I’m a Jen Turano fan and I enjoyed every minute I spent reading Caught by Surprise. I love that this authors novel is filled with fun, adventure, and a spiritual message that caught me by surprise through her quirky, delightful characters. This story, the main characters and supporting cast made for a hilariously captivating read I found myself smiling all the way through and bursting out in laughter often. I never knew what would happen next. I love how this author makes fun of and at the same time teaches readers about the silly rules of high society.

Once Temperance is reunited with Gilbert; her longtime childhood friend she remembers how feisty, independent and determined she used to be and decides to ditch this wall flower personality she adopted after the unexpected death of her parents. She wouldn’t be a wall flower anymore. Temperance becomes truly happy when she acts like her true self no matter what people around her think. Gilbert was delighted by this and smiled at the change in her. He admired her spontaneity and independence. He also liked how she embraced adventure even if he had to come to her rescue.

Temperance finds herself in several complex situations she’d never dreamed of being in the middle of. For instance, this story kicks off with Miss Temperance Flowerdew being kidnapped. Temperance learns some disturbing things about her family during this escapade. Which triggers Gilbert Cavendish, to demand she marry him to save her reputation. She refuses his proposal. There had to be another way, she’d only marry for love. So, Temperance sets off to find an acceptable solution.

Gilbert Cavendish, is a quiet sensible man who enjoys order, making lists and following rules. Everything that Temperance isn’t. Having grown up with Temperance he understands her outlandish ways. I like how these two characters grow and mature throughout the story as they both find their true selves and learn the meaning of true love. It’s more than feelings and status symbols. They also learn that together
they can take on danger and fight the attackers who are determined to take them down.

This author has witty dialogue and I adored being around these fun-loving friends. Gilbert goes with Temperance who heads off to confront her cousins. They repeatedly knocked on the door. No one answers. They creatively find a way inside. Temperance says to her cousin, “Where are the members of your staff? And why, If I’m not mistaken, are you leaving town?”

“It’s…ah…Thursday. Fanny and I always give the staff the day off on Thursday.”

“It’s Tuesday, and you never give all the staff time off at the same time.”

“Wayne narrowed his eyes on Temperance, “What’s happened to you? You seem far more assertive than I’ve ever known you to be, and…talkative. You never used to talk.”

Temperance shrugged. “I’ve come to the conclusion that the reserved, timid, and yes, practically mute attitude I embraced over the past few years was a direct result of the grief I was experiencing due to the loss of my parents.”…”I’ve now abandoned that attitude and have vowed to never become a victim again.”

I enjoyed this sweet romance of childhood friends who discover each other again, looking and feeling differently now that they are grown. There’s a sweet innocence about it, that captured my heart and made me smile until my face hurt.

Buckle up and get ready for some mind-blowing escapades that are crazy, and fun as the author introduces some lovable and not so loveable characters that do the unimaginable. Just when you think things couldn’t get any worse for Temperance they do. I highly recommend this for a wonderful, delightful read. It’s also a novel that would make an amazing book club pick as well. There is so much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher/NetGalley.. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

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TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
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Temperance Flowerdew is the main character. I think this story starts right off with a bang...she is mistakenly abducted, and finds herself waking up in...a coffin...yes, you heard right! After escaping from those bumbling kidnappers, she finds her friend Gilbert Cavendish. He tries numerous times to convince her they need to get married, which she keeps turning down.

I really don't want to give away too much of the story, but it is filled with humor. There is also a mystery afoot...she thought she knew why she was kidnapped and all of that, but then someone keeps trying to kill her, so it's rather mysterious as to just what exactly is going on.

I love the characters and how they relate to each other, and their little quirks that come out on these pages. I love their colorfulness and how real they are. Very down-to-earth, in spite of the fact that they have flowery names. (Which I think just add even more humor to the story) If you are looking for a light-hearted read, make sure and read this one. I forgot to say that it is the third in a series, but it can stand alone as well.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano is definitely a fun read, a historical romance incorporating mistaken identity, kidnapping, family interference and suspense. In fact we are kept guessing and never know quite what Temperance is going to get up to next! It is the third and last book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone.
I was given a free copy of the book by Bethany House publishers from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I loved this book. It's funny, it's engaging, and it's exactly what you expect from Jen Turano: a topsy-turvy adventure with dynamic and entertaining characters, especially the older set. The Huxleys' elderly butler Mr. Barclay is just adorable. He dotes on Temperance, indulging her with trips to paint all over New York City. And he's surprisingly sassy for a butler! Not to mention a bit of a matchmaker...

If you like historical fiction full of swoon-worthy romance and characters who make you laugh, Jen Turano and Caught by Surprise are right up your alley. It's on shelves now, so what are you waiting for? : )

I loved, loved this book. I am recuperating from surgery and staying with a friend. Every time I laughed out loud, which I did often. my friend would ask what I was reading. Miss Temperance Flowerdew is on her way to work when a stranger suddenly grabs her off the street and sends her on a Chicago-bound train before she can figure out what happened. When Mr. Gilbert Cavendish follows the trail to Chicago he discovers that the woman is his good friend Temperance and soon they're seen alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk. Gilbert is willing to propose marriage--except Temperance will have none of it. And thus begins the delightful story.

Temperance is a delightful character who does exactly what you do not expect. She is often impulsive and quirky and doing the unexpected. But those who know her love her. Gilbert makes list, charts and graphs before every decision. I have tried all through the book to grasp a picture of him, especially carrying a gun. I guess I didn't realize that was required in New York during Victorian times. Can two entirely different types of people ever come together? And what would it take to make it happen? You'll have to read Ms. Turano's book to find out if it can happen.

I have read many of Ms. Turano's books and enjoyed each and every one but I don't think I have laughed nearly as much as in this one. It is laugh out loud funny in parts but has a captivating story as the captors are revealed and the need for guns becomes apparent.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review. I was under no obligation to write a positive one.

Happily, amidst familiar faces from the “Apart from the Crowd” series, I excitedly joined the adventure of Caught by Surprise which kicked off immediately as Miss Temperance stages her great escape from a coffin! With Jen Turano’s usual light and witty writing, the story flies along with twists and turns in each chapter. The characters are delightful, I find this particular cast well-balanced, interesting and the sort with whom I’d like to have a cup of tea. Tastefully seasoned with Christian wisdom, the principles of love, forgiveness and persistence are beautifully illustrated. It’s fun, romantic and an all-round good book! Five out of five!

A fun read that flowed well. It started out with a great attention grabber- Temperance is kidnapped & nailed into a coffin. She handled it much better than I think I would have! I liked Temperance. She is positive, loyal, spontaneous, and just very likeable.
Gilbert, her lifelong friend, is quite the opposite of Temperance. But their friendship has held true over the years.
Overall I enjoyed the book. It *may* have been a little longer than necessary, but wasn't too bad. I didn't read the 1st 2 books in the series, and that might have been helpful. I feel like I missed out on knowing Temperance and Gilbert, and their growing relationship, better. 4 stars

One of the great things about a Jen Turano book is the smiles and laughs it elicits while reading. In Caught by Surprise, the third and final installment of the Apart from the Crowd series, Turano’s trademark humor is alive and well from the first pages to the last.

Temperance Flowerdew is a free spirit, independent woman with the heart on an artist. Gilbert Cavendish is a man who always has a plan…and a list..and sometimes a graph. Despite their childhood friendship, these two characters are complete opposites (and know the other’s tendencies well).

Mistaken identity, attempted murder, subterfuge from Temperance’s family, and plenty of unsolicited advice from Gilbert’s and Temperance’s friends make Caught by Surprise one of Turano’s best books yet.

In the midst of the humorous banter, the many matchmakers, and the hilarious attempts at romantic gestures, Temperance is grateful for the depths of her friendships as she discovers life’s joys and passions. There are some heart-tugging scenes in this book in between the laughter.

A friends-to-more, opposites-attract story that is a pure reading delight. If you have not yet had the pleasure of experiencing a book written by Turano, Caught by Surprise is proof positive of her God-given talent.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

I love reading anything by Jen Turano. No other author can make me laugh out loud like she does. I completely enjoy every moment I am lost in one of her books. Caught by Surprise took me on a fun and at times ridiculous journey and I couldn’t get enough. Temperance was a delight to get to know, and I wish I had a friend like her. The situations she constantly found her self in were unlike any other. This is the third book in the series, and I absolutely loved the other two as well. If you haven’t read them I can’t recommend them enough. That being said, you can also enjoy this book as a stand alone novel. This book follows Temperance and her childhood friend Gilbert as they try to discover who wants them gone for good.

Being kidnapped in broad daylight on the way to work was not how Temperance wanted to start her day. Not only was it painful, but it put a kink in her plans. Knowing she will be missed, she immediately starts planning her escape. Seeing Gilbert helps her state of mind and helps her return to the life she loves. Unfortunately danger seems to be following her everywhere, and Gilbert can’t help but want to protect her. Can they put their differences aside and discover who has Temperance in their sights? Or will they find something that is sure to change their lives forever?

I couldn’t put this book down. Turano just has a way with words that keeps me turning pages late into the night. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading Historical Romance. There is the perfect balance between romance, suspense, and comedy. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This is book three in Apart From the Crowd series, it is a stand alone book, however you will miss some great reading and lots of history of many of the characters in this book if you jump right into this one. You do not have to read previous books to understand what is going on in this one though.

The worst part about a series is waiting for the next one to come out..... I was so excited to finally get to read the story of Temperance. I love her character and the many paths her life has taken her. She has such a love for life and a quick tongue. The sparks between her and Gilbert are amazing. They are opposite in so many ways yet blend so well to be best of friends.

Jen Turano is one of my favorite historical, romance writers. I love the comedy, drama, mystery and spark in her writing. She makes it easy to follow along and get lost in her stories.

Caught By Surprise by Jen Turano is another absolutely delightful Christian historical offering. It is the third book in the Apart From The Crowd series but can be read as a stand-alone. I really enjoyed meeting up with familiar faces.
The book has an air of frivolity with much light hearted humor that has the reader smiling throughout. Botched attempts at kidnap are greeted with amusement by both the heroine, who is very much a modern miss, and the reader.
Women play a prominent role in the novel. Their outlook is philanthropic and forward thinking. A school is set up to improve the lot of young women. "You will attend school... because it'll give you a future." With education comes more choice and the possibility of breaking out of poverty.
Friendships begun in childhood continue. Marriage proposals abound, as do lists as to why marriage is such a good idea - much to the amusement of the characters and reader.
God is acknowledged to be working all things together for good - but we can only see this when we look backwards.
Grief is present in the novel. In our grief we may temporarily lose sight of God but it is important to find our way back to Him. "My relationship with God needs to be repaired... I'm ready to put the anger I've held for Him aside."
There is a wonderful mix of characters from gossiping aunts to jealous cousins to marriage arrangers to hearts of gold. The eclectic mix brings much amusement and joy to the reader.
I really loved Caught by Surprise. It warmed my heart and soul and amused my mind. I love all Jen Turano's books - always delightful and entertaining - perfect for any time of year.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

*** 4.5 stars***

Jen Turano is a master at creating stories with great plots, humor, eccentric characters, and romance. Oh my goodness, it was hard to put this book down!

From the moment that Temperance Flowerdew is kidnapped and awakens in a coffin, traveling by train, you know that you are in for a unique and amazing read. Temperance has a fantastic outlook on life and gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She is spontaneous, artistic, and a great friend.

Gilbert, her friend since childhood, is rigid, structured, and also a great friend. The two of them and their escapades kept me laughing. For two opposites, they really compliment each other.

If you love a book with a lot of humor, great message, mystery, romance, and eccentric characters.... pick this book up today! You may want to read the first two books in the series before this one. It shows the evolution of the characters and an amazing set of friends.

Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Chuckle, then roll on the floor and laugh. And then it's melt-your-heart tender - you really know where this character is coming from. You want to pray, give them a shoulder and cheer them on - both the girls and the guys. All are both strong and soft at the same time, on a faith filled journey. Hold your breath from laughter and hold your breath from danger. Oh and throw in a lot of romance. Wow another hit from Jen Turano! A fabulous continuation of the series and return to people you love. Hold your sides and get some oxygen.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher from the Baker Publishing Group, Bethany - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

#CaughtBySurprise #NetGalley

This book was so entertaining and sassy right from the beginning. This I believe was a number three and was also the first one that I had read from this author. While there were other characters from the other two books in this one, it did nothing to diminish the books story or make me feel like I was missing something. There was mystery, intrigue, danger, friendship, charity, and love. This is a Christian novel, and while I mostly like the historical aspect of these novels the best, there was just the right touch of God in this novel, I loved it. The characters were quite endearing, and the author really knew how to weave a story with real emotion. I cannot wait to read more from this author.

I truly enjoyed the first twenty-eight chapters of Temperance Flowerdew's story from her kidnapping to finding those responsible for the threats on her life, from the difficulties of living with cousins who did not want her to the pursuit of her hand in marriage by someone who wanted her very much. I had anticipated the events that occurred early in chapter twenty-nine, but had been hoping the story wouldn't take that trite route. Then at the end of the chapter I found myself rolling my eyes. Although I actually would have embraced the end of chapter twenty-nine without the beginning. So, I chose to hold onto the wonderfulness, if that's even a word, of the first twenty-eight chapters and rewrite the ending in my head. Jen Turano provided me with some pretty fun characters to do that with, placed them in a delightful setting, and gave me twenty-eight great chapters to become involved in their lives. I thank her for that, and hope she doesn't mind my parting ways over the last couple of chapters.

I thank NetGalley and Bethany House for providing me with a copy of Caught By Surprise in exchange for an honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

After running into her childhood friend Gilbert Cavendish, Temperance Flowerdew has decided to throw off the meek, quiet, wallflower persona she adopted after her parents' death and loss of their fortune forced her into the station of unwanted familial obligation in the household of her relations. She quickly finds it a good thing that she has returned to her spirited self, as she is abducted off the streets on New York, stuffed into a coffin in a Pullman car, and taken to Chicago. While she manages to free herself of her captors, that's only the beginning of her adventures. She soon crosses paths with Gilbert, who was sent to Chicago to rescue the damsel in distress--only to find that the damsel he thought he was finding, Temperance's cousin Clementine--isn't there and that Clementine herself may have had a hand in the abduction gone awry.
When a society matron sees Gilbert and Temperance together, straight-laced, rule-loving Gilbert knows they must do the proper thing and wed--and he finds himself becoming more and more interested in marrying his friend. Free-spirited Temperance, however, rejects him time and again, insisting that the gossip will blow over, and that they're not suited for each other.
Back in New York, besides trying to convince Temperance to accept his suit, Gilbert also finds himself trying to protect her and himself as they are embroiled in mystery and mayhem that go far beyond a kidnapping attempt. As Gilbert throws aside some of his lists and rules and stuffiness, and even as he uses them, Temperance comes to see that maybe their differences aren't that great--and maybe those differences actually balance each other out.

Okay, how can you not love a book that has such gems as these:
"I don't think anyone in their right mind would consider what you've gone about as being even remotely close to a marriage proposal."

"You think she'd change her mind about marrying me if I got her a puppy?"
"How did you get that solution out of what I just said?"

"One would have thought you'd become less contrary with age, not more."
"I spent three years not being contrary at all. I'm simply trying to make up for lost time."

"And that right there," Gilbert began, "is why I'm thankful my mother never had any other children, especially daughters. They seem to turn scary as they age."

"I'm going to see to it that you acquire the love of your life, and I'll hear no argument about that from you, if you please."

"You [...] sit around talking about unmentionables?"
He nodded. "We also talk about romantic gestures."
"You've apparently not picked up many pointers about those."

Seriously, there are SO many spots where you'll be laughing so hard (actually, if you're the type to snort with laugh, I would advise reading this book in complete isolation in order to prevent anyone think you're crazy). This book was just tons of fun to read. There's never a dull moment; it moves quickly and is highly entertaining. I liked seeing the mystery element unfold nearly as much as I liked the romance (which is saying something because I don't do mysteries). My one quibble is that the characters, while they all have their distinct quirks and traits, tended to sound alike sometimes. All in all, though, this was so much fun to read, and I'm eagerly looking forward to more of Jen Turano's books.
I recommend reading this series in order so you can get a proper introduction to all the characters. There is a delightful cast of characters, and you don't want to miss out on any of them.

I read an ARC from the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book was just as good and hilarious as the previous two books in this series. I always get such a good laugh out of these books, and they make rainy or lazy days so much more entertaining.

I was surprised that this book actually had quite a bit of mystery to it, and I couldn’t quite figure it out. I found this completely engrossing and I enjoyed curling up with it and getting lost in the story.

I love how well faith and God’s timing were threaded into the story. It wasn’t overdone; instead it added so much depth to the story. This is a perfect book for the beach, a rainy day, or when you are in the mood to laugh a lot.

*I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.*

What an absolutely delightful book! Filled from cover to cover with humor, adventure, mystery, and romance. I loved Temperance, I think she was my favorite of the wallflowers, although I loved the others when I was reading their stories. The conclusion was a bit far-fetched, but that really didn't matter. I just enjoyed the entire ride.
Honestly, I'm not a big historical romance fan, it takes a stellar book to catch my fancy and this one did the trick. Overall a fun read--I definitely recommend reading the series in order so you understand the cast of characters and how they fit into the overall tale.

This is the third book in the series. First is a novella, At Your Request. Then the first two books of the series are Behind the Scenes and Out of the Ordinary. This book wraps up the series in a neat little bow with an epilogue at the end, so if you’ve read the first two, you’ll get resolution for everyone. If you haven’t read the other two, you’ll still be able to read this one and not feel lost.

Temperance Flowerdew has been abducted. Trapped in a coffin, she discovers that her bumbling kidnappers have the wrong Flowerdew. Apparently, her cousin has taken it upon herself to trap Temperance’s good friend, Gilbert, into marriage. Now that Temperance and Gilbert have been thrown together again, and in such circumstances, Gilbert insists that they need to be married.

Gilbert doesn’t just want to marry Temperance to save her reputation. His feelings for her are growing, but she keeps insisting they aren’t suited and would kill each other within a few weeks if they married. Lives are in danger, and unraveling this mystery will involve not one, but two, families.

I liked this book. As usual, the characters are quirky and lovable. If I had to pick a favorite for this series, I’d have to say it was Out of the Ordinary. I just really loved the tale of Harrison and Gertrude. Back to this one, it’s a good tale and definitely worth reading. Good Book!

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

It is a well-known fact that when a Jen Turano book shows up on my kindle or in my mailbox I drop everything and hide away to read it and woe betide anyone who tries to take said book away from me. (Just kidding, mostly)

Oh, my goodness, Caught by Surprise is my new favorite! Temperance is one of my favorite characters in this series, she is determined to reclaim her former feisty self, and I think it is something I can relate to. As you get older, and life wears you down, you sometimes have to re-discover yourself and Temperance is on a quest to do just that, and of course, all sorts of things happen. A roller coaster ride would be boring compared to this adventure, and I could not put this book down. I was guessing all the way TO THE END. If you want pure entertainment set in this era, Jen Turano is your go-to author.

As for Gilbert, he quickly burrows his way into your heart, with his adorable lists.

This book has the perfect title, and you will see why when you read it. This book will have you laughing out loud, well, it had me doing so in the orthodontist office and I got some strange looks, but I did not care, I read on...giggling all the way.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NETGALLY, my opinions are my own