Friday, February 15, 2008

To Sir Phillip, with Love

Author: Julia Quinn
Published: July 2003 (Avon)
Catgory: Historical Romance
Series: Bridgerton Family #5
Rating: 8/10
Quote of choice: Her brothers should never have been talking about such things in front of her, but even more, the last thing she wanted to know was whether Sir Phillip had tupped a tavern wench with bosoms the size of soup tureens.

I suddenly realize that I never posted a review for Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, which told Colin Bridgerton's story. The events in that book spurred Eloise's actions in To Sir Phillip, With Love. Since the death of Marina, Phillip's wife, and Eloise's distant cousin, Phillip and Eloise corresponded frequently. It started with Eloise's condolence note to Phillip, and they became penpals over about 18 months.

Phillip, widowed and with young, mischievous twins, needs a mother to run his house an care for his children so he can pursue his botanical studies. He figures Eloise is a good choice because they know each other through their letters, and she's a spinster. Surely his offer of marriage would be most welcome. He suggests a visit to see if they will suit, and Eloise was hesitant, until Penelope gets married, and she runs off to Gloucestershire.

Their courtship lasts about two days, where Eloise is subjected to pranks from Phillip's children, and Phillip realizes he's not very good at romance. Eloise's brothers show up to break Phillip's legs, and Anthony tells Eloise she must marry Phillip or else her reputation will be in shreds.

Quinn really knows how to tug on the heartstrings. After they're married, Eloise tries to get Phillip more involved in his children, and wants them to have a good marriage based on more than lots of time in bed. Phillip, dealing with an abusive childhood at the hands of his father, figures he married Eloise so he wouldn't have to worry about his kids, so he pushes her away, only to soon find out that the children's nurse is beating them. The scene made me all teary-eyed.

Next one up: When He Was Wicked.

1 comment:

Jennie said...

This is my favorite Bridgerton -- maybe because I think it was the first one I ever read, but also because I just thought Phillip's story was so good. So sweet. ;)