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Keeping Up with the Cavendishes #1
Lady Bridget's Diary
In the first novel of Maya Rodale's stunning new series, an American heiress must learn to navigate London society and an infuriatingly irresistible rake . . . Lord Darcy is the quintessential wealthy, titled, impossibly proper, and horrified that a pack of Americans has inherited one of England's most respected dukedoms. But his manners, his infamous self-restraint, and his better judgment fly out the window when he finds himself with the maddening American girl next door. Lady Bridget Cavendish has grand—but thwarted—plans to become a Perfect Lady and take the haute ton by storm. In her diary, Bridget records her disastrous attempts to assimilate into London high society, her adoration of the handsome rogue next door, her disdain for the Dreadful Lord Darcy, and some truly scandalous secrets that could ruin them all. It was loathing at first sight for Lady Bridget and Lord Darcy. But their paths keep crossing . . . and somehow involve kissing. When Lady Bridget's diary goes missing, both Darcy and Bridget must decide what matters most of all—a sterling reputation or a perfectly imperfect love.
361 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 23, 2016
183 people are currently reading
3080 people want to read
About the author
Maya Rodale
46 books1,621 followersMaya Rodale is the best-selling and award-winning author of funny, feminist fiction including historical romance, YA and historical fiction. A champion of the romance genre and its readers, she is also the author of Dangerous Books For Girls: The Bad Reputation of Romance Novels, Explained. Maya reviews romance for NPR and has appeared in Bustle, Glamour, Shondaland, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post and PBS. She began reading romance novels in college at her mother’s insistence and has never been allowed to forget it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 521 reviews
February 24, 2016
This book was SO much fun! A historical romance about a fish-out-of-water, slightly plump girl who falls in love with a rude, anti-social, stuffy member of the ton; I mean, what is there not to like??
Except for one minor detail....
I've read this EXACT book before.
Sure, it's bits and pieces of a few different books (Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones's Diary, and a dash of Mean Girls), but the content is unchanged from those stories. I'm talking names, exact chunks of dialogue, and all the plot points save a very select few.
I found this book to be extremely frustrating. This was my first read by Maya Rodale, though I own a number of her other books. And let me tell you, this was NOT a good one to start with. Though I found the book to be very entertaining, it was really aggravating to read scenes that are word-for-word what I've read previously or seen in movies. There was NO originality there, and I really wish that that wasn't the case.
The basic plot is a retelling of Pride and Prejudice (we get a Mr. Darcy and a Mr. Collins, who are both exactly the same characters as in the original) with the inclusion of a klutzy, voluptuous Bridget as the main character (exactly the same as from Bridget Jones's Diary). If you know those two books very well, then expect no surprises from this one.
I'm surprised that the author did something so completely derivative. While I'm actually a bit interested in the second book in this series, I think I have too bad of a taste in my mouth from this one to continue.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Except for one minor detail....
I've read this EXACT book before.
Sure, it's bits and pieces of a few different books (Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones's Diary, and a dash of Mean Girls), but the content is unchanged from those stories. I'm talking names, exact chunks of dialogue, and all the plot points save a very select few.
I found this book to be extremely frustrating. This was my first read by Maya Rodale, though I own a number of her other books. And let me tell you, this was NOT a good one to start with. Though I found the book to be very entertaining, it was really aggravating to read scenes that are word-for-word what I've read previously or seen in movies. There was NO originality there, and I really wish that that wasn't the case.
The basic plot is a retelling of Pride and Prejudice (we get a Mr. Darcy and a Mr. Collins, who are both exactly the same characters as in the original) with the inclusion of a klutzy, voluptuous Bridget as the main character (exactly the same as from Bridget Jones's Diary). If you know those two books very well, then expect no surprises from this one.
I'm surprised that the author did something so completely derivative. While I'm actually a bit interested in the second book in this series, I think I have too bad of a taste in my mouth from this one to continue.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
June 6, 2016
Lady Bridget's Diary felt so meta! I've always wondered what it was like if Bridget Jones' Diary and Pride and Prejudice were mixed together, and this story was it for me. It was quite entertaining to see a hint of Mean Girls somewhere in there, too!
After the Duke of Durham passed away, American James Cavendish, son of the duke's brother and the closest living male relative, inherits the dukedom and moves from their horse farm in Maryland, USA to the upper echelons of English society with his three sisters, Amelia, Claire, and Bridget. Their Aunt Josephine trains the girls to become proper Ladies, but between their arrival and their debut, there just wasn't enough time. And the girls were more stubborn than Lady Josephine expected.
The haute ton is curious about the imports, some excited to rub elbows with them and form a connection, and some disdainful of their American roots. Among the latter is Colin Fitzwilliam Wright a.k.a. Loooord Darcy. Upon seeing the Cavendishes and Lady Bridget's unfortunate fall during their debut, Lord Darcy is convinced that they are bad news and does his best to avoid them, especially Lady Bridget. Despite his disdain, he takes an interest in her anyway. Lady Francesca, the woman expected to tie down Lord Darcy, notices his uncharacteristic interest in Bridget, and keeps Bridget close to make sure things don't go out of hand.
All throughout the story, Lady Bridget writes prodigiously in her diary about her family's adventure in London, her plans to become the Perfect Lady, her crush on Rupert Wright, the Dreadful Darcy and his kisses, the rejected proposal, and secrets that would surely scandalize the whole Ton. When she ends up losing her diary, the Canvendish household is in an uproar. If the diary falls into the wrong hands, not only would they lose their reputation, the secret might cause someone's life.
Lady Bridget Cavendish is somewhere in between Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones. Impertinent, self-deprecating, charming, funny, and a bit of a mess, really. She's such an endearing character, not because of her clumsiness and her novelty for being a carefree American in such a proper English society, but because of her lack of pretentious airs. Yes, she wanted to be a Perfect Lady to fit in, but she stayed loyal to her family, and she didn't act differently to make the men fall in love with her.
I loved how Lord Darcy's real name is Colin Fitzwilliam Wright. I couldn't stop thinking about Colin Firth because of it. Haha! Lord Darcy is every bit of Darcy there is, but more, um, carnal, I suppose? Lady Bridget's personality is a breath of fresh air for him, but he is also immensely attracted to her, evidenced by his constant thoughts of her fine assets *wink wink*.
I just have to say that Lady Francesca is Regina George and Caroline Bingley personified. I disliked Caroline Bingley in Pride and Prejudice, but bah, I hated Lady Francesca. You just know there's something not right with someone that perfect.
All in all, this book was such a delightful and entertaining read. I can't wait to read Amelia's story in "Chasing Lady Amelia".
After the Duke of Durham passed away, American James Cavendish, son of the duke's brother and the closest living male relative, inherits the dukedom and moves from their horse farm in Maryland, USA to the upper echelons of English society with his three sisters, Amelia, Claire, and Bridget. Their Aunt Josephine trains the girls to become proper Ladies, but between their arrival and their debut, there just wasn't enough time. And the girls were more stubborn than Lady Josephine expected.
The haute ton is curious about the imports, some excited to rub elbows with them and form a connection, and some disdainful of their American roots. Among the latter is Colin Fitzwilliam Wright a.k.a. Loooord Darcy. Upon seeing the Cavendishes and Lady Bridget's unfortunate fall during their debut, Lord Darcy is convinced that they are bad news and does his best to avoid them, especially Lady Bridget. Despite his disdain, he takes an interest in her anyway. Lady Francesca, the woman expected to tie down Lord Darcy, notices his uncharacteristic interest in Bridget, and keeps Bridget close to make sure things don't go out of hand.
All throughout the story, Lady Bridget writes prodigiously in her diary about her family's adventure in London, her plans to become the Perfect Lady, her crush on Rupert Wright, the Dreadful Darcy and his kisses, the rejected proposal, and secrets that would surely scandalize the whole Ton. When she ends up losing her diary, the Canvendish household is in an uproar. If the diary falls into the wrong hands, not only would they lose their reputation, the secret might cause someone's life.
Lady Bridget Cavendish is somewhere in between Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones. Impertinent, self-deprecating, charming, funny, and a bit of a mess, really. She's such an endearing character, not because of her clumsiness and her novelty for being a carefree American in such a proper English society, but because of her lack of pretentious airs. Yes, she wanted to be a Perfect Lady to fit in, but she stayed loyal to her family, and she didn't act differently to make the men fall in love with her.
I loved how Lord Darcy's real name is Colin Fitzwilliam Wright. I couldn't stop thinking about Colin Firth because of it. Haha! Lord Darcy is every bit of Darcy there is, but more, um, carnal, I suppose? Lady Bridget's personality is a breath of fresh air for him, but he is also immensely attracted to her, evidenced by his constant thoughts of her fine assets *wink wink*.
I just have to say that Lady Francesca is Regina George and Caroline Bingley personified. I disliked Caroline Bingley in Pride and Prejudice, but bah, I hated Lady Francesca. You just know there's something not right with someone that perfect.
All in all, this book was such a delightful and entertaining read. I can't wait to read Amelia's story in "Chasing Lady Amelia".
January 28, 2021
3.5 Stars
This one was cute, but I didn't love it as much as I thought I would. Maybe because it didn't include enough new and unique content for me to be really engaged? I love Bridget Jones and Pride and Prejudice, but this one felt like it was supposed to be endearing but didn't really hit the mark. I never really loved Bridget. Her and her family came to England from America for her brother to take over the Dukedom. I did enjoy the story overall, but I wasn't dying for Bridget and Darcy to get together. I did like the storyline with Darcy's brother Rupert and Bridgert's diary, but I do think the villainous characters felt too dramatic. I didn't hate this one, but I definitely didn't love it. It was just an okay romance!
This one was cute, but I didn't love it as much as I thought I would. Maybe because it didn't include enough new and unique content for me to be really engaged? I love Bridget Jones and Pride and Prejudice, but this one felt like it was supposed to be endearing but didn't really hit the mark. I never really loved Bridget. Her and her family came to England from America for her brother to take over the Dukedom. I did enjoy the story overall, but I wasn't dying for Bridget and Darcy to get together. I did like the storyline with Darcy's brother Rupert and Bridgert's diary, but I do think the villainous characters felt too dramatic. I didn't hate this one, but I definitely didn't love it. It was just an okay romance!
January 13, 2016
ALL THE STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Lady Bridget's Diary by Maya Rodale
Book One of the Cavendish series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: February 23, 2016
Rating: 5 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
In the first novel of Maya Rodale's stunning new series, an American heiress must learn to navigate London society and an infuriatingly irresistible rake . . .
Lord Darcy is the quintessential Englishman: wealthy, titled, impossibly proper, and horrified that a pack of Americans has inherited one of England's most respected dukedoms. But his manners, his infamous self-restraint, and his better judgment fly out the window when he finds himself with the maddening American girl next door.
Lady Bridget Cavendish has grand—but thwarted—plans to become a Perfect Lady and take the haute ton by storm. In her diary, Bridget records her disastrous attempts to assimilate into London high society, her adoration of the handsome rogue next door, her disdain for the Dreadful Lord Darcy, and some truly scandalous secrets that could ruin them all.
It was loathing at first sight for Lady Bridget and Lord Darcy. But their paths keep crossing . . . and somehow involve kissing. When Lady Bridget's diary goes missing, both Darcy and Bridget must decide what matters most of all—a sterling reputation or a perfectly imperfect love.
What I Liked:
I received an ARC of this from Avon, for the Avon Addicts program. I also received an eARC from Avon via Edelweiss. Both were for free. This in no way affected my opinion.
I ADORED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! I had a feeling, because it's Maya Rodale and she is sooooo good (I love her Wallflower series!). This book is definitely my favorite of the ones I've read by her, and in running for favorite romance novel of 2016! (Obviously I have eleven and a half more months for this to stay put or change.) I do not think I will be able to do this book justice, so please forgive the possibly short review!
Bridget and her older brother, older sister, and younger sister are leaving America and joining the haute ton of England. As it would turn out, James is the new Duke of Durham, inherited from his deceased uncle. The three sisters as well the as new Duke must learn (quickly) how to fit into society - but every attempt is a complete disaster, especially when it comes to Bridget. Bridget writes down her family's disasters, from falling in the middle of a ballroom, to Amelia's brief disappearance... to Bridget's scandalously delicious kiss with Lord Darcy ("Dreadful Darcy"). But when the diary goes missing, Bridget and Darcy must decide what to do about the impending scandal and ruination.
I haven't read too many books involving American heirs/heiresses (if any at all?), so this was a new experience. I love how "American" and different the Cavendish family is! The three girls are simply too wild for English society; all the hasty lessons in manners and deportment have done nothing to ease or slow the disasters that follow the girls. Bridget falls at their first ball, Claire is much more interested in mathematics, and Amelia tells someone that she likes to ride horses. And James - he prefers to be riding horses than navigating through a sea of social-climbing young women.
Bridget is probably one of my favorite historical romance heroines, at least in the least year or two. I can't remember giggling so much while reading an HR novel! Bridget isn't necessarily clumsy, but she doesn't have the grace and hardness that the English noblewomen have drilled into them since birth. Bridget has so much character and wit and charm and wickedness. She is the only one of the sisters that really wants to try to fit into polite society; but I hoped that she would never become like those stuffy, shallow girls in society.
Lord Darcy (whose lovely given name is Colin Wright - I love the name Colin!) is the paragon of an English nobleman. He's a very important earl with lots of power, money, and a spotless reputation. He's stiff and completely expressionless and emotionless, at least in terms of outward appearances. Since he was little, his father and tutors taught him how to properly be a gentleman and the heir to a very powerful title. So, Darcy is extremely stiff and immobile and emotionless, and it's shocking to him when the teasing of an impertinent American sister of a duke actually gets to him. Despite Darcy being very hard to read, he's very swoony in his own way! I mean, physically, he's supposed to be very attractive, but the whole silent thing really works in his favor, and he's one of the most eligible bachelors.
At first, it seems like Bridget will marry Darcy's younger brother, Rupert. Rupert it charming and handsome and comes to Bridget's rescue many times. But there are circumstances that Bridget knows nothing of, which makes Rupert an ineligible match. But for a good portion of the book, Bridget is convinced that Rupert will propose to her... all the while, she can't keep her eyes (and interest) off Darcy.
Ahhh, the romance. Watching these two interact is SO precious. Darcy is practically a robot (it's cute, really!), and Bridget is an impertinent, witty not-quite-yet-a-lady. Darcy's like a block of ice, whereas Bridget is a wildfire - she thaws him out. First there is lust, but Darcy doesn't want to act on it because he thinks his brother will propose (again, this CAN'T happen, but Bridget doesn't know that), as well as Darcy is supposed to be looking for a perfect English lady (not an uncivilized American!). So it's a lot of push and pull, a hate-to-love type of relationship (apathy-to-love?). I LOVED seeing these two interact, and fall in love!
The chemistry between them is a slow-burn chemistry, just like the romance. There is tension between them from the start. but Bridget doesn't really pay attention to Darcy (she doesn't really notice that he is an attractive man) until A Certain Event occurs - and same for Darcy. So cute! And hilarious - definitely one of my favorite scenes of the book.
If any of you is wondering about a love triangle - nope! It's all Darcy and Bridget, and they are ridiculously cute and hilarious. It takes a while for Darcy to thaw, but when he does... *fans self* There is only one real love scene in this book, but it was pretty steamy! It seems to be Rodale's style, to only have one sex scene in her books. Which is fine, but this book could have benefited from many more of those scenes! However, the one scene really fit, especially in terms of how Darcy and Bridget are, and the circumstances of their relationship (semi forbidden, as Darcy doesn't expect to fall for the American, and Bridget was still foolishly waiting for Rupert to propose, not for the entire book though).
I adore Bridget, and Darcy and Bridget and Darcy. I love the Cavendish siblings and their family dynamic! They are very true to each other and very devoted to each other. Darcy is also very committed to helping his brother - he doesn't want Rupert to be a thing like him, or their father. I love how important family is, in this book.
Overall, I am a HUGE fan of this book. It wouldn't have gotten the rare five-star rating from me otherwise. I can't wait to read Amelia's book next!
What I Did Not Like:
Come on, Maya - more love scenes, please! There was only one sex scene, and it could have been much more drawn out. Maybe another one at the very end or something! I did love the thick tension and chemistry between the characters though!
Would I Recommend It:
I soooo recommend this book to historical romance fans. Like, definitively, YES. Don't miss this book. I had a "miss" book just a few days ago (The Rogue by Katharine Ashe) but this book was a HUGE hit. Like I may go reread it right now because the whole book was hilarious and swoony and enjoyable and not filled with angst! No heartbreaking stretches or crazy climax/ending. And yet the story (outside of the romance) captured my attention entirely. Ah! You need this book!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded up to 5 stars. This is my first five-star rating of 2016! That really did not take long (it's my eighth read of the year). So much love for this gorgeous book! I can't wait to read Amelia's side of things, in Chasing Lady Amelia!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Lady Bridget's Diary by Maya Rodale
Book One of the Cavendish series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: February 23, 2016
Rating: 5 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
In the first novel of Maya Rodale's stunning new series, an American heiress must learn to navigate London society and an infuriatingly irresistible rake . . .
Lord Darcy is the quintessential Englishman: wealthy, titled, impossibly proper, and horrified that a pack of Americans has inherited one of England's most respected dukedoms. But his manners, his infamous self-restraint, and his better judgment fly out the window when he finds himself with the maddening American girl next door.
Lady Bridget Cavendish has grand—but thwarted—plans to become a Perfect Lady and take the haute ton by storm. In her diary, Bridget records her disastrous attempts to assimilate into London high society, her adoration of the handsome rogue next door, her disdain for the Dreadful Lord Darcy, and some truly scandalous secrets that could ruin them all.
It was loathing at first sight for Lady Bridget and Lord Darcy. But their paths keep crossing . . . and somehow involve kissing. When Lady Bridget's diary goes missing, both Darcy and Bridget must decide what matters most of all—a sterling reputation or a perfectly imperfect love.
What I Liked:
I received an ARC of this from Avon, for the Avon Addicts program. I also received an eARC from Avon via Edelweiss. Both were for free. This in no way affected my opinion.
I ADORED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! I had a feeling, because it's Maya Rodale and she is sooooo good (I love her Wallflower series!). This book is definitely my favorite of the ones I've read by her, and in running for favorite romance novel of 2016! (Obviously I have eleven and a half more months for this to stay put or change.) I do not think I will be able to do this book justice, so please forgive the possibly short review!
Bridget and her older brother, older sister, and younger sister are leaving America and joining the haute ton of England. As it would turn out, James is the new Duke of Durham, inherited from his deceased uncle. The three sisters as well the as new Duke must learn (quickly) how to fit into society - but every attempt is a complete disaster, especially when it comes to Bridget. Bridget writes down her family's disasters, from falling in the middle of a ballroom, to Amelia's brief disappearance... to Bridget's scandalously delicious kiss with Lord Darcy ("Dreadful Darcy"). But when the diary goes missing, Bridget and Darcy must decide what to do about the impending scandal and ruination.
I haven't read too many books involving American heirs/heiresses (if any at all?), so this was a new experience. I love how "American" and different the Cavendish family is! The three girls are simply too wild for English society; all the hasty lessons in manners and deportment have done nothing to ease or slow the disasters that follow the girls. Bridget falls at their first ball, Claire is much more interested in mathematics, and Amelia tells someone that she likes to ride horses. And James - he prefers to be riding horses than navigating through a sea of social-climbing young women.
Bridget is probably one of my favorite historical romance heroines, at least in the least year or two. I can't remember giggling so much while reading an HR novel! Bridget isn't necessarily clumsy, but she doesn't have the grace and hardness that the English noblewomen have drilled into them since birth. Bridget has so much character and wit and charm and wickedness. She is the only one of the sisters that really wants to try to fit into polite society; but I hoped that she would never become like those stuffy, shallow girls in society.
Lord Darcy (whose lovely given name is Colin Wright - I love the name Colin!) is the paragon of an English nobleman. He's a very important earl with lots of power, money, and a spotless reputation. He's stiff and completely expressionless and emotionless, at least in terms of outward appearances. Since he was little, his father and tutors taught him how to properly be a gentleman and the heir to a very powerful title. So, Darcy is extremely stiff and immobile and emotionless, and it's shocking to him when the teasing of an impertinent American sister of a duke actually gets to him. Despite Darcy being very hard to read, he's very swoony in his own way! I mean, physically, he's supposed to be very attractive, but the whole silent thing really works in his favor, and he's one of the most eligible bachelors.
At first, it seems like Bridget will marry Darcy's younger brother, Rupert. Rupert it charming and handsome and comes to Bridget's rescue many times. But there are circumstances that Bridget knows nothing of, which makes Rupert an ineligible match. But for a good portion of the book, Bridget is convinced that Rupert will propose to her... all the while, she can't keep her eyes (and interest) off Darcy.
Ahhh, the romance. Watching these two interact is SO precious. Darcy is practically a robot (it's cute, really!), and Bridget is an impertinent, witty not-quite-yet-a-lady. Darcy's like a block of ice, whereas Bridget is a wildfire - she thaws him out. First there is lust, but Darcy doesn't want to act on it because he thinks his brother will propose (again, this CAN'T happen, but Bridget doesn't know that), as well as Darcy is supposed to be looking for a perfect English lady (not an uncivilized American!). So it's a lot of push and pull, a hate-to-love type of relationship (apathy-to-love?). I LOVED seeing these two interact, and fall in love!
The chemistry between them is a slow-burn chemistry, just like the romance. There is tension between them from the start. but Bridget doesn't really pay attention to Darcy (she doesn't really notice that he is an attractive man) until A Certain Event occurs - and same for Darcy. So cute! And hilarious - definitely one of my favorite scenes of the book.
If any of you is wondering about a love triangle - nope! It's all Darcy and Bridget, and they are ridiculously cute and hilarious. It takes a while for Darcy to thaw, but when he does... *fans self* There is only one real love scene in this book, but it was pretty steamy! It seems to be Rodale's style, to only have one sex scene in her books. Which is fine, but this book could have benefited from many more of those scenes! However, the one scene really fit, especially in terms of how Darcy and Bridget are, and the circumstances of their relationship (semi forbidden, as Darcy doesn't expect to fall for the American, and Bridget was still foolishly waiting for Rupert to propose, not for the entire book though).
I adore Bridget, and Darcy and Bridget and Darcy. I love the Cavendish siblings and their family dynamic! They are very true to each other and very devoted to each other. Darcy is also very committed to helping his brother - he doesn't want Rupert to be a thing like him, or their father. I love how important family is, in this book.
Overall, I am a HUGE fan of this book. It wouldn't have gotten the rare five-star rating from me otherwise. I can't wait to read Amelia's book next!
What I Did Not Like:
Come on, Maya - more love scenes, please! There was only one sex scene, and it could have been much more drawn out. Maybe another one at the very end or something! I did love the thick tension and chemistry between the characters though!
Would I Recommend It:
I soooo recommend this book to historical romance fans. Like, definitively, YES. Don't miss this book. I had a "miss" book just a few days ago (The Rogue by Katharine Ashe) but this book was a HUGE hit. Like I may go reread it right now because the whole book was hilarious and swoony and enjoyable and not filled with angst! No heartbreaking stretches or crazy climax/ending. And yet the story (outside of the romance) captured my attention entirely. Ah! You need this book!
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded up to 5 stars. This is my first five-star rating of 2016! That really did not take long (it's my eighth read of the year). So much love for this gorgeous book! I can't wait to read Amelia's side of things, in Chasing Lady Amelia!
Read
February 17, 2016I DNF'd at page 200
This is Pride and Prejudice meets Bridget Jones's Diary meets Mean Girls. The references and repeated scenes from the movies were too much for me. The hero IS Darcy from PP and BJD. The mean girls group tells the heroine to wear pink on Wednesdays (from mean girls). They fall off their boats while reading poetry like in BJD. Mr. Collins appears from PP.
Too distracting.
This is Pride and Prejudice meets Bridget Jones's Diary meets Mean Girls. The references and repeated scenes from the movies were too much for me. The hero IS Darcy from PP and BJD. The mean girls group tells the heroine to wear pink on Wednesdays (from mean girls). They fall off their boats while reading poetry like in BJD. Mr. Collins appears from PP.
Too distracting.
October 8, 2016
Lady Bridget’s Diary kicks off Maya Rodale’s Keeping Up with the Cavendishes series, and what a fun start it is. Clever, passionate, charming, and romantic, it’s a story filled with twists and turns and lots of humor.
Darcy is perfect! Absolutely perfect in a stuffed shirt (or 'starched cravat') sort of way, and his observations of Bridget and her peculiar ways are, again, some of my favorite parts of the story. Such a sighworthy man! And to say Darcy and Bridget are belong together is to say the least.
Historical romance fans, Maya Rodale truly is one of the brightest stars in the genre and this is a story and a series not to be missed!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.
In the first novel of Maya Rodale's stunning new series, an American heiress must learn to navigate London society and an infuriatingly irresistible rake...There’s something so adorable about Lady Bridget’s attempts to fit in in a world she knows nothing about, while finding the world rather not to her liking. Her dismay over the “reducing diet” and French lessons and other sorts of nonsense are some of the best in the book, and I couldn’t help but laugh right along with her!
Lord Darcy is the quintessential Englishman: wealthy, titled, impossibly proper, and horrified that a pack of Americans has inherited one of England's most respected dukedoms. But his manners, his infamous self-restraint, and his better judgment fly out the window when he finds himself with the maddening American girl next door.
Lady Bridget Cavendish has grand—but thwarted—plans to become a Perfect Lady and take the haute ton by storm. In her diary, Bridget records her disastrous attempts to assimilate into London high society, her adoration of the handsome rogue next door, her disdain for the Dreadful Lord Darcy, and some truly scandalous secrets that could ruin them all.
It was loathing at first sight for Lady Bridget and Lord Darcy. But their paths keep crossing . . . and somehow involve kissing. When Lady Bridget's diary goes missing, both Darcy and Bridget must decide what matters most of all—a sterling reputation or a perfectly imperfect love.
Darcy is perfect! Absolutely perfect in a stuffed shirt (or 'starched cravat') sort of way, and his observations of Bridget and her peculiar ways are, again, some of my favorite parts of the story. Such a sighworthy man! And to say Darcy and Bridget are belong together is to say the least.
Historical romance fans, Maya Rodale truly is one of the brightest stars in the genre and this is a story and a series not to be missed!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.
December 23, 2020
- second time reading this in years
- bridget jones diary and pride and prejudice fans
- his brother rupert 'likes' Bridget and is courting her but tbh Rupert likes dukes more than her.
- rupert is being blackmailed for his secret and decides to marry bridget to stop it but Bridget and the main hero shared a kiss and like each other
-they are both too proud to admit their feelings for each other
- MY HEART MY BABY DARCY who struggles with himself because he's rude and cold since his father trained him from the very beginning to be that way and when he finally realizes he loves Bridget and want to marry her, she rejects him since he proposed like a brute.
- SHE FINALLY REALIZES he's a good guy after her sister says that he saved her and didn't have her reputation get ruined from a mistake and that maybe she thought wrong all along
- The ending had a bit more potential for a bigger slap in the face to our evil character but I still really enjoyed it and loved it so much especially the ending and knowing theyre having the best happily ever after
- darcy just told the wicked bitch to shut up or else her reputation would be ruined for knowing so many rumors
- HOW DID I NOT READ THE SECOND BOOK OF THE SERIES --CHASING AMELIA??? After Darcy comes and rescues Amelia from her reputation being RUINED after running away, we finally get to see a second chance romance for her and her lord that she fell in love with
- bridget jones diary and pride and prejudice fans
- his brother rupert 'likes' Bridget and is courting her but tbh Rupert likes dukes more than her.
- rupert is being blackmailed for his secret and decides to marry bridget to stop it but Bridget and the main hero shared a kiss and like each other
-they are both too proud to admit their feelings for each other
- MY HEART MY BABY DARCY who struggles with himself because he's rude and cold since his father trained him from the very beginning to be that way and when he finally realizes he loves Bridget and want to marry her, she rejects him since he proposed like a brute.
- SHE FINALLY REALIZES he's a good guy after her sister says that he saved her and didn't have her reputation get ruined from a mistake and that maybe she thought wrong all along
- The ending had a bit more potential for a bigger slap in the face to our evil character but I still really enjoyed it and loved it so much especially the ending and knowing theyre having the best happily ever after
- darcy just told the wicked bitch to shut up or else her reputation would be ruined for knowing so many rumors
- HOW DID I NOT READ THE SECOND BOOK OF THE SERIES --CHASING AMELIA??? After Darcy comes and rescues Amelia from her reputation being RUINED after running away, we finally get to see a second chance romance for her and her lord that she fell in love with
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2025
I have to admit that I always enjoy a great historical romance but I don’t normally love them. Lady Bridget’s Diary broke that proverbial mold because I flat out loved it.
Searching for long lost heirs thrust the “uncivilized” and disinherited Americans, The Cavendish Family, into British high society and a dukedom. Trying their best to fit the Cavendish family still causes quite a stir. Some things just aren’t done and it seems Lady Bridget is having the worst time adjusting to this new life. Every where Bridget goes a gaggle of gossip follows her wake.
Lord Darcy is the perfect poster child for high society. Nothing about Bridget should entice Lord Darcy, but he just can’t seem to stay away. He is torn between his reputation and his desire for the spitfire, Lady Bridget, that keeps driving him mad.
In my opinion, Lady Bridget steals the show with her chutzpah while blundering her way into Lord Darcy’s heart.
Absolutely adorable, completely cute and utterly endearing, you can’t help but fall in love with Lady Bridget’s Diary.
I received this ARC copy Lady Bridget's Diary from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication January 26, 2015.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Searching for long lost heirs thrust the “uncivilized” and disinherited Americans, The Cavendish Family, into British high society and a dukedom. Trying their best to fit the Cavendish family still causes quite a stir. Some things just aren’t done and it seems Lady Bridget is having the worst time adjusting to this new life. Every where Bridget goes a gaggle of gossip follows her wake.
Lord Darcy is the perfect poster child for high society. Nothing about Bridget should entice Lord Darcy, but he just can’t seem to stay away. He is torn between his reputation and his desire for the spitfire, Lady Bridget, that keeps driving him mad.
In my opinion, Lady Bridget steals the show with her chutzpah while blundering her way into Lord Darcy’s heart.
Absolutely adorable, completely cute and utterly endearing, you can’t help but fall in love with Lady Bridget’s Diary.
I received this ARC copy Lady Bridget's Diary from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication January 26, 2015.
My Rating: 5 Stars
February 29, 2016
The only thing even vaguely redeeming about this book is the fact that it didn't take more than a day to read. And even that was too much time wasted. I am not opposed to fluff -- this is the fluffiest of fluff. I'm not opposed to remakes of classics -- this fancies itself a retelling of Pride & Prejudice, Bridget Jones' Diary (admittedly good, but hardly a "classic"), and Mean Girls (I'll have to take others' word for it, since I never saw it). What I am opposed to is horrendous, pointless writing. This was a waste of paper. Stealing everything, practically verbatim, from these three movies (because I doubt seriously that this author ever read a book) and hoping that giving the characters slight variations in a name, or sibling, will render this "new" story witty, and clever, and "classic". It was AWFUL. The only thing it succeeded in doing was to cause me to start a list of my own -- Bridget Jones style: Stupid, poorly written books finished in the last 10 minutes: 1; Number of times I wanted to light a match to its pages while still in my hands: 18,737; Additional books I will read by this author: 0
December 28, 2021
Cute, funny, charming, lovely and sweet!
A fun re-write on Pride & Prejudice and Bridget Jones' Diary with just enough sparkling personality to work on its own! Can't wait for the next one!
And thanks to Karen for reading it with me! <3
February 21, 2018
It's Absolutely Fabulous!! A mash up of Bridget Jones' Diary and P&P with a hint of something else.
The Duke is dead and his heir is living on a horse farm in Maryland, USA. When the new Duke and his three sisters hit London the ton will never be the same.
Lady Bridget slips at her first ball and ends up flat on her back in a ballroom she is rescued by Mr. Wright and his brother Lord Darcy. Her American manners are surprising to say the least. She asks "If we are never introduced did this conversation actually happen?" When forced on a reducing diet by her aunt the Duchess (nit pick since the Duke is dead she should be the Dowager Duchess; but perhaps like the Queen Mum Josephine was having none of that Dowager word); our Bridget ponders if she decided to be a spinster "She could have a cottage by the sea and eat cake for breakfast."
As the tale progresses Bridget goes from thinking of him as Dreadful Darcy to dearest Darcy. Lord Darcy is a hero's hero. Always stepping in and saving the day when he isn't ravaging Bridget in the butler's pantry.
Now this book is written in mostly modern language, there are two good snogging scenes and one very descriptive love making scene. Further there is a scandal involving the love that dare not speak its name; so this isn't for the kiddies.
I am on the path to having reread the first three so I can read the fourth.
The Duke is dead and his heir is living on a horse farm in Maryland, USA. When the new Duke and his three sisters hit London the ton will never be the same.
Lady Bridget slips at her first ball and ends up flat on her back in a ballroom she is rescued by Mr. Wright and his brother Lord Darcy. Her American manners are surprising to say the least. She asks "If we are never introduced did this conversation actually happen?" When forced on a reducing diet by her aunt the Duchess (nit pick since the Duke is dead she should be the Dowager Duchess; but perhaps like the Queen Mum Josephine was having none of that Dowager word); our Bridget ponders if she decided to be a spinster "She could have a cottage by the sea and eat cake for breakfast."
As the tale progresses Bridget goes from thinking of him as Dreadful Darcy to dearest Darcy. Lord Darcy is a hero's hero. Always stepping in and saving the day when he isn't ravaging Bridget in the butler's pantry.
Now this book is written in mostly modern language, there are two good snogging scenes and one very descriptive love making scene. Further there is a scandal involving the love that dare not speak its name; so this isn't for the kiddies.
I am on the path to having reread the first three so I can read the fourth.
April 24, 2019
fun Bridget Jones/Pride & Prejudice historical romance mashup with Mean Girls references
July 1, 2016
I loved it. I didn't quite finish Pride and Prejudice (I began to wonder if it was one of those books everyone says they love even if they don't just so no one will judge them) and while I've seen the movie, I haven't read Bridget Jones's Diary. It was very similar to both but this wasn't a deterrent for me at all. I would definitely put this in the category of light historical because a few phrases that seemed a bit modern were in there but I'm perfectly happy reading a light historical, especially one that is so much fun. I loved reading from Darcy's POV and Colin Firth was constantly popping into my head, which cannot be a bad thing. Looking forward to Amelia's story!!
March 4, 2016
Here's the problem with this book. I love Maya Rodale's historical novels. I even kind of enjoyed the short contemporary ones she wrote to accompany her Wallflowers, even though they're not quite my cup of tea. So I went into this book expecting to like it.
There's nothing wrong with the writing. It's as good as ever, and I can't say I didn't enjoy it in some respects.
But I also never EVER stopped seeing this book as a rehash of Pride & Prejudice, Bridget Jones' Diary, and the series title reminded me of the Kardashians a bit too much for my liking. (And apparently, there are Mean Girls references, but I haven't seen that movie in its entirety, so...)
The plot doesn't work. I don't mind books inspired by others. I liked Eloisa James' When Beauty Tamed the Beast even though it's a shameless House fanfiction set in the Regency period. If you're going to do this, you need to pick a story. And naming your characters Bridget and Colin Wright, Lord Darcy? You're killing me. I can never stop thinking about the source material. I finished it, it's okay. But I'll probably not reread it, and I'm less likely to pick up the second book.
There's nothing wrong with the writing. It's as good as ever, and I can't say I didn't enjoy it in some respects.
But I also never EVER stopped seeing this book as a rehash of Pride & Prejudice, Bridget Jones' Diary, and the series title reminded me of the Kardashians a bit too much for my liking. (And apparently, there are Mean Girls references, but I haven't seen that movie in its entirety, so...)
The plot doesn't work. I don't mind books inspired by others. I liked Eloisa James' When Beauty Tamed the Beast even though it's a shameless House fanfiction set in the Regency period. If you're going to do this, you need to pick a story. And naming your characters Bridget and Colin Wright, Lord Darcy? You're killing me. I can never stop thinking about the source material. I finished it, it's okay. But I'll probably not reread it, and I'm less likely to pick up the second book.
July 21, 2018
So picture this:
“Pride & Prejudice” have a baby with “Bridget Jones’ Diary”.
They produce twins, called
“Pride & Prejudice” And “Bridget Jones’ Diary”
That sums up this book.
Especially when you have paid for it.
That said. If you love “Pride & Prejudice” (the book and film) and “Bridget Jones’ Diary” (the movie, not the book, let's make that clear)
You’re probably going to like this book!
It’s funny, it has all the scenes you probably know by heart, so what’s not to like?
****
2.5 stars
*****
“Pride & Prejudice” have a baby with “Bridget Jones’ Diary”.
They produce twins, called
“Pride & Prejudice” And “Bridget Jones’ Diary”
That sums up this book.
Especially when you have paid for it.
That said. If you love “Pride & Prejudice” (the book and film) and “Bridget Jones’ Diary” (the movie, not the book, let's make that clear)
You’re probably going to like this book!
It’s funny, it has all the scenes you probably know by heart, so what’s not to like?
****
2.5 stars
*****
January 16, 2016
Review posted on Got Fiction?
Reading this hot on the heels of Sarah MacLean's The Rogue Not Taken, I feel like I picked the right choice. It's a fun and funny chaser. While MacLean went with a plot along the lines of "What if they had TMZ in the Regency era?" Rodale entitles this series Keeping Up With the Cavendishes. So while they have a similar concept, both books are completely different, and both are completely wonderful in their own rights.
This book is for fans of Bridget Jones' Diary with a little Mean Girls thrown in. As much as you'd enjoy the book whether you've seen it or not, you'll get more out of it if you've watched the movie.
Bridget's family has just come to London from America to take over one of the oldest titles in the country, and many of the ton don't like it. The legend states that Bridget's father, who was brother to the Duke of Durham, stole the duke's prize horse and left for America where he married his love and began a successful horse breeding business. Bridget, her brother the new duke, and her sisters are at the point where they haven't fully decided to stay in England, but they feel that they need to give it a shot. Bridget especially, since she feels as if she never fit in back home. But she doesn't fit in with the ton either.
Colin Wright, Lord Darcy, is the very epitome of an English gentleman. He has perfected that bored, disdainful look we read about, and he is simply aghast at the Durham title passing to Americans, no matter that their father was raised in England and the duke's brother. When Bridget falls at a ball, he and his brother are there, and he's both surprised and flummoxed that she jokes about it. She isn't what he expected. And that bothers him. He has no room in his life for fun and funny women. He has a lady he's pretty much expected to propose to, and she's the perfect lady. But maybe he doesn't need perfect?
Now, even though I liked this, and truly enjoyed the majority of it, some parts bothered me. Lady Bridget behaved like a teenager for a good portion of this book. And she's too old for that. The "on Wednesdays we wear pink" thing gave me a little smile, and as far as the mean girls Bridget takes up with to ensure her popularity level, I didn't mind that. There are mean girls at all ages, not just high school, so I get it. But it took up way too much of the book. She stopped being herself, and instead became a mean girl too. Not for a short bit, but for a good majority of the book. I didn't like how immaturely they behaved. At that point this did feel like high school, not a lady in her twenties. I stopped liking Bridget.
And of course, as the title, and the movie, state, Bridget has a diary. And she fills her diary with all sorts of things. Every sort of thing. And then someone steals the diary. And blackmails her with it. But not for money, oh no, she's blackmailed for something far more precious to her.
I like this author, and I enjoyed this book, and I really enjoyed Darcy falling for Bridget. The frenemy/mean girls aspect was the only thing I didn't really care for. I really look forward to the next in the series, though, and I hope her brother gets a book. I really liked Bridget's brother.
The best thing I can say about this book is that it made me go read older Maya Rodale books. I mean, I was so into the delightful world she's created, that I didn't want to leave! I'm so happy when I find an author with an extensive backlist!
So while Bridget bothered me when she turned into one of the mean girls she so despised, it didn't ruin the book for me, and I am definitely excited to read the next book in the Cavendish series.
***ARC courtesy of Avon Books
Reading this hot on the heels of Sarah MacLean's The Rogue Not Taken, I feel like I picked the right choice. It's a fun and funny chaser. While MacLean went with a plot along the lines of "What if they had TMZ in the Regency era?" Rodale entitles this series Keeping Up With the Cavendishes. So while they have a similar concept, both books are completely different, and both are completely wonderful in their own rights.
This book is for fans of Bridget Jones' Diary with a little Mean Girls thrown in. As much as you'd enjoy the book whether you've seen it or not, you'll get more out of it if you've watched the movie.
Bridget's family has just come to London from America to take over one of the oldest titles in the country, and many of the ton don't like it. The legend states that Bridget's father, who was brother to the Duke of Durham, stole the duke's prize horse and left for America where he married his love and began a successful horse breeding business. Bridget, her brother the new duke, and her sisters are at the point where they haven't fully decided to stay in England, but they feel that they need to give it a shot. Bridget especially, since she feels as if she never fit in back home. But she doesn't fit in with the ton either.
Colin Wright, Lord Darcy, is the very epitome of an English gentleman. He has perfected that bored, disdainful look we read about, and he is simply aghast at the Durham title passing to Americans, no matter that their father was raised in England and the duke's brother. When Bridget falls at a ball, he and his brother are there, and he's both surprised and flummoxed that she jokes about it. She isn't what he expected. And that bothers him. He has no room in his life for fun and funny women. He has a lady he's pretty much expected to propose to, and she's the perfect lady. But maybe he doesn't need perfect?
Now, even though I liked this, and truly enjoyed the majority of it, some parts bothered me. Lady Bridget behaved like a teenager for a good portion of this book. And she's too old for that. The "on Wednesdays we wear pink" thing gave me a little smile, and as far as the mean girls Bridget takes up with to ensure her popularity level, I didn't mind that. There are mean girls at all ages, not just high school, so I get it. But it took up way too much of the book. She stopped being herself, and instead became a mean girl too. Not for a short bit, but for a good majority of the book. I didn't like how immaturely they behaved. At that point this did feel like high school, not a lady in her twenties. I stopped liking Bridget.
And of course, as the title, and the movie, state, Bridget has a diary. And she fills her diary with all sorts of things. Every sort of thing. And then someone steals the diary. And blackmails her with it. But not for money, oh no, she's blackmailed for something far more precious to her.
I like this author, and I enjoyed this book, and I really enjoyed Darcy falling for Bridget. The frenemy/mean girls aspect was the only thing I didn't really care for. I really look forward to the next in the series, though, and I hope her brother gets a book. I really liked Bridget's brother.
The best thing I can say about this book is that it made me go read older Maya Rodale books. I mean, I was so into the delightful world she's created, that I didn't want to leave! I'm so happy when I find an author with an extensive backlist!
So while Bridget bothered me when she turned into one of the mean girls she so despised, it didn't ruin the book for me, and I am definitely excited to read the next book in the Cavendish series.
***ARC courtesy of Avon Books
February 23, 2016
4.5 Stars
Bridget Cavendish never expected to be Lady Bridget Cavendish, but after her brother inherits a Dukedom, that’s exactly who she becomes. Only…she doesn’t quite know how Lady Bridget Cavendish ought to behave, she always seems to be getting it all wrong. And Lord Darcy always seems to be their to witness it. Lord Darcy, the perfect English gentleman, with impeccable manners and a superior attitude that never fails to leave Bridget angry, unsure…and ever since she saw him emerge wet from that lake, she may have accidentally tumbled him in to, he also leaves her feeling hot and bothered in an entirely different way.
How could I resist a book based on Pride and Prejudice and Bridge Jones Diary? I couldn’t, and thank goodness for that. Retellings are always popular and although I don’t go out my way to find them I think, if done well, they can add something to a story. I enjoyed both Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones Diary and I loved it when I saw the parallels in this book, I am more familiar with P&P so I saw the most similarities there, including a very insulting marriage proposal, a few choice lines and of course Darcy. I also enjoyed Maya Rodale’s rendition of the “Lake” scene; seeing Darcy emerge gloriously wet is always a treat.
As you can imagine from the title, this is a fairly light-hearted and funny romance, readers who like Julia Quinn’s style (such as myself!) will also enjoy Lady Bridget’s Diary as they have a similar type of humour. Rodale’s characters were also very likable, Bridget has three other siblings, her two sister of which she is the middle child and their older brother, the new duke. I hope all of the Cavendish’s get their own book, as each one from what we saw of them have their own quirks and that would seem to make an interesting read. As for Bridget, her unsuccessful attempts at trying to fit into the ton although amusing, make her seem very relateable, and I very much liked her.
Then we come to Darcy, it was a brave move using not only the “Darcy Template” as a hero but his name as well, he is such a beloved and well known romantic hero from literature that their will inevitably be high expectations. Now, I did enjoy Lord Darcy in this book, I do like an arrogant stuffy hero, which I think stems from my love of Mr Darcy ironically enough; however, he wasn’t THE Darcy of my imagination, so I didn’t really fall in love with him. Would it have made a difference if she didn’t use the Darcy name, thus putting him up for comparison? Maybe.
Lady Bridget’s Diary was a great read, funny, romantic and packed full of characters that I can’t wait to read more about, the next book in this series is one I am highly anticipating and will be pouncing on as soon as I can.
March 7, 2018
THIS book is going on my top 10 list for sure. This was such a fun and enjoyable read - I highly recommend reading it.
I was amazed at how the author kept the flow so similar to Bridget Jones' Diary and Pride and Prejudice, which is what the former is based on. I would imagine it was extremely complicated to replicate both stories. And then on top of that, all the siblings in this story overlap and there stories are told in separate books and occurring within the same timeframe without one hiccup! Incredibly impressive.
The Cavendishes' are a fiercely protective and close family thrown into the shark invested waters of the Haute Ton. Bridget so wants to fit in and everything she does meets with hilarity. Darcy is depicted perfectly and I loved his fascination with Bridget. All the characters are witty and some of the situations so comical, I was laughing out loud.
I would read this again and again. If I had a complaint, it would be that there were not enough romantic encounters (translation - sex). It's in there, don't get me wrong, but I would have liked more.
You must read this and go onto read the next three in the series. I got through them only to have to wait for the 4th - agony! And while you are at it, read all of Maya Rodale's books - they are all good.
I was amazed at how the author kept the flow so similar to Bridget Jones' Diary and Pride and Prejudice, which is what the former is based on. I would imagine it was extremely complicated to replicate both stories. And then on top of that, all the siblings in this story overlap and there stories are told in separate books and occurring within the same timeframe without one hiccup! Incredibly impressive.
The Cavendishes' are a fiercely protective and close family thrown into the shark invested waters of the Haute Ton. Bridget so wants to fit in and everything she does meets with hilarity. Darcy is depicted perfectly and I loved his fascination with Bridget. All the characters are witty and some of the situations so comical, I was laughing out loud.
I would read this again and again. If I had a complaint, it would be that there were not enough romantic encounters (translation - sex). It's in there, don't get me wrong, but I would have liked more.
You must read this and go onto read the next three in the series. I got through them only to have to wait for the 4th - agony! And while you are at it, read all of Maya Rodale's books - they are all good.
September 11, 2016
2-1/2 stars
I was looking forward to reading this, I have enjoyed Maya Rodale books in the past but this was a disappointment. I liked Darcy and Bridget just fine but I found the references to Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary too distracting. By the time I got to the end of the book I just didn't care anymore about their story, it felt like I'd been here and read that already. I am certainly not an expert on how Americans spoke in 1824 but multiple times while reading this I felt Bridget and her siblings sounded more British than American and for some reason that irked me. Also, at times I found the dialogue to be too modern, certain expressions and sayings were more in line with how we speak today rather than in 1824 in England or America. Overall not an unpleasant read but not an earth moving one either. Hopefully the other books in the series will be better.
I was looking forward to reading this, I have enjoyed Maya Rodale books in the past but this was a disappointment. I liked Darcy and Bridget just fine but I found the references to Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary too distracting. By the time I got to the end of the book I just didn't care anymore about their story, it felt like I'd been here and read that already. I am certainly not an expert on how Americans spoke in 1824 but multiple times while reading this I felt Bridget and her siblings sounded more British than American and for some reason that irked me. Also, at times I found the dialogue to be too modern, certain expressions and sayings were more in line with how we speak today rather than in 1824 in England or America. Overall not an unpleasant read but not an earth moving one either. Hopefully the other books in the series will be better.
April 18, 2018
I LOVED THIS BOOK! Like almost everything. I loved Darcy, I loved Bridget, I loved her sisters and brother and Rupert and oh guys while I almost always adore Rodale's books I have never been so ecstatically over the moon with prsctically all facets since...oh I can't remember and it doesn't really matter.
June 24, 2016
The diary entries read as if written by a 13 year old. The repetitive dialogue, the shallow characters, and the Pride and Prejudice/Bridget Jones rip off grew tiresome. By the end of the book, I didn't care what happened to the hero/heroine.
April 7, 2016
WHY WOULD YOU PUT MEAN GIRLS AND PRIDE & PREJUDICE IN A BLENDER AND FART OUT A HALF-HEARTED STORY THAT USES THE BEST LINES OF BOTH AND HAS VERY LITTLE ELSE
March 23, 2016
An interesting spin on the classic Pride and Prejudice and a light, fluffy and romantic read, just like the doctor ordered.
The author did a fantastic job of keeping Darcy in line with The Darcy that we all know and love. The pride was there, and just as with the original story, I loved seeing him falling in love and saying the wrong thing and just losing that perfect control of his.
Bridget was sweet and adorable, and just perfect for the Darcy here.
There were many similarities to the original version, but quite a few differences too, and I enjoyed all of it.
The sexy times were sweet and romantic and I loved the ending.
Next time you’re in need of a sweet and light HR, this is the one to read.
August 13, 2016
This is a tricky one. The story itself could possibly be 4 stars, however the writing is definitely a 2, so we'll settle on 3.
The story: a mix of Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones' Diary, and Mean Girls. Has potential.
The writing: Most. Annoying. Writing. Style. Ever. You might think I'm exaggerating, but I'm truly amazed an editor would allow multiple sentences like the one I just wrote, and some unimaginative and repetitive phrasing. ("He likes me just the way I am" coming every other page.)
The story: a mix of Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones' Diary, and Mean Girls. Has potential.
The writing: Most. Annoying. Writing. Style. Ever. You might think I'm exaggerating, but I'm truly amazed an editor would allow multiple sentences like the one I just wrote, and some unimaginative and repetitive phrasing. ("He likes me just the way I am" coming every other page.)
March 1, 2016
This was such a fun and lovely escape to a reimagined Pride and Prejudice plot, situated in the same era as the original, but simplified and steamier, sprinkled with Brigit Jones's diary references. . I liked so much of the style of the author, it was easy and flowing - the characters were very familiar (but I guess that was the point) and the story did not hold any surprises, but I liked this anyway. It was a lighthearted escape.
October 2, 2017
lmao why are there so many bad reviews for this book? It was entertaining and a quick read. The smut is very minimal but I didn't mind at all! I loved how meta this was with its concept of mixing elements from both contemporary and classic novels/movies. Super fun read! I always love a Darcy like brooding hero with layers! And I liked how he was secretly roguish. Anyway, the book was funny and sweet! It's great for light reading and the side characters are also wonderful
March 5, 2016
This book wasn't bad...after all The Americans are coming was echoing throughout the country of England and everybody was braced! It was just a bit boring in places, but I am looking forward to Amelia's book, what was that minx up to while she was out of pocket? I am dying to know!
May 19, 2016
Great book! Funny, happy intriguing, heartfelt. I look forward to the next.
May 14, 2019
A re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice, combined with Bridget Jones' diary, focused on the Cavendishes, a family of Americans newly arrived in England after the brother inherits a dukedom.
This story is about the middle of the three sisters, Bridget, who is keeping a diary where she writes about her struggles to fit in the snobbish society of British aristocracy, only to find herself falling for one of its most well-respected members, Lord Darcy.
It was fun reading a story that was in part familiar, with some known names and similar characters to the original stories, yet with its share of twists.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Cavendish siblings' stories, starting with Amelia's next in Chasing Lady Amelia.
This story is about the middle of the three sisters, Bridget, who is keeping a diary where she writes about her struggles to fit in the snobbish society of British aristocracy, only to find herself falling for one of its most well-respected members, Lord Darcy.
It was fun reading a story that was in part familiar, with some known names and similar characters to the original stories, yet with its share of twists.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Cavendish siblings' stories, starting with Amelia's next in Chasing Lady Amelia.
May 17, 2022
3.5. It’s a cute retelling of P&P mixed with Bridget Jones Diary. Very light and fluffy. I’m more interested in the other siblings stories.
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