The Duke and I (Bridgertons)

Read this for the second time as I came across it recently in some discussion forum on the store. Go away with your one or two star reviews.... this was a great book - will start the next one now methinks!

Some authors have a gift for writing witty, sharp dialogue and some make an effort but it just falls flat. This is probably my 5th Julia Quinn novel and the last 2 have hammered the point home to me that Ms. Quinn falls in the latter category. She crafts lovely sentences and is obviously creative and imaginative but the dialogue is often silly, redundant and annoying. If she could work on this aspect of her writing, her books would be much improved. I appreciate humor in the books I read and some writers have a knack for it, others don't. A truly gifted author can make you laugh and cry throughout the book and unfortunately, in Daphne and Simon's story, I did neither. I think the characters had great potential and I liked them both in the beginning and also had so much compassion for Simon. But the premise became ridiculous, although I don't want to post spoilers. And there were just too many annoying characters. The love scenes were just so-so. I really was annoyed that Daphne seemed obsessed over becoming pregnant when she finally realizes *how* you become pregnant - her lack of knowledge was appalling. Overall, I can't find too much to recommend this book and I don't plan on continuing with the Bridgerton series.

Julia Quinn's The Duke and I was a very entertaining read. There was well written humor and I like the characters very much. I chose to try Julia because she came up as a suggestion when I bought some Lisa Kleypas books (who I love!). The book was...OK. There are certainly better books out there that draw you in more with the feelings of the relationship...and the passionate scenes left MUCH to be desired.

I enjoyed this book until the last few chapters. For most of the book the relationship between Daphne and Simon is sweet and interesting. But toward the end the heroine becomes manipulative, and I didn't like her by the end of the book.

The book is funny, which is the only good thing I can say about it. The story was not something you could believe, the caracters weren't profound, the was too much manipulated to be good. I was expecting something better from this author. This was the first book I read from her, and I'm not planning in reading other ever.

I enjoyed the characters and appreciated the writing style. I loved the flawed Simon and how he masters his past and overcomes his impediment. I thought Daphne was plucky and enjoyable.

My issue was that there was too much sex. This book was recommended to me by someone who has similar tastes in books, so I bought it without reading the reviews. That's my fault. Had I read them, I wouldn't have bought the book. I can't even say that if the sex were toned down that it would be a great book because I think if they took that out, there wouldn't be much of a story left.

However, if that sort of thing doesn't bother you, then this would be a great book.

I was so loving this book. I loved the characters (I like the "wounded hero who has a little boy in him that needs love" theme). I loved the plot. I loved the story.

Then she raped him. Like others have said in their reviews, had this been a man taking advantage of a woman who was incapacited or drunk, everyone would be up in arms. Yet, because it's a woman taking advantage of a man in that condition, it's ok? No. It's still rape. And it's not any more acceptable than any other kind.

I stopped reading the book at that point. I can't go on. At this point, I've lost interest in what happens in this story - and wish I could get my money back on the purchase of this book.

This is my first Quinn book to read. Are all her books like this? I'd like to know in advance, so I know if this is an author I want to follow. Right now, I think the answer to that, sadly, is no. She had potential. What happened? :-(

Julia Quinn is one of the more interesting romance writers. She brings English upper class life in the 19th century to life and shows a definite sense of humor. Not as trite and boring as many of the genre.

I don't like rape in my romance. And getting a character drunk and taking advantage of them constitutes rape, in my book.

If you read Regency romances for a more innocent worldview, even with a bit of passion, this is not that world. Not the world where people respect each other's wishes.

I'm off two minds about this book. In the beginning I enjoyed the characters immensely. Both Simon and Daphne are witty, articulate and absolutely entertaining. The friendship that blossoms between them is sweet and refreshing.

It's not a surprise when Daphne begins to fall for Simon. Nor, is it a surprise that Simon begins to develop feelings for Daphne. However, throughout it all Simon maintains that he will never marry and will absolutely never have children. He has excessive baggage from his childhood regarding his father and he feels that having a wife and family would be living out his father's dream and he is unwilling to do so. Still, there is a certain sexual tension between the two of them.

Fast forward to mid-book, Daphne is compromised. She and Simon can no longer resist the sexual urges and they *gasp* kiss in the gardens during a ball. Simon, Daphne's brother, catches them and challenges Simon to a duel after he adamantly refuses to marry Daphne. Supposedly to save Simon, Daphne tells him that they were seen kissing and if he does not marry her, she will be ruined. Simon reluctantly agrees but with the express warning that he cannot have children. Daphne accepts and they are married.

This is where the book goes awry for me. Daphne learns that Simon lied, it is not that he cannot have children but that he will not have them. She is, reasonably upset, but they move past it. Then one night Simon stumbles in drunk. He does nothing but snuggle with Daphne before passing out. She decided to have her way with him. He wakes during the process and realizes that he is in a position to impregnate her and tried to pull out but she forces him to finish inside her. Hopefully, to her mind, forcing him to get her pregnant. I found this act utterly intolerable. It was bad enough that she manipulated him into marrying her but forcing him into a position to get her pregnant was absolutely horrible.

The story does end well and they do come to terms with everything but for me it was just not enough to get the bad taste out of my mouth over Daphne's gross manipulation.

Poorly researched book. Many deportments that are anachronistic, especially with the class of people Quinn writes about. The main character, Daphne, has an arrogant feminist superiority that is cringe-worthy and also her display of it poorly fitting with her time. It is not that women then did not have such views but they did not behave in quite the way Quinn's characters are written nor were they quite so condescending toward their men.

Much of the humour is too modern and forced which makes the book cheesy.

The best part of the book is the beginning depicting the Duke Simon's childhood. It is a story of great potential. Unfortunately, many a good idea is ruined in its author's quest to create a sellable book for pop demand.

DNF.

While it was quite entertaining at first, I found it got irritating very quickly. I got about half-way through and had to give up. "I'm never going to marry," he says but she replies "But maybe he'll marry me!"

I also didn't really buy the relationship, which made Daphne's feelings a little hard to take. These two weren't going to make each other happy. They were going to make each other miserable.

Went and read some spoilers in some other reviews and it only really gets worse. Not wanting to get married and have children isn't something to be overcome. I want him to change his mind, if that's the point of the story. I don't want her to change his mind for him. That's not how you do character arcs. Characters influence other characters. They don't "make" them do things. That is not romance. That is gross.

I never thought that I could have a whole book spoiled for me by one action, but this book proved that I could. What's so irritating about this is that I was enjoying the book. I liked the character's amusing dialogue and the friendship the developed.

Things did start to go a bit downhill for me when Daphne chases Simon down at the duel. I don't get the most optimistic feeling when I see someone willing to die rather than marry. I know it wasn't Daphne in particular, but when the hero has so much baggage that death is preferable to his other options I know the road ahead is not going to be smooth. I started to get nervous about how something with that weight would be handled by the author. She has skill but in all the books I've read by her they all seemed very light and not really serious at all. I was willing to go along for the ride though.

In some ways I wish I had stopped reading half way through and never got such a bad taste in my mouth. I know that Simon lied by omission in letting Daphne assume he wouldn't have kids because he couldn't have them. But who can really blame him? He was ashamed of how he was when he was a kid. If he would have said he just plain wouldn't have kids she would have demanded to know why and he would have had to explain all his humiliation. Who would willingly do that? She had to maneuver him into marrying her in the first place. He would have rather died in the duel than marry her and be put in that situation! She was even the one that initiated the situation that led to them having to marry! She seems to forget it was all her idea toward the end.

I just can't help but think that the whole conflict in this book was manufactured by Daphne. The way the book was written seems to make Simon seem like the bad guy when what she did to him was unforgivable. I was ready for Simon to find someone new after that. I can't believe he came back and actually apologized to her. She tried to take a baby from him by force! I'm sorry I know he was into it, but he was drunk and didn't realized she wouldn't let him pull away at the end. When he realized he started struggling. That right there is force. If a man had done that to a girl there would have been a lot more people upset by it.

I know that Daphne made a token statement about being okay with him not wanting kids if it was for the right reason, but I doubt that. She was consumed by the thought of children like she wouldn't have been complete without them. Besides, she may not have agreed with his reasons, but who is she to try and say he doesn't have a right to feel that way?

I don't know if I'll read anymore of her. I've read her other Bridgerton books (and decided to finally read the 1st one) and I thought most of them were ok, but this one really disturbed me. I don't know if I want to risk feeling like that again. I read to watch two people fall in love, not to watch someone try to force her husband to impregnate her.

Did not finish. At 30% (kindle) I deleted this book because conversations just dragged and never got to the point. Hero's idea to court heroine, but his reasons seem out of the blue - totally off character - and then upon practice of this endeavor he's annoyed all the time. Seemingly annoyed at her. It made no sense. The final straw was all the dialogue beginning with "Oh,..." Page 52 had SIX of them. I can suspend a lot of belief for romance novels, but conversations THAT unnatural pull me from the narrative. I wish I could get my $4 back.

Everyone kept saying that this author was the modern Jane Austen. Ummm I STRONGLY disagree. This is just Harlequin writing with a Regency patina on it. You may love it, but I really do not. I want to like it, but I just couldn't. I only loved Lady Whistledown.

I wish i could have said that i had to buy this book because someone was holding a pistol behind my back...

unfortunately i was taken by stellar reviews, and jumped along with the band wagon.
the story was completely under developed, the lines were redundant, and the pacing of the story was just so off beat.

it was a story that had a lot of potential but did that pull through.

The Duke and I started out as a cute and fun read and I was really liking it, not loving it, but liking it enough to continue that is until I got to the halfway mark. I've tried to think of many possible ways to not include spoilers in my review as to not ruin it for those who have not read it, but it is an impossible task and the book has been out for a few years so why not still my guts?

I want to know where the hell the heroine gets off by raping the hero?! I am really at the point of cursing now but I did enough of that when I was actually reading the book. Thank god I didn't throw my kindle across the room as well. But seriously? Are you kidding me? Since the halfway mark I really couldn't stand Daphane's character anymore. She seriously pissed me off. And she didn't do anything I expect a heroine to do to confort her tortured hero. She failed the, "Things Heroine's Do To Comfort Their Tortured Hero" test.

This book was suppose to be one of those cute stories about Daphane who falls in love with a Duke, Simon who has a tortured past and they fall in love and live happily ever after, with some hot steamy romance added. Nope.

The heroine wasn't the only one I had a problem with. I think Daphane's brother, Anthony was a huge annoyance in the book for me. He was too naggy and way too overprotective that you would've had the impression that Daphane was his daughter. Honestly I thought he was a jerk most of the book. There are probally a million other things I could rant about, but I'll take me leave for now.

Honestly without thinking about the horror of what happened there, the story was very meh. It was okay and good, but it wasn't great. It had great humor and all, but I get the impression these are just short fun reads. I didn't care about the characters a whole lot though. I'm looking for an epic romance in historical romances and this was the complete opposite of epic. I was horrified by what happened in this book.

As an avid Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer fan, I'm always looking for a quality Regency romance. I wish these reviews had warned me to LOOK FURTHER. There are at least three extended sex scenes in this book (I'm talking pages and pages) ... with only the barest of nods to the challenging conventions of the Regency genre. It's no surprise the author is an American ... and a young one at that. Unless soft porn is your thing, re-read some of the real stuff instead.

This is a republication of the book with an epilogue tacked onto the end, this means that the store won't alert you if you have already purchased the original. These books are delightful if you haven't read them but I did not appreciate spending 6$ for a book that I essentially already owned....

The Bridgerton's will steal your heart!

Such a great family: from the mother Violet, who seeks to marry off her children (and does in a most clever way), to Daphne, Anthony, Benedict, Colin and even the younger siblings, every scene with them was a delight to read. and the rest of the brood.

They have such a great relationship!

I admired Anthony for respecting Daphne's wishes and not forcing her to marry. She seeked a marriage of mutual respect and she set about finding it.

Simon was a great hero. He was tortured because of the past and his fathers rejection, he didn't believe he was worthy of love but Daphne showed him the way to happiness.

I loved Daphne. She fought for her happiness, stood up for herself, knew how to manage her meddling brothers and how to make Simon behave.

I loved the banter between the siblings and their mother and I couldn't stop laughing when Violet came to give Daphne "the talk" before her wedding night! Priceless.

Wonderful start to the series, great cast of characters, a pure delight.

Everyone kept saying that this author was the modern Jane Austen. Ummm I STRONGLY disagree. This is just Harlequin writing with a Regency patina on it. You may love it, but I really do not. I want to like it, but I just couldn't. I only loved Lady Whistledown.

I wish i could have said that i had to buy this book because someone was holding a pistol behind my back...

unfortunately i was taken by stellar reviews, and jumped along with the band wagon.
the story was completely under developed, the lines were redundant, and the pacing of the story was just so off beat.

it was a story that had a lot of potential but did that pull through.

As an avid Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer fan, I'm always looking for a quality Regency romance. I wish these reviews had warned me to LOOK FURTHER. There are at least three extended sex scenes in this book (I'm talking pages and pages) ... with only the barest of nods to the challenging conventions of the Regency genre. It's no surprise the author is an American ... and a young one at that. Unless soft porn is your thing, re-read some of the real stuff instead.

This is a republication of the book with an epilogue tacked onto the end, this means that the store won't alert you if you have already purchased the original. These books are delightful if you haven't read them but I did not appreciate spending 6$ for a book that I essentially already owned....

The Bridgerton's will steal your heart!

Such a great family: from the mother Violet, who seeks to marry off her children (and does in a most clever way), to Daphne, Anthony, Benedict, Colin and even the younger siblings, every scene with them was a delight to read. and the rest of the brood.

They have such a great relationship!

I admired Anthony for respecting Daphne's wishes and not forcing her to marry. She seeked a marriage of mutual respect and she set about finding it.

Simon was a great hero. He was tortured because of the past and his fathers rejection, he didn't believe he was worthy of love but Daphne showed him the way to happiness.

I loved Daphne. She fought for her happiness, stood up for herself, knew how to manage her meddling brothers and how to make Simon behave.

I loved the banter between the siblings and their mother and I couldn't stop laughing when Violet came to give Daphne "the talk" before her wedding night! Priceless.

Wonderful start to the series, great cast of characters, a pure delight.

I have a confession to make. I am a Bridgerton virgin and so when I decided to read The Duke and I, I was not prepared to binge read, in this case, binge listen, to the whole series!

What do you mean a VIRGIN?
Well, as much as I am a fan of historical romance, I haven’t read this Julia Quinn series! I know, THE HORROR! In fact, I had not read Julia Quinn until last year when I went to a book signing (a book signing in Lancaster, CA of all places!) and discovered that she is hilarious and amazing in person! While I did not really like her newest series The Rokesby’s even though I read the 2 books in the series: Because of Miss Bridgerton and The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband, I was enchanted by The Duke and I.

What is so enchanting out it?
I have been reading darker historical romances and so I was delightfully surprised to read something that was very lighthearted and sweet! And although The Duke and I didn’t blow me away, I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Not only that, I was laughing out loud while listening to it! Yes, it was that hilarious. Plus, I loved all the Bridgerton siblings! And as someone who does not have any siblings, this book made me want to get one!

It had real issues!
Just because The Duke and I was a lighthearted read, it also dealt with real issues in that it talked about Simon’s affliction. He had a stutter and had been hiding it from everyone since he was three years old. He also had the right kind of broody hero that I liked, too!

But Daphne did something ICKY!
One of my complaints about this book is that Daphne did something despicable to Simon that I think cannot be forgiven that quick! Plus, what she did was just WRONG on so many, MANY levels! If you have read this book, you would know what I am talking about!

I mean, come on! Leaving for about 2 months wasn’t enough! I wanted him to have words with Daphne and tell her what she did was despicable! Also, what he did prior to that was a little bit self-centered of him but he had his reasons (very reasonable IMHO) and Daphne really didn’t. But this wouldn’t have been an immediate issue since they just got married maybe two or three weeks before!

Another annoyance for me was the shotgun wedding aspect to the whole thing. Ick! Yes, they were caught in a compromising situation. Yes, I have read a lot of historical romances that have this trope. But man, has this trope been overdone! Also the second book, The Viscount Who Loved Me has this trope.

The second epilogue is interesting...
The best thing about reading (or listening to) The Duke and I is that The Second Epilogue is now included at the end!

What a lovely surprise! I loved reading about what happened to Daphne and Simon after their HEA! This was definitely a good idea for Julia Quinn to do! In fact, I did not want the second epilogue to end because it was that poignant!

Audiobook was not as bad as I thought
The Duke and I is definitely a book best listened to, in my opinion. I’m not a fan of lighthearted historical romance so it is would be very hard for me to get through this book. Luckily, this book is available in audio format which really helped me zip through the whole thing!

Rosalyn Landor, although not one of my favorite narrators, is pretty good. Not as good as the others, but she actually made listening to the whole book fun. Also, I am not a fan of high pitched feminine voices, so hers was perfect. Her male voices sound a little bit weird, though.

Daphne Bridgerton has a problem.

'sShe beautiful, bright, charming, and everyone's friend. She grew up with four brothers, three of them older than herself, and the gentlemen love to talk with her. They just don't think of her as a romantic prospects, and in her second season, she has received proposals only from the elderly and, in one case, the crashingly stupid. Her mother and her eldest brother, the new Viscount Bridgerton, are not going to compel her to make an unhappy match, and she's in danger of being on the shelf.

The Duke of Hastings has a problem. He's just returned from six years abroad, having recently inherited the title after the death of his hated father. He has no intention of marrying, especially not to produce an heir. He finds himself unable to avoid the social swirl entirely, however, and the concomitant pursuit by mothers and their eligible daughters.

But Viscount Bridgerton is his best friend, and Daphne proves to be apparently the only intelligent young woman attending social events.

Courting her will make Hastings seem less available. Daphne, by apparently being courted by the Duke of Hastings, will immediately look more desirable to other men--hopefully attracting more suitable suitors. It will all be a harmless charade, benefiting them both. What could possibly go wrong?

I really liked Daphne, the Duke, and Daphne's mother and her siblings who are old enough to figure in the story. There are also other interesting characters floating around, including Lady Danbury, and the fictional Lady Whistledown and her entertaining scandal sheet.

It's really a lot of fun. Even in the areas where I thought the story was surely going to go off the rails and become nonsense, it turned out Quinn was doing something a great deal more interesting than I thought. The right kind of surprise!

Recommended.

I bought this audiobook.

The Duke and I was so freaking cute! It has fake courting! My favorite! Daphne comes from a huge family and would like to start a family of her own. Unfortunately, the only men offering her marriage, are not ones that she can see herself with, and she doesn't think they see her as more than a friend either. Meanwhile, Simon has sworn off marriage, but being a duke, all of the mothers are throwing their unwed daughters at him. A hilarious, random meeting brings the two together, and they decide that faking a courtship would be beneficial to them both.

I just loved everybody in The Duke and I! Simon has this tragic backstory that made me want to climb into the pages and hug him. He basically does everything to spite his father, who recently died. But he's smart and funny! Daphne has four brothers, so she's a bit more outspoken and bold than your average society miss. She knows how to handle men, and she won't be put off by Simon's rakish persona. And her family is hilarious! She has seven siblings and her mother, and everybody loves everybody and are a little overprotective. There's just so much love oozing off these pages! And banter! Everybody banters!

Daphne and Simon are super cute together! I loved how they spent time together and actually had conversations. There wasn't quite enough of their fake relationship for me at the beginning, but I enjoyed the scenes that were there very much. The tone of The Duke and I does change about midway through when Simon does agree to marry Daphne after a failed duel. Of course, she has to learn about his childhood and how awful his father was to him. Daphne also finds out the real reason Simon won't have children. There is a very troublesome and uncomfortable scene in regards to that. Daphne does realize later that she shouldn't have done it, but it still made me squirm. It's also the reason I didn't give five stars.

Aside from that one questionable scene, I loved The Duke and I! I can't believe that I waited so long to read it! Not only does it use my all-time favorite trope, but it's an amazing start to this series. I found that I really like, or am curious about, all of Daphne's siblings who will be the stars of the following books. I also loved her mother and can't wait to see more of her meddling!

4.5 "When Love Becomes A Family Affair" Stars for the Story and Narration!

First published in 2000, The Duke and I is a historical romance classic. I had been hearing about how good this story was (and indeed the whole series) for years, so when I was offered an opportunity to review the audiobook rendition by veteran narrator, Rosalyn Landor, I jumped at the chance. And what an experience it was. Reminding me somewhat of a Georgette Heyer title (The Grand Sophy) in its witty, comical family inter-relationships but loaded with a good bit more of romance, The Duke and I is a treasure of a historical romance that is guaranteed entertainment for hours. As an additional bonus, listeners are treated to a second epilogue, which is included for free in this book (but which was first included in a later edition of the book). Moreover, the expert narration by Ms. Landor makes this a title that even if you read it long ago is definitely worth re-experiencing in audio format.

Raised by a father who despised him for not being perfect (Simon was unable to speak until 4 and then only did so for years with a stutter), and having lost his mother in childbirth (after a heart-breaking inordinate amount of miscarriages to "comply with her wifely duties of producing an heir" for the Duke of Hastings who never even loved her); Simon has never known love. It is no wonder therefore that he has vowed retribution for all the neglect his father dealt him, by denying his father, even if he has now passed on, the only thing that ever mattered to him--an heir to carry on Duke of Hastings' name. With his cousins having produced only daughters, Simon is determined to never have children (and therefore also marry)--the Duke of Hastings' line will die with him!

Then he meets Daphne Bridgerton, the fourth of eight siblings, cleverly named in alphabetical order. Daphne is the sister of Simon's school friends Anthony, Benedict, and Colin. Daphne is the quintessential man's "friend." Though incredibly well liked, and being a few seasons into the marriage market, she still has to land a proposal she actually wants to accept (a mission her mother, Violet, takes incredibly seriously). The only rationale is that everyone sees her as a friend, and without competition vying for her attentions, she is still on the shelf, though she would like to marry and have children someday.

Of course, when Daphne and Simon meet they hit it off--much to Daphne's brother's (especially her alpha, older brother Anthony's) chagrin. Being that they know his determination not to marry (and reputation as a rake--a fact that even the ton gossip columnist writes about), they are resolute in stopping any type of courting between the two. However, when Daphne and Simon hatch a mutual beneficial plan (one that will rouse the interest of other marriage suitors for her and keep the determined match-making mothers away from him), their alliance continues and Daphne becomes surer and surer that she has finally found the "right one" for her. But can Daphne ever convince Simon to embrace life and love with her rather than allow the specter of his father's spirit to rule his actions in revenge and hate?

Rosalyn Landor is a pro at narrating historical romance. I love her ability to create so many distinct and distinguishable female characters. Her voicing, for Daphne in particular, was completely on point with her personality which really brought the book to life for me.

Ms. Landor also creates a deeper, more masculine voice for Simon and the other male characters (though her male characters have a more similar sound to one another). Ms. Landor had her work cut out for her with this book in that Simon occasionally suffers from a stutter. However, Ms. Landor performed even this speech impediment with expert precision. I also love how Ms. Landor can always make you feel the mood of the scene she is reading.

All in all this was a delightful historical romance that had me in stitches laughing as well sad at the injustices that the hero had to bear at different points in time. One of the aspects I loved the most about this novel is the close and dynamic familial relationships that Ms. Quinn has laid the foundation for in this debut of the Bridgertons Series. Now I can't wait to listen to more books in is series to see how each of the eight Bridgerton sibling achieves their HEA!

Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.

Title: The Duke and I
Author: Julia Quinn
Genre: Historical (Regency) Romance
Year: 2000
Rating: 4 stars

Without going into spoilers, there is some things in the story that may push the wrong button for some people. I did cringe during the scene after their married when Simon is drunk. Daphne wakes up first, gets an idea into her head and acts on it before really thinking about it. But this didn’t bother me as much as the duel before they were married.

---- spoilers ----
Simon, Anthony and Benedict had hours to really think about what they were about to do and the consequences, but still they were planning to go through with it! Simon was prepared and even expected to die. Do these morons even take one second to relies what happens after the duel is done?! Lets see: Simon died. Anthony would have to abandon his family and responsibilities and flee the country for murdering a duke in an illegal duel. Daphne marked as a whore, at this point their not even sure if anyone saw Daphne and Simon kissing and that her reputation may still be safe! I’m sure that if Daphne’s brother and the man who’d been courting her were to have a duel that people would assume, rightly so, it had to have something to do with her!
---- spoilers end ----

Even so this is still a keeper for me. The rest of the series is now on my to read list.

Bridgerton Family series…
1) The Duke and I
2) The Viscount Who Loved Me
3) An Offer from a Gentleman
4) Romancing Mister Bridgerton
5) To Sir Phillip, With Love
6) When He Was Wicked
7) It’s In His Kiss
8) On the Way to the Wedding

3 helms

Please follow me on my blog :) Review originally posted on <a href="http://www.vellumvoyages.com">Vellum Voyages</a>

Ahh, the Bridgertons! I have heard so much about this family! This is my first foray into the Bridgertons as I’m a bit of a stickler for reading a family series in order so I had to wait till I obtained all the books. I’m not new to Julia Quinn, I have read “Dancing at Midnight” but I cannot remember what I actually thought about “DatM” to be honest! It’s still sitting on my shelf so I think a re-read is in order pretty soon.

I have mixed feelings about the D&I. I didn’t hate it but I didn’t love it like I thought I would & yes I lowered my expectations! It was definitely an easy and light read. My latest reads have been quite heavy in terms of plot twists so it was refreshing to have a story focus on the relationship between the characters.

Daphne Bridgerton & Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings hatch a plan for a fake engagement as Daphne is already onto her third season & Simon just having inherited his dukedom is the perfect catch of the season. Of course the pretence becomes a little too real and both of them find themselves married with a few bumps along the way! Daphne is very likeable & Simon has his own demons to deal with so the characters have a few issues to overcome before the “L” word gets dropped.

The D&I annoyed me in a few places mainly due to the historical inaccuracies & vernacular rather than the characters. Modern words like “ouch” were used, which kept mentally jerking me from Regency England to Modern America in some chapters. Lady Whistledown also mentions a “diamond solitaire ring” in her gossip column which again reminded me of Tiffany & Co. from America & the diamond revolutionising De Beers rather than Regency England. By no means is the D&I a wallbanger but these little anachronisms just jarred me back to reality when I was looking for some escapism. Julia Quinn also states on Good Reads that she writes “costume dramas- books in which the characters are entirely fictional and the actual politics of the time do not play a major role in the story” (Taken from Q&A ) which is very noticeable when you are a few chapters into the book. For example, Daphne punches Simon in the jaw when they first meet which is highly unlikely to happen in straightlaced Regency England & I found the whole scenario slapstick rather than amusing. Daphne’s traits are very feminist which I applaud & always a fan of but sometimes I found it a bit forced.

The Bridgertons as a family are just lovely! We meet Violet the matriarchal Bridgerton & are also introduced to the rest of clan, mainly the brothers Anthony & Colin. Be prepared to like them all and start looking forward to their own stories! Anachronisms, historical inaccuracies, the Americanisation of Regency England & the slapstick scenes aside, the book is an overall enjoyable read as I was often with a smile on my face. I do look forward to reading about the rest of the family and will definitely keep reading more from Julia Quinn.

Till the next book voyage!

This review was originally going to be a 4 star for me. I was enjoying the book but there were some downfalls that didn’t quite make it a 5 star:
1. The story line was underdeveloped and not what it was meant to be. The point for the faux courtship from the Duke Simon to bring on suitors for Daphne, and it worked….once. Only once did the book show that suitors started to swarm after her. Then after that, it just stopped, but the hero and heroine continued with the courtship. It was always focused on them and never about other suitors trying to approach Daphne which was the point of what the hero and heroine trying to do.
2. Brothers were overly protective of Daphne and it was annoying. The author could have toned it down a bit, I mean I understand protective brothers but these guys are willing to kill a human being for Daphne! That serious protectiveness… almost scary if you think about it. As a psychology minor student, that doesn’t down like a healthy attachment to someone’s sister.
3. Daphne knew NOTHING about sex…. And I mean nothing! I understand innocence but I can’t believe that a person could be that sheltered plus being part of the educated upper class and not even know the basic parts of males and females.
4. The atmosphere really changed from the first half of the book to the second half of the book and so did the characters.

Okay, now the reason I actually rated this book a 3 star. There was some serious things that happened that left a bad taste in my mouth:
1. Daphne took advantage of Simon while he was intoxicated so she could get pregnant… THAT IS NOT OKAY! That’s rape, and if that was a man doing that to a woman, I’m sure there would be a lot of outrage about it. Clearly, no one picked up on this as being rape in the book from all those who gave this a 5 star as if there was nothing fundamentally wrong with the book. To me, rape is something fundamentally WRONG, whether it’s the hero or heroine doing it. I hate when people over see male date-rape as something that’s not serious, it is and it’s NOT okay.
2. Author talked a lot about controlling and owning people. I understand women were seen as property during this time and I can accept that historical aspect but when the author constantly brings it up, it really put a sour taste in my mouth that makes me question if this is really true love. Control and possessiveness is not romantic and it can be very dangerous. It also doesn’t equate to love, if someone really loved another, they don’t feel the need to own or control another person. Even Daphne expresses her excitement of controlling Simon when he’s drunk by taking advantage of his vulnerable state and raping him. The author expresses it as ‘this time Daphne had full control of him…’ this does not look like love to me.
So overall, the story was cute, I liked it, I just wished it was more developed and showed more of what Simon and Daphne were trying to accomplish from there fake attachment with each other. Also, all that control and possessiveness could have been toned down… A LOT. I don’t mind reading about rape, it’s a fact of life that is unfortunate but does happen. HOWEVER! When it is between the heroine and hero that are supposed to love each other, it really angers me because rape is not romantic! It’s not pretty, it’s not innocent, it’s not done out of love or complete lack of “control” because they “need/love” the other so much, and it should NEVER BE ROMANTICIZED. It is awful and that is why it really ruined my full enjoyment of the novel.

However, I don’t believe it deserved a 1 or 2 star. The H/H had good chemistry together and there was a lot of fun humour in the book. I enjoy the dialogueI and the Mother was a riot! It would have beed a really fun, good read if it were not for the taking advantage of and the amount of control in the novel. I will be reading the other books of this series and hope for a better experience.

I don't read a lot of historical romance but this series was recommended to me a couple of times so I thought I'd give it a try and I'm really glad I did because I very much enjoyed it. Although I loved the first half more than the second.

Simon was an interesting and wonderful character with a tragic youth. His emotional torment from childhood was well written but not too much. He was such a compelling character and you couldn't help but root for a happy ending for him. Daphne was a good match for Simon and I loved their chemistry and the fun and witty banter between them. I have to say I did have a bit of an issue with one of Daphne's actions <spoiler>she took advantage of Simon in a way that wasn't okay to me and I never really felt like she accepted responsibility for it - she had more of a the ends justifies my actions which didn't sit well with me. While I understood her I didn't like it and it left me feeling a bit negatively towards her character</spoiler>.

I loved the Bridgerton family as a whole and the family dynamics where fun to read about. There was just enough romance and humor in this book to make it thoroughly enjoyable and I look forward to the next one in the series.

Julia Quinn is often described as writing light and fluffy historical romances. this is neither light nor fluffy.

I enjoyed the first half of the book, although a lot of the plot points that were played as being bonkers/ridiculous were actually kind of disturbing (older brother is so protective he’s a psycho, mother cannot bear to explain “marital relations” to the heroine, etc). middle third dragged. AND THEN.

(spoilers ahead, but ones you need to know before you decide to read this book):

It was a bit of a red flag when, during a big argument about the fact that the hero doesn’t want children, the hero basically threatens spousal rape. (they both “know” he wouldn’t really do it, but that’s not something someone in a loving relationship should EVER say).

I had to stop reading when, a few pages later, the heroine starts having sex with the hero when he is drunk AND asleep and then forces him to come inside her because he’s too disoriented to resist once he is sort of awake. This is not consensual, it’s disgusting, and I had to stop reading because i don’t *want* the heroine and hero to end up together. they are both kind of terrible.

" The Duke and I" is the first volume of the Bridgertons series, and is also my first reading of this author .
This story captivated me from the beginning. It's written intelligently and wittily . Show us all the experiences of the balls of the ton and the squemes to achieve a wedding. Both Daphne and Simon are very well done as characters. Impartiality is impossible during the reading because we end up really enjoying the two them. Dafne is a mixture of innocence with a tomboy. And Simon is just spectacular. Oh .. I would fall for Simon !
I read on Goodreads that there is an erotic scene that people were too sensitive about. When Daphne takes advantage of the fact that Simon is drunk to try to get pregnant of him. I did not find it very shocking scene. It is not very different from when a woman stops taking the pill without telling her partner because she want to get pregnant. It doesntt make Daphne attitude the correct one, but I think this was really Quinn's idea when she described it.
Finally, I loved that I didn't get to find out the contents of the letters from Simon's father. I liked that he would heal without the redemption of someone who treated him so badly.
An excellent historical novel .

I just realized that I have every book Julia Quinn ever wrote and I'm not sure I ever did a review. I don't think she needs me for success but she deserves every shout out she gets. I really enjoy her lighthearted and thought provoking stories. This one about a young boy growing up with a strangling strutter and being made to feel less by the one who should love him but growing up to be everything he should in spite of it all. Ms. Quinn doesn't keep us in a sad place but moves us forward to introduce Simon, The Duke of Hastings to Daphe Bridgerton, who is his best friends little sister. Simon doesn't want to marry but the mama's of the ton are making him crazy because of his wealth and title. So him and his friends sister pretend to be courting. Daphe not being very beautiful but passing is sweet and kind but after people assume the Duke wants her the gentlemen change their minds. Simon starts to want Daphne for real but Anthony is his friend and Daphne is an innocent that wants Simon too but she has a little bit naughty. The Bridgerton series is a wonderful sweet breath of fresh air in regency books. I hate giving spoilers but you have a hunky panty melting Duke that needs to realize his Duchess is right in front of his eyes.

The Duke of Hastings, Simon Bassett as just returned to London because his father has passed away and the time has come to claim his title. Simon intends to keep life very low key, staying away from the ton because he decided long ago he did not wish to get married and have children. Unfortunately for him he attends one social function and finds that he will not easily escape mothers who are set on finding their daughters a husband nor his friends wives who wish to see their single sisters married to a duke. One of these daughters is Daphne Bridgerton, oldest daughter of the eight Bridgerton children. Lady Bridgerton insists on introducing poor Daphne to every eligible bachelor but the men tend to see her as friend not a wife or lover. On a very fateful night Simon happens to meet Daphne in a most inappropriate situation which is further complicated because Daphne is Simon's best friend's sister (Anthony, eldest of the Bridgerton children). Together Simon and Daphne hitch a ridiculous plan to pretend they are dating thus making Daphne seem less like a friend and more like a wife and keeping the women away from Simon. What they did not count on was their mutual attraction.

The plot for this book was silly and yet oddly refreshing. Silly because their plan is just a disaster waiting to happen. Of course we have the tragic hero with the terrible past and the witty heroine who is full of love looking for the chance to create a warm loving home. The refreshing part of this story is the characters had real problems and they were not over contrived. I do think a man who has spent his entire life in fear of his stuttering problem, an absent father and a mother who died before he even knew her would have some emotional issues that his friends would not be aware of. Just as likely a woman who grew up in a secure home would probably believe that love can conquer anything. Ms. Quinn did a great job surprising me at their reactions to each other. At times I thought really did you think this would be the best way to handle this situation, but I appreciate that because in real life we often react the wrong way, sometimes even making things worse before they are better. This I found refreshing and I really appreciated the humor in keeping things light.

For me it was a great book because I cared about the characters, I cursed at them for making stupid choices and acting without thinking. I laughed at their wit and cried (ok felt really kind of sad) when they hurt. This I think is what makes a great romance novel and I cannot wait to read the next one.

First in the Bridgerton Family historical romance series revolving around the eight Bridgerton children Lady Bridgerton intends to marry off.

My Take
While not adhering rigidly to the time period, Quinn stays faithful for the most part to the time period as she explores the hurt a parent can inflict on a child.

Although Quinn starts with a old cliché--the besieged young man who suggests throwing all the marriage-minded mamas off the scent by pretending an interest in each other, it does turn into a cute story with a strongminded young woman who can't believe he'd be interested in her. A consideration that Quinn does make believable.

I was annoyed at the next major cliché...the "oh you lied to me" bit. Please. Simon did not lie, she misinterpreted and, in the arrogance of youth and women, assumed she could change him to suit her wishes.

I did enjoy Daphne's comment: "It's the curse of motherhood. You're required to love us even when we vex you." Lady Danbury has a good one as well: "It'd be a waste of a good mind if you were shackled to that nitwit...and the good
Lord knows that the ton can't afford to waste the few good minds we've got."

Certainly mama is doing her best to vex her children with her lists of eligibles. Anthony has his list to survey just as Daphne has hers.

Some nice touches in here with Simon's consideration of Violet and his observations about the newly interested suitors around Daphne. I also enjoyed the short explanation of how Greenwich became the starting point for longitude. Very interesting and perfectly sensible.

Awww, it's so sweet about the kiss at the altar. Hyacinth makes a lovely observation about it.

It does get rather drama-y, but then it never does claim to be a serious novel. What I particularly enjoyed about this story was the enjoyment Simon and Daphne have in each other's company. They're both intelligent people with a similar sense of humor and I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series, .

The Story
Young Simon is already four and he still hasn't spoken. At least, not until he's threatened with a beating if he doesn't. The result does not please his perfection-minded father and Simon does not see his father for seven more years and still does not impress him.

As far as Simon is concerned, that's it. He will no longer try. Although, subconsciously, everything he does turns to it. Acclaimed by his peers, sought out by everyone, he shuns the father who suddenly discovers who his son really is.
When he finally returns to England, it's to run into the one roadblock in life he had vowed to avoid--marriage. Between the mamas and their eligible, duke-minded daughters, Simon feels trapped and proposes a scheme to the sister of his best friend.

We all know how this will turn out, it's simply a question of the path...

The Characters
Simon Arthur Henry Fitzranulph Basset starts life as Earl Clyvedon. A courtesy title he will hold until his father finally dies and he becomes the tenth Duke of Hastings. He's done his best to be the very opposite of what he believed his father wanted. Anthony Bridgerton is his best friend. Nurse Hopkins who does her best to be mother and teacher to this abandoned little boy. Mrs. Colson is the current-day housekeeper with some interesting bits of history about Simon.

Daphne is the fourth in the line-up of siblings in the Bridgerton family. It's easy to remember as the viscount and viscountess named their children alphabetically: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth. Another reason to look forward to reading this series as the family is lively with an intelligent mother, Violet, who has a sense of humor. Daphne is almost on the shelf and, although she has received four offers, she shudders to consider them. She's bright, witty, funny, and kind. Easy to talk to and very understanding. Just...just not what one is looking for in a wife. Until Simon takes an interest.

Lady Whistledon is the name of a gossip columnist with a clever marketing idea. Her comments start off most chapters, providing a subtle summary of what to expect.

Nigel Berbrooke is a particularly persistent suitor. It's too bad he's so dim. Lady Danbury is famed for her cutting wit. Thankfully, she likes both Simon and Daphne.

The Cover
The cover is p-i-n-k. There is no question that this is a romance novel with all that pink tinting the hill with its cluster of building and trees as a carriage drives across the bottom.

The title isn't particularly inventive even though simple and honest. It is The Duke and I in this first pairing in the series.

Talk about starting off a book and a series by making me love a young Simon immediately as we get a few snippets of his childhood told during the prologue. His mother died during child birth and all his father wanted was an heir; a perfect mini-me version of himself. He got Simon, a sweet young boy who didn't speak until he was 4 years old, and struggled to overcome stammering. His father, mortified that his heir wasn't perfect, called him every name imaginable, stupid, idiot, he threatened to beat the stammering out of him...when Simon was only 4 years old. My heart went out to Simon and as he grew up, his own hatred towards his estranged father drove him to overcome his struggles with speech and when he became a successful, bright, well liked young man, he and his father were never able to repair the damage that was done before his father passes away. Simon swears off ever getting married or having children, especially having an heir of his own because it's exactly what his father would have wanted for their family's legacy.

On the flip side of the coin is Daphne. She grew up in a large family, full of love and laughter, with older and younger siblings to play and fight with; she grew up surrounded by people who cared about her. The family dynamic in any series always draws me in and the Bridgerton's had me laughing out loud through the whole book. Each sibling has their own very distinct personality and we get to see them all throughout Daphne's story. I love the easy playfulness and banter between them, and the way that Simon, in his own way, fits right in.

Simon and Daphne strike a deal - Simon is already tired of mothers trying to marry their daughters off to him, and Daphne is tired of being seen as only a "friend" to the male sex and they decide that if Simon acts as though he's interested in Daphne, it'll (hopefully) help keep the mothers from bothering him so much. While Daphne hopes that having Simon show an interest in her brings more potential suitors to her door, men who would finally start to see her as more than just friend material.

**********
"I'm quite immune to your games."

"Oh?"

She gave his arm a reassuring pat. "But yours was a most admirable attempt. And truly, I'm quite flattered you thought me worthy of such a magnificent display of dukish rakishness." She grinned, her smile wide and unfeigned. "Or do you prefer rakish dukishness?"

Simon stroked his jaw thoughtfully, trying to regain his mood of menacing predator. "You're a most annoying little chit, did you know that, Miss Bridgerton?"

She gave him her sickliest of smiles. "Most people find me the soul of kindness and amiability."

"Most people," Simon said bluntly, "are fools."
**********

As these two get closer and become friends, they find themselves in a compromising position that forces Anthony, Daphne's older brother, to challenge Simon to a duel, which then forces Daphne to intervene which ultimately results in their marriage. I loved the timing of this, it happens around the mid-point of the book, and things are very bumpy for this couple. While Simon gives in to his no marriage rule, he holds strong against wanting kids. Daphne can't imagine a life without children, but she loves Simon, and they struggle at first, at one point being separated for 2 months by choice. I did knock a little bit off my final rating because in one scene, Daphne refuses to take into consideration Simon's beliefs and wants about having children and has sex with him when he's drunk and not in his right mind. It's ultimately a selfish act and Simon, rightfully so, feels betrayed and this leads to their 2 month separation. But once they're back together, Daphne helps Simon finally start to let go of all the anger he had toward his father and he starts to look at life differently.

I love, love, love all the different sides to Simon that we see. He's a charming, smart man on the outside, who tends to not let too many people get close. But with Daphne, he lets himself be vulnerable and lets his guard down so he's finally able to deal with all the feelings he's kept inside for so many years. To balance out some of the heaviness of Simon's story, the humor and laughs that Daphne, her brothers and the whole Bridgerton family provide, makes this a completely charming story, and I can't wait to read more about each sibling.

Blog Rating: 4.5/5

I'm not quite sure when I stumbled on Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series, or how, but I can say that I'm glad that I did. "The Duke and I" is a wonderful novel, not just for those that enjoy historical romance, but for anyone that likes a good story.

Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings, has an awful stutter that caused him to be the bane of his father's existence as well as erect a wall of defense against those that may unjustly view his stutter as a deficiency. He has crafted an aloof demeanor for everyone and has decided that due to his stutter and his hatred for his late father, he will forego marriage and children so that his dukedom will end with him.

Daphne Bridgerton, one of many daughters in the extremely close Bridgerton family, meets Simon when she attempting to thwart a too close-for-comfort suitor and the two find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other--even though they're both working against it. They marry, but the story doesn't end and there are plenty of laughs along the way.

Like her other novels, Julia Quinn crafted wonderful characters in a story that has been written many times, yet she makes it her own and draws the reader in from the onset of the novel. I laughed a majority of the novel and was thoroughly entertained by the other Bridgerton family members as well as the notorious and anonymous Lady Whistledown.

I would definitely recommend this novel! I enjoyed it so much on my Kindle that I ordered a hardback version.

I don't know why I put off reading this series for so long. I'd heard really great things about it and it sounded right up my alley. After reading a series of only so so historicals, I decided to start The Duke & I. Just a tip for those who haven't read it - be smarter than me and don't start reading this book after midnight. Because if you do, you'll probably end up staying up until 4:30am trying to finish it before succumbing to sleep.

What can I say except that I loved this book? Simon and Daphne were both fantastic characters and I fell in love with both of them. Simon, intense and brooding, is still living in the shadow of his father's disdain. I really felt for Simon and the damage that his father caused. I felt sad for the little boy that Simon was once and I fell in love with the man that he became. Bright and gregarious, Daphne is the perfect match for Simon. She doesn't allow him to be too serious and her intelligence is a match for his. Their rapport was immediate and I enjoyed their quick banter. I truly felt like they had an emotional connection that had me, as a reader, fully invested in their relationship.

I had so much fun getting to know the entire Bridgerton clan. The large, loving, and extremely boisterous family made me laugh with their antics. All of the Bridgerton men sound quite dashing and I want to know more about them. I also enjoyed Lady Danbury and the gossip pieces by Lady Whistledown at the beginning of every chapter.

This is my first Julia Quinn book and won't be my last. I enjoyed her writing and the dialogue especially. The book was surprisingly funny and there was a good mix of humor, romance, and angst. The writing seemed very modern, which is unusual in historical novels, but I liked it. The book flowed really well and, as I said, I stayed up half the night because I could not stop reading. The Duke & I is one of my new favorites and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the Bridgerton series.

The Duke and I
Reviewed by Ann(Under the Covers Book Blog)

I have been ruined by Lisa Kleypas and all her wonderful historical that until now, I couldn't find an author who could live up to the Kleypas craze. Julia Quinn is the answer.

THE DUKE AND I is such a charming story of Daphne and Simon! The story captured me with its prologue. It starts off with a story of a vulnerable young boy and his prideful father who wished to have the perfect heir. When he learns that his son has a speech impediment, he deems him as defective and unworthy to love, shunning him from his life and love. The boy grows up, wondering what he has done to make his father hate him so much, harbouring an anger towards him that grows with each year.

Years later, Simon Basset has learned to overcome his stutter and is now the Duke of Hastings, making him a sought-after bachelor. Simon is such a great hero. I loved him from the moment he stepped on the page. There's just something about him that lures you in. He has secrets that make you want to keep reading until they are revealed. And, not to mention, he's quite the seducer as well.

I don't blame Daphne for falling so hard for him. Daphne is the eldest daughter of the Bridgeton family, making her a prime target for her brother's overprotective tendencies. But Daphne is a strong woman and is able to handle situations on her own. I loved the strength that she showed throughout this book. There is nothing better than a strong heroine who isn't afraid to stand up to her man (and her brothers).

What I love about historical romance is the lightness and charming nature of the stories. I found it very difficult to find another author who possessed that effortless wit that Lisa has in her writing, but after reading this I found that Quinn is just as capable of doing this. She manages to weave stories that are full of heart and passion but still making it light-hearted and fun.

I loved the idle banter between the Bridgeton siblings! They are such a fantastic family and I can't wait to read the next few books of this series. I have no doubt that the Bridgeton will charm me completely. I am so glad I picked this series up!

I have been a fan of Julia Quinn's novels for quite some time. I am a sucker for historical romance; there's just something about Regency gentleman and the idea that city-wide scandal that can result from a kiss. It's absolutely fantastic.

I love the Bridgerton's. They are a large family, a widowed mother with eight children named alphabetically. They are a really close family and according to society mothers, blessed in the looks department. It's similar to Jane Austen in that society mothers love to get their children marry attractive people with money.

I love Daphne and Simon, separately and as a couple. I also love that Quinn started the series by writing from the perspective of the 4th Bridgerton child. Daphne and Simon are both stubborn and tenacious and perfectly suited for each other but they just don't see it. They pretend to be engaged so that they don't have to deal with society mothers trying to get them to marry other people. Naturally, hilarity ensues.

It was moving, romantic, heartbreaking, funny...you feel ALL THE THINGS when reading Julia Quinn. Oh, and of course there are sexytimes. You don't get that from Jane Austen. (Though I have heard that there have been some rumblings of people rewriting the classics like Jane Eyre to include sexytimes. Does anyone know if this is true?)

Anyway, this is a great read for fans of historical romance. Or those who believe that chivalry isn't dead. I can't wait to finish out the series.

I have to agree with the reviewer named Em. I'm not normally a fan of Harlequin type romances as I find that sex is too often used to compensate for lack of good writing, story, and/or character development. This book wasn't published by Harlequin but it's essentially that type of novel (though the sex scenes were only average in steaminess).

I bought this book based on the stellar reviews here on the store so I had great expectations. Now I'm left to wonder whether most of the readers here normally read REALLY bad novels in order to rate this one so highly. I'd heard of Julia Quinn and know she is a top seller but this is the first book I've read from her. On the cover of the book, there's a blurb from The Times that says, "Smart, funny!" While there are snippets in the story that are mildly amusing and mildly witty, I wouldn't really go so far as to use those 2 adjectives when describing this novel.

I can see where the author intended to be funny. She gives the Bridgerton family a very informal personality. They're all the opposite of "high in the instep." While I suppose this is intended to make them more likable to the readers (and they are likable--just not, oh I don't know, believable?), they don't seem to belong to the era in which the story takes place. It's like they're a modern day family.

The prologue was the best chapter. It was full of heart and sincerity. I actually teared up reading it. And then the actual story began and it was.....eh.

I didn't particularly feel any affinity for Daphne, the heroine. There was nothing to dislike about her (except her annoying habit of responding with an "Oh." She must've said "oh" 7-8 times during the book and while that may not seem like very many, it actually is within the confines of a single novel. The first time it was endearing. The second time it was sorta cute. After that, it just became repetitious and old.). And while I didn't dislike Daphne, I didn't really like her enough to be interested in her at all.

Simon, the hero, started off with potential. A handsome rake of a duke (do ALL the men in this type of novel have to be rakes?? I love a rake as much as the next girl but that gets old too) with a stuttering problem. I love a man with a flaw. But that's about as interesting as he got. The actual dialogue, character development, even his relationship with Daphne, made him no more likable or sympathetic beyond that.

Violet Bridgerton, the mother of the clan, was amusing. Colin, one of the brothers, was actually more interesting to me than Simon. As far as the young women went, I found myself more curious about Penelope Featherington, the young maiden whose mother kept dressing in inappropriate colors, and Hyacinth Bridgerton, the youngest child of the family. And of course Lady Whistledown stole the show.

In the end, I really didn't care too much about the couple. There just wasn't that draw, that emotional impact or investment that authors like Carla Kelly and Mary Balogh seem to be able to infuse into their stories and characters. Not a bad book (I did finish reading it, which I don't manage to do with some), but definitely not one I'd want to pick up again.

I expected this book to be a keeper but sadly, it goes into the "to be traded/resold" pile. I bought 2 other books from the same series that I have yet to read and I hope they do a better job of living up to all the reviews.

Based on the reviews, this book is way overrated. I will say it is refreshing to have a regency heroine who doesn't swoon at the sight of the hero or immediately become a stammering idiot when a man talks to her. Instead, she actually holds her own and acts like a normal human being. How novel!! And I did really enjoy how obnoxiously overprotective her family is of her. It's adorable. There is really nothing wrong with the hero either - he seems like a well developed character and you truly do feel for him and understand his stance on things.

My problem with this book, however, is that it isn't particularly romantic. You don't get the impression that the characters really love each other. They truly do marry out of duty, and while there is passion between them, there really isn't much else. I honestly couldn't wait for it to end. It really drags on and on and there was just way too much angst for me.

Overall, it was fine. But 5 stars? Really? C'mon!

As a side note to the author - I think it really sucks that you didn't tell us what those letters said. It was a huge gap in the plot.

Julia Quinn did an amazing job writing by pulling readers into her story. The book starts off with Simon. His farther wanted a perfect son but when Simon was four and still couldnt speak the old man thought to force the issue by giving a beating when Simon spoke up. He said no but then began to tutter so bad his father thought he was stupid, so he claimed he didn't have a son. Simon studies hard and proves very intelligent and goes off to Oxford. Years latter after his father passes on he returns to London and takes his place as the Duke of Hastings even though he loaths his fathers name. He comes apon Daphne and finds her very attractive but when he finds out she's the sister of his best friends from school he knows that she's off limits. Daphne enjoys the dukes company and they soon hatch a plan. Since the duke never wants to marry, but is being pressured by single lady's and Daphne who is eagerly wanting to marry but is not sought after as a love interest choose to help each other out. The duke disides to court her, so that the single ladies will see that hes taken and the single men wanting to have what the duke has start to take notice to Daphne, however, they soon take things a bit to far and Daphne brother forces them to marry or face a duel.
It's a very interesting and orginal story but I couldn't give it five stars because I didn't really feel a strong connection with the characters. I felt they were friends most of the book. I wanted more of a passion or more interest beyond friendship. I fell like I only saw glimpses of any passion for each other. I thought the story was well written and I am planning on continuing on with the series but I couldn't give the book five stars because of those reasons.

Wow. What a difference a few years can make when reading a book. The first time i read "The Duke and I" i was 16 years old. I was young, innocent, and naive. I couldn't get enough of romance books.And i just adored every single Julia Quinn book i could get my hands on. Eleven years later, a grown single woman, i find myself still loving the book. Loved the book so much in fact that except for the first 20 pages i read it all in one afternoon/evening sitting. I haven't done that in a very very long time. Even with the most recent books i've jadored it's taken me 2-3 days to finish a book. I definitely think there is something to be said about the romances that were coming out in the early 2000's.

In this book, Julia introduces us to the famous "Bridgerton" family. One of the families I automatically connect in my mind with romance. Daphne is the eldest daughter of the family and after two seasons without a decent proposal is starting to lose hope. That doesn't deter her mother, Violet, from trying though. And so she is introduced to bachelor after bachelor. Every ball and party. Daphne knows the truth of things though. She is the "girl next store". The girl every man likes to chat with, but doesn't see as marriageable match. The ones that do she's rather didn't. Then she meets her brother Anthony's old friend and all that changes....

Simon is your typical hero in many ways. He's a Duke. Rich. Tall, dark, and handsome. And he has some issues. Big daddy ones and a surprisely stammering/stuttering problem that he's dealt with all his life. His goal on returning to England was to avoid society as much as possible. After all. He had no plans to marry or have children so why should he become involved. Yet society doesn't feel the same way about him and of course he gets tangled into it. At an event hosted by Lady Dansbury, Simon finds himself in a position that was more than he bargained for. He was quite happy to help out his friend Anthony's sister; he was not happy about becoming the newest catch to hit the ton. So he makes a bargain with Daphne. They'll pretend to form a attachment so that she may attract more men and he attract less women. If only Simon didn't start wishing the attachment wasn't fake...

On the topic of the two main characters i loved Simon. I've had to deal with speech issues all my life and found myself commiserating with him a lot. It was nice to have a character voice the issues that those of use who have trouble with certain sounds and words go through. It was far easier for me to connect with him than Daphne. Daphne on the other hand had some moments where i found myself wanting to hit her. The most being when she had sex with him when he was drunk because she wanted his sperm. I did not mistype that. Now that really didn't bother me when i was younger, but looking at it now i does bother me some. It was cruel of her to do so and in a way a bit violating. Yet the issue was never discussed in great length. It was merely shoved under the rug later when Simon basically says, not in these words, he could have stopped her if he wanted to. Something i'm not entirely sure of. If the character was fine with it i'll let it be since it wasn't rape and he doesn't entirely doing "it" against his will.

Together, Daphne and Simon work out quite well. They bounced right off of each other and could roll with things. Mostly.

Before i end this i should probably mention this story was the first appearance of Lady Whistledown. A brilliant creation of Julia's especially when you look at the whole series at once.

Final rating. 4 1/2, but i'll give it a 5 here. I only had one issue with the book and it was what i discussed above.

This wasn't the first Bridgerton book I read but as soon as I'd read the other one, I knew I had to read them ALL. So I began in chronological order. The Duke and I is absolutely marvellous. Simon is both funny and endearing and of course he's very much a Duke, you cant miss that. Daphne Bridgerton is my second favourite Bridgerton sister, the favourite being Hyacinth. Daphne is smart and the encounters between her and Simon are hilarious and romantic at the same time, but there's Julia Quinn for you. She pulls this off in every book! Love this writer.
Simon's dark childhood overshadows his life. He doesn't want to marry. Yet, he cannot resist Daphne. The shadows linger and Daphne must fight them alongside Simon. However, as circumstances would have it, the Duke must choose between being honourable and being honourable. What's the choice? Read the book and find out. Although the books can be read separately, it's so much more satisfying reading them in order. Start with this. You'll love the Bridgertons.

...with Julia Quinn's books.

Her books makes me laugh, sigh, smile, cry and stay up for hours needing to find out what happens next! I found this book after reading some of Ms. Quinn's most recent works, THE LOST DUKE OF WYNDHAM and JUST LIKE HEAVEN. Both were great; really showcased her witty and fun style, but after reading her earlier works, I am completely HOOKED!! I went back to her first published book, SPLENDID. It was adorable, so I kept going, reading every book she released in published order. Which finally brought me to the highly-acclaimed Bridgerton series. Let me just say that all the hype was completely warranted! You will fall IN LOVE with this family. I devoured all eight books in a matter of two weeks. I loved every single character in the Bridgerton family. Violet Bridgerton raised her children with respect and love, and it shows. I'm so sad now -- I just finished the final book in the series, ON THE WAY TO THE WEDDING, (tied with THE DUKE AND I as my favorite in this series) and I don't get to spend anymore time with the Bridgertons. If you're looking for cute, funny, witty prose, look no further. Julia Quinn is Queen!! Can't wait to see what else she has in store for her readers. I'm a life-long fan now!

I have read this book many times and still find it amazingly entertaining. This is one of the reasons that I fell in love with Julia Quinn's books. This is a friends to lovers story that is filled with angst, drama, laughs and a whole lot of love. Simon will have your heart melting and of course Daphne will heal it.

Apparently the author chose the pseudonym Julia Quinn so that her books were beside Amanda Quick's on the shelves and more people might buy them. Amanda Quick is, of course, hugely successful in this genre but I believe Julia Quinn is a much better author - and this book is a good example of that. If you want complete accuracy in historical detail then this is perhaps not the best author for you - her characters speak with American turns of phrase and rather more 20th century than 19th century worldviews in some cases, but this is common to so many Regencies it's almost de rigueur now - if you can read it as fiction and not history you'll be fine.

"The Duke And I" is the first of the Bridgerton series, focusing on daughter Daphne, and it's a good Regency Romance like many out there (there are also, of course, countless dreadful Regency Romances in print too!) However, like "The Viscount Who Loved Me", the second book in this series, Julia Quinn's characters have a lot more depth than you often see in modern books of this genre.

Yes, we have the usual requirements - balls, gowns, the marriage mart and all the rest of it - but this series delves more closely into family dynamics and character growth. Daphne is the fourth child and the first girl of the Bridgerton family; her father died some time ago and her mother has brought up all eight children in a strong atmosphere of love. This was by no means usual at this time amongst the aristocracy - nannies and nursemaids often functioned more as parent figures than the actual parents - and it has enabled Julia Quinn to build a foundation of strong ties between brothers and sisters that she uses in the books.

And this is the contrast between Daphne, the heroine, and Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings, the hero. His upbringing was completely different - his father rejected him, thinking he was stupid because he stammered, and Simon vowed to avoid marriage and children to get back at his father - the direct line of the Dukes of Hastings would die with Simon. But when he meets Daphne and they discover that a sham betrothal would be of benefit to both of them, their plans start going awry.

What's so good about this book is the way in which the characters begin to understand each other. Daphne learns to stand on her own two feet away from her family - particularly her brothers - and Simon learns to deal with the dreadful legacy that his father has given him. This book often deals with strong emotions and I, for one, think Daphne's behaviour at one particular point is unforgiveable, but I suppose it's this warts-and-all portrayal of two people trying to come to terms with sharing their lives together that is so powerful about the story.

I'll admit to reading this series all out of order, but each stands alone. So after already reading both Colin's, Eloise's and the Whistledown books, I finally start at the beginning. The Bridgerton series is about eight brothers and sisters plus their assorted friends. The eight children are named alphabetically - Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphney, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth. This is Daphne's story.

This book had me laughing out loud and later made me teary-eyed. For that alone it deserves a 5. The Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset had a lonely unloved childhood. Because of his stuttering, his own father declared to the world that his son was dead. Never answered letters or came to see him at all! Simon rose above the snub reaching heights he never thought he would - surviving on his hatred to sustain him. Yet Simon had a heart and was well liked among his peers.

Daphne had been raised in the loving bosom of a large family. Now her mother was determined to see her married and Daphne hated the endless matchmaking. Simon (her brother Anthony's friend) has returned from abroad after his father's death. Daphne and he make a pact to protect each other from matchmaking mama's by pretending an attachment. They really are opposites in temperament and philosophies but this is only a temporary arrangement.

Of course, we know that these arrangements often go awry! After compromising Daphne, Simon agrees to save her reputation by marrying her. The Bridgerton brothers are very involved in this agreement! But when Simon tells Daphne he cannot have children, she is devastated - yet willing to marry since she loves him so.

You will love the hilarity of Daphne's talk with her mother regarding the wedding night ... and even laugh at what Daphne reveals to Simon about it!

As, Daphne and Simon adjust to their marriage, there is a terrible revelation about Simon's statement "cannot have children." When Daphne takes matters into her own hands, the rage and angst threaten to end the marriage within two weeks of its start! Can any of the problems be resolved?

You will love the tortured hero and revel in the extended Bridgerton family! I love that Simon has flaws! And who is Lady Whistledown - the mysterious gossip? Her three times a week newsletter is the talk of the town? You will love reading her observations at the beginning of every chapter ... ah but that is another book you must read. The Duke and I is delightful reading ... a keeper.

Julia Quinn has a definite winner in The Duke and I! This entertaining novel introduces the delightful Bridgerton family, which happily Quinn will no doubt revisit in later novels as there are many Bridgerton siblings. The matron-tough, independent but totally loving Violet Bridgerton-gave birth to eight children, named in descending order with the letters of the alphabet (clever of Quinn to make it easier for us to remember who's who!): Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth. This novel focuses on Daphne.
Daphne Bridgerton is beautiful, warm, witty and kind. She's had a very loving upbringing and wants nothing more than to find the right husband and to create a family of her own. But she's not attracting the right suitors (only a really hilarious loser here!); she is such a friend to everyone that no one sees her in a romantic light.
Enter Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings. Having been raised motherless by an incredibly cruel father, Simon has sworn that he will never marry nor have children- that's how he will finally get even with his now deceased father: He will refuse to perpetuate the title that his father worshipped. (His father's only interest in Simon was in having an heir to carry on the family name and title.) Simon is very damaged psychologically, and has worked hard for years to overcome his stutter, which was the pretext for his father's rejection of him.
Daphne doesn't know anything about Simon's past, but she and Simon realize that they can join forces to their own advantage: they pretend to the world that they are courting. Simon is such an illustrious personage that this indeed creates a lot of romantic interest in Daphne from others. Suitors start swarming around her. Simon, for his part, is spared from the constant stream of women who've been trying to snag him-they assume he's already taken.
But their plan backfires when Daphne finds herself falling in love with the mesmerizing duke, and Simon alarmingly finds himself growing possessive of Daphne and jealous of her suitors. When Simon is nevertheless willing to lose his life rather than to marry Daphne, the stakes get extremely high, and the relationship takes on an urgency and intensity that sweeps the reader along. It is beautiful and touching watching their relationship grow deeper as Simon works through his problems.
Julia Quinn has made a quantum leap here. The Duke and I has a greater depth of emotion than Quinn's earlier works while retaining Quinn's signature witty dialogue. This makes the story more substantial and the characters seem more real.
Secondary characters are also great. The irrepressible Lady Danbury-whom I adored in How to Marry a Marquis-reappears, still sassy as ever. And we're introduced to the witty, charming and mysterious Lady Whistledown, whose entertaining Society Papers begin each chapter. I'm pretty sure I know who she really is, but that doesn't damage the fun in the least.

Don't miss The Duke and I, which is sure to charm every romance aficionado!

Simon Basset was born Earl Clyvedon, though it was really just a courtesy title until his father died and he became Duke of Hastings. Simon had problems with his speech as a youth, not uttering his first word until he was 4 years old, causing his father to think him an idiot and his worst failure.

Daphne Bridgerton was the fourth of 8 children, and on her second season out in society. It wasn't that she wasn't a pretty girl, or that she lacked wit or candor, but for some reason men thought of her more as a friend than as a lover.

When Simon returns from his travels on the Continent, having newly inherited the Hastings title, he is deemed as the most eligible bachelor by the ton. His best friend Anthony Bridgerton warns him that he might want to do something to keep the ladies at bay. He doesn't realize that Simon will strike deal with his sister and agree to feign interest in her so that the marriage-minded mamas will leave him alone and Daphne's potential suitors will vie for the chance to steal a duke's love interest.

Though this is the first in Quinn's Bridgerton series, it's the second one I've read, and I can see that I'm going to have to read them all. Quinn's books have all the elements of good historical romance with a number of twists and turns to keep things interesting. How can you not love a book that includes a dawn appointment, a gently-bred lady who knows how to throw a punch, and three overprotective older brothers who will stop at nothing to ensure their sisters' happiness? I would recommend Quinn's books to any reader of romantic fiction who is bored with whiny heroines, roguish heroes, and a plot so banal you wonder why you even bothered. Quinn is quickly becoming one of my favorite voices in romantic fiction.

This is the second book I have read by Julia Quinn and I loved it! The characters were fun and I hoped it would never end, but it did. Luckily this book is only the beginning of a series called the Bridgerton Series. This one is about Daphne, the oldest daughter of the family. Talk about humor and even some serious parts that were heartwarming. The type of people you wish you knew.
~Daphne Bridgerton, the daughter of a Viscount and the eldest daughter of eight children is tired of the social whirl and the ton's endless matchmaking going on. She wants love, love like her mother and father shared. She will settle for no less. Even if she has to pretend to be courted by a Duke that has NO intention of EVER getting married!
The Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset, has lived a life of trying to overcome his secret problem that has caused his father to pretty much abandon him as a son. When his father dies, Simon feels no grief, just relief. But the scars haven't healed from a horrible childhood. His revenge on it, to never marry and let the illustrious title of Dukedom die a quiet death when he does. The plan...pretend to court his best friend Anthony Bridgerton's sister in order to keep the ton's matchmakers at bay and out of his hair until he can come up with a better idea. What he realizes is that Daphne is not some silly girl he can play 'pretend' with.
The two get caught up in their own lie and they find themselves wishing it were all real. Then when an incident causes Daphne's eldest brother and Simon's best friend for so many years to cry foul, a friendship is tested and the 'game' has come to an end. Will Simon, the new Duke of Hastings learn to forget his father's evil presense in his memory? Or will he let the memories take control of his life and make him lose the best thing to come into his life...Daphne must uncover the secret that is about to distroy Simon forever and her...
This is well worth the money. Highly recommended. Anthony's story is "The Viscount Who Loved Me", the second book in the series. By the way, if you read "How to Marry a Marquis", some of the colorful characters I loved in that book are here in this one, "The Duke and I".
Tracy Talley~@

It was very unfortunate for me to read the FIRST book in the series as the LAST one. Because of that reason, I will never find out if I could have reacted differently if I read them all in order. But in order or not in order, this is DEFINITELY worth the hunting I did just so I can finally read Daphne's story.
Daphne is who u call "one of the guys"; the girl who boys can hang out with--period: no marriage intentions or whatsoever. But as it turns out, there is one Duke out there that will fall for her charms nonetheless. The only problem is, this is one of those Dukes who has a depressingly destructing childhood. If he consulted a psychiatrist-if there is one on that time-then we won't have to go through another emotional-roller-coaster-self-conflicted-ride...but since they weren't (probably)offering any psychology courses for the ton, we have to rely to the "healing power of love", whew! that is HEAVY eh? So here we have Daphne, who wishes to have a loving husband and lots and lots of children, falling in love with Simon, who had a bastard of a father, and sweared to his death that He will never, I repeat, NEVER continue the line of the Basset's ancestry; therefore, ending the dukedom with him. But of course, when you have the Bridgertons, what else could go wrong? You'll surely have a happy-ending.
I don't know if Quinn has brothers and sisters, but I was surprised and impressed on how he completely captured the "barbaric" relationship between siblings. I laughed so hard especially when Daphne and one of his brother get into the fighting mode--physically. There is also a family dinner which you CAN'T miss...I mean, the Bridgertons in a family dinner...it almost killed me!hehe--Violet Bridgerton will completely crack u up!
As a wrap-up, half of the book is simple and easy-going with all the charms and antics u'll expect from a Bridgerton book, and half of the book is emotional, touching and sweet as u'll expect from Quinn.

The first half of this book is a little tedious and worth about 3 stars, but it really takes off in the second half and becomes a strong 4. Daphne Bridgerton is in her second season but has yet to find an acceptable suitor. She believes that it is because men view her as "just one of the guys" - sister of the handsome Bridgerton brothers - and not as an object of romantic love. It is also possible that her overbearing brothers are scaring off potential beaus. Simon Basset, the new Duke of Hastings and an old friend of Daphne's brother Anthony, has just arrived back from the continent and is the focus of intense interest by potential brides and their mothers. Daphne and Simon become fast friends, but he makes it clear that he does not ever want a wife. They decide to pretend an attachment to one another in order to get Daphne's mother off her back about marrying and to make Daphne more desirable to other men because she has attracted a Duke. It will also get the "matchmaking mommas" to leave Simon alone. Of course, the pretend attachment starts to become quite real and the inevitable complications develop.

Both Daphne and Simon are extremely appealing. Simon's childhood as a profound stutterer who is wholly rejected by his father, is heartbreaking, and Daphne's efforts to help him come to terms with it are quite moving. I think the first half of the story would have been better if we knew more about Daphne and what makes her tick, but she is redeemed nicely in the second half. I can see why this series has become so popular, because the Bridgerton family, of which Daphne is the oldest daughter, is truly loveable.

A refreshing and fun read! I was led to this, my first Julia Quinn novel, on the recommendation of a fellow Judith McNaught fan. This book had me repeatedly laughing out loud at the antics and dialog between the irrepressible Bridgerton family. Quinn has a lively wit and is obviously unafraid to break out of the Regency mold and allow her characters to be warm and human rather than ruled by protocol. It breathes...

Quite effortlessly, Quinn entraps her readers in her own sheer joy of living. And lest you be tempted to think the story must be shallow because of the humor, I must add that the plot explores the deep, wrenching trauma of emotional abuse. A wound so deep that even the privilege of wealth and rank and mature adulthood cannot erase it. Ah, but love truly CAN move a mountain -- even if that overwhelming obstacle lies within ourselves.

I applaud Quinn's outlook on marriage as a safe haven for a couple to give and grow with one another. In the warmth of this committed union, sincere love ultimately brings healing to the deepest inmost hurts of the past. On the wings of Daphne's love, Simon is enabled to achieve new heights of self-confidence, happiness and freedom. The plot reflects on the typical fact that one spouse has strength where the other is weak. Rather than accept Simon's determined bent to nurture his weaknesses and angry childhood resolves, Daphne's love prompts her to risk everything to help her beloved see and understand the destructive tendencies he has embraced from childhood. Gently, but deftly, she encourages Simon to shake free of his past and begin anew in a better world created by their love for one another.

I must say the _The Duke and I_ was like a Thanksgiving Turkey for me. There it was on the table, looking all nice and delicious, but I had to wait before I could devour it. _The Duke and I_ was in my HUGE pile of to be read books for a couple of months before I got the chance to eat. And, like the turkey, this book was better on the inside then on the out...
Daphne Bridgerton is the fourth of eight children, and is foundly refered to by every eligable bachelor as 'the best friend you could ever have'. Unfortunately for Daffy, she desprately wants to get married. This presents quite a problem because the only men who want Daff as more then a friend are people she could never see herself living with. And, because of her audacious mama, the bachelors that don't think of Daffy as a great friend are frightened off by Violet. So, for a girl already on her second season and getting precariously close to becoming a spinster, the husband candidates are few and far between.
Then we have Simon Basset, newly appointed the Duke of Hastings. Simon's childhood was a tortured one... the boy being his father's only son, there was a lot of pressure put on him. And, when the boy didn't speak until he was four, and when he did speak, he had a horrible stutter. This was enough to push Simon's father away from his son forever. The poor little boy was extremly determined to overcome his stutter and make his father proud of him, but the late Duke of Hastings could not get over his notion that Simon was a nit-wit. Simon grew up to be extremly smart, and earned the reputation of a rake among men. So, when he returns to London after his father dies, the vicious vultures that are politely reffered to as Mamas attack him, looking for a husband for their daughters. When Simon and Daphne meet, they decide to form a plan.
Intrigued?
It gets better.
Their plan is to pretend to have developed a tendre for one another. That way, the Mamas will stay away from Simon, and men will start to look at Daff in a new light. But, what happens when the two start to fall head over heals in love with each other?
Through out these events, there is one gossip colomnist who is reporting it all. The ton refers to her as Lady Whistledown even though the name is obviously fake. The woman seems to have spies everywhere, and knows of things, it seems, before they happen. Bits and pieces of her gossip colomn are stuck in at the begining of each chapter and make the book ten times more entertaining then it already is. If you don't want to read this book, I would suggest it to you for no other reason then to get a kick out of this woman's view of the ton. It is garunteed to get a laugh out of you and make you itch to find out who this woman is.
I sincerly enjoyed _The Duke and I_. It had everything I look for in a book in it. Romance, humor, family, and a little bit of seriousness... but just enough to make you believe that this may have really happened. Simon... well, I fell completely in love with him. Julia Quinn was very smart to include the prologue describing Simon's childhood. It strengthened the character development tremendously and it helps the reader see how he developed into the man he was. Because of his stutter, I felt very attached and (if this is possible to feel for a character in a book) protective of him. I often wanted to hop into the book and give him a hug and a kiss on his cheek. Daphne... well she was wonderful. Her spunk and love were all lovely, and her devotion to Simon will bring tears to your eyes. You will laugh at her wit, and cheer for her bravery. When Simon is a blockhead (and trust me, he seriously knows how to be stubborn) you want her to give him a punch for you. It was nice to see the heroine deffend herself, but to have been able to do it without a gun or a knife was commendable. Daphne knew how to get down and use her hands to defend herself if that was ever needed, and I found it a nice change from the usual self defense that romance heroines usually have. I absolutely loved her family. They added spice to this turkey... dare I say they were the stuffing? I can tell there are going to be sequals because Daphne's three oldest brothers were so well developed. Julia Quinn's writing style is just my type, it's light and bouncy and full of humor (it is garunteed that you will laugh out loud at least once) but also keeps you grounded. Her humor is not complicated, it's basically what you see is what you get, and it was nice to take a break from sarcastic humor to just plain old comedy. Although, the characters' dialogues are full of hysterical, witty sarcasm that will bring a smile to you face and have you in awe of Julia's ability to write. This book was so good that I was reading it even as my eyes were fully dialated from an eye exam (not an easy feat if you ask me).
If you question Julia's humor, just read the little bio of her on the back inside cover of any of her books. If that doesn't get a chuckle out of you, read the dedication on one of the first pages. Trust me, this book is excellent. When you add up all of the ingrediants I've mentioned above, you'll get one great turkey. I can't wait to read more of her work.

The Duke and I is a splendid book and a great introduction to the writing style of Julia Quinn!
Simon Basset has never been perfect in his father's eyes, and having failed, he's decided to thwart his father forever by being everything his father never thought he would be, including refusing to marry and continue the long and mighty Hastings ducal line. And however much he wants Daphne Bridgerton, he refuses to go back on his vow.
Daphne has always been friendly...so friendly in fact, that potential suitors never consider her a likely candidate for marriage. That is, until Daphne meets Simon. Even though he tries to be aloof, not only because of his vow but because Anthony Bridgerton (a long-time friend of Simon's) threatens his neck, Simon cannot help but be attracted to Daphne during the span of their pretend courtship.
Caught in a compromising position, they are forced to wed, and both are at the beginning of a journey to learn more about themselves and each other. Of course, included is a healthy dose of humor. Julia Quinn is IMHO, one of the best writers of witty dialogue, not to mention the incredible Lady Whistledown! Her books are bound to make you laugh out loud.

Well I finally have now read the 1st book in this series. I read them backwards by accident. I love this series. The Bridgerton family is wonderful. This is the story of the eldest daughter Daphne Bridgerton and The Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset. Simon is an old friend of Daphne's older brother Anthony. He has just returned from a six year long absense from England and is determined not to go to any social functions because he has no intention of ever marrying. He does agree to go to one hosted by the Lady Danbury who had always been nice to him when he was a child. There he comes upon the lovely Daphne and they form an instant friendship. Daphne's mother has her on edge with trying to find a husband. She hasn't had much luck so when Simon thinks up a scheme to help them both out she agrees. As it progresses she falls for Simon and he is strongly attracted to her but is determined not to marry her. He has a deep secret that he keeps to himself. They must overcome his fears, his secret and her family to make this work. This book has lots of humor in it and a lot of tenderness. I have enjoyed these books and can't wait to read more and to especially find out who Lady Whistledown really is.

This is the first novel in the "Bridgeton" series...followed by "The Viscount who Loved Me" "An Offer from a Gentleman" "Romancing Mr Bridgerton" "To Sir Phillip, With Love" and soon..."When He was Wicked."
This first installation of the series is by far the best book. I really did enjoy them all and it is great to have the "Whistledown" aspect of these novels. You will have to read it yourself to understand that...but it's worth it and Lady Whistledown's true identity is revealed in a later novel.
Daphne and Simon have one of those loves that is just so meant to be that it happens despite everyone's efforts to stop it! Daphne is determined to marry only for love, and Simon is determined not to marry at all. TOgether they scheme to pretend to be engaged so that all the pesty mamas will stop thrusting their daughters at him and so that Daphne's own mama and potential suiters will leave her alone. But, their sham of an engagement soon becomes an excuse to be together...and their mutual attraction cannot be ignored!
All the books in this series are good, but this one should not be missed!

Julia Quinn's strengths in the books of hers I have read - the Bridgerton series - are her witty dialogue, her rakish but "softy" heroes and her independent heroines. Her weakness is that her heroes and heroines sometimes behave and speak in ways more reminiscent of the 1990s rather than the 1810s (the Regency period).
I have to agree that THE DUKE AND I is a great fun read. I did "get into" the characters, their humor, and their relationships with each other. And yes, I read it all through in one evening, and noticed the flaws only as I neared the end.
However, I found some parts very hard to accept. For example, the tone of the conversations between the characters are not really Regency but very modern or post-modern. Much as I enjoyed the book, I cannot believe that some reviewers are comparing Julia Quinn to Jane Austen in terms of her accuracy in portraying the Regency period's conversation and the social elite.
There are some situations that also strain my credulity, such as the fact that Simon prefers to be thought of as a blackguard when he has hopelessly compromised his friend's sister. Would any man - even one so afraid of marriage and determined not to have children - still be prepared to lose all his friends? [That is what would have happened in real life. Making love to your friend's unmarried sister and then refusing to marry her was simply not done]. This is not even mentioned in the book.
Some minor things that bother me are: What happened to Simon's nanny, she who loved him and taught him to read etc? No mention of her after the first few pages. Amazing.
Also his maternal relatives are never mentioned. It is inconceivable that his mother's family and friends would take no interest in the child even at birth. If the Duchess and Duke were orphans coming from single-child families for generations, that would make sense. But there is nothing to place Simon in the context of a larger family, nor to show him as anything but the catch of the season as an unmarried Duke.
I have to admit that I do like the humor, and when I read the book simply for the story and the plot (as a generic period piece) it is a great fun read. Yes, I laughed out loud several times.
I really wanted to know more about the brothers, especially Benedict and Colin. And I have my own suspicions about who Lady Whistledown (the author of the little gossip snippets) is.
General recommendation - if you like a good fun read, with lots of witty dialogue, and with a lot of humor sometimes bordering on farce, this is a good book. If you like a strong modern heroine and a hero tortured by his unhappy relationship with his father, this is a good book as well. If you want the atmosphere to be right, and you don't like some inconsistencies, then this is probably not the book for you.
The book is not a keeper for me, but then I tend to be pickier in my Regencies than the average reader. I rated this book at 4.3 (deducting points for insufficiently fleshing out Simon's background, and the other inconsistencies I mentioned earlier).

This was the first Julia Quinn book I've read and I loved it! I really enjoy her writing style. If you are a stickler for true-to-period dialogue and description, you may be disappointed, but I found it to be fun and funny and highly entertaining. I don't mind a few modern words and thoughts in my historical romance stories. Especially in this book, it is part of what makes it such a good read.

The story of Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset is truly wonderful. The whole, hugh, boisterous Bridgerton family is so delightful. I love the interaction between the siblings. Daphne is smart and funny and unique, just how I like my heroines. And Simon is rakish and honorable and secretly sweet, just how I like my heroes. Simon's problems and tortured past makes him all that more endearing to me.

All in all a great story that I happily recommend.

(P.S. By now I've read a few more books in this series. Still love Julia Quinn and still love the Bridgerton family!)

When the Earl of Clyvedon was born, everyone rejoiced. But no one was more elated than the baby's own father who, in his mid-forties, has waited a long time to sire an heir. But his "perfect son" was starting to show sign of idiocy when, at the age of four, he realizes that the boy couldn't talk without stuttering. After that discovery, he leaves his son in the care of his nurse and proclaims him dead. But what he never knew was that by doing so, he would turn his idiot son into a remarkable man.

Now at the age of twenty-eight, Simon Bassett comes home from his extended travel in order to take over the title of the Duke of Hastings. With his father dead, he knows that the ton would be aware of the fortune that he has inherited. And boy was he ever wrong! As soon as he sets foot in the ballroom, ambitious mamas clamor for his attention wanting to introduce their daughters, and young married women and widows alike are blatantly propositioning him! Then he meets Daphne, sister of his best friend the Viscount of Bridgerton. Realizing the position she's currently in, and with escape the only thing in his mind, he strikes a deal with her whereby they pretend to have developed a sudden tendre for each other, leaving him "unavailable".

For a while, it seemed like the best thing for both of them. Simon is practically left alone by those ambitious ladies of the ton, while Daphne immediately becomes the Season's darling by "catching" the attention of the most eligible bachelor in London, and therefore attracting more suitors. But then the pretence gets a little too much and try as they might, they couldn't stop the connection that draws them together.

After reading WHEN HE WAS WICKED, I was eager to read the other books in the Bridgerton series and bought the first book THE DUKE AND I. I absolutely loved Simon and Daphne's story. Theirs is an entertaining, delightful and sometimes emotional romance. Simon is such a compelling hero, trying to escape a lonely childhood, but still carrying the burden of being unwanted by his father, who was embarrassed by his speech defect. I admired the way he used his father's hatred to excel in his studies, yet at the same time I felt sympathy for the fact that he denies himself the pleasure of a happy marriage and of siring his own children, believing that letting the title pass on to a distant relative would be the ultimate revenge against his father. And this is what Daphne must help him overcome. And the way she did it was noting short of remarkable. Her determination and love for him makes her such an endearing heroine, just absolutely perfect for Simon.

THE DUKE AND I, with its witty dialogues and entertaining main and secondary characters, is a perfect start to the series. I guarantee that you will love Simon and Daphne's story and will make you want to read about the other Bridgerton siblings as well.

Next after this is Anthony's story (THE VISCOUNT WHO LOVED ME).

The Duke and I was the first book I read in 2009 and what a wonderful way to start a year of reading! This book was packed with larger than life characters and a story that consumes you. I could not flip the pages quick enough to find out what was going to happen next. Simon and Daphne never expected to fall in love after their pretend courtship, but love is what happens. Simon's a true tortured hero, he has a horrible stammer that leaves him scared to death every time he opens his mouth to speak and pure hatred for his father. You want to do exactly what Daphne did and just love him to pieces.

I love books that make me smile, but this book made me laugh out loud, for pages! The funniest part has to do with their wedding night and impotence. Tears, I tell you, tears! This books starts the Bridgerton Family series, one of eight books and let me tell you if all the books in the series are this funny, and pack a story that rivals a Garwood historical, boy have I hit a jackpot!

Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, and Daphne Bridgerton, pretended an attachment to each other. For Simon, this plan was to free himself from marriage-minded mothers. For Daphne, it was to free herslf from unsuitable suitors and in the meanwhile attract more suitors. Somehow, they grew attracted to each other and found themslves in a compromising position. But the thing was... Simon had vowed that he were never to marry. You have to find out on your own how the two ended up together because I will not want to sopil the book for you!
This is the first Julia Quinn book that I have ever read, and I am extremely delighted with it. Although a few parts in the story are not really believeable, the humour shown throughout the book somehow made up for it. The characters in the book are well-developed. I even grow a fondness over the Bridgerton family even though the three elder brothers of Daphne were proved to be rather meddlesome in the matters of her marriage. I am looking forward to the next book of the Bridgerton family, "The Viscount who Loved Me".
This is the novel for you if you love a light-hearted read, with witty and humourous dialogue, and some heart-wenching moments. Enjoy the read!

What a delightful read! This is my first book from Julia Quinn and I am enchanted. For sure, I will soon be reading the Bridgerton series.
Though Simon is supposed to be a nortorious rake, there was little ink about it. In fact, Simon appeared to be a perfect gentlemen in the league of rakes among the romance novels. Daphne was lovely and kind, with a touch of innocence but enough intelligence to not to appear too child-like. The secondary characters were charming too and I look forward to read more about them.
The book was well-paced and the dialogue was very engaging. I thought I was immuned to being over-sentimental after so many romance books but I was amazed that my tears fell when Simon told Daphne that he could not marry her, after Anthony discovered them. Julia Quinn was wonderful in making her characters came alive and touched you. Though knowing that there would be a happy ending, it was the journey that counted and Julia Quinn had made that so vivid and charming.

I rarely read historicals. Yet I found myself buying this book even though I have a stack of comptemporay romance/suspense waiting to be read on my nightstand. This was one of the best impulsive buys I have ever made. I have never read anything by Julia Quinn, but if this is how she writes, I've just added a new author to my list of must read. Simon and Daphne are not your typical historical lead characters. Yes Daphne is this young thing during her second season looking for a husband and Simon is a dashing rake avoiding marriage, but this is where the stereotype ends. These characters take on personalities you will not soon forget as they struggle to make things work. It is impossible to describe this book fully without giving away the plot. Just let me say this, the dialogue is wonderful and you will love these characters. This book had me grinning almost the entire time I read it. That is how funny the dialogue reads. The secondary characters are a bonus. You have to read this book if you are looking for something to lose yourself into for a few hours. It is worth it!

Julia Quinn has, without a doubt, written her way into being my personal favorite author!... a spot that had has been unchanged since I was sixteen years old. Oh yeah, with each book of hers that I read, I cannot help but admire her more and more! Such talent, and to think that she began writing just as a passing thought really, it astounds me. Wish I had that sort of talent bursting at my fingertips.
"The Duke and I" was uncomparibly brilliant! I think Julia's biggest talent in her writing (and I'm sure most would agree with me here) is her dialogs. She has the ability to make her characters become real with laughter, tears and joy.
Julia is exceptionally good with adding a whole lot of humor into her novels, and this book was no expection... without giving anything away, I MUST say that I laughed for a good 10 minutes strait reading the part where Simon was drunk and trying to explain his feeling while his brain just wouldn't cooperate with him (nor his speech for that matter)... OH SO FUNNY!!!!
You've gotta read this book! You won't be disapointed! Again, many many thanks to Julia for sharing her talent with us!

Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings, had an arduous childhood. His mother died giving birth to him, he couldn't speak until he was four years old, and his father rejected him because when he did speak, he stutters terribly. Simon was shunned by his father who thought he was a moron. Actually, Simon is extremely intelligent, earning a first in mathematics at Cambridge. But Simon has never forgotten his father's rejection, and refuses to reconcile with him before his death. He also vows never to marry or have children. Enter Daphne Bridgerton, whose mother is determined to find her a suitable husband. Sure she's then foreced to search for the acceptable husband and endure the churlish men. When Daphne and Simon meet they decide to fake an attachment, so that other suitors will find Daphne more attractive and so that Simon is spared the attentions of the matchmaking mothers. But it soon turns into the real thing. Can the bachelor give up his solitary ways for the woman he loves?
The Duke and I is humerous, endearing, heart-warming and entertaining. Crisp and funny dialogues. You'll enjoy this wonderful story as her other works. No exception. Highly recommended.

THE DUKE AND I by Julia Quinn Review by Barb Deane, Barb's All Romance Book Store
Julia Quinn's latest Regency-era historical from Avon's Romantic Treasures line is entitled The Duke and I. The Duke and I is the latest in her line of classic movie title parodies, following How To Marry a Marquis and To Catch an Heiress. Like the classic movies with which these books share similar titles, these books are fun, entertaining romps that you should be sure not to miss.
Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, had a difficult childhood, to say the least. His mother died giving birth to him, he couldn't speak until he was four years old, and his father rejected him because, when he did speak, he had a terrible stutter. Although Simon and his faithful nurse worked hard at ridding Simon of the stutter, he was so soured on his father, especially after the man told his servants that Simon was dead, that his life became focused on thwarting his father at every opportunity
Daphne Bridgerton is the oldest daughter in a large, close, but somewhat eccentric, ton family. After two seasons and no marriage, Daphne's mother fears that she will end up on the shelf. Given that there are three more daughters to marry off, Daphne's mother become obsessed with getting Daphne a husband. To that end, Daphne is paraded out and forced to endure all of the more boorish men of the ton, in search for the acceptable husband. Fortunately, Daphne's oldest brother Anthony, the head of the household and Simon's best friend, is not inclined to force Daphne into an unhappy marriage.
When Daphne and Simon meet, they each know enough of each other from Anthony to be fairly comfortable together, even given the immediate attraction between them. When Simon suggests that they act as if they have formed an attachment for each other, thereby saving Simon from the mothers of all the marriageable girls and making Daphne more attractive to the other eligible bachelors, Daphne agrees to his crazy scheme. What they are unable to control, however, is the way that the attraction between them grows in the inevitable togetherness their plan requires.
The Duke and I is full of Julia's characteristic humor and her delightful trademark chapter openers - in this case, excerpts from the gossip column of Lady Whistledown. However, I did find that The Duke and I was not quite as light as Julia's recent books. Simon's angst-filled childhood and the scars that his father left behind, made Simon a more complex hero, for which Daphne had to be a deeper heroine as well. Their friendship and lively conversation made the tendre that developed between them very believable. The secondary characters were intriguing and I hope that we will see many of Daphne's numerous siblings in future stories. I have enjoyed every book Julia Quinn has written, and The Duke and I was no exception. Don't miss this wonderful story!
Barb Deane Copyrightc 1999, Barb's All Romance Book Store. All rights reserved

Every time i write a review on a historical romance, I tend to mention this particular book as one of my favorites. It is not one of my favorites, but my main. Honestly, it has been the best story i have ever read, a breath of fresh air. A book that allows you to dream that love and happily-ever afters actually exists. How wonderfully written, what a great creation of characters. This book, made me fall in love with historical's and made me Julia Quinn's most devoted fan. I love every page, every word, every kiss. The main characters have such a chemistry that you can feel it through the pages. It is extremely well-written, and the romance is believable. I just do not have enough words to express how enamored I am of this story. I only know that i have read it more than a couple of times, and every time, i find myself enjoying the story even more. A work well done Mrs JULIA !!!!!!!! Thank you.

Let me start off by saying, I'm not much of a romantic, and I probably would never have purchased this book. BUT given the wonderful reviews here and strong recommendations from a friend, I decided to give Julia Quinn a shot...and was plesantly surprised! The Duke and I is a charming, sexy story. It is a whimsical, fun--if predictable--read that I enjoyed immensely.

Daphne Bridgerton is an amiable, quick-witted young woman with a sly sense of humor. The eldest daughter in the Bridgerton family, she finds herself being pushed out into society by her driven mother (a so-called "ambitious mama") to find a husband. The Bridgertons are not in financial straits nor do they need to gain higher social position--refreshing for a regency period novel that seems to constantly have a heroine who is penniless/indebted/of low social rank--but Violet Bridgerton (said ambitious mama) is in a tizzy to marry off her daughter. Simultaneously, Simon Basset, Earl of Clyvedon, Duke of Hastings (isn't THAT a mouthful) is making his entrance to society after gaining notoriety as a rake in his university days and traveling the world to escape having to deal with his nasty father. Hastings is best friends with Daphne's older brother, Anthony, and thus by the unspoken man-rule between friends, shall not covet his friend's sister. Of course things are never that simple, and Simon stumbles upon Daphne and comes to her rescue from an overzealous suitor. Before he knows who exactly she is, he finds himself irrevocably attracted to her.

After getting a taste of the rabid marriage-minded ton, Simon--who has sworn an oath never to marry--makes a proposition to level-headed Daphne. They will form a false attachment to each other, thereby freeing Daff from the vicelike grip of her mother's marital schemes and simultaneously deterring any matronly ambitions towards Simon. In the meantime, Simon convinces Daphne that her stock will increase dramatically, because all men want what they cannot have.

Of course, you can tell where this is going.

The Duke and I isn't exactly the literary equivalent of a winter feast in Glasgow--but it isn't meant to be. It is a light, airy romance that is more along the lines of a fresh squeezed glass of cold lemonade on a summer day. It won't linger with you when you are done, but it satisfies a craving for something sweet, and smooth.

Food metaphors aside, The Duke and I is fun. The characters are stock and the plot is predictable, but for what it is, it hits the mark. Daphne is intelligent, very pretty, selfless and kind. Simon, although described as a rake and hoards a dark secret (he *gasp* stutters), isn't really a rake, and is a nice, moral guy that is ashamed of his past and has some daddy issues to work out (again with the daddy issues!). Daphne, kind woman that she is, saves him from his own demons, and after a short period of angst and light misunderstanding, they both live happily ever after. While the writing isn't particularly well done--people laugh and eyes sparkle waaaay too much--it is paced well.

And because you can't review a romance novel without addressing the sex...Confession: I find myself sometimes completely embarrassed and collapsing into fits of laughter over the majority of romance novel sex scenes (portions from A Hunger Like No Other with the lead male "groaning, straining against his traus" come to mind). Let's call that the "embarrassment factor". In The Duke and I, thankfully the embarrasment factor was down to bearable levels and the sex was hot without being ridiculous. It was cute to read about Daphne's complete confusion and innocence concerning intercourse, and the first encounter between Simon and Daff is steamy good fun.

*lights a post-coital cigarette* It was good for me.

Review Courtesy of TheBookSmugglers.blogspot.com

Copyright in 2000. This was a very good book and had me laughing out loud in a few places. The beginning where Simon meets Daphne is actually hilarious. Poor Simon didn't have a very good deal with his father but despite, or because, of this he grew up into a wonderful and compassionate person. Daphne knows what she wants and seems to get it. She seemed to have a great grasp on who Simon is from the beginning and was able to be both serious and lighten things up as needed for him. Simon was still dealing with his childhood trauma and I loved how this wasn't dealt with lightly and how Daphne was able to positively impact things for him. Altogether a fun, and seemingly fast, read. A good start to the Bridgerton series. I look forward to reading the rest of the siblings stories.

From the moment I discovered Julia Quinn, I have been hooked. I've read everything of hers I can get my hands on and have waited and waited for this book. It was wonderful and all I could have hoped for. I love Quinn's romances for the witty humor and how she can take us into each character's life with such ease. The Duke and I delivers and then some. Simon and Daphne are wonderful. Julia Quinn has created characters who are down-to-earth and so likeable, they feel like well-known friends. From the moment Simon enters the picture, you will fall in love with him. He is not brooding or completely unapproachable (as so many authors seem to be fixated upon). He is intelligent and makes Daphne's ( and my ) knees weak. I especially enjoyed Daphne. She is a strong woman who knows what she wants and loves her family and her duke in ways that feel real, not overly romanticized. All I can say is: You have got to get this book. You will laugh, fall in love, and maybe even cry a little. It is one of Julia's best! I can't wait for the next one!

The first installment of the Bridgerton series focuses on the eldest Bridgerton sister, Daphne. This is an emotional joy ride in how Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings found true love with Daphne Bridgerton. Simon grew up motherless, rejected by his father, and with a speech impediment to boot --he stutters. He overcame this impediment but it still comes out especially in times of great emotional strain.
Simon met Daphne when he rescued her from an obssessed suitor. The Duke just came back from living abroad and found out that Mamas with marriageable daughters kept hounding him; whereas Daphne needed to raise her marriage desirability among the eligible bachelors of the ton. So they struck a deal, they will announce a sham engagement. Of course, once the proposals started pouring in for Daphne, Simon thought that the sham engagement must be turned into a real one. And before anyone could say "Duke of Hastings," they were married.
Daphne found bliss and happiness in Simon's arms, and wants to start a family; but Simon's painful childhood is blocking the way to their total happiness.
"The Duke and I" started off lighthearted but it has moments where you truly feel for the characters. I like Daphne's strength and her determination to pull Simon out of the dark remembrance of his past.

Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings, had an arduous childhood. His mother died giving birth to him, he couldn't speak until he was four years old, and his father rejected him because when he did speak, he stutters terribly. Simon was shunned by his father who thought he was a moron. Actually, Simon is extremely intelligent, earning a first in mathematics at Cambridge. But Simon has never forgotten his father's rejection, and refuses to reconcile with him before his death. He also vows never to marry or have children. Enter Daphne Bridgerton, whose mother is determined to find her a suitable husband. Sure she's then foreced to search for the acceptable husband and endure the churlish men. When Daphne and Simon meet they decide to fake an attachment, so that other suitors will find Daphne more attractive and so that Simon is spared the attentions of the matchmaking mothers. But it soon turns into the real thing. Can the bachelor give up his solitary ways for the woman he loves?
The Duke and I is humerous, endearing, heart-warming and entertaining. Crisp and funny dialogues. You'll enjoy this wonderful story as her other works. No exception. Highly recommended.

THE DUKE AND I by Julia Quinn Review by Barb Deane, Barb's All Romance Book Store
Julia Quinn's latest Regency-era historical from Avon's Romantic Treasures line is entitled The Duke and I. The Duke and I is the latest in her line of classic movie title parodies, following How To Marry a Marquis and To Catch an Heiress. Like the classic movies with which these books share similar titles, these books are fun, entertaining romps that you should be sure not to miss.
Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, had a difficult childhood, to say the least. His mother died giving birth to him, he couldn't speak until he was four years old, and his father rejected him because, when he did speak, he had a terrible stutter. Although Simon and his faithful nurse worked hard at ridding Simon of the stutter, he was so soured on his father, especially after the man told his servants that Simon was dead, that his life became focused on thwarting his father at every opportunity
Daphne Bridgerton is the oldest daughter in a large, close, but somewhat eccentric, ton family. After two seasons and no marriage, Daphne's mother fears that she will end up on the shelf. Given that there are three more daughters to marry off, Daphne's mother become obsessed with getting Daphne a husband. To that end, Daphne is paraded out and forced to endure all of the more boorish men of the ton, in search for the acceptable husband. Fortunately, Daphne's oldest brother Anthony, the head of the household and Simon's best friend, is not inclined to force Daphne into an unhappy marriage.
When Daphne and Simon meet, they each know enough of each other from Anthony to be fairly comfortable together, even given the immediate attraction between them. When Simon suggests that they act as if they have formed an attachment for each other, thereby saving Simon from the mothers of all the marriageable girls and making Daphne more attractive to the other eligible bachelors, Daphne agrees to his crazy scheme. What they are unable to control, however, is the way that the attraction between them grows in the inevitable togetherness their plan requires.
The Duke and I is full of Julia's characteristic humor and her delightful trademark chapter openers - in this case, excerpts from the gossip column of Lady Whistledown. However, I did find that The Duke and I was not quite as light as Julia's recent books. Simon's angst-filled childhood and the scars that his father left behind, made Simon a more complex hero, for which Daphne had to be a deeper heroine as well. Their friendship and lively conversation made the tendre that developed between them very believable. The secondary characters were intriguing and I hope that we will see many of Daphne's numerous siblings in future stories. I have enjoyed every book Julia Quinn has written, and The Duke and I was no exception. Don't miss this wonderful story!
Barb Deane Copyrightc 1999, Barb's All Romance Book Store. All rights reserved

Every time i write a review on a historical romance, I tend to mention this particular book as one of my favorites. It is not one of my favorites, but my main. Honestly, it has been the best story i have ever read, a breath of fresh air. A book that allows you to dream that love and happily-ever afters actually exists. How wonderfully written, what a great creation of characters. This book, made me fall in love with historical's and made me Julia Quinn's most devoted fan. I love every page, every word, every kiss. The main characters have such a chemistry that you can feel it through the pages. It is extremely well-written, and the romance is believable. I just do not have enough words to express how enamored I am of this story. I only know that i have read it more than a couple of times, and every time, i find myself enjoying the story even more. A work well done Mrs JULIA !!!!!!!! Thank you.

Let me start off by saying, I'm not much of a romantic, and I probably would never have purchased this book. BUT given the wonderful reviews here and strong recommendations from a friend, I decided to give Julia Quinn a shot...and was plesantly surprised! The Duke and I is a charming, sexy story. It is a whimsical, fun--if predictable--read that I enjoyed immensely.

Daphne Bridgerton is an amiable, quick-witted young woman with a sly sense of humor. The eldest daughter in the Bridgerton family, she finds herself being pushed out into society by her driven mother (a so-called "ambitious mama") to find a husband. The Bridgertons are not in financial straits nor do they need to gain higher social position--refreshing for a regency period novel that seems to constantly have a heroine who is penniless/indebted/of low social rank--but Violet Bridgerton (said ambitious mama) is in a tizzy to marry off her daughter. Simultaneously, Simon Basset, Earl of Clyvedon, Duke of Hastings (isn't THAT a mouthful) is making his entrance to society after gaining notoriety as a rake in his university days and traveling the world to escape having to deal with his nasty father. Hastings is best friends with Daphne's older brother, Anthony, and thus by the unspoken man-rule between friends, shall not covet his friend's sister. Of course things are never that simple, and Simon stumbles upon Daphne and comes to her rescue from an overzealous suitor. Before he knows who exactly she is, he finds himself irrevocably attracted to her.

After getting a taste of the rabid marriage-minded ton, Simon--who has sworn an oath never to marry--makes a proposition to level-headed Daphne. They will form a false attachment to each other, thereby freeing Daff from the vicelike grip of her mother's marital schemes and simultaneously deterring any matronly ambitions towards Simon. In the meantime, Simon convinces Daphne that her stock will increase dramatically, because all men want what they cannot have.

Of course, you can tell where this is going.

The Duke and I isn't exactly the literary equivalent of a winter feast in Glasgow--but it isn't meant to be. It is a light, airy romance that is more along the lines of a fresh squeezed glass of cold lemonade on a summer day. It won't linger with you when you are done, but it satisfies a craving for something sweet, and smooth.

Food metaphors aside, The Duke and I is fun. The characters are stock and the plot is predictable, but for what it is, it hits the mark. Daphne is intelligent, very pretty, selfless and kind. Simon, although described as a rake and hoards a dark secret (he *gasp* stutters), isn't really a rake, and is a nice, moral guy that is ashamed of his past and has some daddy issues to work out (again with the daddy issues!). Daphne, kind woman that she is, saves him from his own demons, and after a short period of angst and light misunderstanding, they both live happily ever after. While the writing isn't particularly well done--people laugh and eyes sparkle waaaay too much--it is paced well.

And because you can't review a romance novel without addressing the sex...Confession: I find myself sometimes completely embarrassed and collapsing into fits of laughter over the majority of romance novel sex scenes (portions from A Hunger Like No Other with the lead male "groaning, straining against his traus" come to mind). Let's call that the "embarrassment factor". In The Duke and I, thankfully the embarrasment factor was down to bearable levels and the sex was hot without being ridiculous. It was cute to read about Daphne's complete confusion and innocence concerning intercourse, and the first encounter between Simon and Daff is steamy good fun.

*lights a post-coital cigarette* It was good for me.

Review Courtesy of TheBookSmugglers.blogspot.com

Copyright in 2000. This was a very good book and had me laughing out loud in a few places. The beginning where Simon meets Daphne is actually hilarious. Poor Simon didn't have a very good deal with his father but despite, or because, of this he grew up into a wonderful and compassionate person. Daphne knows what she wants and seems to get it. She seemed to have a great grasp on who Simon is from the beginning and was able to be both serious and lighten things up as needed for him. Simon was still dealing with his childhood trauma and I loved how this wasn't dealt with lightly and how Daphne was able to positively impact things for him. Altogether a fun, and seemingly fast, read. A good start to the Bridgerton series. I look forward to reading the rest of the siblings stories.

From the moment I discovered Julia Quinn, I have been hooked. I've read everything of hers I can get my hands on and have waited and waited for this book. It was wonderful and all I could have hoped for. I love Quinn's romances for the witty humor and how she can take us into each character's life with such ease. The Duke and I delivers and then some. Simon and Daphne are wonderful. Julia Quinn has created characters who are down-to-earth and so likeable, they feel like well-known friends. From the moment Simon enters the picture, you will fall in love with him. He is not brooding or completely unapproachable (as so many authors seem to be fixated upon). He is intelligent and makes Daphne's ( and my ) knees weak. I especially enjoyed Daphne. She is a strong woman who knows what she wants and loves her family and her duke in ways that feel real, not overly romanticized. All I can say is: You have got to get this book. You will laugh, fall in love, and maybe even cry a little. It is one of Julia's best! I can't wait for the next one!

The first installment of the Bridgerton series focuses on the eldest Bridgerton sister, Daphne. This is an emotional joy ride in how Simon Bassett, the Duke of Hastings found true love with Daphne Bridgerton. Simon grew up motherless, rejected by his father, and with a speech impediment to boot --he stutters. He overcame this impediment but it still comes out especially in times of great emotional strain.
Simon met Daphne when he rescued her from an obssessed suitor. The Duke just came back from living abroad and found out that Mamas with marriageable daughters kept hounding him; whereas Daphne needed to raise her marriage desirability among the eligible bachelors of the ton. So they struck a deal, they will announce a sham engagement. Of course, once the proposals started pouring in for Daphne, Simon thought that the sham engagement must be turned into a real one. And before anyone could say "Duke of Hastings," they were married.
Daphne found bliss and happiness in Simon's arms, and wants to start a family; but Simon's painful childhood is blocking the way to their total happiness.
"The Duke and I" started off lighthearted but it has moments where you truly feel for the characters. I like Daphne's strength and her determination to pull Simon out of the dark remembrance of his past.

I ordered this book right after I had finished reading "The Viscount Who Loved Me", and I must say I am not in the least bit sorry or disappointed. If before, in my most humble opinion, I thought Julia Quinn really did know how to write Historical Romances that were funny, entertaining, witty and heart warming (just to name a few adjectives that come to mind); then now, fellow reader, I must simply reinforce my previous opinion by stating that, not only does she know how to do it, but she does it superbly.
Daphne and Simon are well-drawn and developed characters, likable, intelligent, full of snappy remarks and the stuff Heroes and Heroines are made off. And that is not saying they are not all too human in their affections, reactions and fears. But, ironically, that is what makes them as remarkable as they are on paper: their actions. The story that ensues after their rather unexpected and not so formal/proper meeting lives up to anyone's expectations (and believe me, mine are usually a tad high) with unexpected twists and turns into their blooming romance... I rather not spoilt it for you, because you ought to discover them by yourself. What I enjoyed most from the book is Daphne's family, which is to say, her three (very charming, by the way) elder brothers' intromission and Violet's silent but successful good-natured meddling.
If you can, read first this one, "The Duke and I", which could be considered the first of the Bridgerton family series, and then go on to TVWLM. Now I understand better Anthony's behavior and reluctance in that installment, and look forward to reading the book once more, to see Daphne and Simon (their whole entourage, actually) in a brand new light. I hope Ms. Quinn will not let her dear readers down, and soon she will continue writing about this exquisite family. Who knows? Colin or Benedict could be next, with Lady Whistledown breathing invisibly down their necks, watching silently over them as only a devoted ..... could. TA TA!!

After reading THE DUKE AND I, I couldn't rest until I'd read all of Julia Quinn's novels. Luckily for me, I caught on a little late, when THE VISCOUNT WHO LOVED ME and AN OFFER FROM A GENTLEMAN and TO SIR PHILLIP, WITH LOVE and ROMANCING MISTER BRIDGERTON were all already available.

Daphne Bridgerton is the oldest girl in the famed Bridgerton family, in which the children are named alphabetically. Unfortunately, she has three older brothers (Anthony, Benedict, and Colin), and they're more than a handful for a debutante.

Simon Bassett, Duke of Hastings, is intent on avenging his anguished childhood by not siring an heir. He sees it as the ultimate revenge on his father for the title to pass out of the family. Thus, Simon sees it as unnecessary to get married. But the rabid society mamas aren't about to accept no as an answer when they're intent on marrying their daughters to him.

The perfect plan? Simon and Daphne (Simon's best friend Anthony's kid sister) will have a faux courtship. It will keep the attention at bay for Simon, and when Daphne "ends" their courtship, she will have much more attention since she'd gained the affections of a duke.

But a problem arises when the conspirators realize that they're intensely attracted to one another.

The tangible tension between Simon and Anthony when it comes to light that Simon and Daphne aren't just acting is wonderfully written. I fell in love with both Simon and Anthony in this novel.

Simon is a wonderful hero. He has his flaws, and struggles to overcome them, and he's not completely invulnerable. He's also not a complete wet blanket. His character is haunted by the past, but his personal problems don't overshadow the rest of the story.

Daphne is the perfect heroine. She's smart, spunky, and extremely stubborn. And she's not one of those nauseatingly whiney damsels in distress that it's so easy to find in romance novels.

I highly recommend this book. Trust me, all you romantics won't regret picking this one up.

This was my first introduction to Julia Quinn (when I read it about 5 years ago). I must say that it was an absolutely charming and heartwarming tale, one which I have frequently picked up over and over again over the years.

Daphne and Simon's tale is beautifully written, Ms Quinn knows how to draw you in to the characters and you feel as though you are right there with them, feeling their sadness, sharing their laughter and tears as the story moves along. When Simon broke down and told Daphne how his father had made him feel as a child, I felt every single emotion he must have felt at such callous treatment!

The introduction of Lady Whistledown also adds delightful comic relief and dry British wit to the story. Her character is absolutely hilarious and is highly entertaining throughout the story.

Ms Quinn's The Duke and I is a wonderful tale and is definitely a keeper for the bookshelves!

This novel is on an extremely short list of romances that I read again and again. I love all of Julia Quinn's novels--and have read every last one of them as well. That said, she has a couple--this one and THE VISCOUNT WHO LOVED ME--that I think reach a true pinnacle of emotion, romance, and chemistry.

Simon is a fine example of "tortured hero" at its most well done--he's plenty smart, has wrestled to overcome his disabilities, and is the talk of the ton to boot. But despite being a total rake, he has a vulnerable side, and not any invented or slight one: He truly has a painful weakness and past to overcome. His perfect companion, Daphne, is the one to push him past everything that holds him back from giving his heart completely. Rarely does a romance couple have such fabulous chemistry as these two--and trust me, I've read a *lot* of romance in my time. :)

If you want a great book to "jump into Quinn" with, I'd say make THE DUKE AND I your test run. I don't think you'll be disappointed!

This book was a very enjoyable, light easy read. I enjoyed the author's tone and fast pace of plot as I wasn't looking for a book which would require too much of my time or intellect. I am really looking forward to reading the rest in the series as I hope that I will enjoy the rest of the books even more. The first half of the book I genuinely cared for the hero and heroine and was drawn in and willing them together, however I was quite shocked by the heroine's actions later on in the book.

**********************SPOILER ALERT********************

The heroine, Daphne, disgusted me when she took advantage of the Duke in his drunken state. The Duke had deep reasons why he did not want children and for her to try to conceive in the way she did was beyond cruel. I do not understand how the author felt that this was acceptable and that what followed made up for that act. It was Daphne who had first off enticed the Duke into the garden which led to them being caught in an embrace which nearly got him shot. I would have preferred this book if the heroine was a bit more likeable. On a more positive note, I very much enjoyed the rest of the book and hope to enjoy the rest of the series.

This was the first Julia Quinn I picked up and it is still my favorite. Daphne Bridgerton is a refreshing and original character in a genre where so many heroines are cookie cutter copies of the archtypical independent Regency lady. Her relationship with Simon Bassett follows the comfortable formula of a Regency romance (he meets her, she is his pal's sister, witty banter occurs, they try to keep their hands off each other, they can't, romance and conflict ensue, conflict is resolved, and they live happily with each other) without being stale. Ms. Quinn's army of secondary characters is as endearing as the principals, and I hope that she plans to continue the story of the Bridgerton family. I have since read her other novels, and the "Duke and I" stands out among Ms. Quinn's other works and of the Regency genre at large.

This book is Julia Quinn at her best. Not only can she write a story that has both humor and wit but she can create a touching scene in just a few words. Pulling on your heartstrings in one paragraph and then making you cry with laughter in another! The friendship between Simon and Daphne was wonderful to read and the attraction from the word go was exciting to watch explode. I also think I know who the mysterious Author is but I don't want to spoil it for anyone! I can't wait to read Anthony's story ... it is sure to be a fabulous read!
If you enjoyed this book keep your eyes peeled for Julia Quinn's earlier books Splendid, Dancing At Midnight (which are soon to be re-released) and Minx! Each book is funnier than the next! Julia Quinn is priceless and perfection all rolled into one!

I have read all of Quinn's works (all that she has written for Avon, at least) and she just keeps getting better. I have liked and kept all of her books because I like her style of writing. Nothing heavy here and that's why I read. I'd rather be entertained by a light, witting and sometimes touching story than be tortured with reading about rapes and characters who don't talk to each other until the end of the book. I guess there are quite a lot of other readers who share my views, because Quinn is becoming extremely popular. Simon and Daphne, the main characters, blend so well together. While Simon might be sterotyped as the typical brooding hero, Daphne is the one who does enough talking for both of them. The secondary characters are also a treat. Daphne's mother, I thought, was hilarious! 'TDAI' has just the right mix of humor with a dose of tension at the end to make it a highly entertaining read. Quinn reminds me alot of Amanda Quick, another of my favorite writers. I'd probably rank this most recent work higher than five stars if I could. I thought it was that good.

The pace moves at a clip with no real slowing. The characters are witty, engaging, and extremely relatable. The Duke's past is a little too easily thrown over, but Ms. Quinn makes up for it by deftly handling the disability. Overall a well written and thoroughly entertaining romp with well engineered relations at the perfect moments. The book is a win.

I expected just another historical romance with a simple story. It was so much more than that! I couldn't be more wrong. Julia Quinn has an unique approach with lots of humor and character -focused plot, We feel like getting to know the rest of the family!

Fantastic book, very well written filled with amazing dialogue. I fell in love with this book, Julia Quinn is a goddess!

Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, the Duke of Hasting have come up wiht a great idea. Simon will play Daphne's suitor so she will have other men be interested in her. Its seem like a good plan because Simon has made it known that he will never marry, but fate and Daphne's brother finding them together alone makes them getting married for real. Simon is man who is haunted by the past, a past that may not allow him to have a future with Daphne.
"The Duke and I" is the second book that I have read by Julia Quinn and as before I have really enjoyed it. Ms. Quinn gives the reader character who are trying to over come real problems. Can't wait to read more from the "Bridgerton Series."

I enjoyed the Duke and I! Simon and Daphne are trying to accomplish the inevitable during the 'season'; she trying to finally catch a wealthy husband and he, trying to avoid all those looking for wealthy husbands. But alas, they find each other make a bargain which will enable the other to fulfill their goals for the season, however, neither considered falling in love part of the bargain. Towards the end it became somewhat 'sappy' but still enjoyable. I especially loved Daphne's brothers and their plan to wreak havoc on her marriage, however, I would love to see her brothers in love stories of their own. Simon eventually became a senseless bore and again, it proved that 'women' rule when Daphne's psychology opened Simon's mind, eyes, and heart.

This book starts off with so much potential, and the first half is truly enjoyable. Simon and Daphne have a sweet, easy relationship from the first; their scenes together pop. I find so often in romance novels, there is a lot of physical chemistry, and the emotional/mental chemistry is secondary (and sometimes feels like an afterthought). This is not the case in this book. I could see the two of them developing a deeper and deeper bond.

And then, when the conflict came to tear them apart, as plot dictates it must, things really started to go downhill from me. I stopped feeling the connection between characters, and I don’t feel that they ever got back to a place where their genuinely special connection showed...or even felt like it was really there. It was disappointing for a book with so much potential.

This was a wonderful, funny read. The author did a great job with developing her main characters, as well as the secondary characters - I loved the whole rambunctious Bridgerton crew! The tension between the hero and heroine was perfect, and their unfolding feelings for each other well-paced and realistic. The conflict/dilemma between the two kept the plot moving forward, but wasn't so emotionally wrenching that it negatively impacted the humor. I caught myself laughing out loud quite a few times while reading this one. A great start to the series. I'm looking forward to reading the rest.

Julia Quinn gets better with each book, and "The Duke And I" is definitely her best effort so far. I admit I find the much heralded "tortured and hence most developed" hero a bit of a stock hero, but it is Daphne who charms me, as did her family of fun and hilarious people.
Hence, with great repartees and humor, the romance in "The Duke And I" clearly sparkles. If one is in need of laughter and love, TDAI fits the bill perfectly. Are Daphne's siblings getting their own stories? I can't wait.
One star get deducted for a scary ten-year old that speaks as if she is possessed by the spirit of Queen Victoria.

Trust me, after you read this novel, you will want to jump in the book and join the Bridgerton family. Whether you read a novel about a male or female Bridgerton, trust me, you are in for fun. Daphne is a wonderful character and her relationship and courtship by Simon is thrilling. I love them as a match...and if you continue on in the series...you see their relationship continue as well.

Quinn's novels in the Bridgerton series outweigh any historical romance novel or series I have read. Her characters are complex, intriguing, witty, and intelligent. Her words make pages turn quickly. All in all, each novel is a success.

Personally, read these from 1-8th...don't start in the middle or you will miss half the fun. The series is wonderful. Enjoy them all, I guarantee you will.

"Cute" is the best adjective that describes this book. If you are looking for the hero who rips the clothes off of the strong but virginal heroine...forget about it in this one. Yes there is passion, but there is lots of funny dialogue and interaction between all of the characters in this book. The story centers on a young lord determined never to marry because of a horrid relationship with a father who wanted the perfect son and instead, got a son who stuttered. He disowned him until he found out that the son had achieved inspite of his neglect. By then it was too late. The young Lord forms a pact with the sister of one of his college friends so that they both can be protected from the marriage seekers of the "ton" and from there the sparks fly between the two of them, as well as the brothers who want to protect her. If you like cute "romance lite" you'll like this story.

This was my first Julia Quinn book and I really enjoyed it! Simon's childhood was so sad and his ability to overcome his difficulties was very touching. Daphne is a great, caring person and beautiful inside not just outside. Her family is a riot. The contrast between her family with brothers, sisters, lots of verbal combat and Simon's non-existence family is effective and dramatic. She helped to bring him into her family and world... It was very touching. Love the gossip columnist - have been thinking about who she may be through out the novel. Perhaps the mysterious author will appear in the next novel also?

This was a wonderful book! My first by this author. This was exactly the type of book I love to read. I loved the characters, who had such strong likeable personalities, they had a wonderful chemistry together. Daphne has a close nit family, which is cool. I also like a good historical book where the intimate parts come in after their marriage has taken place - as how it should be for the time it was written. Awesome book! I loved it. Now I am on to read the rest of the series! I'm sure they will not disappoint me either! Read this one - as the reviews show, everyone is right on with this book!!

This book now ranks as one of the best historical romances I've read in quite some time. Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, are interesting and appealing characters that made a good couple. I loved their relationship and banter and appreciated Quinn not trivializing the plot by creating silly tensions. The issues they dealt with were realistic and their responses true to character.

The dialogue is fast paced and pithy, which I like. Daphne's brothers provided perfect comic relief and the family matriarch, Violet Bridgerton, was a blessed surprise. While the romance wasn't steamy, it was...romantic.

I'm in for this series and cannot wait to start the next book. It's great that there are eight siblings for more stories.

This book is a tale of 2 people with an attraction towards each other. A girl who wants to get married and have a family, and an experienced male who very certainly does NOT want to get married. They kiss, get caught, and the man is faced with a choice between death via duel and marriage. And this man chooses death. The woman, of course, talks some sense into him and they get married. He beds her but refuses to orgasm in her, then he leaves her in his childhood home and travels abroad while she decides to return to her family in shame. I must mention, the first half of the book was wonderful with lots of amusing dialogue. It was just the second half of the book was not so good. Personally I didn't think that a forced marriage and a husband who refuses to orgasm within his wife to be all that romantic.
This book was shockingly similar to Love Only Once by Johanna Lindsey, right down to the protective older brothers, tryst in a garden, abandonment, family shame, and unusual circumstances of pregnancy. Thus, I will give it a similarly poor review. If you like reluctant and bitter romances, then enjoy this book. If not, save your money.

I have read and enjoyed all the books in the Bridgerton series. Although this was not my favorite(that would be Romancing Mr. Bridgerton) I love Julia Quinn as she is a step above many other trashy novels in the same genre. It was frustrating sometimes to read how Simon's background kept on getting in the way of his loving Daphne. It was also both amusing and annoying that Daphne's brothers kept on interfering in their relationship. I don't think that there was enough dialogue and [*] tension between Daphne and Simon. There were really only a handful of scenes.

This is the first book I have read by Quinn and I have enjoyed it immensely. It had been recommended by a friend and now it's my turn to do the recommending. Despite a few heavier scenes, I would call this a fairly lighthearted romance filled with fun and laughter. Don't get me wrong though. The heavier scenes kept the story from being too fluffy or shallow. In fact, I would say it rounded the whole thing off quite nicely. The Whistledown reporter was a delightful addition and I was left wondering who exactly she was. I look forward to the next Quinn book to see if we actually do find out her identity. I especially enjoyed the scenes where Simon joined the family for dinner and later an outing to Greenwich. Simon was a wonderful hero; strong, handsome, great sense of humor, and his one "inadequacy" was endearing, although HE might not think so. Daphne was a terrific heroine. Charming, witty, and if not wise in the world, wise in matters of the heart. But, for me, of course it was Hyacinth that stole the show.

While it may not have been the best I have read in the way of historical romances, it was still exceptionally good. The characters were very good and were well developed and drew your into the story. The storyline was a little different than normal in some ways and was interesting. The book seemed just a tad slow in the beginning but it definitely picked up soon after and was a quick and refreshing read.

The Duke and I is the beginning of the Bridgerton Series. Simon hated his father and has decided that his title will die with him until he meets his best friends sister. Everything and could go wrong with Simon's plans does - and it is so much fun to watch. Check out the whole Bridgerton series: #1: The Duke and I , #2: The Viscount Who Loved Me, #3: An Offer from a Gentleman, #4: Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, #5: To Sir Phillip, With Love, # 6 The Viscount who loved Me , #7: It's In His Kiss, #8: On the Way to the Wedding.

Am I the only reviewer who did not think it very admirable for Daphne to deliberately try to have a child, knowing Simon did not want one? And they she blames him??? I was amazed. Simon, who had a stuttering problem as a child, is a dark, brooding man who does not want to get married as his own childhood was awful. He is afraid to pass on his "defect" or perhaps fears too he will be a father like his father, which was not good. Daphne and Simon hatch a plot together to fake an engagement to a) have the women leave Simon alone and b) this will somehow make Daphne more marketable on the marraige mart. The story is okay the first half but, once married, is not very good. Can you please explain to me how it would be possible for Daphne, practically raised in the stables, is so ignorant about marrital relations? And she leaves Simon, thinking she might be pregnant with a Duke's heir, after she tricks him. I thought that was so shabby. And how in the world could her brother, Anthony, fault Simon for her leaving him? That too was illogical and was one of the many reasons the book was a loss. Simon frankly deserved someone better than Daphne. She should have gone to him and apologized, not the other way around.

I am aware that The Duke and I by Julia Quinn is a beloved favorite to many . . . and I was enjoying this novel too - until I got to the last third of the book, after the honeymoon is over and Daphene decides she really wants a baby....

if you haven't read this book and don't want it spoiled stop now!!!

1. Daphene is very immature as far as her actions regarding her desire for a baby. He made it very very clear to her that there would be no kids and I hate this issue in real-life to begin with b/c I personally think that this to be decided BEFORE marriage, so to me this looks like bad writing on Quinn's part, b/c the hero tells Daphene this and she still gets pissed later. Although Daphene's character might have some valid points - her delivery was all wrong and immature. (see point 3.)

2. He gets completely sh*tfaced drunk after her bitch-fest - this is a huge turn off (heroes must hold their liquor - they can be buzzing - but they can't be fall-over whiskey soaked drunk - obviously Quinn has never babysat for someone this drunk or she would've known how un-fun it is - even if you do love them with all your heart)

3. While he is drunk, she decides suddenly that she just can't resist him (again this is disgusting to me and drunks are NOT a turn on) and she decides to "seduce" him, and she mentions how she has "control over him". And you just KNOW that if roles were reversed and he did this to her - it would not sell. She does this b/c she wants to get pregnant - and this is wrong on so many levels to me, but I have to remind myself that women back then didn't really have adoption agencies or fertility clinics to go to if they wanted babies. . . ok whatever - but crap - if your husband suddenly tells you that he doesn't want to have a kid b/c of all his past baggage and you proceed to argue about it and he goes to to get drunk, "seducing" him to have his baby and hold him down by force IS NOT going to solve anything . . . *sigh* just when I thought the heroine was smart. Needless to say I don't think Quinn will be my cup of tea. Back to Lisa Kleypas I go.....

I wait for when Julia Quinn's books come out because I know that I will enjoy reading her books from start to finish. I loved Daphne. Her humor and her ability to manage her brothers brought smiles to my face. And Simon. What can one say. I don't remember another character that will admit so early in the story his feelings for the woman. He also managed to overcome his "handicap" without the support of his so called father. This book will definitely go on my favorite books bookshelf, along with all Julia Quinn's other books.

I have just completed reading three of Ms. Quinn's novels and they are all KEEPERS, the Duke and I, is so tender and loving, compassionate and FUNNY! This lady has a rare talent. Lord Anthony Bridgerton determined not to LOVE and Miss Kate Sheffield, the sister of the incomparable of the season. The most sought after bachelor whose heart is stolen without him even realizing it. She made me laugh, she made me cry, but most of all, Ms. Quinn leaves me yearning for MORE! Bravo Ms. Quinn! This novel is definitely a keeper!

I loved the beginning so much that I ordered the second book in the series only a few chapters into this one. However I REALLY disliked the heroine at the end after what she did in regards to trying to get pregnant. She started off so likeable but that kind of ruined her character for me

Daphne Bridgerton is the eldest daughter and trying to find a husband. Simon Bassett is a Duke and Anthony Bridgerston's best friend. Simon does not wish to marry (for reasons you'll learn in the book), but he and Daphne happen to fall for one another.

It is a fun novel with many humorous parts and the Bridgerton family is likeable and warm. However, I felt as though Simon was taken advantage of by Daphne. I'm taking 2 stars off because I felt Daphne's character was very manipulative.

WHEN HE WAS WICKED and AN OFFER FROM A GENTLEMAN were better books in the series.

This is my first Julia Quinn novel and definitely definitely not my last. I just loved this book!
Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, agree to pretend they are in a courtship in order to avoid the pressure of being flaunted in society as marriage "material". They do not count on falling in love with each other, but fall in love they do! The chemistry between these two characters sizzles, their dialogue constantly witty and fun. I love the fact that Simon is not the typical romance hero. Of course he is handsome, arrogant, and a rake. But he also has a weakness which I found completely endearing without detracting from his masculine appeal. The plot is fairly simple which makes it quite believable, but very interesting nonetheless. The secondary characters are excellently portrayed as well and I just cannot wait to go on and read their own stories

I fell in love with the Bridgerton's when I read "The Viscount Who Loved Me". After that I read all the sequels, except for The Duke and I. Now that I have read it, I feel like a void has been filled. This is such a funny, endearing romance, that will steal your heart from the first sentence. With subtle humor, and sometimes laugh out loud moments, and deep emotional scenes, Julia Quinn has penned an extraordinary novel. A big round of applause for Julia Quinn, and The Duke and I.

What a wonderful young writer Julia Quinn is. The words are fresh and so enchanting. You believe the love and hardships both Simon and Daphne experience and you are there with them every step of the way.

And I just adore the Bridgerton family. The most endearing family ever to grace the pages of any romance novel. I can't wait until Julia Quinn writes each and every one of their tales of love and mischief. And, pay close attention dear ladies, the Dashing Bridgerton brothers are especially inviting! It's so charming the way Ms. Quinn describes the love and protection the brothers give their young sister Daphne: always watching after her and making sure that no ill will comes her way (although occassionally they're a bit too overprotective, but it just makes one love and esteen them even more).

And I loved Lady Whistledown and her hilarious gossip column.

Ms. Quinn will now join my list of most treasured authors based on this book alone. Her eloquent writing is one of the best I've seen; I don't know if this will be the case in "The Viscount Who Loved Me" (the second installment of the Bridgerton family) or "An Offer from a Gentleman" (the third installment), or any other future readings of Julia Quinn, but I am most eager to find out!

I definitely-and wholeheartedly-recommend this book to anyone in need of escape from the drudgery of life to a world filled with romance, comedy, and a whole lot of fun. Happy reading...

Reading The Duke and I got me started reading all of the other Julia Quinn books. They are all as great as her newest title. I loved all of them. Julia is an extremely funny writer who is a joy to read. Her characters are bright, funny, articulate and a lot of fun to follow.
All of the characters in The Duke and I are a lot of fun. We have the usual rakes just waiting to be reformed and properly married off. We also have the society maiden, sparkling and full of fun, but not quite ready to be drawn into the expectation of society. The character which comes as a bit of a surprise is the main heroine's mama, Violet. Her family and friends see her as nothing more than fluff. Her children adore her, but avoid her. What they are missing is that she leads her family just the way she wants them to be led without anybody being the wiser. The hero is also a bit of a surprise with a disability which has not been covered very often (or as effectively) in the romance world.
Read The Duke and I. It's a lot of fun. Then check out Ms. Quinn's other books. If you like Jude Deveraux, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Amanda Quick, you will like Julia Quinn. I promise.

I have read all of Quinns books and find her Bridgerton series to be the best of her works. Within the series are some true gems of books - this is not one of them.

I think the book had the potential to be a great story as I found the chapter about the main character Simons childhood to be well written but Simons past wasn't really made much use of other than to explain why he hated his father. He is a rake who upon arriving in England after a lengthy absence encounters Daphne, the younger sister of his best friend. We don't get much of a background on her other than her interactions with her large family.

There was a lot of humorous events in the book which make this a light enjoyable holiday type read although if you are looking for historical romance then this isn't really it - it's not been well researched at all and reads like a modern day romance in costume. (which some people may enjoy)

I won't go into more detail about the plot but what I liked about the book were the inputs from Whistledown and characters such as Lady Danbury - who we don't really hear much from. I also love the interactions between all the siblings throughout the books (one of the reasons I love this series)
However, I do have to say is I found Daphne's character to be extremely manipulative throughout the book and this really put me off this book - Quinns idea of a feisty woman who gets what she wants is seriously off the mark here.

Anyway, if you want a really good book in the series I would recommend Benedict's, Colin's or Eloise's books - which I adored.

Also similar to this author is Lisa Kleypas (whose books are amazing!)

I would recommend it in order to understand and enjoy the other Bridgerton books better but this is definitely not a book I'll be reading again.

Julia Quinn has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and this book was partially the reason. I started with Romancing Mr. Bridgerton and worked my way backwards...and I LOVED this story.
Daphne is someone you can...well, LIKE! :)) And Simon...he's a human hero that you can love. You just have the feeling that these two are the answer to each other's prayers from the very beginning, and every step they take closer to realizing it is a good one.
Great book!

Historical romances are the only kinds of romantic stories i ever read, and I have read hundreds,but The Duke and I is one of the best.Julia Quinn is great, combining a heart touching tale of laughter,tears,family,passion, and above all love.the whole Bridgerton series is definately a must have and a collection any romantic reader should have. i cannot wait to read her latest book,"To Sir Phillip,with love", I am sure it is going to be just as great.

After all the buzz and rave reviews, I expected this book to become one of my favorites... instead I found myself dissapointed. For one, I have read my share of regencies and am a little bored with the genre. And while Quinn's novel is delightful and sweet in parts, the core of it follows a typically trite regency plot line... The ball, the scandelous kiss in the garden, the duel, the marriage, and happily ever after. You know the drill.
Aside from the brainless and cliched plot, I found the novel quite likable. Throughout the book, I found myself wondering who the mysterious Lady Whistledown could be (the editor of a society paper who seems to have spies all over London), and even confess to flipping to the end of the book to find out. I was also more than won over by the hero, who's traumatic childhood stuttering has left him with hidden scars. As a reader, I have a weakness for stuttering heroes and heroines (remember Olivia, from Jane Feather's Brides Trilogy), and found myself warming to Simon immedeatly. Best of all, there is a fleeting reference to the immortal Pride and Prejudice, which perhaps saved the book in my eyes.
As a whole however, the story was just too boring, too... regency. I was more entertained by the Author's notes and the short bio on the back cover than the trials and tribulations of Simon and Daphne's life in the ton. If you love regencies, you'll love the book (and probably hate me for writing this review). But if you, like me, find yourself at odds with the genre, try picking up Loretta Chase's "Lord of Scoundrels", a regency of a different breed.

Loved it.... continuous read! When you look at the clock, you notice it's almost midnight! But, your mind says, "so what.... Keep reading" you know everything about is on target. The characters, the plot and the story line bring joy to the reader! On to book two, I will start it tonight, too!

I think I could read this book again and again. I wish there was a bit more of Simon in the other Bridgerton books. The thing I love most about Quinn's books is that there isn't too much denial in the characters when it comes to attraction for one another. Especially this book and Benedicts story, the love was declared early on and it made me, as the reader, more comfortable in reading through the conflicts. Also, there is something about the friendship between two big handsome guys that really catches my attention. Oh just get it and read it!

All right, I've just got to admit it: this book was incredible. It tells the story of two young people. One, Daphne Bridgerton, from a grand family with 8 children who are named alphabetically, and the other, Simon Basset, a very disturbed, yet very debonair and intelligent, young man. The two put up a ruse that they were attached, so that Daphne would get more suitors, but they ended up falling for one another instead. There's a wild tangle full of romance afterwards and ended happily ever after.

The Reason why this book did not receive five stars was because of Simon. He had serious mental issues. And I found myself saying all through the book, especially when he practically had a hemmorhage upon being seduced by his wife "GET OVER IT! MOVE ON TO SOMETHING BETTER! YOUR FATHER WAS AN [], DON'T LET HIM DICTATE YOUR LIFE!" Of all the Bridgertonnovels, I rank this third.

Another witty and enjoyable entry from Miss Quinn reminiscent of Georgette Heyer at her best but with sex. The romance of Daphne and Simon is told with humour and filled with fun characters. Miss Quinn manages to produce sparkling conversation and plenty of fun while building a highly enjoyable and light romance.

Having read all the Bridgerton books last year, I remember liking this one the most and wanted to reread it. I was not disappointed. It was laugh-out-loud funny at a number of points with completely lovable characters. What I liked about this one and missed in the rest of the series was the older brothers protectiveness and aversion to marriage. Overall, it is just a delightful, lighthearted, quick read.

I really loved this book! It was both humorous and endearing - with a lot of depth! The dialogue is full of the witty reparte of which Julia Quinn has always excelled! The characters are richly drawn, and you will fall in love with the hero, the heroine, and her adorable family. What I especially liked about this book is that the characters really *talk* to each other.
Julia Quinn keeps getting better - and I know that I am definitely looking forward to her next book, which I hear is related to this one!

After all the buzz and rave reviews, I expected this book to become one of my favorites... instead I found myself dissapointed. For one, I have read my share of regencies and am a little bored with the genre. And while Quinn's novel is delightful and sweet in parts, the core of it follows a typically trite regency plot line... The ball, the scandelous kiss in the garden, the duel, the marriage, and happily ever after. You know the drill.
Aside from the brainless and cliched plot, I found the novel quite likable. Throughout the book, I found myself wondering who the mysterious Lady Whistledown could be (the editor of a society paper who seems to have spies all over London), and even confess to flipping to the end of the book to find out. I was also more than won over by the hero, who's traumatic childhood stuttering has left him with hidden scars. As a reader, I have a weakness for stuttering heroes and heroines (remember Olivia, from Jane Feather's Brides Trilogy), and found myself warming to Simon immedeatly. Best of all, there is a fleeting reference to the immortal Pride and Prejudice, which perhaps saved the book in my eyes.
As a whole however, the story was just too boring, too... regency. I was more entertained by the Author's notes and the short bio on the back cover than the trials and tribulations of Simon and Daphne's life in the ton. If you love regencies, you'll love the book (and probably hate me for writing this review). But if you, like me, find yourself at odds with the genre, try picking up Loretta Chase's "Lord of Scoundrels", a regency of a different breed.

Loved it.... continuous read! When you look at the clock, you notice it's almost midnight! But, your mind says, "so what.... Keep reading" you know everything about is on target. The characters, the plot and the story line bring joy to the reader! On to book two, I will start it tonight, too!

I think I could read this book again and again. I wish there was a bit more of Simon in the other Bridgerton books. The thing I love most about Quinn's books is that there isn't too much denial in the characters when it comes to attraction for one another. Especially this book and Benedicts story, the love was declared early on and it made me, as the reader, more comfortable in reading through the conflicts. Also, there is something about the friendship between two big handsome guys that really catches my attention. Oh just get it and read it!

All right, I've just got to admit it: this book was incredible. It tells the story of two young people. One, Daphne Bridgerton, from a grand family with 8 children who are named alphabetically, and the other, Simon Basset, a very disturbed, yet very debonair and intelligent, young man. The two put up a ruse that they were attached, so that Daphne would get more suitors, but they ended up falling for one another instead. There's a wild tangle full of romance afterwards and ended happily ever after.

The Reason why this book did not receive five stars was because of Simon. He had serious mental issues. And I found myself saying all through the book, especially when he practically had a hemmorhage upon being seduced by his wife "GET OVER IT! MOVE ON TO SOMETHING BETTER! YOUR FATHER WAS AN [], DON'T LET HIM DICTATE YOUR LIFE!" Of all the Bridgertonnovels, I rank this third.

Another witty and enjoyable entry from Miss Quinn reminiscent of Georgette Heyer at her best but with sex. The romance of Daphne and Simon is told with humour and filled with fun characters. Miss Quinn manages to produce sparkling conversation and plenty of fun while building a highly enjoyable and light romance.

Having read all the Bridgerton books last year, I remember liking this one the most and wanted to reread it. I was not disappointed. It was laugh-out-loud funny at a number of points with completely lovable characters. What I liked about this one and missed in the rest of the series was the older brothers protectiveness and aversion to marriage. Overall, it is just a delightful, lighthearted, quick read.

I really loved this book! It was both humorous and endearing - with a lot of depth! The dialogue is full of the witty reparte of which Julia Quinn has always excelled! The characters are richly drawn, and you will fall in love with the hero, the heroine, and her adorable family. What I especially liked about this book is that the characters really *talk* to each other.
Julia Quinn keeps getting better - and I know that I am definitely looking forward to her next book, which I hear is related to this one!

Now, granted this is a romance novel so you have to keep this in prespective. Do I think this book will win the Pultzer prize for writing? No. Do I think this book will make a signifcant contribution to literature? No. But if you are looking for a book with funny characters and romance, then this is a great book that meets all that criteria. She bulids up the characters and the supporting cast to make them somewhat believable and the witty dialouge is pretty funny. It's the first in the Bridgerton series, and in my opinion, the best, although I highly recommend Romancing Mr. Bridgerton if you like the character Colin, and The Viscount Who Loved Me which is about the character Anthony. The rest of books in the series are OK but those other 2 books, and this one, are highly entertaining and fun to read. Definetly a good way to spend a rainy afternoon at home.

The Duke and I is a great book. Simion Basset is a duke who has sworn off love from the begining, and resloved never to marry. Daphne Bridgerton has sworn to marry ONLY for love. The two strike up a deal to court each other, but only in public places to keep out of the way of the Tons matchmakers. But what happends when they realize that the game is all too real? Julia Quinn writes a superb book, and I have read every other one in her series, and recomend them all. None of the books have a 'dry spot' and the characters are well protrayed. I have to say, this is a MUST READ BOOK!

This novel flowed beautifully and there was never a dull moment. It had the ingredients for a great romance book: love, drama, comedy and a wonderful ending. I will be reading more of her books-definitely the Bridgeston family. Looking forward to Anthony's story.

I absolutely love a book that grabs your attention from the first chapter and then keeps it for the entire book. The Duke and I did that for me. The author devoloped the characters in a way that made me feel connected to each one of them, even the secondary characters.

I loved the fact that the main male character was not perfect, he was even a little insecure.

If you are turned off by the usual cookie cutter plots of most historical romances then this book is for you. It's got a lot of humorous scenes as well as touching family scenes.

This book was fantastic! This was the first book by Quinn I had the great luck to find and read. The story is imaginative with dialogue both witty and tender. The characters are so wonderfully created, that you can't help loving them. The Duke wins your heart immediately and it was easy to cheer on the spirited Daphne. I plan to read all of the books that are related to the Bridgerton family and other creations from the artisitic Ms. Quinn

The first half of this book was great. The second half, not so much. I truly started to get irritated with Simon and his baggage. Thought he continued to be too unreasonable and ended up come off as a cry baby. Daphne was a great heroine, but I would have had to knock some sense into that boys head about 2 months sooner.

I wouldn't consider myself a fan of romance novels, but I'm a sucker for Regency England. I picked up this book not knowing what to expect and was delighted. The Duke and I and the second in the series, The Viscount Who Loved Me, had me laughing out loud at times. There's humor with romance, and the characters are believable. Sure, it ends predictably with happily every after, but isn't that why we buy it in the first place? The dialogue was refreshing, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself, finishing both books in two days. I recommend this novel highly!

This is the first book in the Bridgerton series and if this book is any indication of how good the series is going to be I can hardly wait to read the rest of them.
This book has everything that is trademark JQ with all of her humor and wit. And don't forget unforgettable characters and romance. This book is a great way to spend the weekend. If you love JQ books you will love this one.

As this was my first Julia Quinn novel, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. As a great fan of that old romance/suspense combination, I admit I was a little wary of buying something that didn't seem to have that combination...As it turns out, that was the greatest choice I ever made!
Daphne and Simon made me giggle and sigh..something I don't often do while reading books. The coversations were witty, and the language itself was flowing. I read a lot, not necessarily romance novels and seldom have I seen a book flow with such delightful prose as this one did.
I promise that this book will be worth every penny and that you'll rush out and order all her other books (which incidentally are for the most part..splendid).

Julia Quinn's books have always been a favorite. I regularly read about 4 to 6 books a month and this one has by far been a heart capturing tale about 2 people learning tolove themselves and each other. It was very hard to put this book down.

This is the first Julia Quinn I have read. It took a total of 6 hours for me to read "The Duke and I", I just couldn't put it down! It was funny, sweet, romantic and irresistable. I hope she continues with another book on Anthony, Benedict, and Colin. I bet they can get into some sticky situations.

I just finished reading this book. I could not put it down. The characters were great. I cried and laughed. There were times while I was reading the book that I almost missed my stop. I hope that Julia Quinn continues the series with the other Bridgeton sibilings.

Julia Quinn is one of the best authors I've ever read - definitely the best regency writer so far! - I've read EVERYTHING she's written. Her stories are humorous, romantic and interesting - and she is excellent and creating characters that are real, interesting people - and that you remember vividly from book to book throughout the series. You want to know them better! In "The Duke and I" you meet the Bridgerton family and get to know a few of family members quite well and once you do, you will not be able to wait to read the next book in the series! I just read the latest (which just came out) and I'm impatiently awaiting the next!!! Write fast, Julia!!!!

One of the things I like best about Ms. Quinn's writing is the humor. All her books are exceptional, but The Duke and I is more so. She has romance, but she shows family ties, not just honor, but a bond that is a strong emotional commitment to each other. A mother who always knows what her children are about, as if she has a sensory that connects to each child. This knowing is displayed in a very funny way. Every page you read makes you want to read another. The anticipation of what is to happen is always with you. Ms. Quinn is definitely a 5 star writer, and The Duke and I is evidence of it.

This is the first in the Bridgerton series and a great novel that had me crying I was laughing so hard. Daphne and Simon are both great, entertaining characters. I especially loved the fact that Simon, who has overcome a stuttering problem and a father who rejected him, has a sense of humor. It is great to see a tortured hero who can still be funny. This is definitely a fun way to spend an afternoon.

I thought most of this book was very good and very well written, and I like the spirit of all the Bridgerton women; however, the very idiotic reasoning behind Simon not wanting to marry Daphne and willing to die for it had me shaking my head in disbelief. Not one of my favorite of the series.

This was an excellent book - funny and realistic dialog, quirky characters, and a hero who needs love so desperately. I hope Ms. Quinn writes about the other Bridgertons - the other 7 siblings deserve stories of their own, especially Anthony, Benedict and Colin.

I don't know why, I do not keep Ms. Quinn's books, I love reading them and have read everyone she has written. "The Duke and I," has humor, and it is a very easy read. This book has a little mystery and makes you think as you read. The characters are well developed as a matter of fact you can just about picture them as you read. Simon's speech problem was handled in a very realsitic way that made you feel sympathy and pride for how Simon accomplished this. I really like the inperfect characters. Daphne's ignorance added humor, which I liked and gave the story line a interesting twist. I know there will be sequels to this book, because the brothers were so well developed. I am very happy that Ms. Quinn writes so fast and we will not have to wait years to read the other books.

I've read "To Catch a Hairess" and was not impressed much. This book, however, has all the elements I admire. Great couple, marvelous supporting characters, lively conversation... I did not like the ending, but the I can take only so much sweetness and light.

Daphne is totally enchanting, but Simon is one of the most lovable heros I have ever encountered. I totally fell in love with him, cried with him, laughed with him.
One of my favorite romance novels of all time, one I will keep and re-read over and over again.

As a long time fan of Julia's, I am always eagerly waiting for her to put out a new book, and once again she did not disapoint! This book is wonderful. You will fall in love with Simon in the first 30 pages, and Daphne will delight you with her humor...not to mention the witty "Lady Whistledown" and her Society Pages. The Duke and I will leave you wanting more...I can't wait until the next one comes :)

This was my first Julia Quinn novel, after reading so many good reviews of her work...I wanted to start from the beginning with the Bridgerton series. The characters were wonderful, and many times you will feel emotions just as strongly as Daphne and Simon. They are a wonderful couple and reading their story was a treat.

Julia Quinn once again combines humor, friendship, and love to create a masterpiece. Simon and Daphne are an enjoyable couple who first find friendship and then love. The secondary characters are a hoot, especially Daphne's mother. And I have no doubt that you will love Daphne's brother's.
Be prepared to put household chores and sleep on the backburner when you start this book, I did and was disappointed to see it end.

It always amazes me how big the variance of opinions is with some books. I found every character one dimensional, everyone constantly witty and cheerful. Even Simon, with his literally unbelievable backstory (it's not as if he embarrassed his dad in front of his worst opponent or anything), could not help himself. The second star goes for the witty dialogs that did work, which were about a fraction of the efforts.

I really loved this book. I have read some of Julia Quinn's other books and found them entertaining - but this is her best. I couldn't put it down and read it in one afternoon and night. Then couldn't sleep for thinking about Simon and Daphne. Please, please tell me there are going to be sequels - I want to read Anthony and Colins stories.

The first quarter of the book is essentially one long conversation and ridiculous happenings at a ball. I was thinking the book would be suitable for a young person until suddenly we were in detailed and pornographic sex, and I must say for a girl who didn't know the basics the heroine sure figured it out fast. The brothers are department store mannequins, standing around glowering. Quinn's books are usually silly and I always forget and pick them up again after a couple of years. I had another of hers in a different series at the same time and it was even more unlikely.

This is a great story! I loved Daphne from the very beginning and couldn't put the book down. I read it through the night and with no sleep, had a pretty long day at work, but it was worth it. I'm about to start the second book in the Bridgerton series, The Viscount Who Loved Me, and I'm sure I'm going to love it too. Good job Mrs. Quinn.