Minda’s drunk review of The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgerton #2) by Julia Quinn

What I drank prior: A few glasses of this Pinot Gris I bought for Thanksgiving. It’s really speaking to me.

Goodreads Summary:

1814 promises to be another eventful season, but not, this author believes, for Anthony Bridgerton, London’s most elusive bachelor, who has shown no indication that he plans to marry.

And in truth, why should he? When it comes to playing the consummate rake, nobody does it better…

—Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers, April 1814

But this time, the gossip columnists have it wrong. 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 is 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 is 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…

My Summary: As the head of his family, Anthony Bridgerton has a lot of responsibility on his shoulders. And it’s time to settle down with some babe he doesn’t love since he is convinced he’s going to kick the bucket early. Kate Sheffield is an elder debutante in her first season with her sister I-forget-her-name, the star of this year’s season. She doesn’t really want to be here, but she loves her sis and stepmom. But she’ll be dammed if she lets her sister end up with that rake Anthony Bridgerton after he sets his sights on her. As the battle of wills develops so does the steamy banter between them. Can each survivor this season to get what they want? Time will tell dear reader.

Spoiler-free Thoughts: This was actually my first read of the Bridgerton series, though I was prompted from my watch of the first season of Bridgerton on Netflix. I can say I really liked the sassy banter between Anthony and Kate, but not as much as I liked the tv series. Having since read others, I thought this one was a little forgettable. That said, I dug the older sibling vibe as well—that hit home. And I liked how they intertwined each of their pasts with their fathers so they understood each other deeply. They’re a good match.

Characters: First up is Anthony, who is constantly faced with his own mortality knowing he will never live longer than his father who died fairly young. He is determined to marry—and make that marriage with someone who he would absolutely positively never fall in love with. He picks the jewel of the season, I-can’t-remember Sheffield. Her sister, Kate, will be dammed if that happens. I really liked Kate. Strong willed, independent, happy—what’s not to like? Sometimes she’s a little judgmental, but hey who can’t relate to that at least occasionally. I also liked her stepmother who raised her as if she were her own.

Plot: Moved along nicely. I was actually pleasantly surprised that we got to experience some of their life together post-getting together which was the best part imo.

World Building: The Bridgerton world is great IMO. I love that we have this character, Lady Whistledown, that leads each chapter and was teased in the first book (and tv series). The Bridgertons all have their own distinct personality and such a defined family dynamic. I’m in love with all of them, even the more boring ones. I see you, poor neglected Francesca.

Writing Style: Switching POVs between Anthony and Kate.

Drink Pairing: A lovely white wine

Rating: 4/5 shots. A well-worth-it romance.

xxxo Minda