A review by jaedee09
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn

emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

If you've read the book or any reviews, you know why I had to rate this low. I enjoyed it all the way up to "that" scene and just couldn't get past it. I've watched the show (and am currently re-watching it), but was disappointed to find that the book version still existed. There were any number of ways to give Daphne and Simon a regency version of a "third act breakup," but I couldn't get past marital r*pe. Glad they worked through Simon's issues, but it didn't seem like Daphne had much character development outside of learning about sex. Loved all the side characters!

 Personal Bridgerton Rankings:
1. When He Was Wicked (Francesca and Michael)
2. It’s in His Kiss (Hyacinth and Gareth)
3. On the Way to the Wedding (Gregory and Lucy)
4. To Sir Phillip, With Love (Eloise and Phillip)
5. Romancing Mr. Bridgerton (Colin and Penelope) 
6. The Duke & I (Daphne and Simon)
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