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The Duke and I (Bridgertons #1)

by Julia Quinn (Goodreads Author)

4.13 of 5 stars 4.13 · rating details · 23,561 ratings · 1,092 reviews

Can there be any greater challenge to London's Ambitious Mamas than an unmarried duke?
— Lady Whistledown's Society Papers, April 1813

By all accounts, Simon Basset is on the verge of proposing to his best friend's sister, the lovely—and almost-on-the-shelf—Daphne Bridgerton. But the two of them know the truth—it's all an elaborate plan to keep Simon free from marriage-mind...more

Paperback, 339 pages

Published June 30th 2010 by Piatkus Books (first published January 1st 2000)

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Oct 04, 2010 Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of light Regencies with a bit of angst

Shelves: historical-romance, owned-copy, a-to-z-author-challenge-q, regency, part-of-a-series, less-than-perfect-hero-or-heroine, tortured-hero, nerd-prof-scientist-genius-geek, shotgun-marriage, hero-i-liked, heroine-i-loved, family, married-couple-romance, reluctant-to-have-kids, favorites, brothers-and-sisters

When I read a book, I want to become involved emotionally. A book that does that is more likely to be highly rated. Such was the case with The Duke and I.

I have a sickness, an infatuation for tortured, dark, conflicted heroes. The happy-go-lucky guys don't capture my imagination nearly so much as their darker counterparts. Fortunately, Simon was tortured enough to keep me happy.

The beginning of this book was brilliantly done. I was already captivated with Simon, the future Duke of Hastings. My h...more

35 likes · like · see review

May 20, 2012 Laura the Highland Hussy rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

2.5
A lot of my GR buddies love this book, and a few have recommended it to me. So I ordered it, and up until a certain part in the end, I really was enjoying it.

I won't feel bad about the spoilers in here, because this is an older book, and a ton of people have read it.

I liked Daphne, and I really liked Daphne and Simon's interactions, witty reparte, banter. all of the above. Obviously they were meant for each other, and not in the sickeningly sweet sort of way. They were fun to watch together....more

26 likes · like · see review

Aug 07, 2012 Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult

"Save your pathetic words," Anthony spat. "I'll see you at dawn."

Please let there be a duel. Pleeeeaaasssse let there be a duel.

One sec, flipping the page. *pause* Damn...no duel.

"I've always known that I wasn't the sort of woman men dream of, but I never thought anyone would prefer death to marriage with me."

3.5 stars. I would have definitely gone for a solid 4 star had there been a duel. What a missed opportunity that was! There are more brothers in this family; it wouldn't have been a b...more

18 likes · like · see review

Jun 12, 2009 Rane rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: regency-romance-napoleonic-era, georgian-romance, pure-fluff

Ah my Gentle Reader, this Reviewer is pleased to report, that one cannot argue against; I loved this book.

It was fun to read about Simon and Daphne finding each other through angry brothers, duels, crazy marriage mind mamas and a few misunderstandings along the way. The banter between the was laugh out loud funny as were some of the arguments .

Simon was a great hero, dealing with his past and the treatment his father dealt him at such an early age, making it his goal in life to prove his fathe...more

16 likes · like · see review

Sep 10, 2010 Shawna rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of regency romance, steadfast heroines, & tortured "I can't give you what you want" heroes

Shelves: historical-romance, julia-quinn, historical-romance-regency, library-available, aar-top-100-romances-2007-2010, series-bridgertons, 2010-reads, brothers-sisters-cousins-family, favorites, friends-to-lovers, hero-abused-scarred-tortured-angst, hero-alpha‎, hero-darcy-paragon-haughty-staid, hero-cad-rake-rogue‎-scoundrel, heroine-kickass-spirited-strong, heroine-naïve-virgin-like-a-virgin, heroine-tomboy-lady-in-pants, hh-deaf-mute-speech-disorder, humorous-at-times-or-fluffy-fun, angsty-dark-heavy-lotsa-drama, married-couples-married-convenience, offlimits-bf-likekidsister-jailbait, pregnancy-fertility-baby-kids-drama, hero-bad-boy-playboy, hh-physical-mental-disability-ill, sweet-romance-left-smile-on-my-face, i-read-own-faves-keepers, favorite-romance-series, best-top-favorites, hh-aristocracy-nobility-royalty, 5-stars, hero-duke-heir-to-dukedom, feel-good-read-pick-me-upper, best-wittiest-banter-dialogue, controversial-memorable-event-scene, faux-betrothal-engagement, hero-titled-wealthy-lord, dubious-consent-force-nonconsensual, a-all-time-best-of-best-fave-dik, hero-brooding, hero-silent-quiet-type-reticent, hero-starchy-loosen-up-buttons-babe

5 stars – Historical/Regency Romance

My introduction to author Julia Quinn was with the books The Lost Duke of Wyndham and Mr. Cavendish, I Presume, and I wasn’t at all impressed and found them really boring. Several GR friends told me they aren’t her best books or indicative of her other works and that I should give her popular Bridgertons series a chance. I’ve had several of JQ’s books on my TBR shelf for quite a while now, and after mourning the end of two of my favorite HR series, Lisa Kleypa...more

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Aug 19, 2008 Eastofoz rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Readers who need a good pick me up read

Shelves: historical-regency

This is a really good 4.5 star read. It doesn’t make 5 stars because it’s missing just a little bit in the steam department I thought. It’s one of those books that has you smiling from beginning to end—so don’t read it in public unless you don’t mind having a dorky smile plastered on your face and people no doubt staring at you like you’re a bit weird ;-)

It’s well written, funny and you just can’t help but love the Bridgerton family but it’s not in the least bit hokey. You really want to read ab...more

11 likes · like · see review

Feb 07, 2012 Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Historical Romance fans

Recommended to Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* by: Sann, Saskia

Shelves: author-julia-quinn, books-i-go-rabid-over, ebooks, covers-to-covet, drinks-on-me, favorites, first-book-in-series, genre-historical-romance, king-of-the-harem, my-hottie-harem, read-in-2011, keep-a-spare-pair-of-knickers, the-hymen-club, series-bridgetons

Posted on Under the Covers

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...more Posted on Under the Covers

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!(less)

10 likes · like · see review

Jan 01, 2013 Elisabete rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, 2012, julia-quinn

Simplesmente maravilhoso! Um lindo romance com muito humor à mistura, definitivamente uma série a seguir. Estou ansiosa pelo próximo livro, o do irmão protector e melhor amigo Anthony Bridgerton XD

7 likes · like · see review

May 30, 2010 LibraryLass rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: keeper, 2008, h-romance, re-read, 2010, series

Fantastic book! I read this one years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it but for some strange reason I never kept up with the series (I think I read 1 or 2). My library was recommended the series (they don't buy too many HR) and I remembered the Duke and I and decided to buy the series for myself. Of course me being me, I had to wait to get the whole series before starting to read it. Well worth the wait.
Quinn takes an old tired plotline and makes it literally sparkle. She uses wit to get her point a...more

9 likes · like · see review

Feb 15, 2010 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance-series, author-julia-quinn, 2010-reads, reviewed-by-me, romance-historical, 4-stars, first-read-of-an-author, series-bridgerton-quinn, first-in-series

My Review:

This was an entertaining read. I loved Simon, the ‘tortured from childhood’ soul, and Daphne Bridgerton, the one woman who could rescue him from his bitter, angry existence, and give him a future filled with happiness, family and the love he never dreamed he could have.

The family interactions were highly amusing in the way Daphne’s siblings protected her honor even when she didn’t want it protected. Another fun side to this book was the inclusion of Lady Whistledown’s gossip columns wh...more

14 likes · like · see review

Oct 25, 2009 FlibBityFLooB rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: made-me-laugh, historical, era-regency-pre-victorian, read-in-2009, witty-i-am-not

Why is there a stigma involved with reading a romance novel? I was embarassed to check this out from the library, even knowing that I needed a book for a goodreads.com challenge where the author started with the letter Q.

This author is Harvard educated. She writes well. The story was amusing and poignant. I should not be ashamed to enjoy the happy-ever-after story. I need to get over my prejudices.

I believe I will read another in this author's series. And, I will try to not be so red-faced when...more

5 likes · like · see review

Feb 08, 2010 Julie (Mom2lnb) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of Regency Romance or Tortured Heroes

Shelves: desert-island-keepers, historical-romance, read-2010

Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Up until I was about 150 pages into The Duke and I, I was beginning to think I had started my second much-lauded romance series in a row, only to be sorely disappointed with it, but somehow Julia Quinn managed to pull out all the stops during the second half of the book and make me forget most of my frustrations from the first half. The two halves almost seemed like they were written in completely different styles. The beginning of the book wasn't bad, but it...more Reviewed for THC Reviews
"4.5 stars" Up until I was about 150 pages into The Duke and I, I was beginning to think I had started my second much-lauded romance series in a row, only to be sorely disappointed with it, but somehow Julia Quinn managed to pull out all the stops during the second half of the book and make me forget most of my frustrations from the first half. The two halves almost seemed like they were written in completely different styles. The beginning of the book wasn't bad, but it did dip down into the just OK range for me a few times. This part is extremely dialog heavy, and while there is some clever and witty repartee, the conversations can also drag on a bit too long. Most of the early chapters are virtual wall-to-wall dialog (great for dialog junkies, but utterly exhausting for an introvert like myself to read) punctuated with occasional passages of prose that more closely resembled narration than character introspection. This made it very difficult for me to get to know or develop a connection to the characters. Considering that most of what occurred during the first half were family interactions, I realized much later that Ms. Quinn was likely using this part of the book to set the stage for the Bridgerton series by giving readers insights into the family dynamics of the Bridgerton clan. There is very little relationship building between Simon and Daphne except for Simon attending a few Bridgerton family functions, and the couple having an attraction for one another that makes them wish that their pretend courtship was actually real. The sexual tension is very minimal, with the hero and heroine not kissing, nor barely even touching, until that halfway point. I did enjoy getting to know the Bridgertons and adored the loving, close-knit feel of their family (one I wouldn't mind calling my own), but I couldn't help but tire of the excessive amount of light, social chitchat, and found myself wishing for some deeper and more meaningful interactions. Well, I got my wish approximately halfway in, when the dialog began to take a more serious turn, the prose became more introspective, and both became much more balanced. The tension between Simon and Daphne ratcheted up almost instantaneously as they share a passionate encounter that leads to all sorts of angst and difficulties to overcome, which was what I had been so desperately longing for. From this point on, the story was top-notch and almost sheer perfection for me.

After reading the heartbreaking prologue about Simon's childhood, I was fully expecting him to be a thoroughly tortured hero. Because of the weaknesses in the first half of the book, I did begin to question my assessment, but I shouldn't have worried. Simon's mother died in childbirth and his father was a cold man who never showed him an ounce of love, and in fact, reviled him for having a stutter. In spite of, or perhaps because of, his father's rejection, Simon stubbornly set out to be the very best he could be. He was incredibly intelligent, and with the help of his gentle, caring nurse, he learned to control his speech, and was able to enjoy a prosperous education even though his father tried to deny him that as well. Simon grew into a good and kind man, but he was also deeply embittered and resentful toward his father after years of constant emotional abuse and had vowed never to marry or have children of his own because of it. Simon truly didn't realize just how much the anger was eating him up inside or how desperately he needed to love and be loved in return until Daphne came into his life, shining a ray of hope into his darkness.

In sharp contrast to Simon's upbringing, Daphne's had been brimming full of love, laughter and unbreakable family bonds. She is sweet and kind to everyone, including one annoyingly needy and pathetic suitor. Coming from a large family, she wants nothing more than to marry and have children, but unfortunately, she has become the girl that every guy wants to be friends with, but no one wants to marry. Then she chances to meet Simon, one of her brother, Anthony's best friends from school, and they strike up an alliance to pretend that they are courting, so that he can avoid being the object of every unmarried girl's attention and she can attract more attention from better quality suitors. Simon and Daphne become the best of friends, finding it very easy to talk to each other and thoroughly enjoying each others presence. Of course, they both end up wishing that their charade was real, and when that finally happens, it brings with it plenty of joy but also heartbreak. Daphne is a highly intuitive young woman who has a great grasp on male behavior and deftly handles the men in her life. She understands Simon far better than he understands himself, and seems to instinctively know what he needs. I loved her zest for life and her positive attitude. She was definitely a doer who wasn't afraid to get in the middle of things and stir them up, but she also had a knack for bringing clarity to some of the most difficult circumstances. Daphne was just an all-around, likable character, who I think was a perfect match for Simon.

As one might expect with the heroine having a big family, there is a very large supporting cast. All of Daphne's siblings are introduced in this book, but her three older brothers, Anthony, Benedict and Colin play the biggest roles. This trio can be quite meddlesome and over-protective, but it all comes from a deep love for their sister, so I couldn't help but adore them for it. I think perhaps his support of Daphne and his devil-may-care attitude made Colin stand out to me just a bit more than the other two, but I look forward to seeing what stories Julia Quinn has in store for all of them. Violet is a wonderful mother to her brood of eight. I really admired the way that she could keep them all in line, including her grown sons. Violet is an intelligent woman who sees far more than her children think she does, and she is an extremely loving mother with whom they can discuss almost anything, except perhaps sex. I totally cracked up when Violet had “the talk” with Daphne on the night before her wedding, and the pursuant misunderstandings that occurred on Daphne's wedding night as a result of her mother's reticence were hilarious too. I discovered through Julia Quinn's website that a couple of characters from her previous books have cameos in The Duke and I, specifically Lady Danbury from How to Marry a Marquis. There is also a brief mention of Riverdale (James Sidwell), her nephew and the hero of that book. I have to say that I'm thoroughly intrigued by the fictitious gossip columnist, Lady Whistledown, and can't wait to find out who she is. I spent the better part of the book making speculations, but I'm not sure that any of my guesses are correct.

The Duke and I is the first book in Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series. There are eight books in the series with each of the Bridgerton siblings getting their own book. Anthony is the hero of book #2, The Viscount Who Loved Me, and they continue from there in the order of the character's ages with the exception of the final two. There are also two anthologies featuring Lady Whistledown that are considered to be honorary Bridgerton books. Julia Quinn is working on 2nd epilogues for each of the books in the series. Six out of eight of the books have these 2nd epilogues available for purchase in e-book format through the author's website, but unfortunately, The Duke and I is not currently one of them. Ms. Quinn says that when she finishes the remaining two there are plans to publish all of them in a single paperback volume, and I look forward to seeing more of Simon and Daphne when their 2nd epilogue is written. The Duke and I may have gotten off to a rocky start for me, but it ended spectacularly, making it almost impossible for me not to give it keeper status. This was my first read by Julia Quinn, and I am now really looking forward to continuing the series and reading more from her. I just hope that from here on out her dialog and prose will equalize much earlier in the story.(less)

6 likes · like · see review

Dec 14, 2008 Martha rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Martha by: Elizabeth Aldridge

Shelves: paperback, romance, romance-historical, julia-quinn, julia-quinn-bridgerton-series, romance-regency, read-in-2008, 5-star-reads

I loved this book! I read it several years ago, but I've read so many comments recently here on Goodreads about Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series that I just had to re-read them all.

This is Daphne's story. Daphne is the fourth of the eight Bridgerton siblings. As the oldest daughter, she is being pressured by her mother to choose a husband and get married. (The mother, Violet, is a wonderful character -- I absolutely love her!) Enter Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings, who is a friend of Daphne's old...more

4 likes · like · see review

Sep 15, 2012 Mafi marked it as to-read · review of another edition

Shelves: pt, complete-series

Tão lindooo *.* quero!

4 likes · like · see review

Jul 02, 2012 Adriana rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Este livro, foi até agora, o meu romance de época favorito a par de "Prazeres Proibidos".
Experimentei esta autora pela primeira vez devido às boas opiniões que tenho lido e não podia estar mais contente por isso.
O livro é fantástico. Tão envolvente que comecei a ler ontem à tarde e tive de o acabar de madrugada porque não conseguia parar de ler.
Quando um livro não me deixa dormir, e me faz ficar a lê-lo até de madrugada é porque o livro é viciante.
A escrita da autora é muito envolvente e alic...more

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Mar 22, 2012 Cátia Santos rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-reads

Já tinha lido opiniões muito positivas em relação a esta autora, especialmente Eno que concerne a este série. E por essa razão há já muito tempo que queria iniciar a série dos Bridgertons.
E após a leitura deste livro, o primeiro da série, posso afirmar sem sombra de dúvidas: em boa hora o fiz!
O livro é maravilhoso, com uma escrita envolvente e divertida, com uma grande dose de romantismo.
Os personagens são fantásticos, desde a mãe dos Bridgertons, o irmão mais velho da protagonista até as senho...more

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Dec 29, 2011 Erika rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, ladies-of-quality, favorite-series, favorites

4.5 stars

The Bridgertons are by far the most prolific family in the upper echelons of society. Such industriousness on the part of the viscountess and the late viscount is commendable, although one can find only banality in their choice of names for their children. Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth— orderliness is, of course, beneficial in all things, but one would think that intelligent parents would be able to keep their children straight without needi

...more

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Dec 21, 2011 Jessica B rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, own, kindle, julia-quinn, 2011

What a great story! It captured my attention right from the prologue and I had a very hard time stopping once I got started. It was one of those effortless love stories that keeps you up all night because you just want one page more.

Simon is a duke, of course. Who had a particularly bad childhood because he had a stammer and his father treated him as if he was dead. Daphne is the 4th child of the Bridgertons. Three older brothers, three younger sisters and one younger brother all have their own...more

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Jul 21, 2011 Nisha rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historicalromance, sibling-s-best-friend, marriage-of-convenience-or-arranged, audiobook, friends-to-lovers, opposites-attract, tupping-a-duke, super-large-family-series

**Audiobook Review below original review**
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This is another book that I decided I needed to reread to finally write a review. I'm glad I did because during the first time through, I must have had scrambled eggs for brains, because I thought that it was merely mediocre. In hindsight, I was young and naive, with only a few HR novels under my belt.

Daphne Bridgerton is nice, but hardly garnered the attention from the ton that any of he...more **Audiobook Review below original review**
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This is another book that I decided I needed to reread to finally write a review. I'm glad I did because during the first time through, I must have had scrambled eggs for brains, because I thought that it was merely mediocre. In hindsight, I was young and naive, with only a few HR novels under my belt.

Daphne Bridgerton is nice, but hardly garnered the attention from the ton that any of her brothers did. So when an unsuitable and stubborn suitor's attentions leads her into Simon Basset's arms, things get a little more interesting - that is, until he discovers that she is his BFF's little sister. Given his childhood impediment and parental rejection, Simon vowed never to get married, so dallying with Daphne isn't really the best way to go about it, but its ok if they pretend that they are besotted. This way, Daphne would be the toast of the town for intriguing a Duke, hopefully enticing more male attention, while Simon gets some reprieve from all those 'marriage-minded mamas'. (Ok, that has the to officially be the dumbest plan anyone could have schemed - especially when they have an obvious attraction toward each other) Somehow, nature takes its course and marriage is the product - but will Simon ever overcome his father's ghost to be with his wife and have children? or would he alienate the one person who would ever love him unconditionally?

I liked Daphne and I liked Simon. I even liked them together, but their plan to fool the ton was a little juvenile. But I guess it was a way to maintain a friendship and create opportunities when they can fall in love. Simon's insecurities was really heart-wrenching, and given my more mature outlook, it was very believable. How many books have a hero who stutters? and then hates his father for years of rejection?

The Bridgerton family is absolutely splendid. I look reading about the overprotective trio, Anthony, Benedict, and Colin. And they are still single. Daphne fits really well with her family, that it was very easy to relate to her. The other female Bridgertons were not as 'normal'.

Frankly, the quality of this book is astounding. To reread this after having just read the last 2 books, its apparent how disappointing those are.

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This is would be my 3rd time reading this. This time, as an audiobook. It was marvelous as an audiobook. Actually, I believe any book written by Ms. Quinn should be listened to as an audiobook. She writes so beautifully and her lines should be heard, not merely read.

I highly recommend the audiobook, so now I'm off to listen to book 2.(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Apr 04, 2013 Sara ♥ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, books-i-own, challenge-winter-2009, 2010, challenge-fall-2010, historical, 2013

April 3-4, 2012

What a great book!!! LOVED rereading it! :)

April 1, 2007

(#1 in the Bridgerton Series)

Another fine example of Julia Quinn's amazing prologues. This one was about Simon (another of Lady Danbury's nephews), who has a BIG ISSUE with his father. (His mother died during childbirth, so wasn't around to mediate.) You see, Simon didn't speak until he was four (although he could already write) and when he DID, he stuttered REALLY BADLY, and his father, who had been soooo excited to have an...more

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Dec 05, 2009 Jeannette rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult-fiction, romance

I don't normally read "romance" novels, but I promised a friend I would give this one a try. I enjoyed the storyline: the widowed duchess with her eight lively children and her quest to find a husband for the oldest daughter; the stuttering son of the duke, who strives to best his cold-hearted father. I even liked the romantic pairing between Daphne and Simon. But, I just don't like all of the sex that runs through the story. Where Darcy admires Elizabeth's fine eyes, Simon is admiring other thi...more

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May 18, 2013 Ne rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: biblioteca

Alguém me conhece explicar porque é que esta família não é real e eu não os conheço pessoal e intimamente?
Alguém me explica porque é que eu não sou a melhor amiga de Daphne para estar sempre rodeada por aqueles irmãos?

Desde o primeiro encontro deles, à cumplicidade entre mãe e filha, aos bailes até ao charme dos irmãos este romance é suculento até mais não. É de derreter uma leitora até ficar em estado liquido!
Pronto, dá para ver o quanto eu gostei deste romance, que começa de maneira muito car...more

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Apr 10, 2011 Kinga rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fluff, guilty-pleasure, l-o-v-e, sexy-and-lovely

'The Duke And I' relies on all romance and romantic comedies authors favourite premise - a pretend relationship. Somehow two people find themselves having to pretend they are in love with each other and inevitably, and to their own embarrassment, end up falling in love for real. Sadly this never happens in real life. Well, the falling in love for real part doesn't happen. Pretend relationships do. And they usually involve a significant sum of money and a passport.

[here be the spoilers]

Despite...more 'The Duke And I' relies on all romance and romantic comedies authors favourite premise - a pretend relationship. Somehow two people find themselves having to pretend they are in love with each other and inevitably, and to their own embarrassment, end up falling in love for real. Sadly this never happens in real life. Well, the falling in love for real part doesn't happen. Pretend relationships do. And they usually involve a significant sum of money and a passport.

[here be the spoilers]

Despite the unrealistic premise, there is a lesson to be learnt from 'The Duke And I'. Our heroine Daphne falls for her 'pretend' suitor - Simon, Duke Hastings. Simon seems to like Daphne alright but he refuses to ever get married or have children. And let's face it, ladies, this is a situation many of us will face at some point in our lives.

And usually we will go about it all wrong. We will think the way Daphne thought:

"And she thought - what if she kissed him? What if she pulled him into the garden and tilted her head up and felt his lips touch hers? Would he realize how much she loved him? How much he could grow to love her? And maybe - just maybe he'd realize how happy she made him".

So she kissed him. And guess what? That didn't fucking work (the more experienced ones of you had already known that). No marriage proposal followed.

That's when Daphne changed her approach. Do you want to know how it is done?

You need a brother, or in absence of a brother, a father or a male friend would do, as long as they have a gun. You need to have that male relative or friend of yours point the gun at your chosen on and tell him that either he marries you or he will be shot dead. Now, the Duke (as any other sensible man) initially chooses death but Daphne just needed to talk some sense into his head. Eventually, if you are as lucky as Daphne, you will strike an agreement with the Duke, that he will marry you, but there will be no children. Say yes. One step at a time.

A couple of months later you are the Duchess, have estates all over England and a dashing husband who is giving it to you day and night but always withdrawing to make sure that there will be no children as per agreement. You, of course, as any 21st century girl, would know the reason behind withdrawing right away, but Daphne needed about 60 pages to figure it out as she knew little about this whole baby business. But as soon as she found out, she didn't waste anymore time.

This is how you get babies Daphne-style from your no-babies husband - you need to make him really angry or do something so he ends up drinking himself stupid. Once this is accomplished, put your completely drunk husband to your bed and wait.
Now, that's the crucial part. You need to time it right. You need to get him at the moment when he is sober enough to be able to perform but still drunk enough to let you have your way. When you decide to moment has come, get on top of him and ride him like there is no tomorrow. Do not let him throw you off until it is all done. (You can practice on those bucking bulls simulators at fairs).

Believe it or not, but all this will make him love you till death do you apart. Trust me.

And if you think I am making any of this up, I am not. It was all in this book.(less)

8 likes · like · see review

Dec 13, 2011 Jess rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for_review, historical, favorites, family_sibling_series

Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads

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 imag...more Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads

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.(less)

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Nov 13, 2011 Mary B. rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle-books-i-own, romance, romance-historical-european, marriage-conv-forced-arranged, part-of-a-series, tortured-past, intensely-disliked-hero-or-heroine

I really enjoyed this book. And I spent nearly all day today finishing it despite the fact that I had too many other things to do (that didn't get done, by the way). The banter between the hero and heroine was fabulous, and their chemistry was expertly crafted. Simon was a beautifully tortured hero whose story definitely tugged at one's heart. I liked Daphne, too. She was tough and feisty without being annoying. She stood up for herself and responded to conflicts and situations with thoughtfulne...more I really enjoyed this book. And I spent nearly all day today finishing it despite the fact that I had too many other things to do (that didn't get done, by the way). The banter between the hero and heroine was fabulous, and their chemistry was expertly crafted. Simon was a beautifully tortured hero whose story definitely tugged at one's heart. I liked Daphne, too. She was tough and feisty without being annoying. She stood up for herself and responded to conflicts and situations with thoughtfulness and intelligence. The Bridgerton family dynamic was also well-developed in this book. Since this is the first of a series, there is the necessary world-building and stage-setting for the rest of the books, but fortunately it did not overpower the central romance, as series firsts are often guilty of doing.

This is the first Julia Quinn book I've ever read, and I do enjoy her writing style. This book revolved around the upper-crust of English society, and I'm generally not a fan of those types of books.

Some serious issues I had with the book -

(view spoiler)

It was a highly enjoyable read despite the above issues. (less)

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Jun 28, 2010 Suzanne the Mighty ~Satin Seductress~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 1-series-i-am-rabid-about, historical-romance, author-julia-quinn, funny-funny-har-har

The Bridgertons are a large loving family, containing eight children: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth, and their widowed mother Violet. As each approaches marriageable, Violet becomes the terror of the ton a matchmaking mama. First up is Daphne.

This is one of my favourite series, although it offers nothing new up in terms of plot, I find I am always drawn to the chaotic warmth of the Bridgerton family. What I find unique about this series is the well dra...more The Bridgertons are a large loving family, containing eight children: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth, and their widowed mother Violet. As each approaches marriageable, Violet becomes the terror of the ton a matchmaking mama. First up is Daphne.

This is one of my favourite series, although it offers nothing new up in terms of plot, I find I am always drawn to the chaotic warmth of the Bridgerton family. What I find unique about this series is the well drawn characters that are in each story and are introduced first in this book; I find that you rarely seem to get this kind of development in secondary characters in other historical romances. Although the Bridgerton family is a large one, you get a feel for the different siblings, with the impressions and characters building up so when they get their own book you feel you know them quite well. My particular favourites in this book was Anthony, the eldest brother, doing his over protective older brother act, it was both funny and lovely as you can see how much he cares for his sister.

Now the romance in this book was between Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest female in the clan, and Simon Basset, the new Duke of Hastings. Although you know exactly what is going to happen, I like seeing their growing romance, although there is little sexual tension between them, sometimes it felt more like a friends to lovers kind of scenario, it was sweet and very funny, they have some witty repertoire between them. Daphne was a delightful heroine, she was funny and sensible and very likable. Simon is somewhat of a tortured hero; however, Ms Quinn doesn’t go down the dark brooding hero route, and her book stays light hearted throughout, but in my opinion that doesn’t make the books inferior to those that do, it is an unashamedly light hearted, funny and sweet romance.

What also added levity to these books was the extract of the Whistledown column; I really love this idea and looked forward to reading the extract of the column at the start of each chapter. It was a fun way of introducing information, and letting you see the characters from another point of view. I look forward to the future book when her identity is revealed.

I would recommend this for those looking for a funny romantic read, with lots of amusing dialogue and well drawn characters. Although this may not be original, it is well written and entertaining and will keep a smile on your face whilst reading it.
(less)

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Feb 08, 2008 Tammy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, keepers, reunion-romance-theme

Julia Quinn has the ability to write some of the funniest and most realistic dialogue. I've really enjoyed her Bridgerton series and the "Duke and I" is (so far) one of my favorites.

I really like the fact that Julia Quinn can take a predictable, over-used plot and put a spin on it, claiming it as her own. Simon Basset at first appears to be your typical cliched', tortured hero. Denied the love and affection of his father because of a childhood stutter, Simon eventually overcomes his stutter and...more

7 likes · like · see review

Dec 17, 2012 Kathleen rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed, series-opener, regency, historical-rom

Still working on writing reviews for all my old reads. I have never been totally crazy about Julia Quinn, but some of her books are good, if formulaic and slightly self-aware. The Duke and I is horrifying.

Daphne marries Simon knowing full well that Simon does NOT want to have children. Ever. For a variety of reasons, some of which are misconceptions. But bottom line, he was honest with Daphne up front about not wanting kids.

So...about 75% into the book, she deliberately seduces Simon when he is...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 10, 2009 Becky rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2009, quinn-j

(Bridgertons,#1) I love the Bridgerton family! Daphne and Simon have great chemistry. Anthony’s head-of-the-house protector role was overdone. And, let’s be honest, did Daphne really deserve what Simon did to her? I like the mystery behind Lady Whistledown.

3 likes · like · see review

Oct 23, 2008 ♡KarLynP♡ rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-2008, genre-historical, top-100-favorites, steam-warm

A sweet, romantic historical. I've read this series completely out of order, but they all work as a stand alone. This is one of the best in the series (Viscount Who Loved Me is another big fav)

3 likes · like · see review

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About Julia Quinn

#1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn loves to dispel the myth that smart women don't read (or write) romance, and in 2001 she did so in grand style, competing on the the game show The Weakest Link and walking away with the $79,000 jackpot. She displayed a decided lack of knowledge about baseball, country music, and plush toys, but she is proud to say that she aced all things British an...more

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Books by Julia Quinn

The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgertons, #2)

Romancing Mister Bridgerton (Bridgertons, #4)

The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever (Bevelstoke, #1)

An Offer From a Gentleman (Bridgertons, #3)

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Quotes from The Duke and I

“Men are sheep. Where one goes, the rest will soon follow.

-Lady Whistledown” — 139 people liked it

“Where is he? Bridgerton!" he bellowed.
Three chestnut heads swiveled in his direction. Simon stomped across the grass, murder in his eyes.
"I meant the idiot Bridgerton."
"That, I believe," Anthony said mildly, tilting his chin toward Colin, "would refer to you.” — 132 people liked it

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