Jen Turano

Meeting Her Match by Jen Turano had me smiling, smirking, laughing, and eagerly flipping pages. Camilla Pierpont, a matchmaker who’s sworn off love, crosses paths with the blunt and fascinating Owen Chesterfield after a near-abduction that turns her life upside down. What follows is an adventure brimming with humor, banter, and unexpected twists that kept my heart engaged from start to finish.

Camilla and Owen's interactions are a real highlight—sharp, witty, and downright delightful. show more Their chemistry builds naturally, with each exchange crackling with energy. The contrast between Camilla's polished sophistication and Owen's unfiltered honesty not only keeps things lively but also adds a layer of depth that makes their connection feel all the more rewarding. Throw in a meddling Meemaw, quirky townsfolk, and a pet pig that effortlessly steals the spotlight, and you’ve got a story bursting with charm.

Turano masterfully weaves in themes of healing and forgiveness without losing the lighthearted tone. Both Camilla and Owen are carrying the weight of past hurts and watching them slowly open their hearts to love again is not just touching—it’s uplifting. Their journey feels real, and their growth resonates in a way that left me both laughing and teary-eyed.

If you’re seeking a read that balances humor with genuine emotion, Meeting Her Match is an absolute delight. Jen Turano’s ability to craft a story that’s both fun and meaningful makes this a book I’ll be recommending to everyone I know—and re-reading for years to come.

I received a paperback copy of Meeting Her Match from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability. show less

“It wouldn’t be a normal evening for me if some manner of chaos didn’t occur.”

This quote pretty much sums up Adelaide’s life, as she tends to wreak havoc in her life with great regularity. Adelaide is definitely a unique and endearing character, and Gideon is a wonderful hero who helps Adelaide out of some of her most dangerous and crazy shenanigans. I loved the relationship and witty banter between these two main characters. Author Jen Turano is one of my favorite historical show more romance fiction writers, and one of the reasons is the witty humor and fun she pours into her stories. Another reason is the humorous way she pokes a little fun at high society in the Gilded Age.

As Adelaide’s friend Camilla and Gideon try to restore Adelaide’s reputation and standing in society, will they change her into someone she’s not meant to be? Adelaide isn’t sure she wants to change if it means she loses her compassion and concern for those less fortunate and less socially accepted.

“I’m relatively convinced one shouldn’t ignore God’s intentions or deviate from them simply to embrace the status quo.”

With plenty of chaos, action, a touch of mystery, and a good amount of sparks, To Spark a Match is a fun and humorous romp into Gilded Age society. Although it’s the second book in The Matchmakers series, it can easily be read alone. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to those who enjoy amusing and entertaining historical romance fiction. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own. show less

Oh how I lingered in the first chapter knowing this was going to be another classic Jen Turano laugh til it hurts story. The banter between Gabriella and Nicholas is pure entertainment. Could two people dislike each other more? Or do they secretly still have feelings for each other and don’t want to admit it? I knew this chapter defined the story and I was ready to catch a ride to an adventure that I will not forget. Having a lookout that faints hardly helps Gabriella in her mission. show more Nicholas arguing that whatever plan Gabriella schemes up is destined to fail , heightens the intensity of these two characters. So let’s see where we go on this trip.

I loved the fainting couch and laughed out loud as it seems to be “the thing” to have for women in distress. Of course there is also “vapors” that need to be on hand at all times. My oh my these ladies in the story are so over the top emotional that I couldn’t help snickering as the author uses her dynamic writing skills . I shuddered when one character said, “You’re almost twenty, Maryanne, and at such an advanced age, you need to marry this Season.” The talk around town is a big event coming up and every unattached female is vying for the attention of a certain man.

Now I must stop here to talk about my two favorite characters. They are none other than the witty and mischievous Gabriella and the dashing Nicholas. They once knew each other but something happened for Gabriella to well how should I put this? Oh yes she doesn’t want to ever see him again or does she? I loved the idea of them working together and discovering what they really mean to each other. We get a peek at their past and I liked how the author showed us pieces of what it was like as one lived on the streets while the other was taken in and well cared for. Does Gabriella hold any jealousy toward Nicholas because his life seemed to turn out better than hers?

The story is filled with excitement as Gabriella finds herself using her “street smarts” to help solve a mystery. I loved the idea of a lady inquiry agency and how so many women were in need of the service. There are a few minor characters in the story that almost steal the show. Their questionable traits are fun to witness as one faints at the drop of a hat, and others who don’t seem to be able to drive a carriage without causing chaos. There is much to endure in this story and I can’t overlook the moments when Nicholas and Gabriella let down their guard and draw close to one anther.

I can’t wait to see where the author takes us in the next installment of this series. Be sure you notice a certain dog and parrot in the story. They bring more comic moments to add to a story that shines with friendship, faith, intrigue and rekindling relationships.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. show less

Ever since I was introduced to Daphne in To Steal a Heart, I have been excited to read her story. I was not disappointed.
As someone who has also experienced writer’s block, I could identify with Daphne from the very first page. Soon, a kleptomaniac parrot and a pirate dog joined the cast and hurled me into a story that was by turns hilarious, madcap, poignant, and mysterious.
I was excited to see the return of many characters from the first novel. From a love-struck poodle (in the midst of show more an epic romance with the pirate dog) to the enigmatic heroine's friend who is never seen without her widow's weeds and veils, the supporting characters were each unique and entertaining.
Although funny, the novel touches on some serious topics and features a heroine trying to find her courage. Themes of unanswered prayers are examined. I also really appreciated that Daphne was a strong female character who used her intelligence and creativity to solve the mystery.
I highly recommend this book, and I can’t wait to read Eunice’s story. Seriously, why is she hiding behind those veils?
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own. show less