My American Duchess by Eloisa James

My American Duchess (Desperate Duchesses)

by Eloisa James

1803. The arrogant Duke of Trent intends to marry a well-bred Englishwoman. The last woman he would ever consider marrying is the adventuresome Merry Pelford -- an American heiress who has infamously jilted two fiancés. But after one provocative encounter with the captivating Merry, Trent desires her more than any woman he has ever met. He is determined to have her as his wife, no matter what it takes. And Trent is a man who always gets what he wants. The problem is, Merry is already betrothed, and the former runaway bride has vowed to make it all the way to the altar. As honor clashes with irresistible passion, Trent realizes the stakes are higher than anyone could have imagined. In his battle to save Merry and win her heart, one thing becomes clear: All is fair in love and war.

Reviewed by Cocktails and Books on

4 of 5 stars

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This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books

I haven't read an Eloisa James book in a while, but MY AMERICAN DUCHESS reminded me of exactly why I fell in love with her books.

Merry was one of those heroine's I could connect with right away. I imagine if I found myself a wealthy Amerian heiress having a season in 19th century London, I could have been Merry; a woman with virtually no filter who manages to get herself into all sorts of trouble with her inability to navigate the ton and all their rules. It was easy to always be on Merry's side. To want someone to stand by her and let everyone else know that she was utterly perfect just the way she was. She got her white knight in the form of the Duke of Trent. And what a white knight he was.

Trent was likable from the very first meeting between him and Merry. He didn't talk down to her because she was American. He enjoyed her bit of information she liked to extol during conversations. And he found every reason to be in her company, even when he knew it was wrong. Even when he thought he couldn't have her, he still found ways to ensure she was happy. The more we knew of Trent, the harder it was not to fall for him just like Merry.

If you love historical romances, this is absolutely one that should be picked up. The author always manages to create such charming and engaging characters that are easy to love, secondary characters you love to hate and a storyline that sweeps you away to the overcast skies of London or the sweeping country estates of the aristocracy.

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  • 5 February, 2016: Reviewed