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WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DUKE MAKES – Lenora Bell England – 19th Century Finding a governess for his unruly children has turned into a nightmare for fairly new father Edgar Rochester, the Duke of Banksford. Surprised by the arrival of twins that his former mistress kept secret until her death, Edgar just wants peace to rule in his household as he works hard to build up his foundry and developing a reliable steam engine. The twins, however, have driven away every governess with their antics, and now they've run away yet again. Mari (rhymes with starry) Perkins has had a terrible day. Arriving in London for a promised position as a governess via Mrs. Trilby's Agency, she's had her trunk with all of her possessions stolen, and after arriving fifteen minutes late for her appointment, has been sent on her way with little money, and no job potential. However, on her way out of the building, another woman rushes in demanding another position since the one with the Duke of Banksford is impossible. Mari, who grew up in an orphanage and had to use her ingenuity to get by, immediately finds someone who knows where the Duke's house is. Edgar is stunned when a new governess shows up within hours of the other leaving. He is even more shocked to observe how lovely she is. The twins are returned by a constable, and Mari takes charge of the situation. The children quickly realize that this young woman is not like the rest of the governesses that they've run off. Edgar knows this, too. He agrees to a trial period, hoping he can control his attraction to Mari. WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DUKE MAKES is a tale of two people who are mutually attracted to one another, but owing to their circumstances, know each is off limits. Mari is trying to find answers to her background, and Edgar is immersed in his work. Trying to get Edgar to show more interest in his children, as well as dealing with the issues of the twins who miss their French nanny and former home, Mari has her work cut out for her. Not to mention trying to control her emotions when she is near the duke. Edgar needs to spend less time on his steam engine and more time being a father, and he must avoid becoming attached to the governess. A lovely story with great characters, WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DUKE MAKES is a great Springtime read. Jani Brooks |
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