship. The struggles the characters face will feel more significant, leading to a satisfying, well-earned romance.

5. Be Cautious with Language and Dialogue
To keep authenticity, use language that reflects the era—but be mindful of readability. Archaic language can lend a novel a historical feel, but overdoing it can alienate modern readers. Strike a balance by using period-appropriate expressions while keeping the dialogue relatable. Avoid slang or phrases that are too modern, and be careful not to overwhelm readers with excessive historical jargon.
Pro Tip:
Sprinkle in a few era-appropriate terms or idioms, but let clarity guide your choices. You want readers to feel the time period without needing a dictionary to understand the dialogue.

6. Build Romantic Tension Carefully
In historical romance, romantic tension can be heightened by societal norms, expectations, and restrictions that don’t exist in contemporary romances. Utilize this to your advantage by allowing the slow build of attraction, longing, and forbidden moments. The tension that arises from restrictions on physical touch, class differences, or family expectations can make the ultimate payoff incredibly satisfying for readers.
Pro Tip:
Leverage subtle touches, glances, and restrained emotions to convey romantic tension. The slow-burn approach often works wonderfully in historical romance, where the stakes are high, and a simple touch can be loaded with significance.

7. Handle Historical Themes with Care
Historical romance often involves sensitive issues such as class distinctions, arranged marriages, or even colonialism. Approach these topics with respect and awareness. Readers are savvy and expect nuanced portrayals of complex issues. When writing, strive to represent diverse perspectives of the era without glorifying outdated or harmful ideals.
Pro Tip: Incorporate historical themes thoughtfully, and consider how they impact the characters’ lives and relationships. If characters challenge societal norms, let it feel authentic to the time period.

8. Add Intrigue and Mystery
Many historical romance novels are spiced up with a subplot of intrigue, mystery, or adventure. Whether it’s a family secret, a hidden inheritance, or a villainous suitor, these elements add suspense and can enhance the romance. Such subplots should be interwoven naturally, complementing the love story without overshadowing it.
Pro Tip:
Consider a subplot that heightens the stakes for the romance, whether it’s a mystery that brings the characters together or a secret that could tear them apart. This can add layers to the story and make the romance feel all the more thrilling.

9. Edit for Historical Consistency and Continuity
Editing a historical romance novel requires attention to both story elements and historical consistency. Ensure that all historical details remain accurate throughout the novel and that characters don’t slip into modern behaviors or speech. Fact-check historical events, places, and customs, especially if they play a significant role in your story.
Pro Tip:
Engage beta readers who are familiar with the historical era, or even a professional editor who specializes in historical fiction, to catch any inconsistencies that may have slipped through.

10. Embrace the Emotional Payoff
Readers come to historical romance for the emotional journey and the reward of a satisfying ending. After facing historical and social barriers, your characters’ union will feel all the more rewarding. Deliver a conclusion that feels earned, whether it’s a grand declaration of love or a quiet, intimate promise.
Pro Tip:
Don’t rush the ending; let it unfold naturally. Provide readers with a sense of fulfillment that makes the journey through history—and romance—worth every page.

Writing historical romance novels is both an art and a challenge, requiring an understanding of history and a mastery of romantic storytelling. By following these tips, you’ll craft a love story that feels authentic to its time, yet timeless in its appeal. So dive into your chosen era, let your imagination soar, and create a romance that resonates through the ages.