Three Weeks With Lady X

Wow!  What a great story.  Here's a brief synopsis:  Lady Xenobi

Wow!  What a great story.  Here's a brief synopsis:  Lady Xenobia India St. Claire is the orphan daughter of a Marquess.  She possesses the uncanny ability to organize and decorate households for the nobility.  Along comes the bastard son of a Duke, Thorn Dautry who’s ready to marry and in desperate need of setting up a household for his future bride and family.  The renovation must be finished within three weeks.  India, as a favor to Thorn’s stepmother (Eleanor from A Duke of Her Own-Desperate Duchess series), accepts the assignment.  India is pure gold.  A strong, levelheaded heroine who knows what she wants, but not really certain how to get it.    

Eloisa James is a master at creating a wonderful story with great subtexts, and believable characters.  She creates interesting settings and keeps the plot moving without getting bogged down in the details.  It's nice to see an author continue a well loved series.  Reminds me of visiting home and making new friends. ; )  Even though this is part of the Desperate Duchess series, it's a stand alone story.  In my opinion, the best historical I've read all year.  I can't wait for the next in the series.     

7 out of 7 people found this review helpful.

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Lady Xenobia India (a mouthful right) or better known as L

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!

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

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Let me start by saying that Eloisa James was my gateway to the m

Let me start by saying that Eloisa James was my gateway to the more recent historical romances: I was a reader, but my library until recently was comprised of the titles that featured Fabio and his contemporaries as cover models, colloquially termed “Bodice Rippers”. But, my more recent reintroduction to the genre came from the pen of Ms. James, and I haven’t looked back since. 




Three Weeks with Lady X is an emotional ride, from the lush descriptions to setting scenes to characters that are developed to breathe and capture your attention.  Lady Xenobia India is the orphaned daughter of a Marquess.  Needing to find a way to support herself after her parent’s untimely death following a highly unconventional upbringing, India is a “fixer” and caters to the toniest of the ton: her decorating prowess is legend, and her godmother’s connections and constant companionship have kept India’s reputation intact.  




India is good at what she does; she has the eye for both furnishings and people, and is able to match settings and staff to the most difficult of clients. As a beautiful woman, she has learned to present herself deferentially to the woman of the house, and her inability to see just how attractive she is, even with men falling at her feet make her even more attractive. She is clever and honest, always thinking about her next move and with a strong sense of right and wrong.  While she knows that marriage is a must and she dearly wants children, the idea of love is both foreign and frightening to her as she watched her parent’s love exclude her. 




Thorn, or Tobias is one of several ‘wrong side of the blanket” children fathered by the Duke of Villiers.  His desire to have children requires a wife, yet the circumstances of his birth will dictate the level to which he can rise in society.  Having chosen a bride, and purchased a country estate, he needs the house ready for his new wife.  His step-mother suggests a friend, Lady X, to manage the design.  




From the first moment the sparks fly between the two: their attraction is obvious even as they snipe and snap at one another, trading barbs and quips with equal abandon.  As India is trying to do her best for Thorn and his potential bride, Thorn can’t quite seem to find a reason to stay away from her.  So unlike other women she challenges him and makes him think: a quality most definitely NOT what he wants in a wife. 




From beginning to end, this story was full of humor and heart: characters enter and are presented with flair, and the dialogue and descriptions place the reader right into the midst of the action.  Sensual scenes between Thorn and India add steam and heat to their attraction, and fuel both jealousy and regret from the characters in equal measure.  Despite his refusal to “be a gentleman” Thorn is far more honorable and less the mudlark he still identifies with so strongly. With several twists and inclusions of characters that both inform and derail their tentative romance, the story was a quick read that could have continued for several more pages.  I have not read the earlier books in this series, but this book is complete unto itself: characters are introduced with clear histories and backgrounds, and are presented in such a way as to encourage you to go back and read more.  And I most certainly will be.  




I received an eArc copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for a Tasty Book Tour. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. 

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

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5 Stars | Hot Steam Sublime storytelling and provocative, boldl

5 Stars | Hot Steam

Sublime storytelling and provocative, boldly drawn characters set this sharp and sensual romance apart, establishing Three Weeks with Lady X as one of this year’s elite must-read novels. Eloisa James’ exquisite writing treats the reader to an engaging and unforgettable tale- a savory mix of witty charm and insatiable fire that captivates and stirs the soul.

Gruff and luscious Thorn is a spectacular hero- complex, intelligent, unrefined and disarmingly sexy. He is the perfect match for the strong-willed and vivacious India. Their enchanting progression from prickly adversaries, to fragile and flirtatious friends, to fervent and inseparable hearts, is a remarkable and moving adventure. With playful correspondence and parring banter, Thorn and India delight and entertain. As ardent lovers- spellbound by feverish and unyielding desires- they simply mesmerize. Their blissful, white-hot encounters never failed to tempt, thrill and utterly satisfy.

I adored this unparalleled and intoxicating romance- tearing through the book, reading late into the night, riveted and relishing every last word.

Complimentary copy courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers LLC in exchange for an honest review.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

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A deep, lovely romance, Three Weeks with Lady X was a fantastic

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 free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

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Eloisa James at her very best! I'm betting on another RITA waiting for her at RWA/2014 in San Antonio this summer!

I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this book since
RWA/Atlanta in July, 2013!

I had the pleasure of sitting next to Eloisa at a wonderful luncheon she hosted during that conference. She was working on "Three Weeks with Lady X" at that time and shared her enthusiasm and excitement for that work in progress with all of her guests. She asked us to keep it on the down low, but I could not help thinking that there was magic in the making!

I have just finished the first four chapters of this brilliant new book; believe me when I say that the magic is here and fully realized! I cannot wait to finish this amazing story.

Well done Eloisa, "HOPING" for another RITA this year, but I think its already in the bag!

2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

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I really enjoyed this book. I think it is the best of the Desper

I really enjoyed this book. I think it is the best of the Desperate Duchesses series, and maybe the best book I've read by Eloisa James. There was a lot of humor, in addition to sizzling chemistry. I loved the witty banter between India and Thorn, especially the notes sent back and forth. While both India and Thorn had terrible experiences in their childhoods, it made them stronger and more determined. They were each original and outspoken individuals. However, they were also hesitant to love. It was quite a journey to get to that HEA! It was also fun seeing Villiers and Eleanor again.

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

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I loved and enjoyed reading the passionate, romantic, humorous,

I loved and enjoyed reading the passionate, romantic, humorous, historical fiction, Three Weeks with Lady X by the incredible writer Eloisa James. Read the highly recommended, beautifully written, captivating & intriguing love story of Thorn and India.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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LOVED this book and story! I loved all the characters. I fell in

LOVED this book and story! I loved all the characters. I fell in love the Thorn Dautry and of course Lady Xenobia. They were the very 
best pair. I love all of Eloisa James books,she never fails to keep me up all night reading her books.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Beautiful

Another amazing book

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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FANTASTIC BOOK!

There are some book you read and then the end comes. You close the book and say "that was a good or not so good book" and you go on to your next book. Three Weeks with Lady X is in neither of those categories....It is so wonderful, that you just WANT to read MORE!

India and Thorn's story is written in such a rich and intelligent way, that you get pulled right in to their story. They are like two magnets pulling to each other, neither going willingly.

Thorn wants someone sweet and biddable. A Stepford type of wife. India is very independent and can take care of herself, but she still wants someone to love and care for her. The dialogue between them is sometimes so humorous, that you can't help but laugh with them. At times it is heart wrenching and you cry for them.

When true feelings are revealed, Thorn REALLY proves his love for India in a very self-sacrificing way. You feel so much for their story, that as I said, the END leaves you wanting more.

GREAT JOB, Ms. ELOISA JAMES. Looking forward to your next book.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Another amazing book from Eloisa James! I truly loved the charac

Another amazing book from Eloisa James! I truly loved the characters and they way they interacted together. The story was beautifully written. I am never disappointed with her books. There was a great deal of humor that I always enjoy, but there was such a great deal of heart, as well. Thorn had many layers and it was great to see them evolve. And it was great to see India's personal growth as they finally came together. But I have to say that Rose, for me stole the book. I adored her and I hope to see more of her at some point! I was so pleased with this book and the best I've read all year.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Lady Xenobia or India in this case is a storm of efficiency havi

Lady Xenobia or India in this case is a storm of efficiency having evolved from a childhood of chaos. She is a strong and determined character but also very likable. Thorn for those of you who have not ever read one of Ms. James's books is the grown Tobias Daughtry who was a Mudlark before he was a business man and appeared in some of Ms. James's best books in her Duchess series. These two characters are perfectly written for each other. Thorn believes he has found his perfect bride, a "nice, sweet" natured woman who he doesn't know sat all but he believes will cause him no trouble and little disturbance in his well ordered life. India has a "profession" which is unheard of for a woman in the late 18th century . She organizes peoples homes and helps to make order out of disordered lives. She's is asked to help Thorn with this by his stepmother the Duchess of Villiers (a well loved character from A Duke of Her Own). India is hesitant at first since she has decided to retire from her profession and find a husband for herself but she then looks at this request as a final hurrah. However, after meeting Thorn the sparks fly and you know that there relationship will be filled with push and pull  as well as great passion. Ms. James doe not disappoint with this. Thorn is actually Tobias, the illegitimate son of the Duke of Villiers who is scooped up when the conscience of the Duke is pricked so that he will take on the care of his offspring.

What I thin I love most about this book is that although The original book/s that Tobias appeared in was written a number of years ago Ms. James captures Tobias's personality once again in his adult form as she did when he was just a young man. A leader of others, a protector for those you need protecting like he did for his siblings as they were gathered up and brought into his home. Thorn/Tobias squires a ward as easily onto his household as he would any other living thing in need. He doesn't realize how much India needs him or especially much he needs her until of course the climactic conclusion but that is all part of the journey and I read these books. I know the hero and heroine will find one another but it is the journey that keeps me coming back. Eloisa James is a master at creating the journey and I have read every one of her fiction books that I have can get my hands on. I will be honest in saying I have not "loved" every book but I do "love" this one. It is funny, energetic, and the journey will boost your spirits. You can read it alone or if you want the full experience start out with the Duchess series as The Duke himself evokes over the course of 6 books. Enjoy!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Loved it!

Great book. Really enjoyed it.

1 out of 2 people found this review helpful.

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I thought it was wonderful! There were quite a few times when I

I thought it was wonderful! There were quite a few times when I thought the story was wrapping up, only to realize that there was still quite a bit left, thank goodness, because I didn't want it to end. The transitions and twists into the next level of the story were amazing! There was always something exciting going on, and I was fooled quite a few times. I absolutely love when a story keeps me guessing, and easily holds my interest. One of my favorite things in this book is the letters. I loved everything that was written "between the lines" of the correspondence. I also enjoyed all the communication that was conveyed through the characters' body language. India and Thorn had remarkable chemistry that had me hooked right from their first meeting. They were both witty, and able to match each other with each response. I was laughing at their conversations as if I was actually there. I know the exact moment when I realized this was going to be one of my favorite books. During India and Thorn's first meeting, India gives Thorn a look because he looks bored by her godmother, and I believe that is where their battle began. Then, you add in little Rose, who was also wonderful. This book did not seem to have the typical boring characters. I loved them all because they were so unique, as well as their interactions. This book is perfect if you are looking for something witty and unbelievably romantic and exciting. I thought it was fantastic!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Eloisa James is by far my favorite writer and she definitely did

Eloisa James is by far my favorite writer and she definitely did not disappoint with Lady X. Such a fun read with great characters, wonderful humor, and a great storyline. I was definitely sad when this one ended because of how attached I became to the characters. I cannot wait for the next book!

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Mark

Yep I am.

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Candy

Hay anyone online

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enjoyable

I really liked this book. Eloisa really knows how to hold your interest when writing her books.

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Good storyline and great character development

I have just discovered Eloisa James and am glad I did! Enjoy Ms James' writing style very much.

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