My American Duchess

Eloisa James is one of my favorite authors because she always creates books that can run the gamut of emotions. This book is another prime example. Merry is an heiress from America who was engaged twice before coming to London. She is now engaged to Cedric but meets a stranger on a balcony. Trent meets a feisty American on the balcony and decides she is the one he will marry until he finds out she is engaged to his brother. While both are fighting their attraction some entertaining and embarrassing scenes occur to cause Merry to rethink her third engagement. When Cedric blackmails Merry into going through with marriage it is not Cedric but Trent at the altar. Their life begins but they must overcome their insecurities to discover their love to last a lifetime.

She’s altogether much too American to ever be an English rose. She’ll just have to teach these London elites that there’s more to this American heiress than the ability to garner a proposal or three.

So much to love about this book! First off, Merry is so very American and, first the most part, unapologetic about that fact. She does begin to think that she needs to better emulate the English ladies she encounters but, bless her heart, her blood runs true red, white and blue. I loved her enthusiasm and the fact that while she tried to behave, there were times that she simply had to be herself. The best of those times was actually after she’s married to Trent, or Jack, or Duke (they’re all the same person and the constant name switching was a little odd.)

Trent or Jack or whichever name he went by, was a swoony kind of hero. He was dark and broody without much reason to enjoy his station in life. And he has an evil (not identical) twin who isn’t so much evil as he is just the opposite of Trent. Or at least he tries to be the opposite. I got the impression that there’s a lot more to Cedric than what he puts out for the public though he keeps his good parts buried deep. I look forward to seeing more of him and finding out exactly what happened to the Cedric I met in London when he left for the Bahamas.

Back to Trent and Merry, they were refreshing. Their wedding day may not have been the blissful event Merry would have imagined when she finally said “I do” but the moment after he raises her veil and kisses her, that was the moment I could envision their happily ever after. Interestingly enough, it happens well before the end of the book and unlike a much used “had to get married because they were compromised” trope, their’s was for even more nontraditional reasons. No, she wasn’t pregnant.

Because there was so much story left from the day of the wedding to end of the book, I knew that there would have to be some additional conflict. Actually, there are a couple of issues they have to work through but the main one stems from his childhood and her reputation of falling in/out of love. It was all very understandable and realistic. He had just reasons for wanting to avoid using the “L” word even though it was so obvious to this reader in every move he made where Merry was concerned. As often happens, it took something drastic for him to see what this reader was already very aware of.

On a slightly off note, I have to think Ms. James is possibly a Potterhead. She was in London when this book was written and there are names and places used in this book that had me wondering if she wasn’t making subtle nods to the world of Harry Potter. Maybe not but, there’s a Mrs. Honeydukes, Merry’s dog’s name is George and Trent’s home place is called Hawksmede (similar to Hogsmead). I could totally be reading something into nothing but coincidence but as a confirmed Potterhead, it still made me smile.

Readers who follow Ms. James writing will find this to be another winner and one that I could cheerfully read a second time to truly enjoy the cleverness in her writing. The way it ends led me to believe that there may be a sequel involving Cedric. Easy recommend from this always entertaining story teller.

originally posted at long and short reviews

The Duke of Trent is enthralled the first time he meets American heiress Merry Pelford on a dark terrace at a society gathering. He’s unaware she’s betrothed to his twin brother Cedric. Trent decides on the spot the outspoken, intelligent young woman will make a perfect duchess. He’s also doesn’t know this is Merry’s third engagement. She’s promised herself this time she’ll make it to the altar and beyond. Trent is inclined to kiss the young miss but refrains to the ultimate benefit of all involved. Their status is revealed upon their return to the ballroom, much to Trent’s chagrin and Merry’s dismay. Cedric enforces his claim to her once he realizes his brother’s interest in his fiancé.

This is only the beginning of a wonderful story where one family’s love and another’s discord affect the lives of its members. The twins could not be farther apart, suffering from favoritism as they grew. Merry was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle after her parents perished. Insightful looks at the ways of the ton are good for a laugh.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a joyous love story that’s not without its ups and downs on the way to a happy ending. Ms. James has a knack for writing romance that will thrill to the core.

Eloisa James is an auto buy for me. One of my favorite historical romance writers. While I have loved all of her other books, My American Duchess tops them all. I believe this is the best book Eloisa has written, hands down. There are so many facets to this book, all of which I loved. A spunky heroine coming into her own personality. A tortured hero in need of love. And a journey to happily ever after that is full of twists, turns and quite a few humorous moments. Treat yourself to one of the best books you will ever read. You will not be disappointed.

The book starts out so deliciously, with a charming American heroine and her sensible snd likeable aunt, and then, about halfway through....WHAM!! What the heck just happened??? The whole thing takes a huge leap and skids out of control. From there on, there is no plot left between Merry and her beloved. It's a car wreck, leaving tire marks along the walls. James tries to salvage things with several very extended (and immensely tedious) sex scenes which also seem quite incongruent, but it doesn't work. I just jumped through to the end and closed the book.

But what it DOES have -- and it causes pretty serious upstaging problems -- is a tremendously well-done villain. He is really and truly unpleasant -- at times loathesome -- and he wipes up the floor with the other characters, who seem very pale indeed beside him. It appears that this guy just sort of took over as James wrote --in the wsy that bad boys often do --, until the whole thing became utterly unmanageable, like a really bad knot that simply cannot be untangled, and can only be lopped off.

Weird, yes, but I do recommend it all the same. I really enjoyed the first half, even though James can't figure out how to plot it. The dialogue was great fun and the characters had real life to them, and (for a while, at least) James is free of the churning and meaningless blather these sort of books tend to sport. When it's good, it is very good indeed.

My American Duchess explores the age old question of what is love. A question that has perplexed those who believe in it and don’t alike. Too frequently confused with infatuation, a response to trinkets bestowed on a courted one (poems, flowers or jewelry), or a reaction to passion; could it be possible that some individuals are more prone to this emotion, while others are incapable of it? Amidst this the philosophical existential backdrop, My American Duchess is also a comical journey through some of the more glaring differences between English and American society at around the turn of the nineteenth century. Both of these explorations, make for one incredible irresistible read, and when combined with Eloisa James’ talented prose and intuitive understanding of romantic love, make My American Duchess a must read for the historical romance enthusiast.

My American Duchess is set in London in 1803. After a string of engagements that all ended in a rather unfortunate set of events, Merry Pelford, an American heiress, has found herself in a dire situation. Having gained a reputation as being fickle in her affections, due to multiple engagements that never made it to the altar, her guardians have determined that her fate will fare better in England (where they believe the gossip hasn’t spread). And in fact, it doesn’t take very long after her arrival, for Merry to find another man that she is sure she is in love with. Within a few short weeks she finds herself engaged yet again.

In fact, it is at the party at which her new engagement is announced that she stumbles upon another man that completely enthralls her. Perhaps even more distressing is the fact that he seems equally enthralled by her. There is something so different about his nature that begins a new battle within her. A war between what her heart desires and what her mind judiciously tells her she surely must need. Moreover, above all else, Merry is determined not to waste this one-time chance to segue into British society. After all, isn’t it bad enough, that her boisterous personality is so at odds with the refined and reserved British culture? It’s almost impossible to think that a respectable Englishman would take on the project that curbing her “American” ways into a refined and proper Englishwoman will no doubt be. Therefore, she is greatly afraid that if sh gives in to her capricious love whims, she will no doubt lose this last chance at marriage.

The Duke of Trent can hardy believe his luck. A reserved and conservative man by nature, who learned as a young boy how painful unrequited love can be, his plan is to find a well-bred Englishwoman who will be able to fulfill her wifely ducal responsibilities with absolute aplomb. Emotions, fanfare, and speaking without a culturally acceptable filter, never were on his agenda. Yet, strangely, in many ways it is these same traits that seem to kindle his inevitable fascination with the deliciously, tempting Merry Pelford. And as her affections are rumored to be fickle, surely she will fall out of love as easily as seems to fall in love thereby ensuring that she will hardly notice that he is incapable of love. But once decided, it remains to be seen whether he can even win her over. And that’s before even factoring in an unexpected conflict of monumental proportions that will render even his attempt to persuade Merry to jilt her present fiance, scandal prone material. Can there possibly be a future, much less a HEA, under this peculiar set of circumstances?

My American Duchess was an absolute treat! Ms. James’ facility with words, and use of interesting historical facts to add depth to her story–be on the lookout for a “rented pineapple”–further make this read a true treasure. I can’t wait to read more of Ms. James’ romances in the future!

Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

Octavius Mortimer John Allardyce, the sixth Duke of Trent has found the woman that he wishes to marry, only to find that his younger (twin) brother, Cedric, proposed to the same woman earlier that evening.

American heiress, Merry Pelford, left behind jilted two finances in America and is hoping that the third engagement is a charm when she accepts Lord Cedric Allardyce's proposal.

Trent always assumed that he would marry a proper English lady, but now that he's met Merry, he's determined to do whatever it takes to win her hand away from his brother, who wishes to marry her for less than honorable reasons.

***

I love Eloisa James's books! Her characters are so much fun to read and I can picture them as they dance across London's ballrooms. I love the bits of humor she sprinkles into the stories as her characters find their way to love.

My American Duchess was one of those books that I found impossible to put down. I loved reading about Merry and Trent as they discovered their passion and love for each other, overcoming the obstacles before them. Merry was trying hard to become a lady and Trent needed to let go of his desire for a proper wife, thankfully he realize that he loved Merry as she was before she changed.

Merry was concerned that she possessed a fickle heart when she found herself falling in love with Trent, while engaged to his brother, though learning that Cedric wasn't the man he had portrayed himself to be made her choice much easier. I was a bit put-off with her indecisiveness, though it was fitting for her character.

I hope that Ms. James writes Cedric's story, because the epilogue leads us to believe that he found redemption...

***I was given a copy by the publisher for my honest feedback***

Must I remind that this is a fictional historical romance. I expect a bit of fluff, whimsical, fantasy.

With this all said, the growth of Merry is something to see for yourself. She grows from a child want her own toy to a woman with a mind of her own and knowing exactly what it is that she wants. Even faced with the repeated rejection of Trent. She persevered to maintain her love because this was true to her.

This man. This hero. He is suppose to be the Duke of Trent. Where is the command. The backbone. The common ducal sense. I found him lacking at points. Horny in others. And over sexed in others. But that did not take the fun that I was having. Merry is the story. No matter how minor the plot actual took part here. I found her to steal the show all the way.

LOVED! LOVED! LOVED! What a gem of a book. I did not want it to end, but at the same time I NEEDED to see how it would end. Boy was I ever surprised. The whole thing was one angsty ride – complete with a bit of a love triangle and some suspense. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to join in the fisticuffs. Completely adored Merry and the Duke of Trent. Merry being an American in England made it all the more enjoyable --seeing the culture/custom clashes and how she made her way. Loved the poetry references as well. This book had it all. Did I mention the adorable dogs?? *squeee* Can I get a do-over?!

p.s. I think I will giggle anytime I see a pineapple from now on!

I just could not finish this book (I skimmed the last 100 pages). As others have said, it feels like two different books. The first 3/4ths (roughly the first 300 pages) is the first book, which I did read. I frequently felt like putting it down but kept picking it up trying to finish it. For the record, I love Eloisa James and most of her books. So, it was surprising to me this one was so off the mark for me.

As the title suggests and does the back, Merry is engaged to Cedric though she is attracted to his twin brother Trent/Jack (the Duke). Obviously, given the title, you realize she's going to end up with the latter.

My problem is, while Merry is naive, she hasn't learned from her two past failed engagements. She claims she loves Cedric but actually knows little to nothing about him yet agrees to marry him with little to no thought even though a third broken engagement would be fairly bad for her. After all, she's developed a bit of a reputation of jilting men back in Boston and has come all the way to London to escape that. Her behavior flaws that don't line up with English culture are brushed away as "she's American" despite growing up with an English governess. To me, she's just ignorant, rude sometimes and a know-it-all.

The character development of the Hero is little to none other than learning he has Mommy issues. There is little to no development between the hero and heroine or between the brothers for that matter. Cedric, the younger twin she's engaged to, is fairly 1 dimensional as well. There's no clear reason why the hero MUST marry Merry after meeting her once other than she's the antithesis of English women. NEVERMIND that it's known he dislikes Americans and doesn't believe in love (which is a major turn off to me). Near the end of the first 300 pages, a silly gimmick is used. To me, the gimmick wasn't necessary and it cheapens the story and makes it super unbelievable.

To me, the book should have ended there but there were 100 pages left (and I do actually love it when a book goes beyond the wedding when it has a purpose). I skimmed those and another gimmick is used to extend a book that should have already ended. The last 100 pages is weirdly drawn out. It's almost as if she had a page min. to write and got to 300 and was like, well shoot. Gotta keep writing! I also feel like it was drawn out to make up for the fact that the first 300 pages were wasted in terms of relationship development and it was used to make up for something that was done and gone.

I give this 2 stars, simply because the premise was great as was the initial meeting between the hero and heroine. I just wish it had been better developed. After that first initial meeting, the book loses steam and really stagnates.

This is the story of the Duke of Trent and Merry Pelford.
The Duke is arrogant and plans to marry a well-bred, well brought up Englishwoman.
Merry Pelford is an American heiress who is adventuresome and certainly not English.
The last woman Trent would marry is Merry. She has already left two finances after thinking she was "in love' with them.
After meeting Merry in a provocative situation, Trent is determined to have her as his wife even though she is nothing like he thought he would marry. He desires her more than any other woman he has ever been around. He vows to marry her no matter what. Too bad she is already betrothed to his brother.
Merry has an instant attraction and connection to Trent. She cannot believe he is the brother of her betrothed. She cannot possibly have feelings for him on her third way to the alter. She must stay true to her intentions or be ruined in society.
Trent doesn't know what to do with the irresistible passion he feels for his future sister-in-law. He is an honorable man, and the stakes are just too high to risk it.
I love Eloisa Jame's writing style. I love how these two figure out what they are destined to do. "All is fair in love and war" after all.

I admit I read this in one sitting, because I wanted to see how James was going to get to the resolution. Her writing is usually good with few errors, but this book is an exception. We have historical inaccuracies, we have grammatical errors (such as here, here when it should be hear, hear - a common error, but James should be held to a higher standard), and we have a book that holds together in the first half only to dissolve in an unfocused second half (or, rather, it is focused on the intense sexual attraction between the hero and heroine, which is fine, but the book suffers and should have been ended a hundred or so pages earlier). Moreover there are several instances where reference is made to comparisons that are either anachronistic or are outside the character's experience realm and a contrived plot device that could have used improvement. I imagine no one bothers to edit James these days and she's good, but this book needed work.

4.5 stars, Rounded
Merry is an American heiress on her third engagement, yes, third, and is determined that this one will lead to the altar. Back in the states she is known as Mary Mary Quite Contrary for her peculiar decisions that lead her to accept then reject proposals. She started out a bit indecisive and dithery, but for me this worked nicely to serve the plot: she could follow her current path and remain a slightly unfulfilled and immature society wife, shallow as a puddle and providing tame company. But then she meets Trent.

Trent is the eldest of twin brothers, managing the estate and their lives as best he can. Frustrated with his brother Cedric and his profligacy, when he meets Merry he just knows that she intrigues him, and he wants more. But, Merry is not available: she is engaged to his brother, and here the fun begins. Trent was a bit skeptical and jaded, believing that love is fickle and for fools. Until he finds one that he can’t let go of.

The first half of the story is mostly light and fun, a flirtation if you will between characters and readers as we see the chemistry and enjoyment that Merry and Trent have, and the lack of same with her fiancé. As often happens in romance, Cedric is not what he seems and the engagement is off, leaving Merry free to follow her heart, if only Trent will get past his own stubborn belief that love doesn’t exist.

The second half of the story (roughly) shows us the married life of Merry and Trent, his gradual softening and obvious regard for Merry and her stepping up to take control of her new title and the termagants that are the London Ton. While we knew Merry was smart and kind, we also start to see her grasp onto her full potential and become a grownup with her own particular way of doing things, and her true love for Trent. It’s nice to have time to see the development of a couple AS a couple, married and dealing with all of those new issues, ideas, expectations and time learning one another.

With her usual style and flair, James manages to bring two unique characters together in a match that, while rather implausible, is wholly enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining. Open the first page and prepare to be transported to a place and time both long ago and oh so present.

I received a paperback copy of the title from the publisher via Avon Addicts for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I love Eloisa James! She is a master. Even when I don't like the story I have to like the book because it is well written and beautiful. This book I loved! I love the concept of Americans dealing with the stuffy British Ton, especially just twenty-five our so years after the War of Independence. I can see how this book screamed at Eloisa James to be more than just a novella. The full length novel is a wonderful and emotional story.

Merry is quick to love, and Trent is determined to marry Merry. But therein lies the problem, Merry has jilted two fiancees already and unless she wants to be an old maid she must marry soon, she has vowed her next engagement will be her last. But the more time she spends with her fiance the less she likes him and the more she falls in love with Trent. They meet quite accidentally not knowing who they were never properly introducing themselves, but one unconventional conversation and that's all it took. Trent was convinced he would marry her, even after he found out she was already engaged and tried to tell himself any American would do, his mind and libido kept going back to Merry. Even Merry was trying to take her mind off of Trent, spending more time with her fiance and making herself love him, but then there was George. Of course the adorable bull dog puppy was only the beginning it got so bad that Merry finally coincided she could not marry the man. She would go home and plan her gardens and die an old maid. But Trent had other ideas.

It really was an adorable book. Trent and Merry were very well written. And as always with Eloisa James books I laughed, I cried and I felt completely satisfied at the end of the book

It's so odd that I have spent the day absorbed in this story, and I am finding that I don't have much to say about it other than... I loved it. Eloisa James is a master at her craft, and I really need to work my way through the rest of her published works. I haven't read one that I didn't like so far. Hopefully I can work my way through the Desperate Duchesses and Essex Sisters this year.

I will start with the heroine, Merry Pelford who is known in America as Mary Mary Quite Contrary for her seemingly fickle nature with betrothals. After her second failed engagement, Merry's aunt and uncle spirit her off to London for a season in the hopes of finding a husband that might stick. But all those snotty nobs in London look on America with disdain. The members of the bon ton are constantly putting down her country, and/or delivering veiled insults to and about Merry and her family. I really liked this heroine. Merry didn't put on airs and treated everyone cordially and with respect no matter their station in society. She was plain-speaking and intelligent. I loved her random factoids about any and everything.

The hero, Octavius Mortimer John Allardyce, Sixth Duke of Trent, was a closed-off fellow. He doesn't believe in romantic love as he sees it as fickle and fleeting. After the death of his parents in a drunk phaeton driving accident, he despairs over the habitual imbibing of his twin brother, Cedric. In the first encounter between Trent and Merry, there is an instant spark between them. They converse and flirt with ease, and Trent likes Merry for all of the ways she is unlike other English ladies. I liked Trent well enough... but the story was all about Merry for me so I was more focused on her.

One of the things I liked best about this book is how the romance was laid out. Don't get me wrong, I like stories where the whole book is about the build-up and the couple gets their HEA and it's The End. However, I always wonder what happens to those couples once their lives have joined together. In My American Duchess, you get the best of both worlds. You have the build up of the relationship for the first half of the book, but then you have married life in the last half. I loved that. I liked seeing Merry and Trent draw closer together in their relationship and work through marital issues. It was also great to see Merry as a duchess and how she won over the duchy tenants with her un-duchess-like behavior. I had a great emotional connection to her character, and may have even shed a few tears on Merry's behalf when she thought her husband may not be capable of love.

My American Duchess starts out as a forbidden attraction, moves on to a bittersweet romance, and ends as a heartwarming love story. I received an advanced copy of this book from Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. 4.5 stars / 3 flames.

Excerpted from my blog review.

In her afterword, Eloisa James discloses how she played with history to create this story, moving the period when wealthy heiresses went to the UK to buy titles with their dowries. I was confused at first, but Eloisa gets a lot of leeway because she crafts such wildly romantic, heart and flowers hotness that makes me want to jump into the pages. Plus, I knew that she does meticulous research, so I assumed there was a reason.

I really enjoyed the gardening aspects of the story.

Of a newly birthed country, which broke free of the very country in which she is spouse shopping, Merry is seen as too outspoken and too rough for the Ton. I loved that the woman is an American — silly me, it helps me feel like part of the story!

While we might look at some to what are considered gaffes in Merry’s behavior and think they’re silly, Eloisa takes the time to explain how and why some of the Ton’s protocols make sense and protect people like hostesses. But, she also shows up the rules that were just silly.

Eloisa’s books almost always include a terrible argument, a split — even if it is just emotional. This story has that, but marriage was a lot harder to get out of then than it is now. And, Merry, having already cancelled two engagements is all too aware that a screwed up marriage will not help her reputation.

So, Eloise admits she took artistic license with history, but the wild romance and gardening make up for it. I always enjoy a romance from Eloisa.

I enjoyed myself when reading this book at the beginning, but the solution to their problem was handled a little too easy and rushed for some reason.

The book was going at a good pace, we all understood the roles that everyone was suppose to be playing and then BAM, the story has a ginormous twist and chaos ensured. Merry is a smart and delightful girl who has a problem of choosing fiance's a little too quickly before she got to know them a little better.

I believe that was how she got herself engaged the third time. Her aunt was pressuring her into getting married to stop all the gossip about her breaking two engagements. With that pressure constantly on her, she hastily accepted the marriage proposal even though she was having second thoughts about it.

Trent, on the other hand, is living in a bucket of guilt for being born first. A fact his brother never lets him forget. Trent has an unhealthy idea about love, which was perfectly explained in the book and made me feel sorry for him.

This book was well written except for certain parts that seem as if +Eloisa James changed her mind about Trent's brother. He went through such a drastic change in a very short about of time and did something that was completely out of character. That was the only part of the book I was not satisfied with. Other than that, I had a blast reading the book, especially the part about the tumble down the stairs. That's a little teaser for you guys, lol
Thoughts: Very entertaining story but was too easily resolved.
Grade: B+
Review by: Nathifa
[...]

Where should I start. I’ve always been a fan of Eloise James and her books so this jump into a new series has got me jumping for joy. It hasn’t been that long since her latest release in the Duchesses series, but to be working on this new series along side an already loved series is just mind boggling. But also refreshing.

This is the first in the series and definitely a change from what I’ve been getting from Eloise. Her heroine is an American, a Bostonian in fact, and has traveled to England for a husband. Having already ditched two fiancees back home and carrying a reputation for it, her aunt thought to bring her to experience the other side of life across the ocean, of which was the home of her departed mother. But of course being and American means she’s not “ton” enough yet not “bad ton” either to be snubbed by aristocrats. She’s an heiress so that comes with something for the English, but then she’s too brash and too independent with a mind of her own and talks without restraint. However, she is trying to learn the way of the English if she is to find a husband.

Trent, was so not who I thought he was from the blurb on the back cover of this book. That blurb is highly misleading, in my opinion, and wasn’t the Trent I came to know and love in the story. Maybe I just read the back cover of him as any other rakish brooding arrogant Duke but, wow! I was so wrong. He wasn’t anything like what I thought he would be and had so much more to his character and life than I could have imagined. He’s softhearted and simple with lots of love to share, not just in the sheets but to humanity, and not the lavish living money spending noble that his title implies.

Of course when these two meet she’s engaged to another man and it had to be someone close to Trent. This is where all the stress, anxiety, and frustration comes from. You know this will definitely be complicated if it’s someone close to Trent and all the rules of how not to get involved with ladies belonging to another man, let alone someone close to you. You just don’t cross it. But you know how it goes, there’s a HEA~

I absolutely love it when Trent and Merry are together. They have the most fascinating conversations and heart racing scenes, even when it’s just simple interaction. These are the scenes where we see them open up about their thoughts and opinions on every day things without the other judging them but listening and sharing their own opinions and bring more questions to their talk or moving it into another topic or something else.

Anyways, I felt like this is one of her better books that I’ve read in a long time. Like I just liked this book way better than many of her other great books. I mean come on, I love the Duchesses series and absolutely couldn’t wait for the second generation books in this series but this folks, I loved this like, way more than I thought.

Like I absolutely found myself relating to or identifying with the heroine. Sure I’ve never been in her shoes but She’s an American, she speaks her mind (when she can of course), she’s not all delicate and swooning like the other ladies, shes hilarious, and she’s real to her self. Of course we see this in a lot of our heroines but I just connected with this one more. Maybe it’s the way she rationalize things and speaks, or that she believes people should be seen and judged for their accomplishments rather than class and titles. Maybe it’s because of her relationship with Trent and their open conversations too. I just really like Merry.

So I am definitely excited to see what’s next for this series and absolutely recommend this book. Absolutely.

I love stories about Rich Powerful and handsome Dukes. My American Duchess really was a great story with a lively cast of characters. This is one of those stories you can feel like you want to be there.

Merry Pelford and American Heiress has broken her marriage engagements twice. Her Aunt Bess and her Uncle Thaddeus brings her to London to find a husband. Poor Merry excepts a marriage proposal from Cedric Allardyee the brother of the Duke of Trent. Not ten minutes later the Duke of Trent happens upon Merry on the Balcony at the Portmeadow's Ball. The two not knowing who the other is get involved in funny and lively conversation. This lead Trent to decide he wants this American for himself and he will propose marriage as soon as he can find out her identity .

Timing was not on there side Merry realizes immediately that she should have waited to except Cedric's proposal of marriage. After meeting the stranger on the balcony she begins to think something is wrong with her. She and Trent realize they are to be brother and sister by marriage. Cedric is a drunk and a gambler and he really doesn't want to marry Merry. He loathes that she is American and is not good Ton!! But her money is another thing. Cedric need its!!

As events twist and turn Trent wins the day and gets his American Duchess, but will he admit he loves her or deny the emotions of love. This is a Hot Sexy Sensual Marriage between Merry and Trent. I really love stories that are relationship builders and not just angst. Merry and Trent grow in love with each other. They both are well written characters. The story has a great supporting cast of characters. I especially liked Aunt Bess and Uncle Thaddeus who has raised Merry as if she were there own child after the death of her parents.

I Highly Recommend My American Duchess!!

Merry, the plucky American heroine in My American Duchess, has broken two engagements at home in Boston, and comes to England to hopefully meet her future husband. Just as she gets engaged for the third time, she meets a strange man on a balcony at a ball and feels an instant connection with him. The Duke of Trent is fascinated by this outspoken, charismatic woman and decides instantly to marry her. Unfortunately for him, she is already engaged… to his twin brother. As she has two broken engagements behind her, she is determined to stick to this third engagement, and the Duke will not steal her away from his brother, who is a complete ass. So, the will they or won’t they dance of courtship begins.

Merry, is a very easy character to like, after all, she is very much like a modern American woman. She is forthright, truthful, and is not impressed by rank or royalty. These things make her somewhat of an embarrassment in English society of that day, but are also what makes her stand out, and keeps the Duke interested, and keeps my interest as well. Her fiancé, Cedric, is somewhat of a pig, and I think the book spends a little too much time with him, instead of focusing on the romance between the Duke and Merry. He was the largest obstacle they had to overcome to be together, so I get why he needed to be so a large part of the book, and also so unlikeable. However, I get the feeling Eloisa James’ next book may be his story, and I certainly hope he has grown up a little bit!

The Duke, as a lot of these historical men are, is too handsome for his own good, doesn’t dress in silks and satins, but in normal black pants, white shirts and boots. He does not believe in love either, which is the second obstacle he and Merry face as they tiptoe around each other and their feelings. However, don’t you historical romance fans worry, the book has a very nice HEA, and does not disappoint!

This book was a fun weekend read, well written, with a fun plucky heroine. If you like to fantasize about becoming an English princess, or in this case, an American Duchess, then this book will hit all of the right notes for you.

4.5 stars, Rounded
Merry is an American heiress on her third engagement, yes, third, and is determined that this one will lead to the altar. Back in the states she is known as Mary Mary Quite Contrary for her peculiar decisions that lead her to accept then reject proposals. She started out a bit indecisive and dithery, but for me this worked nicely to serve the plot: she could follow her current path and remain a slightly unfulfilled and immature society wife, shallow as a puddle and providing tame company. But then she meets Trent.

Trent is the eldest of twin brothers, managing the estate and their lives as best he can. Frustrated with his brother Cedric and his profligacy, when he meets Merry he just knows that she intrigues him, and he wants more. But, Merry is not available: she is engaged to his brother, and here the fun begins. Trent was a bit skeptical and jaded, believing that love is fickle and for fools. Until he finds one that he can’t let go of.

The first half of the story is mostly light and fun, a flirtation if you will between characters and readers as we see the chemistry and enjoyment that Merry and Trent have, and the lack of same with her fiancé. As often happens in romance, Cedric is not what he seems and the engagement is off, leaving Merry free to follow her heart, if only Trent will get past his own stubborn belief that love doesn’t exist.

The second half of the story (roughly) shows us the married life of Merry and Trent, his gradual softening and obvious regard for Merry and her stepping up to take control of her new title and the termagants that are the London Ton. While we knew Merry was smart and kind, we also start to see her grasp onto her full potential and become a grownup with her own particular way of doing things, and her true love for Trent. It’s nice to have time to see the development of a couple AS a couple, married and dealing with all of those new issues, ideas, expectations and time learning one another.

With her usual style and flair, James manages to bring two unique characters together in a match that, while rather implausible, is wholly enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining. Open the first page and prepare to be transported to a place and time both long ago and oh so present.

I received a paperback copy of the title from the publisher via Avon Addicts for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I love Eloisa James! She is a master. Even when I don't like the story I have to like the book because it is well written and beautiful. This book I loved! I love the concept of Americans dealing with the stuffy British Ton, especially just twenty-five our so years after the War of Independence. I can see how this book screamed at Eloisa James to be more than just a novella. The full length novel is a wonderful and emotional story.

Merry is quick to love, and Trent is determined to marry Merry. But therein lies the problem, Merry has jilted two fiancees already and unless she wants to be an old maid she must marry soon, she has vowed her next engagement will be her last. But the more time she spends with her fiance the less she likes him and the more she falls in love with Trent. They meet quite accidentally not knowing who they were never properly introducing themselves, but one unconventional conversation and that's all it took. Trent was convinced he would marry her, even after he found out she was already engaged and tried to tell himself any American would do, his mind and libido kept going back to Merry. Even Merry was trying to take her mind off of Trent, spending more time with her fiance and making herself love him, but then there was George. Of course the adorable bull dog puppy was only the beginning it got so bad that Merry finally coincided she could not marry the man. She would go home and plan her gardens and die an old maid. But Trent had other ideas.

It really was an adorable book. Trent and Merry were very well written. And as always with Eloisa James books I laughed, I cried and I felt completely satisfied at the end of the book

It's so odd that I have spent the day absorbed in this story, and I am finding that I don't have much to say about it other than... I loved it. Eloisa James is a master at her craft, and I really need to work my way through the rest of her published works. I haven't read one that I didn't like so far. Hopefully I can work my way through the Desperate Duchesses and Essex Sisters this year.

I will start with the heroine, Merry Pelford who is known in America as Mary Mary Quite Contrary for her seemingly fickle nature with betrothals. After her second failed engagement, Merry's aunt and uncle spirit her off to London for a season in the hopes of finding a husband that might stick. But all those snotty nobs in London look on America with disdain. The members of the bon ton are constantly putting down her country, and/or delivering veiled insults to and about Merry and her family. I really liked this heroine. Merry didn't put on airs and treated everyone cordially and with respect no matter their station in society. She was plain-speaking and intelligent. I loved her random factoids about any and everything.

The hero, Octavius Mortimer John Allardyce, Sixth Duke of Trent, was a closed-off fellow. He doesn't believe in romantic love as he sees it as fickle and fleeting. After the death of his parents in a drunk phaeton driving accident, he despairs over the habitual imbibing of his twin brother, Cedric. In the first encounter between Trent and Merry, there is an instant spark between them. They converse and flirt with ease, and Trent likes Merry for all of the ways she is unlike other English ladies. I liked Trent well enough... but the story was all about Merry for me so I was more focused on her.

One of the things I liked best about this book is how the romance was laid out. Don't get me wrong, I like stories where the whole book is about the build-up and the couple gets their HEA and it's The End. However, I always wonder what happens to those couples once their lives have joined together. In My American Duchess, you get the best of both worlds. You have the build up of the relationship for the first half of the book, but then you have married life in the last half. I loved that. I liked seeing Merry and Trent draw closer together in their relationship and work through marital issues. It was also great to see Merry as a duchess and how she won over the duchy tenants with her un-duchess-like behavior. I had a great emotional connection to her character, and may have even shed a few tears on Merry's behalf when she thought her husband may not be capable of love.

My American Duchess starts out as a forbidden attraction, moves on to a bittersweet romance, and ends as a heartwarming love story. I received an advanced copy of this book from Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. 4.5 stars / 3 flames.

Excerpted from my blog review.

In her afterword, Eloisa James discloses how she played with history to create this story, moving the period when wealthy heiresses went to the UK to buy titles with their dowries. I was confused at first, but Eloisa gets a lot of leeway because she crafts such wildly romantic, heart and flowers hotness that makes me want to jump into the pages. Plus, I knew that she does meticulous research, so I assumed there was a reason.

I really enjoyed the gardening aspects of the story.

Of a newly birthed country, which broke free of the very country in which she is spouse shopping, Merry is seen as too outspoken and too rough for the Ton. I loved that the woman is an American — silly me, it helps me feel like part of the story!

While we might look at some to what are considered gaffes in Merry’s behavior and think they’re silly, Eloisa takes the time to explain how and why some of the Ton’s protocols make sense and protect people like hostesses. But, she also shows up the rules that were just silly.

Eloisa’s books almost always include a terrible argument, a split — even if it is just emotional. This story has that, but marriage was a lot harder to get out of then than it is now. And, Merry, having already cancelled two engagements is all too aware that a screwed up marriage will not help her reputation.

So, Eloise admits she took artistic license with history, but the wild romance and gardening make up for it. I always enjoy a romance from Eloisa.

I enjoyed myself when reading this book at the beginning, but the solution to their problem was handled a little too easy and rushed for some reason.

The book was going at a good pace, we all understood the roles that everyone was suppose to be playing and then BAM, the story has a ginormous twist and chaos ensured. Merry is a smart and delightful girl who has a problem of choosing fiance's a little too quickly before she got to know them a little better.

I believe that was how she got herself engaged the third time. Her aunt was pressuring her into getting married to stop all the gossip about her breaking two engagements. With that pressure constantly on her, she hastily accepted the marriage proposal even though she was having second thoughts about it.

Trent, on the other hand, is living in a bucket of guilt for being born first. A fact his brother never lets him forget. Trent has an unhealthy idea about love, which was perfectly explained in the book and made me feel sorry for him.

This book was well written except for certain parts that seem as if +Eloisa James changed her mind about Trent's brother. He went through such a drastic change in a very short about of time and did something that was completely out of character. That was the only part of the book I was not satisfied with. Other than that, I had a blast reading the book, especially the part about the tumble down the stairs. That's a little teaser for you guys, lol
Thoughts: Very entertaining story but was too easily resolved.
Grade: B+
Review by: Nathifa
[...]

Where should I start. I’ve always been a fan of Eloise James and her books so this jump into a new series has got me jumping for joy. It hasn’t been that long since her latest release in the Duchesses series, but to be working on this new series along side an already loved series is just mind boggling. But also refreshing.

This is the first in the series and definitely a change from what I’ve been getting from Eloise. Her heroine is an American, a Bostonian in fact, and has traveled to England for a husband. Having already ditched two fiancees back home and carrying a reputation for it, her aunt thought to bring her to experience the other side of life across the ocean, of which was the home of her departed mother. But of course being and American means she’s not “ton” enough yet not “bad ton” either to be snubbed by aristocrats. She’s an heiress so that comes with something for the English, but then she’s too brash and too independent with a mind of her own and talks without restraint. However, she is trying to learn the way of the English if she is to find a husband.

Trent, was so not who I thought he was from the blurb on the back cover of this book. That blurb is highly misleading, in my opinion, and wasn’t the Trent I came to know and love in the story. Maybe I just read the back cover of him as any other rakish brooding arrogant Duke but, wow! I was so wrong. He wasn’t anything like what I thought he would be and had so much more to his character and life than I could have imagined. He’s softhearted and simple with lots of love to share, not just in the sheets but to humanity, and not the lavish living money spending noble that his title implies.

Of course when these two meet she’s engaged to another man and it had to be someone close to Trent. This is where all the stress, anxiety, and frustration comes from. You know this will definitely be complicated if it’s someone close to Trent and all the rules of how not to get involved with ladies belonging to another man, let alone someone close to you. You just don’t cross it. But you know how it goes, there’s a HEA~

I absolutely love it when Trent and Merry are together. They have the most fascinating conversations and heart racing scenes, even when it’s just simple interaction. These are the scenes where we see them open up about their thoughts and opinions on every day things without the other judging them but listening and sharing their own opinions and bring more questions to their talk or moving it into another topic or something else.

Anyways, I felt like this is one of her better books that I’ve read in a long time. Like I just liked this book way better than many of her other great books. I mean come on, I love the Duchesses series and absolutely couldn’t wait for the second generation books in this series but this folks, I loved this like, way more than I thought.

Like I absolutely found myself relating to or identifying with the heroine. Sure I’ve never been in her shoes but She’s an American, she speaks her mind (when she can of course), she’s not all delicate and swooning like the other ladies, shes hilarious, and she’s real to her self. Of course we see this in a lot of our heroines but I just connected with this one more. Maybe it’s the way she rationalize things and speaks, or that she believes people should be seen and judged for their accomplishments rather than class and titles. Maybe it’s because of her relationship with Trent and their open conversations too. I just really like Merry.

So I am definitely excited to see what’s next for this series and absolutely recommend this book. Absolutely.

I love stories about Rich Powerful and handsome Dukes. My American Duchess really was a great story with a lively cast of characters. This is one of those stories you can feel like you want to be there.

Merry Pelford and American Heiress has broken her marriage engagements twice. Her Aunt Bess and her Uncle Thaddeus brings her to London to find a husband. Poor Merry excepts a marriage proposal from Cedric Allardyee the brother of the Duke of Trent. Not ten minutes later the Duke of Trent happens upon Merry on the Balcony at the Portmeadow's Ball. The two not knowing who the other is get involved in funny and lively conversation. This lead Trent to decide he wants this American for himself and he will propose marriage as soon as he can find out her identity .

Timing was not on there side Merry realizes immediately that she should have waited to except Cedric's proposal of marriage. After meeting the stranger on the balcony she begins to think something is wrong with her. She and Trent realize they are to be brother and sister by marriage. Cedric is a drunk and a gambler and he really doesn't want to marry Merry. He loathes that she is American and is not good Ton!! But her money is another thing. Cedric need its!!

As events twist and turn Trent wins the day and gets his American Duchess, but will he admit he loves her or deny the emotions of love. This is a Hot Sexy Sensual Marriage between Merry and Trent. I really love stories that are relationship builders and not just angst. Merry and Trent grow in love with each other. They both are well written characters. The story has a great supporting cast of characters. I especially liked Aunt Bess and Uncle Thaddeus who has raised Merry as if she were there own child after the death of her parents.

I Highly Recommend My American Duchess!!

Merry, the plucky American heroine in My American Duchess, has broken two engagements at home in Boston, and comes to England to hopefully meet her future husband. Just as she gets engaged for the third time, she meets a strange man on a balcony at a ball and feels an instant connection with him. The Duke of Trent is fascinated by this outspoken, charismatic woman and decides instantly to marry her. Unfortunately for him, she is already engaged… to his twin brother. As she has two broken engagements behind her, she is determined to stick to this third engagement, and the Duke will not steal her away from his brother, who is a complete ass. So, the will they or won’t they dance of courtship begins.

Merry, is a very easy character to like, after all, she is very much like a modern American woman. She is forthright, truthful, and is not impressed by rank or royalty. These things make her somewhat of an embarrassment in English society of that day, but are also what makes her stand out, and keeps the Duke interested, and keeps my interest as well. Her fiancé, Cedric, is somewhat of a pig, and I think the book spends a little too much time with him, instead of focusing on the romance between the Duke and Merry. He was the largest obstacle they had to overcome to be together, so I get why he needed to be so a large part of the book, and also so unlikeable. However, I get the feeling Eloisa James’ next book may be his story, and I certainly hope he has grown up a little bit!

The Duke, as a lot of these historical men are, is too handsome for his own good, doesn’t dress in silks and satins, but in normal black pants, white shirts and boots. He does not believe in love either, which is the second obstacle he and Merry face as they tiptoe around each other and their feelings. However, don’t you historical romance fans worry, the book has a very nice HEA, and does not disappoint!

This book was a fun weekend read, well written, with a fun plucky heroine. If you like to fantasize about becoming an English princess, or in this case, an American Duchess, then this book will hit all of the right notes for you.

So, American heiresses marrying English nobles is kinda the latest trend in HR. Most are enjoyable but forgettable. But Eloisa James is not just any HR author - she is, IMH and expert O, one of the very best. I'm happy to say that My American Duchess lives up to what I've come to expect from EJ.

Merry Pelford's mother was English, but her father was thoroughly American, an inventor and statesman. Merry feels he could have become president some day if he hadn't died too early. Her mother is also dead, so her aunt and uncle have taken her in and have treated her like a beloved daughter.

Merry, unfortunately, has unwisely become engaged on two occasions, each time soon realizing that she had made a mistake. So she has a reputation as a jilt, hence her aunt and uncle have brought her to London to leave behind this rather unsavory past. She has been courted by Cedric Allardyce, the younger of twin sons of the deceased Duke of Trent. Cedric is, therefore, merely a lord while his older twin is the Duke. Cedric has romantically wooed Merry and in the opening pages, he proposes to Merry at a charity ball, whilst quoting Shakespeare, which Merry does not identify (as an American, she hasn't been force-fed Shakespeare since infancy). Merry is impressed with Cedric's romantic gestures and so she agrees to become Lady Cedric Allardyce.

But Merry has just met someone who intrigued her - a man very different from Cedric. Much larger, dressed very plainly and all in black, and who talked to her as the intelligent woman she is. Later that evening she learns he is the Duke of Trent, her new fiance's twin.

As for Trent, he can't stop thinking about Merry either. And as the days go by and Merry begins to see through Cedric's gallant facade, she realizes she has done it again; she has affianced herself to the wrong man. But she can't possibly jilt another man, so she decides she must keep her promise and make the best of her marriage. And she does. In spite of wanting to run away with every footstep down the aisle of St. Paul's, she forces herself to join hands with her very-soon-to-be-husband, say her vows before God and this company and raise her face for his kiss. But instead of Cedric, she finds herself facing Trent.

There are so many romance tropes in this book, yet EJ turns the expected onto its head over and over and the result is a fresh, funny, tender story. I love the groom swap. I love the dog rescue. I love the pineapple fiasco. I love the amnesia bit. I love pretty much everything about this book, including the teaser about a redemption of Cedric (EJ commented here on GR that she may write a follow-up novella about one character, which I'm assuming would be about Cedric).

London - 1803

Miss Merry Pelford is a lovely, young American woman. Having lost her parents at a young age, she has been brought up in Boston by her loving aunt and uncle. A wealthy young woman, she has now come to London in search of a husband. She has been engaged twice before, but both relationships ended quickly. It appears that Merry realized that she just did not truly love these men.

The Duke of Trent inherited his title some years when his parents were killed in a carriage accident. His dedication to duty and running of his estates consumes his time. While he realizes that one day he will have to marry, he is in no hurry to do so. He knows that he has yet to meet the perfect woman who will challenge him intelligently instead of the usual retinue of missish young ladies he encounters at soirees. He is also quite concerned about his younger twin brother, Cedric. The man spends too much money and is, quite simply, a drunk. He is good at concealing it from the public. He acts rather normal when out in society, but becomes very drunk when he returns home every night. Trent has no patience with Cedric’s heavy alcohol consumption as his father had been drinking when he was driving the carriage when their fatal accident occurred.

Just now, Lord Cedric Allardyce has asked for Merry Pelford's hand in marriage. The man is quite handsome, well dressed, and full of flowery language but she is unaware of the person he really is. He realizes that she is a very rich heiress and he lusts after her money. Merry is quite smitten with him and accepts. But before the engagement can be announced, Merry meets another man the same evening with whom she has a delightful conversation and to whom she is attracted. He is none other than the Duke of Trent. They don’t know one another’s names at the time they converse. The Duke is so taken with Merry that he decides he wants to learn her name and is sure that she is the one he wants to marry. When he sees her later, he is shocked to find that she had earlier agreed to marry Cedric and she realizes that once again, she has been very foolish and said yes to a proposal when she shouldn’t have.

We see how the attraction between Merry and Trent has caught fire and just cannot be denied. But Cedric shows his true colors with the threats he makes to Merry if she tries to call off the engagement. She has no other choice but to go through with the wedding.

How can Merry stand to live with a man as evil as Cedric?

This is where is story gets interesting. I liked Merry very much. Her American ways and her intelligence are refreshing and fun. Trent has not known any love from his parents in his life so he doesn’t know what love is. How can he find happiness in his life? Cedric is portrayed perfectly as the evil, jealous twin. However, I can’t help but hope he has a comeuppance in his future that will help him mend his ways. Trent was hard to like. I felt like Merry gives it all in the story and Trent just takes. But maybe I’m wrong. Do read this book and be sure to write a review with your opinion.

So, so good...exactly as you'd expect from an Eloisa James book--swoony and steamy romance, quirky characters,and laugh-out-loud humor. And yet, My American Duchess was not quite what I was expecting, given the blurb. Although I loved, loved, loved both Merry and Trent--such wonderful characters, and so wonderful together!--and though the whole Merry's-engaged-to-another-man part was as angsty and heart-wrenching as one could wish, that part was resolved much sooner in the novel than I ever would have expected...and Merry was Trent's American duchess, and all was adorableness and HEA-like.

Except it wasn't. Because that's when Merry and Trent's pasts came back to haunt them--specifically, the one where Merry believed she had already loved and then fell out of love with three other men, and the one where Trent believed he was both unlovable and incapable of loving. He wanted their marriage to be based on mutual affection and friendship; he had no interest in being the next man that Merry fell in and then out of love with. Merry, on the other hand, had come to realize that she hadn't been in love with those other men at all--she simply hadn't been aware of what love was until Trent.

But trying to convince her husband of that? Yeah, it didn't quite have the result she'd been hoping for. And then we came to the several chapters of the book where I was thinking very nasty things about the sixth Duke of Trent...because of course the dufus loved his wife. But how on earth was he ever going to figure it out? Especially because his rejection of her professed feelings had made his wife retreat into herself, and she wasn't at all behaving like the "American duchess" that she'd been earlier.

Grrr. I loved Trent, except in the parts of the book where he made me get all growly. Then I wanted to smack him upside the head. With love, of course. For his own good.

But My American Duchess is an Eloisa James book, so you know that it's all going to work out in the end, no matter how bleak she makes things appear for a while. We get our final HEA, and Ms. James teases us by saying what Trent's twin's been doing for the bulk of the book is "story for another time"--dare we hope he'll be the subject of a future novella? Fingers crossed!

Rating: 4 stars / A-

Very disappointed after the last few I read by this author which were just fabulous. Everyone liked Lady X, it seems. That was very good but I actually liked "A Duke of Her Own" better and thought that was her personal best. Four Nights with the Duke was aso very goodt. After reading these three, and quite a few older duds in between, I couldn't wait for her latest as she had quickly become a new favorite author for me. Where should I start? Moved too fast in the beginning with her meeting the hero, I think. Everyone hated the brother. The heroine was a total whimp especially with the fiance, the brother. It was stupid and confusing why the Duke could not commit to loving the heroine almost up to the very end but he liked her very much. The love scenes were too frequent and yet brief and lacking something. It would have been better if they were a bit less but a lot more developed. This author kind of has a habit with that.
I have read other duds by this author for sure. There were several I didn't like but also a good three or four that were just amazing as mentioned above. Sorry but it wasn't her worst but it still was a drawn out, boring disappointment.

I love Eloisa's books, her stories are wonderfully romantic, sizzling and delicious ( especially her Dukes and Duchesses).
My American Duchess is the story of an American adventuresome heiress, Merry Pelford, and the arrogant Duke of Trent.
Merry has jilted two American fiancés and has just become engaged to the handsome English lord Cedric when she met the Duke of Trent. Unfortunately she vowed to make it all the altar no matter how much she desired the Duke of Trent.
The Duke of Trent intends to marry a well-bred Englishwoman but one encounter with the beautiful, captivating Merry makes him determine to have Merry as his wife, but there is a big problem she is engaged to his..............
Eloisa James did it again, she creates another captivating, enthralling historical romance with lovable characters, great chemistry and unpredictable plot.
I really enjoyed reading My American Duchess and Loved it; it was sweet, emotional and definitely a page turner.
I highly recommend this sizzling romance.
Thank you Eloisa James

A really, really good book. Eloisa James' writing style shines through once again. The Duke of Trent (our hero) is a deliciously stuffy, confused guy who knows what he wants, sort of. You gotta love Merry (our American heroine). She is fun, irrepressible, and is sure she knows what she wants until she realizes she doesn't. In spite of all of the confused emotions these two are incredibly attracted to each other. When the roadblocks break down and they get together the sexual interaction is explosive. BUT...great sex doesn't always mean all connections are made. We have misunderstandings, wrong thinking, and emotional ruts to climb out of. Both characters have to make some significant modifications to make everything work. In addition to the great sex the book is full of great dialogue and meaningful interactions between our H and h. This is Eloisa James at her best. I loved it.

This is an honest review provided in exchange for the privilege of reading an ARC of the book.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher . This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I spent Christmas morning with Eloisa James. After opening presents of course! I never step into on of her books thinking it's going to be boring. And of course it never is! I've read historical romances for 20 years! They are my favorite! Eloisa James is one of my top 5 favorite historical romance writers. This story was original, the characters had depth and we're both likeable and destible, depending on the person. I'll be buying the paperback of course!

I just love Eloisa James writing. Merry an American who came to London after 2 failed engagements. She meets Cedric and thinks she is in love with him so she accepts his proposal. Unbeknownst to her she is chatting with the Duke of Trent who is Cedric's twin brother and feels a stirring for him. After Trent talks to the most refreshing woman he has ever met, wants and introduction because he believes he has found his Duchess. Of course he is totally dismayed when he finds out Merry is engaged to his brother. Merry vows she will go through with this marriage and Trent believes she will be good for Cedric. Let's just say Merry does walk down the isle and is shocked as who she marries after the I Do's are exchanged. A wonderful read with a remarkable ending.

As the back cover says, the arrogant Duke of Trent intends to marry a well-bred Englishwoman... but along comes Merry

Merry is an AMERICAN - and a runaway bride to boot! Plus she speaks her mind. Not like the rest of society...

To be honest, I really enjoyed this book. Trent and Merry are instantly attracted to each other, but trying to live up to society's expectations. Their love has some serious challenges - she is engaged to Trent's twin brother Cedric. Each has their own insecurities, but have confidence in themselves. Merry is young - and experiencing a youthful definition of love. Trent, having had love thrown back in his face by his parents, doesn't know if he CAN love. The characters grow up - together.

My only negative was how Cedric was dealt with - didn't quite buy his bow out.

Entertaining reading for a quiet weekend.

Although I don't think this story compares to her other work, it was okay. At the beginning it dragged, I almost closed the book and stopped but I am never one to give up so I continued hoping it would get better and it did, three quarters into the story it got better. I have read all of this author's books, some several times and was anxiously awaiting the release of this one and was a bit disappointed. The story had suspense, some slight humor, misunderstandings, lies, intrigues, hidden pain, romance, and a happily ever after.

The Sixth Duke of Trent with too many names to bear repeating wanted a wife, maybe but whenever suited him fine. Trent did not want a wife that was opinionated, over confident, one perfectly suited to the Ton, and definitely not involved with his annoying twin brother. The problem with wants and needs is you run into the perfect woman with a delightful name and all sensible thought escapes you. Trent met Lady Merry from America on the balcony with no other thought in his mind but that he must have her. The problem was his twin had already gotten himself engaged to her which unfortunately was the third engagement Merry had accepted. This was another factor in the don’t love Merry category, she was indecisive, or was she.

The more time Trent spends with her the more he has to remind himself that wanting Merry is not another prize to win over from his brother, she is to marry and not to Trent. This though is rational but everything about Merry is not and her outspoken ways and delight in life the way no English woman would dare have is intoxicating. Merry is not fickle she is in fact full of amazing and interesting facts she loves to share and Trent cannot seem to get enough of even over the most boring of dinners.

However, should he have her would he be able to love her as a husband must a wife, since love is the least of the interesting emotions to him. Trent had never been loved by family and felt friendship with respect was more important and a stabilizing factor for a long term relationship. With the possibility of having Merry in his life becoming a realistic factor it is time for Trent to decide is the past truly over and can he spend the rest of his life with a Duchess that is not going to fit in any cookie cutter English mold?

This book was entertaining first you have an American heiress (Merry) who has broken off two engagements, the Duke's brother who is currently betrothed to Merry, and The Duke Trent who needs a duchess.
From the moment Trent and Merry meet he is infatuated with her, and the fact she is betrothed is not known to him yet. The story develops with the Duke wanting to be with Merry,but knowing he can't. That is until his brother makes a huge mistake and Merry starts seeing what is going on. If I keep on going on I will spoil it for you. Lets just say between the three of them there are many things that need to be learned. The comedy of some of the things Merry does as she is in fact an American and does not really know all of the proper etiquette.

Merry is a heiress who has arrived in England with a reputation. She's ditched two fiances and she's American, someone who isn't doing very well acting like an English person. She's just gotten engaged when she meets Trent, a Duke whom she later finds is her fiance's brother.

I loved the passion between Merry & Trent. The story was entertaining and sweet - which I've been missing in the historical novels I've read lately.

Rating 4 1/2 Stars

Where to begin on My American Duchess? Okay, the story can be broken up into two halves. We have the first half that focuses on Merry and her engagement on Cedric, while Cedric's brother pines over Merry. It's actually more than that. Merry is this vibrant American who is trying her hand at the season after all she jilted two betrothals. She's determine to stick with this engagement no matter what, even when she has doubts. Now Cedric is a sanctimonious prig. Basically, he's after Merry's dowry, but he spouts off inane stuff to woo her. At first, she falls for it. While he's at it, he pretty much paints his brother in a bad light. Now Trent is a Duke and falls for Merry, but finds out that she's engage to his brother. He tries to put her out of his mind. Yet, it doesn't work. We have this complication. I wouldn't say it's a love triangle cause Trent and Merry are better suited for one another, while his brother tries to make her English. Merry starts to realize that Cedric isn't a good match for her. Stubborn jerk. There is so much that goes on between this half. The dynamics of the story are powerful. I adore Merry during this time, because she strives to the ultimate american, even though she's faced with prejudice.

The second half of My American Duchess focuses on Trent and Merry and their marriage. It starts off a little rocky, but by the end of it works out. Trent wants to go about marriage a logical way, but Merry being herself can't really do that. However, she starts to mold herself to be the perfect English Duchess, and funny Trent has a hard time with this.

Overall, I did enjoyed My American Duchess. I adore Merry's spitfire and she's so American and I love that about her. As far as I know there isn't going to be story for Cedric, by the way I would love to see. At the end of the book we see that he changes drastically. At some parts of the story I wouldn't have been sad if he had died on his journey, because he was that horrible. I'm glad that My American Duchess ended up being a full novel instead of a novella, because it's complex storyline it would have been short changed had it been a novella.

Copy provided by Avon.

The main moral of Eloisa James' My American Duchess appears to be that lust doesn't mean love. Plenty of examples of the former are provided by James (in great detail) presumably to demonstrate that maxim (as well as to entertain romance readers who love/require such scenes).
Another message is that friendship (even close, admiring, supportive and intellectually satisfying friendship) doesn't necessarily equate with love.
Even when constant, well-sated lust is combined with close friendship, admiration and out-of-the-ordinary intellectual amity they do not add up to love.
Or do they?
American heiress, Merry has fallen in and out of love too often, discarding three fiancées along the way, the most recent being the dissolute twin brother of the man who ultimately makes her his Duchess. Her judgement has been so poor that she mistrusts her capacity to be steadfast to anyone.
Jack, or Trent (a Duke with many other monikers) is blindsided by Merry at their first meeting, obsessing about her breasts (he does go on and on about them) but also captivated by her charm, her intelligence, her dimple and her capacity to make him laugh. Unlike Merry, his childhood has ensured that he doesn't fall in and out of love and he disbelieves Merry's ability to maintain a long term marriage once an easy infatuation diminishes.
Trent is insistent that their marriage will be based on friendship, respect and lust - and that romantic love will never be present between them. Merry, who has been tricked into marriage (how does she get over that so quickly) is initially so discombobulated that she agrees, confident that she does not love Trent.
Of course, James enjoys herself while she unravels that agreement, as Merry and Trent each become desperate, in their different ways. (As an aside, much of the Duke's early connection with Merry is about his obsessive lust, but one wonders if James can possibly be right? Is it credible that a man who is shagging his wife [he won't agree that it is "making love" and the store won't allow the use of the word he uses to describe their intercourse] morning, noon, afternoon and a gazillion times every night, day after day, would still have a constant erection for four hours between two of those bouts? I realise that he is supposed to be virile, but even so! Irrespective that some of us will experience a level of incredulity, it must be acknowledged that James relishes in the delivery of these details and her loyal fans appear to love her brand of eroticism.)
James very evidently also enjoys herself as she highlights the pomposity of the worst of the ton, with its condescension and ignorance towards Americans/Colonials in that era. She does that convincingly, with some seriousness, but also humour.
It is interesting when she focuses on the use of a pineapple to illustrate the snobbishness and stupidity and desperation of those clinging to the edges of the ton, as well as the insularity, cruelty (and amusing capacity to be led/manipulated) of those well ensconced in it. (Intriguingly, Lucinda Brant, in her 2015 Roxton title, Dair Devil, also gave prominence to pineapple growing in the Georgian era, and to the Chelsea Physic Garden - which remains a wonderful oasis in the built-up London of today.)
James is a skilful and erudite writer and My American Duchess is competently drawn. In my view, it doesn't, however, match the passionate intensity of the best of the earlier Duchess series. I can't figure out why - unless it is because the story gets somewhat bogged down by Merry's compulsion to hear those three words and Trent's compulsion not to utter them. (In comparison, Jemima's story - and even Poppy's - offer so much more complexity.)
I enjoyed My American Duchess. I don't regret buying it and, once again, I will pr-eorder the next James title as soon as it becomes available, as she outshines most HR authors. It is just that this story won't be joining my set of absolute favourites, so it is 4 stars instead of 5.
Bought in Kindle format from the store.
ETA
PS Sometimes, after a few days, the strength of a book resonates more and one relishes parts previously given little prominence. Not so with this book. It's the weaknesses and irritations that are becoming the more prominent memories, lessening my previous enjoyment, guarded though it was. A shame.

I thoroughly enjoyed Eloisa James My American Duchess. No, it was not deep pondering literature or intensely frantic subplots, but it was a lighthearted softer look at the elegant but often harsh to outsiders Ton. The romance set up and execution was pretty straightforward, but both characters were engaging and the dialogue made me chuckle out loud once or twice. None of the situations spoken of by other reviewers bothered me at all and the story was well written enough that I just accepted the oddity of the marriage ceremony (and with the epilogue, looking back, even more of it made a bit more sense.

It was very fun seeing the Ton through the eyes of an American who could hold her own. Our heroine neither allowed the Ton to berate her or fear of their judgement to direct her actions (which is VERY American lol). At the same time, I also relished seeing the Ton being put a little more in it's place because of her. This is the first book I have read of this era where the main character is not terrified of being "cut" because she is not tied to the British way of life... yet :D.

The only negative thing I have to add (and the reason I only Liked it very much instead of loved it) is that once they were married the book is just sex sex sex for pages and pages and pages. I am not overly fond of reading intimate scenes anyway, but chapters of it? I mean after the main "event" I think the others could have been more alluded to rather than revisited over and over. I appreciate that the main characters are so into each other, but I don't want to read about it over and over and over. BUT, that is a particular view of my own and might not bother others. So overall I really enjoyed the read and it kept me engaged and entertained. It is a light romance without a lot of passion or intensity, but quite a bit of humor and a unique view of the beau monde makes it a book worth purchasing and reading in my judgement.

My American Duchess was written very well and I found it very entertaining. The intimate scenes were not overdone and did not go into explicit detail. I loved the main characters and enjoyed the byplay conversations between them. There was both humor and drama and when the characters were at odds with each other, it didn't seem overplayed. I think that my biggest problem with the book is when the heroine has a fall and doesn't seem to be injured nearly as much as she should for the distance portrayed.

This will go on my keeper shelf. I throughly enjoyed the characters, the comedy, the passion these two shared. I laughed out loud picturing the scenes as they unfolded. Bravo Ms. James! I would gladly give this book a 10.

Another one of Eloisa's Best. My new favourite. Wonderful story with witty plot, not what I expected. Love this American heiress who set the English high society all atwitter, and had a knack for stumping the snobs with, "Do you know....?" fact. The aristocrats didn't stand a chance, including the Duke of Trent, especially the Duke of Trent! Found myself on a roller-coaster ride of emotions with Merry; sided with her, wanted to protect her, fighting along with her, angry on her behalf, cheering for her, you name it! This book is great fun.

EJ writes another amazing book. I just couldn't put it down; I literally didn't move till I finished it :)

The story is about an American girl that came to London and the cultural differences she faced... It's also about how she fell in love, for good this time. Merry is a fun heroine, who speaks her mind and makes some small gaffes. She has a talent for remembering obscure trivia and also spouting it off when she maybe shouldn't.

Trent, the hero, seems to be a bit of a stick in the mud, he's heroic, isn't like the other aristocrats afraid to work and he was also infatuated with the heroine from the moment he met her. That's when he decided he'll marry her, without knowing that his brother proposed first. You can imagine that caused a bit of a problem.

I recommend this with an open heart to anyone who loves historical romance with a quirky heroine, a serious hero and a pineapple.

>Book Review – My American Duchess –

>I am an independent reviewer. This is a standalone novel with an HEA. Merry is an American colonist traveling with her aunt and uncle to England to find a husband. She jilted 2 suitors in Boston and wants a fresh start in London. Merry seems like a girl with a good head on her shoulders and I realize the time period prohibited couples from really knowing each other until they actually married. Even so, Merry seemed to accept the first English proposal she received without much thought.

>Twin brothers, always at odds and now both in love with Merry, but only one engaged to her. As the story goes on, the Duke of Trent is shown in a positive light, while the fiancé, Cedric, is just deplorable. Once again, Merry ignores a lot of warning signs and continues the engagement. Now I don’t want to ruin the story, but part of the plot revolves around the Duke of Trent not feeling a capacity to love, yet in the beginning of the story he is in love with Merry. I felt a bit confused with his feelings, words and actions.

>The story was a fun historical romance, appropriate for an adult audience. Maybe some of the plot seemed silly, but the overall story worked. I am giving this book 4 stars.

I enjoyed reading "My American Duchess", good story, great HH&h (twin brothers), Highly recommend! I've read 15 of Ms. James books so far. Others of my favorites are: "Three Weeks With Lady X", "A Kiss At Midnight", Four Nights With A Duke", "Once Upon A Tower", "Midnight Pleasures", "Beyond Innocence", & Beyond Seduction"; in no particular order. Happy Reading!

This almost felt like two different books in one. The first half deals with an American heiress, betrothed to the wrong man. I didn’t enjoy this half very much. The book is called My American Duchess, so it’s no big leap to realize that Merry’s engagement to the Duke’s brother isn’t the way the story is going to end. In fact, when she meets the Duke of Trent that very same night, it’s obvious that he is the better match. There’s a great spark between them, that sits completely unattended for more than 150 pages.

That’s a long time to wait. A long time without a single kiss. A long time without even so much as an acknowledgement between them that there is… well, anything, except a future as in laws. Meanwhile, we watch Merry contort herself into what she thinks would be an acceptable spouse for Trent’s brother, Cedric. I should mention that Cedric has virtually no redeeming qualities. He is a drunk. He is marrying Merry for her money. And he constantly berates her.

No, I didn’t enjoy the first half of this book at all. Merry is a secure, intelligent woman, belittled over and over by the man she is supposedly in love with, for the very things that make her interesting. I loathed Cedric. But the fact that Merry stayed with him made me like her less. Her personality is bold and fun. But she is also emotionally immature and her grand love for Cedric made this even more apparent. The only character that I could respect was Trent.

The second half of the book is the actual romance between Merry and Trent. I liked this half much more, simply because we made it to the romance part. It’s clear that Trent and Merry are a good match. It’s obvious to the reader that they love each other, even if it takes Trent a bit longer to catch on that what he’s feeling actually has a name. I felt like the conflict over the word “love” was a little contrived. But the spark was good between the hero and heroine. The love scenes were sexy. And I wanted these two to make it work, so it was satisfying when they finally did.

Unfortunately, it just took too long to get to the part of the storyline that I cared about. And when we did get there, there just wasn’t enough substantial development to overcome the first half. Maybe if there was a conflict beyond Merry’s fickle heart and Trent’s fear… but, alas, there was not.

Not the best I have read from this author.

Rating: B-/C+

4/4.5 Stars | Hot Steam

As an ardent fan of Eloisa James’s incomparably brilliant, remarkably compelling and always, always, always, spectacularly satisfying stories, I couldn’t contain my excitement when her newest novel appeared on my e-reader. Eager and impatient to discover Merry and Trent’s fate, I dove right in—instantly mesmerized by the delightful couple’s marvelously entertaining tale. Light-hearted, witty, wildly romantic and incredibly sexy, MY AMERICAN DUCHESS sparkled and enchanted from start to finish. So taken with Merry and Trent’s scrumptious affair, I intently re-read it the following day—unhurried and in absolute ecstasy—as I laughed, sighed, swooned and savored my favorite scenes all over again!

Sunny, spirited and sweet, Merry is a perfectly lovable heroine whose admirable intelligence, sincerity, amusing outspokenness and endearingly innocent, but informed and steady perspective, is a joy to read. She’s strong, grounded, unpretentious, undemanding and in possession of such a benevolent heart, brimming with endless affection, care and concern for those surrounding her. Unique, unforgettable and utterly adorable, it’s no wonder that after one chance, candid and momentous tête-à-tête on a darkened ballroom balcony that Trent must unequivocally have Merry for his Duchess. No one else will do. She becomes his singular desire, his blinding obsession and his reason for living. And, it is so much dizzying fun to read!

That dark, brusque, and impossibly seductive Duke simply can’t stay away—despite his own gentlemanly standards, despite what he knows is the right thing to do—he just can’t forget her. He seeks her out, chases her down and does everything within his power to ease her troubles and please her. I loved reading his mad-with-lust POV each time she was near. Oh my, where his deliciously wicked mind would lead…(*Fanning Self*) I reveled in every naughty fantasy he conjured and could’t wait until they could finally be together. And when they do lawfully unite, Trent makes it is his married life’s mission to turn every one of his sultry reveries into blistering-hot realities. No location, surface, hour of day or creamy inch of supple skin is safe from his ravenous pursuit of pleasure with his treasured Merry. He insatiably worships her, enviably adores her, and I loved every passionate minute of it!

A dazzling stand-alone, Merry and Trent’s beautifully sensual story is one of this season’s finest romances and one of my all-time favorite Eloisa James novels to date. Now I only have to wait eleven months until our own American Duchess of Historical Romance releases her next sure-to-be sensation, SEVEN MINUTES IN HEAVEN (Desperate Duchesses by the Numbers #3). Regina and Ward’s story sounds AMAZING! Let the countdown begin!

Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

Eloisa doesn't know how to write a bad book, but I think you'll find MY AMERICAN DUCHESS a delightful read. I'm not going to summarize the plot here because many other reviews have already done so. Let me just tell you how much I enjoyed the first of Eloisa's books to have an AMERICAN as its heroine. Imagine putting an independent American girl together with a traditional English Duke!
Just sit back with this book and watch the fireworks fly!
My American Duchess

My American Duchess is another winner for Eloisa James. She has a true talent for creating heroines you root for, heroes you fall in love with, secondary characters you want to read more about, and stories that are utterly romantic. In this one, the Duke of Trent has no desire to marry until he meets a feisty American young lady on a dark terrace. She speaks to him like no English lady ever would, and he likes it. He decides then and there that he will marry her. There’s only one problem: she’s already engaged…to his twin brother! What’s a duke to do?? Do yourself a favor and pick this one up—it is an absolute delight!

You want to read a romance novel? This is a ROMANCE novel! I loved this book so much! I hated to finish it. It is my new favorite Eloisa James book, and that is saying a lot! The hero is delicious, and the heroine is adorable. If you want to have tears in your eyes and a huge smile on your face, I highly recommend this book!!!

The audible edition of MY AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great listen. Interesting, entertaining, romantic. I loved watching the Duke of Trent and Merry fall in love. Their problems seemed insurmountable and the ride was so worth it!
Highly recommended to fans of British/England-set Historical Victorian Romance.

Sensuality Level: Hot
Language: PG-13
Violence: mild

I enjoy all of Eloisa James work and this latest novel is no exception. It was witty, light-hearted, and a perfect weekend read. I enjoyed the characters Merry and Trent, not a fan of Cedric at all, and loved how James wrote the dogs George and Snowdrop into the tale. I recommend this book and all of Ms. Eloisa's works.

I absolutely loved this book! I love stories just like this. It was humorous, intriguing, an amazing heroine, a wonderfully sexy hero, and a twist that will make you squeal! Seriously one of the best books I have read this year!!!!

American Merry came to London to marry. She left America with 2 broken betrothals in her wake. She cannot break a third. In comes Lord Cedric and his lovely, plagiarized proposal on bended knee. She accepts and then meets the man of her dreams. A Duke, of course. This is an Eloisa James novel. She cannot break her betrothal to Cedric but the road to the alter is strewn with reasons to flee marriage to Cedric. Cedric's brother, Trent, is a Duke and Merry's dream man.
This book is witty as all of Eloisa James' books and the journey to the Happily ever after is not straight. At times the book is even a bit diabolical. A must read. A must have for your library.

this is a historically inaccurate Harlequin bodice riper. So many historical faux pas it was beyond any credibility. Anyone looking for really great and clever Regency Period romances should try Georgette Heyer.

Eloisa James is an auto buy for me. Her books never fail to entertain. Many of them make me laugh out loud and can often bring me to tears---hallmarks of a great book. My American Duchess is one of EJ's best, in my opinion. From the first page to the last, I was engrossed in the story, caught up with the characters, like I was living among them. Merry, the heroine, is feisty, outspoken, and a delightful breath of fresh air. Is it any wonder Trent is captivated by her after just minutes of conversing with one another? Nothing will satisfy him, but to marry her. But then he finds out she's engaged to his brother, Cedric. The road to love is often filled with bumps, but suffice it to say that Merry and Trent will have bumps, fits, starts, and more than a few detours. But oh, it's so worth it!

I loved every moment of this book and give it my highest recommendation. It's a gem. Thank you, Eloisa, for gifting us with another keeper. I look forward to rereading it again and again. It has an honored place on my keeper shelves.

I enjoyed this book very much although it was slow getting into at first. I would have loved to have had more of a story of Cedric giving up Merry to his brother. I look forward to reading Cedrics story so maybe then they will go over that part more.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was different in that it covered the beginning of the marriage. There was a slight twist at the end concerning a former beau that seemed out of character, but did not detract from the book at all.
And I loved all the pineapple facts.

A must read. Eloise James does it again. Great characters. Humor. Romance. Delicious sex as well as a great story. This book could've ended halfway through but The complete story is wonderful. Did I mention delicious sex? If you've never read any of her books you will be hooked

5 stars! Review copy was provided by publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Eloisa James was one of the major historical romance authors that I like during my initial historical romance phase in high school and college. So much happened in this story so let's get to it. Merry Pelford is an American heiress who has jilted two fiances, despite her intentions to wed. The Duke of Trent inherited his title as a young man after the tragic death of his parents. After being slight by his twin brother, Cedric, Trent steps onto the balcony and is enchanted by the curvaceous little American. The chemistry between Merry and Trent makes them a good match, especially their flirtatious banter. Trent might not have known the identity of his American, but he certainly wants to make her his wife. Little did they know that they'll be introduced pretty soon. *SPOILER* [Merry is already engaged to Cedric.] Yup, Trent's brother. You can imagine the embarrassment from both parties. Let me be clear, there's no love triangle between a girl and two brothers. Merry is engaged and "in love" with the younger twin, while being very attracted to the Duke. This is obviously a love story between Trent and Merry, but how to make the brother disappear?

Let me clarify why Merry is "in love" with Cedric. Merry was "in love" with her two previous suitors as well, but after some time, changed her mind and broke off the engagements. With a pattern of infatuation that dissipated after some time, Merry was determined to see this engagement through. By doing so, Merry saw Cedric through rose-colored glasses and in some cases, excessively giving him the benefit of the doubt. Right off the bat, I thought Cedric was an ass. Everything he said was like a back-handed compliment. I was confident that Merry would eventually see Cedric for the type of person. Back to Merry and Trent, these two compliment each other, in that they don't exactly follow the molds that London society dictates. Each accepts the other as is and appreciates the other as a person. Merry and Trent started off as friends and eventually fell in love with each other. I appreciated the slow burn of a friendship turned romance. There's certainly nothing lacking in the romance department, but the wrench in their relationship is Trent's disposition that love is worthless and only wanted a friends with benefits relationship with Merry. This causes Merry much heartache because *SPOILER* [she actually, truly fell in love with him and he dismisses it for a passing fancy.] Given her previous reputation for jilting two fiances, it's logical and practical to assume that when Merry can be flighty, but things are different with Trent.

I loved all of the marriage moments between Trent and Merry and how they wade through married life together. There's definitely room for a continuation with a story for Cedric. He was a jerkface in the beginning and middle, but surprisingly redeemed himself enough to warrant his own story; probably a novella. I definitely enjoyed reading this book and will be reading Eloisa's newest books.

I simply could not believe all the 4 and 5 star reviews!! I did enjoy the first eight - ten chapters, but the rest of the book was very slow!! I can't believe anyone would marry someone because she had refused two others? How confusing was that? Not to understand or even want to know who your real spouse is, what?

I love it when a book I start to read hooks me from the very first page, this was such a book. The story was fabulous, honest, light and funny. I loved the anticipation of falling in love. Thank you Eloisa James you are a fab and fav writer.

I just loved reading My American Duchess! Merry and Trent's story was just wonderful and funny! I highly recommend this book to others. Eloisa James always does a wonderful job of writing her stories.

I have to admit that I love Eloisa James. She's on my auto-buy list, and I've met her in person, and she's fabulous. However, I have to agree with several other readers when I say this doesn't read like her. In her author notes, she mentions that the story started out as a novella, and I feel like that explains a lot. While Merry is a cute character, she's rather juvenile, and I didn't really buy into the whole insta-lust-I-must-marry-this strange girl that the hero has about two minutes after he meets her. Also, in another very unusual plot track for Eloisa, there's a ton of sex in the second part of the book. The hero runs around constantly aroused, and I didn't believe that either. In short, it's definitely not a keeper for me. If you're new to Eloisa, start with almost any of her other books instead.

I know I'm swimming upstream here but I didn't care for this novel. There was very little story, padded out by the hero's constant state of arousal (first half) and constant sex (second half.) I will say I was in awe of his endurance.

In brief, the heroine had dumped two previous fiances. Now, after a brief courtship she is again "in love" and we have betrothal #3. But she meets the new fiance's brother (our hero) and they're pretty thrilled with each other and develop a friendship ~ that's when the non-stop arousal of the first half begins. There's a bit about the rental of a pineapple for a dinner party, pineapple stoves, the viciousness of some members of the haut ton, the heroine finds herself married to the hero (don't ask...I'll get to it) ~ and that's when the non-stop sex begins. The heroine decides she's again in love (this time with the hero) and surprisingly, he doubts her. Then there's some minor angst working that out to an hea.

About the wedding ~ I'm supposed to believe that when her veil was lifted and she found herself staring at the hero, not her fiance, this American woman who had the gumption to dump two fiances didn't pitch some kind of fit? Granted, she despised the fiance but there's a big difference between being a jilt who's still in control of her destiny and being married for a lifetime. And she had no say in this? her marriage? How about when she was signing the register? Another opportunity to back out or have a hissy. But o/c the register's skipped ~ we went straight from kiss to carriage.

Some time after the marriage, the heroine attends a dinner party alone and *voluntarily* goes out to the garden with a snake who had been coming on to her. Of course that ended in trouble, the dumb bunny. But it worked for the plot, thin though it was.

Near the end, we learn that the ratty brother/ex-fiance had engineered the wedding out of the goodness of his heart? He, who never had a selfless thought in his life? Later, he (the ultimate snob) shows up on their doorstep with a woman, an apparent Indian, in tow. Yes, and pigs fly.

The rented pineapples and plants and the pineapple stove accounts were interesting as were some bits of dialogue. Can't say the writing was stellar. I thought it a poor effort.

I know Ms. James can write. "Three Weeks With Lady X" told me that.. Why didn't she here?

I love Eloisa James' writing and I love this book. This book is another book that hit it out of the park for me by Eloisa James. I loved Trent, Merry, and their story. This was a wonderful and captivating story from beginning to end. I gave up sleep to read this book- and I have a newborn so sleep is hard to come by right now!

A rare misstep from Eloisa James. I can't believe this is the same author that wrote some of the greatest romances of all time. The plot was boring, cliche and ridiculous, the heroine stupid and silly. And Cedric was so unlikable (a vain, cruel, idiotic alcoholic) I can't image how James will redeem him for his own novel, which is hinted at the end of the book. No thanks.

I wanted to read this book ever since reading the first "teaser". I love Eloisa James' books. They are always such a treat to read. This one is delightful. Merry- An American heiress born of an English mother and an American father is no stranger to American high society. After accepting two proposals of marriage in Boston, and then changing her mind, her aunt and uncle whisk her to England where Cedric-the second son proposes to her and a few moments later she meets his brother-the Duke and instant attraction starts to happen. She had promised herself she would accept a third proposal and go through with the marriage, but the Duke is consuming her thoughts. And he is consumed with thoughts of her.

Merry, as her name says, is joyfull and full of life. She had two broken engagements and it’s doing her best to make her third fiance the right one.
Cedric is all beauty and class, but he doesn’t like how American Merry is.
Meanwhile, Merry kind of falls in love with his twin brother, the all powerful Duke of Trent.
Jack is a wonderful hero, but he doesn’t deal well with his emotions. Great story of finding love and accepting it!

This book was great! the heroine was kooky and funny and energetic. the hero was strong and handsome and somewhat standoffish but still a great character. the storyline was fast paced and completely entertaining. the heroine is American heiress who can't seem to make a right move in polite society but when she meets the duke, she captivates him instantly. the only problem with them getting together is that she is engaged to his brother. his brother is an ass and a drunkard and I'm so glad everything worked out for the hero and heroine. the book is 402 pages in the paperback version but this book is so entertaining it just flies by. I loved this book and I hope you will too!

I can't say enough about how much I loved this story of Jack and Merry! It's rare that you get a story where there's no outside "bad guy" that's affecting the story, yet the characters themselves that provide all the depth and emotion. I can't wait for Cedric's story!
Patti Wissore

Eloisa doesn't know how to write a bad book, but I think you'll find MY AMERICAN DUCHESS a delightful read. I'm not going to summarize the plot here because many other reviews have already done so. Let me just tell you how much I enjoyed the first of Eloisa's books to have an AMERICAN as its heroine. Imagine putting an independent American girl together with a traditional English Duke!
Just sit back with this book and watch the fireworks fly!
My American Duchess

A must read. Eloise James does it again. Great characters. Humor. Romance. Delicious sex as well as a great story. This book could've ended halfway through but The complete story is wonderful. Did I mention delicious sex? If you've never read any of her books you will be hooked