Recs if you like Shades of Milk and Honey...

i can’t stop noticing bowl of mac & cheese titles. everywhere

whether it's straight-up Jane Austen retellings, set in an alternative regency-era England, or a whole new world that has those prim and proper vibes, these books all introduce magic, spells, and perhaps even a bit of whimsy into the familiar regency setting (may also contain Victorian or Gregorian-era like fantasy novels, since they can have a lot of overlap in vibes!)

A collection of books that are or feel like historical romance and from a time long past, with elements of magic, whimsy and fantasy!

(open to suggestions!)

Fantasy which exists within the confines of an elaborate hierarchical society, often with lots of rules attached. Lots of crossover with historical fiction and historical fantasy; might be good for fans of Austen, Wilde, &c!

These series openers feature ensemble casts and secondary plot arcs that stretch over multiple books. Multiple genres and eras of fiction are represented, and most series are complete while others are ongoing.

After following the amazing antics of OfficialHellsBelles on Instagram, I have made a list of the books and authors mentioned.

Also read Jaysea Lynn’s For Whom the Belle Tolls! 💜

Updated note: several books are missing, but I requested them from the librarians. I also skipped all the Sarah J Maas books.

...and other historical fantasies! If in a series, first book included only.