The Duke and I, by Julia Quinn, 4 stars

[NancyJ]

I think most people here have heard of this book and the TV series The Bridgertons. This is a regency romance set in London, where all well to do mothers work hard to help their daughters find eligible men to marry. A rich Duke would be ideal.

I wasn't sure I wanted to read this book due to some of the negative reviews, but I really enjoyed it. Actually, maybe my low expectations helped me to like it even more.

I liked the characters, flaws and all, and the humorous situations. One section had me laughing for at least five minutes nonstop. I liked the way the relationships developed. The main conflict was one that was new to me. It gave the book more emotional depth. I know that some people were upset by one controversial scene, but I didn't see it the way some did.

The author wrote a second epilogue (some years? after she wrote the book) to show us what life was like for the characters many years later.

[Robin P]

The series does have a lot of humor, that's one aspect I like.

[Nicole R]

I keep going back and forth on whether I want to read these or not despite the fact that I LOVED the show.

My reading pace is abysmal this year and I think I may just stick to the show for now. Save these for the future!

[Theresa]

Nicole R wrote: "I keep going back and forth on whether I want to read these or not despite the fact that I LOVED the show.

My reading pace is abysmal this year and I think I may just stick to the show for now. S..."


I read very little but cozy mysteries and regency and contemprary romance during those early years as an associate. My brain could only handle LIGHT!

Just flow with whatever you manage, Nicole. It eventually gets better.

[NancyJ]

Nicole R wrote: "I keep going back and forth on whether I want to read these or not despite the fact that I LOVED the show.

My reading pace is abysmal this year and I think I may just stick to the show for now. S..."

I would probably wait too. I didn't see the show, so I can't compare them, but I suspect the show is adding more than it's taking out, so you're not missing much. Reading the book now might just create confusion. I'm sure longtime fans will have some more relevant opinions.

But if the show gets pulled before it's done, then you might want to get the books to read the epilogues and second epilogues about the future.