To Sir Phillip, With Love: Bridgerton: Eloise's Story

Overall it was okay. Reading was worthwhile if only to continue the Bridgerton series storyline. In comparison to the other books in the series, this one fell a little short of being engaging and didn't feel fulfilling in the end. Was difficult to finish, particularly because the characters felt hollow, and Eloise's choices felt rushed without being true to the character. The uncomfortable and borderline creepy match is disappointing for a character who'd been so selective of matches previously.

I like Eloise and her independent woman spirit. I wish we could see her adventures but I know it's just not possible during the time that she lived. But I'm glad she married a man who embrace her for who she is and didn't force her to change to fit in. Sir Philip is not my favourite and some of his actions are debatable but he fit nicely with Eloise so I'm happy for her. Love her relationship with her stepchildren.

AudioBook Review Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4 I’ve been spotty on this series, so the opportunity to get this title in audio was a treat – and the story managed to offer something different in a genre where it sometimes feels as if there is no new territory to explore! In this title, Eloise has sent a letter of condolence to Sir Phillip after the death of his wife just over a year past. Leaving him with eight-year old twins, a pair of mischievous children that often lightened moments that were getting too charged, and helped to keep the angst that Philip was so good in creating at a lower level. But, the Bridgertons work like that – giving you a moment of emotionally charged scenes that quickly turn laughable because of the unique perspective each seems to hold. Yet, I digress. Eloise is adorable and headstrong – after her ‘innocent correspondence’ with Sir Phillip turns into an offer to meet and possibly marry – and she hops off secretly in the middle of the night to arrive on his doorstep unannounced. Firstly – this is never done by the ‘proper ladies’ of the time, and secondly – it was the perfect way to explain herself at the bone-deep level to Phillip – her determination to go for what she wants, jumping both feet in, and everyone else scrambles to keep up. And Phillip did have to scramble – he was more than a bit of an arse to start – engendering sympathy for his losses but no empathy because of his behavior. The majority of the story is filled with pranks with Phillip at the center, and Eloise’s decisions and thoughts about his offer of marriage – something she took time with, if not real, actual thought: prodding Phillip to lighten up and grow to become what she and his children need from him. It took a while, but with the Bridgerton’s subtle and not so prodding, humor and the children’s ability to bring sense and lightness into what could become dark moments, Quinn managed to bring a unique and fun trip to a happy ending for all. Narration for this story is provided by Rosalyn Landor, and she perfectly captured Eloise in her tone, delivery and sense of determination that presented her as the headstrong and often impulsive person she was. Still, there were moments of sweetness where her own innocence and ability to retreat to “dreamy girl” on occasion. She also captured Phillip and the gradual removal of the straightjacket-stiffness that he displayed early on, loosened with the influence of Eloise, his children and the always-amusing Bridgertons. A lovely story that kept giving back with little moments that encourage you to read on, and then discover more about those Bridgerton people. I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Recorded Books for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.