Romance Price Guide

The Current State Of Prices On The Secondary Market

Many vintage romances are plentiful and can be easily purchased in good condition for under $10 from online booksellers and for even less in the wild. The romances specified in the list below have a consistent pattern of commanding a premium above basic used book prices when offered for sale by those who know the titles and editions for which demand is greater than supply .

Supply and demand for vintage romances can, however be inconsistent and confusing. There are several possible reasons for this.

Romance as a collectible book niche within the world of rare books is still new. There’s a general lack of awareness among book sellers and even romance collectors of the importance, scarcity, and desirability of certain titles, printings, and editions. In many cases, the original number of books in a printing or edition isn’t known. Even for books known to have been printed in large numbers 40 or 50 years ago, there’s no way to know how many survive at all, much less in collectible condition. For an example of how this affects price, see Stormfire, by Christine Monson. Add to these, the inconsistency with which booksellers describe and photograph copy details such as printing number, cover art, and condition, plus the changing conversations in the world of romance podcasts, blogs, newsletters, conference, and on social media (all colloquially referred to as Romancelandia), and the interest in any one book at a given time or the ability to find a copy for sale and pay a fair price for it can be as inconsistent as the wind direction on a romance cover. The prices below are based on extensive research, and the ranges for some books are quite wide. Many have to be updated frequently. Each one is a snapshot of how the market is behaving now, or at most within the past year, and could change abruptly.

Scope And Organization Of This List

Most of the romances on this list were published from the late 1960s through 1999 with a few exceptions. Romances were published throughout the entire 20th century and even earlier, and many of them are sought by collectors. Identifying each one within such a broad scope and researching the prices is a complex and time-intense process. Even within the later three decades, arguably the most prolific and rapidly evolving era for romance, there are books I’ve missed. As they come to my attention I will add them to this list, and as time allows, I will expand the years it covers to the widest degree possible.

The first and largest section of this list is arranged alphabetically by author. The second section is an alphabetical list of series in which all the books each series encompasses command a premium, and a list of items and ephemera . All editions of a title that consistently command a premium are noted. Signed or inscribed prices are noted only in cases where the market shows a pattern of these influencing realized price. Authors or titles with links have pages with more information.

The List

  • Balogh, Mary (There are a number of titles by Balogh published around the same time as those listed below that do not consistently command a premium. The premium noted below is largely dependent on the number of each title on the market at any given time, but these seem to be limited in number enough to keep the premium somewhat consistent)
    • A Masked Deception: Signet,1985 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $15–$23. Collectible
    • Desire After Dark Signet, 1985 (Prince Matchabelli Romance Edition, reprint of A Masked Deception); mass market paperback: $25–$40. Collectible
    • Red Rose: Signet,1986 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $14–$30. Collectible
    • The Trysting Place: Signet, 1986 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $20–$30. Collectible
    • The Wood Nymph: Signet, 1987 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $25–$40. Collectible
    • Gentle Conquest: Signet, 1987 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $12–$30. Collectible
    • An Unacceptable Offer: Signet,1988 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $15–$40. Collectible
    • Secrets Of The Heart: Signet, 1988 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $10–$30. Collectible
    • Lady With The Black Umbrella: Signet, 1989 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $20–$25. Collectible
    • A Certain Magic: Signet, 1991 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $20–$25. Collectible
    • Tempting Harriet: Signet, 1994 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $12–$39. Collectible
    • Dancing With Clara: Signet, 1994 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Collectible
    • The Last Waltz: Signet, 1998 (unknown number of printings of original edition); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
  • Bentley, Jayne
    • A Moment Past Midnight: (MacFadden Romance #192): Kim Publishing Corp., 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$75. Rare
    • Turning Towards Home: (MacFadden Romance #224): Kim Publishing Corp., 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$75. Rare
    • Maiden Of The Morning: (MacFadden Romance #249): Kim Publishing Corp., 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$75. Rare
    • Hired Husband: (MacFadden Romance #274): Kim Publishing Corp., 1980 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$75. Rare
    • Sabrina’s Scheme: (MacFadden Romance # 283): Kim Publishing Corp., 1980 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$75. Rare
  • Brandewyne, Rebecca
    • Coming Soon
  • Byers, Cordia
    • Heather:
      1. Fawcett, 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $8–$17. Collectible
      2. Ballantine, 1989 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $8–$12. Collectible
    • Callista: Fawcett, 1983 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
    • Nicole La Belle: Fawcett, 1984 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Scarce (For unknown reasons, this title is illusive on the secondary market)
    • The Black Angel: Fawcett, 1993 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $12–$25. Collectible (Although this was published later in Byers’ career, there are relatively few copies on the secondary market)
  • Cartland, Barbara
    • Coming Soon
  • Castle, Jayne
    • Vintage Of Surrender: (MacFadden Romance #132): Kim Publishing Corp., 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$55. Rare
    • Queen Of Hearts: (MacFadden Romance #157): Kim Publishing Corp., 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $30. Rare
  • Chase, Loretta
    • Lord Of Scoundrels: Avon, 1995; mass market paperback: $50–$225. Collectible
      (Original cover art is the desirable factor with this book, which has multiple printings. Even later printings with the original illustration can go for near $100 or more in good condition, with first printings commanding the highest prices)
  • Cole, Justine (pen name for Susan Elizabeth Phillips and Claire Kiehl — see “Phillips, Susan Elizabeth” for more)
    • The Copeland Bride: Dell, 1983 (one known printing of this edition); mass market paperback: $15–$45. Collectible (This title was reissued by Dell in 1989 under the authors’ real names)
  • Cuevas, Judy
    • Bliss: Jove Books (Berkley Publishing Group), 1995 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $24–$40. Rare
    • Dance: Jove Books (Berkley Publishing Group), 1996 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $60–$120. Rare
    • Starlit Surrender: Zebra (Kensington), 1988 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $12–$25. Collectible  
    • Black Silk: Jove Books (Berkley Publishing Group), 1991 (one known printing of this edition; book was reissued in 2002 under the name Judith Ivory); mass market paperback: $15–$20. Collectible
  • Dailey, Janet
    • Coming Soon
  • Denys, Theresa
    • The Flesh And The Devil:
      1. St. Martin’s Press, 1980; hardcover: $450. Rare
      2. Troubadour (Futura Publications, U.K.), 1980; mass market paperback: $350–$400. Rare
    • The Silver Devil:
      1. Troubadour (Futura Publications, U.K), 1978 (first edition & printing of Denys’s first book); mass market paperback: $165–$350. Rare
      2. Ballantine Books (Random House), 1984; mass market paperback: $275–$450. Rare (Even though this is a later edition, the striking cover illustration of a man holding a naked woman, by Tom Hall, makes it the more desirable edition for some collectors)
  • Deveraux, Jude
    • The Enchanted Land:
      1. Avon, 1978 (first printing); mass market paperback: $12–$15. Scarce
      2. Severn House Publications, 1989; first hardcover printing: $25. Collectible
    • The Black Lyon: Avon, 1980 (first printing); mass market paperback: $12–15. Scarce
    • Casa Grande: Avon, 1982 (first printing); mass market paperback: $12–15. Collectible
  • de Vincent, Eleanora
    • Tower Park: Popular Library (Gothic),1973 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $40. Scarce
    • Dark Dream Of Love: Playboy Paperbacks, 1980 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $40–$60. Scarce
  • Dodd, Christina
    • Castles In The Air: Harper (Harper Monogram line), 1993 (one printing with desired error cover art of a woman with three arms); mass market paperback: $40–$150. (Collectible, however, relatively few copies show up on the secondary market due to its popularity)
  • Douglas, Diana
    • Ski Lodge Nurse: Signet (New American Library), 1970 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$24. Scarce
    • Hockey Star Nurse: Signet(New American Library), 1972 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $25–$45. Scarce
    • Beauty Contest Nurse: Signet (New American Library), 1973 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $28. Scarce
    • Casino Nurse: Signet (New American Library), 1974 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Scarce
  • Gabaldon, Diana
    • Outlander:
      1. Delacorte Press, 1991 (first U.S. printing); trade hardcover: $175–$275. Collectible. (25,000 copies were published in the first print run, making it relatively plentiful. There were also many subsequent printings of the same edition that have collectible value to those who want the original format and cover art. These sell in the range of $35–$125. Click here for how to identify a book’s print number.)
      2. Cross Stitch (U.K. edition): Century, 1991 (one printing); trade hardcover: $150–$350. Rare. (There were only 2000 copies of this edition and no subsequent printings.)
      3. Delacorte Press, 1991; book club edition: $20–$69. Collectible.
      4. Dell, 1992 (multiple printings); mass market paperback with stepback illustration: $20–$75. Collectible bordering on rare. (While I haven’t yet confirmed how many copies of this edition were printed, there are fewer on the secondary market than there are hardcovers with the original artwork.)
      5. Easton Press, 2014; signed leather collector’s edition: $147. Collectible. (This edition remains available directly from the publisher.)
      6. Signature/Inscription premium: Gabaldon’s signature is common on the secondary market. Even so, it adds $75–$350 to the value of the U.S. first printing and $200–$600 to the value of the U.K. first printing. Among the most desirable signatures are those where Gabaldon included “1991,” which is the first year of publication. For all other printings and editions, her signature adds $30–$100 to the base price. Many listings for signed editions are for copies with the signature on a book plate. For years Gabaldon offered signed books plates through her website (She no longer does), which could be affixed to her books by anyone at any time. It is up to each collector whether this iteration of signed book is desirable, and the market indicates that for this book it is, but these copies generally sell in the lower range. At the very least, sellers should describe the presence of the book plate or photograph it for catalog or online listings. Very rarely copies with the signatures of the Outlander TV cast come to market. In January 2024 a copy of Cross Stitch inscribed by Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe sold for $5000.
  • Gaddis, Peggy (This is a very partial list of Gaddis’s romances that have sold or are listed at a premium. Gaddis also wrote mysteries and pulp novels. Bibliographies of her works online don’t identify the genre of each title. Without a book or pictures to examine I can’t make a determination. I’ll update Gaddis’s list as I’m able to study more of her works)
    • Sing For Your Supper: Arcadia House, 1941(first edition); trade hardcover: $25 Scarce
    • Sara Winslow, MD: Arcadia House,1959 (first edition); trade hardcover: $80. Scarce
    • Enchanted Spring: Arcadia House, 1960 (first edition, published as “Peggy Dern;” paperback reprint published as “Peggy Gaddis”); trade hardcover: $55. Scarce
    • The Nurse And The Pirate: Arcadia House, 1961(first edition); trade hardcover: $18.50. Scarce
  • Garwood, Julie
    • Gentle Warrior: Tapestry (Pocket Books), 1985 (first edition, first printing); mass market paperback: $30. Collectible (Subsequent printings of this edition haven’t been confirmed)
    • Rebellious Desire: Tapestry (Pocket Books), 1986 (first edition, first printing); mass market paperback: $15. Collectible (Subsequent printings of this edition haven’t been confirmed)
    • A Girl Named Summer: Scholastic, 1986 (at least two printings of the first edition are confirmed); mass market paperback: $15. Collectible (This is a teen romance)
    • The Lion’s Lady:
      1. Pocket Books, 1988 (first edition, first printing); mass market paperback: $20. Collectible (It’s possible subsequent mass market printings with the original cover are also command a premium, but this hasn’t been confirmed)
      2. Pocket Books, 1988 (hardcover book club edition): $15–$25. Collectible (This edition has the same cover art as the first paperback edition)
    • The Bride:
      1. Pocket Books, 1989 (first edition, first printing); mass market paperback: $17–$30. Collectible
      2. Pocket Books, 1989 (hardcover book club edition): $25–$50. Collectible (This edition has the same cover art at the first paperback edition)
    • Guardian Angel: Pocket Books, 1990 (hardcover book club edition): $15–$25. Collectible (The hardcover has the same cover illustration as the first mass market paperback printing, which does not currently sell at a premium)
  • Hannah, Kristen
    • A Handful Of Heaven: Fawcett (Ballantine), 1991(multiple printings with various designs); mass market paperback: $56–$86. Collectible (This title is out of print; all printings command a premium)
    • The Enchantment:
      1. Fawcett (Ballantine), 1992 (with stepback; one known printing, likely the first — see edition #2 for context); mass market paperback: $50–$80. Collectible
      2. Fawcett (Ballantine), 1992 (without stepback; at least one but possibly multiple printings); mass market paperback: $35–60. Collectible (There’s no indication on the publication page that this printing comes after the one with stepback, however, because publishers generally put stepbacks in the earliest printings, I’m guessing this printing is later than the one with stepback until proven otherwise)
      3. Ballantine, 1994 (reprint with a picture of a well on the cover; unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $20–$49. Collectible (The price premium for this edition is due to the title being out of print)
      4. Gale, 1997, (part of the Wheeler Large Print Book Series; unknown number of printings); large print hardcover: $25–$35. Collectible (The price premium for this edition is due to the title being out of print)
    • Once In Every Life: Fawcett (Ballantine), 1993 (with stepback; first printing); mass market paperback: $25–$50. Collectible
    • If You Believe: Fawcett (Ballantine), 1994 (with stepback; first printing); mass market paperback: $20–$36. Collectible
    • When Lightning Strikes: Fawcett (Ballantine), 1994 (with stepback; first printing); mass market paperback: $15–$35. Collectible
    • Waiting For The Moon: Fawcett (Ballantine), 1995 (with stepback; first printing); mass market paperback: $15–$37. Collectible
  • Hailey, Johanna (All books by this author are collectible. However, their ability to realize a price premium is inconsistent)
    • Enchanted Paradise: Zebra (Kensington), 1985 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $6–$25. Collectible
    • Crystal Paradise: Zebra (Kensington), 1986 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $6–$25. Collectible
    • Beloved Paradise: Zebra (Kensington, 1987 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $6–$15. Collectible
    • Sea Treasure: Pinnacle Books,1994 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $12–$35. Collectible
  • Henley, Virginia (These five books command a premium largely for their striking original cover art by Sharon Spiak. The first several printings of each have embossed lettering on the covers. The exact print numbers at which the letters are no longer embossed hasn’t yet been identified. Later printings may also be under Dell imprint Island Books)
    • The Raven And The Rose: Dell, 1987 (multiple printings with original cover art — see above under Henley for more info.); mass market paperback: $20–$35. Collectible
    • The Hawk And The Dove: Dell, 1988 (multiple printings with original cover art — see above under Henley for more info.); mass market paperback: $18–$45. Collectible
    • The Falcon And The Flower: Dell, 1989 (multiple printings with original cover art — see above under Henley for more info.); mass market paperback: $20–$35. Collectible
    • The Pirate And The Pagan: Dell, 1990 (multiple printings with original cover art — see above under Henley for more info.); mass market paperback: $25–$45. Collectible
    • The Dragon And The Jewel: Dell, 1991 (multiple printings with original cover art — see above under Henley for more info.); mass market paperback: $30–$57. Collectible
  • Jenkins, Beverly (All of Jenkins’s books up through the late 2000s sometimes realize a premium on the secondary market, but these six do so on a consistent basis)
    • Night Song:
      1. Avon, 1994 (multiple printings with original cover art); mass market paperback: $70–$250. Collectible (While all printings with the original cover are collectible, the first printing realizes the highest prices)
      2. Avon, 1994; hardcover book club edition: $150–$250. Collectible
    • Vivid:
      1. Avon, 1995 (multiple printings with original cover art); mass market paperback: $25–$80. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1995; hardcover book club edition: $25–$80. Collectible
    • Indigo:
      1. Avon, 1996 (multiple printings with original cover art); mass market paperback: $130–$250. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1996; hardcover book club edition: $96–$250. Collectible
    • Topaz:
      1. Avon, 1997 (multiple printings with original cover art); mass market paperback: $15–$45. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1997; hardcover book club edition: $25–$55. Collectible
    • The Taming of Jessi Rose: Avon, 1999; hardcover book club edition: $20–$35. Collectible
    • Belle And The Beau: Avon, 2002 (teen fiction); mass market paperback: $45. Collectible
    • Signature/inscription premium: While there’s currently no established premium, Jenkins’s signature is desirable. It’s reasonable to expect to pay more for her signature on any of her books and significantly more for it on one of her earlier collectible editions
  • Jordon, Nicole
    • Velvet Embrace: Zebra (Kensington), 1987 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $20–$68. Rare
  • Kimbrough, Katheryn (All Kimbrough’s books, which are gothics, are collectible, with most being relatively plentiful. However, the last several books in the 40-volume Saga Of The Phenwick Women series are harder to find and generally command a premium)
    • Alexandria, The Ambivalent: Popular Library, 1981 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $25–$40. Rare
    • Romula, The Dedicated: Popular Library, 1981 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $25–$40. Rare
    • Laura, The Imperiled: Popular Library, 1981 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $25–$40. Rare
    • Iris, The Bewitched: Popular Library, 1982 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$40. Rare
    • Belinda, The Impatient: Popular Library, 1982 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $50–$200. Rare
  • Kinsale, Laura
    1. Flowers From The Storm: Avon, 1992 (unknown number of printings with original cover); mass market paperback: $15–$35. Collectible
    2. Flowers From The Storm: Avon, 1992; hardcover book club edition: $20–$25. Collectible
    3. Flowers From The Storm: Rhapsody Romance Classics, 2003; hardcover: $10–$15. (There are multiple copies of this edition available on the secondary market, listed by mass used book sellers, and priced algorithmically between $30 & $60. However, there’s no current evidence that copies are desirable and selling at these prices)
  • Kleypas, Lisa
    • Where Passion Leads: Onyx, 1987 (at least two printings with original cover); mass market paperback: $90–$200. Collectible
    • Forever, My Love: Onyx, 1988 (unknown number of printings with first edition cover); mass market paperback: $75–$150. Collectible
    • Love, Come To Me: Onyx, 1988 (unknown number of printings with first edition cover); mass market paperback: $20–$50. Collectible
    • Give Me Tonight: Onyx, 1989 (unknown number of printings with original cover); mass market paperback: $45–$80. Collectible
    • Only In Your Arms: Avon, 1992 (only first printings consistently sell for a premium); mass market paperback: $20–$50. Collectible
    • Only With Your Love: Avon, 1992 (only first printings consistently sell for a premium); mass market paperback: $15–$45. Collectible
    • Then Came You: Avon, 1993 (unknown number of printings with first edition cover); mass market paperback: $25–$45. Collectible
    • Dreaming Of You: Avon, 1994 (multiple printings with original stepback); mass market paperback: $25–$55. Collectible
    • Somewhere I’ll Find You: Avon, 1996 (unknown number of printings with first edition stepback); mass market paperback: $15–$35. Collectible
    • Someone To Watch Over Me: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 1999; (unknown number of printings with first edition stepback); mass market paperback: $10–$40. Collectible
    • When Strangers Marry: (This book is a reprint of Only In Your Arms; copies with a full number line including “1” are considered “First Edition Thus.”)
      • Avon, 2002; (unknown number of printings with first edition thus stepback); mass market paperback: $15–$20. Collectible
    • Because You’re Mine: Avon, 1997 (unknown number of printings with first edition stepback); mass market paperback: $12–$30. Collectible
    • Prince Of Dreams: Avon, 1995; (unknown number of printings with first edition stepback); mass market paperback: $10–$32. Collectible
    • Stranger In My Arms: Avon, 1998 (multiple printings with first edition stepback); mass market paperback: $13–$30. Collectible
    • Midnight Angel: Avon, 1995 (unknown number of printings with first edition stepback; mass market paperback: $12–$28. Collectible
    • Again The Magic: Avon, 2004 (likely only the first printing has the desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $15–$30. Collectible
    • It Happened One Autumn: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2005 (likely only the first printing has the desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Devil In Winter: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2006 (likely only the first printing has the desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Secrets Of A Summer Night: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2004 (likely only the first printing has the desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Scandal In Spring: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2006 (likely only the first printing has the desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Where Dreams Begin: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2000 (at least two printings with desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $6–$20. Collectible
    • Suddenly You: (This book is both desirable and plentiful. Its ability to sell for a premium varies at any given time depending on how many copies with desired stepback are available on the secondary market)
      • Avon, 2001 (unknown number of printings with desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $6–$20. Collectible
  • Lamb, Charlotte
    • Coming soon
  • Lee, Elsie
    • Coming soon
  • Lindsey, Johanna (None of Lindsey’s books are rare, in any cover edition or printing. Except for the first two, their popularity as collectibles stems largely from their clinch covers and stepbacks, which are arguably the most iconic of the 1980s & ’90s era of historical romance publishing. The price point for most of them is inconsistent in carrying a premium. For some titles, large print editions, omnibus editions, and editions published in countries other than the United States carry a noteworthy premium, particularly if the cover art is striking and unique. However, with a few exceptions specified below, these editions appear on the secondary market too infrequently to track and are not currently included here)
    • Captive Bride:
      1. Avon, 1977; mass market paperback: $5–$15. Collectible (There are at least eleven printings of this book with the original cover design. Only the first printing in very good condition sometimes carries a premium)
      2. Hardcover edition of currently unknown origin & date; dust jacket is lavender monochrome with a rose design: $45. Collectible (More information on this edition forthcoming soon)
      3. Five Star, 1996; library binding hardcover: $50–$92. Collectible
    • A Pirate’s Love:
      1. Avon, 1978 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $8–$22. Collectible (While only the first few printings have red edged pages, all printings with the original cover frequently sell for a premium)
      2. Severn House Publishers, 1988 (Great Britain & United States); hardcover: $28–$35. Collectible
    • Fire’s Of Winter:
      1. Avon, 1980 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
      2. Hardcover (library binding) edition of currently unknown origin & date: $37. Collectible (More information on this edition forthcoming soon)
    • Paradise Wild:
      1. Avon, 1981 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      2. Severn House Publishers, currently unknown date (Great Britain & Unites states); hardcover: $60–$100. Collectible (More information on this edition forthcoming soon)
      3. Large print hardcover edition of currently unknown origin & date with original cover art: $64. Collectible (More information on this edition forthcoming soon)
    • Glorious Angel:
      1. Avon, 1982 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $7–$15. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1982; hardcover book club edition: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Heart Of Thunder:
      1. Avon, 1983 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $8–$18. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1983, hardcover book club edition: $20–$25. Collectible
    • So Speaks The Heart:
      1. Avon, 1983 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $7–$12. Collectible
      2. Unknown publisher, 1984; hardcover book club edition: $8–$20. Collectible (more information on this edition forthcoming soon)
    • Brave The Wild Wind:
      1. Avon, 1984 (multiple printings with original cover design); mass market paperback: $8–$20. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1984; hardcover book club edition: $8–$30. Collectible
    • A Gentle Feuding:
      1. Avon, 1984 (multiple printings with desirable cover): mass market paperback: $8–$18. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1984; hardcover book club edition: $12–$20. Collectible
      3. Círculo de Lectores, 1986 (Una dolce Enemistad — Spanish language edition); mass market paperback & possibly trade hardcover: $25–$75. Collectible (The premium for this edition is largely due to the cost of shipping from booksellers in Spanish language-speaking countries to the United States. This edition is desirable for the original cover art, by Robert McGinnis, which features the entire naked backside of the man. On the U.S. first edition, the man’s buttocks are cropped. The existence of a hardcover edition with this desirable cover is unconfirmed)
    • Love Only Once: (two editions of this title were published with a clinch illustration. The first edition specified below, by Robert McGinnis, features a woman wearing gloves reclining on a settee with a fan in one hand and the other hand holding the back of the head of the man as he leans over her. The reprint clinch, by Elaine Duillo, featuring a standing couple embracing, does not typically carry a premium)
      1. Avon, 1985 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $$8–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1985; hardcover book club edition: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Tender Is The Storm:
      1. Avon, 1985 (Only the first printing has the desirable unobscured illustration; subsequent printings have a covering of some type over the male model’s originally naked haunches); mass market paperback: $15–$50. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1985; hardcover book club edition: $20–$60. Collectible
    • When Love Awaits:
      1. Avon, 1986 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1986; hardcover book club edition: $8–$15. Collectible
    • A Heart So Wild:
      1. Avon, 1986 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $8–$16. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1986; hardcover book club edition: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Hearts Aflame:
      1. Avon, 1987 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1987; hardcover book club edition: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Secret Fire:
      1. Avon, 1987 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1987; hardcover book club edition: $12– $30. Collectible
    • Silver Angel:
      1. Avon, 1988 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $6–$20. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1988; hardcover book club edition: $8–$25. Collectible
    • Tender Rebel:
      1. Avon, 1988 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1988; hardcover book club edition: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Savage Thunder:
      1. Avon, 1989 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $12–$24. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1989; hardcover book club edition: $15–$25. Collectible
    • Defy Not The Heart:
      1. Avon, 1989 (multiple printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $10–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1989; hardcover book club edition: $15–$35. Collectible
    • Gentle Rogue: (two editions of this title were published with a clinch illustration. The first edition specified below features Fabio on the deck of a ship, a rope clutched in one hand and a woman in the other. The reprint cover is by Sharon Spiak and is original to The Hawk And The Dove, by Virginia Henley. On this title it doesn’t command a premium)
      1. Avon, 1990 (unknown number of printings with desirable cover); mass market paperback: $10–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1990; hardcover book club edition: $15–$35. Collectible
    • Warrior’s Woman:
      1. Avon, 1990 (unknown number of printings with desirable cover): $8–$20. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1990; hardcover book club edition: $10–$20. Collectible
    • Once A Princess: (the mass market paperback for this title does not command a premium)
      • Avon, 1991; hardcover book club edition: $15–$30. Collectible
    • Man Of My Dreams: (though common, the editions below have a particularly eye-popping illustration by Elaine Duillo featuring a naked Fabio [the book club edition’s illustration is on the back cover], for which people are sometimes willing to pay a premium)
      1. Avon, 1992 (unknown number of printings with desirable stepback); mass market paperback: $6–$25. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1992; hardcover book club edition: $12–$20. Collectible
  • London, Laura
    • The Windflower:
      1. Dell, 1984 (at least two printings of first edition); mass market paperback: $20–$34. Collectible (there isn’t yet enough accessible sales history to determine if the premium is limited to only the first printing)
      2. Dell, 1989 (unknown number of printings of this reprint with John Ennis illustration, which is the factor making this edition desirable); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      3. Rhapsody Romance Classics, 2003; hardcover: $12–$25. Collectible
  • McNaught, Judith
    • Whitney, My Love: Pocket Books, 1985 (first printing with illustration featuring a woman’s face and an embracing couple beneath it by Harry Bennet); mass market paperback: $20–$80. Collectible
    • A Kingdom Of Dreams:
      1. Pocket Books, 1989 (first printing with stepback illustration by Morgan Kane); mass market paperback: $30–$50. Collectible
      2. Pocket Books, 1989; hardcover book club edition: $35–$55. Collectible
  • Moning, Karen Marie
    • To Tame A Highland Warrior: Dell, 1999 (unknown number of printings of the first edition with original cover art); mass market paperback: $12–$30. Collectible
    • Beyond The Highland Mist: Dell, 1999 (unknown number of printings of the first edition with original cover art); mass market paperback: $12–$25. Collectible
    • To Tame A Highland Warrior & Beyond The Highland Mist: Rhapsody, 2003; hardcover omnibus edition: $9–$22. Collectible
    • The Highlander’s Touch:
      1. Dell, 2000 (unknown number of printings of the first edition); mass market paperback: $8–$21. Collectible
      2. Dell, 2000; hardcover book club edition: $10–$25. Collectible
    • Kiss Of The Highlander
      1. Dell, 2001 (unknown number of printings of the first edition); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      2. Dell, 2001; hardcover book club edition: $10–$25. Collectible
  • Monson, Christine
    • Stormfire: Avon, 1984 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $56 — $125. (Considered rare, but recently a higher than usual number are for sale online, driving down realized price. Just a year ago a copy in only fair condition could sell for more than $100. This is an example of how far prices can swing based on immediate supply and demand)
  • Phillips, Susan Elizabeth & Claire Kiehl
    • The Copeland Bride: Dell, 1989 (reprint; one known printing. Originally published in 1983 under the pen name “Justine Cole”); mass market paperback: $15–$40. Collectible.
  • Phillips, Susan Elizabeth
    • Fancy Pants:
      1. Pocket Books, 1989 (one known printing of this edition); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
      2. Pocket Books, 1989; hardcover book club edition: $75. Collectible
  • Putney, Mary Jo
    • The Diabolical Baron: Signet (New American Library), 1987 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $18–$25. Collectible
  • Quinn, Julia
    • Splendid: Avon, 1995 (multiple printings with first edition illustration); mass market paperback: $8–$20. Collectible
    • Dancing At Midnight: Avon, 1995 (multiple printings with first edition illustration); mass market paperback: $20–$25. Collectible
    • Minx: Avon, 1996 (multiple printings with first edition illustration); mass market paperback: $12–$35. Collectible
    • Everything And The Moon: Avon, 1997 (multiple printings with original illustration on the back cover); mass market paperback: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Brighter Than The Sun: Avon, 1997 (multiple printings with original illustration on the back cover); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • To Catch An Heiress: Avon, 1998 (multiple printings with original illustration on the back cover); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Collectible
    • How To Marry A Marquis: Avon, 1999 (multiple printings with original illustration on the back cover); mass market paperback: $8–$25. Collectible
    • The Duke & I
      1. Avon, 2000 (multiple printings with original illustration on the back cover); mass market paperback: $22–$50. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2000; hardcover book club edition: $35–$60. Collectible
      3. Avon, 2021; hardcover trade edition, signed by Quinn: $50–$140. Collectible
    • The Viscount Who Loved Me
      1. Avon, 2000 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $30–$55. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2000; hardcover book club edition: $25–$40. Collectible
    • An Offer From A Gentleman
      1. Avon, 2001 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $25–$50. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2001; hardcover book club edition: $15–$30. Collectible
    • Romancing Mister Bridgerton
      1. Avon, 2002 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $30–$40. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2002; hardcover book club edition: $20–$35. Collectible
    • To Sir Philip, With Love
      1. Avon, 2003 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $10–$30. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2003; hardcover book club edition: $30–$45. Collectible
    • When He Was Wicked
      1. Avon, 2004 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $8–$27. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2004; hardcover book club edition: $20–$35. Collectible
    • It’s In His Kiss
      1. Avon, 2005 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $8–$30. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2005; hardcover book club edition: $15–$25. Collectible
    • On The Way To The Wedding
      1. Avon, 2006 (multiple printings with original stepback illustration); mass market paperback: $10–$32. Collectible
      2. Avon, 2006; hardcover book club edition: $20–$35. Collectible
    • The Further Observations Of Lady Whistledown: Avon, 2003; hardcover book club edition: $12–$15. Collectible
    • Lady Whistledown Strikes Back: Avon, 2004; hardcover book club edition: $12–$25. Collectible
    • Bridgerton Collectors’ Sets (only sets that are no longer available from the publisher and that can only be purchased on the secondary market are included here):
      1. Illumicrate (Piatkus, Little, Brown U.K.), 2022
        • Complete set, first printing, signed by Quinn: $862–$1450. Collectible
        • Complete set, reprint, unsigned: $770–$1200. Collectible
        • Individual books of either printing: $65–$140. Collectible
    • Once Upon A Book Club Limited Edition (HarperCollins), 2021 (Only the first four books in the series are sold out; however, it’s only possible to purchase complete sets on the secondary market, which is why they’re included below even though the last four books are still available directly from Once Upon A Book Club)
      • Complete set: $460–$900. Collectible
      • Boxed set of volumes 1 – 4 including accessories: $600–$1000. Collectible
      • The Duke And I: $200–$300. Collectible. (This is the only title in the set signed by Quinn)
      • The Viscount Who Loved Me: $150–$200. Collectible
      • An Offer From A Gentleman: $150–$200. Collectible
      • Romancing Mr. Bridgerton: $150–$200. Collectible
  • Richmond, Clare
    • Runaway Heart: Harlequin (American Romance #174), 1986 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $75–$157. Collectible (This book is in demand because the story is set in Disney World)
  • Rivers, Francine (All Rivers’ early romances are out of print and sell for a premium. For titles with more than one edition, the market doesn’t currently distinguish between first and later editions with regard to price)
    • Kathleen:
      1. Jove (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich), 1979 (first printing); mass market paperback: $30–$65. Collectible
      2. Jove (Berkley), 1984 (identified as a second printing on the copyright page); mass market paperback: $30–$65. Collectible. (This printing has the same cover illustration as the first printing but the title lettering is styled in all gold, vs. the more elaborate fuchsia and gold design on the first printing)
    • Sycamore Hill:
      1. Pinnacle Books, 1981 (first printing); mass market paperback: $41. Collectible (The cover of this edition features a man seated in a buggy with his hat off and a woman standing beside it)
      2. Jove, 1985; mass market paperback: $45. Collectible (This second edition has a more vibrant illustration than the first and is in the style of a clinch, making it potentially more appealing to some collectors than the first edition)
    • Rebel In His Arms: Ace, 1981 (two printings; second printing specified for 1983); mass market paperback: $20–$25. Collectible
    • This Golden Valley: Jove, 1983 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $20–$23. Collectible
    • Sarina: Jove, 1983 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $10–$20. Collectible
    • Hearts Divided: Jove (Second Chance At Love), 1983 (one printing); mass market paperback: $32. Collectible
    • Heart In Hiding: Jove (Second Chance At Love), 1984 (one printing); mass market paperback: $16–$68. Collectible
    • Pagan Heart: Jove (Second Chance At Love), 1985 (one printing); mass market paperback: $45. Collectible
    • Not So Wild A Dream: Jove, 1985 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $10–$20. Collectible
    • Outlaw’s Embrace: Charter, 1986 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $8–$20. Collectible
    • A Fire In The Heart: Charter, 1987 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $16–$22. Collectible
  • Roberts, Nora
    • Promise Me Tomorrow: (This title is out of print & Roberts is adamant that it remain that way, much to her fans’ disappointment. All editions and printings are desirable)
      1. Pocket Books, 1984 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $92–$101. Collectible
      2. Panther Books (U.K.), 1985 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $22–$99. Collectible
  • Saunders, Rubie
    • Marilyn Morgan, R.N.: Signet (New American Library), 1969 (one printing); mass market paperback: $10–$45. Scarce
    • Nurse Morgan’s Triumph: Signet (New American Library), 1970 (one printing); mass market paperback: $15–$55. Scarce
    • Marilyn Morgan, Cruise Nurse: Signet (New American Library),1971 (one printing); mass market paperback: $15–$45. Scarce
    • Nurse Morgan Sees It Through: Signet (New American Library), 1971 (one printing); mass market paperback: $35–$75. Scarce
  • Shiplett, June Lund
    • Journey To Yesterday
      1. Pocket Books, 1979 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $38–$45. Rare
      2. Signet, 1983 (reprint; one known printing); mass market paperback: $20–$32. Collectible
    • Winds Of Betrayal: Signet, 1987 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $26–$33. Collectible (Other books in the Kolter series do not currently sell for a premium)
  • Small, Bertrice (Collectors note: beginning in 1980 with Skye O’Malley, all first editions of Small’s books are trade paperbacks. Subsequent printings are mass market paperbacks. Most were also issued as book club hardcover editions. Most of Small’s books were printed in large numbers, so only a few (listed below) consistently sell for a premium. However, there are others, primarily in the Skye O’Malley series, that sometimes do, especially in great condition or as book club editions. I will continue to monitor their prices, and if I observe a consistent realized price increase I will include them here)
    • The Kadin: Avon, 1978 (multiple printings with first edition cover art); mass market paperback: $25–$30. Collectible
    • The Kadin & Love Wild And Fair (omnibus): Rhapsody, 2004; hardcover: $25–$45. Collectible
    • Skye O’Malley:
      1. Ballantine, 1980; trade paperback: $12–$25. Collectible
      2. Ballantine, 1980; hardcover book club edition: $15–$25. Collectible
      3. Ballantine, 1981 (unknown number of printings with original cover art); mass market paperback: $8–$20. Collectible
  • Steel, Danielle
    • Coming Soon
  • Taylor, Day
    • The Black Swan
      1. Dell, 1978 (multiple printings with first edition cover art); mass market paperback: $20–$65. Collectible
      2. Troubadour (Futura Publications, U.K), 1979 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $40. Rare
  • Vaughn, Patricia
    • Murmur Of Rain:
      1. Pocket Books, 1996 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $25–$50. Collectible
      2. Pocket Books, 1996; hardcover book club edition: $75. Collectible
    • Shadows On The Bayou:
      1. Pocket Books, 1998 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $40–$55. Collectible
      2. Pocket Books, 1998; hardcover book club edition: $50–$75. Collectible
  • Vayle, Valerie
    • Nightfire: Dell, 1986 (unknown number of printings); mass market paperback: $75–$120. Rare
  • Veryan, Patricia
    • Coming soon
  • Virga, Vincent
    • Gaywyck: Avon, 1980 (Two printings of first edition); mass market paperback: $50–$750. Collectible. (While the secondary market doesn’t consistently show a price distinction between the first and second printings, general expectation should be that second printings sell on the lower end of the spectrum and that first printings in the best condition command the highest prices)
  • Wallace, Pat
    • House Of Scorpio: Avon, 1975 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $75–$195. Rare
    • The Wand And The Star: Pocket Books, 1978 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Scarce
  • Welles, Rosalind
    • Entwined Destinies:
      1. Dell (A Candlelight Romance #575), 1980; mass market paperback: $84–$120. Rare
      2. U.K. edition, details currently unknown: Rare
      3. Red Sea Press edition, details currently unknown: $46. Rare
      4. Genesis Press, 1994, details currently unknown: Rare
  • West, Tracy
    • Lesson In Love: Silhouette, First Love #28, 1982 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $8–$15. Collectible
    • Promises:
      1. Silhouette, First Love #194, 1986 (one known printing); mass market paperback: $15–$25. Scarce
      2. Silhouette, 1987 (unidentified hardcover edition; more research needed)
  • Woodiwiss, Kathleen
    • The Flame And The Flower:
      1. Avon, 1972 (first printing); mass market paperback: $100–$500. (Collectible and likely rare, but the exact status isn’t known. Click on title for more info)
      2. Avon, 1972 (hardcover book club edition): $15–$30. Collectible. (Even though the copyright page specifies a 1972 copyright date, this edition almost certainly was published later in the 1970s, likely at the same time as the mass market edition with the next iteration of cover art (with lavender background) was published.
      3. Signature/Inscription premium: Woodiwiss’s signature doesn’t currently appear on the secondary market often enough to establish a clear pattern of value, but there is evidence it commands a premium. [The 1975 Equinox printing (with red cover) has a facsimile signature often wrongly identified as a real signature & should not carry a premium!]
    • The Wolf And The Dove:
      1. Avon, 1974 (first printing); mass market paperback: $12–$15. Collectible
      2. Avon, 1974 (hardcover book club edition): $15–$30. Collectible
    • Shanna: Avon, 1977 (first printing, although there are at least four printings of this edition that may be desirable for the cover art); trade paperback: $15–$25. Collectible

  • Special Editions
    • The Classics Of Romance: An illusive line of 13 hardcover collectors’ editions published between 1996 and 1998 by MBI, Inc, the parent company of Easton Press and Danbury Mint. These editions include gilt-decorated covers and spines, tipped in illustrations from the covers of earlier paperback editions, archival-quality paper, ribbon markers, and occasionally, the author’s signature. These currently appear on the secondary market so infrequently that it’s impossible to identify a consistent price range for them. The rare listings I have seen were in the range of $15–$35, but for most of these I’ve never even been able to find one for sale. For more information about these, click here
    • The titles are as follows:
      • A Duel Of Hearts, by Barbara Cartland (?)
      • Bride Of Pendorric, by Victoria Holt
      • Carnal Innocence, by Nora Roberts
      • Devil’s Cub, by Georgette Heyer
      • Gentle Pirate, by Jayne Castle
      • Hummingbird, by LaVyrle Spencer
      • Seize The Fire, by Laura Kinsale
      • Skye O’Malley, by Bertrice Small
      • Sweet Savage Love, by Rosemary Rogers
      • Tell Me No Lies, by Elizabeth Lowell (?)
      • The Flame And The Flower, by Kathleen Woodiwiss
      • The Rebel Bride, by Catherine Coulter (?)
      • Wild Orchids, by Jude Deveraux
  • Rhapsody Romance Classics (More info coming soon!)
    • The Windflower, by Laura London
    • Sweet Savage Love, by Rosemary Rogers
    • Come Love A Stranger, by Kathleen Woodiwiss
    • Flowers From The Storm, by Laura Kinsale
  • Romance Treasury: Coming soon!
  • Series
    • Harlequin Graphic Novels: Coming soon!
    • Odyssey Books: Coming soon!
    • Sunfire: Coming soon!
  • Magazines (coming soon)
    • Gothic Journal
    • Harlequin Magazine
    • Harlequin’s Woman
    • Romantic Times
    • Romantic Spirit
  • Reference Books
    • Romance Reader’s Handbook: Coming soon!
  • Assorted Ephemera