Book Summary – It’s In His Kiss – Bridgerton – Book 7

Book summary by chapter of It’s In His Kiss. Includes spoilers from the secret of parentage to the end of the book. Gareth was never the baron’s son, yet he didn’t know who truly looked back at him in the mirror. His grandmother’s diary pulls him into a mystery, into the hands of a woman who matches his wit, and toward a hidden lineage that frees him from scorn and leads to a love he never expected to survive.

Hyacinth and Gareth beside the bench in Lady Danbury’s garden among rosebushes – Chapter-by-chapter Summary of It's In His Kiss

Introduction – It’s In His Kiss

In the refined drawing rooms of London, where etiquette silences feelings and love hides behind a fan, a young lady like Hyacinth Bridgerton should blend in… yet she doesn’t. Her wit is as sharp as her heart is guarded. But when the enigmatic Gareth St. Clair enters her life with a family diary full of secrets and hidden jewels, the world of dances and social calls gives way to a mystery that could change everything.

This book summary by chapter of It’s In His Kiss, the seventh official installment in the Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn, takes us through a romance tangled in family secrets, stolen kisses, and late-night treasure hunts through silent mansions. Each chapter reveals not only clues to a lost inheritance, but pieces of a connection neither Hyacinth nor Gareth can keep denying.

Because sometimes, love isn’t found on the ballroom floor or at afternoon teas—but in the dusty corners of a library or behind a secret passage. To follow the full journey from the very beginning, don’t miss the main entry: Reading Order of Bridgerton ➤

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Reading Order ➤

Chapter Navigation

• Prologue Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Secret of Gareth St. Clair

• Chapter 1 Summary – It's In His Kiss – An Encounter at the Smythe-Smith Soirée

• Chapter 5 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Recital of the Shepherdess and the Unicorn

• Chapter 10 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Secrets in the Library

• Chapter 15 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Secret Hidden in the Books

• Chapter 20 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Night of Revelation and the Final Adventure

• Epilogue Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Best-Kept Secret of the Saint Clair Family

Prologue Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Secret of Gareth St. Clair

Gareth St. Clair has always kept his distance from his father, the baron, following four basic rules of avoidance. However, he receives a letter that forces him to return to Clair Hall. Upon arrival, his father deliberately ignores him before announcing his fate: an arranged marriage to Mary Winthrop, whose dowry would save the family from ruin. At just eighteen, Gareth is stunned. He has known Mary since childhood and knows he cannot marry her. His refusal unleashes the baron’s fury, who then delivers a devastating revelation—Gareth is not his legitimate son. His mother had an affair while he was away. Stripped of his inheritance and with no support, Gareth severs ties and leaves, knowing his life will change forever.

Chapter 1 Summary – It's In His Kiss – An Encounter at the Smythe-Smith Soirée

Hyacinth Bridgerton reluctantly attends the disastrous annual Smythe-Smith musicale alongside Penelope. Amid sarcastic remarks and resignation, they endure the painfully off-key performance from the front row. Lady Danbury joins them, as sharp as ever, and soon, her grandson, Gareth St. Clair, arrives. With his usual arrogance and charm, Gareth exchanges witty remarks with Hyacinth, who refuses to be intimidated. He watches her with amusement while she tries to ignore his presence and focus on the musical torture. However, his wit and audacity intrigue her. Amid veiled insults and playful challenges, Hyacinth finds herself caught in a verbal duel she cannot easily win. When the music finally reaches its inevitable and off-pitch conclusion, Gareth, with a teasing smile, makes it clear that he enjoys seeing her out of her element—something she is not willing to tolerate.

Chapter 2 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Secret in the St. Clair Family

Gareth only attends the soirée out of obligation to his grandmother, enduring the musical torture with rapidly thinning patience. Despite his reputation as a rake, his affection for Lady Danbury is undeniable. When the performance finally ends, he encounters Hyacinth again, who seems to delight in his discomfort. Though she constantly mocks him, he notices she is unlike other society ladies—sharper, more defiant, and, above all, harder to impress. That same night, he receives an unexpected visit from Caroline, his late brother George’s widow. She gives him an old diary belonging to his grandmother Isabella, written in Italian. Intrigued, Gareth seeks Lady Danbury’s help in finding a translator. However, in an unexpected turn, Hyacinth reveals that she can read Italian, placing her at the center of a mystery that could change everything.

Chapter 3 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Hyacinth and Isabella’s Diary

Hyacinth agrees to help Gareth translate his grandmother’s diary, unaware of how deeply she will become absorbed in its contents. As she reads the first pages, she discovers that Isabella was unhappy in her arranged marriage and harbored secrets that could alter the St. Clair family’s history. Gareth, skeptical but curious, is surprised by Hyacinth’s skill, though he never misses an opportunity to tease her. Meanwhile, Lady Danbury observes the growing tension between them with evident satisfaction. Later, Hyacinth returns home, only to be met by her mother, Violet, who insists on discussing marriage. Charlotte Stokehurst has just become engaged, and Violet seizes the opportunity to remind Hyacinth that she remains unmarried. Hyacinth resists being pushed into an inconvenient match, but she cannot ignore that her mother unexpectedly mentions Gareth as a suitable option.

Chapter 4 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Bet with Destiny

With the diary in her possession, Hyacinth becomes engrossed in Isabella St. Clair’s story, fascinated by the details she uncovers. Gareth, intrigued but wary, watches her enthusiasm with a mix of amusement and genuine interest. Their connection grows as they spend more time together, but neither is willing to admit it. Meanwhile, Lady Danbury insists that Hyacinth should consider her grandson as a potential husband—an idea Hyacinth immediately dismisses. However, a conversation with her mother makes her question her own fears. Violet reminds her that while she values her independence, deep down, she longs for a real connection. Confused but intrigued, Hyacinth wonders if Gareth, with his nonchalant attitude and ever-challenging gaze, might be the one man capable of matching her wit and capturing her attention like no one else ever has.

Chapter 5 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Recital of the Shepherdess and the Unicorn

Hyacinth and Gareth cross paths at a recital hosted by Lady Pleinsworth, where the evening takes an unexpected turn with a theatrical performance starring young girls dressed as a shepherdess, a unicorn, and Henry VIII. While Gareth mocks the absurd performance, Hyacinth cannot help but laugh at his remarks. Their chemistry is undeniable, though she insists she does not consider him a marriage candidate. Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton, however, seem to have other plans. Through subtle maneuvering and knowing glances, both women watch with satisfaction as Hyacinth and Gareth grow closer. When the recital finally ends, he suggests they share a glass of port, but before they can slip away, the young shepherdess’s mother approaches with clear matchmaking intentions. Enjoying a small revenge of her own, Hyacinth leaves Gareth in the hands of the eager hostess and watches from afar with amused satisfaction.

Chapter 6 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Ball at the Bridgerton House

During the Bridgerton ball, Felicity, Hyacinth’s best friend, suggests that Gareth St. Clair would be the perfect husband for her. Hyacinth resists the idea, but her friend’s insistence forces her to reflect on her relationship with him. Meanwhile, from across the ballroom, Gareth discreetly searches for her with his gaze, though he cannot explain why. When they finally cross paths, Hyacinth, in an unexpected move, asks him to dance. Amused by her boldness, Gareth accepts immediately. However, during the waltz, he discovers that Hyacinth is not a great dancer, a detail that both surprises and entertains him. Their conversation flows effortlessly, and she reveals new progress in translating Isabella’s diary. By the end of the dance, Hyacinth walks away with a new sense of uncertainty—for the first time, someone has managed to unsettle her and make her question what she truly wants.

Chapter 7 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Confrontation with Lord St. Clair

After dancing with Hyacinth, Gareth decides to leave the ball, but in the foyer, he comes face to face with his father, Lord St. Clair. The disdain between them is palpable, and their conversation quickly turns cruel. The baron reminds him that he will never be accepted by high society and that the Bridgertons would never consider him worthy of Hyacinth. Gareth’s anger and resentment intensify, but he restrains himself. However, when he encounters Hyacinth in the foyer, still reeling from his encounter with his father, an impulse overtakes him, and he kisses her passionately. She, caught off guard, initially responds, but then pulls away, her heart racing and her mind in turmoil. Unable to process what just happened, she flees without a word, leaving Gareth confused and, for the first time in a long while, vulnerable.

Chapter 8 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Secret in Isabella’s Diary

The next morning, Hyacinth cannot stop thinking about the kiss. Confusion and nervousness torment her, but she decides to distract herself by translating Isabella’s diary. Suddenly, she stumbles upon a shocking revelation—Isabella mentions having hidden a set of valuable jewels in the St. Clair house. Excited by the discovery, she sends a note to Gareth and waits anxiously for him. When he arrives, she shares her findings. Although Gareth, still affected by the previous night, tries to apologize for the kiss, Hyacinth interrupts him with her thrilling revelation. However, when she insists on accompanying him to search for the jewels, he resists. After a tense negotiation, she convinces him that he needs her to interpret Isabella’s instructions correctly. Finally, they agree to go together to the St. Clair house on a mission that could change everything.

Chapter 9 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Nocturnal Intrusion at St. Clair House

Gareth and Hyacinth venture into the night to break into the baron’s house in search of the hidden jewels. Hyacinth, dressed in trousers, impresses Gareth with her boldness. They use a window with a broken latch to sneak in and find a suspicious piece of furniture in the baroness’s study. While searching, Hyacinth discovers a secret compartment containing a note in Italian, but their reading is interrupted when someone enters the room. They hide in a wardrobe, where Gareth shields Hyacinth with his body. The intruder searches the space but, miraculously, does not find them. When they finally escape, Hyacinth is exhilarated, while Gareth, still in disbelief over her recklessness, admits that the experience was oddly thrilling. On the way back, she enjoys teasing him, and he cannot deny that he is becoming increasingly fascinated by her daring nature.

Chapter 10 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Secrets in the Library

The next day, Hyacinth is still excited about their nighttime adventure and analyzes the note they found. She suspects that the next clue is in the St. Clair family library, likely hidden in a science book. Her good mood is noticed by her family, especially her brother Gregory, who teases her by suggesting she has feelings for Gareth. During tea time, Gareth arrives and faces the chaotic dynamic of the Bridgerton family. Gregory, always eager to annoy his sister, jokes about her closeness with Gareth, while their mother watches with amusement. Desperate to talk to him about the note, Hyacinth seizes the opportunity to go for a walk with him. As they stroll, they discuss their strategy for their next search in the library, and Gareth is taken aback by Hyacinth’s energy and enthusiasm. Though he tries to maintain his distance, he cannot deny that she intrigues him more than he is willing to admit.

Chapter 11 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Meeting in Hyde Park

During their walk, Gareth and Hyacinth discuss the possible location of the jewels and the peculiar way Isabella left her clues. He admires her intelligence and determination, though her impatience amuses him. However, the mood shifts when Gareth sees his father approaching. In a tense confrontation, the baron makes ambiguous remarks about Gareth and Hyacinth’s relationship, insinuating that she should be cautious. Furious but restrained, Gareth quickly leads her away. Hyacinth senses his distress and asks about his hatred toward his father, but he refuses to answer. In a moment of vulnerability, Gareth mentions what it feels like to be alone in the world, leaving Hyacinth deeply moved. In that instant, she realizes something unexpected—Gareth is the man she wants to marry, and though he doesn’t know it yet, she is determined to make it happen.

Chapter 12 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Decision and a Proposal

The encounter with his father leaves Gareth unsettled, but Hyacinth invites him into her home. In a heartfelt conversation, she expresses gratitude for having grown up in a loving family and laments Gareth’s suffering. He is deeply moved by her compassion and, without thinking too much, kisses her tenderly. The passion between them grows, and Gareth, realizing how much he desires her, begins to seriously consider marriage. Determined, he heads to Anthony Bridgerton’s house to ask for Hyacinth’s hand. The viscount, surprisingly relieved, accepts immediately, pleased to see his youngest sister finally engaged. However, Gareth knows his father still poses a threat. To ensure that nothing interferes with the wedding, he decides to secure Hyacinth’s commitment irrevocably. As he plans his next move, he knows that this won’t be a sacrifice—it will be a pleasure.

Chapter 13 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Gareth’s Unexpected Proposal

Hyacinth reads aloud for Lady Danbury, but her mind is elsewhere. Her thoughts betray her as she recalls Gareth’s kiss, comparing it to the romantic descriptions in her novel. Lady Danbury, always perceptive, notices her distraction and corners her with questions. The young woman tries to deflect, but her blush gives her away. When Gareth suddenly appears in the sitting room, Hyacinth is taken aback. Amused, the countess decides not to leave them alone, but he is undeterred. With unwavering confidence, he kneels before Hyacinth and asks her to be his wife. Surprised and thrilled, Hyacinth accepts without hesitation. Lady Danbury, pleased, celebrates the engagement. However, when Hyacinth asks why he chose her, Gareth avoids the question. Doubt creeps into her heart—is love truly the reason for his proposal, or is there something else behind his decision?

Chapter 14 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Night of Seduction and Secrets

Two weeks later, Hyacinth and Gareth’s engagement is the talk of London. But Gareth has a hidden plan—he wants to secure their marriage by seducing Hyacinth. That night, she returns early from a ball and finds him waiting in her bedroom. Surprise quickly turns into fascination as he, with whispers and caresses, wraps her in a passion she has never known. Aware of the consequences, Hyacinth surrenders without hesitation. The night is filled with discovery and desire, marking a turning point between them. But their adventure is not over yet—they must infiltrate the St. Clair house to continue following Isabella’s diary clues. Adrenaline-filled, Hyacinth dresses in men’s clothing for the mission, while Gareth, exhausted, can barely keep up. Unbeknownst to them, what they uncover that night will not only test their courage but also their trust in each other.

Chapter 15 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Secret Hidden in the Books

In the St. Clair library, Hyacinth and Gareth search for the mysterious book where Isabella supposedly hid a clue about the lost jewels. She rummages through the shelves while Gareth, less enthusiastic, tries to help. Among forgotten novels and scientific treatises, they find the Galileo book mentioned in the clue. However, instead of jewels, they discover a new note written in an unfamiliar language. Frustrated, they decide to seek help from Colin Bridgerton, who might recognize the script. Before they can leave, Gareth is confronted by his father in the street. The baron, ever cruel, reveals an unexpected truth—Gareth is still engaged to Mary Winthrop due to an agreement signed years ago. Stunned, Gareth is left speechless. Meanwhile, Hyacinth, having overheard everything from the shadows, flees without waiting for an explanation. As soon as Gareth realizes her absence, a fear he cannot control grips him.

Chapter 16 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Escape, Confrontation, and a Painful Truth

Gareth roams the streets of London searching for Hyacinth. When he finally finds her, she runs into her house and locks herself in her room. But Gareth refuses to leave things unresolved—he climbs up to her window and enters, demanding an explanation. Furious and wounded, Hyacinth confronts him. Not because of Mary Winthrop, but because she has realized something devastating: Gareth chose her not out of love, but to prove something to his father. He denies it, but doubt settles between them. Hyacinth demands that he leave, feeling used. Gareth, aware that he has hurt the only woman who truly matters to him, walks away, leaving their conversation unfinished. As he jumps from the window, he hopes to see her one last time. But Hyacinth is already gone. Now, more than ever, he knows he must fight for her—not to win a battle against his father, but because he has finally discovered what he truly feels.

Chapter 17 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Hyacinth’s Confusion and Determination

Hyacinth grapples with the unsettling truth about Gareth while her mother, Violet, presses her with questions. She knows he used her to defy his father, and though she tries to convince herself that it shouldn’t matter, she cannot ignore the pain she feels. During tea time, her mother watches her closely and, with her usual wisdom, urges her to take control of the situation. Determined not to wait passively, Hyacinth decides she will not be a woman who sits idly by for a man’s apology. If Gareth won’t come to her, she will go to him. As she embroiders, she ruins the fabric with each frustrated stitch, reflecting her inner turmoil. Finally, she convinces herself that her love for him is stronger than her pride. With newfound resolve, she knows she must face him head-on—this time, with the truth of her feelings and the certainty that she deserves more.

Chapter 18 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Gareth and the Grand Gesture of Love

Frustrated by his distance from Hyacinth, Gareth realizes he needs a grand gesture to win her back. As he considers his limited options, his valet announces an unexpected visitor. Hyacinth has come to his house alone, defying all social norms. Shocked and exasperated, Gareth worries about her reputation, but she, as bold as ever, makes it clear she has no intention of breaking the engagement. Quickly changing the subject, she presents the latest clue about the jewels, suggesting they might be hidden in his grandmother’s bedroom. Still processing her audacity, Gareth cannot help but admire her. However, the conversation takes an unexpected turn when she demands an honest answer—why did he propose to her? Trapped, Gareth finally realizes that he loves her. In a rush of emotion, he confesses a secret he has never shared: the baron Saint Clair is not his real father. Hyacinth, far from being shocked, accepts him unconditionally, solidifying their bond.

Chapter 19 Summary – It's In His Kiss – Isabella’s Diary and Gareth’s Secret

During her visit to Lady Danbury, Hyacinth continues translating Isabella’s diary and uncovers a shocking revelation. The baron Saint Clair is not Gareth’s father. His true father was Edward, the baron’s younger brother. At first, Isabella was unaware of the truth, but after Gareth was born, she realized his resemblance to the Saint Clair family was undeniable. Trembling at the discovery, Hyacinth debates whether to tell Gareth immediately or wait. Lady Danbury, unaware of her future granddaughter-in-law’s internal turmoil, falls asleep as Hyacinth processes the revelation. Finally, she decides she cannot wait. The news is too important and could change Gareth’s perception of himself. With a racing heart, she hastily takes her leave and rushes to find him, certain that this truth will alter his fate forever.

Chapter 20 Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Night of Revelation and the Final Adventure

Hyacinth bursts into Gareth’s house in the middle of the night, eager to share her discovery. Furious at her recklessness, he scolds her for taking such a risk alone, but she silences him with a devastating truth—his real father was Edward Saint Clair. Gareth is stunned. Years of uncertainty and pain collapse in an instant. Hyacinth, fearing his reaction, takes his hand and assures him that his identity does not change who he is. Moved, Gareth realizes that the only thing that truly matters to him is her. Finally, he surrenders to his feelings and confesses what he had never dared say before—he loves her. The intensity of the moment binds them closer than ever. But Hyacinth, ever fearless, does not forget their mission. Seizing the moment, she convinces him that they must return to the Saint Clair house that very night. With a resigned sigh, Gareth relents. United by love and adventure, they set off in search of the jewels, unaware that the truth they are about to uncover will seal their fate forever.

Chapter 21 Summary – It's In His Kiss – A Discovery and an Unexpected Proposal

Hyacinth and Gareth break into the Saint Clair house in search of Isabella’s jewels, but after a meticulous search, they must accept that they are not there. Resigned, Gareth urges her to leave before the baron returns, but just as they are about to escape, they are caught by him. Lord Saint Clair confronts them, insinuating that he knows Gareth has hidden motives. Then, Gareth reveals that he possesses Isabella’s diary and has uncovered the truth—his real father was Edward Saint Clair. The baron, stunned, barely reacts before walking away. Relieved, Gareth realizes that he is finally free from his past. In a rush of happiness, he kneels in the middle of the street and proposes to Hyacinth, this time out of pure love. Moved, she accepts without hesitation. They seal their promise with a kiss under the glow of the streetlights, ready to begin their life together.

Epilogue Summary – It's In His Kiss – The Best-Kept Secret of the Saint Clair Family

After marrying, Hyacinth and Gareth build a happy life together with their children, George and Isabella. Though time passes, Hyacinth remains obsessed with finding Isabella Saint Clair’s jewels, convinced they are still hidden in the mansion. Gareth, ever patient, watches her tireless search with amusement. Years later, their daughter, Isabella, accidentally discovers a hidden compartment in the children’s bathroom. Inside, she finds a small velvet pouch containing a dazzling necklace and diamond bracelet. Fascinated, she admires her discovery until her mother calls for her from the hallway. In that instant, she makes an unexpected decision: instead of revealing the secret, she smiles and hides the jewels back in their original spot. Hyacinth’s search continues, unaware that the mystery has already been solved—by her own daughter.

Conclusion – It’s In His Kiss

And so, through hidden hallways, Italian diary entries, and a bond that defies high society’s rules, Hyacinth and Gareth discover that the greatest treasures don’t always sparkle—but they do change everything. It’s In His Kiss isn’t just the tale of two clashing personalities, but an emotional map of two hearts that, despite fear and pride, choose to find each other.

In this seventh volume of the Bridgerton saga, Julia Quinn delivers an intimate adventure where passion blends with the search for identity, and family secrets leave scars as lasting as love. Each jewel, each clue, each shared silence leads to an ending that’s not just romantic—but revelatory.

And while this chapter may be closing, what comes next isn’t an epilogue—it’s another chance to fall in love. Continue the journey here: Book Summary by Chapter of On the Way to the Wedding ➤

FAQs – Chapter by Chapter Summary – It’s In His Kiss

What is Gareth St. Clair’s true origin, and how does it affect his relationship with Hyacinth?

Gareth learns he is not the legitimate son of Baron St. Clair, but the result of an affair between his mother and Edward, the baron’s younger brother. This revelation frees him from years of familial contempt but also throws him into an identity crisis. It complicates his bond with Hyacinth, especially when he worries she might love him out of pity. Yet, her unconditional support and acceptance become the foundation for a deeper, more honest relationship.

How does Isabella’s diary drive the romance between Gareth and Hyacinth?

The diary, written in Italian by Gareth’s grandmother, Isabella, becomes the spark that brings Hyacinth and Gareth together. Her unique ability to translate it places her at the heart of a treasure hunt filled with clues and emotional revelations. The deeper they dive into the secrets, the more they’re drawn to each other—not just through mystery and intrigue, but through a growing trust that neither expected.

Where were Isabella’s jewels actually hidden, and who finds them in the end?

Despite all their efforts, neither Gareth nor Hyacinth finds the hidden jewels during the events of the novel. Years after their marriage, their daughter Isabella stumbles upon them by accident in a secret compartment in the children’s bathroom. In a mischievous twist, she chooses not to reveal the discovery, allowing her mother’s long obsession to continue while smiling at the secret only she now holds.

How does the conflict between Gareth and his father evolve throughout the story?

From the start, Gareth’s relationship with the baron is marked by resentment and manipulation. The baron attempts to control Gareth’s future through coercion and public humiliation. As Gareth uncovers the truth of his paternity, the baron’s power begins to fade. The final confrontation, in which Gareth asserts his identity and love for Hyacinth, symbolizes the end of the baron’s influence and the beginning of Gareth’s freedom.

Why does Hyacinth ultimately agree to marry Gareth despite her doubts?

Hyacinth questions Gareth’s motives after learning he may have proposed out of spite toward his father rather than love. However, she confronts him and demands honesty. Gareth’s eventual confession of love, paired with his vulnerability, dissolves her fears. She chooses to marry him not because society expects it, but because she recognizes a man who challenges her, understands her, and truly loves her.