A review by emilyvictoria_
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn

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

3.0

I have to say I enjoyed reading this book, despite having watched the series and honestly, thinking the series is better. The series diversifies the cast and gives the side characters so much more depth and story, whereas the novel is very whitewashed and purely focuses on Daphne and Simon. I also found both protagonists really frustrating, and particularly for the first 3/4 I found Simon way too stubborn and egotistical, and whilst Daphne was naive, her actions were unforgivable. The ending might have been sweet and wholesome but I could not get past how they brushed over what Daphne did to Simon, that definitely needed addressing more before Simon unquestionably returned to her. However, regardless of these issues I did find the book an interesting and enjoyable read and liked how it was structured around Lady Whistledown’s papers. Even though I preferred the series, I think I will be reading the following books (especially out of curiosity as to how they compare to the series).
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