So I jumped on the Bridgerton train a little late, but y’all! I absolutely loved the new Netflix show, even my hubby enjoyed it. I’ve always enjoyed period dramas, and this one moved to the number one spot of favorites. I didn’t realize it was based off a book series though until I started watching it. The first thing I did once I had the chance is pick up the audiobook and dive in. If you haven’t read the book and enjoyed the show or you enjoy historical romance with a touch of snark, I highly recommend you grab a copy asap.

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn is the first book in her widely successful series Bridgerton about a rather large family finding happiness and love in regency London. This book follows Daphne Bridgerton as she sets off to find a husband and the Duke of Hastings who refuses to marry.

Daphne is a treat. She is not what you’d expect of a character set during this time period. She speaks her mind, isn’t actually ready to marry, and pleasant to be around. She doesn’t see the other society ladies as competition and is happier in the corner laughing with her brothers than being trotted out to every eligible bachelor in town. Then she meets Simon.

Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, has the reputation of being a cad, but in reality he is anything but. He keeps to himself and hasn’t been to town in several years. Planning to attend one party to see his old friend, Anthony Bridgerton, and then leave, Simon isn’t prepared to lose his heart to a woman.

I love how the relationship between Daphne and Simon develops naturally through the book. The friendship they begin is the foundation of their relationship and nothing could be better than that. The banter is perfect, and the steam is well steamy