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Apart from the Crowd #2
Out of the Ordinary
Working as a paid companion may be quite commonplace, but Miss Gertrude Cadwalader's eccentric employer makes her job unpredictable, to say the least. She finds herself carrying out an array of highly unusual tasks, including wearing peculiar outfits and returning items the woman pilfered. But when the wealthy Mrs. Sinclair catches Gertrude sneaking around the Sinclair yacht with some of the missing items in her possession, she immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion.
Shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair is caught in the middle of a misunderstanding between his mother and Gertrude, but he can't help coming to his friend's defense. Even as he hopes their friendship might become something more, Harrison is unprepared for the outlandish escapades that seem to follow the lovely, anything-but-ordinary Gertrude at every turn.
Shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair is caught in the middle of a misunderstanding between his mother and Gertrude, but he can't help coming to his friend's defense. Even as he hopes their friendship might become something more, Harrison is unprepared for the outlandish escapades that seem to follow the lovely, anything-but-ordinary Gertrude at every turn.
346 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2017
159 people are currently reading
1313 people want to read
About the author
Jen Turano
31 books1,994 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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November 19, 2017
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November 27, 2017
About this book:
“Miss Gertrude Cadwalader hoped her position as the paid companion to Mrs. Davenport would be easy. But as she becomes acquainted with her employer, she realizes the wealthy Mrs. Davenport has a strange tendency to be a bit light-fingered with other people's trinkets. Gertrude is relieved when Mrs. Davenport decides to have a quiet summer away from the social scene--until the woman changes her mind in order to help a young socialite launch into society.
When Gertrude is caught in the act of trying to return one of the trinkets by Mrs. Sinclair, the mother of shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, the woman jumps to an unfortunate conclusion. Harrison is determined to mend fences with Miss Cadwalader, but he's unprepared for the escapades a friendship with her will entail.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Apart From the Crowd” series. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned & read; Church going & discussion about God; Many Talks about God, forgiveness, churches, & sermons; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Gertrude says her relationship with God has suffered & is angry at Him *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Harrison witnesses/talks to Gertrude about God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles; Mentions of faiths; Mentions of churches, church going, reverends, sermons, & services; A few mentions of stained glass of those from the Bible; A few mentions of blessing & being blessed; A couple mentions of thanking God;
*Note: Mentions of superstitions & luck; A few mentions of ghosts & a haunted ship.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘idiot’s; Some Sass & Eye rolling; Many mentions of criminals/thieves/con-artists, stealing/skullduggery, stolen items, & robberies/heists; Mentions of suicides & thinking someone might be suicidal (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of being injured & rescue attempts (Book #1); Mentions of fighting, brawls, & threats of physical violence; Mentions of abuse, being slapped/hit, pain, & bruises (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of arrests, jails, & prisons; Mentions of alcohol, social drinking, & drinking too much; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of murder & a murderer; A few mentions of fevers & deaths; A few mentions of threats; A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of gambling & a casino.
Sexual Content- two almost kisses, four hand kisses, two forehead kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; A bit of staring at other’s lips; Touches, Warmth, & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; Mentions of scandals, a house of ill repute, & married men keeping mistresses (including Gertrude’s father); Mentions of hand kisses; Mentions of flirting & swooning; Mentions of reputations; Mentions of romance books; A couple mentions of kissing; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of chaperones; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of backsides & unmentionables; Mentions of someone being scantily dressed; Mentions of women’s (physical) charms & figures; A couple mentions of a woman accidentally flashing her legs.
-Gertrude Cadwalader
-Harrison Sinclair
P.O.V. switches between them {Epilogue in Mrs. Davenport’s}
Set in 1883
346 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Four Stars (and a half)
Okay, another cute one by Jen Turano, y’all!
If you’ve read & enjoyed any of her books before, that’s all I should need to say for you to know that I enjoyed this new one and you should pick it up.
But, since I’m trying to get better with more eloquent final thoughts (ha), let me share a bit on why I enjoyed this newest novel so much:
~
First things first: I will say that what the back-cover talks about doesn’t happen until about halfway through the book. That’s not to say that the first half isn’t entertaining, it so is, but I do feel like the back-cover does spoiler a bit. There’s also a tiny bit of head-jumping, but it’s not so noticeable.
Character wise!
Harrison.
Harrison is my favorite.
I want more Harrisons in Christian Fiction.
Harrison gets so lost and confused with different conversations. It’s great. It’s a condition he suffers frequently in this messy business called life. (pg. 272) When Harrison & Asher got to together & started talking (like, about romance novels and romantic gestures) I was literally crying from laughing so hard. I love their friendship.
The dialogue and wordings in Jen Turano’s books are absolutely hilarious and “Out of the Ordinary” is no expectation!
There also seemed to be a lot more faith content that I remember her past books having, which I also loved about this one! Gertie was a doll and I loved seeing her with her friends as well.
~
Ahh, okay, was that convincing enough? Needless to say, I am SO looking forward to the next book in this series! :)
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.
“Miss Gertrude Cadwalader hoped her position as the paid companion to Mrs. Davenport would be easy. But as she becomes acquainted with her employer, she realizes the wealthy Mrs. Davenport has a strange tendency to be a bit light-fingered with other people's trinkets. Gertrude is relieved when Mrs. Davenport decides to have a quiet summer away from the social scene--until the woman changes her mind in order to help a young socialite launch into society.
When Gertrude is caught in the act of trying to return one of the trinkets by Mrs. Sinclair, the mother of shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, the woman jumps to an unfortunate conclusion. Harrison is determined to mend fences with Miss Cadwalader, but he's unprepared for the escapades a friendship with her will entail.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Apart From the Crowd” series. Review of Book #1 Here!
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned & read; Church going & discussion about God; Many Talks about God, forgiveness, churches, & sermons; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Gertrude says her relationship with God has suffered & is angry at Him *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Harrison witnesses/talks to Gertrude about God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles; Mentions of faiths; Mentions of churches, church going, reverends, sermons, & services; A few mentions of stained glass of those from the Bible; A few mentions of blessing & being blessed; A couple mentions of thanking God;
*Note: Mentions of superstitions & luck; A few mentions of ghosts & a haunted ship.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘idiot’s; Some Sass & Eye rolling; Many mentions of criminals/thieves/con-artists, stealing/skullduggery, stolen items, & robberies/heists; Mentions of suicides & thinking someone might be suicidal (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of being injured & rescue attempts (Book #1); Mentions of fighting, brawls, & threats of physical violence; Mentions of abuse, being slapped/hit, pain, & bruises (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of arrests, jails, & prisons; Mentions of alcohol, social drinking, & drinking too much; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of murder & a murderer; A few mentions of fevers & deaths; A few mentions of threats; A few mentions of blackmail; A few mentions of gambling & a casino.
Sexual Content- two almost kisses, four hand kisses, two forehead kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; A bit of staring at other’s lips; Touches, Warmth, & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; Mentions of scandals, a house of ill repute, & married men keeping mistresses (including Gertrude’s father); Mentions of hand kisses; Mentions of flirting & swooning; Mentions of reputations; Mentions of romance books; A couple mentions of kissing; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of chaperones; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of backsides & unmentionables; Mentions of someone being scantily dressed; Mentions of women’s (physical) charms & figures; A couple mentions of a woman accidentally flashing her legs.
-Gertrude Cadwalader
-Harrison Sinclair
P.O.V. switches between them {Epilogue in Mrs. Davenport’s}
Set in 1883
346 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Four Stars (and a half)
Okay, another cute one by Jen Turano, y’all!
If you’ve read & enjoyed any of her books before, that’s all I should need to say for you to know that I enjoyed this new one and you should pick it up.
But, since I’m trying to get better with more eloquent final thoughts (ha), let me share a bit on why I enjoyed this newest novel so much:
~
First things first: I will say that what the back-cover talks about doesn’t happen until about halfway through the book. That’s not to say that the first half isn’t entertaining, it so is, but I do feel like the back-cover does spoiler a bit. There’s also a tiny bit of head-jumping, but it’s not so noticeable.
Character wise!
Harrison.
Harrison is my favorite.
I want more Harrisons in Christian Fiction.
Harrison gets so lost and confused with different conversations. It’s great. It’s a condition he suffers frequently in this messy business called life. (pg. 272) When Harrison & Asher got to together & started talking (like, about romance novels and romantic gestures) I was literally crying from laughing so hard. I love their friendship.
The dialogue and wordings in Jen Turano’s books are absolutely hilarious and “Out of the Ordinary” is no expectation!
There also seemed to be a lot more faith content that I remember her past books having, which I also loved about this one! Gertie was a doll and I loved seeing her with her friends as well.
~
Ahh, okay, was that convincing enough? Needless to say, I am SO looking forward to the next book in this series! :)
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.
August 4, 2019
I enjoyed the hijinks of Mrs. Davenport and how things ended for her. While I liked both main characters, overall this novel wasn't my favorite Turano. Look forward to continuing the series.
March 14, 2022
The books in this series are so outlandish and full of really unlikely characters that I just cannot stop laughing while reading!
They're fun and light!
Here we have the poor Gertrude running like crazy to return things her employer stole to their rightful owners and getting caught - poor soul! LMAOOO
We aslo see her rebelling and growing a back-bone! And that was fun too!
Add to all of that Harrison who doesn't know what to do and what to think!
A great fun as usual!
They're fun and light!
Here we have the poor Gertrude running like crazy to return things her employer stole to their rightful owners and getting caught - poor soul! LMAOOO
We aslo see her rebelling and growing a back-bone! And that was fun too!
Add to all of that Harrison who doesn't know what to do and what to think!
A great fun as usual!
Read
February 2, 2025DNF
Book 2 in this series was sadly too silly and not terribly compelling so after reading about 20% I sent it back to the library. Waving goodbye to this series.
Book 2 in this series was sadly too silly and not terribly compelling so after reading about 20% I sent it back to the library. Waving goodbye to this series.
January 31, 2018
Ah... Jen's books are always so very fun to read! That's why I like them so much. They're unusual and wholly unbelievable, but they make me laugh and I dearly love a laugh! :)
This book was, as I expected, a lot of fun and quite the adventure at times! There are some deeper, more difficult topics in this book, but as a whole I would consider it a comedy. Sometimes, the characters and situations are completely absurd, but that's what makes it so funny! (If you're a fan of classic films, I might compare it to something like "The Court Jester" or some other similar movie. If you don't understand that reference... then all I can say is that you need to go watch that movie. You'll thank me later. ;) )
I think I can honestly say that my favorite part of this story, and of the series in general so far, is Harrison. He is just..... he's such a lovable sweetheart! He's a wonderful brother and I love that about him! A hero that's a good brother always gets to me and Harrison's got that roll nailed. He obviously loves his sisters, even if he does find them exasperatingly baffling most of the time. He cares about them and for them. And all of that translates over into his relationship with Gertrude (who I also love) in a really sweet way. He's also a good and loyal friend. And while I'm pretty sure his clothing choices would probably drive me bonkers... I guess it does say something for him that he wasn't so extremely concerned with what people thought of his sense of fashion.
Gertrude is frustrating at times, mostly because of all the things she lets Mrs. Davenport get away with, but the more I got to know her, the more I loved her and I was somewhat better able to understand where she was coming from. Going into too much detail on that would be a spoiler so I won't say anything more, except that she has a very sad past and I know it would be difficult for anyone to overcome some of what she went through. She is compassionate and loyal and the type of person I think I would enjoy calling a friend.
I did wish for a little more in certain areas. I was really hoping for some more information on Harrison's colorblindness, yet at the same time, I wasn't surprised when it wasn't explored further. And Temperance's seeming about-face was kind of abrupt, but I thought that might be explained more in the next book. I hope it is. And I wish we knew more about Harrison's family! Seems like there could easily be a series written about his sisters... Would that be too much to hope for? And I felt like Mrs. Davenport's situation could have been expounded upon further. It just felt like there would be more behind her character and personality than what we were given in the story.
One thing upset me. At one point, the pastor says that he's delivered several sermons that centered around the truth that everyone is worthy of God's grace. That is not true. Grace is, by definition, unmerited. It is impossible to be worthy of grace. That is all.
With all that being said, I still really enjoyed this book. I'm happy to be able to add it to my ever-growing collection of Jen's books and I'm sure I'll be perusing it again in the future! :)
Before I go... leave me a comment if you've read the book and you remember that moment when Harrison was so desperate that he used the topic of conversation he was trying to avoid as a distraction from the distraction he tried to use to avoid the original conversation. (Hope that makes sense.) Personally, I found that situation hilarious! ;D
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book was, as I expected, a lot of fun and quite the adventure at times! There are some deeper, more difficult topics in this book, but as a whole I would consider it a comedy. Sometimes, the characters and situations are completely absurd, but that's what makes it so funny! (If you're a fan of classic films, I might compare it to something like "The Court Jester" or some other similar movie. If you don't understand that reference... then all I can say is that you need to go watch that movie. You'll thank me later. ;) )
I think I can honestly say that my favorite part of this story, and of the series in general so far, is Harrison. He is just..... he's such a lovable sweetheart! He's a wonderful brother and I love that about him! A hero that's a good brother always gets to me and Harrison's got that roll nailed. He obviously loves his sisters, even if he does find them exasperatingly baffling most of the time. He cares about them and for them. And all of that translates over into his relationship with Gertrude (who I also love) in a really sweet way. He's also a good and loyal friend. And while I'm pretty sure his clothing choices would probably drive me bonkers... I guess it does say something for him that he wasn't so extremely concerned with what people thought of his sense of fashion.
Gertrude is frustrating at times, mostly because of all the things she lets Mrs. Davenport get away with, but the more I got to know her, the more I loved her and I was somewhat better able to understand where she was coming from. Going into too much detail on that would be a spoiler so I won't say anything more, except that she has a very sad past and I know it would be difficult for anyone to overcome some of what she went through. She is compassionate and loyal and the type of person I think I would enjoy calling a friend.
I did wish for a little more in certain areas. I was really hoping for some more information on Harrison's colorblindness, yet at the same time, I wasn't surprised when it wasn't explored further. And Temperance's seeming about-face was kind of abrupt, but I thought that might be explained more in the next book. I hope it is. And I wish we knew more about Harrison's family! Seems like there could easily be a series written about his sisters... Would that be too much to hope for? And I felt like Mrs. Davenport's situation could have been expounded upon further. It just felt like there would be more behind her character and personality than what we were given in the story.
One thing upset me. At one point, the pastor says that he's delivered several sermons that centered around the truth that everyone is worthy of God's grace. That is not true. Grace is, by definition, unmerited. It is impossible to be worthy of grace. That is all.
With all that being said, I still really enjoyed this book. I'm happy to be able to add it to my ever-growing collection of Jen's books and I'm sure I'll be perusing it again in the future! :)
Before I go... leave me a comment if you've read the book and you remember that moment when Harrison was so desperate that he used the topic of conversation he was trying to avoid as a distraction from the distraction he tried to use to avoid the original conversation. (Hope that makes sense.) Personally, I found that situation hilarious! ;D
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 19, 2017
The second installment of Turano's Apart from the Crowd series is laugh-out-loud enjoyable. The foibles of the characters, balanced out with a light-hearted yet meaningful love story, is a true treat. Gertrude has a great head on her shoulders, and even though her sensible ways are foiled at each turn by her impetuous boss, she keeps a cool countenance (even when in some rather unimaginable situations). It's great that all of the threads are tied together in the end, even the small mysteries and side stories. It makes for a very satisfying read when the last page is turned.
Miss Gertrude Cadwalader is mostly happy with her job as the paid companion to the wealthy Mrs. Davenport. What isn't so great is that her employer tends to take other people's things without permission, forcing Gertrude to keep a sharp eye on Mrs. Davenport and try to unobtrusively return the pilfered items. Gertrude has caught the eye of the handsome, well-to-do Harrison Sinclair, but when Mrs. Davenport takes something belonging to Harrison's mother and Gertrude is caught returning it, things turn in an unfortunate way quite quickly. It is up to Harrison and Gertrude to shine the light on the truth, while trying to avoid making mistakes with their blossoming relationship. https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...
Miss Gertrude Cadwalader is mostly happy with her job as the paid companion to the wealthy Mrs. Davenport. What isn't so great is that her employer tends to take other people's things without permission, forcing Gertrude to keep a sharp eye on Mrs. Davenport and try to unobtrusively return the pilfered items. Gertrude has caught the eye of the handsome, well-to-do Harrison Sinclair, but when Mrs. Davenport takes something belonging to Harrison's mother and Gertrude is caught returning it, things turn in an unfortunate way quite quickly. It is up to Harrison and Gertrude to shine the light on the truth, while trying to avoid making mistakes with their blossoming relationship. https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...
January 25, 2018
Overall, I enjoyed this one, even if I'm not the target audience.
November 14, 2017
Full review and q&a on Faithfully Bookish
Turano delivers a subtle faith message in a universally appealing, inspiring, and delightfully entertaining tale of Gilded Age wallflowers and their dashing gentleman counterparts.
Gertrude, Harrison, Asher, Permillia and their band of misfit friends, family, and acquaintances keep the story hopping with romance, mystery, and all-out shenanigans! The Apart from the Crowd series is one of the few which my tween daughter (who prefers fantasy and adventure) and I both adore! We highly recommend this story!
I requested the opportunity to read this book through Celebrate Lit.
The opinions expressed are my own.
Turano delivers a subtle faith message in a universally appealing, inspiring, and delightfully entertaining tale of Gilded Age wallflowers and their dashing gentleman counterparts.
Gertrude, Harrison, Asher, Permillia and their band of misfit friends, family, and acquaintances keep the story hopping with romance, mystery, and all-out shenanigans! The Apart from the Crowd series is one of the few which my tween daughter (who prefers fantasy and adventure) and I both adore! We highly recommend this story!
I requested the opportunity to read this book through Celebrate Lit.
The opinions expressed are my own.
November 29, 2017
Unfortunately, this book didn't pan out for me. I've read a few of Jen Turano's novels in the past and liked them - but Out of the Ordinary really didn't have the same type of story structure, romance, or excitement. Which is a bit of a bummer...
First off, let's talk romance. Don't get me wrong - I love a good romance novel. They're adorable and sweet and often funny and have good messages. But the interaction between the two main characters in this was...I don't know, interspersed? I didn't feel like I got very much of them together, and a lot of what I did get was building upon a friendship begun in book one of this series (which I...yeah, I haven't read. So that's on me!). Which is okay...except that their relationship didn't seem very deep. At all. There were moments when they'd share their hearts, but it was rare. Neither one knew where the other person stood - again, that's okay, but it just...dragged on? Honestly, I barely cared about the characters being together....which isn't usually the case. Normally I'm rooting for the couple! Plus, it got a bit old with almost all of the secondary characters commenting on the "progress" of their relationship. IT WOULDA BEEN OKAY, but then it kept happening. Over and over again. And both MCs didn't even know how they felt, which, again, is fine, normally, but since I got so little of them together, it...just...didn't work. But then they suddenly, very suddenly, realize they love the other person...except the word "love" wasn't really used, at least in Harrison's case - it was "affection." On top of that, Harrison and Gertrude are supposed to already have a good friendship - and they sorta did? But at the same time it felt fresh and unsteady, without the firm foundation two people need to be a couple. In the novel, the relationship worked, and we're left to imagine them happily getting married and staying happy until the end of their days. K, so...nope. If their relationship was real, it would be at a new stage. Not an engagement stage. It almost felt flighty. LIKE GUYS, YOU GOTTA BE MORE GROUNDED THAN THIS. AND LASTLY, the side romances. One of them was fine, and seemed to be somewhat built upon a good friendship/relationship, but then there was a brand new romance between a side character and another side character and it's love-at-first-sight-I-will-marry-you kinda love. Sometimes that's all right, but since it was compounded with the MCs romance, which was a tad superficial, it made pretty much all the romance feel...shallow. Love isn't about looks - there was too much focus on the physical attributes of the characters, and it annoyed me. *ahem*
Secondly, the structure of the story. I didn't get the climax. The first half of the book happened in the span of a few hours, so...it kinda seemed like nothing happened. The whole book plays out in a matter of like five/six days (or thereabouts), AND JUST I felt like I was reading a snippet of what should've been an entire story? The MCs end up together (which in romance novels isn't a spoiler, haha...) but it was somewhat thrown in at the end and it almost felt like... HUH? WHAT HAPPENED TO BRING THEM TO THIS POINT? There wasn't much conflict to overcome...I mean, yeah, there was the personal struggle of Gertrude, her frustrations with her employer, and her employer's personal struggles, but they all got wrapped up. Honestly, what Gertrude was going through...would be really hard. It'd be painful, and it'd probably take a lot to heal the hurt she was harboring. But we didn't get that healing process?? Gertrude very suddenly realizes, from a bit of a speech from a pastor, that what she's been believing is wrong, and then it's like POOF next thing the reader knows, she's totally over it. IDEK.
Thirdly, the writing. (I really feel like I'm saying a lot of negatives, but...) This is probably just my personal taste, but the writing style isn't my favorite? I don't know why, but every single character seems high strung and stressed like one hundred percent of the time, and I don't get that?! *sigh*
Overall, Out of the Ordinary wasn't my cup of tea. There wasn't enough plot, I wasn't rooting for the characters, it was wrapped up too quickly, there was a lot of repetitious happenings pertaining to the romance/Gertrude's employers habits + the repercussions, and most of the story felt pretty shallow. I'm left wondering where the story arc was...and a bit hesitant to try more of Turano's books. :P
Huge thanks to Bethany House Publishers for giving me a free review copy! The feelings expressed above are completely my own.
First off, let's talk romance. Don't get me wrong - I love a good romance novel. They're adorable and sweet and often funny and have good messages. But the interaction between the two main characters in this was...I don't know, interspersed? I didn't feel like I got very much of them together, and a lot of what I did get was building upon a friendship begun in book one of this series (which I...yeah, I haven't read. So that's on me!). Which is okay...except that their relationship didn't seem very deep. At all. There were moments when they'd share their hearts, but it was rare. Neither one knew where the other person stood - again, that's okay, but it just...dragged on? Honestly, I barely cared about the characters being together....which isn't usually the case. Normally I'm rooting for the couple! Plus, it got a bit old with almost all of the secondary characters commenting on the "progress" of their relationship. IT WOULDA BEEN OKAY, but then it kept happening. Over and over again. And both MCs didn't even know how they felt, which, again, is fine, normally, but since I got so little of them together, it...just...didn't work. But then they suddenly, very suddenly, realize they love the other person...except the word "love" wasn't really used, at least in Harrison's case - it was "affection." On top of that, Harrison and Gertrude are supposed to already have a good friendship - and they sorta did? But at the same time it felt fresh and unsteady, without the firm foundation two people need to be a couple. In the novel, the relationship worked, and we're left to imagine them happily getting married and staying happy until the end of their days. K, so...nope. If their relationship was real, it would be at a new stage. Not an engagement stage. It almost felt flighty. LIKE GUYS, YOU GOTTA BE MORE GROUNDED THAN THIS. AND LASTLY, the side romances. One of them was fine, and seemed to be somewhat built upon a good friendship/relationship, but then there was a brand new romance between a side character and another side character and it's love-at-first-sight-I-will-marry-you kinda love. Sometimes that's all right, but since it was compounded with the MCs romance, which was a tad superficial, it made pretty much all the romance feel...shallow. Love isn't about looks - there was too much focus on the physical attributes of the characters, and it annoyed me. *ahem*
Secondly, the structure of the story. I didn't get the climax. The first half of the book happened in the span of a few hours, so...it kinda seemed like nothing happened. The whole book plays out in a matter of like five/six days (or thereabouts), AND JUST I felt like I was reading a snippet of what should've been an entire story? The MCs end up together (which in romance novels isn't a spoiler, haha...) but it was somewhat thrown in at the end and it almost felt like... HUH? WHAT HAPPENED TO BRING THEM TO THIS POINT? There wasn't much conflict to overcome...I mean, yeah, there was the personal struggle of Gertrude, her frustrations with her employer, and her employer's personal struggles, but they all got wrapped up. Honestly, what Gertrude was going through...would be really hard. It'd be painful, and it'd probably take a lot to heal the hurt she was harboring. But we didn't get that healing process?? Gertrude very suddenly realizes, from a bit of a speech from a pastor, that what she's been believing is wrong, and then it's like POOF next thing the reader knows, she's totally over it. IDEK.
Thirdly, the writing. (I really feel like I'm saying a lot of negatives, but...) This is probably just my personal taste, but the writing style isn't my favorite? I don't know why, but every single character seems high strung and stressed like one hundred percent of the time, and I don't get that?! *sigh*
Overall, Out of the Ordinary wasn't my cup of tea. There wasn't enough plot, I wasn't rooting for the characters, it was wrapped up too quickly, there was a lot of repetitious happenings pertaining to the romance/Gertrude's employers habits + the repercussions, and most of the story felt pretty shallow. I'm left wondering where the story arc was...and a bit hesitant to try more of Turano's books. :P
Huge thanks to Bethany House Publishers for giving me a free review copy! The feelings expressed above are completely my own.
April 25, 2020
I am SPEECHLESS in the BEST way!
This book could not have been more adventurous and positively endearing. Harrison has to be one of the most wonderful male leads I’ve ever read (excepting Gilbert Blythe, of course). He was absolutely a treasure of a character. Gertrude was a delight, as were, well, all the rest!! I may write a longer review later, but if I don’t, just know that I ADORED this book. I’m so glad I read it.
This book could not have been more adventurous and positively endearing. Harrison has to be one of the most wonderful male leads I’ve ever read (excepting Gilbert Blythe, of course). He was absolutely a treasure of a character. Gertrude was a delight, as were, well, all the rest!! I may write a longer review later, but if I don’t, just know that I ADORED this book. I’m so glad I read it.
January 2, 2018
This book is a lot of fun. This is my first book by this author and although it's not my favorite genre it was a great read. The characters are pretty far fetched but it is fiction so I use my imagination. Lots of silliness going on which led me to smiles and giggles. I compare this read to a little treat, a cupcake with fluffy buttercream frosting!
April 8, 2023
I did not expect this book that had me thorouughly laughing at times would send me to tears in the epilogue. Oh! Talk about a satisfying ending...
This is definitely my favorite Jen Turano book so far, and I've listened and/or read 7 of hers now.
The humor was so delightful and didn't feel forced, the relationship was fresh with the perfect amount of banter and swoon-worthiness, and I absolutely loved the added endearment of Harrison's color blindness and mismatched wardrobe as a result...but Gertrude saw his heart and adored him even if his clothes didn't match and others thought him strange.
I will say I find it a little overwhelming the way Turano can spend 40% of a full length novel on just ONE DAY (haha) but I do feel like this one was paced nicely once it finally moved to a new day/new scenery. The author definitely paints vivid pictures and events.
The theme and message of forgiveness was beautiful and probably what makes me love this one more than any of the others I've read. Harrison melted my heart when Gertrude opened up to him about her past. Just precious.🥰 And then the secondary thread of Mrs. Davenport. Well, she was just the perfect addition to this story. And her penchant for having "sticking fingers" cracked me up.
Enjoy the wild but beautiful ride as your journey through the pages with these delightful characters. Oh, I also liked the way the title played into the story.♡ Made me smile there at the end, I believe in the last chapter, with what Gertrude says to Harrison.♡♡
This is definitely my favorite Jen Turano book so far, and I've listened and/or read 7 of hers now.
The humor was so delightful and didn't feel forced, the relationship was fresh with the perfect amount of banter and swoon-worthiness, and I absolutely loved the added endearment of Harrison's color blindness and mismatched wardrobe as a result...but Gertrude saw his heart and adored him even if his clothes didn't match and others thought him strange.
I will say I find it a little overwhelming the way Turano can spend 40% of a full length novel on just ONE DAY (haha) but I do feel like this one was paced nicely once it finally moved to a new day/new scenery. The author definitely paints vivid pictures and events.
The theme and message of forgiveness was beautiful and probably what makes me love this one more than any of the others I've read. Harrison melted my heart when Gertrude opened up to him about her past. Just precious.🥰 And then the secondary thread of Mrs. Davenport. Well, she was just the perfect addition to this story. And her penchant for having "sticking fingers" cracked me up.
Enjoy the wild but beautiful ride as your journey through the pages with these delightful characters. Oh, I also liked the way the title played into the story.♡ Made me smile there at the end, I believe in the last chapter, with what Gertrude says to Harrison.♡♡
June 19, 2018
***4.5 stars***
I loved this book cast with eccentrics! There are so many moments that had me smiling/laughing/chuckling. This is fun book to read from start to finish!
While this is a fun book to read, there are many serious issues the characters are going through. Jen Turano deals with their problems with grace and a sense of humor. The most important part is that they are not alone. Friends an a loving Father in Heaven are always there to comfort and guide.
This is a second book in a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. I would suggest reading "Behind the Scenes" because you will find more of the same humor and time with the characters in this book.
This is a wonderful book to read. It contains Christian Themes, romance, skulduggery, mystery, romance novel dilemma's, etc. You will not be sorry to pick this one up!
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
P.S - A note of caution: Do not pick this book up to read when you are trying to settle down to sleep. I know from personal experience! I spent so much time laughing that I was no longer tired.😐🤣
I loved this book cast with eccentrics! There are so many moments that had me smiling/laughing/chuckling. This is fun book to read from start to finish!
While this is a fun book to read, there are many serious issues the characters are going through. Jen Turano deals with their problems with grace and a sense of humor. The most important part is that they are not alone. Friends an a loving Father in Heaven are always there to comfort and guide.
This is a second book in a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. I would suggest reading "Behind the Scenes" because you will find more of the same humor and time with the characters in this book.
This is a wonderful book to read. It contains Christian Themes, romance, skulduggery, mystery, romance novel dilemma's, etc. You will not be sorry to pick this one up!
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
P.S - A note of caution: Do not pick this book up to read when you are trying to settle down to sleep. I know from personal experience! I spent so much time laughing that I was no longer tired.😐🤣
November 16, 2017
Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano was an absolutely hilarious book. In fact, this may be her funniest book yet. Which is saying a lot.
Gertrude was such an original, engaging character and her relationship with Harrison was laugh out loud funny. I liked that they had a mutual respect for each other, despite the fact that they kept finding themselves and each other in embarrassing situations. I really liked Harrison, he was down to earth and humble, and he had no idea how to react to any of these situations. He was just trying to find a way to survive in a world filled with women. I also liked that he was color blind, my brother is color blind so I understood what he was going through. Poor guy just wanted to wear an orange coat…
These two made such an excellent couple, and I was rooting to see them get together, laughing and groaning along the way.
And then there’s Mrs. Davenport…
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the next in the series, or any other book that Turano might write.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Gertrude was such an original, engaging character and her relationship with Harrison was laugh out loud funny. I liked that they had a mutual respect for each other, despite the fact that they kept finding themselves and each other in embarrassing situations. I really liked Harrison, he was down to earth and humble, and he had no idea how to react to any of these situations. He was just trying to find a way to survive in a world filled with women. I also liked that he was color blind, my brother is color blind so I understood what he was going through. Poor guy just wanted to wear an orange coat…
These two made such an excellent couple, and I was rooting to see them get together, laughing and groaning along the way.
And then there’s Mrs. Davenport…
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the next in the series, or any other book that Turano might write.
I received a copy of this book for free. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
November 26, 2017
If you havven't read any of Jen Turano's book, what are you waiting for? I'm always excited when a new book of hers is released. The title to this new release "Out of the Ordinary" really describes her writing style. Its out of the ordinary and entertaining to the max. This new story carries her signature style of writing throughout the book. The names of her heroines are amusing, heroine Gertrude Cadwalader has her job as companion keeps her busy keeping up with her employer and tolerating the wild wardrobe the lil ole lady insists on making for Gertrude.
I love how in Jen's story the heroine is just a everyday girl
and the hero, a bachelor in the social elite seem to meet up and click. Reminds me that no one is better than anyone else and love finds its way in any circumstance and any social class. When you read this beware you will be looking for the others to read.
Blessings,
Karen
Rating: 5*
I received this as a gift and all opinions are my own.
I love how in Jen's story the heroine is just a everyday girl
and the hero, a bachelor in the social elite seem to meet up and click. Reminds me that no one is better than anyone else and love finds its way in any circumstance and any social class. When you read this beware you will be looking for the others to read.
Blessings,
Karen
Rating: 5*
I received this as a gift and all opinions are my own.
March 29, 2019
this was great. xD
November 13, 2017
Another winner in the line up of books by Jen Turano! As I've come to expect from her, this book was wonderfully hilarious and warmly romantic. The second book in the Apart From the Crowd series, Out of the Ordinary will keep you entertained all the way through!
One of the things I really liked about Gertrude and Harrison's relationship is that because it is built on a friendship, they have the basis for trusting each other when circumstances would normally have drove them apart. I loved how Harrison stands by Gertrude when things get a little sticky. And how Gertrude accepts him as he is - color blind quirky dress and all. :D Harrison's color blind style and Gertrude's employer forced style were both so wacky that I shuddered and laughed at the same time.
I enjoyed the inclusion of the characters from the first book. It was great to see their story continuing to unfold. I found Harrison's family to be a bit odd and I didn't really care for his mom at first. I wouldn't mind seeing his sisters stories more fleshed out though. They need their own happily ever after...lol.
With her usual style of laugh-out-loud situations (my favorites - the bustle scene and Harrison on a horse scene...LOL), a background mystery, and heartwarming romance, you'll be glad you chose this book!
*Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid nor required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
One of the things I really liked about Gertrude and Harrison's relationship is that because it is built on a friendship, they have the basis for trusting each other when circumstances would normally have drove them apart. I loved how Harrison stands by Gertrude when things get a little sticky. And how Gertrude accepts him as he is - color blind quirky dress and all. :D Harrison's color blind style and Gertrude's employer forced style were both so wacky that I shuddered and laughed at the same time.
I enjoyed the inclusion of the characters from the first book. It was great to see their story continuing to unfold. I found Harrison's family to be a bit odd and I didn't really care for his mom at first. I wouldn't mind seeing his sisters stories more fleshed out though. They need their own happily ever after...lol.
With her usual style of laugh-out-loud situations (my favorites - the bustle scene and Harrison on a horse scene...LOL), a background mystery, and heartwarming romance, you'll be glad you chose this book!
*Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid nor required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
November 22, 2017
I just fell in love with Jen Turano's books with her very first and right then and there determined to be a forever fan of her work. My opinion has only been further cemented with each book. She is a riot!
Miss Gertrude Cadwalader works as a paid companion to a very eccentric Mrs. Davenport, a society matron fond of lifting items of value from houses she visits. Miss Cadwalader then must sneak back and return them all with no one being the wiser. Mrs. Davenport also gives Gertrude some really unusual duties, including being her guinea pig for wearing peculiar outfits Mrs. D. has designed, including an incredibly uncomfortable and large bustle, which was made from an actual bird cage.
Shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, whom we met in the last book and fell in love with, is a most peculiar character himself. Fond of wearing the most outlandish clothes imaginable, Harrison is also a wonderful gentleman who has a particular concern for Gertrude. Their friendship seems to be turning into something more, which both desire secretly, when things take a turn that neither expected and the most outlandish escapades ensue that follow will delight Turner's readers immensely.
Jen Turano has the most incredible dry sense of humor I've ever seen. There are times I laugh out loud at the predicaments her characters find themselves in and the way their minds seem to work. Or should I say, Turano's mind works? Seriously, if you have not read any of her books, what in the world are you waiting for? She herself is totally extraordinary. Gertrude also discovers that God did not intend for her to be ordinary, but extraordinary herself. As He does all His children.
Don't miss this one, folks! It's a laugh riot!
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
Miss Gertrude Cadwalader works as a paid companion to a very eccentric Mrs. Davenport, a society matron fond of lifting items of value from houses she visits. Miss Cadwalader then must sneak back and return them all with no one being the wiser. Mrs. Davenport also gives Gertrude some really unusual duties, including being her guinea pig for wearing peculiar outfits Mrs. D. has designed, including an incredibly uncomfortable and large bustle, which was made from an actual bird cage.
Shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, whom we met in the last book and fell in love with, is a most peculiar character himself. Fond of wearing the most outlandish clothes imaginable, Harrison is also a wonderful gentleman who has a particular concern for Gertrude. Their friendship seems to be turning into something more, which both desire secretly, when things take a turn that neither expected and the most outlandish escapades ensue that follow will delight Turner's readers immensely.
Jen Turano has the most incredible dry sense of humor I've ever seen. There are times I laugh out loud at the predicaments her characters find themselves in and the way their minds seem to work. Or should I say, Turano's mind works? Seriously, if you have not read any of her books, what in the world are you waiting for? She herself is totally extraordinary. Gertrude also discovers that God did not intend for her to be ordinary, but extraordinary herself. As He does all His children.
Don't miss this one, folks! It's a laugh riot!
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
March 23, 2022
I usually enjoy Turano’s stories, but I found myself really struggling to stay engaged and drawn back to this one.
December 12, 2017
"Out of the Ordinary" is certainly just that--a not very ordinary book! This book is the second book in the "Apart from the Crowd" series, although it can be read as a standalone. This is my first book by Jen Turano and I really enjoyed this hilarious, anything-but-ordinary story.
This book certainly stands out among the Christian historical fiction I have read. Ms. Turano's sense of humor and style of writing is especially noteworthy. The way she writes makes me feel like I'm watching an "I Love Lucy" episode, where characters are always getting into hilarious scrapes. I really loved the “birdcage which is used as a bustle” incident (need I say more?). This is a light and fluffy read, with some serious parts. An episode driven novel isn't my favorite type of novel (I prefer dialogue driven), but I especially appreciated the more serious tone and the addition of more dialogue towards the second half of the book.
I really appreciate the characters and how unique they are. I think many readers will love that our heroine, Gertrude Cadwalader, is a wallflower (a girl who is not a part of the popular crowd). Gertrude doesn't mind doing peculiar things for her employer because she doesn't want to hurt her feelings. I also enjoyed the side characters, especially the quirky older women. These characters have struggles that they have to overcome throughout the course of the novel, such as accepting God's forgiveness.
Ms. Turano employs engaging and witty writing that is thrown in with a good dash of humor, which makes for an excellent read!
Content: I would give this book a PG rating. There is mention of a woman's bust; a man accidentally sees a woman in her undergarments; a man is in a house of ill repute and visits a woman there who's not his wife; a character struggles with depression, stealing and alcoholism; one character hits another; someone commits suicide; and there is talk of emotional and physical abuse.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction; Romance
I want to thank Jen Turano and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
This book certainly stands out among the Christian historical fiction I have read. Ms. Turano's sense of humor and style of writing is especially noteworthy. The way she writes makes me feel like I'm watching an "I Love Lucy" episode, where characters are always getting into hilarious scrapes. I really loved the “birdcage which is used as a bustle” incident (need I say more?). This is a light and fluffy read, with some serious parts. An episode driven novel isn't my favorite type of novel (I prefer dialogue driven), but I especially appreciated the more serious tone and the addition of more dialogue towards the second half of the book.
I really appreciate the characters and how unique they are. I think many readers will love that our heroine, Gertrude Cadwalader, is a wallflower (a girl who is not a part of the popular crowd). Gertrude doesn't mind doing peculiar things for her employer because she doesn't want to hurt her feelings. I also enjoyed the side characters, especially the quirky older women. These characters have struggles that they have to overcome throughout the course of the novel, such as accepting God's forgiveness.
Ms. Turano employs engaging and witty writing that is thrown in with a good dash of humor, which makes for an excellent read!
Content: I would give this book a PG rating. There is mention of a woman's bust; a man accidentally sees a woman in her undergarments; a man is in a house of ill repute and visits a woman there who's not his wife; a character struggles with depression, stealing and alcoholism; one character hits another; someone commits suicide; and there is talk of emotional and physical abuse.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction; Romance
I want to thank Jen Turano and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
May 22, 2018
So, embarrassing story. I marked this book as read and stated that a review was coming soon, and then set about scribbling all my review notes down so I wouldn't forget anything, and what did I forget? To actually post it. *eye-roll*
I remember well, however, that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I still think of scenes and lines from it since I finished it at the beginning of this year, and I'm expectantly awaiting the release of the next!
As always, Jen Turano presents us with a dazzling cast of characters living in a delightful setting in this heartwarming and hilarious story that will keep you smiling from start to finish (and after).
We met Gertrude and Harrison "Behind the Scenes", where they won our hearts, and they are no less adorable at center stage. Their shenanigans and capers are surely out of the ordinary! (See what I did there?) From one scrape to another, these two will keep you on your toes and lead you on a dance through the sparkling lights of their society...and not-so-glittering backstories.
Lies from the past and the truth of the present are revealed, inspiring hope for the future of our quirky and lovable duo.
I remember well, however, that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I still think of scenes and lines from it since I finished it at the beginning of this year, and I'm expectantly awaiting the release of the next!
As always, Jen Turano presents us with a dazzling cast of characters living in a delightful setting in this heartwarming and hilarious story that will keep you smiling from start to finish (and after).
We met Gertrude and Harrison "Behind the Scenes", where they won our hearts, and they are no less adorable at center stage. Their shenanigans and capers are surely out of the ordinary! (See what I did there?) From one scrape to another, these two will keep you on your toes and lead you on a dance through the sparkling lights of their society...and not-so-glittering backstories.
Lies from the past and the truth of the present are revealed, inspiring hope for the future of our quirky and lovable duo.
November 24, 2017
Adventures, misunderstandings, and crazy attire combine to create a delightful story that will keep you chuckling throughout!
Mishaps seem to follow Gertrude wherever she goes, but her sweet spirit makes her a character you wish you could meet in real life. And while Harrison's style might raise eyebrows, he has the heart of a hero indeed.
I loved the quirky characters and humor in Out of the Ordinary. I can't imagine experiencing many of the escapades the characters do, but if those things actually did happen, they'd be the stories you told your kids years later, and everyone would laugh.
Out of the Ordinary is the second book in the Apart From the Crowd series. It could probably be read alone, but the first (Behind the Scenes) is equally entertaining. If you are ready for a sweet, funny story, you'll want to join these two and their friends as they discover their place in society.
(This review was first posted on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
Mishaps seem to follow Gertrude wherever she goes, but her sweet spirit makes her a character you wish you could meet in real life. And while Harrison's style might raise eyebrows, he has the heart of a hero indeed.
I loved the quirky characters and humor in Out of the Ordinary. I can't imagine experiencing many of the escapades the characters do, but if those things actually did happen, they'd be the stories you told your kids years later, and everyone would laugh.
Out of the Ordinary is the second book in the Apart From the Crowd series. It could probably be read alone, but the first (Behind the Scenes) is equally entertaining. If you are ready for a sweet, funny story, you'll want to join these two and their friends as they discover their place in society.
(This review was first posted on my blog -- sarahruut.com. I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
November 27, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this fun story and can't wait to read the next installment. I love these quirky, Gilded Age romances.
March 18, 2018
I love Jen, and had SO many expectations for this book! I heard it was her funniest book to date, though I did laugh out loud a few times it wasn’t as hilarious as I had heard.
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed Gertie (😉) and Harrison’s story!!! I loved the Sinclair sisters and seeing more of Temperance all throughout the book. I cannot wait for book 3 to come out!!
I want to be best friends with Gertrude, I totally feel like we would hit it off! Or maybe I could just be her? So I could have Harrison. 😍 *major swoon* Loved this story so much!
I rated this a 4.5/5 stars. It was a wonderful story, but did I really expect anything less from Jen? The answer is no.
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed Gertie (😉) and Harrison’s story!!! I loved the Sinclair sisters and seeing more of Temperance all throughout the book. I cannot wait for book 3 to come out!!
I want to be best friends with Gertrude, I totally feel like we would hit it off! Or maybe I could just be her? So I could have Harrison. 😍 *major swoon* Loved this story so much!
I rated this a 4.5/5 stars. It was a wonderful story, but did I really expect anything less from Jen? The answer is no.
November 14, 2017
I adore Jen Turano's writing. She creates such realistic historical characters that jump off the page. Her heroines are never the typical women of the time period. They enjoy acting out of the societal norms, which I love. Her writing is crisp and clean with abundant descriptions to keep me in the setting. There isn't too much or too less description. Just enough to keep my imagination flowing as the characters move around in the setting. I was really excited to read Out of the Ordinary, and Turano didn't disappoint.
In Out of the Ordinary, I really enjoyed getting to know Gertrude Cadwalader a lot more. She is an unique individual with a personality to match. She is independent and isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes in. The hero, Harrison Sinclair, is a color-blind man who wears horrible non-matching clothes, even by today's standards. But even through the outward appearance he portrays, Gertrude sees past all that and falls in love with the sweet and protective man underneath. Their romance has a friendship base and makes for a great love story.
I have read many reviews where they mention that Turano is a hilarious writer. Usually, I don't find anything funny about her plots, but this time around, she really did make the plot funny. She put Gertrude in a number of different scenarios that made me shake my head and smile. I really enjoyed how toward the end Turano had Harrison do something, but it went horribly wrong. It was funny! I really enjoyed this novel and wanted to read it in a day, but life happened, and I did finish it in four days. I loved this story.
Overall, Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano is anything but ordinary. There are moments of pure laughter with a delightful cast of characters that had me flipping through the pages to see what other situation they can find themselves in. I truly LOVED this story, and I can't wait for the next installment in this series from Turano. Fans of Lorna Seilstad and Cara Lynn James should pick these books up.
I received a complimentary copy of Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
In Out of the Ordinary, I really enjoyed getting to know Gertrude Cadwalader a lot more. She is an unique individual with a personality to match. She is independent and isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes in. The hero, Harrison Sinclair, is a color-blind man who wears horrible non-matching clothes, even by today's standards. But even through the outward appearance he portrays, Gertrude sees past all that and falls in love with the sweet and protective man underneath. Their romance has a friendship base and makes for a great love story.
I have read many reviews where they mention that Turano is a hilarious writer. Usually, I don't find anything funny about her plots, but this time around, she really did make the plot funny. She put Gertrude in a number of different scenarios that made me shake my head and smile. I really enjoyed how toward the end Turano had Harrison do something, but it went horribly wrong. It was funny! I really enjoyed this novel and wanted to read it in a day, but life happened, and I did finish it in four days. I loved this story.
Overall, Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano is anything but ordinary. There are moments of pure laughter with a delightful cast of characters that had me flipping through the pages to see what other situation they can find themselves in. I truly LOVED this story, and I can't wait for the next installment in this series from Turano. Fans of Lorna Seilstad and Cara Lynn James should pick these books up.
I received a complimentary copy of Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
March 6, 2018
DNF twice! I tried two times to get into this book, but I just couldn't. I made it over 100 pages and didn't care at all about how it might end. Jen has written some great books, but this series just hasn't been as great in my opinion.
July 17, 2023
Well, wasn't this the perfect summer read😁🛥️ 🌊.
This book is simply adorable! All the characters are so well rounded, and their dynamics together is the sweetest. From the beginning to the end, I was hooked to the banter, plot, setting, and characters.
Literally loved everything about this book.
This book is simply adorable! All the characters are so well rounded, and their dynamics together is the sweetest. From the beginning to the end, I was hooked to the banter, plot, setting, and characters.
Literally loved everything about this book.
November 15, 2017
Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano is the second book in Apart from the Crowd series. Miss Gertrude Cadwalader is companion to Mrs. Davenport which is not an easy task. Mrs. Davenport is known for helping herself to other people’s belongings while they are at parties and events (which Gertrude returns). Gertrude and Mrs. Davenport are attending the engagement party of Permilia Griswold and Asher Rutherford on the yacht of Harrison Sinclair. The next day Mrs. Davenport confesses that she left her reticule on board the yacht with stolen contraband inside. Gertrude tries rescue it, but is caught by Harrison’s mother before she can depart. Gertrude is arrested and accused of stealing from the Manhattan Beach Hotel as well. Harrison works with Gertrude to clear her name (and Mrs. Davenport’s) and find the true culprit (and true love along the way).
Out of the Ordinary is easy to read and nicely written. Out of the Ordinary can be read alone. If you enjoy humorous historical novels, then I suggest picking up a copy of Behind the Scenes (first book in Apart from the Crowd series). There is one laugh out loud moment after another in Out of the Ordinary. I was happy to see growth in Mrs. Davenport and Gertrude by the end of the novel. At times I wanted to shake Gertrude and tell her to develop a backbone (especially after she wore the birdcage for a bustle). I felt that Ms. Turano captured the era with the fashions, dialogue and mannerisms. There is some predictability to the romance portion of the story (that seems inevitable in romance novels) and I felt the first night (night of engagement party) went on too long. That night alone took up 48% of the book. The mystery was interesting and I enjoyed figuring out the culprit. Out of the Ordinary is a quirky novel that will appeal to readers of historical romance novels and fans of Jen Turano.
Out of the Ordinary is easy to read and nicely written. Out of the Ordinary can be read alone. If you enjoy humorous historical novels, then I suggest picking up a copy of Behind the Scenes (first book in Apart from the Crowd series). There is one laugh out loud moment after another in Out of the Ordinary. I was happy to see growth in Mrs. Davenport and Gertrude by the end of the novel. At times I wanted to shake Gertrude and tell her to develop a backbone (especially after she wore the birdcage for a bustle). I felt that Ms. Turano captured the era with the fashions, dialogue and mannerisms. There is some predictability to the romance portion of the story (that seems inevitable in romance novels) and I felt the first night (night of engagement party) went on too long. That night alone took up 48% of the book. The mystery was interesting and I enjoyed figuring out the culprit. Out of the Ordinary is a quirky novel that will appeal to readers of historical romance novels and fans of Jen Turano.
December 9, 2017
I have long been a fan of Turano’s books and Out of the Ordinary is definitely one of the best yet! Gertrude and Harrison settled down deep in my heart. They are dear friends and have this quiet yet obvious attraction between them. Watching their ambrosial friendship develop into something more was pure delight.
Out of the Ordinary has an astonishing cast of supporting characters. Agent McParland and Edwina are two of my favorites. Surely they need a novella at the very least. :) It’s hard to read one of Turano’s stories without smiling often and letting out a few hardy chuckles. I was wholeheartedly captured by the witticism and nutty antics but you know there has to be more than just good humor to round out the plot and make it complete. It has to go deeper. And it does in several ways but the character arc that touched me the most was Mrs. Davenport, Gertrude’s employer. She is a might unconventional with a slightly shifty side but there is more to her story. I was utterly caught off guard by the turn it took near the end and thought it was one of the best moments when Mrs. Davenport is found in the church. I know that is cryptic but I don’t want to give anything away. I definitely recommend this book to fans of Inspirational historical fiction.
Bethany House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own. No compensation has been received.
Out of the Ordinary has an astonishing cast of supporting characters. Agent McParland and Edwina are two of my favorites. Surely they need a novella at the very least. :) It’s hard to read one of Turano’s stories without smiling often and letting out a few hardy chuckles. I was wholeheartedly captured by the witticism and nutty antics but you know there has to be more than just good humor to round out the plot and make it complete. It has to go deeper. And it does in several ways but the character arc that touched me the most was Mrs. Davenport, Gertrude’s employer. She is a might unconventional with a slightly shifty side but there is more to her story. I was utterly caught off guard by the turn it took near the end and thought it was one of the best moments when Mrs. Davenport is found in the church. I know that is cryptic but I don’t want to give anything away. I definitely recommend this book to fans of Inspirational historical fiction.
Bethany House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own. No compensation has been received.
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