5 Lesser-Known Love Stories To Fill The Bridgerton-Sized Hole In Your Heart

Whether you loved or despised its creative choices, Bridgerton Season 3 must have left you with a sense of aching longing. We already know that the next chapter will begin with the long-awaited masquerade ball that is set to kick off the love story of everyone's favorite Benedict Bridgerton, but the wait for that moment promises to be agonizing.

While in the Bridgerverse it is only a matter of days until the fateful ball (the time jump at the end of the third chapter made sure of that), in the real world it will be another two years before we can dive back into the Regency-inspired fantasy universe. Showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed in a chat with The Hollywood Reporter that it is likely that Bridgerton Season 4 will not arrive on Netflix until 2026.

That's a serious Bridgerton void that needs to be filled with something. If you have already read all of Julia Quinn's Bridgerton books, fans recommend switching to similar TV shows. Titles like Outlander and Pride and Prejudice are probably already on your must-watch list, so here are five lesser-known period dramas with Bridgerton vibes.

The Buccaneers (2023-present)

IMDb rating: 6.6/10

Where to stream: Apple TV+

Set in the 1870s, the series follows five American 'new money' girls who come to London to find husbands and disrupt the dull lives of English high society. The central theme of the show is the bond between the friends, but there are the modern stylizations, all kinds of love stories (including a queer one), and a compelling love triangle familiar to all Bridgerton fans.

Lost in Austen (2008)

IMDb rating: 7.4/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, ITVX

If you often fantasize about being transported to the Regency era and taking the place of a romantic heroine, there is a show made just for you. Lost in Austen follows Amanda Price, an avid fan of Jane Austen, as she suddenly finds herself trading places with Elizabeth Bennet from Pride & Prejudice. A real-life meeting with Mr. Darcy? Yes, please.

Harlots (2017-2019)

IMDb rating: 7.7/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Hulu, Fandango at Home

Many Bridgerton fans have been clamoring for a spinoff that focuses on the lives of the working-class underbelly, particularly concubines like Siena from Season 1. Harlots is just that. Set in Georgian London, the show focuses on brothel owner Margaret Wells, her employees, and her struggles to stay afloat while finding a place in society.

Gentleman Jack (2019-2022)

IMDb rating: 8.2/10

Where to stream: Prime Video, Max, Fandango at Home, BBC iPlayer

If you can't wait for the romance between Francesca Bridgerton and Michaela Stirling to take center stage, consider Gentleman Jack. Set in the 1830s amidst the lush landscapes of West Yorkshire, it follows the life of Anne Lister, who is restoring her new estate and finding a way to marry her girlfriend amidst the queer-hostile environment.

A Place to Call Home (2013-2018)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Where to stream: Prime Video

This Australian period drama is a real hidden gem for fans of historical romance. It stars nurse Sarah Adams, who returns to her rural hometown after World War II to rebuild her life after a tragedy. But not all of the wealthy members of the local society are happy to welcome Sarah into their cozy world.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter.