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A review by landragraf
What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell
3.0
As posted on Smitten By Books
3.5 Stars
Mary Poppins meets Jane Eyre equals a hero to swoon for and a heroine who’s got way more than a spoonful of sugar.
Bell’s first book to her second series with Avon is filled with all some of the things that make this author’s books great – secrets, fire-filled heroines, and of course, Dukes! From Mari’s arrival in London, to her devious, but intelligent way of taking over as Edgar’s governess to his two children – this book starts on a whirlwind of activity and doesn’t let up.
I easily kept turning pages, anxious to watch the growing sexual tension between the duke and the governess as well as seeing how Mari would quell the rebellious nature of the duke’s twins, Michel and Adele. There are interesting historical elements as well involving antiquities, and steam powered engines. What made this story super rich are the characters themselves and the slow burn of Mari and Edgar falling for one another.
I also love all the little Easter eggs from Mary Poppins and Jane Eyre, and what made them perfect is they fit the characters so well. Not to mention a certain female sister reminds me very much of an adventuring swashbuckler who uses a whip. There are more Easter eggs where those came from. You’ll just have to jump right in and read to learn more.
My only hesitance on the book was the wrap felt a little too neat and tidy. Mainly with Mari’s external conflicts, everything was wrapped up in a nice bundle more forced than flowing. I was able to except it, but really hoped for something more than road less traveled than obvious.
Overall, this is one series I can’t wait to continue. For readers who love Sarah MacLean and Maya Rodale.
3.5 Stars
Mary Poppins meets Jane Eyre equals a hero to swoon for and a heroine who’s got way more than a spoonful of sugar.
Bell’s first book to her second series with Avon is filled with all some of the things that make this author’s books great – secrets, fire-filled heroines, and of course, Dukes! From Mari’s arrival in London, to her devious, but intelligent way of taking over as Edgar’s governess to his two children – this book starts on a whirlwind of activity and doesn’t let up.
I easily kept turning pages, anxious to watch the growing sexual tension between the duke and the governess as well as seeing how Mari would quell the rebellious nature of the duke’s twins, Michel and Adele. There are interesting historical elements as well involving antiquities, and steam powered engines. What made this story super rich are the characters themselves and the slow burn of Mari and Edgar falling for one another.
I also love all the little Easter eggs from Mary Poppins and Jane Eyre, and what made them perfect is they fit the characters so well. Not to mention a certain female sister reminds me very much of an adventuring swashbuckler who uses a whip. There are more Easter eggs where those came from. You’ll just have to jump right in and read to learn more.
My only hesitance on the book was the wrap felt a little too neat and tidy. Mainly with Mari’s external conflicts, everything was wrapped up in a nice bundle more forced than flowing. I was able to except it, but really hoped for something more than road less traveled than obvious.
Overall, this is one series I can’t wait to continue. For readers who love Sarah MacLean and Maya Rodale.