Rating: ★★★★☆ 

Genre: Regency Romance

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn is the first book in the now much-beloved Bridgerton series. These books were popularised by the runaway success of the Netflix adaptation, but have been around for a while. Set in Regency London, the novel centres around Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings. The story unfolds in the glittering ballrooms and stately homes of the aristocracy, with all the expected social intrigue and romantic drama.

Daphne is the fourth of eight siblings (all named sequentially after the letters of the alphabet, which for some reason I find adorable in its lunacy). It’s Daphne’s debut in society this year, and she is on a quest to find a suitable husband. Enter Simon Basset, recently returned to London to settle his late father’s estate and adamant about avoiding marriage. To escape the pressure from eager mothers and to boost Daphne’s desirability, they concoct a scheme. A brilliant if somewhat simplistic scheme to pretend they are engaged. Predictably, the line between pretence and genuine affection begins to blur, leading to a series of romantic and dramatic entanglements.

Note: If you’re wondering where I got my editions of Bridgerton, they’re Illumicrate limited editions and unfortunately are not currently in print. They’ve done a couple of print runs of this, I missed out the first time, but managed to snag a set on the reprint. If you’re desperate for them try buying second hand on eBay, but otherwise I’d suggest following Illumicrate and keeping an eye out for another print run. BUT be aware the last update they made was to state that they’re not planning to do another run any time soon, so please stop asking!

Daphne’s Journey In The Duke And I

Let’s talk about the main characters in The Duke and I because they are really what make the story so captivating. First, we have Daphne Bridgerton. She’s not your typical Regency-era debutante. Daphne is strong-willed, intelligent, and has a refreshing determination to find true love. She’s not just looking to make a good match; she wants a marriage like her parents’, filled with love and respect. Her resilience in facing societal pressures to marry well makes her really relatable and endearing. You can’t help but root for her as she navigates the complicated social season.

And then there’s Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings. Simon is the perfect brooding hero with a troubled past. He’s complex and multifaceted, with a deep-seated vow never to marry, which stems from his difficult relationship with his father. This adds so much depth to his character and the romance. Watching Simon struggle with his growing feelings for Daphne while trying to maintain his vow creates such compelling tension. His character growth throughout the story, as he learns to confront his past and open up to love, is one of the highlights of the book. Together, Daphne and Simon’s dynamic is electric, filled with witty banter, emotional depth, and, of course, plenty of romantic tension. Their journey from fake engagement to real love is full of ups and downs, making their story both heartwarming and engaging.

What Is “The Ton”?

In the context of Regency-era England, ‘the ton’ refers to the fashionable elite of society, often synonymous with high society or the aristocracy. The term ‘ton’ is derived from the French word ‘bon ton’, meaning good manners or good taste. It encompasses the upper echelons of British society, including the nobility and wealthy gentry, who were influential in setting trends in fashion, manners, and social conduct.

Members of the ton attended exclusive social events such as balls, dinner parties, and country house gatherings. These events were not only occasions for entertainment but also crucial opportunities for social networking, matchmaking, and maintaining one’s status within the social hierarchy. The social season, typically running from spring to early summer, was a key period for these activities.

Admittance to the ton was highly selective, often determined by birth, wealth, and marriage. Newcomers had to be sponsored by established members, and reputations could be easily made or ruined within this tight-knit circle.

In literature and popular culture, including Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series, the ton plays a significant role, providing a backdrop of glamour, intrigue, and societal pressures that drive the characters’ actions and relationships.

Witty Banter At Its Finest

Julia Quinn’s writing is truly engaging. She’s got this witty, lively style that makes the dialogue sparkle and adds a lot of humour to the romantic drama. The banter between characters, especially between Daphne and Simon, is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, which really helps to balance out the more serious moments.

Then there’s the setting. Quinn does a fantastic job of bringing Regency London to life. The detailed depictions of everything from the opulent ballrooms to the intricate social customs pull you right into the period. You can almost hear the rustle of silk dresses and the murmur of gossip at the soirées.

Character development is another strong point. Both Daphne and Simon undergo significant growth throughout the story. Watching them navigate their personal struggles and evolve as individuals, as well as a couple, is compelling and satisfying. Their journey towards love feels earned and realistic, which makes their happy ending all the more rewarding.

However, there is a notable con that’s worth mentioning. The novel contains a controversial non-consensual scene that has sparked considerable debate among readers. This aspect can be quite jarring and might affect the enjoyment for some, as it raises significant ethical issues. It’s a tough moment in an otherwise delightful read and definitely something to be aware of going in. I won’t go into the specifics as it totally ruins the plot, but I found it uncomfortable to read, and while I can understand the character’s motivations behind it, I do not find the reasoning worthy of justification for their actions.

It was straight up wrong, and should never have been done. That said, to err is human, and in all romances there are mistakes to be navigated. 

For me, this mistake was unforgivable. Personally, I’d never get over it if someone did this to me, or in fact if I ever – in the heat of the moment and furious over their actions – did it to them. I feel it would ruin what was a wonderful love and, at the very least, leave it tainted.

Overall, The Duke and I is a captivating blend of wit, romance, and period charm.

Comparison to the Netflix Series

Fans of the Netflix adaptation of Bridgerton might notice some differences in character portrayals and plot details compared to the book The Duke and I. Notably, the series includes additional characters and subplots not present in the book, such as the expanded roles of Queen Charlotte and the Featherington family. These additions enrich the narrative and add layers of social intrigue to the storyline.

One significant addition in the Netflix series is the character of Queen Charlotte, who does not exist in the books. Her presence adds a regal oversight and additional drama to the social season, enhancing the show’s historical context and tension. The Featherington family also sees an expanded role, with Marina Thompson’s storyline being considerably different. In the series, Marina is a cousin of the Featheringtons and has a prominent subplot involving her secret pregnancy and attempts to secure a marriage to Colin Bridgerton. This character does not appear until much later in the book series.

The “great experiment” in the series refers to the diverse casting and inclusion of characters of colour in prominent roles, which is a departure from the book’s predominantly white cast. This choice has been praised for adding depth and modern relevance to the story, highlighting issues of race and inclusion within the context of Regency-era London.

Overall, while the core romance and dramatic essence of The Duke and I remain true in the Netflix adaptation, the series’ additions and changes provide a fresh take on the story, making it accessible and engaging to a contemporary audience.

How Spicy is The Duke and I?

Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)

The Duke and I definitely turns up the heat, especially compared to other Regency romances. The novel includes several detailed and explicit scenes that contribute to the chemistry and intensity of Daphne and Simon’s relationship. These steamy moments are integral to the plot, especially considering the significant conflicts surrounding their intimacy.

The spice level in this book is quite high, making it stand out in the historical romance genre for its bold approach to sensuality. If you’re someone who enjoys a romance novel with a healthy dose of passion, you’ll likely appreciate the steaminess of The Duke and I. However, it’s worth noting that the explicit content is central to some of the story’s pivotal conflicts, which may be more graphic than some readers expect from a typical Regency romance. ​For readers who appreciate romantic tension and detailed intimate scenes, The Duke and I delivers a captivating and spicy read that perfectly complements the emotional depth and historical charm of the Bridgerton series.

What Genre Is Bridgerton’s The Duke And I?

The novel primarily falls within the genre of Regency Romance, a subgenre of historical romance set during the early 19th century in England. This period, known for its strict social hierarchies and elaborate courtship rituals, provides a rich backdrop for the novel’s romantic entanglements and societal pressures.

Historical Accuracy

When it comes to historical accuracy, The Duke and I takes some liberties typical of romance novels set in historical periods. Julia Quinn’s writing is more focused on creating an engaging and romantic narrative rather than adhering strictly to historical facts. Here are some points to consider:

Social Customs and Manners: The book accurately reflects the rigid social customs and elaborate courtship rituals of the Regency era. The depictions of balls, afternoon calls, and the importance of social status are well-portrayed.

Dialogue and Modern Sensibilities: Quinn infuses her characters with a sense of modern sensibility and humour, which makes the dialogue snappy and relatable to contemporary readers, even if it might not be entirely reflective of Regency-era speech.

Diverse Representation: The Netflix adaptation of The Duke and I has notably added a modern twist by including a more diverse cast and characters of colour in prominent roles, such as Queen Charlotte. This was a deliberate choice to reflect contemporary values and inclusivity, which wasn’t a focus in the original novel.

Fashion and Setting: The descriptions of fashion, settings, and lifestyle in the book do give a good sense of the opulence and elegance of the period, though they are often romanticised for the sake of the narrative.

Overall, while The Duke and I offers a charming and immersive glimpse into the Regency period, it is designed more for entertainment and romance rather than strict historical accuracy. This approach helps make the story accessible and enjoyable for modern readers, even if it bends some historical truths for the sake of a compelling narrative​.

The RomCom Element

Additionally, The Duke and I incorporates elements of romantic comedy, with its witty banter and humorous situations, and a touch of drama, given the emotional and social conflicts the characters navigate. The combination of these elements creates a richly textured narrative that appeals to fans of historical and romantic fiction.

What Romance Tropes Are In The Duke And I?

Trope Count: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

The novel is rich with classic romance tropes that add depth and charm to the story. Here are some key tropes that you’ll find in this delightful Regency romance…

Fake Relationship

The central trope in the story is the fake engagement between Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset. They agree to pretend to be engaged to make Daphne more desirable to other suitors and to help Simon avoid the matchmaking mothers of London. This arrangement adds a delightful tension and charm to the narrative, as their pretend affection begins to turn into genuine feelings​​.

Brooding Hero

Simon Basset is the quintessential brooding hero. He has a troubled past, particularly with his late father, which has led him to vow never to marry or have children. This internal conflict adds significant depth and intrigue to his character and his burgeoning romance with Daphne​​.

Witty Banter

Julia Quinn’s writing is known for its humour and witty dialogue, and The Duke and I is no exception. The playful and sharp exchanges between Daphne and Simon enhance their chemistry and make the novel an engaging and enjoyable read​​.

Marriage of Convenience

Although the fake engagement is the initial setup, it eventually leads to a marriage of convenience. This trope further complicates their relationship as they navigate their true feelings while being bound by societal expectations and personal vows​​.

Societal Pressure

Both characters face significant pressure from society. Daphne is under pressure to make a good match, while Simon is determined to resist the societal expectations of marriage and fatherhood. These pressures shape their decisions and add layers to their characters’ development​.

These tropes are skillfully woven together to create a story that is not only romantic but also rich in character development and emotional depth. Julia Quinn’s ability to blend these elements makes The Duke and I a standout in the historical romance genre.

The Verdict On The Duke And I

The Duke and I is a delightful start to the Bridgerton series, combining romance, drama, and humour in a richly detailed Regency setting. Despite some problematic elements, it remains a compelling read for fans of historical romance. Julia Quinn’s ability to weave engaging plots with endearing characters makes this novel a standout in the genre.

For those interested in exploring the Bridgerton universe further, the series continues with equally captivating stories about Daphne’s siblings, promising more romance and intrigue.