Review - - The Governess's Guide to Spells and Managing Misfit Marquesses

The Governess's Guide to Spells and Managing Misfit Marquesses

by Amy Rose Bennett

The Parasol Academy - Book 2

Publisher: Kensington Books

Release Date: March 31, 2026

Reviewed by PJ

 

Hermina Davenport can hardly believe the audacious exploit she is about to attempt. To protect an orphaned young viscount, the prim and proper governess feels she has no choice but to break the rules of the Parasol Academy Handbook! When the lad’s guardian, a ruthlessly ambitious explorer, ensorcelled by the evil Fae Queen, spirits him away on a dangerous North Pole expedition, Mina employs an invisibility spell to snatch him from the ship. But a magical misfire whisks Mina and her charge onto a different vessel, that of a ruggedly handsome Irishman—a strapping prizefighter from Dublin’s backstreets—and Mina finds she’s at sea in more ways than one . . .

Phineas O’Connell, Lord Kinsale, can no more explain the arrival of this English Rose than he can adapt to his newly-inherited title—though his disgruntled pet pug clearly has “thoughts” about the fair stowaway. But their enchanted encounter sparks an irresistible offer: Phinn enlists the polished Miss Davenport to transform this misfit marquess into a mannered gentleman ready for his seat in Parliament. No magic required, just enticingly intimate lessons in etiquette and elocution to smooth all his rough edges including a stammer. . .

But when enemies—both earthly and supernatural, past and present—threaten, a confrontation begins, where Mina’s nondescript umbrella is just one of her powerful weapons . . .

PJ's Thoughts:

Check your disbelief at the door and embrace the faery magic in this newest book from Amy Rose Bennett. 

I've lost track of the number of times I've watched Mary Poppins, which could be why I'm so thoroughly enjoying this new series from Bennett. I want to be friends with these graduates of The Parasol Academy who are tasked with protecting London's children. How could I not? They are kind, dedicated to their charges, pragmatic, and surprisingly adept at fending off villains. They also come equipped with intriguing spells and magic pockets. I do love a good pocket and, really, wouldn't a spell come in handy on occasion? I especially like the closet teleportation one, even if it does go wonky now and then, landing you in the master cabin of someone's ship. How else are you supposed to meet a hunky Irish marquess who just might end up being the love of your life? 

And let's talk about that newly-minted marquess. Say hello to Phinn, Lord Kinsale, my new book boyfriend, a tall, muscular, rugged, former boxer from the streets of Dublin. He's woefully ignorant of the ways of the Ton, doesn't know how to dance, and has a stammer. He's also kind, caring, dedicated to improving the lives of the poor, protective of those in his care, and smitten with his new governess. I say "his" because in addition to teaching the two young boys in his home, Mina is also teaching Phinn what he needs to know to effectively navigate society as well as deliver speeches in Parliament. Maybe "never been kissed" Mina would like a few lessons as well? I love the slow-burn chemistry between these two, how they slowly become friends while the growing yearning simmers beneath the surface. I love how gentle Phinn is once he realizes what he thought about Mina isn't actually what is truth, how he always verifies consent, even in the throes of his own desire. And, I love how he embraces all that she is without blinking an eye, ready to go to battle to keep his little family safe. 

If you're in the mood for a feel-good historical romance with humor, heart, a bit of adventure, slow-burn cross-class romance, an opinionated dog (who communicates with a certain governess), Fae magic, and a swoon-worthy happy ending, check out The Governess's Guide to Spells and Managing Misfit Marquesses. It's a delight.