If you have not been under a rock these past few years, you have probably heard of the Bridgerton name. The popular Netflix drama, which is based on Julia Quinn’s best-selling series by the same name, has been gripping the world with its intense drama, unfathomable chemistry and hilarious modern takes. As shooting for Bridgerton Season 4 begins and Season 3 of Bridgerton has officially joined the list of Netflix’s most popular titles of all time, with a cumulative 91.9 million views since its May 16 premiere – more and more people are intrigued about the show, series and the books that started it all. And if you are curious to read this 8-part series that follows the life of the Bridgerton children who stumble through life to find love, understand loss and thrive – then you are sure to be left with this question – What is the correct order of the Bridgerton Book series. With the Netflix show taking various liberties to change the flow of the storylines, here’s how Julia Quinn’s novels are chronologically arranged.
Book 1: ‘The Duke & I’ – Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset’s Fake Dating Romance
The first book in the Bridgerton series, much like the Netflix show – is Duke & I. It follows the journey of the eldest Bridgerton daughter – Daphne – as she enters the marriage market and falls in love with Simon Basset – the Duke of Hastings. This fake dating to romance story managed to grip fans into the world of Bridgerton and continues to be loved and adored by many. Kim Kardashian Is ‘Obsessed’ With Netflix Show Bridgerton for Phoebe Dynevor and Regé-Jean Page’s Sizzling Hot Chemistry.
Book 2: ‘The Viscount Who Loved Me’ – Anthony Bridgerton and Kate Sharma’s (Sheffield) Enemies to Lovers Story
The second book in the series focuses on the romantic life of the first-born Bridgerton – Viscount Anthony Bridgerton and follows one of the most captivating stories of enemies to lovers that we have seen. The Netflix series stuck to the order up to this part of the story and delivered one of the most loved couples in the Bridgerton family with #Kanthony. Bridgerton Season 2: Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley’s Netflix Show Smashes Single-Week Record for Most-Viewed English OTT Series!
Book 3: ‘An Offer From A Gentleman’ – Benedict Bridgerton & Sophie Baek’s (Beckett) Fairytale Retelling
The third book is where the Netflix show made its first detour. While the book follows the story of the second son in the Bridgerton household – Benedict, the show focused instead on bringing Colin Bridgerton’s story to life. An Offer From A Gentleman, which will be the loose plot for the under-production Bridgerton Season 4, works like a charming retelling of the classic Cinderella – but with a subtle commentary on the class divide that exists.
Book 4: ‘Romancing Mister Bridgerton’ – Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington’s Friends to Lovers story
The fourth book, which has given the Bridgerton show its biggest season yet, follows the thrilling story of Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton – who share a long-standing friendship and how it finally turns into love for both sides. While Penelope’s love and admiration for Colin is well-known, the book shows Colin finally falling for Pen and uncovering hidden secrets that can hamper their relationship. Bridgerton Season 3 Part 2 OTT Release: Here’s When and Where To Watch Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan’s Hit Drama Series Online.
Book 5: ‘To Sir Phillip, With Love’ – Eloise Bridgerton’s unorthodox love story
To Sir Phillip, With Love is the fifth book in the series that gives us a glimpse into the life and love of Eloise Bridgerton and how she finally steps into the possibility of entering a marriage after avoiding it for years. While the book Eloise is very different from that of the show, they both share the detest for marriage, making this book a captivating story.
Book 6: ‘When He Was Wicked’ – Francessca Bridgerton’s Second Chance Romance
The sixth book in the series follows the love and life of Francessca – who has already been introduced and married to her first husband – John – The Earl of Kilmartin. And we have already also had a glimpse of the show’s version of her second chance romance – John’s cousin – Michaella Stirling – a radiant young woman who is sure to bring a refreshing story on screen. Coming back to the book, this second-chance romance follows a trope that can be troubling for some and should be read with caution but is considered to tread the lines of a dark romance.
Book 7: ‘It’s in His Kiss’ – Hyacinth Bridgerton and Gareth St Clair’s Fun Adventure
It’s in His Kiss is often touted to be a book, unlike the other Bridgerton books. Whether it is because how young Hyacinth was at the beginning of this, or the fact that she has always stood as the most fun, peppy and lively character in a room – It’s in His Kiss brings all these stories to life and how. It is a cute, fun and unique book that is sure to stir your heart.
Book 8: ‘On the Way to the Wedding’ – Gregory Bridgerton and Lucy Abernathy’s confusing Love quadruple
The final book in the Bridgerton universe follows the story of the youngest Bridgerton sibling – Gregory Bridgerton – who is a believer in love and on a hunt to find “The One”. One of the most titillating books that will take you on a unique journey of love triangles (quadruples?), romance, heartbreak and a lot of Bridgerton-style drama – this book is sure to put a smile on your face.
In addition to this, Julia Quinn has also written various additional epilogues to the story that are sure to help you delve further into the Bridgerton world. Apart from all this, her most recent novel, Queen Charlotte, which was co-written by Shonda Rhimes, is also an engaging novel that gives you a glimpse into the prequel of The Bridgertons as we know them.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2024 09:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
