by Lenora Bell
Series: School for Dukes #1
Genres: Historical Romance
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Heat Level:
Wanted: Governess for duke's unruly children
Edgar Rochester, Duke of Banksford, is one of the wealthiest, most powerful men in England, but when it comes to raising twins alone, he knows he needs help. The only problem is the children have chased away half the governesses in London. Until the clever, bold, and far-too-enticing Miss Mari Perkins arrives.
Lost: One heart to an arrogant duke
Mari knows how to wrap even the most rebellious children around her finger. But their demanding, wickedly handsome father? He won't be quite so easy to control. And there's something else she can't seem to command. Her heart. The foolish thing beats so wildly every time the duke is near.
Found: A forbidden passion neither can deny
As his employee, Mari is strictly off-limits. But what if she's the one breaking all his rules? In the game of governess versus duke, how can Edgar maintain his defenses when the only thing he wants to do is let the tempting beauty win?
I tend to be an eclectic reader and often follow my moods. After several reviews from fellow bloggers, I began the School for Dukes series by Lenora Bell and dove headfirst into What a Difference a Duke Makes. I had the most splendid time with this hero and feisty heroine.
Coffee Dates with What A Difference a Duke Makes
- First Date: We meet Miss Mari Perkins at one of her lowest moments. She has been bamboozled and arrives late to the employment agency where she has been promised a governess position. Her tardiness makes her lose the position. Fearing homelessness, she overhears another governess who wants nothing more to do with the Duke of Banksford’s heathen children. Mari seizes that information and heads to the Duke’s home. While, she may not be qualified by the ton’s standards she is determined to have that post. From her steely attitude to her first encounter with the Duke, I knew I was in for a treat.
- Second Date: I loved how unconventional both Edgar, the Duke of Banksford and Mari were. From the onset they had terrific chemistry even if they vexed each other. Bell did a wonderful job of sharing their histories and those of the bastard twins Edgar is raising. The story had everything from meddling staff and siblings, to forbidden moments. Secondary stories surrounding Banksford’s inventions and business to Mari’s quest for regarding her parentage I found myself fully invested in the outcome. The twins, a boy, and a girl added interest and brought the couple together.
- Third Date: While Edgar struggled with the employer/staff relationship, the staff and his sister did not. I loved the character growth and inner turmoil. Outside forces provided the obstacles in this romance allowing me to delight in the developing romance. If you love your romances tied up in neat little bows, Bell delivers. While I felt some of it all click into place rather easily, I was more than happy to continue dancing.
A delightful romance from start to finish. I am looking forward to India’s story (Edgar’s sister), For the Duke’s Eyes Only. Look for my review mid-December.
You will want to find time to slip into What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell. It offers a delightful historical romance filled with swoons, humor and passion. #historicalromance #SchoolforDukes #ebook #print Share on X
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Jen
I’ve not read this author before and I love a good historical romance. I’ll keep it in mind. Thanks for the review!
Kimberly
Glad I could put it on your radar.
Debbie Haupt
This is a new to me author and I’m not really a fan of historical romances I’ve been wanting to dive back in because fellow bloggers like you have been loving the new ones. I love the unruly heathen twin thing too. Maybe I’ll make the plunge with this one. Thanks Kim
Kimberly
These were fun Debbie.
sjhigbee
I love the sound of this one – it seems great fun, Kimberly:)
Kimberly
Thank you. I am sitting up as the Royal Princess is hogging my side of the bed. The Royal Prince was injured. I will share deets on Sunday.
sjhigbee
Oh no! Nothing serious, I hope! Take carex
Stefanie
Sounds like a fun read. I like how a commoner can become part of the ton. And the twins seem like a romping element.
Kimberly
Oh me too but there was a little twist.
Teresa Mary Rose
What a cute cover! This sounds like a fun historical romance! Great review!
Kimberly
It was. Thanks Teresa!
Angela Adams
I don’t read many historical romances. But, after reading this review, I did put this title on my list. Thanks for the post, and have a great weekend!
Kimberly
That is so cool. I love slipping into them every now and again.
Rowena
Great review, Kim. I enjoyed this one too and can’t wait to see what your thoughts on India’s book are. That was another fun one for me too.
Kimberly
I devoured both books in the same week Rowena. I am looking forward to book three!
Jonetta (Ejaygirl)
Well, you sold me! Just a delightful review, Kimberly. I’ve never heard of the author, either.
Kimberly
Sweet! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did 🙂
blodeuedd
It feels like I have read it, or is that I wanted to read it, but forgot, ack questions. SOunds good though!
Kimberly
Hehe…do you know I’ve been there done that. I have to check Goodreads to be sure.
sherry fundin
I don’t read much historical fiction, but I do love a HEA in any genre.
Kimberly
Nothing wrong with that.
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
I adore romances that are wrapped up nice and tidy, even though that is pretty much fantasy, lol! This girl likes HEA’s for her entertainment. 🙂 I do really enjoy historical romances and haven’t yet picked up anything by Bell. I’ll have to give this one a go. Wonderful review, Kimberly! 🙂
Kimberly
I am having fun with the series Rachel and yes it wouldn’t be romance without an HEA
Nadene
This sounds adorable. I haven’t read anything from this genre in the longest while.
Kimberly
I have read very few romances this year Nadene, but this was fun.
Melliane
Oh a nice romance, what more can we ask for? It’s been a while since I haven’t read a HR book
Kimberly
I love to pick them up now and again 🙂
RR
This is a good, detailed review and the book sounds interesting too. Thanks for introducing me to this book!
Kimberly
It is a fun series and I loved the feisty heroine.