Series Review: Bridgerton
I don’t think I could start off The Trendy Book Files without a review of the 8-book series that I binge read in less than a month. Let’s just set the scene a bit. It was January of 2022, COVID was in full swing, and it was like -20C on the regular. I had just gotten back from spending a quiet week at the lake where I finished reading The Duke and I, the first book in the Bridgerton series and I LOVED it. I panic ordered the rest of the books once I finished it, as I just knew this was going to be the perfect period romance series.
The Book That Started It
Julia Quinn makes it so easy to fall in love with the Bridgerton family in this 8-part historical romance series.
I didn’t know about the books until I watched the first season of the show, but I was eager to give them a read after seeing good reviews online. I knew I was going to spoil the show if I read the books, but honestly I didn’t care I just needed to know how things panned out for the rest of the Bridgerton siblings after watching that first season.
To my surprise the books and show actually are quite different. While, the show has an extremely elaborate plot and introduces brand-new characters like Queen Charlotte. The books followed a less punchy story line, but provided a deeper view into the main characters personality. Because of this, I honestly think it’s worth giving the books a read if you like the show. Even though the books will spoil some big plot points of the show, there is so much more the show does from a storyline point that I think the books are just a nice complementary read to learn about the characters.
Or if you haven’t watched the show and are more into reading, but love a good historical romance that can bring you into a different time, then I think you’d truly enjoy the series.
Now for my ratings of each book!
The Duke and I: 5/5 stars
Follows Daphne, the eldest Bridgerton daughter and her faux courting scheme with the Duke of Hastings -Simon.
The Viscount Who Loved Me: 4/5 stars
Follows Viscount Anthony Bridgerton in his search for the perfect bride, but instead he falls for her sister - Kate.
An Offer from a Gentleman: 5/5 stars
Follow Benedict, the second oldest, in this fairytale inspired story where his Cinderella’s name is Sophie.
Romancing Mister Bridgerton: 4/5 stars
Follows the third brother, Colin in his realization of his attraction to one Ms. Penelope Featherington.
To Sir Phillip, With Love: 4/5 stars
Follow the second eldest daughter, Eloise, as she strikes up a match with her pen pal Sir Phillip.
When He Was Wicked: 5/5 stars
Follow the least seen sibling, Francesca, where she finds herself caught up with Michael, London’s biggest player.
It’s In His Kiss: 5/5 stars
Follows Hyacinth, the youngest sibling, and Garth the relative of a Bridgerton favourite - Lady Danbury.
On the Way to the Wedding: 4/5 stars
Follow Gregory, the youngest male sibling in his quest to win the heart of his believed true-love, but instead captures the one of Lucy.
So as you can see, I thoroughly enjoyed this whole series. And as a bonus I even read The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After. This was a sweet book that was a collection of epilogues from each story as well Violet Bridgerton’s story in it too. If you do end up reading the books, I highly recommend ending it off with this one.
Have you read them? If so comment below which was your favourite book in the series!
xo, V