Amy Rose Bennett kicks off the first book in her Parasol Academy series with The Nanny’s Handbook for Magic and Managing Difficult Dukes. It’s a sensual historical romance with a touch of romance. Other reviewers called it a combination of Mary Poppins and Bridgerton, and I think they’re right.

Mrs. Emmeline Chase, a widow, is a recent graduate of the Parasol Academy . She’s determined to get a job so she can help her father, who is in Newgate Prison because of debts incurred by her brother. But, on her way to her first interview, her teleportation goes wrong, and she ends up on the roof of the house belonging to Xavier Mason, Duke of St. Lawrence. The Duke has recently taken in three wards whose parents have died, and he’s gone through two nannies already. He may have had an unusual meeting with Mrs. Chase, but something about her interests him enough that he wants to interview her for the position of nanny.

It’s easy for Emmeline to enjoy tending to Mason’s three wards, Harry (Harriet), Barry (Bartholomew), and Gary (Gareth), and they appreciate her sense of adventure. The Duke now has time to work on his special project, designing a clock for the competition for London’s “King of Clocks”. Some of his relatives and others in society already think he’s mad, and believe his love of clocks proves it. He’s had to deal with cold family friends and acquaintances his entire life, but finds that Emmeline accepts him. She’s the first woman who has ever attracted him.

The Nanny’s Handbook for Magic and Managing Difficult Dukes is a sexy, romantic novel featuring two characters with problems. There’s a little mystery as someone is trying to sabotage the Duke of St. Lawrence’s clocks and house. Emmeline has to cope with her father and brother. She even has to use her Fae magic from the Parasol Academy to protect them when someone follows them. But, she’s not afraid to use her street fighting ability when necessary.

Both characters are intriguing. Emmeline tries to follow the Academy’s rules for a proper nanny, but it’s difficult when she’s attracted to her boss. Xavier Mason is obviously on the autism spectrum. He hates to be touched, hates for his clothes to be wet, can’t read people well. But, he’s much more at ease and comfortable with Emmeline, and finds himself falling in love with her.

A little magic. Quite a bit of sexual attraction. A spicy story. And, a group of people trying to put together a close found family. The Nanny’s Handbook for Magic and Managing Difficult Dukes is an appealing, enjoyable start to a new series.

Amy Rose Bennett’s website is https://amyrosebennett.com/

The Nanny’s Handbook for Magic and Managing Difficult Dukes by Amy Rose Bennett. Kensington, 2025. 392p.

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