If you’re a fan of historical mysteries brimming with Regency-era charm, witty dialogue, and intricate plots, Andrea Penrose’s books are a must-read. Known for her USA Today bestselling Wrexford & Sloane series and the captivating Lady Arianna Hadley mysteries, Penrose weaves tales of intrigue, romance, and adventure set against the backdrop of early 19th-century England. This guide provides a complete, reader-friendly list of Andrea Penrose books in order, perfect for new fans and seasoned readers alike. Let’s dive into her world of swirling silks, scientific discoveries, and suspense!
Why Read Andrea Penrose’s Books?
Andrea Penrose, a Yale-educated author with a flair for historical fiction, fell in love with Regency England after reading Pride and Prejudice. Her novels blend rich historical detail with engaging protagonists, earning her accolades like two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for Historical Mystery. Whether you’re drawn to the chemistry between Lord Wrexford and Charlotte Sloane or the daring exploits of Lady Arianna, Penrose’s stories offer something for every mystery lover. Plus, her books are translated into over ten languages, making her a global favorite
Below, we’ve organized all 41 of Andrea Penrose’s books by series, including her works under pen names Cara Elliott and Andrea Pickens. We’ll focus on her historical mysteries but also touch on her Regency romances for completists.
List Of Andrea Penrose Books in Order Of Release
| Publication Date | Title | Series | Pseudonym |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2011 | Sweet Revenge | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #1 | Andrea Penrose |
| December 2011 | The Cocoa Conspiracy | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #2 | Andrea Penrose |
| December 2012 | Recipe for Treason | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #3 | Andrea Penrose |
| August 2017 | Murder on Black Swan Lane | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #1 | Andrea Penrose |
| March 2018 | Murder at Half Moon Gate | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #2 | Andrea Penrose |
| May 2018 | Too Clever by Half | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #4 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2018 | The Stolen Letters | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #3.5 (Novella) | Andrea Penrose |
| March 2019 | Smoke & Lies | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #5 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2019 | Murder at Kensington Palace | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #3 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2020 | Murder at Queen’s Landing | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #4 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2021 | Murder at the Royal Botanic Gardens | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #5 | Andrea Penrose |
| April 2022 | A Question of Numbers | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #6 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2022 | Murder at the Serpentine Bridge | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #6 | Andrea Penrose |
| April 2023 | A Tangle of Secrets | Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery #7 | Andrea Penrose |
| September 2023 | Murder at the Merton Library | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #7 | Andrea Penrose |
| April 2024 | A Swirl of Shadows | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #8 | Andrea Penrose |
| October 2025 | Murder at Somerset House | Wrexford & Sloane Mystery #9 | Andrea Penrose |
Wrexford & Sloane Mystery Series in Order
The Wrexford & Sloane series is Penrose’s most popular, featuring the brilliant Earl of Wrexford and the fearless artist Charlotte Sloane. Set in Regency London, this series combines murder mysteries with scientific intrigue and a slow-burn romance. Perfect for fans of Bridgerton or Miss Scarlet and the Duke, these books are best read in publication order for plot and character development.
- Murder on Black Swan Lane (2017)
When a clergyman is found murdered with his face burned by chemicals, Wrexford becomes the prime suspect. Charlotte, hiding her identity as the satirical cartoonist A.J. Quill, teams up with him to unmask the real killer. This debut sets the stage for a dynamic partnership.
Why read it? Introduces the unforgettable duo and their witty banter. - Murder at Half Moon Gate (2018)
A murdered inventor and missing steam engine plans pull Wrexford and Charlotte into a dangerous investigation. With help from their young wards, Raven and Hawk, they uncover a web of deceit.
Why read it? Deeper character development and a gripping plot. - Murder at Kensington Palace (2019)
A scientist’s brutal murder at the Royal Institution leads Wrexford and Charlotte to a secret society. Personal stakes rise as Charlotte grapples with her past.
Why read it? Rich historical detail and emotional depth. - Murder at Queen’s Landing (2020)
When Lady Cordelia and her brother vanish amid rumors of a fraudulent trading scheme, Wrexford and Charlotte race to clear their names. The stakes threaten the British economy itself.
Why read it? A thrilling mix of finance and mystery. - Murder at the Royal Botanic Gardens (2021)
A botanist’s death during a scientific gala pulls the duo into international intrigue. Kit Sheffield’s role expands, delighting fans of this charming side character.
Why read it? Lush setting and a fan-favorite character shines. - Murder at the Serpentine Bridge (2022)
The murder of an engineering genius and a missing weapon prototype endanger peace celebrations after Napoleon’s defeat. Wrexford and Charlotte must protect their growing family.
Why read it? High stakes and heartwarming family moments. - Murder at the Merton Library (2023)
A suspicious fire and a scholar’s death at Oxford University send Wrexford and Charlotte on parallel investigations. Guilt and loyalty test their resolve.
Why read it? Atmospheric and emotionally complex. - Murder at the Ice Ball (2024)
A glittering Regency ball turns deadly, and Charlotte’s past threatens to unravel. The duo navigates salons and secrets to catch a killer.
Why read it? Glamorous setting with a twisty plot. - Murder at Somerset House (October 2025)
The latest in the series promises more intrigue as Wrexford and Charlotte tackle a new murder. Details are sparse, but expect wedding excitement and deception.
Why read it? A must for fans awaiting the next chapter.
Pro Tip: Start with Murder on Black Swan Lane to follow Wrexford and Charlotte’s evolving relationship. The series is ongoing, so stay tuned for updates!
Lady Arianna Hadley Mystery Series in Order
This earlier series follows Lady Arianna, an exiled Caribbean heiress seeking revenge for her father’s murder. Disguised as a male chef, she navigates London’s aristocracy with the half-Spanish Earl of Saybrook. These books are faster-paced with a dash of romance, ideal for readers who love culinary mysteries.
- Sweet Revenge (2011)
Arianna’s plan to avenge her father’s death is derailed when the Prince Regent falls ill after eating her dessert. She teams with Saybrook to clear her name and catch the poisoner.
Why read it? A delicious mix of chocolate and suspense. - The Cocoa Conspiracy (2011)
Arianna and Saybrook are ordered to capture a traitor in 1814 England, disrupting their quiet life. A side of romance sweetens the espionage.
Why read it? Perfect for fans of historical espionage. - Recipe for Treason (2012)
The couple’s adventures continue as they chase a conspiracy threatening the crown. Nontraditional characters add spice to the mystery.
Why read it? A satisfying series finale with high stakes.
Note: This series is complete, making it a great binge-read. Start with Sweet Revenge for Arianna’s full arc.
Regency Romances Under Pen Names
Andrea Penrose also writes Regency romances as Cara Elliott and Andrea Pickens. These novels feature witty banter and classic romance, often with adventurous heroines. Here’s a quick overview of key series:
- *Hellions of High Street (Cara Elliott)
- Scandalously Yours (2014)
- Sinfully Yours (2014)
- Passionately Yours (2014)
Why read it? Lighthearted romance with spirited heroines.
- *Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper (Andrea Pickens)
- Wagers Gone Awry (2015)
- Rakes and Rogues (2015)
- Damsels and Scoundrels (2015)
Why read it? Shortlisted for a RITA Award, perfect for romance fans.
- *Other Notable Romances
- The Diamond in the Rough (Cara Elliott, 2013)
- Code of Honor (Andrea Pickens, 2012)
Why read it? Standalone tales with charm and adventure.
For a full list of her 41 books, including lesser-known titles, check resources like FictionDB or MostRecommendedBooks.com.
Reading Tips for Andrea Penrose Fans
- Start with Wrexford & Sloane: If you’re new, begin with Murder on Black Swan Lane for its accessible mix of mystery and Regency flair.
- Love Side Characters? Raven, Hawk, and Kit Sheffield add humor and heart, especially in later Wrexford & Sloane books. No solo Kit books are planned, but he shines in Murder at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Craving Romance? Try her Cara Elliott titles for lighter, spicier stories.
- Stay Updated: Follow Penrose on Instagram (@AndreaPenroseBooks) or her blog at WordWenches.com for news on upcoming releases.
Why Andrea Penrose’s Books Stand Out
Penrose’s novels transport readers to a Regency world of silk gowns, scientific revolutions, and shadowy conspiracies. Her characters, from the brooding Wrexford to the resilient Arianna, feel authentic and relatable, while her plots keep you guessing until the final page. As Kirkus Reviews notes, she “deftly combines a Regency romance with a tricky mystery,” making her a standout in historical fiction.
Where to Buy Andrea Penrose Books
You can find her books on Amazon, Book Outlet, or your local bookstore. For availability and reviews, visit FictionDB or Goodreads. Links on sites like BookSeriesInOrder.com often lead to Amazon for easy purchasing.
What’s Next for Andrea Penrose?
With Murder at Somerset House set for October 2025, Penrose shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re hooked on Wrexford’s scientific sleuthing or Arianna’s culinary capers, there’s plenty to explore in her bibliography. Which series will you start first? Share your thoughts in the comments or join the conversation on social media!
Happy reading, and may your Regency adventures be as thrilling as Penrose’s!
