'My American Duchess' by Eloisa James is a historical romance novel set in 1803 England. The story follows Merry Pelford, an American heiress who arrives in England with a reputation for breaking off engagements. Merry finds herself engaged for the third time, but her attraction to the Duke of Trent, her fiancé's twin brother, complicates things. The book explores themes of love, class differences, and societal expectations, with a mix of witty dialogue and romantic tension. Readers praise the character development, the entertaining plot, and the engaging writing style that keeps them hooked from start to finish.

Characters:

The characters are vibrant and complex, with Merry embodying strength and forthrightness, while Cedric and Trent represent contrasting attitudes toward love and responsibility.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines elegance and humor, characterized by witty dialogue, engaging prose, and vivid descriptions that enhance both character and plot.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around an American heiress, Merry, who must confront her past broken engagements and navigate romantic entanglements with two brothers, leading to themes of love and societal pressures.

Setting:

Set in early 19th century London, the narrative highlights cultural contrasts and society's expectations, significantly influencing character dynamics.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, beginning slowly to develop character backstories but increasing in intensity as emotional stakes rise, though some transitions can feel abrupt.

Merry stared down at his buttery curls, scarcely believing this was actually happening to her. She had to force back a nervous giggle when Cedric complimented her finger for its slenderness before sli...

Notes:

The book is set in London in 1803, during the Regency era.

The main character, Merry Pelford, is an American heiress looking for a husband after two broken engagements.

Merry meets Duke of Trent, the older brother of her fiancé, Cedric, at a ball where she accepts Cedric's proposal.

The story highlights the cultural differences between Americans and the British upper class of the time.

Merry has a forthright personality which both charms and surprises the English aristocracy.

The plot involves a love triangle between Merry, her fiancé Cedric, and the Duke of Trent.

The book features a significant comedic moment known as the 'pineapple incident.'

Trent seeks a practical marriage devoid of emotional entanglements, contrasting with Merry's romantic nature.

Merry's character development leads her to understand the difference between superficial feelings and true love.

Eloisa James blends humor and emotional depth in her storytelling, making it enjoyable for readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are themes of broken engagements and societal pressure, which may be triggering for some readers.

Has Romance?

The book contains a significant romantic storyline that is central to its plot.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

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.

Ratings (4)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)
It Was OK (1)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (1)
Did Not Finish (1)

2 comment(s)

katyana

Loved It

2 months

It was cute, but the ending was... well, I just didn't buy the resolution to the situation. But... okay. Still, it was fun.

twinklettoesss

Hated It

2 months

I DNFed at 100 pages I know I told my self I would give it a chance until 50% but I was soooo bored and nothing caught my attention. The characters were boring or insufferable. The only thing that even caught my interest was the puppy but I couldn’t even read to the point where I find out what happened to him.

Maybe one day I’ll pick it up again but for now it’s a no for me

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My American Duchess

Eloisa James