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Customer Reviews for Bethany House A Change of Fortune
Bethany House A Change of Fortune
Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. Her fortune was the last thing she had left after losing her father, her fiance, and her faith. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she's determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.
Mr. Hamilton Beckett, much to his chagrin, is the catch of the season, and all the eyes of New York society--all the female ones, at least--are on him. He has no plans to marry again, especially since his hands are full keeping his business afloat while raising his two children alone.
Eliza's hapless attempts to regain her fortune unexpectedly put her right in Hamilton's path. The discovery of a common nemesis causes them to join forces and, before she knows it, Eliza has a whole retinue of people helping her. Eliza's determination not to trust anyone weakens when everyone's antics and bumbling efforts to assist her make her wonder if there might be more important things than her fortune and independence. When all of Hamilton's and Eliza's best-laid plans fall by the wayside, it will take a riot of complications for them to realize that God just might have had a better plan in mind all along.
Average Customer Rating:
(36 Reviews) 36
Rating Snapshot (36 reviews)
5 stars
19
4 stars
8
3 stars
6
2 stars
2
1 star
1
30 out of 3683%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for A Change of Fortune
Review 1 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
•°o•:*:•.Funny, Exciting, Romantic.•:*:• o°•
Date:April 14, 2013
Heather Guerrero, Homeschool Mom to 2Blessings
Location:CORONA, CA
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Author, Jen Turano knocked it out of the park with this one! I was laughing out loud all the way through it, and could not put it down!
This is Book #1 in The Ladies of Distinction Series. It has everything without being to over the top.
This is Book #1 in The Ladies of Distinction Series. It has everything without being to over the top.
Eliza Sumner is on an adventure to reclaim her fortune. She does not see it as an adventure, but a necessity. She has devised a scheme to travel from 1880s London and exist undetected in New York in order to track down the man who has be smeared her good name and destroyed her life. However, things quickly go awry when she is called upon to attend a formal dinner gathering she was not prepared for. She meets the Beckett brothers who have agendas of their own and havoc soon follows. Their lives become intertwined in mystery and intrigue along with another young lady who joins their unlikely group. The delightful upcoming journalist, Agatha is insistent upon thrusting herself into Eliza’s troubles and is a force to be reckoned with, and charming in her own rite.
The book takes place during the women’s suffrage movement. So women of the day are becoming more assertive. While some accept this, others like detective Theodore Wilder, are not so inclined and he foolishly voices his narrow minded view regularly. The reactions are comical for this beautiful Adonis of a man, who is well aware of his own appearance and affect on the opposite sex. He is a lesser character in the book, but very useful in adding depth to the story and showing views of the time.
Without telling you who they are, I will say, Piper and Ben added so much to the story, and their antics and precociousness are delightful and witty. The author really has a talent for comedy, which I greatly appreciated.
Yes, there is romance as well, and it develops at a nice enough pace, even though some pesky, interfering, but well-intentioned mothers are trying to force it along.
God is present in a real way as some characters struggle with their trust issues, and others just naturally pray and seek God as a regular way of life. That was very believable and in tune with real life, I thought.
I was left wondering about Grayson, and the details of his background story. I won’t give anything away about him, but hopefully we will see more in a follow-up book.
I would highly recommend Jen Turano’s debut novel, and look forward to her next one: A Most Peculiar Circumstance, in which Private investigator extraordinaire Mr. Theodore Wilder returns to us. Scheduled for release in June 2013 according to her website: JenTurano.com. Book #3 will be A Talent for Trouble as seen on her FB page.
5 out of 5 stars
Things that are included: *10 Discussion Questions at the end.
I received this copy free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
313 Pages
April 14, 2013
Things that are included: *10 Discussion Questions at the end.
I received this copy free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
313 Pages
April 14, 2013
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Review 2 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
A lighthearted, funny read
Date:April 6, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
This is a lighthearted, funny novel that I almost really liked. A lot of what happens is entirely not believable, and how the characters interact with one another, such as a nineteen year old with her parents, is much to contemporary. I nearly expected a cell phone to be whipped out of a pocket, or Facebook to be mentioned. The humour is it's saving grace.
That being said, it wasn't a bad way to spend an evening. I laughed out loud at the puce coloured dress bit and a few other places too. It could be called a 'rolicking adventure', but there again, although funny, the situations they find themselves in are sometimes beyond ridiculous. I think Jen Turano definitely has great potential as an author, and I am curious to see what she does next.
This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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Review 3 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Fantastic debut novel!
Date:February 18, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"A Change of Fortune" is Jen Turano's debut novel and I cannot wait to read many more by her! I started this book and had it finished within 24 hours, it was so good I did not want to stop reading! Lady Eliza is masquerading as a governess in New York City after traveling from London in search of a man and woman who have destroyed her father's reputation and stolen the family's money. However, Eliza has one mishap over another including ripping her dress at a dinner party, getting trailed by the older sister of her charges and landing them both into jail and then being dismissed from her job to being taken in by a man whom she is attracted to and shares a common enemy ywith. Eliza is not in search of a husband, but as she spends more time with Hamilton she cannot fight her feelings. However, as Hamilton gets to know Eliza better, he develops feelings for her, but also feels that he cannot compete with her former lifestyle. As Hamilton, Zayne, Agatha and Eliza all work together to seek justice and find answers, Hamilton's children are placed in danger and Eliza learns what really matters most.
I was immediately drawn into the story and into Eliza's life! I absolutely loved every word of this book! It had me laughing out loud as the various mishaps the characters had, and it had me wondering what would happen next during their many adventures. I loved the characters and the dialouge between the characters - that is probably what I loved most about this book! This is an incredible debut novel as it captivated me right from the start to the very end, the time period and the characters came alive and it was just so well-written and enjoyable to read! I am hoping her next book may be about the same characters as I would love to know what happens with Agatha and Zayne, Grayson's story and how Ming became his daughter, as well as spend more time with Gloria, Theodore, and the entire Watson family, and of course Hamilton, Eliza, Piper and Ben! I am highly recommending this book - you will not be disappointed!
I was immediately drawn into the story and into Eliza's life! I absolutely loved every word of this book! It had me laughing out loud as the various mishaps the characters had, and it had me wondering what would happen next during their many adventures. I loved the characters and the dialouge between the characters - that is probably what I loved most about this book! This is an incredible debut novel as it captivated me right from the start to the very end, the time period and the characters came alive and it was just so well-written and enjoyable to read! I am hoping her next book may be about the same characters as I would love to know what happens with Agatha and Zayne, Grayson's story and how Ming became his daughter, as well as spend more time with Gloria, Theodore, and the entire Watson family, and of course Hamilton, Eliza, Piper and Ben! I am highly recommending this book - you will not be disappointed!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a honest review.*
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Review 4 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Date:February 4, 2013
LETHER
Location:Chesapeake, VA
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This novel is very eventful from beginning to end, and also funny. Life can be chaotic as with Eliza’s life, nonetheless God’s plan will prevail. When we experience a stream of bad luck and seems as though nothing is going our way, rest and be assured God is working things out. God’s blessings can even surpass our expectations. As we see in this novel God aligns people, events and situations so that his will can be done. This an amazing story of learning to trust God, even when we don’t know the outcome. Trust God to have our best interest at heart even when times are dismal. It is during those times that we distance ourselves and we are not in accordance with God as Eliza did at the beginning of the novel. In the end, she realized he was at work. I admire the courage of both Eliza and Agatha. Eliza determined to find those responsible for stealing her fortune and ruining her family name and Agatha for being a good friend and sticking with her, regardless of what they encountered, even landing themselves in jail. Lawrence, well, he was honest about his feeling about Eliza and got exactly what he deserved. I am happy Eliza found true love and a gentleman. Thank you Bethany House for allowing me to share my opinion. Also for giving me the opportunity to select a great book and providing copy free of charge.
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Review 5 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Insanely engaging!
Date:January 24, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This book was so much fun to read! As unbelievable as the events and characters' actions could be, I was thoroughly hooked from page one. A Change of Fortune has just the right amount of intrigue mixed in with the most fabulous sense of humor. I never would have guessed this is a debut novel!
There are so many fantastic characters besides the hero and heroine. They're the stars of the show of course and rightly so. Eliza is extremely fearless and adventuresome for a woman in 1880 but the author pulled it off well. Hamilton is, well...a truly dashing fellow!
I laughed and laughed. My fingers couldn't turn the pages fast enough! The writing style reminds me of Deeanne Gist, one of the best writers in Christian Historical Fiction.
I had to contact the author on another website that hosted her for an interview and ask if there will be more stories coming with the other characters in this book. Jen assured me there are THREE more books to come! YES!!! I can't wait :)
Don't miss out on this lively and extremely well-written novel. Grab a copy today!
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Review 6 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Loved, loved, loved this book!!
Date:January 23, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I love, love, loved this book! A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano is an fun book that I could not put down. Lady Eliza Sumner and Mr. Hamilton Beckett instantly reached into my heart and did not let go even after I read the last page. The cover of this book totally captures the personality of Lady Eliza. I hope to see these character re-appear in a series, as well as future love stories for Mr. Zayne Beckett, Miss Agatha Watson, Grayson and Arabella. I have heard that Theodore Wilders story is due out in May 2013. I love these character so much that I hope Jen will also write love stories for the children of these families.
I don't like to read spoilers, so therefore I do not write them, but I highly recommend this wonderful book by Jen Turano. I look forward to more great books from the pen of Jen Turano in the future and I am a now a lifetime fan. I give this one a 5++ out of 5 stars.
I received this book from Bethany House for my honest review.
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Review 7 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
I Loved It!
Date:January 21, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I could neither put this book down nor stop smiling!
Lady Eliza Sumner has had her fortune stolen away from her by her father's most trusted advisor and her former governess, so Eliza has found herself in America and on a mission to reclaim what rightfully belongs to her family. Along the way she make many lifelong friends as well has the handsome Hamilton Beckett, who also happens to be the most eligible bachelor in town!
Eliza came to America to reclaim her fortune, but is it possible that she found so much more?
Eliza came to America to reclaim her fortune, but is it possible that she found so much more?
I absolutely loved this book, and will definitely be adding it to my favorites shelves! Ms. Turano has written a wonderfully entertaining tale full of adventure, mystery, laughter, and romance, with page turning action that doesn't slow. There were so many memorable moments, be they emotional, cute, witty, or just funny!
Eliza was a plucky character, who also had a softer side, and made for an excellent main character. I loved how Hamilton saw Eliza even when she was in a horrendous disguise and a puce dress. And Piper and Ben were just so cute! Agatha was a such a fun character with big ideas and heart that craved adventure.
There were so many twists in the plot, and so many wonderful larger-than-life-lovable characters that I can't wait to find out more about! I would love to read about Greyson and his adventures, because I'm sure he has many stories to tell, and a few more secrets to reveal! I finished this book hungry for the next one, counting the days until I can revisit all the of the wonderful characters and their world! It has been a long time since I have enjoyed a book so well. A book that I would most certainly highly recommend!
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Ms. Turano for letting me read your amazing book!
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Review 8 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
...Much to be desired...
Date:January 16, 2013
Kayla
Location:Grand Junction, CO
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
1
out of
5
Value:
1
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
This book was lacking in so many ways. The basic plot was simple and the character's personalities were unbelievable. There was an excessive amount of dialogue and scenarios that were too contemporary. While I read this book I felt as though I was being spoonfed every little detail the author wanted me to know. I did not feel as though I could think and ponder and dive into the pages to understand the characters. It was all handed to me to read with little brain power expensed. This book tried to do to much and did not succeed in the least. None of the characters or the dialogue or text fit the historical time period which the story was set. Aside from the chaotic plot and the mix of characters, I was thouroughly disappointed with the lack of Christian values in this book. The whole point of the book was for the main characters to get justice and revenge for a deed that was done to them. Eliza had turned from God because she doesn't see His presence in her jumbled life. However, the author spends little time developing this very crucial piece to the plot. In fact, there is only one scene that even addresses this issue, and the character has a complete change of heart in a matter of 2 very unbelievable pages. All in all I felt as though this story was a chaotic jumble from begining to end. There was potential, and I hope that should the author write another book, there would be less characters, less strange dialogues, less focus on revenge and more on God's saving grace. This book left much to be desired. I recieved this book from Bethany House Publishing in exchange for my honest review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
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Review 9 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Fun Loving Story
Date:January 14, 2013
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Historical novels can often have a hard time capturing and keeping a snarky, fun-loving, sarcastic heroine without making her seem too soon for her time. So kudos to “A Change of Fortune” for very much succeeding in creating a cast of memorable characters.
It’s a fun loving story with characters that don’t take themselves too seriously, but also have serious situations working against them to create constant conflict. From being arrested to a little girl who speaks her mind, to a scheming match making mother, plenty of light comedy and potential for romance to go around…the story doesn’t get dull.
Eliza has such a fun voice on the page. Determined to take her fortune back, I loved that as a reader, I didn’t have to watch her lie to our hero, but simply told him who she was and why she had crossed the ocean from England.
Dialogue is a blast. The simple writing of it keeps the book filled with giggle moments and also moments of pure seriousness. When a character starts waving a gun around…yeah it might be time to cut the humor. It’s a really good blend of comedy/romance/suspense/historical. I think it will easily appeal to lovers of historical fiction, but also those who enjoy the contemporary comedies.
Enjoyable. Cute. Humorous. Good writing. It’s a combination for a memorable debut and leads the way for what I hope is a great series.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
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Review 10 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Fun, clean, and engaging romance!
Date:January 11, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
It's 1880, and Lady Eliza Sumner is following her red hair right into trouble as she single-handedly tries to catch the man who embezzled her father's fortune, leaving her alone and destitute. Having followed him to New York City from England, she is serving as a governess (Miss Sumner) while she tries to locate him. Just as Eliza finds him, she also stumbles (literally) into Mr. Hamilton Becket, a wealthy widower and one of New York's most eligible bachelors. They team up to try to restore her fortune, while Mr. Becket tries to keep her out of trouble. Sparks fly between them, in more than one way, as they disagree on how to handle the situation. But, Hamilton's mother and his two motherless children have plans of their own.
A Change of Fortune was a fun book to read. It has humor, adventure, mystery, and of course, romance. I enjoyed the personalities of the characters, their developing relationships, the many humorous predicaments they faced, and the witty dialogue. I'll be honest and admit that it's light reading, a fluff book ... but a very enjoyable fluff book!
As a Christian romance, it kept the physical side of the romance to a minimum. I appreciate that, as I've picked up a few Christian fiction books since I started reviewing books that shocked me by their content. The content of A Change of Fortune is perfectly clean; I'd even let my 13 year old daughter read the book. The characters in this story are all on different spiritual paths, and their relationships with God are occasionally discussed, but this isn't a very "preachy" book.
There were several plot twists that I hadn't expected, as well as some relationship developments that were somewhat predictable. But even if I saw the secondary romance building, I still enjoyed the story and the progress of the overlapping romances. Of course, Eliza and Hamilton get their happy ending along with their restored faith, and the other budding relationships leave the door wide open for a sequel, or two. I'm looking forward to more historical romance (with a comedic twist) from Jen Turano.
** This book was provided free, by Bethany House publishers, for review purposes. No other compensation was received in exchange for this honest review. **
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Review 11 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
A Stolen Fortune, Adventure and Romance
Date:January 11, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jen Turano in her new book, “A Change Of Fortune” published by Bethany House Publishers takes us into the life of Eliza Sumner.
From the back cover: Lady Eliza Sumner is on a mission. After losing her family, her fiance, and her faith, the disappearance of her fortune is the last straw. Now, masquerading as Miss Eliza Sumner, governess-at-large, she’s determined to find the man who ran off with her fortune, reclaim the money, and head straight back to London.
Much to Mr. Hamilton Beckett’s chagrin, all the eyes of New York society–all the female ones, at least–are on him. Unfortunately for all the matchmaking mothers and eligible daughters, he has no plans to marry again, especially with his hands full keeping his business afloat and raising his two children alone.
When Eliza’s hapless attempts to regain her fortune put her right in Hamilton’s path, sparks instantly begin to fly. The discovery of a common nemesis causes them to join forces, but with all their plans falling by the wayside and their enemies getting the better of them, it will take a riot of complications for Hamilton and Eliza to realize that God just might have had a better plan in mind all along.
Let me start out by saying that I think “A Change Of Fortune” should be made into a major motion picture. Jen Turano has given us one really fun book filled with some great characters and a rollicking plot. Lady Eliza Sumner is a Lady, that means she has never worked and on top of that she is a bit clumsy. So what happens? Her fortune is stolen so she has to come to New York to steal it back hiding in the role of a governess. Eliza is not a very good thief so, naturally, she winds up in jail and has to be bailed out by new friend, Hamilton Beckett. Now they must join forces to try to reclaim Eliza’s fortune. Along the way romance develops and the book picks up from there. Eliza and Hamilton are extraordinary and well written. This is a just plain fun, exciting story that entertains while giving us an adventure. Ms.Turano has batted in a winner and I enjoyed it a lot. I am so looking forward to more from this very talented author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 12 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
An Unfortunate Change
Date:January 9, 2013
Cammy M
Age:Under 18
Gender:female
“A Change of Fortune” by Jen Turano is a whirlwind of a book taking you from one place to another so fast that you don’t know where to look. Lady Miss Eliza Sumner is at her wits end. Having lost everything in a scandal after her father’s death she travels to America in search of what is rightfully hers. In the process of tracking down her nemesis she finds herself in the company of friends including one Hamilton Beckett a handsome widower with a common adversary. Together with her new found friends Lady Eliza expedites one bumbling escapade after another in attempt to regain her fortune. But will they succeed?
How can I convey what I feel about this book without seeming unkind? I enjoy light reads and I can get over the fact that it is not true to the time period but I cannot get over the quality of the writing. It doesn’t add to things that I am learning about imagery in school and this book seems to hit all the pitfalls we are warned about in class. My review may be harsh but I have to be honest with myself as well as with all who read this review.
The story lacked tact. When I read reviews mentioning the unrealistic use of mumbling and snorting I believed it wouldn’t bother me; it never had before. It probably wouldn’t have either if the use of those words, amongst others, were not so excessive. The use of any specific word or phrase in excess whether it coheres with the time period of the writing or not is a pet peeve of mine and in my opinion only assists in the degradation of the text. The eye rolling (also noted by other reviewers) I place in a different spectrum. I have been brought up in the mindset that eye-rolling is like swearing, extremely disrespectful whether one means ill by it or not. Needless to say the multiple rolling of eyes took away greatly from the characters for me.
As I said before, I love light reads but I still desire to take away something positive from the books I read. What I take away from this book is that: it is okay to do the wrong thing if you have a good reason, to roll your eyes at people and to treat people disrespectfully, and that it is okay for one to take eye for an eye tooth for a tooth. Christian morals were mentioned but never acted out. In fact the whole book held an atmosphere of “do as I say not as I do”.
Ms. Turano please, I implore you, read some classic books along with an assortment of books from popular authors today. Read how their conversations flow, how the characters emotions are unveiled and how they combine the serious and intense with the fun, romantic and witty. These are the things I found stilted in this tale. As much as I am happy for your success I really hope that this is not an example of where the future of writing is headed. It has never been more evident to me that the art of language and the written word is being lost in the rush to publish a book. I don’t want to discourage you, I truly admire your stamina and courage, just don’t quit seeking to improve. As the saying from Tim Duncan goes, “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.”
This book was given to me by Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. All thoughts in the review are my own.
How can I convey what I feel about this book without seeming unkind? I enjoy light reads and I can get over the fact that it is not true to the time period but I cannot get over the quality of the writing. It doesn’t add to things that I am learning about imagery in school and this book seems to hit all the pitfalls we are warned about in class. My review may be harsh but I have to be honest with myself as well as with all who read this review.
The story lacked tact. When I read reviews mentioning the unrealistic use of mumbling and snorting I believed it wouldn’t bother me; it never had before. It probably wouldn’t have either if the use of those words, amongst others, were not so excessive. The use of any specific word or phrase in excess whether it coheres with the time period of the writing or not is a pet peeve of mine and in my opinion only assists in the degradation of the text. The eye rolling (also noted by other reviewers) I place in a different spectrum. I have been brought up in the mindset that eye-rolling is like swearing, extremely disrespectful whether one means ill by it or not. Needless to say the multiple rolling of eyes took away greatly from the characters for me.
As I said before, I love light reads but I still desire to take away something positive from the books I read. What I take away from this book is that: it is okay to do the wrong thing if you have a good reason, to roll your eyes at people and to treat people disrespectfully, and that it is okay for one to take eye for an eye tooth for a tooth. Christian morals were mentioned but never acted out. In fact the whole book held an atmosphere of “do as I say not as I do”.
Ms. Turano please, I implore you, read some classic books along with an assortment of books from popular authors today. Read how their conversations flow, how the characters emotions are unveiled and how they combine the serious and intense with the fun, romantic and witty. These are the things I found stilted in this tale. As much as I am happy for your success I really hope that this is not an example of where the future of writing is headed. It has never been more evident to me that the art of language and the written word is being lost in the rush to publish a book. I don’t want to discourage you, I truly admire your stamina and courage, just don’t quit seeking to improve. As the saying from Tim Duncan goes, “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.”
This book was given to me by Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. All thoughts in the review are my own.
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Review 13 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
An outstanding debut for Jen Turano
Date:January 6, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The cover drew me to this book even before I read the description; and the story was everything that was promised and more.
Humor weaves its way throughout the book, from the main cast of characters straight to the secondary cast of characters. Lady Eliza Sumner is in hiding, and tries to disguise her appearance as she searches for the man who stole her inheritance. When I met her she was working as a governess in New York City, and was called upon to attend a dinner party that her employer was holding. It is during this time that I encountered Jen Turano's sense of humor. Lady Eliza appears at the dinner party dressed in a hideous puce colored dress, which poorly fits her, and eye glasses that she doesn't need. There are a few mishaps at the table, and when she gets up to leave she ends up face down on the floor.
Hamilton Beckett was also a guest at the dinner party and was very glad to sit beside this unusual young woman who seemed not able to do anything right. He was also very glad that she didn't care about the fact that he was a railroad baron's son. Throw in in a couple of adorable kids, and young woman, named Agatha Watson, who becomes a good friend to Eliza, and who was determined to be a part of Eliza's every adventure; a jail, a murder, a kidnapping, not to mention interfering mothers, and you have all the right ingredients for a fantastic story.
This was an outstanding debut for Jen Turano, and I look forward to her next novel: A Most Peculiar Circumstance, which is to make its appearance sometime in late spring or early summer 2013.
**A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano was provided for me free by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 14 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Potential
Date:January 5, 2013
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
I have been reading a lot of new authors recently and while some have bombed others have not. Turano's first novel shows that she has a future as a writer. The setting was fun, it was a story line that I have not encountered yet. The story itself didn't really drag at any point.
The issue I seemed to have with the book was the characters. I believe the author was trying to put way to many personalities into one book. It was hard at times keeping up with everyone's quirks and issues.
I am looking forward to reading the rest of Turano's books in this series to see how she develops as an author.
I received this book from Bethany House publishing in exchange for my honest opinion.
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Review 15 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Delightful historical with intrigue
Date:January 3, 2013
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The cover sold me on this book, but then I read a novella which had me laughing out loud as it introduced the characters in this novel. The novella had me racing to read the book...so much so that I almost went out and bought a second copy of the book because I couldn't wait to get home to start reading.
The book did not disappoint. There is a strong thread of humor that runs through the book, from the main characters to the large supporting cast. Lady Eliza Sumner is hiding who she is in an attempt to find the man who stole her fortune. She ends up serving as a governess in NYC and is thrust into a comedy of errors when she is asked to fill in at an elegant dinner party. Hamilton Beckett is fortunate enough to sit beside this young woman who can't do anything right, and he is intrigued by the very fact she could care less about who he is. Add in a couple kids, a young woman who is determined to be part of every adventure, a jail, interfering mothers, and a white horse and you have a recipe for an absolutely delightful read.
I don't give five stars easily. This book is a debut novel, and I truly cannot wait for the next book. Jen Turano has earned a place at the top of my TBR book with future novels.
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Review 16 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Conflict
Date:January 2, 2013
nabagail
Location:Seattle
Gender:female
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
2
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
2
out of
5
When Lord Sefton dies, his remaining child, Lady Eliza, is left with nothing. Her father's man of affairs has embezzled her vast fortune and left for America. Eliza sets out to find her fortune when English Authorities refuse to believe that it has been stolen. She is shocked to find that the assets are not the only things lost. The man of affairs has spread negative rumors regarding her father's handling of the family's vast wealth. Her fiancé deserts her and society wants nothing to do with a person of poor reputation. In America, Eliza seeks employment as a governess. This is short lived when, after a nighttime sleuthing adventure, she and her eldest charge end up in jail for prostitution. Hamilton Beckett, her love interest, rescues Eliza and Agatha from jail. Hamilton lost his wife in an accident almost two years before and has been desolate, thinking that it was his fault. Eliza and Beckett find that their fortunes are literally tied together in this tale of romance and intrigue.
Ms. Turano has a skill and an imagination that she should continue to develop. I do not want to discourage her writing. However, somethings definitely distracted from my enjoyment of the story. There was too much relational conflict between Hamilton and Eliza. I wondered, if they had as much difficulty with communication before they were married, how they would be afterwards. They were continually misreading each other and so much so that the actual story bogged down. I think of the use of "snort" and "hiss" in terms of pigs and snakes and maybe people of low culture but not a well-bred English lady or gentleman. The intrigue side of things could've been much better developed.
I have been seriously conflicted regarding this review because, as I said, I have no desire to discourage Jen Turano but I also wanted to be honest. Should she read this review, my hope is that she will receive the criticism as constructive and be able to apply it to her next novel. This book was received from Bethany House publishers as part of their review program.
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Review 17 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Wonderfully, delightful read!
Date:December 28, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This story transports the reader to New York in 1880. Turano provides a story from another time without any distracting history lessons. The finer details of the past are mingled in with a light touch. Perhaps, to a history buff, it might not be sufficient - but for a fun, Sunday afternoon read, it was quite fine.
The main character, Eliza is fun and quirky right from the moment the story begins. I thoroughly enjoyed the circumstances that propel Eliza to tackle the crazy things she does throughout the plot. She is independent, spirited and determined to regain her father's fortune and reputation. When you bring the trouble-prone Agatha into the mix, you have very many laugh out loud moments. This is the primary gift of the story - its humour. Jen Turano does a great job. Some parts may feel a little 'slap-stick', but it fits the story. The humour and action reminded me a lot of the movie A Knight's Tale - mixing a little modern in with the historical.
Overall the entire story is fun to read. A great vacation style novel. The downside for me was wishing for more depth to the characters. Especially the two male counterparts, Hamilton and Zayne. They have good qualities and some slight-flaws as every character should. I had only hoped for a deeper analysis of their motivations and their wounds. A personal preference for sure.
If you are looking for an enjoyable read that is light and thoroughly entertaining you will love this story.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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Review 18 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
A Light, Fun Read
Date:December 27, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Lady Eliza Sumner has taken a job as a governess with the Watson family in New York. Not because she actually is a governess, but because she is trying to track down the man who stole her fortune and besmirched her family's name in England. So, as plain Miss Eliza Sumners, she tries to conceal her identity and search for the thief inconspicuously. Once her employer forces her to attend a formal dinner, however, and she finds herself seated next to a Mr. Hamilton Beckett, her carefully laid plans begin to go awry. Instead of following the trail by herself, she is instead surrounded by new friends eager to assist her. The money she searches for may even become less important as her new life becomes filled with people she cares about.
This book was just plain fun. While the plot may not have been terribly original or complicated, the characters in the story were completely endearing. It wasn't even just Eliza who made the story, but every single character who was involved in her life, from Agatha who became a close friend, to Hamilton and his brother Zayne, to Hamilton's children Piper and Ben, and even the mothers, Mrs. Beckett and Mrs. Watson gave such life and humor to the book that I couldn't put it down. I loved the friendship between Eliza and Agatha, and how together they couldn't resist the adventure of taking an active part in the investigation. I also loved how the people around them couldn't help but be taken in by their humor and zest for life, while still working to keep them safe and work with them to recover Eliza's fortune.
I give this book 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4. There wasn't a lot of depth to Eliza's search for God, yet she still came to realize that He was guiding her steps, and had even worked the loss of her fortune to her good. I recommend this book if you're looking for a light, fun read.
I am excited to see that this is the first book in a set of four! I can't wait to see what other characters and stories come next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 19 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
Clean and hilarious!
Date:December 21, 2012
An Old Fashioned Girl
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Jen Turano's novel "A Change of Fortune" is incredibly funny - it is not often that I laugh out loud while reading, but there were many times that I could not help it. It is undeniably a romantic comedy, and not one that relies on sexual humor or hideously embarrassing situations, though Lady Eliza is more than capable of getting herself into a scrape. Thankfully Turano imparts the humor without the acute embarrassment.
It is a great clean book - not even a kiss until the wedding! It's so rare to see relationships develop in books without all that physical tension - "He kissed me - does this me he loves me?" "Why would she kiss like that if she had no intention of marrying me?" In this novel, there is still definite tension between Hamilton and Eliza, but the romance is not super physically intense or overpoweringly mushy. It is still lively and great for this level of comedy.
As a Christian romantic comedy, "A Change of Fortune" does tie in a relationship with God - more in the end than the beginning, but neither Eliza nor Hamilton is exactly relying on Jesus at the start. I get the impression they are simply angry at first and not so much disbelieving, but they learn trust in the end - both in God and each other. Turano does not delve as deep as other authors, but her novel still makes a point that God can and will take very difficult situations and turn them to the better.
I received a free copy from Bethany House for the purpose of this review; I was not required to write a positive review.
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Review 20 for A Change of Fortune
Overall Rating:
a story about revenge or forgiveness
Date:December 19, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I don't usually start a book review by mentioning the cover, but this cover is so delightful, I need to begin at the front! This is one book you can judge by its cover...Lady Eliza Sumner is just as charming as the photo!
The story is a rather somber one, of losing one's inheritance through the unscruplous actions of another, but I found the actions of the characters to be quite on the humorous side, and am glad that I was not subjected to many of the instances found in the story. Being of the aristocracy can not be very easy, what with all the expectations that seem to come with it. Exacting revenge is not something that usually works out as planned, but recovering the lost currency and jewelry is a welcome outcome.
How easy it seems to be for some people to take without considering the cost to the one it is being taken from unwillingly no matter if it is time, money or status. To be forgiving when it is taken from you is easier said than done, but in the end to not forgive only hurts yourself. I loved the spin the author put on her plot, and will be looking for future novels by her, and gladly recommend this to young adults as well as adults for enjoyable reading
The story is a rather somber one, of losing one's inheritance through the unscruplous actions of another, but I found the actions of the characters to be quite on the humorous side, and am glad that I was not subjected to many of the instances found in the story. Being of the aristocracy can not be very easy, what with all the expectations that seem to come with it. Exacting revenge is not something that usually works out as planned, but recovering the lost currency and jewelry is a welcome outcome.
How easy it seems to be for some people to take without considering the cost to the one it is being taken from unwillingly no matter if it is time, money or status. To be forgiving when it is taken from you is easier said than done, but in the end to not forgive only hurts yourself. I loved the spin the author put on her plot, and will be looking for future novels by her, and gladly recommend this to young adults as well as adults for enjoyable reading
I received this novel free from Bethany House Pulishers for the purpose of reading and posting a review. A postive critique was not required, only an honest one. The opinions stated are my own.
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