The Duke and I by Julia Quinn 3 stars

[Cheryl]

The Duke and I is the first book in the Bridgerton series. Daphne Bridgerton wants what most young ladies want a husband and a family. Unfortunately everyone likes Daphne, but no one is smitten with her. What she doesn't want is her mother hovering and pushing her at eligible gentlemen. Simon, the duke of Hastings, wants to visit London, but doesn't ever wish to get married or have children after his horrible childhood. Together Daphne and Simon decide that a pretend courtship is just what they need. Things don't work out quite like they planned. Adding to the story is the anonymous author of a gossip sheet who goes by the name Lady Whistledown and seems to know all of the secrets and goings on of society,
This was a cute, quick read that is somewhat predictable in places. Lady Whistledown remains a mystery in this book, but I'm sure we'll learn more about her in later volumes.