10 Action-Packed Historical Romances with Spy Plots You’ll Love
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If you’re a fan of romantic suspense and looking to explore the world of historical romance, you’re in for a treat. This curated list features thrilling love stories where one (or both!) of the main characters leads a double life as a spy. From secret missions to steamy moments under disguise, these historical romances are packed with intrigue, danger, and swoon-worthy romance.
Most of these picks are set during the Regency era—a perfect backdrop for a spy game, thanks to the Napoleonic Wars. Whether you’re looking for action-packed plots, marriage-in-crisis tropes, or enemies-turned-lovers, these books deliver both high stakes and high heat.
The Lord and Lady Spy by Shana Galen
Lord Adrian Smythe leads a thrilling secret life as one of England’s top spies—so secret, in fact, that even his wife Sophia doesn’t know. But when the war ends, both discover the other has been keeping secrets, and now they must work together to solve a murder.
Why You’ll Love It: A Regency twist on Mr. and Mrs. Smith with a marriage-in-crisis, second-chance romance that mixes action, banter, and rekindled love.
A Relentless Rake by Anna Harrington
Earl Alexander Sinclair is a charming rake working undercover to stop a political plot. Schoolmistress Olivia Everett is pulled into the mission when her brother is implicated, and together they must navigate secrets, scandal, and slow-burning passion.
Why You’ll Love It: A Marvel-inspired spy series with a Spiderman-style hero and a working-class heroine—perfect for fans of class-difference tropes and slow-burn tension.
Six Impossible Things by Elizabeth Boyle
When a rigid lord finds himself in a scandalous situation with an outspoken secret agent, the only solution is marriage. But she refuses to give up her spy career, and he’ll do anything to keep her safe—even if it means breaking all his own rules.
Why You’ll Love It: Features a strong heroine spy, marriage of convenience, and plenty of romantic and action-packed sparks—great as a standalone read in a series.
The Spymaster’s Lady by Joanna Bourne
Annique Villiers, known as the Fox Cub, is a legendary French spy. When captured and thrown into a dungeon with a British agent, she must navigate danger, deception, and unexpected desire to escape.
Why You’ll Love It: A dungeon meet-cute, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a brilliant, cunning heroine make this an unforgettable read.
This Earl of Mine by Kate Bateman
Heiress Georgie Caversteed needs a marriage of convenience—fast. She secretly marries a man in prison… only to find out he’s not who she thought. Enter spy and undercover earl, Benedict Wylde.
Why You’ll Love It: A one-of-a-kind meet-cute in prison, a feisty business-savvy heroine, and a fake marriage turned real romance.
To Catch an Earl by Kate Bateman
Spy Alex Harland is chasing the elusive Nightjar, a jewel thief who just so happens to be the woman he’s never forgotten. Emmy Danvers must keep her secret while falling harder for the man hunting her down.
Why You’ll Love It: Jewel thief vs. spy, hidden identities, and simmering tension in a Regency cat-and-mouse romance.
True Spies by Shana Galen
Baron Keating is a seasoned spy ready to retire, but his wife Elinor is bored with domestic life and dreaming of danger. When their paths cross again—this time professionally—they must face the secrets that could either destroy or save their marriage.
Why You’ll Love It: A Regency version of True Lies with a marriage-in-crisis, second-chance plot full of espionage and steamy surprises.
Written on Your Skin by Meredith Duran
Four years after spy Phin Granville is saved by society darling Mina Masters, fate throws them together again when Mina needs help. Danger reignites passion in this dark, intense story of deception and desire.
Why You’ll Love It: If you enjoy angst, complex characters, and high emotional stakes, this story brings the drama and the espionage.
The Princess and the Rogue by Kate Bateman
Russian princess Anastasia Denisova hides in London as “Anna Brown,” but her secret is uncovered by Bow Street agent Sebastien Wolff. Forced to live under his protection, their forced proximity sparks something more.
Why You’ll Love It: Forced proximity, a royal in hiding, and sizzling chemistry make this a fabulous conclusion to the Bow Street series.
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Final Thoughts
Historical romance with spies? Yes, please! These books are the perfect blend of danger, deception, and deep feelings. Whether you’re into dashing rakes with secret missions or fearless heroines undercover, these novels are guaranteed to deliver on both plot and passion.Loved this list? Be sure to sign up for our Substack where we share even more curated book recs, library tips, and Kindle Unlimited finds. And if you have a favorite spy historical romance, drop it in the comments—we’re always looking for more to add to our TBR!