Welcome to Sugarbeat’s Books – The Home of the Romance Novel
Welcome also to Series Sunday!
This is the day of the week where I post a review for a book from a series. In honor of Julia Quinn‘s latest release, we are re-visiting the Bridgerton series. This series started several years ago and remains one of my most favorite series of all time, so I’m enjoying remembering the various books as each Sunday progresses. This week the feature is When He Was Wicked, the book that features Francesca Bridgerton.
ISBN: 0-06-053123-1
Publisher: Avon Books
Source: I purchased this book to read
In every life there is a turning point.
A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one’s life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London’s most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.
After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca’s surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer–the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.
But that was then… Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love… until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets…
The sixth book in the Bridgerton series explores the relationship between Francesca Bridgerton and John & Michael Sterling. Francesca meets Michael Sterling 2 days before she marries his best friend and cousin, John Sterling and for 2 years Michael hides his feelings for Francesca. One day John complains of a headache and lies down for a nap only to die of what is likely a brain hemorrhage at the age of 32. So, at 22 Francesca is a widow and Michael is now the Earl. Michael still attempts to hide his feelings from Francesca as they both mourn their loss. One night Michael offers simple solace to Francesca and this turns into heated lovemaking that leaves them both feeling guilty. They avoid one another to prevent a repeat performance, but Francesca begins to wonder if John is arranging things from heaven.
This wonderful book follows the lives of three friends who survive the loss of one, the subsequent mourning and deeper relationship of the two who remain. Again, a winner, as Julia Quinn deals delicately with both the loss of a young life, the miscarriage of a baby and chronic illness. A great addition to the Bridgerton series.
RT BookReviews gives When He Was Wicked 4 and 1/2 stars and says: “It is a story of great beauty and depth of desire—not only for love but for friendship too.”
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