Because of Miss Bridgerton

Quinn (The Sum of All Kisses) skips back a generation in her best-selling Bridgerton family series, establishing the relationships and connections of the family during the late 18th century. Billie Bridgerton is a reckless tomboy who grew up playing with her neighbors Andrew and Edward Rokesby. She's dismayed to wind up trapped on a farmhouse roof with their disapproving older brother, George. Billie and George have never been friends, but they keep being thrown together in awkward situations, such as a house party to celebrate Andrew's leave from the navy. Soon they join up on purpose to locate Edward, who's missing from his regiment in the American colonies, and they realize that their time together has changed the nature of their relationship. George and Billie are clear preludes to their descendants, and their love hinges on both their self-discoveries and their interactions. The dangling threads of other characters may be frustrating for those looking for a standalone experience. Agent: Steve Axelrod, Axelrod Agency. (Mar.)