I have always thought there’s nothing like a new book or series by this author. So , I’ll sat it again, this novel is another reason why I will read anything she writes.

Witty dialogue, fascinating characters and some not so nice characters.
This is a such a well written book and one that was hard to put down.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

Ready for a madcap, Gothic novel that reminds me of a classic Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn movie? It has overtones of Bringing Up Baby with goats and a goose running wild along with three somewhat trained ferrets. But the ghosts and walking suits of armor give this book a decidely Gothic flavor. When the author was on Book Talk to share about this novel, she talked about how she had the most fun with building in strong Gothic elements in the setting, and that definitely came through.

Add in a strong blend of characters and a fun, spunky heroine, and the book was a light read. The hero was a good one -- it felt like he could have used even more page time -- but the reasons for the hero and heroine to get together were clean even as it was unsure it would happen. Add in an over-the-top villain, and A Lesson in Propriety was all the fun I've come to expect when I pick up one of Jen Turano's books. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

**** BOOK REVIEW ****

Title: A Lesson in Propriety
Author: Jen Turano
Genre: Christian Historical Romance (Gilded Age)
Series: The Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies (#1)
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫/5 stars

Miss Drusilla Merriweather, who, after her father passed away and his solicitor makes off with all the family's money, and leaving her penniless, her fiancé dumps her, decides to use her only marketable skill, that of ladylike propriety and decorum, and open an academy for wayward young ladies in Chicago in an actual castle that was inherited to her by her eccentric aunt. Antics ensue when she, her sister Annaliese, her best friend Seraphina, and her mother Irma encounter situations in the castle, which is said to be haunted, with floating ghosts and walking suits of armor. Along comes Rhenick Whittenbecker, who initially arrives to inquire about the new owners of the property, but finds himself charmed, and challenged, by Drusilla's indominable spirit. Madcap adventure, mysteries to solve, and of course the romance between Drusilla and Rhenick (sigh!)

Jen Turano is not only one of my auto-reads authors, but she is my dear Alpha Phi sister. Her books are filled with such humor and mystery, as well as sweet romance. The dialogue was snappy and full of wit. And they always leave me waiting impatiently for the next book in the series.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy witty, slow-burn historical romances with strong-willed heroines, playful banter, and a dash of mystery involving quirky, supernatural elements.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is the first book in Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies. Taking place in Chicago during the Gilded Age, Drusilla Merriweather inherits a castle from her aunt and plans to open a finishing school for young ladies and leave behind a broken engagement, financial difficulties, and rebuild her life. She enlists architect Rhenick Wittenbecker to transform the castle into a school, but real estate developers and members of Chicago's underworld has other ideas. Turano delivers once again witty banter, humor, and a budding romance to create an enjoyable book. I did struggle with unusual names of characters and can't wait for the school to actually open. Turano has a good start , and I anticipate the next books in the series will be even better.

📢 Calling all romcom readers! 📢
📢 Attention, historical fiction fans! 📢

You have GOT to read Jen Turano's latest release, A Lesson in Propriety.

Part of what makes Jen's books so funny is that they talk about the direst of circumstances in everyday conversation.

For example:
"Out of blatant curiosity, though, what exactly would those extreme measures be that you mentioned?”
“Given that you’re adamant about not selling, I don’t think that it would be comforting for you if I were to expand on that.”
“I really must insist.”
“Well, if you insist—know that the most extreme measure would be finding yourself at the bottom of Lake Michigan without a way to get back to the surface.”
“That would be extreme."

If you love to laugh, love history, and love mysteries, Jen Turano is a MUST-read author!

Oh! Did I also mention that there's a Charity in this book??? She's a bumbling maid, but I'll take it!

Jen Turano is fantastic! I am always quick to recommend her books, including this one, to anyone who loves Christian historical romance with chemistry and humour, along with a bit of suspense. I loved the well developed storyline, the writing style, the believable and likeable characters, and enjoyed the Gilded Age setting. It was a charmingly witty story and felt like the perfect little escape to curl up with this book. The romance was well paced and just the sweetest! I'm excited to read the next book in the series and highly recommend!

Set in the Gilded Age in a mansion said to be haunted A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is a delightful mix of laughter provoking escapades, good manners, and a touch of romance.Drusilla is an independent character that takes her future into her own hands and I was there for it. With her helpful friends and her unsure mother she tackles the challenges of starting a school for young ladies in a haunted mansion with determination. Rheinick Wittenbecker and his family added to the humor, friendship, and romance of the story. The characters and the story had me laughing and left me wanting more. I can’t wait for the next book in the Merriwather Academy for Young Ladies series. I recommend this to readers that enjoy sweet historical romances with independent main characters.

A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is a charming and witty historical romance set in Gilded Age New York, where independent and unconventional Kit Tellington agrees to chaperone her cousin through high society—despite her disdain for its rigid expectations. When she crosses paths with the dashing and honorable Captain Rhett Avery, sparks fly and propriety is put to the test. With Turano’s trademark humor and heart, this delightful tale explores love, reputation, and the courage it takes to break the rules for the right reasons.

This story was a total delight! The humor had me grinning from the very first page—between the quirky animal companions and the hilariously timed mishaps, I was laughing out loud more than once. The banter was sharp, the pacing snappy, and the characters were an absolute joy. Kit is the kind of heroine you root for immediately—clever, bold, and unapologetically herself. And the romance? Sweet, swoony, and perfectly paced. Honestly, the cover doesn’t quite reflect just how fun and dynamic this book is—don’t let it fool you. This is one historical romp you won’t want to miss!

Jen Turano has a wonderful way of telling a story. She creates unique characters with personalities you either love instantly—or love to loathe, depending on their role.

This story was no different. The Merriweather women, along with their friend Seraphina, find themselves in Chicago, a booming city with its own group of “Four Hundred” society wannabes. Drusilla Merriweather is strong and independent, though recently jilted. Now, she’s determined to support her family—and her eccentric aunt’s haunted castle might just be the answer.

Of course, they’ll have to evict a few ghosts first.

The plot weaves humor, mystery, and romance together seamlessly. While the women work to open a finishing school, they’re also entangled in a mission to reclaim their family’s stolen fortune. I laughed out loud at some of the antics and loved the sweet connection growing between Drusilla and Rhenrick. He’s charming and kind—and honestly, just a sweetheart of a character.

I’m already looking forward to the next books in the series. There’s plenty of room for more stories, especially with Dru’s widowed mother. I’ll be preordering those as soon as I can!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.

Delightful, you'll read and enjoy every single word. Very lovable, funny, flawed and brilliant characters in a tight and thoroughly enjoyable story. You'll find yourself laughing out loud and shaking your head...after a while you'll be talking to them!

Druscilla is from a family in the New York Four Hundred (read that with great poise and your nose in the air). Their fortunes change after her father dies and they are forced to go and live in the property that her Aunt left to her. It's located in Chicago in a wealthy area of new money people (people who have earned it). Rhenick and his family live next door. Ever a gentleman, he stops when it looks like she needs help.

After all, the property is like a castle, complete with ravens, a ghost and goats inside.

But she has made up her mind that she will never rely on a man again and will always handle things herself. She is independent and doesn't even chinch her corset in all the way.

Strength of character keeps them going and as they persevere, things begin to be uncovered and they all draw together to discover what's really been happening with the castle and what became of their Aunt, as well as track down the man who embezzled their fortune. Hilarious as always! Will not disappoint. A fabulous start to a new series - yay!

I received this book free from the author and publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#ALessonInPropriety #NetGalley #JenTurano #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #BethanyHouse #ChristianHistoricalFicton #Romance

A Lesson in Propriety is the first in Jen Turano’s new Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series, and it’s a delightful blend of humor, heart, and a dash of mystery. While the opening moved a bit slowly, the story hits its stride once we arrive in Chicago and meet the swoon-worthy Rhenick Wittenbecker.
After a devastating financial scandal leaves Drusilla Merriweather and her family destitute—and jilted by her fiancé—she and her eccentric relatives take possession of a run-down Scottish castle inherited from Aunt Ottilie. Their bold plan? Open an academy for young ladies, teaching etiquette and propriety. But turning a haunted, crumbling estate into a respectable school is no small feat—especially with rumors of ghosts, lurking mobsters, and greedy land developers circling.
Enter Rhenick, a kind-hearted and honorable architect who quickly becomes their unexpected protector. Though Drusilla is fiercely independent and determined not to rely on any man again, Rhenick’s steady presence, heroic actions, and growing affection gradually break down her walls.
Turano creates a cast full of vibrant and memorable characters. Drusilla’s fierce resolve, Irma’s dramatic flair, nerdy Annaliese with her mischievous ferrets, and talented Seraphina each bring their own spark. I also adored Rhenick’s mom and sisters. The humorous chaos—raven attacks, ghostly mysteries, and unconventional animal companions—adds to the book’s charm.
Rhenick is a stand-out romantic hero, unwavering in his devotion, and his witty banter with Drusilla makes their relationship both sweet and satisfying. The light suspense surrounding the mafia subplot keeps the pace lively without overshadowing the romance.
With strong female leads, heartwarming romance, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, A Lesson in Propriety is a delightful historical rom-com. I’m already looking forward to the next book—hopefully Seraphina’s story!

Kissing
someone is trying to get them to leave the castle, shooting, kidnapping

This was REALLY a good book! It is the first in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series. SO amusing. If I was reading I was smiling - well more like smirking.

The book draws heavily upon dialogue. That would normally have me turning pages to skip ahead. BUT, not with this book. I love the chatty and wit filled conversations between characters. Druscilla’s response to unexpected happenings was brilliantly done with a spirited and creatively confident flare. Our leading lady is indeed awsomely extraordinary.

Pacing of this story is fast paced. Their life circumstances rolled from one ‘incident’ to another. Some outcomes were predictable but most everything had clever twists.

Historical details of the Gilded Age added richness without detracting from the mystery and romance that I was easily invested in. I am certainly looking forward to more books from this author.

My thanks to NetGalley for making this ARC available.

A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is the first entertaining tale in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series. I always look forward to reading Jen Turano’s stories because I know there will be great characters and plenty of humor. I like that Drusilla Merriweather is resilient and independent. Drusilla is certainly extremely knowledgeable about the rules of social propriety (she knows the correct etiquette for every social occasion-what to say, do, and how to act—she is walking etiquette book). Rhenick Wittenbecker is a good match for Drusilla. Of course, the road to happily ever after is a bumpy one, especially with the unusual and hilarious happening at the estate. I enjoyed the banter between Rhenick and Drusilla (I chuckled frequently). The message of being loved for who you are (the unique individual that you are) is very prevalent. I sat down one evening and read A Lesson in Propriety from beginning to end. I closed the book with a happy heart and a smile on my face.

As the first book in new series by Jen Turano, it was wonderful. It introduced the reader to a cast of characters that we can't wait to see in future books. With several mysteries afoot, this novel take the reader on a journey of discovery with a dramatic climax for some characters. With still some unresolved questions, the next novel will not disappoint.

A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano was a wonderful jump into her new series. The first couple of chapters in a tea room really do not show any propriety in any way. I love the heroine, Druscilla. Right away, Turano shows her strength and allows the circumstance that is affecting her current life to make her a strong heroine. Readers will enjoy that another one of Turano's heroine does not really care what society or a man thinks. As a result of this, funny things happen to the heroine. Funny items like a herd of goats, a duck, and a bunch of ravens. I really love the setting in a castle alongside the Lake Michigan. When Turano has the heroine and her family and friend come to the castle, it really wrapped me in the mysterious element, and I couldn't wait to learn more about the setting and what is going on there. Of course, there is some romance to the plot with a neighboring man. While the heroine is a strong-willed woman, she comes to learn that not all men are horrible and allows her heart to open to the possibility of marriage. Overall, A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is a rip-roaring fun of a novel in an abandoned castle. I honestly can't wait to continue this series and see how some of the unanswered questions are handled.

I received a complimentary copy of A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano through Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

About this book:

“With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves, by any means necessary.
Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within castle grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.”


Series: Book #1 in the “Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies”.


Spiritual Content- A Scripture is mentioned; Church going & enjoying the service; Mentions of church, church going, services, a reverend, hymns, & a Sunday school class; Mentions of blessings; A few mentions of statues of angels and cherubs; A couple mentions of God; A couple mentions of people swearing on a Bible to keep a secret; A mention of a godsent opportunity;
*Note: Religious phrases/exclamations are said: ‘heaven forbid’ once, ‘for heaven’s sake’ twice, and ‘good heavens’ is said nine times; Many talks about & many mentions of ghosts and a haunted place (many people believe that Drusilla’s aunt’s house is haunted by her ghost; Mentions of the reasoning behind this being because of hearing strange noises in the night, furniture rearranged, and messages written onto mirrors); Drusilla does not believe in ghosts and is not bothered by this rumor, but her mother is convinced that the ghost of her aunt will haunt her the most because they never cared for each other; *Spoiler* People are behind the “ghost” sightings *End of Spoilers*); A mention of “ghosts” in the afterlife apparently not being affected by screams by living people.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: five forms of ‘idiot’; Eye rolling; Being shot at, Being held at gun-point, Aiming guns and weapons at others, Shooting someone (in self-defense), Being attacked by ravens, Injuries, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of weapons, gunshots, shooting someone, & people being shot and aimed at with weapons (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a missing person & a couple possible murders and murderer; Mentions of deaths & grief; Mentions of an abduction/kidnapping; Mentions of criminals, members of the “criminal underworld” and crime bosses, crimes, & threats (including of harm and death through a potential drowning); Mentions of a man stealing Drusilla’s family’s money & embezzlement; Mentions of smuggling stolen goods and opium & smugglers; Mentions of arrests & jail/prisons; Mentions of fires; Mentions of fights/brawls, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & saloons/taverns; A few mentions of gambling; A couple mentions of eavesdropping; A mention of possibly corrupt police men;
*Note: Drusilla values how Rhenick respects and listen to her opinions and how he doesn’t think his opinion is superior only because of him being a man (unlike others she’s known); Drusilla also thinks about how Rhenick sees women as people and not as inferior beings that need to be spoken to as if “they were lacking in intelligence”; Mentions of insane asylums & some of the characters hoping a man is put into one (because of his delusions about a woman and unrequited love for her); Mentions of Drusilla’s sister, Annaliese, rescuing ferrets from a fur farm & being vocally against such things and women using real feathers in their hats; Mentions of dead rats & snakes brought as gifts form the ferrets to Drusilla and her family; A couple mentions of Drusilla’s father being disappointed when she was born because she was a girl & Drusilla striving to earn his praise; A couple mentions of books and authors (Jane Austen).


Sexual Content- Two hand kisses, an almost (semi-detailed) kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss & Staring at lips (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Talks about kisses/kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Butterflies, Nearness, Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes & Winks; Noticing & Staring (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of a man who is in love with a married woman (he loved her prior to her marriage to another man and continued to love her after her marriage); Mentions of flirting; Mentions of crushes & young teen girls mooning over boys; A mention of a married man having many mistresses around the city; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of women’s figures (one man suggests that Drusilla has a plump figure and Rhenick comments on liking Drusilla’s natural figure); A few mentions of Drusilla’s mother never have claiming to be overly fond of her husband & the two of them avoiding each other when he was alive.

-Drusilla Merriweather, age 22
-Rhenick Whittenbecker, age 28
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1885
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars

Oh, that was just so fun! Jen Turano knows how to write such a great cast of characters who end up in the most amusing situations and this book was the epitome of it! Like always, I laughed at different parts and read this book overall too quickly because I was enjoying it so much!

I liked both Drusilla and Rhenick and thought they were absolutely adorable together. He instantly fell for her and while I usually don’t care for that, it was actually really cute to see him tongue-tied over her and so smitten. He was just a doll in general and I loved seeing his big family where he is the oldest of five and has four younger sisters and his protectiveness over them—and their influence on him. Solid male lead and just a great guy all around.

The faith content was very light and while I would have liked a bit more, what was there was natural for the plotline.

There was a slight mystery throughout the book and even a bit of suspense. It actually reminded me of other books by this author at times, but had unique elements that will make it stand-out—such as the opening of a boarding school/finishing school! I can’t wait for the rest of the series and learn about about Drusilla’s sister, Annaliese and her friend, Seraphina (really, all of the characters in this book had great names!)




*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this honest review.

Another installment in the hilarity that is the novels by Jen Turano. This is the first book in a new series, and I loved it! I loved the characters, especially the heroine - she is just great! I enjoyed watching her have to make her own way, when those famed rich Fortune 400 people turned up their noses at her and her family.
My favorite thing about her - well, Drusilla is always polite and mannerly, even when she wants to be anything but that! And it is this very trait that kept her going, and gave her hope of a future. And also her gumption. And making the best of hard situations, especially when she's left by her fiance.

And of course, then there's also that dashing but slightly unlike hero. He was too fun!

If you are a lover of fun and humor, be sure and read this one - Jen Turano has outdone herself!!

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

Jen Turano's latest book, A Lesson in Propriety, is a delightful historical romance with a touch of mystery. Drusilla Merriweather's story is a wild ride filled with humor, romance, and unexpected twists. With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and intriguing plot, this book is a must-read for fans of historical romance and cozy mysteries.

I received a copy from the publisher and Austenprose via NetGalley, but a positive review was not required.

This book was absolutely ridiculous. In the best way! I love Drusilla so much! I love the way she thinks and conducts herself. I thought it was funny how she is said to be so proper but yet still does things that are not at all proper. Her mother is terrified of all the supposed ghosts in the house Drusilla inherited. I loved her mom! And her sister! Rhenick, wants to protect Drusilla from potential harm so he proposes which he finds out was a mistake. He and Drusilla are at odds for a bit but I love their interactions. I loved watching their relationship develop. And the romance was cute. All of the main characters were such fun and humorous characters. If you love wit, banter, humor and a little mystery and romance you will love this story. I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

I think voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

As always, this author’s humorous tension and witty dialogue were entertaining and enjoyable to read from start to finish!

Some of the things I enjoyed:
🩵Witty humor
🩵Starts with a fresh start
🩵Intelligent cast of women
🩵Chicago setting
🩵A disappearing aunt
🩵Inheriting a mysterious “haunted” castle
🩵Peculiar items moving in the castle
🩵A handsome hero who quickly expresses admiration for the heroine
🩵 A desirable property wanred by the wrong sort of Chicago folks (mobsters)
🩵A woman down on her luck and willing to face all the odds against her to open up a school for girls

I love that this book features strong willed and intelligent women, they were such a delight to read about their various and unique interests and the creative way they shaped the story. The romance was swoony and throughly delightful.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House for an advanced copy of this story, all opinions are my own.