The Duke and I (Bridgerton Series, Book 1) by Julia Quinn

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn is the first book in the beloved Bridgerton series, set in Regency-era England and filled with romance, wit, and intrigue. The story centers around Daphne Bridgerton, the eldest daughter in the prominent Bridgerton family, who is seeking a suitable husband amid London's high society. Enter Simon Basset, the brooding Duke of Hastings, who has sworn off marriage. Together, they devise a clever scheme to pretend they’re courting, hoping to attract attention for Daphne and deter the ambitions of marriage-minded mothers for Simon. However, as their ruse unfolds, they find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected and passionate ways. With humor, charm, and richly developed characters, The Duke and I delivers a heartwarming tale of love and self-discovery.