A Change of Fortune (Ladies of Distinction, #1)

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A Change of Fortune (Ladies of Distinction #1)

3.94 of 5 stars 3.94 · rating details · 357 ratings · 126 reviews

Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. Her fortune was the last thing she had left after losing her father, her fiancé, and her faith. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.

Mr. Hamilton Beckett, much to his chagrin, is the catch of the seaso...more

Paperback, 320 pages

Published November 1st 2012 by Bethany House Publishers

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Oct 12, 2012 Chinelo rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: giveaway-wins, back-of-the-closet

My copy is an ARC received from Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It started off pretty quickly and gave the reader a basic play-by-play of what was going on all within the first few chapters, which I liked. Very Jane Austen-like. While I don't mind an author building up to their plot, there are some stories that just need to hit the ground running so the reader isn't sitting there, tapping their fingers like, "Okay, so when is this book actually going to begin?".
E...more My copy is an ARC received from Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It started off pretty quickly and gave the reader a basic play-by-play of what was going on all within the first few chapters, which I liked. Very Jane Austen-like. While I don't mind an author building up to their plot, there are some stories that just need to hit the ground running so the reader isn't sitting there, tapping their fingers like, "Okay, so when is this book actually going to begin?".
Eliza was a good character. At first, she seemed a little snarky, making a (usually negative) comment in her head about every little thing, but eventually I realized that's just how she is, and I got over it. I was impressed with how the author molded the novel into "Christian reading". Usually, I shy away from what I feel to be aggressive opinions about religion in novels, but I didn't get that feeling form this book. Also, I was surprised by how Mr. Hamilton Bennett was more focused on his family than himself. That's not a common trait in novels like these. I found myself laughing and crying and screaming at all the characters, just thinking over and over, "What?! Why? How did that happen? Oh my gosh!". But in a good way.
There were a few points where I was reading a line, and it came off as overly generic or cliche, like the author found some dusty old book of "things people should say in 19th century-era books" and it bothered me, because I would rather read a boring but original quote from the author than a stereotype of what the character should/shouldn't say.
The writing style, at times, kind of fell through as more modern than 19th century, but it didn't happen too often. However, the familiarity of an independent, witty, lovable female character trying to make her way in life while caught up in the murky waters of pride, prejudice, sensibility and love (yes, I DID just write that in a review) was a definite advantage.
All in all, if you're a fan of Jane Austen and you don't mind a giving a little leeway in the writing style, this could be a book to put on your list (or shelf).If you're looking for a serious read, this isn't the book for you; if you're looking for a light read and you don't have time to pull out a 300+ classic novel, try this book. I would give it a chance and a chapter (or two).(less)

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Jan 10, 2013 Rebekah Gyger rated it 2 of 5 stars

I really wanted to like this book. The cover is great and my sister read it and told me it about the funniest book she had ever read. But I couldn't get into it.

The people were unrealistic, with all of high society actually speaking to and fine with a governess attending one of their parties. I could understand some of them not being snobs about it, but not all.

Also, the dialogue.... What can I say about it but that everyone talks way to much. Maybe they should stop to take a breath. With almost...more

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Jan 22, 2013 AJ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Breezy. Rollicking. Energetic. These are just some words that come to mind after finishing A CHANGE OF FORTUNE. From first to last, this story was thoroughly engaging. I couldn't put it down! I laughed out loud throughout this book, and sighed with a big ol' sappy grin on my face when I reached the last page. Jen Turano is a fresh new voice in historical romance; if you love Karen Witemeyer, Lisa Bergren, Deeanne Gist and the like, then this book belongs on your favorites list. A highly enjoyabl...more

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Jan 10, 2013 Nancy rated it 2 of 5 stars

When Lord Sefton dies, his remaining child, Lady Eliza, is left with nothing. Her father's man of affairs has embezzled her vast fortune and left for America. Eliza sets out to find her fortune when English Authorities refuse to believe that it has been stolen. She is shocked to find that the assets are not the only things lost. The man of affairs has spread negative rumors regarding her father's handling of the family's vast wealth. Her fiance deserts her and society wants nothing to do with a...more When Lord Sefton dies, his remaining child, Lady Eliza, is left with nothing. Her father's man of affairs has embezzled her vast fortune and left for America. Eliza sets out to find her fortune when English Authorities refuse to believe that it has been stolen. She is shocked to find that the assets are not the only things lost. The man of affairs has spread negative rumors regarding her father's handling of the family's vast wealth. Her fiance deserts her and society wants nothing to do with a person of poor reputation. In America, Eliza seeks employment as a governess. This is short lived when, after a nighttime sleuthing adventure, she and her eldest charge end up in jail for prostitution. Hamilton Beckett, her love interest, rescues Eliza and Agatha from jail. Hamilton lost his wife in an accident almost two years before and has been desolate, thinking that it was his fault. Eliza and Beckett find that their fortunes are literally tied together in this tale of romance and intrigue.

Ms. Turano has a skill and an imagination that she should continue to develop. I do not want to discourage her writing. However, somethings definitely distracted from my enjoyment of the story. There was too much relational conflict between Hamilton and Eliza. I wondered if with their communication issues they would have a lot of trouble after they were married. They were continually misreading each other and so much so that the actual story bogged down. I think of the use of "snort" and "hiss" in terms of pigs and snakes and maybe people of low culture but not a well-bred English lady or gentleman. The intrigue side of things could've been much better developed.

I have been seriously conflicted regarding this review because, as I said, I have no desire to discourage Jen Turano but I also wanted to be honest. Should she read this review, my hope is that she will receive the criticism as constructive and be able to apply it to her next novel. This book was received from Bethany House publishers as part of their review program. (less)

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Jan 25, 2013 Tammi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2013

*An outstanding debut for Jen Turano*

The cover drew me to this book even before I read the description; and the story was everything that was promised and more.

Humor weaves its way throughout the book, from the main cast of characters straight to the secondary cast of characters. Lady Eliza Sumner is in hiding, and tries to disguise her appearance as she searches for the man who stole her inheritance. When I met her she was working as a governess in New York City, and was called upon to attend a...more

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Jan 21, 2013 Richelle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-have

I try not to give 5 stars, and only use them when it seems fit. However, in this case this one deserves everyone of those stars. I loved this book. I was taken in the with the first scene and it kept me turning pages until the very end. There was a couple of twist in there that I did not see coming which was great. I am looking forward of more novels out of Jen Turano!

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Jun 12, 2013 Renn Shearin rated it 4 of 5 stars

Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. After losing her family, her fiancé, and her trust in God, the disappearance of her fortune is the last straw. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.

Much to Mr. Hamilton Beckett's chagrin, all the eyes of New York society--all the female ones, at least--are on him. Unfortunately for all the matchmaking mothers and eligible dau...more Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. After losing her family, her fiancé, and her trust in God, the disappearance of her fortune is the last straw. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.

Much to Mr. Hamilton Beckett's chagrin, all the eyes of New York society--all the female ones, at least--are on him. Unfortunately for all the matchmaking mothers and eligible daughters, he has no plans to marry again, especially with his hands full keeping his business afloat and raising his two children alone.

When Eliza's hapless attempts to regain her fortune put her right in Hamilton's path, sparks instantly begin to fly. The discovery of a common nemesis causes them to join forces, but with all their plans falling by the wayside and their enemies getting the better of them, it will take a riot of complications for Hamilton and Eliza to realize that God just might have had a better plan in mind all along.

A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano was a whimsical and delightful novel that kept me engaged through the entire course of its pages. The plot had a good mix of mystery, suspense, humor, and disaster with a large dose of romance. While I loved the exchanges between Hamilton and Eliza, at times I found there instant connection to be unbelievable. The witty repartee between Zayne and Agatha with their only hint of romance seemed more realistic and relatable. However, I enjoyed the twists and turns as the characters were pulled into scrapes and seemingly unwinnable situations. The themes of this novel included the importance of trust in God and in others, being honest, and caring for one's family. The narration of A Change of Fortune was alternately from the perspective of Eliza and Hamilton.

The characters in A Change of Fortune were by far my favorite part of the novel. Each one was different, had an engaging personality, and added to the depth and humor of the story. Hamilton Beckett was an interesting character. He was labeled as "brooding", but his interactions with Eliza Sumner both destroyed this persona and created new problems and issues for him. He believed the worst about someone who had previously been close to him, and it led to the abandonment of his beliefs and his trust in others. Eliza had similarly been hurt by someone close to her family, and she chose to allow her past to almost destroy her faith and her future relationships. However, thankfully for both of them, they chose new paths for their lives that led them back to God and family. There were several surprising revelations that a brought a whole new light to what each thought had occurred in their pasts. The other more minor characters were excellent and added to the story tremendously. Zayne Beckett and Agatha Watson added much good humor and laughs to the story as they acted as foils to the main characters, and the chauvinist private detective Theodore Wilder added his own twists to the story with his dramatic escapes and bizarre conversations with other characters. Agatha's mother Mrs. Watson and the Becketts' mother Grace contributed to the story with their own schemes and hilarious acts as they tried to set up their children against or in spite of their own opinions to the contrary.

Overall, I enjoyed A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano, and I look forward to reading her next novel and the sequel, A Most Peculiar Circumstance. I would highly recommend this novel if you are looking for a dashing and delightful romance.

I received this novel for free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review
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Jun 07, 2013 Kathleen E. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Saturday, June 8, 2013
A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano, ©2012
Ladies of Distinction, book 1

Mrs. Watson released a sigh. "My dear, I don't wish to cause you distress, but quite frankly, you are not the type of woman with whom one wishes to enter into conversation at a dinner party."
Eliza swallowed a laugh. Apparently her attempt at disguising her appearance and her true identity could be deemed a success.
--A Change of Fortune, 10-11

Free eBook - Gentleman of Her Dreams, a Ladies of Distinction...more

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May 20, 2013 BlueJeansAndTeacups rated it 5 of 5 stars

•°o•:*:•.Funny, Exciting, Romantic.•:*:• o°•

Book #1 - The Ladies of Distinction Series
Author, Jen Turano knocked it out of the park with this one! I was laughing out loud all the way through it, and could not put it down!
This is Book #1 in The Ladies of Distinction Series. It has everything without being to over the top.

Eliza Sumner is on an adventure to reclaim her fortune. She does not see it as an adventure, but a necessity. She has devised a scheme to travel from 1880s London and exist undet...more

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Apr 16, 2013 Camille Millar rated it 3 of 5 stars

I seriously cannot remember the last time I read a fiction novel. I’m more into “how-to”s and self-improvement books, but an online summary and the beautiful cover of this book caught my attention and for some reason I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it!

A Change of Fortune, by Jen Turano, is a cute romance with sweet humor. It is the story of Miss Lady Eliza Sumner, on an adventure in America, trying to rescue her stolen fortune and keep her profile low was she investigates on her own, until th...more I seriously cannot remember the last time I read a fiction novel. I’m more into “how-to”s and self-improvement books, but an online summary and the beautiful cover of this book caught my attention and for some reason I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it!

A Change of Fortune, by Jen Turano, is a cute romance with sweet humor. It is the story of Miss Lady Eliza Sumner, on an adventure in America, trying to rescue her stolen fortune and keep her profile low was she investigates on her own, until the dashing Beckett brothers decide to become involved. This is quite an easy read, enjoyable to cuddle up with, and it seemed like far less then 320 pages for how quickly I was able to read it, seeing as I sometimes have a hard time finishing fiction.

I was immediately drawn in by the quick dialogue and the snappy quaint humor, and I so appreciated knowing that there would be nothing immoral that I would have to skip over. The book is completely void of foul language or other profanities, and the characters are charming! From the get-go, Eliza is loveable and our hero, Hamilton, is just dashing.

Throughout the majority of the novel, I hoped for a deeper plot, a bit of irony or something more thrilling than just the question of whether the two of them will end up together (because the plot-line never made me doubt), or that Eliza would retrieve her stolen fortune. This being said, it was nice to not have to sort through a laundry list of characters or get a headache trying to sort to discrepancies or holes.

Finally, with 100 pages left, the pace really picked up and it got quite exciting when some key characters finally show up at a grand event. I found the first half fairly predictable as it steadily provided small bits of background, but it set fire on Chapter 16, and I was completely engrossed.

Some religious aspects seemed a little forced and oddly placed, but I don’t mind and rather welcome any Christian themes. I certainly enjoyed knowing I could enjoy the book from cover to cover without having to skip over pages or try to forget something I wish I hadn’t read.

It ties up rather nicely, with a feel good message and (spoiler!) a wedding on the last page, as every good romance should!

Squeaky clean, quite charming, simple and funny–A Change of Fortune really is a darling book!(less)

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Mar 15, 2013 Amber rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-ebooks

I am a blogger for Bethany House. Change of Fortune is one of the books that I received as an electronic copy for free in exchange for a review. I thought that this was a great book. In a book I always look to see that it grabs my attention and this one certainly did. It was a book written in the late 1800's in New York City. Upon her father's death, a single woman, Eliza Sumner, comes to New York from England - where she tries to reclaim her wealth and identity from the man who stole it from he...more

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Feb 13, 2013 Christine rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is a novel that light, fun to read with more than situation that so absurd that it's comical.

With the loss of her family, fiancé and fortune, Lady Eliza Sumner heads to New York City and disguises herself as a governess as she tracks the man who stole her family’s fortune. Her very unsuccessful and fairly comical attempts to reclaim her fortune put her in the path of widower and businessman Hamilton Beckett, who is the focus of many matchmaking mothers — including his own mother. But he is...more

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Jan 27, 2013 Susan M. Baganz rated it 4 of 5 stars

I love historical romances that have a bit of wit and whimsy to them and Jen Turano serves up a generous helping of both in her novel, A Change of Fortune.
Lady Eliza loses everything, including her fiance and in a desperate scheme, sails from England to America to find the man who not only stole her money, but her families title as well. To make her plan successful, however, the English aristocrat hires herself out as a governess, sports spectacles and seeks, in her spare time, to ferret out th...more

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Jan 07, 2013 Renae Sattazahn rated it 5 of 5 stars

As far as I can tell, this is Jen Turano's first novel. Thankfully, it's only the first of four books in the "Ladies of Distinction" series. I can't wait until the next one comes out!
The main character, Eliza Sumner, is visiting America from England on a quest to bring the man that stole from her family to justice. She takes on a new identity as a nanny for a wealthy family and in the process meets Mr. Hamilton Beckett, one of the most eligible bachelors of the season. Since they find each othe...more

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Jan 03, 2013 Cara Putman rated it 5 of 5 stars

The cover sold me on this book, but then I read a novella which had me laughing out loud as it introduced the characters in this novel. The novella had me racing to read the book...so much so that I almost went out and bought a second copy of the book because I couldn't wait to get home to start reading.

The book did not disappoint. There is a strong thread of humor that runs through the book, from the main characters to the large supporting cast. Lady Eliza Sumner is hiding who she is in an atte...more

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Dec 26, 2012 Virginia Campbell rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

Delightful mischief and mayhem ensue when a downtrodden and determined heiress leaves her home in England to follow her fate to New York City of 1880. Lady Eliza Sumner struggles to endure the loss of her father and her fiance, but when her fortune is misappropriated, she determines to take matters into her own hands and regain her rightful inheritance. Posing as a governess, complete with an unflattering "makeover", she searches for the scoundrel who stole her family funds. Her quest inadverten...more

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Dec 19, 2012 Katelyn Shear rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: received-to-review, favorites

Stunning. Absolutely stunning. How could I enjoy a book like this any more than I already do? The answer to that is simple. I can't. I laughed and giggled and smiled like crazy. I also sighed, bit my nails, and covered my eyes in embarrassment for the characters. I don't normally enjoy books where one of the main characters already has children, but Ben and Piper were delightful. I could not keep myself from laughing at their antics.
Zayne had to be one of my favorite characters. While he was no...more

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Dec 19, 2012 Marianne rated it 5 of 5 stars

I don't usually start a book review by mentioning the cover, but this cover is so delightful, I need to begin at the front! This is one book you can judge by its cover...Lady Eliza Sumner is just as charming as the photo!
The story is a rather somber one, of losing one's inheritance through the unscruplous actions of another, but I found the actions of the characters to be quite on the humorous side, and am glad that I was not subjected to many of the instances found in the story. Being of the a...more

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Dec 18, 2012 Anne B rated it 4 of 5 stars

It is a rare book that can make me laugh when it comes to Christian fiction. Really that's because I haven't many Christian authors who incorporate humor well into their writing. This morning I finished reading A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano. On the back of the novel, it identifies this book as her first published novel.

I enjoyed it. It's a Christian historical romance fiction book. The story centers on Eliza Sumner who has traveled to America in the late 1800s to reclaim her lost fortune. T...more

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Dec 11, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christain-historical-romance

A CHANGE OF FORTUNE by Jen Turano is an exciting inspirational historical romance set in 1880 New York City. A rollicking debut that will have you laughing out loud. Filled with danger,romance, suspense,mystery,murder,friendship,family,faith,mishaps,a lost inheritance,and love. Follow Lady Eliza Sumner and Mr. Hamilton Beckett on an adventure of mishaps,with a comedy of errors and love. Lady Eliza is on a mission to recover her lost inheritance all the way from England and Hamilton is on a missi...more

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Dec 09, 2012 Christian Fiction Addiction rated it 4 of 5 stars

Debut author Jen Turano is a fun new arrival to the world of Christian fiction, writing with an entertaining hand that literally had me laughing out loud at several scenes! Lady Eliza Sumner is a delightful character, full of life and daring deeds, and willing to risk her reputation in order to regain her fortune and achieve justice. The relationship that develops between Eliza and Hamilton unfolds at a swift pace, beginning with one of the funniest opening chapters that I've read all year. I lo...more

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Dec 05, 2012 Maureen Timerman rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

Jen Turano has written a delightful and fun story of 1880's aristocrats in NY City. Eliza Sumner is on a mission to regain her stolen fortune, and the lengths she goes to will tickle your funny bone.
When spurned by her Financé ...well the Cad really wanted her money, and now that she is penniless, he is no longer interested. She is a smart cookie, and love how she got the money to go from England to NYC. She is now living as a Governess, while waiting for a chance to find the culprits.
When Mrs W...more

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Dec 04, 2012 Judy rated it 5 of 5 stars

A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano
Ladies of Distinction Series Book 1
Lady Eliza Sumner has traveled from England to New York. She just lost her father, fiance and fortune. She can not get her father back, does not want her fiance back so she can only try and get her fortune from the man who stole it away from her. So starts her adventure of going from the Ton’s sweetheart to a simple governess.

Hamilton Beckett is a the most eligible man in New York, oh so his mother is letting people know. A wido...more

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Nov 12, 2012 Lisa Johnson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Title: A Change of Fortune
Author: Jen Turano
Pages: 320
Year: 2012
Publisher: Bethany
The work of fiction in this review is a first for this author and it is an exceptional way to start for sure! Miss Sumner, if that is really is her name, comes to America alone from England after her father dies. While she may not be able to inherit the estate because she is a woman, her cousin can’t run it because all the money has been stolen. Miss Sumner knows who stole the money, but proving it is turning int...more Title: A Change of Fortune
Author: Jen Turano
Pages: 320
Year: 2012
Publisher: Bethany
The work of fiction in this review is a first for this author and it is an exceptional way to start for sure! Miss Sumner, if that is really is her name, comes to America alone from England after her father dies. While she may not be able to inherit the estate because she is a woman, her cousin can’t run it because all the money has been stolen. Miss Sumner knows who stole the money, but proving it is turning into the biggest obstacle of all. Set in 1880’s in New York City, this work of fiction has many facets to it. It is part mystery, romance, redemption, resolution, and also includes many interesting views of the life each character possesses.
In the inner depths of the story more characters are introduced who also seem to have need of a private investigator. Miss Sumner has been summarily dismissed from being a governess for reasons other than her deception she posed to the Watson family. Hamilton and his brother are wealthy and run the family business; Hamilton is a widower with two young children. Hamilton rescues the former Miss Sumner, who is now known by her real name and title though she allows friends to call her Eliza.
Thought to be a superficial man who is easily distracted from serious pursuits, Zayne begins to show true character in unexpected moments. Hamilton and Zayne’s mother creates a situation that hampers the investigation for Eliza. Agatha is the oldest of the Watson daughters who, through a middle of the night excursion, develops a deep friendship with Eliza. Agatha has a strong faith and begins a pursuit in the professional world that is deemed unacceptable. Hamilton and Eliza are trying their hardest not to fall in love though each of them for different reasons. How will the entangled threads be undone so as to bring resolution and redemption to broken hearts?
In the story, there is an ex-fiancée whose character is very questionable and a private investigator that runs head long into any danger. However, what is the one thing he runs from? Hamilton’s children are kidnapped because two people want nothing but wealth and more.
There is so much adventure to keep a person reading all the way until the last page. The story gripped me from the first page and didn’t let go. When I reached the end, I only wanted the story to keep going! When fiction is written with themes of love, faith, forgiveness and hope it encourages the heart, soothes the soul, and restores the faith. There are many surprises included in A Change of Fortune, so get your copy today and enjoy!
My rating 5+ stars.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspo... . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson...
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Nov 08, 2012 Kathleen (Kat) Smith rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: chick-literature, christian-fiction, christian-historical-fiction, historical-fiction, romance-fiction, young-adult-fiction

Miss Eliza Sumner had hoped that she could go completely unnoticed as the Governness for the Watson family helping to raise and mold their young girls. However when she is called to attend a dinner party last minute and has to dawn a gown that is too over large to fit her figure, she does what anyone would, she tries to pull it off long enough to go back to her room. But when she hits a snag, quite literally in her dress and winds up face down on the dining room floor, it's an unlikely hero that...more Miss Eliza Sumner had hoped that she could go completely unnoticed as the Governness for the Watson family helping to raise and mold their young girls. However when she is called to attend a dinner party last minute and has to dawn a gown that is too over large to fit her figure, she does what anyone would, she tries to pull it off long enough to go back to her room. But when she hits a snag, quite literally in her dress and winds up face down on the dining room floor, it's an unlikely hero that comes to her rescue, Mr. Hamilton Beckett, who seems to be the most handsome and eligible bachelor in New York's elite. He is completely smitten by her down to earth charm even though she attempts to push him away. Will they be fated to run into one another under different circumstances?

When Eliza learns through a conversation at the dinner party that the man she's been following since leaving London, is passing himself off as a member of the English aristocracy known as Mr. Bartholomew Hayes. He was also making excellent use of her money, living in a mansion that was beyond spectacular, and outfitting it with the latest furnishings evidenced by the numerous delivery wagons that had pulled up with annoying frequency while Eliza lurked on the opposite side of the street.

It had taken every ounce of self-control she possessed to refrain from storming through the front door and confronting the man who'd been her father's most trusted employee, a trusted employee who'd turn out to be nothing more than a lying, thieving, no-good scoundrel who'd managed to systematically divert her father's vast fortune into his own accounts sometime during the months surrounding her father's death.

Her temper began to simmer when she realized she wouldn't be in her current predicament if Mr. Hayes had refrained from taking her very last pound. If he would have left her a smidgen of her father's fortune, she would still be in London, basking in the admiration of her friends and her fiance', instead of residing in New York without a single friend and possessed of an ex-fiance'.

Who would have thought a gentlemen could turn from his intended simply because said intended suddenly found herself without funds? But apparently, Lord Wrathshire, or Lawrence as he'd insisted she call in him private had been more enthralled with her fortune than her sparkling personality. He had heard rumors about her father wasting his fortune away, and since there was now an insurmountable blemish staining her family name, he could no longer remain engaged to her. After making that proclamation, he turned and walked out of the room without saying another world. She won't stop until she finds a way to reclaim what is her's and head straight back to London.

I received A Change in Fortune by Jen Turano compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. I love the saga that poor Eliza Sumner found herself in despite the time in history when it would be virtually unheard of for a woman to hunt down a man who left her penniless and ruined her family name, yet Eliza is that strong-willed and determined and it's that strength that makes her instantly likeable and has you rooting for her the whole way through this novel. If you love historical romances with a bit of a quirky twist, then you will LOVE this one. I rate it a 4 out of 5 stars. (less)

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Dec 19, 2012 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

After losing everything to the very people her family trusted, Lady Eliza Sumner undertakes the responsibility to recover her stolen inheritance. Shedding her title to be better able to play the sleuth, Eliza heads towards America and working as a governess for the Watson's. A hilarious comedy of errors and propriety ensues as Eliza goes on the adventure of a lifetime.
This book isn't quite what I thought it would be. I figured it would be more serious, while it was more like "The Importance of B...more

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Oct 22, 2012 Cherise rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-or-review-copy, first-reads, historical-romance

I received this book free from GoodReads First Reads.

Lady Eliza Sumner has left England, chasing after her stolen fortune and has landed in New York. Posing as plain old Eliza Sumner, Governess, she is making an honest living until she can recover her stolen money. One giant misunderstanding eventually leaves her unemployed and under the roof of Hamilton Beckett, a man who has also has a mystery to solve.

This book is a comedy of errors and mishaps, mostly caused by or centered on Eliza. She isn’...more I received this book free from GoodReads First Reads.

Lady Eliza Sumner has left England, chasing after her stolen fortune and has landed in New York. Posing as plain old Eliza Sumner, Governess, she is making an honest living until she can recover her stolen money. One giant misunderstanding eventually leaves her unemployed and under the roof of Hamilton Beckett, a man who has also has a mystery to solve.

This book is a comedy of errors and mishaps, mostly caused by or centered on Eliza. She isn’t your typical historical romance heroine, she is independent and headstrong. I think the best part of this book is the supporting cast of characters. Each and every character was vibrant and a little crazy… completely fun to read. From the ankle biting Ben to the pistol packing Agatha I was completely entertained by each and every one of them.

The romance portion of this book could have been more detailed and the relationship cultivated more. I think the relationship between Eliza and Ben and Piper was the strongest bond created and I felt that it had more depth than that of Hamilton and Eliza’s. I would have liked to see more romancing between Eliza and Hamilton. Instead I felt like their relationship was more of a friendship.

I usually stay far away from Inspirational romances; I just don’t enjoy the religious element in my romances. Had I known this was one of those books, I probably would have passed it up. As it was I didn’t feel like I was being spoon-fed religion and I thought the mentions of faith and God to be a lot more natural than books I have read in the past. There were still times, however, when I felt the mention was overkill.

I would have liked some closure with some of the characters like Grayson, Agatha and Zayne. I am assuming the author left us hanging on purpose and plans on writing a few more books starring these people. I hope. This book won’t knock you off your feet but it will definitely help you pass an afternoon enjoyably.

Cherise Everhard, October 2012
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Dec 03, 2012 Elsie rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm almost at a loss as for what to say about this book. I liked the idea of the book a lot. Eliza Sumner is in America, posing as a governess and trying to find the man who stole her fortune. I thought it was an excellent premise. Unfortunately... it went downhill from there. I'm not really sure what the point is of writing a historical fiction novel if there's not going to be much historically accurate. There was hardly anything that the characters did that seemed accurate to the time period....more

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Gail There was hardly anything that the characters did that seemed accurate to the time period." I work at the library where the author did her research fo...more
Feb 14, 2013 10:20pm

Dawn I agree with you, Elsie. It's not just about historical accuracy. There was so much wrong with the continuity of time in this book. I didn't finish it...more
Feb 28, 2013 09:40pm

Jan 23, 2013 Jan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-reviewed, a-z-reading-challenge-2013

I love, love, loved this book! A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano is an fun book that I could not put down. Lady Eliza Sumner and Mr. Hamilton Beckett instantly reached into my heart and did not let go even after I read the last page. The cover of this book totally captures the personality of Lady Eliza. I hope to see these character re-appear in a series, as well as future love stories for Mr. Zayne Beckett, Miss Agatha Watson, Grayson and Arabella. I have heard that Theodore Wilders story is du...more

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Jan 18, 2013 Michaela Hoover rated it 5 of 5 stars

A Change of Fortune
Miss Sumner, or better known as Lady Eliza Sumner, daughter of Lord of Sefton, is living in New York. After losing her family, her faith, her inheritance, and because of that her fiance', she traveled to America to find Mr. Hayes the man who stole her fortune. She passes herself off as a governess while searching for him. While work for the Watson's she has to attend a high society dinner in place of Miss Agatha Watson. She is to sit between Mr. Hamilton and Mr Zayne Beckett,...more A Change of Fortune
Miss Sumner, or better known as Lady Eliza Sumner, daughter of Lord of Sefton, is living in New York. After losing her family, her faith, her inheritance, and because of that her fiance', she traveled to America to find Mr. Hayes the man who stole her fortune. She passes herself off as a governess while searching for him. While work for the Watson's she has to attend a high society dinner in place of Miss Agatha Watson. She is to sit between Mr. Hamilton and Mr Zayne Beckett, who Mr. and Mrs Watson intend for Agatha to marry one of them. Not wanting to be noticed as an aristocrat to tried to disguise herself with a pair of spectacles and she makes a mess of things, bringing more attention to herself than planned. She tripped on her gown and fell to the floor, making a bug scene because she can't see what was in front of her. During dinner she learns that Mr. Hayes and his wife live in New York not far from the Watson's, and he is calling himself Lord Southmoor. Not only has he stolen her fortune he has also stolen her father;s title as Lord. She is determined to find him and take back what is rightfully hers. One night Eliza slips out and goes to Mr/ Hayes house, but Agatha follows her even when she told her not to. While in the house they realize they aren't the only one who has broken into the house. Mr. and Mr. Beckett are in the house as well, looking for information in Mr. Eugene Daniels. Hearing the police they try to escape by jumping out the window and over a wall. THE WRONG WALL. They land themselves in jail because they are mistaken as women of the night. Hamilton and Zayne some to the rescue and bail them out. Eliza and Agatha arrive home to find agitated Mr. and Mrs. Watson waiting for them. Mr Watson learns they were in jail and fires Eliza on the spot. Hamilton invites Eliza to stay with him and his mother, Gloria Beckett. Hamilton lost his wide two years ago in an accident, since then his children have been through many nannies and he doesn't think he is capable of loving ever again. The children fall in love with Eliza as well as her growing attached to them. I could go on and on but I'm going to leave you hanging. To find out the rest you with have to read the book yourself. What will happen??

Jen Turano is an AMAZING author. I could not put this book down and finished it within a week, which is really surprising for me. This is the first book in the Ladies of Distinction series. She has a novella Gentleman of Her Dreams which is like a prologue to the series. Book 2, A Most Peculiar Circumstance comes in July 2013. I am very excited!! (less)

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About Jen Turano

Jen Turano is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in Clothing and Textiles. She pursued a career in management for nine years before switching to full-time motherhood after the birth of her son. When she's not writing, Jen can be found watching her teenage son participate in various activities, taking long walks with her husband and dog, socializing with friends, or delving into a...more

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Books by Jen Turano

Gentleman of Her Dreams (Ladies of Distinction, #0.5)

A Most Peculiar Circumstance (Ladies of Distinction, #2)

A Talent for Trouble (Ladies of Distinction #3)

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Quotes from A Change of Fortune

“Miss Sumner, may I inquire as to why you're lounging on the floor?" Mrs. Watson asked.
Miss Sumner uttered something which sounded very much like "it should be obvious" before she lifted her head. "You really must compliment your staff, Mrs. Watson. This floor is remarkably clean.” — 6 people liked it

“Hamilton found it difficult to concentrate on what Eliza was saying. Her lips were moving rapidly, but he couldn't actually decipher what the words coming out of her mouth were. It was such a lovely mouth, and he found it quite quirky, given the fact that it could assume different positions with alarming frequency. Like now, it was pursed in a most attractive manner, and now... it was moving again as if the lady could not get the words out fast enough. His gaze traveled upward, past the eyes that were flashing and settled on her hair. He couldn't help but appreciate the efforts of Mabel. The curls she'd been able to produce on Eliza's head, well, they were tantalizing. He had the strangest urge to reach out and touch them, to feel with his own hand if they were as soft as they appeared, something he'd been contemplating ever since he got a good look at her in the dining room. He pulled abruptly back to reality when Eliza poked him in the chest.” — 4 people liked it

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A Change of Fortune (Ladies of Distinction #1)

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