The Duke and I (novel by Julia Quinn)

"The Duke and I" is the first novel in Julia Quinn’s popular Bridgerton series, set in Regency-era England. It follows Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest daughter of a noble family, as she navigates her debut into London’s high society. Seeking to find a suitable husband, she partners with Simon Basset, the charming Duke of Hastings. Their arrangement mixes strategy with unexpected feelings as they face societal pressures, family dynamics, and personal growth. The novel explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of relationships within the context of class and societal expectations.