The Other Miss Bridgerton: A Bridgertons Prequel

Quinn’s superlative third prequel to her Bridgerton Regency series (after The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband) introduces one of her most delightful couples yet. Adventurous and curious Poppy Bridgerton finds a smuggler’s cave on the coast of Dorset and is taken captive by the privateers who claim it. Capt. Andrew Rokesby is traveling under an assumed name, under orders to get secret government documents to Lisbon as soon as possible, when Poppy, his neighbors’ cousin, is deposited in his cabin. Although he cannot let Poppy roam the ship or reveal his true identity to her, he does his best to make her comfortable. Charming discussions of geography, equal education for men and women, and family dynamics create a deep connection between the pair that sustains them through the voyage to Lisbon and during their separation afterward. Quinn’s clever dialogue makes the characters sparkle, and Andrew’s passion for engineering especially educates and entertains. This is a real treat for Quinn’s fans and anyone who loves historical romance. Agent: Steve Axelrod, Axelrod Agency. (Nov.)