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Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies #1
A Lesson in Propriety
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.
In this entrancing series starter, Turano presents a tale of laugh-out-loud adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age.
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.
In this entrancing series starter, Turano presents a tale of laugh-out-loud adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 20, 2025
59 people are currently reading
4278 people want to read
About the author
Jen Turano
31 books1,964 followersNamed One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com - https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoaut... , https://www.instagram.com/jenturanoau... or on Twitter at JenTurano@JenTurano.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 24, 2025
easy-peasy 4 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Historical
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* ; 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!)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*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.
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* ; 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!)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*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.
May 22, 2025
A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano
4 Stars
Book 1 in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies Series
BLOG POST: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
If you love historical romance with a side of sass, mystery and lots of humor - READ THIS BOOK! 🎀✨
Miss Drusilla Merriweather has lost everything....her father, her fortune, and even her fiancé (good riddance, to be honest!). She is left with only a "haunted" castle 🏰, one with strange happenings like walking suits of armor and unexpected visitors. She rolls up her sleeves and decides to turn it into a finishing school. Cue the ghostly shenanigans, suspicious developers, and a swoon-worthy architect with a heart of gold. 💘
Rhenick Wittenbecker is charming and clever. I loved their dynamic together. The BANTER had me giggling!
All the funny, lighthearted "attacks" and quirky details really made the story. We have SO much in this, including fun pirate stories and hilarious animal events. Drusilla really is a spunky woman and Rhenick was a great guy. The mystery surrounding the castle was very interesting to me, really something you just got to know how it ends up.
Jen never fails to create heroines who refuse to be boxed in by society’s expectations and Drusilla is no exception. She’s bold, smart, and determined to make her own way, haunted castle or not, which I absolutely LOVE! I connected to her immediately with the drama with her fiancé making me crack up! Her SASS was on 10 and I loved it!
Loved this one and looking forward to the next book! Thank you to the publisher for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts are my own.
4 Stars
Book 1 in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies Series
BLOG POST: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
If you love historical romance with a side of sass, mystery and lots of humor - READ THIS BOOK! 🎀✨
Miss Drusilla Merriweather has lost everything....her father, her fortune, and even her fiancé (good riddance, to be honest!). She is left with only a "haunted" castle 🏰, one with strange happenings like walking suits of armor and unexpected visitors. She rolls up her sleeves and decides to turn it into a finishing school. Cue the ghostly shenanigans, suspicious developers, and a swoon-worthy architect with a heart of gold. 💘
Rhenick Wittenbecker is charming and clever. I loved their dynamic together. The BANTER had me giggling!
All the funny, lighthearted "attacks" and quirky details really made the story. We have SO much in this, including fun pirate stories and hilarious animal events. Drusilla really is a spunky woman and Rhenick was a great guy. The mystery surrounding the castle was very interesting to me, really something you just got to know how it ends up.
Jen never fails to create heroines who refuse to be boxed in by society’s expectations and Drusilla is no exception. She’s bold, smart, and determined to make her own way, haunted castle or not, which I absolutely LOVE! I connected to her immediately with the drama with her fiancé making me crack up! Her SASS was on 10 and I loved it!
Loved this one and looking forward to the next book! Thank you to the publisher for a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts are my own.
June 5, 2025
4.75 stars
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 voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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 voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 9, 2025
Hysterical.
Laugh Out Loud Funny.
Seriously. That is how I'd describe the latest book from the fabulous Jen Turano as she starts a new series. I cannot wait to see what mischief Drusilla, Anneliese, and Seraphina get into as they open their new school.
I don't know if I loved the attack ferrets or the herd of watch-goats more. But they were both spectacularly incorporated.
You will fall in love with Rhenick--the lone man in a whole extended family family of females. Drusilla--oh she gives that fiancé of hers a glorious set-down and I love how she's able to use her EXTENSIVE knowledge of social propriety to get herself out of a lot of situations.
I'm eager to see the man that captures Anneliese's heart and what Seraphina's story is (it's gonna be a doozy I'm sure!). Maybe Mama Merriweather will find love too?!
this is such a lovely and lighthearted book to bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart. And the message of being loved for all your uniqueness shown loud and clear. The message of men treasuring their wives warmed my heart.
5 Stars
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
Laugh Out Loud Funny.
Seriously. That is how I'd describe the latest book from the fabulous Jen Turano as she starts a new series. I cannot wait to see what mischief Drusilla, Anneliese, and Seraphina get into as they open their new school.
I don't know if I loved the attack ferrets or the herd of watch-goats more. But they were both spectacularly incorporated.
You will fall in love with Rhenick--the lone man in a whole extended family family of females. Drusilla--oh she gives that fiancé of hers a glorious set-down and I love how she's able to use her EXTENSIVE knowledge of social propriety to get herself out of a lot of situations.
I'm eager to see the man that captures Anneliese's heart and what Seraphina's story is (it's gonna be a doozy I'm sure!). Maybe Mama Merriweather will find love too?!
this is such a lovely and lighthearted book to bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart. And the message of being loved for all your uniqueness shown loud and clear. The message of men treasuring their wives warmed my heart.
5 Stars
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
June 27, 2025
A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is a delightful romantic comedy that is the first book in the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series. Miss Drusilla Merriweather’s life has changed drastically after her family lost their fortune. She moves to a supposedly haunted castle to start a finishing school. The first day Drusilla meets Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker and trouble, misunderstanding, and sparks start to fly.
This was a great beginning to a new series. Drusilla was a fun character with lots of spunk who made me laugh out loud. Rhenick was a great hero, gentleman, and all-around great guy who I enjoyed rooting for. I loved the banter, humor, and sweet romance. Meeting the other characters, the mystery of the castle, and the setting of the Gilded age made for a great story!
There is nothing quite like a Jen Turano book to make you laugh, reflect, and take you on a great journey. I enjoyed A Lesson in Propriety and look forward to the other books in the series. I highly recommend.
I was given a complimentary copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
This was a great beginning to a new series. Drusilla was a fun character with lots of spunk who made me laugh out loud. Rhenick was a great hero, gentleman, and all-around great guy who I enjoyed rooting for. I loved the banter, humor, and sweet romance. Meeting the other characters, the mystery of the castle, and the setting of the Gilded age made for a great story!
There is nothing quite like a Jen Turano book to make you laugh, reflect, and take you on a great journey. I enjoyed A Lesson in Propriety and look forward to the other books in the series. I highly recommend.
I was given a complimentary copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
May 19, 2025
What should a displaced and penniless heiress (formerly a member of the New York 400) add to her newly gifted castle in Chicago that already contains a herd of watch-goats, an unkindness of ravens, a tagalong goose, copious rats and spiders, and a strong possibility of at least one ghost? Well, a trio of attack ferrets, of course. Because what else would one such character do in a Jen Turano novel, besides that very thing? Especially when the bosses of Chicago’s criminal underworld have their eyes set on that same property and don’t appear to be taking Drusilla Merriweather’s ‘no’ for an answer. I don’t know how Jen Turano continues to come up with the hilarity that ensues in her stories, but I’m so glad she does because they never fail to put laughter on my lips and a smile in my heart.
A Lesson in Propriety kicks off a brand new series that has us leaving Turano’s traditional settings of New York or Newport to take up residence in Chicago with Drusilla Merriweather, her widowed mother Irma, her sister Annaliese, and her best friend Seraphina (who, I’m not gonna lie, scares me just a little lol). The drafty, haunted, neglected castle that Aunt Ottilie transferred to Drusilla and Annaliese (before mysteriously disappearing) initially felt like something right out of a Jaime Jo Wright novel but then, oh yes there they are, the delightful Jen Turano spins at every turn. Poor Drusilla – the antics that she encounters upon arrival at the castle were basically all of my own worst nightmares rolled into one house, minus people in costume. (Although… maybe that’s why Seraphina scares me a little, come to think of it.) Enter the charming and sweet Rhenick Wittenbecker who… well… does not get off to a very good start with Drusilla, despite his gallant intentions. I immediately adored him though, along with his family, and loved him all the more after one particularly redeeming act of heroism that even Drusilla can’t deny. (And for those of you who know about my bird phobia, you’ll know what I’m referring to when you get there lol.)
It also wouldn’t be a Jen Turano book without at least a dash of suspense to create more farcical mayhem, and A Lesson in Propriety sees danger coming from several different avenues. I wasn’t sure exactly how it was all going to play out, and there were several twists that took me by surprise in the best way. Where’s Aunt Ottilie? What’s behind all the strange goings-on at the castle? Why do so many developers – particularly those connected to the criminal underworld – want that property? And, amidst all of the above new mysteries and mayhem they encounter in Chicago, there remains the whole reason they had to leave New York in the first place: will the Pinkertons be able to find the crook who stole the Merriweather fortune? The suspense elements in this book were a lot of fun to follow and puzzle over, and I am especially intrigued in how some of these might continue to play out across the series.
Bottom Line: A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is endearing and eccentric and so very entertaining. I have come to expect no less from this author, and she starts this new series with a bang (and a bleat… and whatever noise a ferret makes). The characters are kooky but adorably so, and Drusilla and Rhenick make a delightful pair whom I enjoyed getting to know around the cobwebs and criminals and ghostly apparitions and terrifying… i mean, hilarious… animals. I am really looking forward to seeing what stories await Annaliese and Seraphina, as well as the antics that surely will occur once their Finishing School opens its doors, having already met a few of their future students on these pages. Laughter, danger, mystery, romance, and of course plenty of mischief – plus a gently-delivered message of embracing your uniqueness as something to be treasured – make this another Turano read that’s not to be missed!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
A Lesson in Propriety kicks off a brand new series that has us leaving Turano’s traditional settings of New York or Newport to take up residence in Chicago with Drusilla Merriweather, her widowed mother Irma, her sister Annaliese, and her best friend Seraphina (who, I’m not gonna lie, scares me just a little lol). The drafty, haunted, neglected castle that Aunt Ottilie transferred to Drusilla and Annaliese (before mysteriously disappearing) initially felt like something right out of a Jaime Jo Wright novel but then, oh yes there they are, the delightful Jen Turano spins at every turn. Poor Drusilla – the antics that she encounters upon arrival at the castle were basically all of my own worst nightmares rolled into one house, minus people in costume. (Although… maybe that’s why Seraphina scares me a little, come to think of it.) Enter the charming and sweet Rhenick Wittenbecker who… well… does not get off to a very good start with Drusilla, despite his gallant intentions. I immediately adored him though, along with his family, and loved him all the more after one particularly redeeming act of heroism that even Drusilla can’t deny. (And for those of you who know about my bird phobia, you’ll know what I’m referring to when you get there lol.)
It also wouldn’t be a Jen Turano book without at least a dash of suspense to create more farcical mayhem, and A Lesson in Propriety sees danger coming from several different avenues. I wasn’t sure exactly how it was all going to play out, and there were several twists that took me by surprise in the best way. Where’s Aunt Ottilie? What’s behind all the strange goings-on at the castle? Why do so many developers – particularly those connected to the criminal underworld – want that property? And, amidst all of the above new mysteries and mayhem they encounter in Chicago, there remains the whole reason they had to leave New York in the first place: will the Pinkertons be able to find the crook who stole the Merriweather fortune? The suspense elements in this book were a lot of fun to follow and puzzle over, and I am especially intrigued in how some of these might continue to play out across the series.
Bottom Line: A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is endearing and eccentric and so very entertaining. I have come to expect no less from this author, and she starts this new series with a bang (and a bleat… and whatever noise a ferret makes). The characters are kooky but adorably so, and Drusilla and Rhenick make a delightful pair whom I enjoyed getting to know around the cobwebs and criminals and ghostly apparitions and terrifying… i mean, hilarious… animals. I am really looking forward to seeing what stories await Annaliese and Seraphina, as well as the antics that surely will occur once their Finishing School opens its doors, having already met a few of their future students on these pages. Laughter, danger, mystery, romance, and of course plenty of mischief – plus a gently-delivered message of embracing your uniqueness as something to be treasured – make this another Turano read that’s not to be missed!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 4, 2025
Another great historical fiction by Jen Turano - the queen of gilded age comedy strikes again! When Drusilla Merriweather's fiance dumps her after her late father's solicitor absconds with the family's fortune, she is forced to take matters into her own hands and plans to use her one marketable skill to teach the nouveau riche lessons in matters of propriety. However, getting a fresh start at the home that her aunt left for her and her sister in Chicago creates a whole new set of issues, not the least of which is a haunted castle. With the help of a local family and her wits and determination, Drusilla determines to follow through with her plan, no matter the obstacles that came her way. And you know with this author, the obstacles will be both incredible and hilarious. Between a vast menagerie of animals, ghost sightings, and the mysteries of both what happened to the man who stole their fortune and what happened to Aunt Ottilie, there was a great deal in this book that kept me turning pages.
This book had a good bit of everything - history, romance, mystery, ghost stories, pirate stories, Chicago mob bosses, animal comedy, wonderful characters and a fun story line. This was a thoroughly enjoyable ride from beginning to end. Though I would consider this to be "Christian light" in that the faith element was not front and center, there is mention of church and the story is completely clean. There was strong character development throughout and the characters were likable and relatable. Though the time in history is significantly male-dominated, the author creates believable strong female characters within the timeframe. And I appreciated the dichotomy between Elbert (the fiance at the beginning of the story) and Rhenick (the hero of the story) and how Drusilla's relationship with the first helped her to more greatly appreciate her relationship with the second. This story is the first in the series, and I find myself champing at the bit for the next story in this saga to see how things progress for our heroines. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
This book had a good bit of everything - history, romance, mystery, ghost stories, pirate stories, Chicago mob bosses, animal comedy, wonderful characters and a fun story line. This was a thoroughly enjoyable ride from beginning to end. Though I would consider this to be "Christian light" in that the faith element was not front and center, there is mention of church and the story is completely clean. There was strong character development throughout and the characters were likable and relatable. Though the time in history is significantly male-dominated, the author creates believable strong female characters within the timeframe. And I appreciated the dichotomy between Elbert (the fiance at the beginning of the story) and Rhenick (the hero of the story) and how Drusilla's relationship with the first helped her to more greatly appreciate her relationship with the second. This story is the first in the series, and I find myself champing at the bit for the next story in this saga to see how things progress for our heroines. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
May 12, 2025
Ms. Turano is always good for a hilarious time when I delve into her quirky historicals. This time the animal kingdom is on the attack- whether it is the pet ferrets or the goats, geese, and ravens that inhabit a rumored ghost-ridden castle.
Part of the New York society elite, Drusilla Merriweather, sister and mother have been cheated of their millions after the death of Mr. Merriweather. But Aunt Ottilie has gifted the girls with a castle in a newly affluent neighborhood in Chicago. Hijinks ensue when they encounter mobsters after their property which they want to turn into an Academy for teaching etiquette.
Ms Turano never ceases to amaze me with her turn of phrase and the antics of her characters and animals.
Mystery and mayhem, romance and riot, missing persons and mischief abound in this perfectly paced novel. The heroine is independent and set in her ways but the hero is just what she needs to help thwart the enemy.
I cannot wait for the next match-up in book two and some things to be resolved- the game is still afoot!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Part of the New York society elite, Drusilla Merriweather, sister and mother have been cheated of their millions after the death of Mr. Merriweather. But Aunt Ottilie has gifted the girls with a castle in a newly affluent neighborhood in Chicago. Hijinks ensue when they encounter mobsters after their property which they want to turn into an Academy for teaching etiquette.
Ms Turano never ceases to amaze me with her turn of phrase and the antics of her characters and animals.
Mystery and mayhem, romance and riot, missing persons and mischief abound in this perfectly paced novel. The heroine is independent and set in her ways but the hero is just what she needs to help thwart the enemy.
I cannot wait for the next match-up in book two and some things to be resolved- the game is still afoot!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
July 19, 2025
A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano
Synopsis /
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 armour and unexpected ghostly visitors—arise within the castle's 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.
My Thoughts /
LESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City's criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return.
If you like your historical-fiction stories to come with just a dash of romance, a generous pinch of humour, and a big dollop of sass; PLUS bonus lessons in the established standards of good and proper behaviour and manners (for a lady); then you need to read A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano.
It's NYC January 1885 - Miss Drusilla Merriweather sucked in a sharp breath, which immediately resulted in her choking on the sip of tea she’d just taken; upon hearing the news that her fiancé, Elbert Herrington had just delivered – he wanted to break off their engagement because, as he so ineloquently put it – 'not because you're too plump, prim, or proper – but because you are now all but penniless, or to put it bluntly…far too poor'.
Jen Turano has written a character driven novel which will have you feeling fully engaged with not just Drusilla, her mother and sisters but in fact, pretty much every character Turano has written into this story.
The Merriweather family is a member of the New York 400 – or should that now be 'was'. After her [Drusilla] father died, the Merriweather family fortune came under the control of the family's trusted solicitor, Mr Sanford Duncan. Sanford was not only the family solicitor, he was Morton Merriweather's best friend. But it turned out that Sanford Duncan was anything but a friend to the family – as not long after he'd taken control of the Merriweather millions, he absconded with the money while leaving behind outrageous debts he claimed were on behalf of the family.
Needing to sell their New York home to settle the debts Sanford Duncan had accumulated in their name, the Merriweather girls were on the cusp of being homeless. But good fortune was smiling when Drusilla and her sisters, Annaliese and Seraphina became aware that their Aunt Ottilie had transferred one of her properties into their name for safekeeping.
Arriving in Chicago the girls were aghast to find that the 'property' was actually a neglected castle. Even more frightening, there were rumours abound that the castle was haunted. Claims of ghosts moaning in the turrets and suits of armour stalking through the halls at night. So haunted in fact that all of Aunt Ottilie's staff had long since left; leaving just the groundskeeper remaining. But with nowhere else to go, Drusilla and her sisters roll up their sleeves and get to work making the castle at least inhabitable.
If the rumours and strange reported happenings weren't mysterious enough, there was a crowd of developers on her doorstep each wanting to buy the castle from her at an inflated price. If the castle was in such a rundown state of disrepair and was reportedly haunted by ghosts, why was it so popular with developers to buy? Not that Drusilla would have ever considered selling – this property had been in her family for hundreds of years and her Aunt Ottilie had now entrusted it to her and her sisters.
To save the family from financial ruin, Drusilla and her sisters decide to open a finishing school. With the help of architect, Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker (and his family) the Merriweather women defy the odds to make that happen.
I enjoyed every little thing about this story – from the haunted castle, to the cobwebs and hidden tunnels, the ghostly apparitions, the walking suits of armour, and all of the delightful animals that inhabit this draughty castle – the goats, the geese, the ravens and, of course, the ferret trio – Pippin, Wiggles and Fidget.
I am delightfully looking forward to receiving my next lesson in propriety, which I very much hope will be coming out soon!
Synopsis /
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 armour and unexpected ghostly visitors—arise within the castle's 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.
My Thoughts /
LESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City's criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return.
If you like your historical-fiction stories to come with just a dash of romance, a generous pinch of humour, and a big dollop of sass; PLUS bonus lessons in the established standards of good and proper behaviour and manners (for a lady); then you need to read A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano.
It's NYC January 1885 - Miss Drusilla Merriweather sucked in a sharp breath, which immediately resulted in her choking on the sip of tea she’d just taken; upon hearing the news that her fiancé, Elbert Herrington had just delivered – he wanted to break off their engagement because, as he so ineloquently put it – 'not because you're too plump, prim, or proper – but because you are now all but penniless, or to put it bluntly…far too poor'.
Jen Turano has written a character driven novel which will have you feeling fully engaged with not just Drusilla, her mother and sisters but in fact, pretty much every character Turano has written into this story.
The Merriweather family is a member of the New York 400 – or should that now be 'was'. After her [Drusilla] father died, the Merriweather family fortune came under the control of the family's trusted solicitor, Mr Sanford Duncan. Sanford was not only the family solicitor, he was Morton Merriweather's best friend. But it turned out that Sanford Duncan was anything but a friend to the family – as not long after he'd taken control of the Merriweather millions, he absconded with the money while leaving behind outrageous debts he claimed were on behalf of the family.
Needing to sell their New York home to settle the debts Sanford Duncan had accumulated in their name, the Merriweather girls were on the cusp of being homeless. But good fortune was smiling when Drusilla and her sisters, Annaliese and Seraphina became aware that their Aunt Ottilie had transferred one of her properties into their name for safekeeping.
Arriving in Chicago the girls were aghast to find that the 'property' was actually a neglected castle. Even more frightening, there were rumours abound that the castle was haunted. Claims of ghosts moaning in the turrets and suits of armour stalking through the halls at night. So haunted in fact that all of Aunt Ottilie's staff had long since left; leaving just the groundskeeper remaining. But with nowhere else to go, Drusilla and her sisters roll up their sleeves and get to work making the castle at least inhabitable.
If the rumours and strange reported happenings weren't mysterious enough, there was a crowd of developers on her doorstep each wanting to buy the castle from her at an inflated price. If the castle was in such a rundown state of disrepair and was reportedly haunted by ghosts, why was it so popular with developers to buy? Not that Drusilla would have ever considered selling – this property had been in her family for hundreds of years and her Aunt Ottilie had now entrusted it to her and her sisters.
To save the family from financial ruin, Drusilla and her sisters decide to open a finishing school. With the help of architect, Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker (and his family) the Merriweather women defy the odds to make that happen.
I enjoyed every little thing about this story – from the haunted castle, to the cobwebs and hidden tunnels, the ghostly apparitions, the walking suits of armour, and all of the delightful animals that inhabit this draughty castle – the goats, the geese, the ravens and, of course, the ferret trio – Pippin, Wiggles and Fidget.
I am delightfully looking forward to receiving my next lesson in propriety, which I very much hope will be coming out soon!
June 2, 2025
"𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐲 𝐢𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐠𝐨 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐑𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐤. 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲. 𝐀𝐧𝐝, 𝐢𝐟 𝐈'𝐦 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐈 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠."
Jen Turano is one of those authors that just never lets you down with her books! I'd been so excited for this one for months, and it was just as amazing as I figured it would be! 🩷
It starts out with Drusilla's (and like usual, Jen came up with the most hilarious, fantastic names!! 😂) intended, deciding they shouldn't get married, due to her lack of funds. She then finds out that her aunt Ottilie left her and her sister, a castle. So they then decide to move to this castle, since it's all they have left, and that is when the adventure begins! 😅 There's attacking ferrets and "ghosts" and knight armor somehow walking through the night...and soo much more that will make you laugh so hard and want more! 🩷
If you enjoy clean, sweet historical romance, full of hilarious moments, then I highly recommend this one!! 🩷
*I received a paperback copy for review, all opinions are my own
Jen Turano is one of those authors that just never lets you down with her books! I'd been so excited for this one for months, and it was just as amazing as I figured it would be! 🩷
It starts out with Drusilla's (and like usual, Jen came up with the most hilarious, fantastic names!! 😂) intended, deciding they shouldn't get married, due to her lack of funds. She then finds out that her aunt Ottilie left her and her sister, a castle. So they then decide to move to this castle, since it's all they have left, and that is when the adventure begins! 😅 There's attacking ferrets and "ghosts" and knight armor somehow walking through the night...and soo much more that will make you laugh so hard and want more! 🩷
If you enjoy clean, sweet historical romance, full of hilarious moments, then I highly recommend this one!! 🩷
*I received a paperback copy for review, all opinions are my own
May 22, 2025
Nothing makes me smile and laugh more than a new Jen Turano book. She has such a fascinating way of writing - her voice in historical romcom is my favorite. I laugh on almost every page, and yet she still manages to include moments of mystery and seriousness when appropriate.
Drusilla is such a wonderful character. I believe if I lived in this make believe story that her and I would be great friends. She’s smart, witty, quick on her feet, and of course very proper. She’s not a size two and isn’t afraid to put a big ole piece of cake in her mouth lol. But she’s also fiercely determined to help her family and I found that to be very admirable.
Then we have Rhenick - someone who wasn’t expecting to love another and yet declared marriage after a first meeting. Oh his fondness of Drusilla was so sweet to read. And he had quite the laughs himself over different things that happened in the story.
All in all A Lesson in Propriety is a comical and beautiful story about love, family, and appreciating people for who they are. I’m especially excited for Annaliese’s story. She also seems like a woman I could be friends with!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Drusilla is such a wonderful character. I believe if I lived in this make believe story that her and I would be great friends. She’s smart, witty, quick on her feet, and of course very proper. She’s not a size two and isn’t afraid to put a big ole piece of cake in her mouth lol. But she’s also fiercely determined to help her family and I found that to be very admirable.
Then we have Rhenick - someone who wasn’t expecting to love another and yet declared marriage after a first meeting. Oh his fondness of Drusilla was so sweet to read. And he had quite the laughs himself over different things that happened in the story.
All in all A Lesson in Propriety is a comical and beautiful story about love, family, and appreciating people for who they are. I’m especially excited for Annaliese’s story. She also seems like a woman I could be friends with!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 3, 2025
Story Enjoyment Rating: 9.5/10 Christian Faith Rating: 1.5/3
This is the first book in Jen Turano’s current Merryweather Academy for Young Ladies series.
The story follows Drusilla Merryweather, whose fiancé breaks up with her after her father dies and his secretary absconds with all the business funds, leaving Drusilla without any financial means. In a mysterious twist, she is “gifted” the keys to a gothic-style castle in Chicago by her aunt, who has also mysteriously gone off travelling. Drusilla, along with her sister and mother, decides to use the castle to set up a finishing school for young ladies, focused on propriety. However, there’s a catch: the castle has a reputation for being haunted.
Set in 1885, the story begins in New York before moving to Chicago. It is primarily a historical romance but also incorporates elements of mystery and suspense. Despite these elements, the book maintains a light-hearted, comedic tone, ensuring it’s never dark or particularly scary. It’s definitely the kind of exciting, fun-to-read story that avoids anything gory.
One of the standout features of the book is its eccentric cast of characters. They’re strong, with their own quirky personalities, which adds a lot to the fun. The circumstances in the story are often slightly ridiculous and not entirely realistic, but that’s part of the charm!
There are occasional references to Christian faith scattered throughout the book, although it’s not a central theme.
This is the first book in Jen Turano’s current Merryweather Academy for Young Ladies series.
The story follows Drusilla Merryweather, whose fiancé breaks up with her after her father dies and his secretary absconds with all the business funds, leaving Drusilla without any financial means. In a mysterious twist, she is “gifted” the keys to a gothic-style castle in Chicago by her aunt, who has also mysteriously gone off travelling. Drusilla, along with her sister and mother, decides to use the castle to set up a finishing school for young ladies, focused on propriety. However, there’s a catch: the castle has a reputation for being haunted.
Set in 1885, the story begins in New York before moving to Chicago. It is primarily a historical romance but also incorporates elements of mystery and suspense. Despite these elements, the book maintains a light-hearted, comedic tone, ensuring it’s never dark or particularly scary. It’s definitely the kind of exciting, fun-to-read story that avoids anything gory.
One of the standout features of the book is its eccentric cast of characters. They’re strong, with their own quirky personalities, which adds a lot to the fun. The circumstances in the story are often slightly ridiculous and not entirely realistic, but that’s part of the charm!
There are occasional references to Christian faith scattered throughout the book, although it’s not a central theme.
did-not-finish
May 28, 2025I enjoy Jen Turano’s books and quirky humour but for some reason I cannot get myself into this book. This is a temporary dnf until I feel the need for humorous banter and a lighthearted storyline.
May 22, 2025
Every time I read the brand new Jen Turano release, I am certain she can't top her pervious stories. EVERY SINGLE TIME, she proves me wrong! Jen's ability to weave the tales she does is masterful, and let's not forget her ability to add the most hysterically funny scenes into her stories. "A Lesson in Propriety," is a wonderful mix of mystery, danger, comedy, fabulous characters and the setup for what promises to be a rip-roaring good time for the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series. I am here for it! I loved everything about this story and can't wait for more from Jen!
June 30, 2025
You truly cannot go wrong with a Jen Turano book! Immediately your cares will melt away and you know you will get in a great chuckle! I read this outdoors enjoying the sunshine and I am sure that my neighbors and people walking by thought I was crazy when I was reading this. I love this new setting of Chicago, typically we are in New York or Newport but this setting involving a castle was rather nice and quite adventurous, mysterious and overall fun!
Drusilla Merriweather newly disengaged and without any money decides to head to Chicago and open an academy for young ladies to teach them how to be proper and have the etiquette required for high society. All things go array when the criminal underworld wants her house and ghosts seem to be in premises. I loved the characters in the story! To say they are quite eccentric would be an understatement. It is quite hilarious the antics they get into!
The love interest Rhenick Wittenbecker is so adorable! You can't help but fall for him and I am so glad that Drusilla finally sees that throughout the story but boy does she make him work for it!
Seriously, if you enjoy Jen Turano books or books that will make you chuckle in the middle of a quiet moment then this is the book for you!
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are my own.
Drusilla Merriweather newly disengaged and without any money decides to head to Chicago and open an academy for young ladies to teach them how to be proper and have the etiquette required for high society. All things go array when the criminal underworld wants her house and ghosts seem to be in premises. I loved the characters in the story! To say they are quite eccentric would be an understatement. It is quite hilarious the antics they get into!
The love interest Rhenick Wittenbecker is so adorable! You can't help but fall for him and I am so glad that Drusilla finally sees that throughout the story but boy does she make him work for it!
Seriously, if you enjoy Jen Turano books or books that will make you chuckle in the middle of a quiet moment then this is the book for you!
I received this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are my own.
June 25, 2025
I liked the gothic setting complete with Turano’s classic slapstick comedy and interesting mystery. I liked the fortitude of the main character as she sets out to care for her family after suffering from a cruel disengagement. I think the following books on the series will be fun and I look forward to reading of future student mischief. The romance was charming as well. My all-time fave of Turano’s is “Playing the Part” and I think she does the gothic quite well.
June 2, 2025
Jen Turano is definitely one of those authors who writes and I must read. I have not been disappointed by her books ever. Though I will say, A Lesson in Properiety is probably one of my absolute favorites that she has written thus far! This book had so many moments where I was cracking up. Jen Turano is definitely known for blending the funny, mystery, and romance but I think this is one of the funnier ones by her I've read in awhile. The whole "gate incident" had me rolling. I was like what in the hilarity is going on! And there were lots of twists and turns to keep my guessing. Some I kind of picked up on and others I did not. It certainly kept me intrigued.
Then don't get me started on Rhenick!! Rhenick is the quintessential cinnamon roll, golden retriever book boyfriend that women swoon over. But he's not afraid to come to blows to defend the woman who's caught his eye. Believe me, because this actually happened! I absolutely adored him, even if he did stick his foot in his mouth. I also love that Turano can write women who truly can stand up for themselves, like Drusilla, but also find the benefit of falling for the man who could help and cherish them. I highly recommend this book!
Then don't get me started on Rhenick!! Rhenick is the quintessential cinnamon roll, golden retriever book boyfriend that women swoon over. But he's not afraid to come to blows to defend the woman who's caught his eye. Believe me, because this actually happened! I absolutely adored him, even if he did stick his foot in his mouth. I also love that Turano can write women who truly can stand up for themselves, like Drusilla, but also find the benefit of falling for the man who could help and cherish them. I highly recommend this book!
March 28, 2025
Jen Turano absolutely never fails to deliver stories with strong and independent heroines with all the sass that will have me laughing out loud every time... and this one was absolutely no exception. Right away, Druscilla's character drew me in... using her broken engagement to her advantage to start a new adventure with her family... opening a new finishing school! There are definitely some strange happenings going on at the castle she's inherited from her aunt... which only leads to more of the author's signature humorous moments. Rhenick was such a perfect match to Druscilla, despite her initial protests and I couldn't help but enjoy the banter between them. This was such a fun start to the series and I am excited to see what kind of mischief the ladies at the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies are going to get up to next in the series! I cannot wait. If you love Christian historical romance that will have your laughing out loud, this is one not to be missed.
**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
What an unexpected treat this book was! This is not your average historical fiction novel folks. The first chapter had me cracking up and reads more like a historical RomCom. Our FMC, Drusilla Merriweather, won me over immediately with her straightforward and no-nonsense personality. She speaks her mind and isn’t easily intimidated by men. She’s very determined to pave a way for independence in a time when an independent woman is far from fashionable.
Drusilla’s fiancé just dumped her – and trust me, that opening chapter where the dumping happens will have you wanting to give a standing ovation to our FMC. Now left without a prospect for marriage and no money of her own, she’s determined to find a path forward WITHOUT a man and decides to embrace the idea of a future as a spinster.
Drusilla winds up inheriting her aunt’s seemingly haunted castle estate and has her heart set on transforming the property into a finishing school. Easier said than done when criminal developers are set on claiming the property as their own and will go to any length to make that happen.
When architect Rhenick Wittenbacker enters the scene, Drusilla’s plans to stay happily single wind up tested. Rhenick is kind, considerate, handsome and finds Drusilla’s independence to be quite an attractive challenge. Together these two tackle the mysterious ghostly occurrences within the castle, take on kidnappings and all sorts of chaos. The perfect recipe for adventure coupled with swoony moments.
Lighthearted, funny, inspirational and an all-around unique story. I can’t wait to see where this series continues to take us with the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
What an unexpected treat this book was! This is not your average historical fiction novel folks. The first chapter had me cracking up and reads more like a historical RomCom. Our FMC, Drusilla Merriweather, won me over immediately with her straightforward and no-nonsense personality. She speaks her mind and isn’t easily intimidated by men. She’s very determined to pave a way for independence in a time when an independent woman is far from fashionable.
Drusilla’s fiancé just dumped her – and trust me, that opening chapter where the dumping happens will have you wanting to give a standing ovation to our FMC. Now left without a prospect for marriage and no money of her own, she’s determined to find a path forward WITHOUT a man and decides to embrace the idea of a future as a spinster.
Drusilla winds up inheriting her aunt’s seemingly haunted castle estate and has her heart set on transforming the property into a finishing school. Easier said than done when criminal developers are set on claiming the property as their own and will go to any length to make that happen.
When architect Rhenick Wittenbacker enters the scene, Drusilla’s plans to stay happily single wind up tested. Rhenick is kind, considerate, handsome and finds Drusilla’s independence to be quite an attractive challenge. Together these two tackle the mysterious ghostly occurrences within the castle, take on kidnappings and all sorts of chaos. The perfect recipe for adventure coupled with swoony moments.
Lighthearted, funny, inspirational and an all-around unique story. I can’t wait to see where this series continues to take us with the Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
August 10, 2025
“You’re breaking our engagement?”
“I think it would be better if you’d do the breaking.”
“Better for whom?”
And with that, Miss Drusilla Merriweather’s story takes off—in the most wildly entertaining, completely outrageous, and utterly delightful way.
A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is exactly what I needed. No one writes eccentric characters, comedic chaos, and swoony clean romance quite like she does. I laughed out loud (multiple times), swooned for a gallant and good-hearted architect, and flew through every single page.
Drusilla is strong, stubborn, and fiercely independent—and the MMC, Mr. Wittenbecker, is absolutely put through the wringer when it comes to her antics (and her haunted castle😅). But you know it’s true love when he doesn’t even flinch at ghostly visitors, trickery, or being caught in the middle of Chicago’s underworld.
There’s crime bosses. There’s kidnapping. There’s finishing school shenanigans. There are weapons being used by people who probably shouldn’t be using them. And somehow—it all works brilliantly.
This is the start of a new series and I already NEED books for two of the side characters. (Cannot wait!)
If you need a read to lift your mood and make you laugh while delivering a charming slow-burn romance, this is it!
A Lesson in Propriety is available now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: broken engagement, mild peril/action/violence, kidnapping, hilariously outrageous situations, romance—kisses only.
“I think it would be better if you’d do the breaking.”
“Better for whom?”
And with that, Miss Drusilla Merriweather’s story takes off—in the most wildly entertaining, completely outrageous, and utterly delightful way.
A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano is exactly what I needed. No one writes eccentric characters, comedic chaos, and swoony clean romance quite like she does. I laughed out loud (multiple times), swooned for a gallant and good-hearted architect, and flew through every single page.
Drusilla is strong, stubborn, and fiercely independent—and the MMC, Mr. Wittenbecker, is absolutely put through the wringer when it comes to her antics (and her haunted castle😅). But you know it’s true love when he doesn’t even flinch at ghostly visitors, trickery, or being caught in the middle of Chicago’s underworld.
There’s crime bosses. There’s kidnapping. There’s finishing school shenanigans. There are weapons being used by people who probably shouldn’t be using them. And somehow—it all works brilliantly.
This is the start of a new series and I already NEED books for two of the side characters. (Cannot wait!)
If you need a read to lift your mood and make you laugh while delivering a charming slow-burn romance, this is it!
A Lesson in Propriety is available now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: broken engagement, mild peril/action/violence, kidnapping, hilariously outrageous situations, romance—kisses only.
June 6, 2025
A wonderful mix of romance, humor and mystery. And a not your average heroine.
I really liked the romance in the story, well her second romance that is. When Drusilla is cast aside by her fiance and left destitute, I'm glad she got rid of him fast! I also love stories of historical ladies taking matters into their own hands and creating a business for themselves. In this case, finding an inherited Castle and turning it into a school for ladies! I can't wait to enjoy the second book.
*Thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
I really liked the romance in the story, well her second romance that is. When Drusilla is cast aside by her fiance and left destitute, I'm glad she got rid of him fast! I also love stories of historical ladies taking matters into their own hands and creating a business for themselves. In this case, finding an inherited Castle and turning it into a school for ladies! I can't wait to enjoy the second book.
*Thank you to Bethany House for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
May 14, 2025
What a delight this story was to read! I laughed, giggled, and smiled my way through its pages. Jen Turano never disappoints if you’re looking for a book to make you smile!
After losing her fortune and her good-for-nothing fiancé, New York heiress Drusilla Merriweather finds herself with one remaining option- to open an academy for young ladies in a castle in Chicago. But on arrival she finds it’s filled with goats, ravens, and… ghosts? The last thing she wants is her new neighbor to propose on the spot!
Amidst the animal antics (attack ferrets, anyone?), mysterious happenings (walking armor!?), a castle full of hidden passages and secrets, and the threats from Chicago’s underworld (and maybe even closer to home), Drusilla starts to wonder if maybe she judged the handsome man with four sisters and unending patience a little too quickly!
This romance is hilarious and unexpected and sweet. Full of misadventures and mystery, I kept turning the pages to find out what would happen next. The entire cast of characters is so interesting! I’m so excited about the books in the rest of the series and I’m lamenting the coming wait!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not asked to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own.
After losing her fortune and her good-for-nothing fiancé, New York heiress Drusilla Merriweather finds herself with one remaining option- to open an academy for young ladies in a castle in Chicago. But on arrival she finds it’s filled with goats, ravens, and… ghosts? The last thing she wants is her new neighbor to propose on the spot!
Amidst the animal antics (attack ferrets, anyone?), mysterious happenings (walking armor!?), a castle full of hidden passages and secrets, and the threats from Chicago’s underworld (and maybe even closer to home), Drusilla starts to wonder if maybe she judged the handsome man with four sisters and unending patience a little too quickly!
This romance is hilarious and unexpected and sweet. Full of misadventures and mystery, I kept turning the pages to find out what would happen next. The entire cast of characters is so interesting! I’m so excited about the books in the rest of the series and I’m lamenting the coming wait!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not asked to leave a positive review and my opinions are my own.
April 8, 2025
I adore Jen Turano. Her books are always laugh-out-loud funny and they put me in such a good mood. A Lesson in Propriety is no exception. We get a brief glimpse into "high society" (or maybe not...) in Chicago rather than the New York Four Hundred and the Knickerbockers. While Rhenick and Drusilla are your classic Turano couple with a hilarious, yet sweet romance, the actual memorable characters for me were her secondary characters. Jen Turano has written supporting characters that are quirky and go against the societal grain. This might be one of my favorite books of Turano's. I hope it becomes an audiobook because the dialogue in this novel is so good that it needs to be read aloud.
A special thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for this complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
A special thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for this complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 25, 2025
In classic Jen Turano fashion, this book was an absolute pleasure to read. It's so exciting starting a new series and meeting (some of) the characters who will feature in the coming books. I loved how Jen continued to branch out from New York/Northeastern settings introduce us to Gilded Age Chicago. And thankfully Chicago has just as many strong women and surprising characters as New York does. This book was quite a ride, absolutely zany in some places, and laugh-out-loud funny at times. Drusilla (and her family) and Rhenick (and HIS family) were so entertaining. I absolutely recommend this book and can't wait to see what comes next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
June 26, 2025
This book was so much fun and the premise was fantastic. Between losing a fortune, having a fiancé that ended the engagement, inheriting a haunted castle, making plans to open a finishing school, and meeting unsavory people that were hoping to purchase the castle, Drusilla had a lot on her plate. But, with aid from Rhenick, an architect who promised to help, little did she expect to find love in the midst of all of this chaos.
The really was an adventure. The story itself had me hooked from page one. With funny parts, quirky characters, and sweet moments, I could not stop reading.
Rhenick was charming, and an absolute gentleman. Did he know them at the beginning? No, just their late aunt. But was he willing to help? Absolutely! And watching his romance with Drusilla develop? It added that much more to the plot.
Drusilla from the first chapter was hilarious. Her wit was spot on, and she was the epitome of a “strong, independent woman”. Her determination was amazing. I really appreciated how she held her own, did not stand back from any deterrents. She just pushed forward.
And the plot? It had so much happening, but flowed well. Any easy, quick read that I didn’t want it to end.
This clean romance really is the beginning of what I think will be a great new series. And I’m very, very excited to read the next one when it’s released! If you’re looking for a new, funny, lighter historical fiction romance, I’d recommend checking this one out!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from Baker Publishing Group and Bethany House Publishers. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
The really was an adventure. The story itself had me hooked from page one. With funny parts, quirky characters, and sweet moments, I could not stop reading.
Rhenick was charming, and an absolute gentleman. Did he know them at the beginning? No, just their late aunt. But was he willing to help? Absolutely! And watching his romance with Drusilla develop? It added that much more to the plot.
Drusilla from the first chapter was hilarious. Her wit was spot on, and she was the epitome of a “strong, independent woman”. Her determination was amazing. I really appreciated how she held her own, did not stand back from any deterrents. She just pushed forward.
And the plot? It had so much happening, but flowed well. Any easy, quick read that I didn’t want it to end.
This clean romance really is the beginning of what I think will be a great new series. And I’m very, very excited to read the next one when it’s released! If you’re looking for a new, funny, lighter historical fiction romance, I’d recommend checking this one out!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from Baker Publishing Group and Bethany House Publishers. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
June 27, 2025
Will her tenacity & his persistence save the day...
There is very little in the realm of historical romantic fiction as delightful as diving into a Jen Turano novel. I have been a fan for over a decade, I think the first one I read was her second novel, and I am still every bit as excited for each new release.
A Lesson In Propriety had all of the wonderful things that I've come to expect from a Jen Turano novel as well as some surprises along the way. Between some small protective pets, a kidnapping, midnight hauntings, a botched proposal, and a wild carriage ride, I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
Drusilla and Rhenick had me laughing aloud as they made their way from suspicion to a sweet and charming romance. The two characters are perfect for each other and you can't help but fall a little bit in love with them. The great news is that this is the first book in the Merriweather Academy For Young Ladies series so I didn't have to fully say goodbye when I turned that last page.
It was a lot of fun to start a new Jen Turano series and I finished A Lesson In Propriety in record time thanks to my inability to put it down. I definitely loved this first Merriweather Academy For Young Ladies novel and now I am beyond eagerly awaiting the next book in the series....
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
There is very little in the realm of historical romantic fiction as delightful as diving into a Jen Turano novel. I have been a fan for over a decade, I think the first one I read was her second novel, and I am still every bit as excited for each new release.
A Lesson In Propriety had all of the wonderful things that I've come to expect from a Jen Turano novel as well as some surprises along the way. Between some small protective pets, a kidnapping, midnight hauntings, a botched proposal, and a wild carriage ride, I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
Drusilla and Rhenick had me laughing aloud as they made their way from suspicion to a sweet and charming romance. The two characters are perfect for each other and you can't help but fall a little bit in love with them. The great news is that this is the first book in the Merriweather Academy For Young Ladies series so I didn't have to fully say goodbye when I turned that last page.
It was a lot of fun to start a new Jen Turano series and I finished A Lesson In Propriety in record time thanks to my inability to put it down. I definitely loved this first Merriweather Academy For Young Ladies novel and now I am beyond eagerly awaiting the next book in the series....
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
July 16, 2025
Another fun book by author Jen Turano! What a creative idea and story! From New York high society to Chicago’s she takes us on quite the unique journey. And because the author has a unique style her characters go through much mischief and mayhem! I found myself laughing and intrigued throughout the book trying to figure out the mystery. Definitely loving this new series! I can’t wait to read more. I listened to the audio and it was well done. I also received an electronic copy of the book from the publisher and all views stated here are my own.
August 22, 2025
This was a fun book. It was very silly and a lot ridiculous and highly entertaining. It is not deep or serious, even in the more “mysterious” parts. It looks like it is the first in a series and I hope the next book is about Saraphina as that would be a story I would like to read.
June 18, 2025
A Lesson in Propriety is the first book in JenTurano’s Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies Series. It was a delightful historical romance with a touch of mystery and suspense, a lot of humorous moments, and a lovely romance.
I adored the MCs, Drusilla and Rhenick, and I loved that the story featured strong and intelligent women. There were some unexpected twists that I enjoyed, and the historical aspects of the Gilded Age were very interesting.
With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and intriguing plot, this book is a great read for fans of historical romance and cozy mysteries.
I received a complementary copy, but a positive review was not required.
I adored the MCs, Drusilla and Rhenick, and I loved that the story featured strong and intelligent women. There were some unexpected twists that I enjoyed, and the historical aspects of the Gilded Age were very interesting.
With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and intriguing plot, this book is a great read for fans of historical romance and cozy mysteries.
I received a complementary copy, but a positive review was not required.
August 25, 2025
This book is fabulous! Laugh out loud moments throughout the entire book along with mystery and romance. 5 Stars !
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