Who Else Writes Like…Lady Whistledown?

Any avid library user knows the pain too well. A book you love has been thrust into the cultural zeitgeist and becomes impossible to borrow from your local library. You’re keen to check out what other books the author has on offer? They’re all checked out, for at least a month. You want to relive the story the way it was originally? The eAudiobook isn't available until December... of next year.

This most recently happened for me with the release of the latest season of Bridgerton, based on the novel series by Julia Quinn. All I wanted was to throw myself back into the 'ton of Mayfair and read more regency romance, but every single Julia Quinn book was out. Not a spin-off series, digital resource, or even an unauthorized fan magazine to tide me over in the meantime.

"Who Else Writes Like...?" is a service offered by Dunedin Public Libraries that helps users find novelists similar to their favourites. It answers the question, "I've read all the books by this author, who else writes like that?" with a user-friendly interface for recommendations based on popular authors and library advisors' suggestions. Many entries include links to authors' websites, prize-winning titles, and suitable titles for young adult readers transitioning to adult novels.

If you’ve somehow managed to finish all 38 books published by Julia Quinn, or if you’re in need of a break from the Bridgerton’s, I've put together some suggestions from "Who Else Writes Like...?" to tide you over until your holds come in, or the next instalment of the show is released.

Sophie Irwin (2022-present)

A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting and A Lady's Guide to Scandal offer a more modern feeling to otherwise old stories, much like the Bridgerton series. With wit and humour woven through stories of societal rules, pomp, and ceremony, it's a bit like reading Jane Austen fan-fiction, but in the best way.

Eloisa James (1999-present)

Eloisa James' has collaborated with Julia Quinn and Connie Brockway on a duet of novels known as the Ladies Most Duet, but for those wanting more quiet, shy debutantes, the Would-Be Wallflowers series is a great place to start.

Marion Chesney/M.C. Beaton (1980-2006)

Known by - and published under - many names, Marion Chesney has produced many Regency-era novel series such as Travelling Matchmaker, School For Manners, and Poor Relations. 

Whether you're in the mood for high-society intrigues, witty banter, or swoon-worthy romances, "Who Else Writes Like…" can help you find the perfect substitute until your desired read becomes available.