remuslynch
Written on Apr 20, 2021
'If God ever wanted to smite a sinner, he couldn't do better than Michael Stirling. Michael Stirling, Sinner. He could see it on a calling card. He'd have had it printed up, even - his was just that sort of black sense of humour - if he weren't convinced it would kill his mother on the spot. Rake he might be, but there was no need to torture the woman who'd borne him.'
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 bachelor, 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...
- ISBN10 0060531231
- ISBN13 9780060531232
- Publish Date 29 June 2004
- Publish Status Out of Stock
- Out of Print 6 July 2021
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Avon Books
- Format Paperback (A-Format (178x111 mm))
- Pages 368
- Language English
Reviews
kimbacaffeinate
Written on Mar 21, 2018
- Michael fell in love with Francesca the moment he laid eyes on her, unfortunately, it was also the moment she married his best friend and cousin, John, the Earl of Kilmartin. The three of them became wonderful friends, and Micheal was frequently in residence. Francesa and John had a happy marriage and it suited Fran. I loved seeing the three together and the teasing way Fran was with Michael who never showed his feelings but took joy in their happiness.
- When tragedy strikes Michael realizes he could have everything only grief and guilt overwhelm him and he leaves Fran at Kilmartin and travels.
- Grab some truffles because Quinn will make you weep. I loved that she allowed us to know all three before tragedy struck as it connects the listener on a very emotional level.
- Quinn did such a splendid job developing these characters and sharing their sorrow, fears, desires and more. One cannot help but get caught up in their story.
- Four years have past and Fran is finally ready to come out of mourning. Will Michael finally make her his? You'll laugh, pull your hair in frustration and weep as their unconventional romance unfolds.
- Meddling and updates from the family added lighter moments and a little excitement.
- Simon Pebble narrates and he did such a splendid job of capturing the characters. He added another layer to this already heartwarming tale. I've listened to this narrator before and appreciate his tone and pacing. He offered a distinct voice to each character that I thoroughly enjoyed.
jamiereadthis
Written on Aug 19, 2017
Lindsey Gray
Written on Feb 8, 2016
Amanda
Written on Sep 3, 2014
And when I say "how she's widowed," I meant exactly that---the book begins with Francesca married to Michael's cousin. It's an odd, uncomfortable situation (as I'm sure it's meant to be) that I haven't experienced before in a romance novel.
But at the same time, we get to see John, Francesca's first husband, and who he is and how he's important not just to Francesca, but to Michael, too. And that's important, later on, when both are dealing with a new relationship.
And then there's the "Michael's always been in love with Francesca" twist too. Not gonna lie, he spends a good portion of the book loving her from afar that it's surreal almost when they finally get together. Buuuut. That doesn't mean I didn't like it. More that this book has situations I'm not used to in my romance novels.
Different can be good. And seriously. It's Julia Quinn. How can you not love Julia Quinn? I'm a little sad my time with the Bridgertons is almost over. Who's up for a Julia Quinn month?