Georgette Heyer: S/D

A friend told me she was really good, so I tried one (can't remember the title): third rate Jane Austen pastiche, I thought, and of no interest at all. She also slaps you round the face with obvious research, even when it has nothing to do with anything. I didn't like her at all.

Don't believe it! Georgette Heyer has a wonderful satiric touch. Her romances are highly comical. I would suggest beginning with 'These Old Shades' and 'A Devils Cub'. They are some of the funniest and most touching.
Also keep an eye out for 'Venetia', and 'The Masqueraders'. They are all brilliant. I prefer her lighter touch, so don't go for her heavier historicals at first.