What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell

What a Difference a Duke Makes (School for Dukes, #1)

by Lenora Bell

'Message to my readers: You'll love Lenora Bell!' ELOISA JAMES
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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 . . .?
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Praise for Lenora Bell

'How the Duke was Won is exciting and emotional - evocative of the best of the genre. If you've been looking for a bold, new voice in historical romance, the search ends here. Lenora Bell is it!' Sarah MacLean

'Everything that made me first fall in love with historical romances while still being new and different. Trust me... you've been waiting for Lenora Bell' Sophie Jordan

'Hooked me from page one with its humour, emotion, and captivating characters. Lenora Bell is a true delight to read' Lorraine Heath

'Fresh, flirty, and fabulous! The new Belle of Historical Romance!' Kerrelyn Sparks

'Skillfully written . . . endearing . . . sexy' SmartBitchesTrashyBooks

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on

4 of 5 stars

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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.

This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 26 September, 2018: Finished reading
  • 26 September, 2018: Reviewed