Who does Francesca Bridgerton marry in the book? Bridgerton season 3 details, explored

The ton certainly has a lot to talk about this season with the introduction of Francesca in Bridgerton season 3. As a debutante, the sixth Bridgerton sibling finds herself as the belle of the ball in the latest season released on May 16, 2024.

While Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington's romance may be the focal point, Francesca's story gets a significant amount of screen time as well. The reserved and socially inept character has a difficult time connecting with suitors, seeking solace in music.

An introverted person with a penchant for pianoforte, Francesca leaves her fate at the hands of Queen Charlotte. As this season's "diamond," she is content with tying the knot with the Queen's choice of groom. However, destiny brings another man towards her path - someone more suited to her personality.

While Francesca still has to make up her mind by the end of Bridgerton season 3 Part 1, the When He Was Wicked book reveals that she gets married to John Sterling. However, that is not the end of her story as we know it.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Bridgerton novel, When He Was Wicked.

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Francesca Bridgerton marries John Sterling in the book, but there's more...

A still from Bridgerton Season 3 (Image via Netflix)

As seen in Bridgerton season 3 part 1, Francesca meets a man called John Sterling during a ball. He is the Earl of Kilmartin and is equally reserved and introverted as the Bridgerton beauty.

They find comfort in each other's silent company and Sterling even gifts her a sheet of music arrangement that wins her heart. Despite the Queen's effort to push Lord Samadani as Francesca's potential groom, it seems her heart is set elsewhere.

In the sixth Bridgerton novel by Julia Quinn titled When He Was Wicked, Francesca is revealed to be married to John Sterling. The readers are also introduced to Michael Sterling, John's cousin, one of the most infamous rakes in the city. However, only two years later, Sterling dies in his sleep, leaving Francesca a widow and passing the Earldom to Michael.

The two cross paths years later when they enter the marriage market looking for a spouse. As in all romance stories, they find themselves getting closer and developing feelings for each other. Eventually, the pair get married, with Michael Sterling being Francesca's second husband.

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What happens with Francesca in Bridgerton season 3 part 1?

A still from Bridgerton Season 3 (Image via Netflix)

Francesca Bridgerton stands apart from her other siblings as viewers have come to know in the Netflix show. Unlike her brothers and sisters, who either seek the spotlight or inadvertently attract it through public mishaps, Francesca prefers to stay in the background.

In season 3, she handles the pressure of the social season by wishing for it to end quickly, which is challenging given her family's high social status. She is willing to endure the tedious courtship season, looking for a practical match rather than a romantic love match. Shy and introverted, she is content with letting her elders lead the path for her.

After she inadvertently finds herself as the "sparkler" of the season, she is greeted with a list of new suitors, including the Queen's choice, Lord Samadani. While he seems to be the perfect match for her in the beginning, another gentleman catches her eye - Lord John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin.

A still from Bridgerton Season 3 (Image via Netflix)

His social skills are awkward and reserved, but this proves to be an advantage as it highlights his compatibility with Francesca. They find comfort in silence and Sterling seems to appreciate Francesca's love for music.

While Part 1 ended without confirming their relationship, it is likely that Part 2 will reveal the two as a pair who will eventually get married.

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Bridgerton season 3 part 1 is currently available to stream on Netflix.