Who Would Like This Book:
Looking for a historical romance with deeper emotion, maturity, and a dash of wicked chemistry? This is your book! Francesca Bridgerton steps into the spotlight in a story that explores grief, second chances, and loving again after loss. Michael, the hero, is a devoted, swoony, pining best friend-turned-love interest - catnip for anyone who loves a slow-burn with lots of yearning. It’s also the steamiest of the Bridgerton books, so fans of sexy scenes and complex emotional conflicts will find plenty to savor.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers felt weighed down by the angst, slow pacing, and the more serious tone - especially compared to the lighter, banter-filled earlier Bridgerton novels. Francesca’s hesitancy and emotional back-and-forth frustrated a few, and the heavy focus on grief and infertility isn’t for everyone. If you prefer lots of family antics and humor, the relative absence of the Bridgerton clan here might disappoint.
About:
'When He Was Wicked' in the 'Bridgertons' series by Julia Quinn tells the story of Francesca Bridgerton, a widow who finds herself drawn to her deceased husband's cousin, Michael Stirling. Despite their shared attraction, Francesca struggles with guilt and grief, while Michael has been in love with her for years. The book explores themes of love, loss, guilt, and second chances, set against the backdrop of historical romance. The writing style varies from the usual lighthearted tone of the series, delving into deeper, darker emotions and intimate moments.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book contains themes of grief from the death of a spouse, infertility, and includes explicit content related to adult relationships.
Has Romance?
The book contains a high level of romance, focusing on the emotional and physical relationship between the main characters.
From The Publisher:
A New York Times Bestseller
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn comes the story of Francesca Bridgerton, in the sixth of her beloved Regency-set novels featuring the charming, powerful Bridgerton family, now a series created by Shondaland for Netflix.
FRANCESCA'S STORY
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 . . .
Ratings (113)
Incredible (18) | |
Loved It (51) | |
Liked It (25) | |
It Was OK (15) | |
Did Not Like (4) |
Reader Stats (171):
Read It (136) | |
Want To Read (18) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (16) |
6 comment(s)
aw man this is probably my least fave bridgerton of the ones i’ve read, and i thought it might be my favorite; i like the synopsis of this book much more than the execution. i’m also getting rrreaaal tired of the one very particular temperamental borderline physically abusive rake archetype that JQ always writes for the male hero. i like john so much more than michael lol.
w końcu przeczytane, ale jakim kosztem
It was a pleasant read. Maybe a 3.5 stars
Not the best
I have to say, I didn't enjoy this book quite as much as the others. I feel like I didn't get much of a feel for the characters Francesca and Michael. They seemed to not have that strong of personalities and I wasn't able to connect with who they were. A lot of the book was of Michael trying to convince Francesca to marry him and Francesca running away. It seemed repetitive with a lot of sexual encounters, which would have been great, if the characters had a little more depth to them. Overall, not the best of the series but I will continue with the remaining books since I'm already so far in.
I liked the first 80% mostly, hence 4 instead of 5 stars
I liked this story but it is not my favourite book in this series.
Michael loves Francesca for years when she is still the wife of his beloved cousin. After John's sudden death Michael is very confused, Francesca is available now but he still thinks it wouldn't be okay to did something like that to John. This is not a kind of plot that I'm generally really into. Also, I don't usually look for the best-friends-to-lovers idea but it was made exceptionally good by Quinn in her previous book about Colin and Penelope.
Despite the fact that there are some motives I'm not a fan of, I really liked this story. The characters are pretty well-described. I only wish there is a bit less angst in the story but otherwise it is a nice read.
What can you read after
When He Was Wicked?
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