The Governess Teaches A Duke

by Steffy Smith

Can Miss Maribel teach an insufferable Duke?

Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale was exasperated. Widowed and raising his young daughter Clara alone, he could not comprehend the rate at which he was hiring governess’s. He was a Duke, a man of import. Days filled with pressing engagements of both business and pleasure. He wanted a governess that was resilient, stern and learned in that order.

Miss Maribel Lewisham was confident when the Duke of Avondale advised her of these requirements that she met them all. The older sister of five brothers covered off her mettle and her middle class upbringing ensured her capabilities. It was this fortitude that allowed Miss Maribel to grind her teeth—the problem with the Duke was not her now charge but his own hubris.

Toe to toe these foes will go. Opposing sides at every turn. What they both failed to anticipate was their bickering to ignite a flaming pyre of desire. Will they be able to refrain from submitting to burning temptation? Or do they dare cross societal boundaries?

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Romance, Regency

117 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 7, 2025

About the author

Inspired by my dreams and fantasies, I write stories across the eras combining my love of history + happily ever afters. My furbaby Ariel has been by my side every step of this indie journey, which is why she features on my shoulder. My writing is fuelled by Earl Grey, sporadic bouts of manic energy & keeping myself accountable with deadlines. Come with me on a journey as my stories begin to unfold and step back into a Georgian England or a Regency ball. Be swept away on a journey throughout the Scottish Highlands or whisked off to a majestic castle in medieval England. From Viking longboats to Western saloons - I will have a story for you xxx

Reviews

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the widowed Duke of Avondale, Thomas Denby advertises for a governess for his seven year old daughter Clara, the best applicant on paper is Miss Maribel Lewisham, Clara is not an easy child and they have been through a few governesses already so Thomas is going to interview her personally to see if she has what it takes to teach his daughter but what he finds is that he is attracted to her instantly and he cannot understand why but hire her he does.

Maribel is so excited to get this job, imagine her from a small working class family sister to five brothers owner of one cat Mr. Whiskers has been given her first position with a Duke, he appears a little grumpy and she is sure she can win Clara over in no time, but this, what ever it is that she feels for her older employer is very different and he seems to want more from her and she feels it hard to say no, she cannot control her feelings.

A short quick story about two opposites and the pull they have that neither saw coming but deny it they cannot, Maribel is a strong and lovely heroine who can easily teach the Duke a thing or two while Thomas in turn can teach Maribel the ways of love as he loses his heart to the beautiful Maribel. I did thoroughly enjoy this one and recommend to anyone romance reader who is looking for a short read with wonderful characters and a lovely HEA.

My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.

[Lindsay pinkcowlandreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

The widowed Duke of Avondale, Thomas is in need for another governance for his tempestuous daughter. After so many unsuccessful candidates, the Duke is going to have to take this matter into his own hands…

Miss Maribel has been teaching her unruly brothers since she could count, there’s no charge that can push her further than they did! That is until she meets her first official student, Clara, and her insufferable, father, the Duke!

But soon Mari has Clara sitting through lessons and working through ciphers, it just took the right motivation- but her father, Thomas is another thing all in of himself. He enjoys being taught way too much in between Thomas and Mari the lesson to go both ways!

I loved the tension that Sparks between Thomas and Mari from their first meeting. It’s so fun to see. It’s so fun to see a character like the Duke. Find someone who brings him down to a more human level and makes him want to be better. I always think there’s love and romance for everyone, it’s just a matter of finding the person that sparks your flame. I also really loved seeing Mary take her future and her self-respect in consideration with her choices. Being of a different class puts her on uneven ground in this relationship and she doesn’t forget that and takes care of her own needs.

The novella was absolutely delightful - I enjoyed seeing so much character growth in this compact steamy story!

Thanks to author Steffy Smith for my e-book review copy.

[Lynn_G · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Regency HEA with modern sensibilities prevailing, Maribel is hired as a governess to the young daughter of a duke whose wife dies in childbirth. She’s the latest in a long succession of governesses who quit the field in dismay at the “ungovernable” little Clara. Maribel, however, as a product of a household that included five brothers was undaunted and quickly gained Clara’s attention and admiration, especially upon the strategic introduction of a feline helper.

Thomas, the duke and father of Clara is attracted to Maribel and she to him, and it’s not long before they’re engaging in very spicy stolen moments. However, Mari is realistic about their differing stations in life, and she beats a hasty retreat before shame is wrought upon her family.

Can the duke see her as something more than a governess? Can the community accept her as well?

I received an advance reader copy from the author and Booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest review.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoroughly delightful and entertaining story. The Duke thought he was too old to learn from the young governess, but this proves that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!! I liked seeing the Duke soften and become more human as he spent more time with the governess. Is love more important than status?? I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale was exasperated. Widowed and raising his young daughter Clara alone, he could not comprehend the rate at which he was hiring governess’s. Miss Maribel Lewisham was pleased when the Duke of Avondale hired her. The sister of five brothers covered off her mettle and her middle class upbringing ensured her capabilities.
A quick but delightful romance, I loved Mari who quickly had Clara eating out of her hand, she also wasn’t afraid to speak her mind to Thomas. At the beginning of the book Thomas was arrogant & self-centred, I loved how Mari brought him down a peg or two. The chemistry between the couple sizzled. A well written entertaining novella
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Carmel Zumbo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Maribel Lewisham is ready to become a governess and earn her keep. Having helped raise her devilish twin brothers and being well educated she hoped to secure employment in child care and education. So when the Duke of Avondale seeks a teacher for his seven year old daughter she prepares to accepts the position with him taking her dear cat Mr Whiskers along to live in her new home. Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale was tired of the ineffective governesses who had come and gone and made no progress with his daughter Clara.Widowed and raising his young daughter alone, he was desperate. He was a Duke who needed someone to reign his daughter in and eventually prepare her for the marriage mart. Although the new staff member was younger and more comely than he expected he did not think he would become so quickly besotted. She is also attracted and yet repelled by this man who is handsome but difficult to deal with and he hates cats! So opposite to each other and yet a passion flairs between them blurring the lines of propriety. Read this wonderful tale of Maribel and Thomas and see how they get to their own HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HfbR · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of Maribel Lewisham and Thomas Denby, Duke of Avondale. Maribel takes a position as governess to the widowed duke’s young daughter but ends up doing more than just teaching ……..

This was the first book I’d read by this author, but I read a lot of this genre by many different authors and this novella just didn’t cut it for me. The plot was predictable, the timescale felt very rushed and the use of odd words in places didn’t help either. There were a few plot errors too, Mr Whiskers the cat started off as black and white but ended as a black cat, and that was probably the best bit of the book for me 🐈‍⬛

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica]

When love is uncompromising, nothing stands in its way. Not social or age gap, nor scandals and gossips. The cat and the daughter plays crucial roles in bringing about a happy ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ernielee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the love story of Thomas and Maribel. This is a feel good story and I enjoyed it very much. Maribel is sweet and strong and knows how to handle Thomas and Clara. Thomas is stern and rude and can’t believe Maribel’s boldness. They fall into attraction and then love. It has some heat and a HEA.

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 A quick and light read between an opinionated governess and a serious duke.

Maribel is well educated and from a middle class family that enjoys teaching others instead of marrying. Thomas is a widower Duke and has to put his busy social life on pause to find a new governess for his unruly daughter.

Maribel speaks her mind which led Thomas to think she’ll be the governess that actually sticks. But she doesn’t curb it around Thomas either and it was fun that this turned Thomas upside down.

Their relationship is built on instant lust, which isn’t my favorite trope, but there was some tension before they got their HEA. A triangle of tension between Thomas, Maribel, and her charge. And then also a third act breakup that was necessary and added to the story.

This is great for a quick afternoon read with instalust and a bit of spice.

A Governess Teaches a Duke is part of the multi-author Wayward Dukes series.

There are three open door encounters.

I received an advanced reader copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Melanie Purcell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maribel is a gem of a governess and everything Thomas needs in his life. He is a stereotypical aristocrat who spoils his daughter but avoids any emotional entanglement. I enjoyed the supporting cast especially; they add depth to the main characters. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well written story about the Wayward Dukes. Maribel has applied to a Duke who needs a governess. Receiving the letter that she is it come for an interview and plan to stay if she gets the job. She leaves her home taking along her cat, Mr. Whiskers. After arriving there she meets the Duke, Thomas, and his daughter, Clara. Maribel learns that Clara is very lonely , really missing her father and his companionship. As the lessons increase, both Clara and Maribel arrive at a peaceful time , only Thomas is having issues with Maribel. Mr. Whiskers helps along with that when he makes himself known. Thomas does not like cats but realizes that the cat has helped his daughter. Feelings and steam happen between them and everyone gets a happily ever after. Loved the storyline and the smile that you get from the characters. A real page turner. Would recommend to everyone.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas and Maribel . . .

Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale, is a widower who has gone through a number of governesses in an effort to find one capable of teaching his difficult daughter Clara. He finally hires Miss Maribel Lewisham as the latest governess to come up against his strong-willed daughter. Will she meet his high expectations? Thomas seems to be a man who seeks to be in control and is rather inflexible in general, so it doesn't take long for him to clash with Maribel, yet he cannot help but admire her strength and effectiveness in dealing with Clara. Thomas and Maribel begin to notice their own attraction and respect toward each other as well. Will their relationship develop into one of love? Will the three of them become a family?

[Natasha Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maribel is a genteel young lady with 5 brothers, two of whom, twin boys she helped raise. She is forthright

The Duke of Avonmore is a widower, whose daughter has become quite mischievous and has gone through several governesses.

She's hired and along with her cat Mr Whiskers wins over Clare the Duke's daughter.

The Duke becomes rather attracted to Clare's governess, who has developed a rapport with her.

There are kisses, which of course lead to the inevitable seduction. They've started sharing his bedroom at night.

The Duke freaks out about his feelings, also about the cat too.

He runs off to his best friend's London pied-a-terre and confesses everything.

I found it entertaining, an easy read that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea, biscuits and a rainy day.

It's an afternoon time waster and is all tied up with a bow.

Enjoy!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 34th book in the Wayward Dukes' Alliance series. Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale, and Miss Maribel Lewisham's story, proved to be an exceptionally engaging story. The narrative immediately captured my interest, focusing on the exasperated widowed Duke raising his young daughter Clara, and the arrival of Miss Lewisham as Clara's new governess. Their evolving story was compelling and held my attention completely from beginning to end. I found it to be a very well-written story with great characters and a thoroughly enjoyable storyline that culminates in a satisfying happy ending. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Governess Teaches a Duke by Steffy Smith is an enjoyable read. I read an ARC, and I noticed some typos that I hope are corrected before its release.

Thomas and Maribel’s story explores a relationship between individuals who have a difference in power and also an age gap. Clara was a highlight of the story for me. I also enjoyed the adventures of Mr. Whiskers. I did struggle with the pacing of the novella, but that may also be related to it being a novella. I felt like there were a couple areas where the story jumped forward without really seeing or feeling the reason for the jump.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4*
This is a very quick paced novella but an enjoyable romance escape. I enjoyed that Maribel was educated and comfortable with herself. The banter and tension between the Duke and Maribel was fun. Mr Whiskers-I am a fan. If you are looking for a quick steamy read with low angst and an HEA this is it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alexandra G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of course you can teach an old dog new tricks!

Maribel & Thomas
Stern, entitled, arrogant – just a few words to describe this haughty duke. He’s also a widower and a loving but absent father who can’t quite grasp how his angel wore out so many governesses. So much so, he will be hiring the next one himself.
She’s the bright and lively middle-class miss who honed her skill on her five rambunctious brothers. They prepared her well, and she’s more than ready for her first post as a duke’s governess – even if his daughter is a spoiled little hellion.

She’s less than impressed by His Grace; he’s only a man, and a flawed one at that! Why does the insufferable man not see all the girl wants is his attention?
He’s both vexed and intrigued by the impertinent chit. Defiance instead of deference in her eyes, sharp-tongued, direct – and apparently the reason his home now houses a cat!

This story is light, witty and rather predictable. It moves very quickly, the repartee is on point, and ire quickly transforms into fire. There’s an age-gap – he’s in his late thirties (I guess) and she’s only twenty – and it was very entertaining to see her put him in his place, challenge his beliefs, shake him up rather thoroughly. But so was seeing him unleash his charms on her! He may be old-school stuck-up, but there’s passion in him still – and he’s utterly defenceless against her tongue-lashings. And I loved that she’s not all prim and proper. No, she’s aroused, curious and unafraid to go and do a bit of discovering – got to taste that forbidden fruit 😉

Could it have been a full-fledged novel with depth, growth and a big emotional journey? Probably.
Was perfectly delightful as it was? Why yes, absolutely!
Short, steamy and humorous with a bit of fairytale magic sprinkled on top – the perfect distraction after a tough day at work!

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksirens for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.

This is a part of the Wayward Dukes' series, but can be read standalone (goodness knows I have not read all the 33 preceding stories!!!).

This is a rather sweet spicy historical romance with differing social class, age-gap, grumpy sunshine vibes. Thomas Denby, the Duke of Avondale is a widower, and single father to a quite rambunctious domineering young girl who has managed to run off more than her fair share of governesses. He is a duke, and needs a governess who can educate his daughter and keep her in line.

Miss Mirabel Lewisham is young, but determined and eager to prove herself as a teacher. She feels deeply that it is her calling. Before being hired by Avondale, she helped to raise and educate her spirited brothers, and is eager to try her hand with the duke's young daughter.

Though the intention is to hire a governess to take his daughter in hand, so he can escape back to his business and pleasures in London, Avondale finds himself delaying himself, as he finds himself unaccountably attracted to the young governess. Despite the disparity in their social classes, he finds himself fabricating situations to spend time alone with her, and they end up tumbling into a secret affair.

A rather fun, short, spicy story that ends in a happily ever after between a rather pompous arrogant aristocrat and a perky young middle class miss.

3.5 stars out of 5

[Shuvai · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Governess Teaches a Duke by Steffy Smith is a historical romance that proves love knows no class.

Maribel is hired as a governess by Thomas, the Duke of Avondale—a confirmed bachelor struggling to manage his spirited young daughter, Clara, who has driven away more than a few governesses. But Maribel’s gentle persistence begins to reach Clara’s heart… and Thomas’s as well.

As affection blossoms between Maribel and the duke, their growing bond becomes the subject of gossip and scandal. Unable to bear the scrutiny, Maribel flees—but Thomas follows, determined to win her back with a proposal that speaks to the depth of his love and the life he can’t imagine without her..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review..

[June Karen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. Thomas and Maribel a Duke who lost his wife in childbirth and a young governess who brings her experience of looking after her younger siblings together with a precocious child are the main characters in the plot. The author brings out each of their characters and cleverly guides the reader through understanding the problems that have framed their characters whilst maintaining interest in the story. If you like regency romances you will love this book. I found it unputdownable and highly recommend it I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Suze82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

lessons to be learned

Poor Clara, it must not be easy to live with such a righteous father. Fortunately Maribel is more than capable to cope with a male character too full of himself for his own good. It was highly amusing watching Thomas learn some important lessons against his will.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the storyline. The heroine is a young woman who has helped raise her younger brothers, but feels it is time to earn her own way so she applies to be governess to a duke’s daughter. The hero is a widow who starts out very firm and unyielding, but as the story progresses he unwinds. They are immediately attracted to each other, but from different social classes. I really enjoyed Mr. Whiskers who played a part in the outcome.

[Renee Ferritto · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Duke, a governess and a cat
A beautiful short story of a governess who meets her duke and learns of love and scandal.
Thomas, Duke of Avondale, needed yet another governess for his unruly 7 year old daughter, Clara. Maribel, middle class, governess is ready to guide Clara through her lessons and turn her into a lady. Thomas is enraptured with Maribel upon first sight. He can’t resist her curves or wit.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacie Irwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d say this is a 3.5 rounded to 4 stars, but I just couldn’t give it a full 4. It was short, simple, and low angst. I really did enjoy the story with a major class difference. There was an age gap too, but that was downplayed. The little girl and the cat were funny side characters. It’s certainly nice to read a sweet story of refreshing for a stuffy Duke and lowly but worthy employee getting elevated. Thomas and Mari had great chemistry together and it was fun to see them test the line of propriety.

I couldn’t go with a full 4 stars as the story felt a bit stilted at times and there were a few spelling and grammar errors that stuck out.

Overall, it was very enjoyable and I’d recommend it.

[Julie ambrose · Rating 3 out of 5]

A young innocent governess and a stern duke with a precocious daughter just seeking attention what can possibly happen .

An easy story to read and very predictable , the characters I found naive and a bit childlike as was this short story which I felt was a bit rushed .

However I am great full for the read thank you

[Marjorie Messerschmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A smart mouthed governess steps into a duke’s home to manage a little girl who loves but also gets her way with her father. The cat Mr. Whiskers plays a role in a delightful romance with a duke and a governess who wasn’t looking for romance. Funny scenes between our main characters and an enjoyable fast read.
I did receive an advance copy for an honest review.

[Carol P - H · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sultry page-turner novella. The self-confident Maribel loves learning and teaching. The duke Thomas is very class conscious, but finds himself making exceptions for his new governess who even commands the attention of his wayward daughter Clara. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This short love story was a quick fun read!

[Sven · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book addressed some common tropes but in a fun, interesting way. The Duke is challenged, the child is fine, and the heroine shakes up their world.

Funny, short, the dialogue was entertaining enough.

[Hadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The witty banter between the characters made this such a fun read. Fans of historical romance are sure to find plenty to love here.