For those looking for a book that can act as aBridgertonreplacement, this underrated romantasy novel is an absolute must-read for fans of the Netflix series. The popularity of the period drama based on Julia Quinn’s novels continues to climb, highlighted in that theconfirmation ofBridgertonseasons 5 and 6has already been announced despite the fact thatBridgertonseason 4 is not set to arrive to streaming until 2026.Even so, audiences have continued to wait and speculate on what will unfold for the Bridgerton family while also searching for something similar to fill the time.
There are, thankfully, quite a few shows that mirror the romance series that can easily fill the void beforeBridgertonseason 4 arrives on Netflix.Sadly, the same cannot be said for the literary space, as most popular BookTok series are focused in the romantasy sphereover the historical fiction one bothBridgertonseries reside in. However, one recent release does combine these popular romantasy trends withBridgerton’s core aspects while also adding its own spin, making it a perfect read for series fans and readers alike:The Gentleman and His Vowsmithby Rebecca Ide.
The Gentleman And His Vowsmith Is A Great Bridgerton Replacement Read
Ide’s Novel Captures The Passion And Humor Of Quinn’s And Netflix’s Series
Ide’s romantasy book is perfect for fans seeking aBridgertonreplacement read to occupy them while waiting for the series, as it has the best parts of the show and books.The Gentlemanand His Vowsmithtells the story of Lord Nicholas Monterris, the heir to a dying duchal in Regency England who is forced to marry Lady Leaf Serralto secure his line. The arrival of his former lover Dashiell sa Vare and an unexpected murder derail those plans, though, leading Nic, Leaf, and everyone in the manor on a magical hunt for a killer before time runs out.
The novel seamlessly combines aspects of theBridgertonNetflix show and bookswith a fantasy twist, adding even more layers to that already drama-filled formula.Ide’s humor and ability to illustrate themes of duty versus desire are executed as well as season 2 of the Netflix series, humanizing each character while also giving the narrative great moments of levity. The intensity remains, though, meeting Quinn’s books easily in regards to heated moments and the agony of self-denial, becoming one of many reasons why Ide’s book is a gripping read beyond its fun premise.
Ide’s Novel Is More Than Just A Fun Standalone Romantasy Book
Its Representation And Murder Mystery Plot Let It Stand Out
The Gentleman and His Vowsmith’s representation, magic system, and addition of murder mystery tropes allow it to become more than what is usually expected from a standalone romantasy book orBridgertonreplacement.Nic and Dashiell’s relationship is one of few canon gay relationships in the romantasy sphereas well as a second-chance romance. That particular trope is not utilized very often in romantasy, so adding that aspect to their relationship lets it stand out and lets their relationship progress in a fresh way that the heavily enemies-to-lovers pool of books do not get to.
Ide’s book also has one of the moreunique magic systems in fantasythrough the Brillance system and the rules for vowsmiths, which mirror parts of the rigid society ofBridgertonand heavily play into what makes the story so fun.The rune-like language and its various uses make it both versatile and difficult to get right, leading to many telling moments in the storydue to Nic’s sensitivity and Dashiell’s expertise. It also adds even more to the overall mystery, as those magical rules complicate the standard whodunnit plotline even further than most in the genre.
Ultimately,The Gentleman and His Vowsmithis a twistingBridgertonstyle romantasy book that will have you both laughing and guessing until the last page.
In a similar vein, the murder mystery also lets the romantasy standalone shine, as its combination of tropes tilts it in constantly new directions.The combination of close quarters and magical hijinks as each guest tries to maintain their decorum keeps you constantly wondering, making Ide’s book an even more complex puzzle than the average whodunnitas you are left to consider the mundane and magical means someone could have used to commit the crime. Ultimately,The Gentleman and His Vowsmithis a twistingBridgertonstyle romantasy book that will have you both laughing and guessing until the last page.
Bridgerton
Cast
Bridgerton, released on June 10, 2025, is set in Regency-era England and follows the lives of the influential Bridgerton family. The series explores themes of wealth, lust, and betrayal, portraying societal dynamics through a blend of romance and intrigue.
