My American Duchess audiobook

I simply adored this book! Wonderful, quirky, sweet, sexy, so memorable, and an American heroine...I'm in love with Eloisa James all over again! I love a pining hero, I love that instant attraction, that slow descent into fascination, the burn that leads to sizzling sex, and this book delivered! A heroine betrothed for the third time and determined to stick with it till the end, the hero the brother of the groom and falling harder and harder. She's a bit flighty and immature, he's a little too worldy. A match made in English heaven.

Rating Clarification: 4.5 Stars "She leaned closer. "If you were an elephant you would have a magnificent tusk." My first Eloisa James HR and I absolutely loved it! It was just the right combination of angst, humour, romance and a nice dose of sensuality. I rarely say this but I absolutely loved Merry, but most importantly I loved Trent, the duke.Merry and Trent meet at a ball, and while Trent tends to abhore everything about America he's immediately taken with Merry. Of course Merry has no idea that Trent is her fiance's twin brother (although there are similarities they don't look exactly alike) and Trent has no idea he is lusting after his future sister in law!Merry is engaged for the third time, and is convinced that its third time lucky and even of it weren't she has promised herself that she will make it to the alter this time. You see Merry has jilted her first two fiance's and because of this her reputation is not doing very well. So whatever her her feeling towards Cedric's brother they will have to be squashed. She had the ripest pair of lips he'd ever seen.He'd like to kiss her until they looked bee stung, the lips of woman who had been bedded hard and furiously, who had-Bloody hell. He ad to take hold of himself."Your Grace?" the lips asked. Being the sort of man that he is, Trent is used to getting what we wants but he loves his brother, regardless of the kind of man he is. So he has to endure the constant yearning whenever he is in Merry's presence and Merry has to fight her confusing emotions when she's around him.Anything else I say will be a spoiler so I'll stop but I absolutely loved these two together! I loved how Trent learned to love the facts that Merry would spontaneously drop during conversation. I loved how protective he was of her, and I love how I could feel his love and devotion in the words used by the author.I'll say this again I will be reading more of Eloisa James work because there is nothing like a well penned epilogue and this book met every expectation. I loved how it could go from sweet, sensual words to heart wrenching emotion within a couple of pages. Highly recommended! "My love for you... it's bigger than a river." She colored. "That sounds stupid.""No, it doesn't ." Trent kissed her again, almost compulsively, as if he couldn't stop. "Mine is deeper than a tanner's pit."She choked with laughter."Higher than a flax plant,"

HELLO ANGSTY AND FORBIDDEN ROMANCE. From the moment Trent saw Merry, I was so invested in their romance. Trent is immediately entranced by Merry and decides she would make his perfect wife. She's an American and spunky and doesn't adhere to England's strict standards. He soon learns, though, that his brother had proposed that day and they were now betrothed. Merry has already called off two engagements and is determined to see this third and finally one through. But the more she spends with her betrothed, who is obsessed with propriety and manners, the more she realizes she might like his brother... I loved everything about this book. I loved how much Merry tried to convince herself she loved her betrothed no matter how drawn to his brother she was. I loved how Trent just couldn't help himself from seeking out Merry and they just got along so well. And there were dogs! Merry was so refreshing as a heroine because she couldn't even get titles right when talking to anyone in the book. Trent liked that about her and it was so cute how they just clicked with each other. I do think they ended up getting together a tad bit too early, but there was an additional conflict added until they truly admitted their love for each other, so I didn't mind too much.

Another great read from Eloisa James! Loved Merry, Trent was dreamy and I've got another Eloisa James book for my keeper shelf! What's not to love?

Ya'llllll this book was hilarious (in a good way). I'm not sure if that's what was intended, but I found quite a few moments where I was laughing out loud. I had some technical issues with it, but overall a decent introduction to Eloisa James. 3.5 StarsAs a newbie to historical romance, My American Duchess was a newer experience to me. I've mostly read books that feature English characters whereas this book specifically focuses on an American heiress as she navigates English socialites. There were quite a few elements that I enjoyed about this book specifically it's humor, the conflict of our heroine having to choose between twin brothers, and the level of attraction that occurs between Merry and Trent. I'm not sure why and I'm sure I wasn't supposed to do this, but Cedric was a hoot. Don't get me wrong, he's a complete jerk to Merry in every way, but there were moments when he said things that were so ridiculous that I couldn't help but to laugh out loud. It showed his immaturity and his inability to maintain a relationship. One thing that is extremely interesting about this book is that it's not an HEA. I'm used to reading romance books where we have the opportunity to see the characters develop into having a relationship of sorts, but we never receive details about the nature of their relationship after they have gotten together. James created a romance novel where that is exactly what happens. While I won't discuss who Merry ends up marrying (this is probably clear from the context of the story), the reader has the opportunity to see how their relationship works after their union and it was interesting in some ways and others not so much. While I did appreciate this different perspective, it made the book too long. The previous conflict becomes resolved too quickly and then it felt like extra fluff added to the books for no apparent reason. There is a minor conflict at the end that leads to the hero confessing his fear of falling in love. While I thought that this definitely could have been included earlier and that the conflict was unnecessary, I actually understood where he was coming from. Merry had been engaged two time prior to this marriage so he was unsure whether her love was true or just a means of convenience. I just wish James would have created this conversation in a way that wouldn't have extended the length of the novel. This historical is hot! I was not expecting the level of steam that occurs in this novel. While I enjoyed the steams there were a few moments where I wished the hero would have stopped talking and just engaged in what he was physically doing to Merry. The more he talked the more awkward the scenes became. I could not help but laugh at the terms used to described human physical anatomy. There was everything from gooseberries to milky way. I was laughing so hard the entire time. Overall, I thought that this was a pretty decent historical. I'll definitely check out some more of James' works.

The kind of spirited heroine I like best, plus pages hot enough for the steam to rise from them.

Originally posted at Booklovers For LifeOh my god!!! This is my first Eloisa James book and I. Loved. It. It was sweet, funny, heart-warming – everything, from the wonderful story, to the incredible writing, to the intelligent characters, was brilliant. I love reading a good historical romance every once in a while, and My American Duchess turned out to be the perfect book for me – I adored every single thing about it!Merry Pelford, an American heiress, has broken off two engagements, but she’s sure third time’s the charm. As an American in London, even if she is an heiress, having two jilted fiancés doesn’t bode well for her marriage options, so she’s determined to follow through with her engagement and make it all the way to the altar, this time with Lord Cedric Allardyce.She was everything he’d ever wanted in a woman, and nothing he’d ever thought to find in a lady.After a balcony encounter filled with chemistry and wit, the sixth Duke of Trent has found the woman he wants to marry. The only problem is that the woman turns out to be Trent’s twin brother’s betrothed… Merry. As much as she fires up his blood, as much as he doesn’t like Cedric, Trent won’t betray his brother and steal his fiancé. But every time Trent sees Merry, he has to remind himself that he can’t want her. Then, when Cedric’s true colors make their appearance, Trent is finally free to have the woman he desires more than anything. But with his aversion to love, can a marriage between them last, or will he fall for his American duchess?With him, she wasn’t American, or a duchess, or even Merry.She was home.I adored the romance between Merry and Trent. It’s sweet, beautifully-written, and a delight to read. The chemistry sizzles between them, especially in the beginning of the book when it’s forbidden for anything to happen between them with Merry’s engagement to Cedric. I also loved that this book doesn’t end at a HEA proposal. Instead, Eloisa James gives us insight to Trent and Merry’s marriage. Merry is the total opposite of what Trent expected to find in a wife. She speaks her mind, doesn’t follow society rules, has a few adorable quirks, and definitely isn’t a shy wallflower. She’s a fantastic heroine I absolutely loved to read about. Trent himself is a dark, sexy, lovable hero who’s so sweet to Merry. It’s clear that he’s fallen for Merry through every word and action, even though he doesn’t believe love is a real, lasting thing. He’s seductive, passionate, and worshipping to his new wife, but can he accept love in their marriage?“You are my American duchess,” Trent said gruffly, his finger tracing the shape of her cheek. “You pour milk into tea at the wrong time, but you do everything else the right way. I love the way you speak. And I love what you say. I’ve never met another woman who is as fascinating.”This book charmed me beginning to end and I couldn’t put it down. I loved the witty banter between Merry and Trent and the steamy scenes between them set me on fire. If you love romance, you must read this book. I already know it’s going to go on my list of favorite books of the year!Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/1RS9nyKAmazon Hardcover: http://amzn.to/1JX03XmAmazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1lt58LuAudible: http://amzn.to/1lt5i5wLiked this review? Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more!

I read this incredible novel before it was available due to the good fortune of receiving an ARC (galley). Eloisa is my #1 favorite author because she is such a master of her craft. She tangles her readers up so sweetly in her web of characters, environment, and storyline. You don't realize until it is too late that the book is nearly over and you've been living vicariously through the lives of characters who (GASP) don't actually exist!I enjoyed the "race" of scenes, emotions, and personalities to the middle of the book. I always find delicious moments of tragic love, bittersweet despair within her books and am mollified when the second half buttons everything up in such an wonderfully imperfect, but always perfect to me, way. Yes, there will be an HEA, but only after the reader is convinced the hero's and/or heroine's heart will break beyond repair. Sometimes into tiny pieces similar to the reader' tears falling on the pages.It is my fondest desire that Eloisa James turns this into a new series and shows us new and glorious ways to break into the Ton.If you enjoy an experience, not "just a good read", then I suggest you invest yourself in Eloisa James. She has so many wonderful series, and although her novels can be read as standalone, you will find satisfaction in "glomming" her entire backlist (if you're new to her books). I know I did when I stumbled across her halfway through the Desperate Duchess series. Treat yourself to this "gift" post-Christmas and holiday/New Year season.

Loved this Reread for my Book Club: Rake Appreciation Society..This book makes me so happy and it is in my top reads my Eloisa for sure.I forgot how much I want Cedrics story... wish we got that one.5/5 stars

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance Summary  Merry Pelford, is an American Heiress and has come to England to find a man to marry. It is expected of her, but she is hoping to find a man that she can love. When  Lord Cedric, starts courting her, she finds herself intrigued and she begins to feel affection for him. When he proposes with flair and plenty of poetry, Merry believes that she does care for him. But on the eve of accepting Lord Cedric's proposal, she meets a man in the dark and out on the balcony. A man that is definitely an aristrocrat, has the arrogance and the appeal. But Merry finds herself drawn to his aura, his laugh and his inquisitive questions that seem more curious than anything else. The Duke of Trent, is content with his life and trying to keep his brother out of trouble. When he meets a mysterious american woman that makes him think of nights on silk sheets of passion and desire, he wants her. He is drawn to her honesty and openess. But when he learns that she is engaged to his brother Cedric, he is appalled that he has feelings of lust for his future sister in law. But through various events, he sees the true Merry and he wants her for his own. The Hero  The Duke of Trent, has always known his duties and responsibilities. Despite being a twin, he and his brother Cedric have always been at odds except when they were children. Trent grew up in a home, where his mother favored her attentions on his brother and couldn't be bothered to show any affection for him not even as a child. His father was a drunk and he has always stayed away from drinking. His parents were killed in an accident because his father was drinking. He sees his brother going the same way that his father did and is doing everyting in his power to keep him from killing himself from drinking. What I liked most about this hero, was pretty much everything. He doesn't believe in love, he feels its temporary and not worth the hassle or the pain. Considering how his mother rejected him, it was very understandable. He is practical, but isn't your average duke. He doesn't have his hair styled in the usual way, he likes to stay physically active ( I totally approve), and loves to help out the tenants with their farms and improve his estates. He is loyal and honorable and very stubborn when it comes to emotional sentiment. The Heroine  Merry Pelford, grew up in America, she was raised by her aunt and uncle. After having to jilt two previous men, her aunt and uncle thought it best to come to England, have a fresh start and get away from the gossip and find Merry a titled man. Merry isn't ashamed of her heritage, she is proud to be American, especially since coming to England. She finds her American ways to be a lot more simple and easier in many respects. What I really liked about Merry was her openess and honesty and boy is she smart and doesn't seek to hide her intelligence. I was worried that this heroine would seem a bit contemporary, but I didn't feel that at all which I was pretty glad about. I really enjoyed seeing how she balanced out who she is, with trying to conform with British society which isn't easy at all. I admired her tenacity and her easy going charm. She does try to go with the Ton, but in all honesty, she is way too intelligent to fit right in. She isn't ashamed of who she is, but she does attempt to make concessions which I admired the ways that she goes about it. Her character was fresh and I really liked her. Plot and Story Line  My American Duchess is the newest book from Eloisa James. And this author has always been a personal favorite of mine. She writes simply wonderful regency romances, and this one won me over from the first chapter. I was a bit anxious to read this one, because I noticed the rating and reviews weren't as high as I was expecting. So I was expecting a story that I would have difficulty read...but not I had a difficult time putting this down at times. I just wanted more of the Duke and his American lady. The first half of the book, we have the conflict of seeing the chemistry between them, however nothing can happen because Merry is engaged to the brother of our hero. We see how much that they try to deny what is happening between them. And at first they are successful. But circumstances lead them to discover true emotion with each other.What I enjoyed was seeing the fun interactions between Merry and the Duke and even the brother Cedric---he was quite a hoot! I had a ball of fun with his character. He was so funny at times, (I am not sure if the author meant him to be) but boy did I have fun with him and he entertained me so much. Even though technically you could see this as a love triangle trope---I never got that feeling from this story at all. Because quite frankly, Cedric just wants money and wealth and Merry is an heiress. He doesn't really see any other qualities to make her his wife other than that. I feel like this is more "forbidden romance" theme. We have two people that desire to be together but are unable to due to certain obligations. The second half of the book, we see these two try to balance out a new type of relationship. They have ended up married, and now have to work out through some issues. At first, there is plenty of sexy sensuality between them, and we see how well they do together on a physical level. But on an emotional level...it takes work. It isn't for them to find their HEA, and it does take a while for them to reach a point, where they are willing to be fully open and honest with each other. A couple of misunderstanding's do occur, but I didn't feel it detracted from the story...I felt like it only made the moment where they both admit their true feelings to each other, a more satisfying end and we are left with a bit of a teaser about the brother. I am hoping that Eloisa James will write his book so we can see his journey. The Cover  I do adore this cover. I loved both of the covers that were chosen. The first cover, (after reading this) I felt suits the heroine way more. It has a more garden like background, and she is more open and free in that cover. So I will admit I like the first cover because it suits the story best. But this cover, I do admire quite a bit....it's classy and elegant. I love her sparkling dress and the staircase behind her. And the stepback cover is simply gorgeous. Overall View  My American Duchess is a enjoyable and sensual regency romance that is like a breath of fresh air. An unrequited love story that will keep you laughing and entertained from beginning to end.

Truly delightful historical romance from Eloisa James. Midway through all the tension dissolves and it slows down a LOT. Other than that pacing issue I really loved this.

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.

Absolutely in Love!

4 starsThe witticism is on fire in this one, My American Duchess digs deep into its cultural clash setup, and repeatedly finding inspiring jabs at British stuffiness (such as the running gag of the court's unanimous love for quoting Shakespeare), as well as American's forwardness and lack of tact.The 'falling for the brother's betrothed' trope also unfolds in a slightly different cadence than I expected, which keeps me engaged without ever feeling like the plot is reverting to an expected historical romance template. Still, there remains some minor narrative hiccups, preventing My American Duchess from becoming a new favorite historical romance:**Minor spoiler ahead**- The sudden (and convenient) removal of the character Lord Cedric from the narrative, especially when he was about to become the 'villain' of the story. His departure felt at odd with his character arc up to that point (even though it did pave path for a nice surprise reveal in the following chapter).- The third act conflict centering on Trent's insistence of not willing to 'fall in love' with Merry was a bit of a whiplash, and too narrowly focused on technicality — then why was he actively pursuing her for the first 2/3 of the novel?- The plot went off on a tangent between the 70-80% mark, where nothing crucial happened and read like obvious padding to fatten the book.**Minor spoiler ends** The observational humor really bumps My American Duchess to the next level; even with the plot shortcomings (supposedly it was meant to be a novella, according to the author's website, which might explains the inconsistency), I still find it to be a thoroughly delightful read with ample memorable moments (the pineapple, lol!), a definite upgrade to my previous experience with this author's work (The Taming of the Duke).***The Rake Appreciation Society Book Club | December 2021 Selection***