When He Was Wicked: Bridgerton

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 historical romance 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, this tale of unrequited love was complicated by the fact that 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. In this emotional friends-to-lovers story, 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 . . .

“Quinn is . . . a romance master. [She] has created a family so likable and attractive, a community so vibrant and engaging, that we want to crawl into the pages and know them.”  - NPR Books

“Julia Quinn is truly our contemporary Jane Austen.” - Jill Barnett

“Quinn is a consummate storyteller. Her prose is spry and assured, and she excels at creating indelible characters.”  - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“If you’ve never read romance novels, start here.”  - Washington Post

“Simply delightful, filled with charm, humor, and wit.”  - Kirkus Reviews