Three Weeks With Lady X (Desperate Duchesses)

I'm using my personal copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads

4 stars

Genre: Historical Romance

Eloisa James is a favorite of mine when it comes to Historical Romance. I enjoy the author's voice, the easy flow of the story, the fast pacing, and the way she gives just enough but not too much description. Most of the books feature a strong sense of family, whether it be making sacrifices for the family you already have or the quest of creating a family of your own. All the characters are humanly flawed and relatable.

India was not your typical woman of the era. As an orphaned lady, she had more freedom to conduct business and pave a way through life than if she had to stick to the societal rules of the time. Basically, without an overbearing, marriage-seeking mother, India was left to grow and prosper. Focused, hardworking, but more naive than she thought herself to be.

Thorn was the illegitimate son of a Duke. He was abandoned by his mother, left to work and live on the streets, until his father found him and brought him home. Clearly this would lead to many issues. He wanted a reasonable wife, where they would have many children he would personally raise, and have a calm, honorable life.

In order to catch a wife, Thorn hired India to rehab his entire country estate. Three Weeks with Lady X turned into more than either expected.

My favorite parts of the book were the notes being passed back and forth. The banter was great during dialogue, but this is where the chemistry truly shined. Another amazing addition was Thorn's ward, Rose. The little girl sparked life into the novel, bringing about unintentional humor.

While I enjoyed the book, the reason I can't rave about it is because it dragged on at points, many moments of repetition where I wished the pacing would pick up. Since it wasn't an involved storyline, I'm not entirely sure the plot was able to support so many pages. This is historical romance, where you KNOW the hero and heroine will get their HEA, and it's about the journey for the reader. But the journey has to maintain its entertainment value page after page, and it became repetitious with Thorn singing the praises of Lala, a woman who was a complete stranger. Frankly, there were only so many times I could read where they had a misunderstanding about what the other meant during proposals between Thorn & India. Once was enough. Twice was pushing it. Three times and I was fed up and ready to read another story.

There was a side romance that was sprung at the 50% mark, finalizing at the 75% mark that most would find enjoyable. But, to be honest, I skipped it entirely wanting to get to the meat of the story.

Do I recommend this author? Yes, especially to those who are new to the genre and for those who have been pushed away previously with how wordy and filled with flowery over-description with some novels in the Historical Romance genre. Eloisa James creates a page-turning, easy read.

Will I read more in this series? Yes, who wouldn't want to read more about Vander?

This was pretty good. I may have given it four and a half stars if I could not I can't give it five. A Duke of Her Own. Now that is a five star read in my opinion.
I think I liked this though a little better than Four Nights with a Duke which I actuallly read before this, was my first by this author and made me want to read more. It was very good. Like Four Nights, the story just keeps you hooked. The sexual tension is great but I find myself a little disappointed wiith the love scenes. They're okay but kind of fast and the reason for my four stars. Kind of wishing the love scenes could be more like Lisa Klyepas's early works. Found myself disliking both the hero and the heroine in the beginning. Same with Four Nights. In that the hero was a real jerk for at leat the first quarter of the book but I may have liked Vander better than Thorn. Vander seemed a bit more developed. There was something cold and shallow about Thorn and it was really kind of pathetic on how dead set he was for such a long time in marrying another. Although India was difficult too, he deserved what he got. Liked India better as a heroine but in this book she wasn't too likeable in the beginning either. Kind of a snob. Another problem I had was relating to the time period. 1799? Not sure why that bothered me but it seemed more like it should have been 1820 or 30. I see that this author loves to throw in a kid and do actually more than just throw one in, really likes to build a story around a child. Not crazy about that but it was a bit better in this book than in Four Nights with the boy.Would read more based on the first two I read. I'm kind of going backwards. Don't miss a Duke of Her Own. I feel it was this author's best and I read most of her books.

And what a meeting! What a perfectly delightful 3 weeks, getting acquainted with marvelously crafted complex characters in a lovely setting with a unique plot twist. I loved it and truly, truly hated to see it end. This book was well worth the money for the entertainment it gave me. A book that was hard to put down.

Thorn, bastard son of a duke, purchases sight unseen a country estate to impress the woman he has chosen to marry. Unlike many other bastard stories, and to my delight, Thorn has a good relationship with his father and step mother. Although he carries scars from his troubled childhood, he carries them well and has overcome a lot of obstacles to have become the man we meet. He’s the image of his father, the duke, but has no pretension to enter society, accepting the limitations imposed by his illegitimacy. He has amassed a fortune, using his native intelligence and creativity and now he wants a wife and children.

He chooses his wife for the characteristics he wants for the mother of his children – and I found that endearing. She is beautiful, gentle and sweet-natured, if considered a bit, well…simple. So now he has chosen a candidate for bride and purchased a home to showcase his family. Except, his home needs some rather extensive renovations to make it habitable. Enter, fate, in the guise of his stepmother, who hires the equivalent of an interior decorator and staffing consultant – Lady Xenobia India.

Lady X is very good at what she does. She is also lovely, independent, outspoken, wealthy and daughter of a marquess. She too bears scars from her childhood experiences, but doesn’t carry them quite so well as Thorn. This renovation work for Thorn is to be her last. She plans to retire and marry – she just isn’t sure who she’ll marry.

Working for Thorn isn’t what she expected – it is so much more! She grows to love his house, his parents, his ward and eventually him. The dialog is witty and sassy, the character development warm and wonderful. Watching them spar with each other and seeing the sparks fly is so much fun. Watching them untangle the knots that have ensnared them is so satisfying. No big misunderstandings, plenty of humor and splashes of pathos. He makes a wonderful hero – just the kind I really like – and she’s every bit his match and equally likeable. The build up to the HEA was just plain FUN. I really, really liked this book.

The moment I read the blurb for Three Weeks with Lady X I was drawn in. I knew it wouldn't disappoint and it definitely doesn't. Tobias "Thorn" is the bastard son of the Duke of Villiers. Thorn has decided that it's time for him to get married. He has a woman already chosen that he feels will be everything he is looking for in a wife. First, however, he must convincer her mother that he's worthy (being a bastard and all of course). He's bought a love country home that is badly in need of refurbishing. No one comes more highley recommended than Lady Xenobia India St. Clair.

India has built her own reputation. After the death of her parents, she decided to take her future in her own hands. She started helping out friends of her godmother with redecorating. This has led to many people demanding her services as well as quite a few offers of marriage. India is quite the independent woman and everything opposite what Thorn is looking for in a wife. India decides to take on the project of Thorn's country house as a final hurrah before she retires in order to, herself, marry. The spark between India and Thorn is instantaneous, but no matter each of them has decided that they have other plans with regards to whom they will marry. They won't let a little flirting and kissing get in the way of their plans after all.

I've never read any of James' Desparate Duchess series. I know that Lady X is the seventh book, but don't let that stop you from enjoying this story. James does a wonderful job of recapping past events so even new readers can understand where Thorn comes from. The book then moves on to focusing on Thorn and India's story.

I loved how Thorn and India played off one another. I esepcially loved the addition of the correspondence between then as India was readying his country home. In just a few sentences you are able to feel the chemistry from the page. Once the house is finished and Thorn's intended shows up with her mother for a little party, everything gets even more complicated.

Following a typical romance story progression, I still found the characters to be funny and engaging. I didn't want Thorn and India's story to end.

Three Weeks with Lady X by Eloisa James (Audio Edition)
Narrated by Susan Duerden
Desperate Duchesses by the Numbers, #1; Desperate Duchesses, #7

4.5 stars - As I have mentioned before, I love it when there are letters between the hero and heroine. Thorn and Xenobia had wonderful banter in theirs, and I laughed aloud often. The couple’s chemistry together was good and they had many a heated argument which was truly amplified by the narrator's wonderful performance. I felt the epilogue was perfect. I am hoping Rose has a story as I would love to read her happily ever after.

My only negative was that I really disliked the nickname of Lala.. drove me bonkers throughout the whole story. Other than that I enjoyed this book quite a bit!

Susan Duerden did a fantastic job as narrator. She remains high on my list of favourite narrators!

Original review posted at: [...]

There's an air of nostalgia in the world of romance lately where I've noticed some authors revisiting their past series and characters -- and I love it!

In Three Weeks with Lady X, Eloisa James returns to her much beloved Desperate Duchesses series and tells the story of one of the Duke of Villiers's bastards: Thorn Dautry and his "Lady X".

From their first meeting, there is so much intensity that crackles between him and India. I thought they were a well-matched pair: both are self-made, very professional, and very driven, but there are also so many differences that separate the two:
1. The circumstance of their birth: Thorn is a bastard and India is the daughter of a marquess
2. The circumstance of their upbringing: Thorn had a generally happy life (from the age of 12) and India's whole life was filled with instability and uncertainty (and hunger) because her parents were flighty

Thorn and India have focused their entire lives to realise a dream: the perfect life. It is a bit ironic that India's job is to improve other people's homes and lives, but she has never directed her efforts on herself.

It was exhilarating to create order from chaos. She would renovate a room or two, turn the staffing upside down, and leave, knowing that the household would run like clockwork -- at least until the owners mucked it up again. Every house presented a different -- and fascinating -- challenge.
- loc 196

For Thorn, he already has the money, the friend, and the (grudging) acceptance of society -- but he believes that a titled wife and a country home would be the crowning glory to his life's work. He has the perfect lady in mind and the perfect country house purchased -- now he just needs India's services to tie everything together. Thorn doesn't count on being so interested in India, and being so exhilarated and excited by his encounters with her -- and who wouldn't be?

Something about those furious blue eyes was giving him an erection. A very unwelcome erection, since he hadn't bothered to put on a coat when the ladies were announced. Damn it, there was a reason men wore coats, and his reason was getting bigger every moment.
- loc 638

* * *

"If you ever say anything like that to me again, I will walk out that door and never return," India stated.

There was a moment of silence, and then he smiled again. It was galling to recognise a drop of admiration in his eyes. "Balls," he said, "you've got them."
- loc 1339

India is just one of the most sparky heroines that I've ever encountered. She is a bundle of energy and creativity and fire -- I really did fall in love with her when I read her. I love how hard she works and how practical she is. I also love that India isn't an intellectual and never pretends to be -- not to say that India is dim, because she possesses a special kind of intelligence. Lala, Thorn's object of desire, is another woman who possesses a special aptitude that isn't appreciated by the people around her.

I love how the author used the love triangle theme in this story: Thorn wants Lala. India wants Lala for Thorn. Lala doesn't want Thorn. There was no contest because neither of the ladies actually wanted to gentleman and it made for an interesting dynamic how India tried to stay out of Thorn and Lala's way -- and, in the end, it was Lala who removed herself from the equation. It was nice to read Lala's thoughts and feelings about herself and society. It was also painful to read such honesty from her. From the outside, she seemed the perfect debutante -- but, on the inside, she loathed the attention and the "games" --

There is a wonderful reflection on "The grass is always greener" idiom as Thorn reveals his "jealousy" over India's pristine bloodlines and how India envies Lala's joyfulness. It is a reminder how we all have our burdens and concerns and histories -- and it is an invitation to look closer and to peer deeper. The danger of taking things at face value is seen in Lady Rainsford, Lala's mother. She is a shallow and vain woman who is too self-centered and self-serving -- poor Lala was so stifled by her mother, so I'm glad that she was able to get out from under her mother's imperious shadows.

Throughout the fuss over the tea tray, Lala told herself that she was not going to sit like a stone, without opening her mouth. She was going to be witty. She had rehearsed some clever things to say, and she had asked her maid to read aloud the Morning Post. If the conversation lagged, she planned to say -- brightly -- "Isn't it marvellous that those terrible mutinies in the Royal Navy were put down quickly?"
- loc 1486

As I write this, I realise now that there are a lot of characters in this novel and all of them have very interesting stories: Rose, Vander, Lala, Lady Adelaide, Eleanor and Villiers -- normally, too many characters would weigh down and muddle a story, but Eloisa James manages to highlight each character. I would love to read more about Vander and, even though James never mentions the rest of Villiers' motley brood, they sound like a very fascinating group of children. ^_^

One of the ways I know that I've read a really good book is that I ask the question: "What's next?" and I proceed to stalk check out the author's website, Facebook, and Twitter pages to find out. I did that with this book -- and I'm really, really excited to read Vander's story next. ;-)

Disclosure: I received this ARC from Edelweiss as part of the tour. Thank you to Avon, Eloisa James and Tasty Book Tours for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.

Lady Xenobia India is different from other ladies. She works hard and has put aside wanting a husband until now. She just wants to do one more job before she retires. When she meets Thorn Dautry that all changes. He awakens something in her she hasn't felt before. Thorn is rich and powerful but he is also the bastard son of a duke. He wants to settle down and marry and believes he has found the perfect woman to do that with. He first wants to a house u fit for a lady. Xenobia isn't what he expected and even if he has his eyes set on another lady, Xenobia temps him to maybe rethink who he wants to spend forever with.

I have to say Xenobia is one of the most fascinating historical females I have read about in a long time. I love everything about her from how she loves to work, why she feels the drive to work, how sweet and caring she can be, how passionate and so much more. She was simply wonderful to read about. Thorn may be a bastard but he is a successful one who is always thinking of ways to come up with new stuff. He is very smart, sexy and he has a past that makes you see why he has such a drive. He also can be very naughty and it is thrilling to me to see how far he will go.

Some times you may think you get tired of historical romance and they are all the same. Well I have to say that isn't the case with this book. Yes Xenobia is thinking of marriage but she isn't just sitting around waiting for a husband. She is out working and while it may be a scandal she loves her job. She has been emotional torn since she was a child and it has had it's effect on her in some ways. She wants to be the perfect lady in some ways but never really will. Thorn makes her say and do things she never thought she would. They become friends and that is something that usually doesn't happen in this time period. They tease each other and she really notices her sexuality after meeting him. Thorn may seem rough at times but he one my heart when Rose appears. I knew he was a wonderful guy at that point. Plus he is always trying to think of ways to keep people in jobs. He wants a sweet girl and even Xenobia thinks that is what he needs but I saw right away Xenobia is the perfect one for him. I love what it takes for both of them to see just what they have right in front of them. Thorn tries his best to heal her old wounds. If you love historical romance or have stepped away from it I plead with you to try this one. You will fall in love all over again with this genre.

Witty dialogue, sizzling romance, and passionate, exhilarating love scenes….it’s everything you’ve come to expect and love from an Eloisa James novel!

Saving estates, redecorating rooms, matching servants to correct positions, and making the elite shine….that’s where Lady Xenobia India St Clair’s talents lie. But as she grows older, she’s decided she needs to quit working and find a husband. But before she does, she’ll do one more house for her dear friend, the Duchess of Villiers. It seems her stepson has purchased an estate that is in desperate need of India’s touch. But she certainly doesn’t expect to find herself so attracted and drawn to the owner, Thorn Daughty. He’s not her type at all. First of all, he’s no gentleman, having been abandoned by his mother and left in the care of his father’s solicitor, he’s grown up tough, as a mudlark for a heartless man. He’s rough and brute and devilishly handsome. Second, he oozes male dominance and India wants a man who will love her but also let her run her own life. Thorn is the type of man who will wish to control every aspect of his wife’s life and expect to be obeyed, without question. But even knowing all this, she just can’t seem to stay away…..

Thorn Daughty has chosen his perfect bride. A biddable young lady who will raise his children with love and warmth and who will be perfectly happy to dwell at his newly purchased estate Starberry Court, while he attends to business in London. But why is he so attracted to the lovely yet saucy Lady Xenobia India? With a house party planned for just three weeks away, he employs India to rejuvenate his new estate and make it perfectly presentable for his future bride and harping in-laws. But as he begins to spend time with India, Thorn realizes she is beginning to invade his thoughts day and night. How will he be able to make it three weeks in her company without touching her? And will he truly be able to walk away and marry another after getting to know the incredible India?

Wow…this one is a keeper! I absolutely loved the risqué letters between Thorn and India towards the beginning of the novel. I very much enjoy a novel with fun, saucy letters. It really helps to move the plot along quickly without unnecessary details and descriptions. It also helps to focus on the important (and fun!) details. India’s stunning beauty and lively, intriguing personality was so likable that you, the reader will simply fall in love with her, just as everyone who came in contact with her in the novel did! The added element of Thorn, the man with a harsh background and jaded view on life, becoming guardian to the lovely and loquacious, young Rose, made the storyline so much more endearing. Reading along as Thorn and India stumble through learning how to love and recognize what it is, despite their different, yet similar childhoods, helps to draw the reader into the story as you desperately hope they realize what they have with each other. Using Thorn’s background as a mudlark at the end of the novel was genius, as it helped to show how even though Thorn had improved his station in life, he was still deeply rooted to his origins. I thoroughly enjoyed the fierce competition between Thorn and his best friend, Vander, for India’s attention towards the end of the novel. The way Thorn wrestles with being a gentleman (or not) shows his raw, masculine side and is just so yummy! I would love to read other novels about the Duke of Villiers offspring, so crossing my fingers hoping that might be in the works!

Haven’t read any of Eloisa James’ previous novels? No Problem! This story needs no prior background knowledge, just pick up a copy and start reading today!!

Rating: 5

Heat Rating: Hot

Reviewed by: AprilP

Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

Eloisa James is one of those authors who are hit or miss for me. I loved, loved, loved meeting Leopold Dautry, the Duke of Villiers in James’ Desperate Duchesses series and when I heard his illegitimate son, Tobias, was getting a book, I couldn’t resist the temptation to read it! Ah, THREE WEEKS WITH X was everything I wanted! If you’ve never read James’ Desperate Duchesses series it’s not necessary to do so in order to enjoy THREE WEEKS WITH X. There are no spoilers and you can even go back to read Leopold’s story, A DUKE OF HER OWN, and not miss anything since both are good standalones.

We have good characterization and James does a great job letting us spend an equal amount of time with both India and Thorn. India is in a unique position in that, she’s a daughter of a Marquess and yet one that is impoverished. Everyone assumes she’s had everything at her feet because of her family, but instead she’s had to make her own in the world. And yet, there are two sides to India. One that is cool and collected and very much the type of lady society expects and then there’s the side that only Thorn gets to know. I won’t go into details because I want you to discover this side of her. As for Thorn, oh boy! He may be one of my favorite James heroes to date! I adored him and the scars of his past. He has a bit of bad boy streak, but not to the extent of his father’s reputation. Thorn has had to struggle with being a bastard in a world where it did matter which side of the blanket you were born. We have a few secondary characters that play an important role including Thorn’s best friend Vander (I’m dying for his story!), a precocious ward, and a dimwit potential fiancée.

What I loved about THREE WEEKS? The banter between India and Thorn. James includes an exchange of letter writing between them and I have to say hands down this was my favorite part! I eagerly looked forward to their letters and unbeknownst to themselves, they did share aspects of their personality during these exchanges. I really enjoyed getting to know them and the sizzling attraction they had for each other was apparent. The real scene stealer was Villiers himself who makes an appearance. He knows where India and Thorn stand before they even do and I laughed with glee at his meddling.

Overall, THREE WEEKS WITH LADY X is just a feel good read! You’ll be sighing, laughing, and fall to pieces as your heartbreaks. While some of the plot is a bit predictable, James gives us a well flushed out story that made me want to restart the novel several times just so it wouldn’t end. I debated with the rating between a four and five and in the end went with a four based on the predictability of a few key scenes. While I understand the way these scenes play out are necessary to advance the plot and make things fall into place, it was easy to figure out the how and why.

If you’re a fan of historical romances or are looking to a new series or author, I highly recommend Eloisa James’ THREE WEEKS WITH LADY X! I’ve been holding out on reading Villiers story (because he’s just so precious to me that I don’t want to be disappointed) and THREE WEEKS made me want to spend more time with him and reread the series from the beginning.

**This review appears on my blog**

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>My Synopsis:

Tobias 'Thorne' Dautry was looking for a woman who'd warm his bed, have and nurture his children, and was gently bred to counteract the unfortunate circumstances of his own birth. His children would not be treated with the disrespect that society had shown him. He thinks he's found the perfect woman to do just that-- Miss Laetitia Rainsford. He just needs to convince her parents, and he'll do whatever is necessary to gain her hand.

Lady Xenobia 'Lady X' India St. Clair wants to start a family and the thing that scares her the most about marriage is the fact another individual, her husband, would be in charge of every aspect of her life--what she could do, whom she could see, where she could go, etc. She is looking for a man who will let her be in charge and won't try to control her.

One letter, however, will put these two in each other's path and change everything:

"I know how much your are in demand, but I write with the faint hope that you are free. His Grace's eldest son, Tobias Dautry, has recently acquired a country estate just outside London called Starberry Court. It likely needs some refurbishing, although Tobais bought it with its contents intact. He is courting Miss Laetitia Rainsford and he wishes to ensure that the house is in suitable condition before he invites her parents to the country. Naturally, I told him that you were the only person I would trust in such an endeavor."

Lady X and Thorn will spend the next thee weeks in close proximity of one another at Straberry Court, a residence carrying the previous owner's taint from using it to entertain guests in a most inappropriate fashion (some would liken it to a house of ill repute which guests didn't have to pay for) and transform it into a suitable household for a wife and family.

Sometimes what one thinks they want is not always what they need.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>My Review:

This is the 7th book in the Desperate Duchesses series. It should be noted that this is not the first we've seen of Tobias. As a young street urchin, he was known as Juby and as such made an appearance in two of Eloisa's earlier novels--'The Duchess of Mine' and 'A Duke of Her Own'. While it's unnecessary to read any previous books in the Desperate Duchesses series, it might be enjoyable to see the before and after versions of Tobias side by side. I believe I've read both the books Tobias is mentioned in, but may have to read them again just for that sneak peek at how he was in younger years.

Lady Xenobia India St. Clair is in high demand not only by the men in society but by the women too. She has spent the past ten years building a career out of refurbishing and reordering the households of London's most elite with the help of her godmother, Lady Adelaide Swift. Over that time, she's received both indecent and respectable proposals from various male members of the ton. She's never been tempted to accept either type of offer. Goodness knows, once she marries, her husband would have total control over all she does and that is a scary endeavor. She'd learned a valuable lesson as a child when she had to rely on her parents for everything. They often forgot to do the little things--like feed her--and she never wishes to be that vulnerable ever again. The whole experience had left her with issues of trust. Now she's decided it's time to face her fears and settle down and start a family. She just needs to find the right man. A man who is malleable and easily manipulated. The one thing I love about Lady X is that she knows her own self worth and has managed to survive on her own terms since the age of 14 or 15 (double check) when her parents left her practically penniless.

Tobias Dautry comes from humble beginnings. He is the bastard son of a Duke and an Opera singer who'd both abandoned him early on in life. He lived a life on the streets for twelve years that very nearly killed him before his father decided to take an interest in his illegitimate offspring. He's grown into the type of man who likes to control all aspects of his life and everyone in it. Being as he's rich as Midas, he usually gets away with it.

While wise in many respects, Tobias' thoughts of women are that they are interchangeable, with the exception of his stepmother, whom he's grown very fond of and whom he feels they broke the mold after she was made. So his requirements for a wife are rather lax in that he only wants three things in a wife--someone who comes from a good family, someone whom he is attracted physically to, and most importantly someone who will never abandon her children as his mother did him. What I don't think he realizes is that he would like a love match like his father and stepmother have. To him, however, it seems like something out of his reach perhaps due to the lack of affection he received as a child. I think his mother's abandonment affected him more than he realizes and he doesn't have a good grasp on how to show his affection.

What I loved about these two is that both thought they knew exactly the kind of individual they wanted to marry, but were both wrong. I liked seeing these two get to know one another over the course of three weeks. They're first impressions of one another were not very high, but through correspondence and meetings they get to know each other in a way they probably wouldn't have otherwise. Each needs someone who will challenge as well as respect them. I enjoyed seeing Tobias realize a woman could do more than warm his bed, she can be someone he could confide in and have valid opinions worth considering. I admit at times I wondered what each was thinking as they did things which had me shaking my head, but in the end everything gets ironed out. Additionally, the grand gesture Tobias makes at the end while incredibly foolhardy was also incredibly romantic and for this reason I gave this book 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one scores a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

When it comes to historical reads my favorites are those that mesh witty dialogue and memorable characters with a storyline that makes you feel good. Eloisa James has done just that with this seventh book in her Desperate Duchesses series. From start to finish this fast-paced story will immerse you in its action, emotions, and characters to the point that you won't want it to end.

Thorn was born a bastard and many years later, though his father finally claimed him, the label's still with him. A childhood of surviving by his wits and fists have left him scarred inside and out with flashes of boyish vulnerability but left behind a brash and formidable man who oozes sexiness and cockiness. With smart business dealings having made him rich he now feels the need for a wife and kids and to do that he must become more of a gentleman with the first step turning his former bachelor pad into a more mature home that his "perfect" (but lees than smart) pseudo-fiancée will like.

Helping him achieve that goal is the surprisingly modern India, a no-nonsense strong-willed woman who's making her own way in the world by redesigning the ton's homes. Because of her flighty parents her childhood was one of financial hardships, so having her own wealth and the ability to make her own choices is imperative to her and show a hardhearted and serious-minded woman. There's another side to her though, a playful one that only comes out to play with Thorn.

That's why watching them work together is so delightful. Their entertaining verbal sparring and surprisingly similar pasts have them bonding quite quickly and through a series of back and forth messages their relationship flourishes into something sweetly romantic. These messages were my favorite part of the story as they showed Thorn and India's true selves and were dripping with sexual tension. From there things got even hotter and culminated in an immensely satisfying journey to HEA with just a few roadblocks thrown in.

Along the way we're treated to a wonderful cast of secondary characters, the most memorable being Thorn's ward Rose. This little girl was wise beyond her years but was endearing with flashes of a child-like demeanor. She's a delightful heroine in the making and I look forward to watching her grow up. There's also Thorn's noble friend Evander and India's aunt who's always there for her rounding out the compelling list of secondary characters. Seeing past characters too was like seeing old family and added an extra emotional layer to this story. With its humorous and witty dialogue and compelling main couple this story set itself apart from the other installments but still gave us an overall feeling of family. This series continues to delight, is one I highly recommend, and I look forward to what comes next!

Lady Xenobia India (a mouthful right) or better known as Lady X, fixes problems of the aristocracy. Left almost penniless by her free spirited parents, India travels to different estates in order to refurbish them to their former glories. Having worked for years, India is known for having that perfect eye for decorating while also earning her generous wages. Desperate to never return to her former life of scavenging for food and not having enough for basic necessities, India saves money where she cans and works independently, unlike many of the women of her time.

Thorn’s stepmother, Eleanor, knows of India’s abilities and hires her to refurbish Thorn’s country estate. The illegitimate son of a Duke, Thorn (also known as Tobias) is brash, hardheaded, independent and smart, more from necessity than anything else. Spending much of his young life as a destitute ruffian, Thorn is now a successful businessman searching for his future wife. With a long list of desirable qualities, Thorn thinks he knows the perfect candidate, but as with everything in life, things never go as planned. Little does he know, India, his new decorator, may very well fit the bill.

Eloisa James is one of my favorite authors. She writes smart books with clever characters and enticing stories. I stinkin’ love her. That said, Three Weeks with Lady X rocked my socks!

My favorite thing about James’ books is how smartly written they are. Excellent use of words, they just are intelligent books that tell are really well rounded story. Thorn and India are polar opposites. She’s prim, proper, and believes everything has its place. Thorn is wild, has a devil may care attitude, but is intelligent and runs his own empire despite being a bastard. Steamy scenes and a completely believable ending round out an almost perfect story.
James has strong character driven novels and this one is no exception. Featuring characters from A Duke of Her Own, its feels almost as if you are coming home. All of our favorite characters have fantastic cameos. I devoured Three Weeks with Lady X in a few short hours over a weekend and have already begun my rereading. Brava Ms. James, I can’t wait to see what comes next!

When Eloisa James is on, I love her wit and the intelligence her characters exude. When she's off, well, let's just say I wasn't able to finish her last book. Fortunately, she does a wonderful job with this book in bringing Thorn and India together with enough conflict to make the story interesting, but not so much as to make it ridiculous.

Some readers might recognize Thorn as the bastard son of the Duke of Villiers, who was introduced in a previous novel by James. You don't have to have read A Duke of My Own to understand his character or motivations, but I think that it would add to your enjoyment of this story and understanding of Thorn's character and sensibilities. I loved both his strength and vulnerability as a young boy, and I think James has developed him into a wonderful young man. He is ever aware of his social status and how and why he might not be accepted in some circles, but he doesn't brood on it or allow it to shape his life. I love the fact that he isn't intent on proving his worth, but is instead simply looking for a good marriage that will allow him to have children to love and contentment in his marriage. He is a strong character with a strong personality, but I wouldn't go so far as to call him an "alpha" hero because he doesn't feel the need to dominate the heroine. He loves her, but he doesn't feel the need to possess her in a psychological sense.

Lady Xenobia, called India, is not quite as strong a character, but she's still likable. She's intelligent and self-assured. I can't say that I loved her as a character (perfection is overrated), but I loved her interactions with Thorn and that HE loved her.

One of the things that I found particularly enjoyable about this story is that a good portion of the relationship between Thorn and India develops in a series of letters they exchange while she is working on refurbishing his country estate. It's simple, but romantic and funny, too.

A deep, lovely romance, Three Weeks with Lady X was a fantastic read. I totally loved this book! It was a truly enjoyable, romantic read.

India was a lovely heroine. She was fiercely independent, strong, determined to live her life on her own terms. Occasionally, that would translate to her being a bit of a shrew, which was annoying. But, overall, I really liked her.

Thorn was also wonderful. Because of how he lived his early years, he had a tough facade that made him be kind of an ass at times. And, blind to what was in front of him. But, he was also very sweet and heaven help the person that got in the way of what he wanted. I loved how sweet he was with Rose (his ward) and how adorable he was with India. I really liked him.

The romance was good. India and Thorn were perfect for each other, even though it took them a while to realize that and even longer to act on it. They were both very strong willed and they definitely met their match in each other. The chemistry between them was sizzling and their was plenty of steaminess, when they finally gave in. I thought they were a lovely couple.

The plot was fast paced and I was hooked the entire way through. I really enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was perfect.

Three Weeks with Lady X was a fantastic historical romance. I loved the emotional portrayal throughout the book. I felt every emotion that India and Thorn felt, from the sweet, to the heart-wrenching, and I thought it was brilliantly done. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful book. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll definitely want to read.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

I absolutely loved this book! I was already looking forward to Three Weeks with Lady X by Eloisa James, and it did not disappoint. This novel revisits the Desperate Duchess series with the "next" generation. Tobias Dautry, also known as Thorn, is the claimed bastard son, of the Duke of Villiers, a well-loved hero from earlier in the series. Thorn has made a place for himself in society, and wants children of his own. To this end, he finds a woman he deems perfect, who would cherish her children. His hurdle is convincing her social-concious mother to accept the match. Enter Lady Xenobia India St. Clair, daughter of a Marquess with an unconventional upbringing. Left without a dowry, India started "fixing" households when she was 15, making a career of design and household management fixes. Eleven years later, she is ready to find a husband and have a family of her own. As she is ready to retire, her friend Eleanor, Duchess of Villiers, asks her to help her stepson "fix" his newly acquired country estate and help him win over his prospective mother-in-law. Thus begins the tale of two wonderful people, destined to butt-heads, but become great friends because they are two of a kind. The interaction between the tow is fun, and their growing relationship is exciting to witness. They understand and respect each other, and this grows to love. The addition of Rose, as Thorn's ward, is a wonderful touch. She will be such fun to watch grow up.
With Thorn and India, Eloisa James has created two characters that are fun separately and amazing together. This book will sit at the top of my list of favorites.

I really liked this book! I loved the characters of the Duke of Villiers and his eventual Duchess in "A Duke of Her Own", an earlier book in this series and to read the story of his eldest son, Thorn, in this book was a treat. The Duke of Villiers and Thorn also appear as supporting characters in "This Duchess of Mine", so the reader can feel as if they have watched the transformation and growing up of this unlikely hero. Tobias Dautry, Thorn, is the former London street child and mudlark, the bastard son of an opera singer and an arrogant Duke who publicly gathered up all of his by-blows and raised them as a family. When grown up and very wealthy business owner Thorn decides to marry into the aristocracy, he chooses a beautiful, sweet, but not very smart young woman with an impoverished family. In order to be acceptable to her mother, he needs a country estate and he needs it renovated in a hurry.
Luckily, renovation is Lady Xenobia India St. Clair's specialty. As the daughter of neglectful parents, she learned young how to make order from chaos. When her parents died, leaving her nothing but a title, she turned her skills into a genteel business with the help of her godmother. Neither India nor Thorn count on the powerful attraction between them as they become friends. There are interesting secondary characters, plot twists and good writing. My attention was held until the end.
There are sexual scenes, some violence and some profanity. I have enjoyed all the books in the "Desperate Duchesses" series and recommend them. I would love to see a book about Thorn's friend, Lord Brody ( Vander), the future Duke of Pindar.
Heat factor hot.

Despite the glowing reviews, I've put off reading this book because I wasn't impressed with the previous books I've read by James. Luckily, I was able to check it out from the library. It's fantastic! I require logic and linear progression of events in order to enjoy a story, and based on the two other books by James which I've read, I picture James as a free spirited, lively person who approaches writing in a joyful though haphazard way. I could be totally wrong, but that's the impression I got. Anyway, there's absolutely nothing haphazard about this book! It's lovely, and the tone and feel actually reminds me of Loretta Chase's beloved Lord of Scoundrels.

India's an interesting and extremely appealing heroine, along the lines of Sophy in Heyer's The Grand Sophy. Her career as a decorator and life organizer to the wealthiest families felt original and was presented in a very convincing manner, with her godmother Adelaide by her side as a chaperone and companion. I love that India charges exorbitant fees to make sure her services are valued and she's treated with respect - so true! Thorn is a typical alpha-male hero, though his childhood spent as a mudlark is interesting and he puts this skill to use in the climax of the story. His protective and loving relationship with Rose and memories of his younger siblings are very endearing.

*** Spoiler *** I wish India and Thorn hadn't consummated their relationship prior to Thorn declaring himself. They mutually decide to have sex while Thorn declares he will not marry her and intends to marry Lala. Yuck! That is very hard for me to relate to - why would a woman give herself to a man who clearly and vocally prefers another person? Oh well, this is not an unusual plot device in Regency books, just one that I don't prefer to read. At least India didn't sit around lamenting her actions and was prepared to move on - I could admire her resolve and strength. *** End Spoiler ***

Overall outstanding book that I would read again. 4.5 stars, minus half star for what I stated in my spoiler.

Lady Xenobia India, daughter of a deceased Marquess, India to her friends and family, grew up with unusual parents and after losing them to a heartbreaking accident one night on an unexpected journey to London, she has done her best to carve a new and respectable image for herself even while she must work to keep herself in society. She must make a living to survive even though many members of the ton frown upon her career choice. India is an interior decorator, of sorts. She helps those who need a beautiful home to pave the way into society or to stay in with the ton. When a wealthy, handsome bastard son of a duke hires her to redo his less than stellar estate, to make him more acceptable to the parents of the young woman he has chosen to be his wife, she takes on the job with determination, and a promise to herself to find a husband for her own after this final job.

Thorn Dautry knows what it is to be on the outside looking in. As the bastard son of a duke, he wants what was deprived him as a youth diving for treasures in the muddy Thames, and kept at arm’s length even after he amassed a great fortune that could rival any member of the ton. Determined to have the beautiful Lady Laetitia Ransford as his wife, he knows he must impress her parents with his wealth since his birthright is more than lacking. Having purchased Starberry Court, the rundown estate of a notoriously scandalous earl, he knew it was going to have to be made respectable for his new bride and acceptable to her parents, especially her mother. Although highly recommended by his stepmother, Thorn reluctantly hires the beautiful and desirable yet brash and contradictory Lady Xenobia India, who he quickly applies the nickname, Lady X. Despite his efforts to resist her, his desire for her soon becomes as much a determination to deny as his need for acceptance by society.

India’s attraction to Thorn becomes a goal to overcome even as her determination to create the finest home ever for Thorn, his future wife, and eventually the family he desperately craves becomes her greatest accomplishment.

THREE WEEKS WITH LADY X by Eloisa James is her finest book in a very long time. I have to admit that I was once upon time a huge fan of Ms. James’s books and absorbed them, but I soon fell away as her stories began to feel forced and frankly, rather cookie cutter. THREE WEEKS WITH LADY X however, is the talent and storytelling ability that made me fall in love with Ms. James’s stories so many years ago. This story is incredible!

Ms. James has conjured an amazing story of heartache, hesitation to seek what is truly desired, and in the end, going against all that is proper to satisfy a lust for life and obtain a taste of love. Her characters banter back and forth with a feel of today’s email or text messaging, pulling innuendos from simple statements, and drawing a line in the sand that leads to putting everything on the line to win the heart of a true love.

If I say any more, I might give away too much so I’ll just say that I highly, highly recommend this amazing, naughty, society bucking historical trip though time to join Thorn and India in a passion that will rival the great lovers of history. As usual, Ms. James gets a little out of control with her point of view stability but the story is so exquisite, I can ignore that and keep floating on the wings of golden sparrows as they soar their way through an amazing love story.

***eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.

First off, I devoured Eloisa James's Three Weeks With Lady X in two days. I was thinking it was going to take me a few days, but I just couldn't put the book down. The only thing that was stopping me from finishing the book was this little thing called sleep.

Anyway, Three Weeks With Lady X actually reminded me a lot of A Duke of Her Own in someways. I guess it was bound to happen after all Thorn Dautry is similar to his father, the Duke of Villiers. When I started the book, I was racking my brain trying to figure out if Villiers had a son name Thorn. I mean he had a lot of children before he married Eleanor. Fortunately, Ms. James cleared that up for me. Thorn actually went by a different name in A Duke of Her Own, which happen to be Tobias. Thorn wasn't a big fan of his name, so he ended up changing it. Of course this cleared up my confusion.

Now Thorn is ready to settle down and he has selected Miss Rainsford. However, Miss Rainsford's mother is a high-stickler and would rather have her daughter married someone else who isn't a bastard by birth. Now Thorn hires Lady Xenobia India St. Claire to redecorate a home he has purchase to win over the future's bride's family. As India works on the home, they correspond and slowly build this comfortable friendship. India has to keep telling herself that Thorn intends to married another. Even at one point Thorn throws the idea of matching her up with his best friend after all he has his "perfect" match in Miss Rainsford.

Once the house party begins the story starts to parallel A Duke of Her Own, but if you haven't don't worry about. It was the things I found similar. For instance Thorn almost married the wrong girl, which his father almost did too. Both of them treated their future wives abhorrently and both women almost needed saving from another man until their intended came to their senses.

Unlike the other Desperate Duchess books I didn't have the need to offer up my gut throughout the whole book. Yes, Thorn and India have to overcome stubbornness and realize they are perfect for one another. Overall, I loved Three Weeks With Lady X, because the witty banter between India and Thorn. However, I love how Thorn and India's love affair parallels Villiers and Eleanor's. If you haven't read A Duke of Her Own you might want to see what similars you will find between Three Weeks With Lady X. Anyway, if you are looking for a superbly writing story, you might give Three Weeks With Lady X a go.

I had a little brain freeze entering into this book. I LOVED Duke of Villiars but I kind of forgot about Tobias. Plus I was confused about his name which he doesn't clarify until later on in the book. Tobias? Thorn? Son of a Duke, wait, what house are we in? That said, this was a fantastic book.

I adored Lady X, or India, as she is called by her friends. We are introduced to her as she is getting proposed (again) by some silly man (again!) and the way she is thinking about how to respond is a CRACKUP.

"She tried to summon up a perfect smile, kind but not encouraging. Though she wasn't positive that smile even existed....." "She composed her face to look old. Almost elderly."

India is constantly thinking about what she should do. What is best for the situation. You find out as the story goes on why she does that but she is a thoroughly likable person, very witty (as all of Miz James characters are!), and entertaining.

Later you meet Thorn, who has a very agreeable relationship with his best friend who he is helping out of a hard time. They are very close and it shows.

The story is moved forward through India helping Thorn prepare his home to be presented to his future intended. It is currently a disaster so she has a lot of work cut out for her. However, their relationship goes back and forth and is completely entertaining.

We are met with Rose, one of my favorite characters in the book, who is so spunky and adorable.

Thorn and India have sweet but hilarious (I want to say Emails!) letters going back and forth with a groom and you really get to know them and what is going on.

This book had one of the best first kisses in it. Quite fabulous.

Their is a very good plot twist (as there always is) and you have nothing but sympathy for the main characters, including Thorn's future intended! She is adorable and sympathetic. I did guess (early on) where the story would be heading but Miz James writes so well, it was fun to be taken on the ride.

The ending with the Duke of Villiars acting how he always is is hilarious. 4.5 stars!