5 Reasons To Read Bridgerton Books Even 3 Years After Netflix Series Premiere

The journey of Bridgerton Season 3 on Netflix is truly triumphant. The first part, released on May 16th, broke many streaming records and shows no signs of slowing down. Especially since the second part is just around the corner, which means a new wave of eyeballs and social media buzz.

There's no doubt that the story of Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton will bring many new fans to the Bridgerverse, which already includes two Bridgerton sibling romances and the prequel about Queen Charlotte and her arranged marriage to King George. But that's not all.

Everyone knows that the Netflix show is based on Julia Quinn's romantic book series. But not everyone has started reading them. Some don't want to read what they've already seen, some think it's too late to start now that the show is already three and a half years old, some just don't know if the novels are worth their time.

If you are wondering if the Bridgerton books are worth reading, trust us, they are. Here are just a few of the reasons why.

Deeper Dive into the Characters

Julia Quinn's original series consists of nine books, eight spotlighting one of the Bridgerton siblings and Happily Ever After offering a collection of short epilogues that tie up loose ends from the individual stories. Of course, the format allows these novels to provide a richer and more in-depth exploration of the Bridgertons and their partners than the television adaptation.

Through the books, readers can spend more time with beloved characters such as Kate, Penelope, Anthony and Colin, while also getting acquainted with future stars of the series like Gregory and Hyacinth.

Different Stories

The Netflix adaptation is quite a departure from Quinn's Bridgerverse. As a result, the novels have storylines that didn't make it to the screen, and vice versa, the show has additional characters, themes, and arcs. This makes watching and reading a fun experience. You basically have two stories about the same beloved characters.

As a unique bonus, if something in the series didn't sit right with you, you might discover that Quinn handled it better in the books.

Bigger Bridgerverse

There are more books set in the same universe. Just as Queen Charlotte expanded the Bridgerverse on screen, Julia Quinn has penned a prequel series that delves into the lives of the Bridgertons and their neighbors, the aristocratic Rokesby family, in the late 1700s.

There are also the Lady Whistledown series and the Smythe-Smith Quartet series. With this much reading, you won't have to say goodbye to your favorite realm for months.

Fun Read

Beyond the frenzy surrounding the series, the Bridgerton novels are delightful reads in their own right. Even readers who aren't typically fans of the romance genre find them to be lighthearted escapist stories, perfect for filling your evenings with charm, passion, and joy. After all, isn't that what we read books for?

Expert Level

Last but not least, knowledge of the Bridgerton novel series will make your fandom experience so much more exciting. You'll feel like an expert in many of the fan discussions that are sure to get even more heated as time goes on. Believe us, the hunt for Easter eggs and references is a thrilling quest.

Besides, can you truly call yourself a Bridgerton fan if you can't compare Quinn's Lady Whistledown to her Netflix version?

Bridgerton Season 3 Part 2 premieres on Netflix June 13 at midnight PT.