What are some of the best vintage romance novels?

One of the best is 'The Flame and the Flower' by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. It was a pioneer in the historical romance genre that Harlequin often features. Another great one is 'A Rose in Winter' by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss as well. Her detailed historical settings and strong characters made her novels stand out in the vintage Harlequin world. Also, 'Sweet Savage Love' by Rosemary Rogers is highly regarded. It had a mix of adventure and passionate romance that was characteristic of the best vintage Harlequin novels.

'The Great Gatsby' is also among the best vintage novels. F. Scott Fitzgerald's work delves into the decadence and disillusionment of the Jazz Age. It has memorable characters like Jay Gatsby and his unrequited love for Daisy Buchanan, and it gives a vivid picture of the era's excesses.

Some well - known vintage romance novels include 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. Scarlett O'Hara's love for Ashley Wilkes and her relationship with Rhett Butler against the backdrop of the American Civil War is captivating. 'The Age of Innocence' by Edith Wharton is also great. It shows the love and the strict social rules in the upper - class New York society in the 19th century.

Some of the best vintage crime novels include 'Gaudy Night' by Dorothy L. Sayers. This novel combines the mystery element with academic life. Lord Peter Wimsey is the detective who tries to solve a series of disturbing events at a women's college. 'The Thin Man' by Dashiell Hammett is also a great pick. It's a bit different as it has a more light - hearted tone compared to some of his other works while still having a solid crime mystery at its core. 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins is an early example of a great crime - mystery novel. It has a complex plot with multiple narrators and a lot of twists and turns.

'The Flame and the Flower' by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss is a classic bodice ripper. It was one of the first novels in this genre and is famous for its steamy romance and vivid historical setting. The story follows the relationship between a young girl and a ship captain. It really set the stage for many other bodice ripper novels to follow with its combination of adventure, passion, and historical detail.

I would recommend 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott. While it's mainly about the growth of the four March sisters, there are elements of romance, especially with Jo's relationship journey. It's easy to read and understand. Also, 'Anne of Green Gables' has some lovely romantic undertones. Anne's relationship with Gilbert is sweet and the whole story has a charming, nostalgic feel that beginners would enjoy.

Well, 'The Castle of Otranto' is a very early and important vintage gothic romance novel. It sets the tone for many of the later works with its elements of the supernatural and the gloomy castle setting. Then there's 'Dracula' which, while often thought of as a horror novel, also has strong gothic romance elements, especially in the relationship between the characters and the allure of the vampire. 'Frankenstein' can also be considered in this genre to some extent, as it has a complex relationship between the creator and the created, set against a backdrop of mystery and the unknown.

These novels are known for their focus on romantic relationships. The plots usually revolve around love at first sight or a fated encounter. The female protagonists in vintage Harlequin Presents are often independent - minded despite the era they were written in. They might be career - driven or have strong personal beliefs. The male characters, on the other hand, are charming and often a bit mysterious. The stories also tend to have a happy ending, which is a staple of the romance genre.

Typically, they are set in a specific historical period. For example, many are set in the Victorian era or the Middle Ages. They often involve elements like arranged marriages, social hierarchies, and different cultural norms. The romances in these novels are influenced by the values and restrictions of the time.

They often have very engaging love stories. The characters are usually well - developed, with the hero and heroine having distinct personalities. The settings can range from small towns to far - off exotic places, adding to the allure.