Book Review: The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn

 

Goodreads Overview:

This time the gossip columnists have it wrong. London’s most elusive bachelor Anthony Bridgerton hasn’t just decided to marry—he’s even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended’s older sister, Kate Sheffield—the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate’s the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams...

Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands—and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate’s determined to protect her sister—but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony’s lips touch hers, she’s suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself...

Review:

This is the second book in the Bridgerton series and focuses on Daphne's oldest brother Anthony. He is best friends with Daphne's husband Simon. If you read the first book in the series, you are well aware of both of their reputations. Simon had no intention of getting married until he found himself in a compromising situation. Ultimately, it worked out for the best because Daphne and Simon are perfect together. They made a few appearances in this novel, and I enjoyed seeing how married life is treating them since the conclusion of The Duke and I.

Anthony is only settling down because he believes it is his duty as the Viscount to produce an heir. He isn't looking for love, but someone who will fit the role of the Viscountess and produce children. He has every intention of continuing his rakish behavior until he falls in love with Kate, the sister of the woman he originally planned on marrying. 

The banter between Anthony and Kate was absolutely hilarious throughout this book. They are like oil and vinegar and appear to detest each other, but Anthony needs her approval if he intends to marry Edwina. They get thrown into a variety of situations that eventually change their perceptions of each other. She sees his love and devotion to his family and realizes there is more to him than she originally thought. He is, however, very up front with her about not wanting a love match, which complicates things for quite a while considering his undeniable attraction to her. 

 

There are some MAJOR differences between the book and this season of the Netflix series. I prefer the book version, but I can see why they may have wanted to increase the drama for television purposes. After reading the book, I was actually lukewarm on some of the changes Netflix made. When I heard Julia Quinn speak at an author event recently, she said she pretty much gave Netflix free reign when it came to the script. The one scene she insisted that they keep from this book was the croquet match, which I totally agree with. That was one of my favorite scenes from the book and series. 

Overall, I am loving this series. The characters are so unique, and you HAVE to love Lady Whistledown and her publications. We as readers/viewers now know who Whistledown is, but the other characters are still trying to figure it out. Hopefully it stays that way because I really enjoy her witty take on society's elite. The next book focuses on Benedict and sounds like a take on the Cinderella story. I'm not sure how I feel about mixing a retelling into this story, but only time will tell.