The "The Viscount who love me" is the second book of the Bridgerton Series. The "Duke and I" is the first book & story of Dafne, first younger sister of Anthony. 3rd book would be the "An Offer From A Gentleman", story of second brother, Benedict. Still coming soon on July, 2001.
This is my second book of Julia Quinn and I must say, I am more than please. The "Duke & I" was my first & as soon as I finished that, I went and bought this one. So far, so good... I cannot wait to read more of her books especially the rest of this Bridgerton Series.
Viscount Anthony Bridgerton is one my few favorites heroes of all time. He is not only handsome, rich & England's most eligible bachelor, he also possessed one character that impressed me the most. He respects and truly love his family. His father died when he was 18 years old and as the eldest son, he took the responsibility of taking care of his family ( a mother, 3 brothers, 4sisters and himself). Now that a big load, He didn't do this out of obligation though, he is truly devoted to them with love & pride. He is their protector and he most certainly watch out for them especially the woman. I specially loved the scenes of Anthony being helpless when it comes to his mother. The dowager Viscountess is surely a wonderful mother - Heart warming! Anthony still listens to her & even fears her ( chuckle ). Despite his MANLY reputation in the society, when it comes to his mother, Anthony is simply a son... and mother's knows best. He might be describe as a RAKE but he is responsible & honorable when it comes to his family. In the past, I have read books wherein it defines the hero as such too but there is limited action to convince me so. In this case, Anthony proved to be that and more... If u haven't read the "Duke & I", then you should pick it up before this one. You will truly be impressed with Anthony. He seriously went to the extent just to protect his family's honor ( protect his sister's honor & even his sister's heart). Now, if that isn't honorably impressive then I don't know what is..
On the same note, Kate is like Anthony. She too loves her family especially her younger sister, Edwina. Compared to Kate, Edwina, is the fairer, prettier & smarter. Naturally, she's became London's Belle of every Balls. She had many suitors & marriage offers... that includes Anthony Bridgerton, who decided it's time to settle down and produce an heir. Since Edwina is London's catch of the year, Anthony decided that she will do for his wife. The courting begun... how hard could it be, right? Afterall, he is England's greatest catch too. Oh....but Anthony never forsaw the greatest challenge, more like hindrance --> Kate, who loathe him and who vowed to protect her younger sister's heart from scoundrel rakes such as Anthony. Edwina, who loves & respects Kate just as much, seek out Kate's approval on every suitors. She even declared this to the entire Ton. Therefore, Kate was not immune to all the courtesy and special attention "Edwina's suitor" bestows upon her. But she knows the game well & is often ahead of it until Anthony shows up. He change the rules & confuse not only her mind but her heart as well.
I agree with one of the reviewers here in Amazon when she said that most story with plot as this one (sisters, one pretty... one plain), normally would describe the pretty one with awful character or a knit-wit. Meanwhile the plain one would have all the brains & perfect traits. In this book however, Julia Quinn made the characters very realistic. In addition to Edwina's extra ordinary beauty, she was still described as intelligent, and with a good heart. You can't help but like her. Kate, on the other hand... yes, she's plain & simple yet she has the spunk, sense humor & very witty ( often times, glib), that just impressed me. She was true to herself. She knows she doesn't have what Edwina has yet she is never jealous of her which I find heart warming. She often times outsmart Anthony on their bantering which thourougly entertained me (Lots of humorous dialogue). This however, leaves Anthony baffled. He didn't like her. She makes him furious most of the time. He knows that Kate would never be an obedient wife, she's too confident, tactless & doesn't have the gracefulness of Edwina yet... he finds himself thinking about her (esp. at nights) and longing to see her the next day. You'd think he'd avoid her & her mouth trashing words that's only meant for him. I guess, you don't need all the beauty & brains to be impressively attractive, huh? All u need is simply be yourself!
Aside from the love story of Anthony & Kate, I specially enjoyed reading updates of Dafne & Simon. I enjoyed the contribution of the secondary characters especially the famous Lady Whistledown. Oh my! Her gossip column just keeps getting bold & interesting every week. I just can't wait to finally find out who she really is. Aww, i tell ya, I have a guess who she might really be but... again, I am not 100% sure. After you read this, email me your guess. Perhaps we might have the same thoughts about this one. I can't wait to read "AN OFFER FROM A GENTLEMAN", that is Benedict Bridgerton's story, second brother of Anthony. I hope there is update of Dafne & Simon as well as Anthony & Kate (Edwina too). Although, I am sure that the mysterious Lady Whistledown would once again entertain us with her vastly amusing/interesting gossips. Hats off to you, Ms. Julia Quinn for a job well done!
