Aww, this was such a cute book. I read it in one day - couldn’t put it down because I was having SO MUCH FUN with the Bridgertons (I don’t think I even ate properly during those 24 hours xD). Albeit the last part made me roll my eyes a couple of times, but pregnancy and baby drama usually makes that part of my anatomy behave in such manner - and there’s nothing I can do about it.
This was my first Julia Quinn novel and I was very impressed by her writing. I can’t explain exactly why, but I found her style a bit different from every other historical romance I've read until date - which was a good thing.
I loved the heroine Daphne, her vividness, her innocence, her caring manner, her teasing, and the way she snaps at her brothers when she has to. But seriously, I had a blast with every character, no exception, for they are all hilarious. The Bridgerton family is portrayed in such a funny, lovely way, that I often wished I was some distant cousin and could jump in there, so I could have fun with them. I can’t even decide if I was sorry for Daphne or not with the whole business of her brothers being jealous of her suitors (the main reason why the girl is still a spinster), because that situation makes way to so many great scenes, and of course, kept her free for Simon.
So far, Anthony is my favorite brother, just because he would always make me laugh my head off with his “WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?!” moments. The poor guy…backstabbed by his best friend who dared to break the Thou Shalt Not Lust After Thy Friend's Sister golden rule! *eheh* (Get a grip, Anthony.)
As I’m sure I’ve made it clear, there’s more to this story than just the romance, since I barely mentioned it, but of course this book is first and foremost about Simon and Daphne, about how they'll get together despite his daddy issues, and her jealous brothers. And it was sooo nice to watch them interact. I couldn't get enough of it, especially when he's "fake"-courting her. So cute! I will admit the last part was a bit corny though. (Too many I love you-I love you too scenes! But hey.)
No doubt I’ll be reading the next one in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it. Can’t wait to see how this complete nonsense of falling in love, getting married, having to deal with jealous (and dangerous - murderous really) family members, is going to find Anthony and bite him in his perfectly shaped arse.

My The Duke and I cast:

Gemma Arterton as Daphne:


Henry Cavill as Simon:


(Oh! I forgot to mention the scene when Daphne's mother explains her what happens on the wedding night. My God...I had to put the book down for a couple of minutes, and find a tissue to wipe the tears of laughter running down my face. Great comedy moment!)