- This page is about the book. For the Netflix episode of the same name, see The Viscount Who Loved Me
The Viscount Who Loved Me is the second novel in the Bridgerton series, by Julia Quinn. The book follows Anthony Bridgerton, the eldest Bridgerton child, in his quest for a wife.
Synopsis[]
1814 promises to be another eventful season, but not, This Author believes, for Anthony Bridgerton, London’s most elusive bachelor, who has shown no indication that he plans to marry.
And in truth, why should he? When it comes to playing the consummate rake, nobody does it better…
—Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers, April 1814
But this time the gossip columnists have it wrong. Anthony Bridgerton hasn’t just decided to marry—he’s even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended’s older sister, Kate Sheffield — the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate is the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams…
Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands — and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate is determined to protect her sister — but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony’s lips touch hers, she’s suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself…[1]
Plot[]
Prologue
Anthony Bridgerton is born to Lord and Lady Bridgerton who, unlike other ton families, are a loving couple and hands-on when raising their children. Though Edmund loved all his children equally, Anthony had a special bond with his dad, since he was the eldest, and looked up to him.
When Edmund died, Anthony was 18, and had just returned from a ride with Benedict. He came home and found Daphne, ten years old, crying, and she told him Papa was dead from a bee sting. Anthony was in denial, but when he saw the servants’ faces, he realized it was true. He went to his parents’ room where a very pregnant Violet was sitting next to his father’s body.
After putting his mother to bed, Anthony sat with his father all night. When he left, he decided he could never be better than his father, even in longevity. Since Edmund died at the young age of 38, Anthony decided that he would probably not live past 38, either.
Chapter 1
April 20, 1814
Lady Whistledown describes the difference between a rake and a Rake, with a capital R. She classifies Viscount Anthony Bridgerton as the latter, and believes he will not be giving up his ways to get married this season.
Kate Sheffield talks about Lady Whistledown and Anthony with her half-sister, Edwina, and stepmother, Mary. Edwina has been named the Season’s Incomparable. Both Kate and Edwina are debuting in the same year because the Sheffields couldn't afford two separate trips to London. Kate doesn’t have much interest in the season or being in London.
While talking about evening gowns, Kate mentions she gets compliments about Edwina from gentlemen. Edwina wonders why, and Kate reminds her she declared that she would only marry with her sister’s approval at the Smythe-Smith musicale. Edwina still stands by this, saying Kate is harder to please. Edwina tells Kate she’d love to marry a scholar; the one person Kate refuses to let Edwina marry is Viscount Bridgerton.
Anthony, meanwhile, is at White’s with Benedict and Colin, where he announces his intention to get married. After getting over their shock, Benedict and Colin respond to Anthony’s query about who is the diamond of the season: Edwina Sheffield. Anthony asks if she’s smart, as he insists on having an intelligent wife. Colin confirms she is, and Anthony decides he will marry Edwina.
Chapter 2
April 22, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports that Viscount Bridgerton was dancing with more than one eligible lady. She believes that she was wrong, and the Viscount might be looking to get married this season.
Kate is distressed over Edwina and Anthony dancing at the ball. Mary and Kate argue over whether or not the Viscount is a good suitor for Edwina. When Mary reminds Kate that she’s looking for both her and Edwina, Kate feels sentimental, as Mary is the only mother she’s ever known. Mary then introduces Kate to Colin Bridgerton, and lets them chat. Kate assumes Colin is just like his brother, but quickly corrects herself. Colin takes it in good spirits, and the two chat.
Kate makes her farewell to Colin, who calls to Anthony after he finishes dancing with Edwina, insisting he meet Kate. Colin lets Anthony know Edwina requires Kate’s approval for a suitor. Anthony meets Kate, and finds her attractive in her own way. As soon as Kate and Colin start talking, Anthony realizes his brother misled him, and becomes angry with him. Colin says he’s engaged and can’t dance next with Kate, but insists Anthony take his place. Though Kate tries to back out, Anthony drags her to the dance floor.
Chapter 3
April 22, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports on Anthony dancing with Kate, and guesses he’s trying to gain her approval to marry Edwina, as Edwina declared in the Smythe-Smith musicale. She pokes fun at the musicale event.
Kate and Anthony head to the dance floor, where they engage in a battle of wits. Anthony asks upfront why she hates him, and Kate says because he’s a rake, she doesn’t trust him with her sister. Anthony mocks her for believing she knows so much about men, and assures her that she can’t manage Anthony. At the end of the dance, Kate intentionally steps on his foot, and Anthony retaliates by saying he is going to court Edwina and propose, if he finds her suitable. Kate says Edwina might not accept, but Anthony just sees that as a challenge, leaving Kate distressed.
The next afternoon, Kate is looking at the flowers sent to Edwina. Anthony comes by, startling Kate, who wonders why he got in without anyone informing her. Anthony guesses Mary told the butler to let suitors in, and Kate explains that Mary is her stepmother. She tells him Edwina is out, but Anthony reveals he’s brought bouquets for Edwina, Mary, and Kate. Kate reluctantly admits that it was thoughtful. Anthony admits he got the idea from a suitor who did the same when courting his sister, and ended up marrying her. Kate quickly fires back to not expect the same result. They again engage in a battle of wits.
Kate tells Anthony that Edwina is out with Berbrooke, whom Anthony is quick to make fun of. Kate calls for Mary so she and Anthony are not unchaperoned, and Anthony says he’ll wait for Edwina to return. Mary comes down, and is accosted by Kate’s dog, Newton. Kate goes to help Mary. When Newton comes in, though, Anthony’s amused to find he’s a small corgi.
Chapter 4
April 25, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports there was some incident that occurred at the Serpentine in Hyde Park, involving Viscount Bridgerton, Mr. Berbrooke, both Misses Sheffields, and a dog. All she knows is that the dog was victorious.
Mary notices Newton taking an interest in Anthony, and Kate argues he likes Mary too, but Mary doesn’t like his attention. Mary insists that Newton be taken for a walk, and Kate explains she got interrupted by Anthony. Mary, though, inveigles Anthony to join Kate and Newton, annoying Kate. Anthony agrees to go, simply to tease Kate. They continue to engage in verbal banter before leaving with Newton.
During the walk, Kate talks about how much she likes the sun, and is annoyed by her bonnet. Anthony goes to adjust it, and the two come in close proximity. Kate gets distracted, and Newton runs off, forcing both Kate and Anthony to run after him. They catch up with him at the Serpentine, where Kate realizes Newton spotted Berbrooke and Edwina, and is running towards her. Newton knocks Edwina backwards into the Serpentine. Anthony helps Edwina, furious at Kate and Newton. Kate walks up, worried about Edwina, and Anthony immediately tears into her for putting Edwina in danger. Kate argues it was an accident, and when Anthony refuses to listen, she purposely has Newton shake his wet form, causing everyone to get wet.
Anthony organizes a way to take Edwina home, and has Kate and Newton come back with Berbrooke. Kate realizes that Anthony was right about Berbrooke while being left alone with him.
Chapter 5
April 27, 1814
Lady Whistledown apologizes for her description of Kate’s dog, and explains who Newton is, though she doesn’t think his name befits his behavior.
Edwina becomes sick from her accident, and Kate tends to her. Kate is tense, asking Edwina what Anthony said to her on the drive back, but Edwina dismisses it, saying he didn't say anything memorable. Edwina and Kate quickly decide that Berbrooke is not a good suitor, though Edwina thinks the viscount should be considered. Kate is fiercely opposed to this. Edwina, though, finds it interesting that Anthony purposely teases Kate, knowing he needs her approval to marry Edwina. She laughs when Kate mentions Anthony likes to tease her. Edwina points out that Kate should look for a husband, too, but Kate tells Edwina that she’ll worry about her first, then look for a husband for herself.
Four days later, Edwina is still on bedrest, but Mary insists she and Kate attend the musicale being held at the Bridgerton household. Kate reluctantly goes. She is nervous going there, but is in awe when she sees Bridgerton House. Kate only hopes that Anthony doesn’t notice her.
Anthony, meanwhile, is in his study, and watches Kate the minute she arrives. He’s annoyed by his reaction to her, how he immediately feels desire. He remembered dreaming about her after the Serpentine fiasco, and was horrified by the erotic nature of his dream. Anthony was trying to keep it out of his mind, but with Kate at his house, it was, once again, difficult.
Anthony goes to join the musicale, being headlined by Maria Rosso, an Italian soprano and one of his former lovers. He thinks about “renewing his acquaintance” with Maria to get his mind off Kate, and hopes to avoid Kate, at any cost.
Chapter 6
April 27, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports on Lady Bridgerton’s musicale, describing Maria Rosso as an attractive young woman who could tempt any high society gentleman.
Kate is hyper aware of Anthony during the musicale, noticing him openly flirting with Maria. Mary gets her attention, also noticing her fixation on Anthony, though Kate brushes it off. Mary and Kate meet Violet and Eloise, and have a polite chat. They’re then stopped by Portia Featherington, who is looking for gossip about the Serpentine incident. Kate quickly brushes her off, and leaves to get lemonade for both Portia and Mary. She then excuses herself, and leaves the room for some air.
While in the hallway, Kate realizes Anthony and Maria are also headed her way, and unknowingly runs into the study to avoid them. To her horror, though, Anthony and Maria come into the study, and Kate ducks under the desk to hide.
Anthony can’t forget about Kate, even around Maria. When he goes to get a drink, he smells her scent of lilies and soap, and that is how he’s able to spot her under his desk. He quickly dismisses Maria, but not before taking a few literal steps on Kate. When the two of them are left alone, Kate quickly tells Anthony she was there by accident, but Anthony once again doesn’t believe her. He’s curious if she was looking for him, and quickly pulls her into a kiss.
Chapter 7
April 27, 1814
Lady Whistledown states the Featherington family was at the musicale, and that Philippa was talking to Nigel Berbrooke. She also comments on the Sheffields and how Edwina wasn’t present, which made Lady Bridgerton look visibly disappointed. She guesses that Lady Bridgerton is trying to match Anthony with Edwina.
Anthony kisses Kate, and is both shocked and allured by his attraction to her, and the fantasies he gets. Kate pushes him away, shocked that he kissed her, and even more amazed when he says that he wanted to. Kate is furious, since he’s supposed to be courting Edwina. She vows to never let Edwina marry him, and argues Anthony would never let one of his sisters marry someone like him. Anthony, though, tells her about Daphne marrying the Duke of Hastings, who was also a rake. Kate doesn’t believe Anthony will change like the duke did. She reminds him that he was trying to seduce Maria, even though he's courting Edwina. Anthony admits he doesn’t love Edwina, but lies that he might one day. Kate tries to leave, but Anthony reveals he’s got the key, so she won’t be able to. He purposely tosses it on the ground, and Kate picks it up. She gives him one more disdainful look and vows to never let him marry Edwina, before leaving.
Kate remains angry two days later, after flowers from Anthony arrive for Edwina, and an invitation to a country party hosted by Lady Bridgerton. Kate has no choice but to go, and dwells on the kiss, wondering how she’ll face the viscount again.
Chapter 8
April 29, 1814
Lady Whistledown talks about Lady’s Bridgerton’s country house party, featuring as many eligible young ladies as possible. She guesses Violet is trying to make sure one of her sons gets married, and there are many bets about whether one of them will be married this year. Lady Whistledown believes one of the sons will get married, but which one, and to who, she doesn’t know yet.
Anthony sits in his study at Aubrey Hall, thinking of his father. He decides to apologize to Kate. When their carriage arrives, Anthony watches as they get down, particularly focusing on Kate. Kate, meanwhile, admires Aubrey Hall, while poking some fun at the viscount. Mary reminds her Anthony is their host, and to be nice. Kate says she’ll be on her best behavior, but secretly hopes he’ll stay away from Edwina.
Kate, Mary and Edwina head inside, and greet Violet. Kate mentions that she prefers the country, and Violet says Anthony does, too. She also talks about her husband, and how his death has kept the family away from the country. Kate wonders about the feeling of true love. Kate asks about the gardens, and Violet encourages her to stroll and explore them. The Sheffields head upstairs to get refreshed.
Anthony talks to his mother about the Sheffield family. They also discuss what countenances a good match. Anthony tells his mother he’s going for a walk, and Violet suggests he head to the flower gardens. Anthony leaves, and Violet wonders which Sheffield sister he is interested in.
Anthony heads to the flower gardens, and finds Kate there, realizing his mother set him up. He notices Kate admiring a tulip, and approaches her, discussing flowers. Anthony also talks about his family, and notes Kate is not her usual defensive self. Kate admits she promised to be on her best behavior, eliciting a laugh from Anthony. He gives her one of the tulips, which Kate appreciates. Kate wonders why Anthony was looking for her, and Anthony admits he wasn’t, but does admit wanting to apologize to her. Kate thinks it’s about the kiss, but Anthony was actually thinking about what he said after the kiss. Kate is surprised, but accepts his apology. She clarifies that she hasn’t changed her mind about him and Edwina, and Anthony says he knew she wouldn’t.
The two walk back to the house, and Anthony starts to indulge in fantasies about Kate. He realizes marrying Edwina would make this complicated, but can’t help thinking about kissing Kate.
Chapter 9
April 29, 1814
Lady Whistledown says men are often in conflict between their head and heart, and women know they are often guided by something else entirely in their actions.
Anthony’s fantasies about Kate are interrupted by Colin when he and Kate return to the house. He tells them Daphne and Simon have arrived, and pokes fun at Anthony for opposing the match. Colin says Daphne suggested they play Pall Mall. Colin asks if Kate has played, which she denies, but is interested once Colin describes the game. He warns her that Bridgertons are cutthroat and competitive in Pall Mall, but Kate is even more interested by this. Anthony suggests including Edwina too, which distresses Kate, who says Edwina is resting. Anthony is undeterred, and says he’ll find her, and meet them in a half hour at the field. Kate reluctantly leaves with Colin.
Colin and Kate head down to the field, and Kate notes the time, estimating by when Anthony and Edwina should arrive. Colin opens the shed, and Kate notes the noise. Colin says it’s been a while since they played, and Kate says she would love to live here if she had a house like Aubrey Hall. Colin comments she’s a lot like Anthony, which Kate finds hard to believe. Colin comments on how they’re both the eldest, and have assumed responsibilities for the family. Kate is hoping her opinion of Anthony doesn’t change, despite his sincere apology.
Colin pulls out the Pall Mall cart just as Daphne and Simon arrive. Daphne introduces herself to Kate, who also says Edwina will be joining them with Anthony. Daphne and Kate leave to set up half the wickets, and Daphne tells her to make sure Anthony’s ball goes into the lake as revenge for the last time he made her sink her ball into the lake. Daphne tells Kate how she’s learned to manage her husband after growing up with four brothers. Simon overhears, and tells Kate he’s just learned to agree with his wife to keep her happy.
Kate becomes worried when Anthony and Edwina don’t show up, but Colin says not to worry, then asks her to choose her mallet color. Kate randomly chooses the black mallet, which Colin reveals is the mallet of death. Daphne purposely leaves the pink mallet for Anthony. The group wonders where Anthony and Edwina are, and Colin makes an offhanded joke about Anthony ravishing Edwina. Kate is not impressed, neither is Daphne. Kate fantasizes about killing the viscount with her mallet.
Anthony, meanwhile, is actually waiting for Edwina in his study, as she’s running late. The fact that Kate will become worried makes Anthony perfectly fine with being late. Edwina arrives, and apologizes for her tardiness. Anthony is surprised that he doesn’t have any reaction of desire to the stunningly beautiful Edwina. They make their way to the field, where Edwina tells him about her interest in books and reading. Anthony says he doesn’t like philosophy; Edwina says Kate doesn’t, either, noting it’s the first time she’s heard Anthony agree with Kate. Anthony sees that Edwina has almost as much spirit as Kate. They get to the field, where Anthony is distressed when he sees Kate with the mallet of death.
Chapter 10
May 2, 1814
Lady Whistledown says country house parties are notorious for spouses cheating with others and people becoming hastily engaged.
Colin gives Edwina the blue mallet, while Anthony reluctantly takes the pink mallet. Daphne tells Kate that the mallet of death is usually Anthony’s. The order is set up by age, and Simon goes first. Edwina is shocked by the arguments, but Kate tells her Pall Mall becomes competitive with the Bridgertons. Kate takes her turn, and her ball ends up near Anthony’s, which Daphne reacts nervously to. Kate doesn’t understand, till Anthony takes his turn, and purposely knocks Kate’s ball way off course, infuriating her. She warns Anthony he’ll pay for it.
Kate is behind later, while Anthony is winning. However, Colin knocks Anthony’s ball off course right next to Kate’s, infuriating Anthony and delighting Kate. She then purposely hits her ball so it sends Anthony’s ball right into the lake. Colin and Daphne praise Kate for her move. They decide to end the game. As they head back, Kate is surprised when Simon mentions Daphne is pregnant.
Edwina says the pink ball should be retrieved, and offers to retrieve it, but Anthony and Colin step in, and go get it. Colin leaves Anthony to get in the water, while he helps Edwina remove the wickets. Anthony wades in, and Kate appears, saying while she did want him to lose, she doesn’t want him to freeze to death. Anthony comes out of the water, and Kate gives him a towel to wipe his feet. Kate and Anthony head to the shed, put the equipment away, and head back to the house.
Chapter 11
May 4, 1814
Lady Whistledown says competition brings out the worst in a man and the best in a woman.
Anthony continues to glance at Kate as they head back. He understood why people would think she was not that beautiful in comparison to Edwina, but he finds her beautiful while watching her. He recalls that he never paid attention to Edwina during the Pall Mall game, but he did to Kate. Kate asks if it’ll rain, saying she hates rain. Anthony says it won’t be soon, and jokes she’s in the wrong country. Kate clarifies she likes gentle rain, but hates thunderstorms, which Anthony loves. Kate catches Anthony staring at her, and he laughs at her expression. He then asks for a boon in return for him losing at Pall Mall. He asks her if she still hates him. The two end up very close together, making Kate tongue tied. Anthony backs away, going to the house, while Kate stays behind, stunned and confused about what happened.
That evening, Kate waits as Edwina and Mary get ready for dinner. She’s still figuring out her emotions about Anthony. She spots Penelope, and the two decide to go down to dinner together. The two talk about Penelope’s yellow dress, which doesn’t suit her at all. Kate feels bad for Penelope, but Penelope says she’s resigned to having to listen to her mother.
In the drawing room, Kate and Penelope enter, and Kate immediately realizes where Anthony is. She immediately tries to avoid making any eye contact with him, but still enjoys the laid-back atmosphere of the country house party, unlike London. Penelope is distressed when she sees Cressida Cowper, a cruel debutante. Penelope explains Cressida has a personal grudge against her. Cressida then comes over, and starts making insulting remarks to both Penelope and her dress. Basil Grimston, Cressida’s male counterpart, is invited over by Cressida, and also starts insulting Penelope, as well. Kate tries to help Penelope, but can’t do much. Anthony then comes over, and Cressida’s entire demeanor changes. However, Anthony ignores her, saying he’s escorting Penelope in to dinner, making a cutting remark to Cressida in the process. Kate is delightfully surprised, as is Edwina, who has just arrived, and both admire Anthony for his heroic action.
Chapter 12
May 2, 1814
Lady Whistledown says a man with charm can be entertaining, while a man with good looks can be easy to watch, but she declares that a man with honor is the one that young ladies should be wanting.
That night, Kate is in her bed, unable to sleep. She’s thinking about Anthony; her opinion of him has started to change to more favorable. Kate goes downstairs, hoping to find a book to help her sleep. She heads to the library, but after getting there, a thunderstorm starts, and Kate becomes gripped with fear and terror. As the lightning and thunder continue, she crawls under a table.
Anthony is in his study, enjoying the thunderstorm. Eventually, he gets up, and heads outside. Before he can get to the stairs, though, he sees the light in the library. He finds Kate curled up under the table. He is shocked to see her like this, and stays to comfort her. Kate finally becomes lucid enough to talk, and the two talk about family — her father and mother, and his father. They talk about how they miss those they have lost.
Anthony asks about her fear of thunderstorms, and Kate says she’s had the fear all her life. She thinks it’s foolish, but Anthony assures her it’s not. The storms abates, and the two get up, and head out of the library. Kate thanks Anthony for his help; though Anthony insists he did nothing, Kate says he did everything.
Chapter 13
May 4, 1814
Lady Whistledown says any events of note in the ton will probably happen at the Bridgerton house party, including a scandal, which she says always happens at a house party.
Anthony wakes up late, unable to sleep initially after his encounter with Kate. He gets up, and sees her heading toward the garden through his window. He decides to follow her.
Kate decides to avoid the general crowd of the party, and goes back to the gardens to think in solitude. After observing Anthony over the last few days, she realizes that she no longer can object to him marrying Edwina. However, she silently admits that she’s attracted to him, but Kate refuses to ruin her sister’s happiness for her own.
Anthony finds her, and asks if she’s ok after last night, and Kate says she is, thanking him for keeping her company. Anthony is surprised when she says she’s usually alone during storms, but Kate explains she’s led her family to believe she no longer is scared of storms. Anthony says both Edwina and Mary are strong, and can help Kate if she tells them. She explains she tries to be strong, since she’s the oldest in her family, something Anthony sympathizes with.
Kate braces herself, and after some rambling, she finally tells Anthony that she no longer is objecting to his suit of Edwina. Anthony realizes that he’s not relieved, but rather slightly disappointed by her declaration. His desire for her is still running through him, but he simply expresses his relief.
Anthony then spots a bee near Kate, and becomes frozen with fear. Kate is scared, but when she sees it’s a bee, she brushes off the worry. Anthony, though, is worried the bee will kill Kate, the same way it killed his father. He tries to take Kate away, but she pulls away from him, causing the bee to sting her. Kate gets hurt, but quickly composes herself. She then looks at Anthony, who has become pale with fear. In a panic, he starts to hastily extract the venom with his handkerchief. Kate tries to assure him, but Anthony is still terrified by his father's death. Kate doesn’t believe it, but lets Anthony try to help her. Anthony says it’s still swollen, and uses his mouth to suck the venom out, shocking Kate. She looks up, and sees Mary, Violet, and Portia watching them.
Chapter 14
May 4, 1814
Lady Whistledown promises if a scandal erupts at the Bridgerton party, every detail will be made known to the London crowd, as there are many at the party who will gather the details.
Kate is horrified to be caught with Anthony by the three matrons. Kate recovers her senses, and pushes Anthony off her. Anthony lands on the ground, still panicked, until Violet calls out to him. His mother asks what happened, and Kate explains she was stung by a bee, but she’s fine. Violet realizes immediately what Anthony thought. Mary is shocked, while Portia delights in the scandal.
Mary gets Kate to come to her side, while Portia says they have to marry now that they were caught in a compromising position. Kate protests, but Portia replies the gossip will tarnish her; Anthony says there won’t be any gossip, and threatens Portia into silence. Annoyed, Portia then points out that anyone could have seen from the house, and Violet, alarmed, realizes the guest wing has full view of the garden. Kate still protests, but no one listens. After a few moments of silence, Anthony declares they will marry the following week. Violet is delighted, and heads inside with Mary to begin wedding planning.
Kate is skeptical, but Anthony says there is nothing else to do, and figures they’ll suit. Kate reminds him of Edwina, but Anthony says he never made Edwina any promises, and lets Kate decide what to tell her. Kate feels dejected, believing everyone will think she trapped Anthony into marriage. Anthony says Portia will never stay silent and he planned to get married this year, surprising Kate, who tells him she thought she’d never marry. Anthony is outraged, realizing Kate feels no self-worth because of being compared to Edwina. He initially was against marrying her, but then realized that the marriage will be agreeable to both of them – as long as they don’t fall in love. Kate silently agrees, having no choice, but Anthony sees she has doubts.
Anthony asks for privacy, and Violet drags Portia off. They move to a nearby gazebo that is hidden enough from anyone. Once they’re alone, Anthony quickly kisses Kate, and reveals that his desire for her is strong; Kate realizes her desire for him is also stoked. Kate still feels like she has fallen from grace, but Anthony firmly says she has not. He thinks about how satisfying and enjoyable their marriage will be. Kate tries to come up with reasons so Anthony will call off the wedding, but he stands to his word, and Kate knows she won’t be able to run from this scandal if she doesn’t marry him. Kate realizes she might be falling in love with Anthony, but wonders if Edwina is on his mind when he kisses her.
Chapter 15
May 11, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports on Anthony’s engagement to Kate. She also reports rumors that they were caught in a compromising position by Lady Featherington, but Anthony probably threatened her into silence.
Kate is overwhelmed by the attention she receives after Anthony announces their engagement at dinner. That night, Edwina tells Kate she is thrilled and not surprised, because Edwina saw Anthony was smitten with Kate. After they return to London, the Sheffields are visited by almost every member of the ton, who infuse their congratulations with skepticism, something Kate notices.
The wedding is set nine days after the garden incident, and Kate is dragged into shopping with Violet for her wedding trousseau. Kate realizes this is signifying the beginning of her new life. Two days before the wedding, she waits for Anthony to stop by, while both Mary and Edwina are out, and she’s alone with Newton.
Anthony arrives in London after spending the week thinking of Kate and their upcoming marriage. He is determined to not let himself love her, and plans to tell her such so she will understand their marriage will not be based on love. Anthony arrives at Kate’s house, and realizes he is being watched by many in the ton. Kate greets him, and offers him some tea.
Anthony then tells Kate that he can’t give her love, but promises to be faithful and respect her, and hopes she will give that to him in return. Though Kate is understanding, she is hurt, as she knows she could fall in love with him after their marriage. Anthony then gives her a betrothal ring, which Kate loves. Anthony pulls her into a kiss, unknowingly waking Newton, who shows affection for Anthony before being ordered by him to get back on the ground. Anthony quickly sets about seducing Kate, thrilling her, but pulls back before going too far. He leaves, letting her know he won’t be seeing her till the wedding day to appease his mother. Kate finds it thoughtful of him, and he leaves, feeling his marriage will be a good one.
Kate wonders how to interpret his actions, but decides if she falls in love with him, she’ll just have to keep it to herself.
Chapter 16
May 13, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports that she's not invited to Anthony and Kate’s small wedding. However, she promises to use her resources to get every detail possible to be read.
Kate sits in her bedroom the night before the wedding with all her packed belongings, still dazed and unsure of how her life is about to change. Edwina comes in, and asks if Kate’s scared. Kate says she’s nervous, which Edwina concurs to, saying she’s about to become a viscountess. She hopes Mary will come in soon to talk with Kate. Mary shows up, and quickly gets Edwina to leave, saying she will talk to Edwina the night before she gets married. Edwina reluctantly leaves.
Mary admits that her first marriage – before she married Kate’s father – was difficult, because she was unaware of the relationship between husband and wife, but wants both her daughters to have the knowledge she didn’t have. She tells Kate that a man always finds pleasure in making love to any woman, while a woman’s enjoyment depends on her husband. Mary asks if Anthony has kissed Kate, which she confirms, and she says she will enjoy his lovemaking if she likes his kisses. Mary says that while a man can enjoy any woman’s company, a woman will only enjoy a man who she truly loves. Mary tells Kate she believes the viscount will treat her respectfully and be faithful to her, so she won’t have anything to fear. Mary then leaves. Kate is still fearful, and wonders if Anthony pictured another woman when he would make love to her.
Anthony and Kate are married at Bridgerton house, with only their families present. After the reception, Kate and Anthony board a carriage, and head to Anthony’s private residence. Kate is still overwhelmed by the fact that she’s now a wife, a viscountess, and Lady Bridgerton. She asks Anthony for a respite from their wedding night, but Anthony asks what she could gain by waiting. Kate doesn’t know, and still tries to hold him at bay. Her arguments are fruitless, though, to both herself and Anthony. After always being overlooked for Edwina, Kate wishes that this one man – her husband – will not overlook her, but she feels she is, given the circumstances of their engagement.
Anthony and Kate arrive at his place, and Kate is introduced to his staff. After the introductions, Anthony realizes how scared Kate is, and they head upstairs to talk privately. Anthony wonders if another man forced himself on her, but Kate vehemently denies it. Anthony asks how he can help Kate, because he can’t wait for her. Kate looks at him, and realizes he is burning with desire. She realizes she is also feeling desire, and finally gives in to his tender affections.
Chapter 17
May 16, 1814
Lady Whistledown announces Anthony’s marriage to Kate, and sends her best wishes, also remarking that they’re a sensible and honorable couple, which is rare in the ton.
Anthony and Kate move towards his bed which, Anthony realizes, he’s never brought another woman to. The two eventually end up on the bed undressed, and Anthony comments on how beautiful Kate is. Kate immediately tenses, and Anthony coaxes her to reveal the reason. Kate admits that she doesn’t feel beautiful, and wonders if he thinks of Edwina when he’s in bed with her. Anthony is shocked by this, wondering how Kate doesn’t see how beautiful she is. He makes it clear, in no uncertain terms, that she’s the only woman he ever thinks about, and will ever think about. Kate believes him, stunned to see his desire burning in his face. The two consummate their wedding night.
Chapter 18
June 10, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports that despite rumors, she believes that Lord and Lady Bridgerton’s marriage is a love match. She comments on how the viscount always comes to his wife’s side when he attends a ball, making her smile with his whispers, and dances with her more than other couples do, which leads to speculation of romance.
Kate settles into her new, busy life as a wife and Lady Bridgerton. Her days are filled with duties and engagements as viscountess, and her nights are filled with passion she spends only with Anthony.
A month after the wedding, Kate has afternoon tea with Edwina, who tells Kate about all the gossip surrounding her and Anthony after the way he looked at Kate the night before at a ball. Edwina is convinced of Anthony’s love, but Kate deflects it. Edwina changes the topic, and reveals she has a suitor she’s interested in named Mr. Bagwell, a scholar she met at the country party. Kate sees Edwina’s interest, and suggests holding a party to meet him. Anthony comes home, surprising the sisters, and sits with them. Kate tells Anthony about Edwina’s suitor, and Anthony is interested in a “paternal sort of manner.” He tells Edwina he’d like to meet him, and the two share a brother-sister bonding moment.
After Edwina leaves, Kate prattles on about Mr. Bagwell, but Anthony is just thinking about how he’s purposely been avoiding Kate, in order to avoid falling in love with her. Today, though, he couldn’t stop thinking about her, and came home. Anthony eventually tells Kate he wants to set aside a dowry for Edwina, which makes Kate emotional, as she jumps into his lap and embraces him. He immediately starts seducing her, saying they can skip Lady Mottram’s ball that evening.
Chapter 19
June 13, 1814
Lady Whistledown reports that Lord and Lady Bridgerton were absent from Lady Mottram’s ball despite intending to come, which leads to speculation about where they were.
Anthony sleeps next to Kate as a rainstorm rages outside. Anthony worries if she’ll sleep, and watches Kate in the grips of a nightmare, eventually calling out for “Mama.” Anthony wonders what it means, and stays awake the rest of the night, worrying about Kate. She wakes up in the morning, and Anthony tells her what he heard while she was asleep. Kate is confused, and Anthony suggests she talk to Mary. Kate agrees, and Anthony goes with her.
Anthony and Kate head to Mary’s place, and Kate tells her how her fear of storms is still present, and it might have to do with her mother. Mary then reveals that Kate’s mother was sick for almost a week. The whole time, a huge thunderstorm raged, and Kate was kept away in her own room. The night her mother died, though, the servants were distracted, and Kate found her way to her mother’s room. Kate’s father tried to get her out, but a lightning bolt hit, and Kate’s mother suddenly sat up, but immediately died. Kate cried on her mother’s body until she was exhausted, and only then could her father and the servants take her away. Kate’s father asked her about it, but she shut down, and he thought she didn’t remember.
Kate embraces Mary, thanking her for telling the story. Kate says she doesn’t remember, but she feels better knowing where her fear comes from. Anthony feels emotional as he looks at the two of them. Kate watches him, and realizes she's in love with Anthony.
Chapter 20
June 13, 1814
Lady Whistledown suspects Edwina has fallen in love with a mysterious gentleman, as she is not dancing at parties or mingling with the crowd. She wonders if Edwina met him at the country party, but is unsure.
Kate tells Anthony that she feels better about storms, and believes she’ll sleep through one next time. While telling Anthony how she always felt like she would die during storms, Anthony recalls his own belief and fear that he’ll die young, like his father. He realizes that he has fallen in love with Kate, and wonders how much time with her he has left. Unable to say it, Anthony pulls Kate close, and they make love. Anthony watches her afterwards, until Kate wakes up, and says she hopes they’ll stay like this “always and forever.” Anthony becomes agitated hearing this, and quickly gets dressed, then leaves, confusing Kate.
Chapter 21
June 15, 1814
Lady Whistledown firmly states that she believes Lord and Lady Bridgerton were a love match, despite rumors they were forced to marry.
Kate is eating breakfast alone, wondering where Anthony is, when she gets a message from Eloise, saying he’s at Bridgerton House. Kate heads over, and Eloise tells her Anthony’s been in his study, looking miserable. Kate goes in to the study, and wakes up a sleeping Anthony. She tries to ask him what is wrong, but Anthony quickly shuts her down, hurting her feelings, and she leaves, while Anthony wallows in guilt.
Anthony gets drunk, and ends up at the club, hungover, where Benedict and Colin find him. They presume Kate kicked him out, and make fun of his state. Eventually, they tell him to go home, apologize, and tell Kate he loves her. Anthony realizes they're right, as he wants to spend every moment he has with Kate, loving her. He heads out to get home, but finds Kate has gone out with Edwina, Mr. Bagwell, and Newton. Anthony heads to the park, impatient to find Kate. He reaches Rotten Row, and is waylaid by Lady Danbury. While she’s talking, they both notice a carriage going haywire, and Anthony realizes it’s Kate’s carriage. To his horror, before he can reach, the carriage crashes.
Chapter 22
June 15, 1814
Lady Whistledown insists she’s not a cynic, despite popular opinion, and loves a happy ending.
Anthony reaches the carriage, and finds Edwina, who explains that Mr. Bagwell lost control of the carriage when Newton got loose. They’re fine, but Kate is trapped under the carriage. Anthony asks Edwina to get the horses loose while he tries to get Kate out. He sees her unconscious in the wreckage, and desperately tries to pull her out. He keeps saying how it’s supposed to be his time, not hers. Kate awakens, hearing this. Anthony asks if she’s ok, and Kate says her leg hurts. She asks why he’s here, and Anthony says he came to tell her he loves her. Anthony finally manages to pull Kate out just as Edwina, Mr. Bagwell, and Newton return. They all realize that Kate’s leg is broken. Kate gets a glimpse, and promptly passes out from shock.
Kate is brought home, where physicians attend to her leg while Anthony hovers protectively over her. Kate is distressed she’ll be on bed rest for a month, but Anthony promises to keep her company. Kate tells Anthony she loves him, and Anthony admits he was wrong to tell her not to love him. Kate asks about what he said at the park, and Anthony hesitates, but eventually opens up to Kate about his belief of not living longer than his father did. Kate then tells him how she could’ve died today, and how death should not make them stop living, or experiencing everything life has to offer. Anthony admits he didn’t want to fall in love to cause her pain, but now he realizes he just wants to live with her. They both affirm their love for each other, and get start getting frisky in bed.
Epilogue
September 17, 1823
Lady Whistledown reports that Lord Bridgerton celebrated his 39th birthday with a private family party. He and Lady Bridgerton had a short concert, him on the trumpet and her on the flute, that was so bad, their son Miles finally begged them to stop, to the relief of the partygoers.
Anthony says Whistledown must have a spy in the family. Kate reminds him that she was off on his birthday by a day. It’s almost midnight on Anthony’s 39th birthday, a day he never thought he’d live to see. With Kate, though, every day has helped him believe it was more possible. Kate mentions how Whistledown talked about Colin, but Anthony tells her he just wants to enjoy the night with her, and they both start to get busy in bed.
Elsewhere, Lady Whistledown starts writing her September 19, 1823 column.
Notes and Trivia[]
- The Viscount Who Loved Me focuses on Kate and Anthony's relationship, the subject of season two of the Netflix series Bridgerton.
- Julia Quinn wrote a second epilogue for Anthony and Kate. It is included in The Bridgerton: Happily Ever After.
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