About eight years ago I went on a romance fic binge. So I've read a lot of the gilded-letter romance type of books. What sticks in my memory? Susan Johnson wrote the hottest sex. Amanda Quick wanted to be Georgette Heyer but wasn't. Fern Michaels Cinders to Satin is a good read. Judith McNaught is a real find (yes I seem to like/prefer books set around some faux Regency in which London was clean and modern plumbing is implied ;-) Kat Martin wasn't bad, Anne Bishop's Blood Jewels trilogy was an amazing read (just amazing!) - And if you like sci-fi/fantasy/romance to try the Liaden Chronicles (http://www.korval.com/liad.htm) by Steve Miller & Sharon Lee.

Read Local Custom and Scout's Progress this summer. Was wrapped in a damp bathtowel stinking of chlorine for the duration of most of one book. Couldn't stop turning the pages to get in the shower.