Historical romance comp titles for your query letter (updated 2026)

Choosing the right comp titles for your historical romance query letter can make or break your changes of being published.

Agents and publishing house editors use comp titles as a way to gauge not only the genre of your book, but also the tone and market potential of your manuscript.

I regularly update this list of historical romance comp titles to make sure you’re always working with relevant books.

No matter if you’re writing a sweet, slow-burn historical romance or something fast and spicy, you’ll find titles below to help you write a killer query letter!

If you’re looking for something a bit more specific, check out my romance comp database.

1. A Botanist's Guide to Parties and PoisonsAuthor: Kate KhavariYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, cozy mystery, historical, mystery, thriller
2. A Caribbean Heiress in ParisAuthor: Adriana HerreraYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, latinx, marriage of convenience
3. A Lady's Guide to Fortune-HuntingAuthor: Sophie IrwinYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, enemies to lovers, historical, regency
4. A Language of DragonsAuthor: S.F. WilliamsonYear published: 2025Genre and themes: dark academia, dragons, fantasy, historical, romantasy, young adult
5. A Language of LimbsAuthor: Dylin HardcastleYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, lesbian, literary fiction, queer
6. A Love Song for Ricki WildeAuthor: Tia WilliamsYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, fantasy, historical, magical realism
7. A Magic Steeped in PoisonAuthor: Judy I. LinYear published: 2022Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, magic, mythology, young adult
8. A Marvellous LightAuthor: Freya MarskeYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, magic, mystery, queer
9. A Mind of Her OwnAuthor: Danielle SteelYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, historical, war
10. A Ruse of ShadowsAuthor: Sherry ThomasYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, historical, mystery, thriller, victorian
11. A Scatter of LightAuthor: Malinda LoYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, coming of age, contemporary, historical, lesbian, queer, young adult
12. A Song to Drown RiversAuthor: Ann LiangYear published: 2024Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings, romantasy, young adult
13. A Storm of Infinite BeautyAuthor: Julianne MacLeanYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, contemporary, drama, historical, realistic fiction
14. A Sweet Sting of SaltAuthor: Rose SutherlandYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, retellings
15. A Tempest of TeaAuthor: Hafsah FaizalYear published: 2024Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, paranormal, vampires, young adult
16. A Thousand HeartbeatsAuthor: Kiera CassYear published: 2022Genre and themes: enemies to lovers, fantasy, historical, romantasy, royalty, young adult
17. Alchemy of SecretsAuthor: Stephanie GarberYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, dark academia, fantasy, historical, mystery, paranormal, romantasy
18. All My RageAuthor: Sabaa TahirYear published: 2022Genre and themes: book club, coming of age, contemporary, family, historical, realistic fiction, young adult
19. All the Colors of the DarkAuthor: Chris WhitakerYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, crime, historical, mystery, suspense, thriller
20. All the Glimmering StarsAuthor: Mark T. SullivanYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Africa, adult, book club, family, historical, war
21. An American BeautyAuthor: Shana AbeYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, drama, historical, realistic fiction, young adult
22. An Impossible ImpostorAuthor: Deanna RaybournYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, historical, mystery, thriller, victorian
23. An Italian Girl in BrooklynAuthor: Santa MontefioreYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Italy, Roman, adult, drama, historical, war
24. An Unexpected PerilAuthor: Deanna RaybournYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, historical, mystery, thriller
25. AnastasiaAuthor: Sophie LarkYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, enemies to lovers, fantasy, historical, retellings, romantasy
26. Anatomy: A Love StoryAuthor: Dana SchwartzYear published: 2022Genre and themes: fantasy, gothic, historical, horror, mystery, young adult
27. And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy OnassisAuthor: Stephanie Marie ThorntonYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, politics
28. Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her MatchAuthor: Sally ThorneYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, paranormal, retellings
29. Appalachian SongAuthor: Michelle ShockleeYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Christian, adult, book club, historical
30. AriadneAuthor: Jennifer SaintYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Greek mythology, adult, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings
31. Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the WorldAuthor: Benjamin Alire SáenzYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, coming of age, contemporary, gay, historical, queer, young adult
32. As Long as the Lemon Trees GrowAuthor: Zoulfa KatouhYear published: 2022Genre and themes: book club, contemporary, fantasy, historical, war, young adult
33. AtalantaAuthor: Jennifer SaintYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Greek mythology, adult, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings
34. Atlas: The Story of Pa SaltAuthor: Lucinda RileyYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Roman, adult, contemporary, drama, historical, mystery
35. AtmosphereAuthor: Taylor Jenkins ReidYear published: 2025Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, queer
36. Atomic LoveAuthor: Jennie FieldsYear published: 2020Genre and themes: World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery
37. Behind Every Good ManAuthor: Sara Goodman ConfinoYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, contemporary, historical, humor, politics
38. Black Woods Blue SkyAuthor: Eowyn IveyYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, historical, literary fiction, magical realism, retellings
39. Bloom Town: ExodusAuthor: Ally NorthYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, Westerns, adult, historical, lesbian, queer
40. Bloom Town: GenesisAuthor: Ally NorthYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, Westerns, adult, enemies to lovers, historical, lesbian, queer
41. Boy of Chaotic MakingAuthor: Charlie N. HolmbergYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, mystery
42. Broken CountryAuthor: Clare Leslie HallYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, literary fiction, mystery, thriller
43. By Any Other NameAuthor: Jodi PicoultYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, books about books, contemporary, feminism, historical
44. California GoldenAuthor: Melanie BenjaminYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, coming of age, historical, sports, summer
45. Chain of GoldAuthor: Cassandra ClareYear published: 2020Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, paranormal, urban fantasy, young adult
46. Chain of IronAuthor: Cassandra ClareYear published: 2021Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, paranormal, urban fantasy, young adult
47. Chain of ThornsAuthor: Cassandra ClareYear published: 2023Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, paranormal, urban fantasy, young adult
48. Chasing ShadowsAuthor: Lynn AustinYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Christian, World War II, adult, book club, historical
49. Circus of WondersAuthor: Elizabeth MacnealYear published: 2021Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, fantasy, historical, magical realism
50. City of Night BirdsAuthor: Juhea KimYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Russia, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
51. Clouds in My CoffeeAuthor: Julie MulhernYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, cozy, cozy mystery, historical, mystery, thriller
52. Code Name HélèneAuthor: Ariel LawhonYear published: 2020Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
53. Coronation YearAuthor: Jennifer RobsonYear published: 2023Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, historical, mystery, royalty
54. CrossingsAuthor: Alex LandraginYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, book club, books about books, fantasy, historical, magical realism, mystery, time travel
55. Dark HeirAuthor: C.S. PacatYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, fantasy, historical, m m romance, magic, queer, young adult
56. DeceptionAuthor: Lesley PearseYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, family, historical, mystery
57. Deep CutsAuthor: Holly BrickleyYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction, music
58. Divine RivalsAuthor: Rebecca RossYear published: 2023Genre and themes: enemies to lovers, fantasy, historical, romantasy, young adult
59. Don't Want You Like a Best FriendAuthor: Emma R. AlbanYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, historical, lesbian, queer
60. Don’t Forget to WriteAuthor: Sara Goodman ConfinoYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, historical, humor
61. Earth's the Right Place for LoveAuthor: Elizabeth BergYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, coming of age, family, historical, literary fiction, womens fiction
62. Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost TalesAuthor: Heather FawcettYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, cozy, cozy fantasy, fae, fantasy, historical, romantasy
63. Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of FaeriesAuthor: Heather FawcettYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, cozy, cozy fantasy, fae, fantasy, historical, romantasy
64. Emily Wilde’s Map of the OtherlandsAuthor: Heather FawcettYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, cozy, cozy fantasy, fae, fantasy, historical
65. Empire of ShadowsAuthor: Jacquelyn BensonYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, adventure, fantasy, historical, romantasy
66. FairydaleAuthor: Veronica LancetYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, dark, fantasy, gothic, historical, paranormal, romantasy
67. Far From HomeAuthor: Danielle SteelYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Holocaust, World War II, adult, historical, war
68. Foul Heart HuntsmanAuthor: Chloe GongYear published: 2023Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, mystery, retellings, romantasy, young adult
69. Foul Lady FortuneAuthor: Chloe GongYear published: 2022Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, mystery, retellings, young adult
70. Free LoveAuthor: Tessa HadleyYear published: 2022Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
71. Glamorous NotionsAuthor: Megan ChanceYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, fashion, historical, mystery, thriller
72. Go as a RiverAuthor: Shelley ReadYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, coming of age, historical, literary fiction
73. Go Tell the Bees That I Am GoneAuthor: Diana GabaldonYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, time travel
74. Godmersham ParkAuthor: Gill HornbyYear published: 2022Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, historical, regency
75. Good GriefAuthor: Sara Goodman ConfinoYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Jewish, adult, chick lit, family, grief, historical, womens fiction
76. Gwen & Art Are Not in LoveAuthor: Lex CroucherYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, young adult
77. Gwen & Art Are Not in LoveAuthor: Lex CroucherYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, young adult
78. Half a SoulAuthor: Olivia AtwaterYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, cozy fantasy, fae, fantasy, historical, romantasy
79. Hello BeautifulAuthor: Ann NapolitanoYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, family, historical, literary fiction
80. HesterAuthor: Laurie Lico AlbaneseYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, feminism, historical, literary fiction, retellings
81. His Grace, the DukeAuthor: Emily RathYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, historical, regency, why choose
82. HomeseekingAuthor: Karissa ChenYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Asia, China, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
83. HonorAuthor: Thrity UmrigarYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Asia, India, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
84. Husbands & LoversAuthor: Beatriz WilliamsYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, contemporary, family, historical, summer
85. Husbands & LoversAuthor: Beatriz WilliamsYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, contemporary, family, historical, summer
86. I Must Betray YouAuthor: Ruta SepetysYear published: 2022Genre and themes: book club, historical, war, young adult
87. Immortality: A Love StoryAuthor: Dana SchwartzYear published: 2023Genre and themes: fantasy, gothic, historical, horror, mystery, young adult
88. In MemoriamAuthor: Alice WinnYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, historical, literary fiction, queer, war
89. In the Country of OthersAuthor: Leïla SlimaniYear published: 2020Genre and themes: Africa, France, Roman, adult, historical
90. Iron WidowAuthor: Xiran Jay ZhaoYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, dystopia, fantasy, historical, queer, science fiction, young adult
91. IsolaAuthor: Allegra GoodmanYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Canada, France, adult, book club, historical, literary fiction
92. Jo & LaurieAuthor: Margaret StohlYear published: 2020Genre and themes: contemporary, historical, retellings, young adult
93. Jo & LaurieAuthor: Margaret StohlYear published: 2020Genre and themes: contemporary, historical, retellings, young adult
94. Just OnceAuthor: Karen KingsburyYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Christian, adult, chick lit, contemporary, drama, historical
95. KatabasisAuthor: R.F. KuangYear published: 2025Genre and themes: academia, adult, book club, dark academia, fantasy, historical, mythology
96. Katharine Parr: The Sixth WifeAuthor: Alison WeirYear published: 2021Genre and themes: British literature, adult, historical, royalty
97. Katheryn Howard: the Scandalous QueenAuthor: Alison WeirYear published: 2020Genre and themes: British literature, adult, historical, royalty
98. Last Night at the Telegraph ClubAuthor: Malinda LoYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, book club, historical, lesbian, queer, young adult
99. Last Twilight in ParisAuthor: Pam JenoffYear published: 2025Genre and themes: France, Holocaust, World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery
100. Lessons in ChemistryAuthor: Bonnie GarmusYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, feminism, historical
101. Little SoulsAuthor: Sandra DallasYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War I, adult, book club, historical, mystery, war
102. Long IslandAuthor: Colm TóibínYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Ireland, Irish literature, adult, book club, family, historical, literary fiction
103. Long Way Home: A Poignant Novel of Courage and Compassion in the Shadow of WWIIAuthor: Lynn AustinYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Christian, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
104. Magic LessonsAuthor: Alice HoffmanYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, magical realism, paranormal, witches
105. Malibu RisingAuthor: Taylor Jenkins ReidYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical, summer, summer reads
106. MaylunaAuthor: Kelley McNeilYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, contemporary, historical, music
107. MedusaAuthor: Jessie BurtonYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Greek mythology, fantasy, feminism, historical, mythology, retellings, young adult
108. Miss Newbury's ListAuthor: Megan WalkerYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, clean, historical, regency
109. Most ArdentlyAuthor: Gabe Cole NovoaYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, historical, queer, retellings, transgender, young adult
110. Mrs. Endicott's Splendid AdventureAuthor: Rhys BowenYear published: 2025Genre and themes: British literature, France, World War II, adult, friendship, historical, war
111. Mrs. Porter CallingAuthor: A.J. PearceYear published: 2023Genre and themes: British literature, World War II, adult, historical, war
112. Murder in Old BombayAuthor: Nev MarchYear published: 2020Genre and themes: India, adult, crime, historical, mystery, thriller
113. My Calamity JaneAuthor: Cynthia HandYear published: 2020Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, humor, paranormal, retellings, young adult
114. My Name Is Emilia del ValleAuthor: Isabel AllendeYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, historical, literary fiction, magical realism
115. Never Fall for Your FiancéeAuthor: Virginia HeathYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, fake dating, historical, regency
116. Nineteen StepsAuthor: Millie Bobby BrownYear published: 2023Genre and themes: World War II, adult, drama, historical, realistic fiction, young adult
117. No. 23 Burlington SquareAuthor: Jenni KeerYear published: 2023Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, drama, historical, mystery
118. Not for the Faint of HeartAuthor: Lex CroucherYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, retellings, young adult
119. Only the BraveAuthor: Danielle SteelYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Holocaust, World War II, adult, historical, war
120. Our Darkest NightAuthor: Jennifer RobsonYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Holocaust, Italy, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
121. Our Last Days in BarcelonaAuthor: Chanel CleetonYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, travel
122. Our Violent EndsAuthor: Chloe GongYear published: 2021Genre and themes: enemies to lovers, fantasy, historical, retellings, young adult
123. Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient GreeceAuthor: Yvonne KorshakYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, contemporary, drama, historical, young adult
124. Pride and Prejudice and PittsburghAuthor: Rachael LippincottYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, young adult
125. Psyche and ErosAuthor: Luna McNamaraYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Greek mythology, adult, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings
126. ReputationAuthor: Lex CroucherYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, historical, queer, regency
127. Return of the ThiefAuthor: Megan Whalen TurnerYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adventure, fantasy, high fantasy, historical, mythology, young adult
128. Ruthless VowsAuthor: Rebecca RossYear published: 2023Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, magic, romantasy, young adult
129. Shoulder SeasonAuthor: Christina ClancyYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, coming of age, contemporary, historical
130. Skin of the SeaAuthor: Natasha BowenYear published: 2021Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, mermaids, mythology, retellings, young adult
131. Small FavorsAuthor: Erin A. CraigYear published: 2021Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, horror, mystery, retellings, young adult
132. Something FabulousAuthor: Alexis HallYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, historical, m m romance, queer
133. Song of the Six RealmsAuthor: Judy I. LinYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Asian literature, fantasy, historical, mythology, romantasy, young adult
134. Songs in Ursa MajorAuthor: Emma BrodieYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, contemporary, historical, mental health, music
135. SpellbreakerAuthor: Charlie N. HolmbergYear published: 2020Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, magic, mystery, young adult
136. Summer DarlingsAuthor: Brooke Lea FosterYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, historical, summer, summer reads, womens fiction
137. Summer FridaysAuthor: Suzanne RindellYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, contemporary, historical, summer, summer reads
138. SunburnAuthor: Chloe Michelle HowarthYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, coming of age, contemporary, historical, lesbian, literary fiction, queer, summer
139. Swan LightAuthor: Phoebe RoweYear published: 2023Genre and themes: Canada, adult, historical, mystery, thriller
140. Swimming in the DarkAuthor: Tomasz JedrowskiYear published: 2020Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, contemporary, gay, historical, literary fiction, queer
141. SwordcrossedAuthor: Freya MarskeYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, m m romance, queer, romantasy
142. TemperanceAuthor: Beverley WattsYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, historical, regency
143. The Amalfi CurseAuthor: Sarah PennerYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Italy, adult, book club, fantasy, historical, magical realism, mystery
144. The Austen AffairAuthor: Madeline BellYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, contemporary, fantasy, historical, time travel
145. The Bad Muslim DiscountAuthor: Syed M. MasoodYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
146. The Ball at VersaillesAuthor: Danielle SteelYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, drama, historical, young adult
147. The BetrayedAuthor: Kiera CassYear published: 2021Genre and themes: dystopia, enemies to lovers, fantasy, historical, royalty, young adult
148. The Black Bird OracleAuthor: Deborah HarknessYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, paranormal, supernatural, vampires, witches
149. The Black Swan of ParisAuthor: Karen RobardsYear published: 2020Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, historical, war
150. The Book of Lost HoursAuthor: Hayley GelfusoYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, books about books, fantasy, historical, magical realism, science fiction, time travel
151. The Book of Lost NamesAuthor: Kristin HarmelYear published: 2020Genre and themes: Holocaust, World War II, adult, book club, books about books, historical, war
152. The Book of Two WaysAuthor: Jodi PicoultYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical
153. The BookbinderAuthor: Pip WilliamsYear published: 2023Genre and themes: British literature, World War I, adult, book club, books about books, historical, war
154. The Bridge to RembrandtAuthor: Nelson K. FoleyYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, drama, historical, realistic fiction
155. The Christie AffairAuthor: Nina de GramontYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, mystery, thriller
156. The Circus TrainAuthor: Amita ParikhYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War II, adult, book club, fantasy, historical, magical realism
157. The Codebreaker's SecretAuthor: Sara AckermanYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War II, adult, historical, mystery, war
158. The Company of FiendsAuthor: Kathryn MoonYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, erotica, fantasy, historical, monster, paranormal, smut, why choose
159. The Court of MiraclesAuthor: Kester GrantYear published: 2020Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, retellings, young adult
160. The Cuban HeiressAuthor: Chanel CleetonYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, mystery, thriller
161. The Devil and the HeiressAuthor: Harper St. GeorgeYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, forced proximity, friends to lovers, historical, victorian
162. The Diamond EyeAuthor: Kate QuinnYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Russia, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
163. The Dictionary of Lost WordsAuthor: Pip WilliamsYear published: 2020Genre and themes: British literature, adult, book club, books about books, feminism, historical
164. The Distant DaughterAuthor: Lorna CookYear published: 2025Genre and themes: British literature, adult, family, friendship, historical, mystery
165. The Duke UndoneAuthor: Joanna LowellYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, historical, regency, victorian
166. The Evening and the MorningAuthor: Ken FollettYear published: 2020Genre and themes: British literature, adult, adventure, fantasy, historical
167. The EverlastingAuthor: Alix E. HarrowYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, romantasy, time travel
168. The FamiliarAuthor: Leigh BardugoYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, magical realism
169. The First Witch of BostonAuthor: Andrea CatalanoYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, halloween, historical, witches
170. The Forest of Vanishing StarsAuthor: Kristin HarmelYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Holocaust, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
171. The Forgotten Bookshop in ParisAuthor: Daisy WoodYear published: 2022Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, book club, books about books, drama, historical
172. The Fourth DaughterAuthor: Lyn Liao ButlerYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Asia, Asian literature, adult, family, historical, mystery
173. The Gentleman's GambitAuthor: Evie DunmoreYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, historical, regency, victorian
174. The Ghost ShipAuthor: Kate MosseYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, adventure, fantasy, historical, pirates, queer
175. The Girl Who Fell Beneath the SeaAuthor: Axie OhYear published: 2022Genre and themes: dragons, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings, young adult
176. The Good Left UndoneAuthor: Adriana TrigianiYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Italy, World War II, adult, book club, family, historical
177. The Griffin Sisters' Greatest HitsAuthor: Jennifer WeinerYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, contemporary, family, historical, music
178. The Half Life of Valery KAuthor: Natasha PulleyYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, Russia, adult, fantasy, historical, mystery, queer
179. The Half MoonAuthor: Mary Beth KeaneYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction, mystery
180. The Half-Life of Ruby FieldingAuthor: Lydia KangYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War II, adult, historical, mystery, thriller, war
181. The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying ClubAuthor: Helen SimonsonYear published: 2024Genre and themes: British literature, World War I, adult, book club, historical
182. The Heart in WinterAuthor: Kevin BarryYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Irish literature, Westerns, adult, book club, historical, literary fiction
183. The Heart of WinterAuthor: Jonathan EvisonYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, family, historical, literary fiction, relationships
184. The Heiress Gets a DukeAuthor: Harper St. GeorgeYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, enemies to lovers, historical, marriage of convenience, victorian
185. The Hidden GirlAuthor: Lucinda RileyYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Roman, adult, book club, drama, historical, mystery
186. The House of EveAuthor: Sadeqa JohnsonYear published: 2023Genre and themes: African American, adult, book club, historical, race
187. The Invisible HourAuthor: Alice HoffmanYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, books about books, fantasy, historical, magical realism, time travel
188. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRueAuthor: V.E. SchwabYear published: 2020Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, fantasy, historical, magical realism
189. The Irish Boarding HouseAuthor: Sandy TaylorYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Ireland, Irish literature, adult, book club, chick lit, family, historical
190. The Island of Missing TreesAuthor: Elif ShafakYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, fantasy, historical, literary fiction, magical realism
191. The Italian BallerinaAuthor: Kristy CambronYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Christian, Italy, World War II, adult, book club, historical
192. The Italian DaughterAuthor: Soraya M. LaneYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Italy, Roman, adult, contemporary, historical, mystery
193. The Jackal's MistressAuthor: Chris BohjalianYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, war
194. The Lady Gets LuckyAuthor: Joanna ShupeYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, forced proximity, friends to lovers, historical, regency
195. The Lady Has a PastAuthor: Amanda QuickYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, historical, mystery, paranormal, suspense
196. The Lady's MineAuthor: Francine RiversYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Christian, adult, book club, historical
197. The Last Dance of the DebutanteAuthor: Julia KellyYear published: 2022Genre and themes: British literature, adult, chick lit, family, historical
198. The Last Dress from ParisAuthor: Jade BeerYear published: 2022Genre and themes: France, adult, book club, contemporary, fashion, historical, mystery
199. The Last List of Mabel BeaumontAuthor: Laura PearsonYear published: 2023Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, contemporary, friendship, historical
200. The Last Mrs. SummersAuthor: Rhys BowenYear published: 2020Genre and themes: British literature, adult, cozy, cozy mystery, historical, mystery
201. The Last Night in LondonAuthor: Karen WhiteYear published: 2021Genre and themes: British literature, World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery, war
202. The Last Rose of ShanghaiAuthor: Weina Dai RandelYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Asia, China, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
203. The Last Russian DollAuthor: Kristen LoeschYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Russia, adult, book club, family, historical, mystery
204. The Last SummerAuthor: Karen SwanYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Roman, Scotland, adult, historical, summer, summer reads
205. The Late Mrs. WilloughbyAuthor: Claudia GrayYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, cozy mystery, historical, mystery, regency, thriller
206. The League of Gentlewomen WitchesAuthor: india, HoltonYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, witches
207. The Light After the WarAuthor: Anita AbrielYear published: 2020Genre and themes: Holocaust, Italy, World War II, adult, historical, war
208. The ListenersAuthor: Maggie StiefvaterYear published: 2025Genre and themes: World War II, adult, fantasy, historical, magical realism, mystery
209. The Little Wartime LibraryAuthor: Kate ThompsonYear published: 2023Genre and themes: British literature, World War II, adult, books about books, historical, war
210. The Loneliness of Sonia and SunnyAuthor: Kiran DesaiYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Asia, India, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction
211. The Lost BookshopAuthor: Evie WoodsYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, books about books, fantasy, historical, magical realism, mystery
212. The Lost Story of Eva FuentesAuthor: Chanel CleetonYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, books about books, historical, mystery, thriller
213. The Lotus ShoesAuthor: Jane YangYear published: 2025Genre and themes: Asia, Asian literature, China, adult, book club, historical
214. The Love Elixir of Augusta SternAuthor: Lynda Cohen LoigmanYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, historical, magical realism
215. The Magician of Tiger CastleAuthor: Louis SacharYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, cozy, cozy fantasy, fantasy, historical, magic
216. The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie PostAuthor: Allison PatakiYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, historical
217. The Mayor of Maxwell StreetAuthor: Avery CunninghamYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, chick lit, crime, historical, mystery, thriller
218. The Medicine Woman of GalvestonAuthor: Amanda SkenandoreYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Westerns, adult, book club, historical, travel
219. The Memory Keeper of KyivAuthor: Erin LittekenYear published: 2022Genre and themes: Russia, adult, book club, historical, war
220. The Ministry of TimeAuthor: Kaliane BradleyYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, historical, science fiction, time travel
221. The MoorwitchAuthor: Jessica KhouryYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, fae, fantasy, historical, mystery, romantasy, witches
222. The Most Beautiful Girl in CubaAuthor: Chanel CleetonYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, war
223. The Murder of Mr. WickhamAuthor: Claudia GrayYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, cozy mystery, historical, mystery, retellings, thriller
224. The Night Ends with FireAuthor: K.X. SongYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, dragons, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings, romantasy
225. The Nurse's SecretAuthor: Amanda SkenandoreYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, mystery, suspense, thriller
226. The Paper Daughters of ChinatownAuthor: Heather B. MooreYear published: 2020Genre and themes: Asian literature, China, adult, book club, historical
227. The Paper Girl of ParisAuthor: Jordyn TaylorYear published: 2020Genre and themes: France, World War II, contemporary, historical, mystery, young adult
228. The Paris ApartmentAuthor: Kelly BowenYear published: 2021Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery, war
229. The Paris DressmakerAuthor: Kristy CambronYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Christian, France, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
230. The Paris HoursAuthor: Alex GeorgeYear published: 2020Genre and themes: France, adult, book club, historical, literary fiction
231. The Paris NovelAuthor: Ruth ReichlYear published: 2024Genre and themes: France, adult, book club, contemporary, food, historical, travel
232. The Perfect Crimes of Marian HayesAuthor: Cat SebastianYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, enemies to lovers, historical, queer
233. The Perils of Lady Catherine de BourghAuthor: Claudia GrayYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, cozy mystery, historical, mystery, regency, thriller
234. The Pianist's WifeAuthor: Soraya M. LaneYear published: 2025Genre and themes: World War II, adult, historical
235. The Possession of Alba DíazAuthor: Isabel CañasYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, gothic, historical, horror, paranormal
236. The ProphetsAuthor: Robert Jones Jr.Year published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, historical, literary fiction, queer, race
237. The Queen's FortuneAuthor: Allison PatakiYear published: 2020Genre and themes: France, adult, book club, historical, royalty
238. The Red PalaceAuthor: June HurYear published: 2022Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, mystery, thriller, young adult
239. The Restoration GardenAuthor: Sara BlaydesYear published: 2025Genre and themes: British literature, World War II, adult, historical, mystery, war
240. The Riviera HouseAuthor: Natasha LesterYear published: 2021Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, art, historical, mystery, war
241. The RomanticAuthor: William BoydYear published: 2022Genre and themes: British literature, adult, adventure, book club, historical, literary fiction
242. The Rose BargainAuthor: Sasha Peyton SmithYear published: 2025Genre and themes: fae, fantasy, historical, romantasy, young adult
243. The SafekeepAuthor: Yael van der WoudenYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, book club, historical, lesbian, literary fiction, queer
244. The Scarlet AlchemistAuthor: Kylie Lee BakerYear published: 2023Genre and themes: fantasy, historical, magic, young adult
245. The Scottish BoyAuthor: Alex de CampiYear published: 2020Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, enemies to lovers, historical, m m romance, queer
246. The Secret HoursAuthor: Santa MontefioreYear published: 2020Genre and themes: Ireland, Roman, adult, book club, historical
247. The Secret War of Julia ChildAuthor: Diana R. ChambersYear published: 2024Genre and themes: World War II, adult, adventure, book club, historical, war
248. The Seventh Veil of SalomeAuthor: Silvia Moreno-GarciaYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, historical, mystery, thriller
249. The Siren of SussexAuthor: Mimi MatthewsYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, clean, historical, regency, victorian
250. The Six Deaths of the SaintAuthor: Alix E. HarrowYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, horror, novella, short stories
251. The Stolen Life of Colette MarceauAuthor: Kristin HarmelYear published: 2025Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery
252. The Story She Left BehindAuthor: Patti Callahan HenryYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, book club, books about books, family, historical, mystery
253. The Things We Leave UnfinishedAuthor: Rebecca YarrosYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical
254. The Three Lives of Alix St PierreAuthor: Natasha LesterYear published: 2022Genre and themes: France, World War II, adult, book club, fashion, historical, war
255. The Unknown BelovedAuthor: Amy HarmonYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, crime, historical, mystery, thriller
256. The Unmaking of June FarrowAuthor: Adrienne YoungYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, fantasy, historical, magical realism, mystery, time travel
257. The Venice SketchbookAuthor: Rhys BowenYear published: 2021Genre and themes: Italy, World War II, adult, art, book club, historical, mystery, war
258. The Ways We HideAuthor: Kristina McMorrisYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War II, adult, book club, historical, magic, war
259. The Wedding Dress Sewing CircleAuthor: Jennifer RyanYear published: 2022Genre and themes: British literature, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
260. The Witch's HeartAuthor: Genevieve GornichecYear published: 2021Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, mythology, retellings, witches
261. The Witchwood KnotAuthor: Olivia AtwaterYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, fae, fantasy, gothic, historical, romantasy
262. The Woman Before WallisAuthor: Bryn TurnbullYear published: 2020Genre and themes: British literature, Canada, adult, book club, historical, royalty
263. The WomenAuthor: Kristin HannahYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, book club, feminism, historical, war
264. The Women of Arlington HallAuthor: Jane HealeyYear published: 2025Genre and themes: World War II, adult, book club, historical, mystery, war
265. These Violent DelightsAuthor: Micah NemereverYear published: 2020Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, contemporary, dark academia, historical, mystery, queer, thriller
266. Tom LakeAuthor: Ann PatchettYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, family, historical, literary fiction
267. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and TomorrowAuthor: Gabrielle ZevinYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, coming of age, contemporary, friendship, historical, literary fiction
268. Trial by FireAuthor: Danielle SteelYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adult, chick lit, contemporary, drama, historical, womens fiction
269. Victor's BlessingAuthor: Barbara SontheimerYear published: 2022Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, drama, historical, war
270. WellnessAuthor: Nathan HillYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, family, historical, literary fiction
271. What Passes as LoveAuthor: Trisha R. ThomasYear published: 2021Genre and themes: African American, adult, book club, historical, race
272. What the River KnowsAuthor: Isabel IbañezYear published: 2023Genre and themes: adventure, fantasy, historical, magic, mystery, young adult
273. When the Tides Held the MoonAuthor: Venessa Vida KelleyYear published: 2025Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, queer, romantasy
274. When the World Fell SilentAuthor: Donna Jones AlwardYear published: 2024Genre and themes: Canada, World War I, adult, book club, historical, war
275. When We Had WingsAuthor: Ariel LawhonYear published: 2022Genre and themes: World War II, adult, book club, historical, war, womens fiction
276. Where the Library HidesAuthor: Isabel IbañezYear published: 2024Genre and themes: adventure, fantasy, historical, mystery, young adult
277. While Paris SleptAuthor: Ruth DruartYear published: 2021Genre and themes: France, Holocaust, World War II, adult, book club, historical, war
278. Wild and Wicked ThingsAuthor: Francesca MayYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, fantasy, historical, lesbian, queer, witches
279. Wild Women and the BluesAuthor: Denny S. BryceYear published: 2021Genre and themes: African American, adult, book club, contemporary, historical, music
280. Wild, Beautiful, and FreeAuthor: Sophfronia ScottYear published: 2023Genre and themes: African American, adult, book club, historical, retellings
281. Wish You Were HereAuthor: Jodi PicoultYear published: 2021Genre and themes: adult, book club, contemporary, historical, literary fiction, realistic fiction
282. Wizard of Most Wicked WaysAuthor: Charlie N. HolmbergYear published: 2025Genre and themes: adult, fantasy, historical, magic, mystery, paranormal
283. You Should Be So LuckyAuthor: Cat SebastianYear published: 2024Genre and themes: LGBT, adult, historical, m m romance, queer, sports
284. Young MungoAuthor: Douglas StuartYear published: 2022Genre and themes: LGBT, Scotland, adult, contemporary, gay, historical, literary fiction, queer

Other resources to assist with your querying journey

Comp titles are only a small piece of the querying puzzle! Here are other resources I offer to help writers achieve their dreams of publishing their novels:

• Developmental editing services
• Pre-querying package
• Publishers accepting manuscript submissions this month
• Romance tropes list
• Random romance trope generator

Frequently asked questions

How recent do comp titles need to be?

Comp titles should be published within the past five to seven years so it is representative of the current market potential of your manuscript.

Can I use bestselling books as a comp title?

Yes, you can! However, the books that have sold the most copies aren’t always the most suitable comp titles. While it’s integral that a comp title has sold well, it’s better to choose a comp title that’s sold less well but more closely represents the tone and overall vibe of your own book.

How many comp titles should I include in my query letter?

You should aim for two comp titles in your query letter. You can include three, but agents would expect more than one.

Can I use a series as a comp title?

You can, but it’s best to pick a specific book within that series that best represents your manuscript.

What if I can’t find a historical romance comp title that fits my book?

You can broaden your horizons to also include other subgenres of romance!