Bible Reference(2,141)
Bible Studies(1,720)
Biblical Studies(1,659)
Biography(2,806)
Business & Careers(241)
Catholic(279)
Children(2,174)
Christian Living(10,656)
Church & Pastoral(2,172)
Church History(618)
Closeouts(4,125)
Commentaries(2,199)
Devotionals(5,841)
Family(5,611)
Fiction(25,605)
Action/Adventure(74)
African American(74)
Allegory(120)
Amish(3,222)
Biblical(533)
Classic Fiction(55)
Contemporary(5,963)
Drama(577)
Fantasy/Science Fiction(1,068)
Historical(1,721)
Poetry(2)
Romance(7,560)
Short Stories(86)
Suspense & Intrigue(6,022)
Teens(587)
Westerns(398)
Gift Books(825)
Personal Growth(9,076)
Philosophy(52)
Prophecy & End Times(1,059)
Theology(2,738)
Shop Now At Christianbook.com
Shop Romance or
Choose a Category
- Academic
- Accompaniment Tracks
- Advent
- Adventures in Odyssey ™
- Audiobooks
- Bible Accessories
- Bible Covers
- Bible Studies & Curriculum
- Bibles
- Blooming Bargains
- Books
- Catholic
- Children
- Christian Living
- Christmas
- Church & Pastoral
- Church Supplies
- Closeouts
- Clothing & Accessories
- Crafts & Recreation
- DVDs
- Download
- Easter
- Education
- Fall
- Family
- Father's Day
- Fiction
- Focus Magazines
- Focus Resource
- Focus Reviewed
- Focus on the Family
- Gift & Home
- Graduation
- Homeschool
- MP3 Music Downloads
- Mother's Day
- Music
- New Release
- Patriotic
- Pre-Order
- Radio Theatre
- Slightly Imperfect
- Software
- Spanish
- Spring
- Subscriptions
- Sunday School
- Teens
- Thanksgiving
- VBS
- Videos
- Winter
- eBooks
Most Popular Products
Top-Rated Products
Customer Reviews for Bethany House A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Bethany House A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Miss Arabella Beckett has one driving passion: to help the downtrodden women of America. Naturally, she supports the women's suffrage movement and eagerly attends rallies and lectures across the country. On her travels, she makes a simple offer of assistance to a young woman in need that goes sadly awry and lands both ladies in more trouble than they can manage. An independent sort, Arabella is loath to admit she needs help and certainly doesn't need help from an arrogant, narrow-minded knight in shining armor.
Average Customer Rating:
(19 Reviews) 19
Rating Snapshot (19 reviews)
5 stars
11
4 stars
8
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
19 out of 19100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Review 1 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A great read
Date:June 10, 2013
shanfromcan
Location:Canada
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This is the first book I have read by Jen Turano and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Arabella was quite the feisty character and Theodore certainly was not prepared for what he would encounter. A fast read, because you have to keep turning the page to see what happens next. Lots of neat twists and turns. So put on your seatbelt and get ready for a great ride!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 2 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
5.0 out of 5 stars continuing Jen Turano's book 2
Date:June 9, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Saturday, June 8, 2013
A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano, ©2013 Ladies of Distinction, book 2
A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano, ©2013 Ladies of Distinction, book 2
Knowing far too well that the rights of women were cast aside on the whims of gentlemen on a daily basis, Arabella felt her jaw clench. The reality was that, yes, she might be held behind bars for a very long time.
She should have been more diligent in her attempts at getting the laws changed.
It certainly lent a different perspective to the inequalities facing women when she was the one behind bars, yet now was hardly the time to think about that.
--A Most Peculiar Circumstance, 10
She should have been more diligent in her attempts at getting the laws changed.
It certainly lent a different perspective to the inequalities facing women when she was the one behind bars, yet now was hardly the time to think about that.
--A Most Peculiar Circumstance, 10
I have been looking forward to continuing Jen Turano's book 2 in the series! First to be recognized is that Mr. Beckett and Mr. Beckett [A Change of Fortune (2012)] have a sister ~ Miss Arabella Beckett ~ and... she and Eliza are going to be best of friends, if she ever gets home to New York, that is. She certainly has a lot of detours on the way. She finishes one adventure and gets into another one. All unintentional, of course. All she did was offer to check on the daughter of a woman she met at the train station ~ just a short stop off, not realizing it would take the way-of-escape being needed by her! She comes upon tied up Miss James and in the process of freeing her, she is happened upon by a dishonorable fellow whom she has to wing in the process, and then run for it when the sheriff comes. She leads them through a pig wallow along with them getting a little smelly, too, on the way. So... you guessed it. She ends up entombed ~ well that may be a slight exaggeration. But is is a moldy ceilinged cellar jail, indeed! As I said, she and Eliza are going to become fast friends. She was just trying to help.
Who comes to the rescue, but a very celebrated government private eye, Mr. Theodore Wilder. After all, the family owns a railroad, and that speaks for something. He and Miss Beckett do not see eye-to-eye, exactly, until he realizes the true fix she is in, and he rescues her against Sheriff Dawson and his deputies.
Jen Turano is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in Clothing and Textiles. When she's not writing, Jen can be found watching her teenage son participate in various activities, taking long walks with her husband and dog, socializing with friends, or delving into a good book. She lives in suburban Denver, Colorado. Learn more at jenturano.com.
There are four books in this series, not counting the companion novella of A Change of Fortune (2012), which by the way, is still being freely offered [Gentleman of Her Dreams ~*A Ladies of Distinction novella] for e-Reader in the Kindle store, NOOK Book, and from Kobo and ChristianBook by the publisher, Bethany House!
Ladies of Distinction, book 2
Miss Arabella Beckett, defender of the down-trodden women of America, is returning from her travels in support of the women's suffrage movement when she makes a simple offer of assistance to a young woman in need. But things go sadly awry, and both ladies soon find themselves in dire need of rescue. Arabella, always loath to admit she needs help, is particularly reluctant to receive assistance from the arrogant, narrow-minded knight in shining armor who shows up just in time.
Private investigator extraordinaire Mr. Theodore Wilder is on an assignment that began as a favor to his good friend Zayne Beckett, but swiftly evolved into a merry chase across the country. He is already in a less than pleasant mood, and when Hamilton's sister turns out to have radical ideas and a fiercely independent streak, he's at his wit's end.
Much to their chagrin, Theodore and Arabella's paths continue to cross when they return home to New York, but the most unusual feelings beginning to grow between them certainly can't be anything serious. When the trouble Arabella accidentally stirred up in her travels follows her home and threatens her very life, the unlikely couple must face the possibility that they might have landed in the most peculiar circumstance of all: love.
Miss Arabella Beckett, defender of the down-trodden women of America, is returning from her travels in support of the women's suffrage movement when she makes a simple offer of assistance to a young woman in need. But things go sadly awry, and both ladies soon find themselves in dire need of rescue. Arabella, always loath to admit she needs help, is particularly reluctant to receive assistance from the arrogant, narrow-minded knight in shining armor who shows up just in time.
Private investigator extraordinaire Mr. Theodore Wilder is on an assignment that began as a favor to his good friend Zayne Beckett, but swiftly evolved into a merry chase across the country. He is already in a less than pleasant mood, and when Hamilton's sister turns out to have radical ideas and a fiercely independent streak, he's at his wit's end.
Much to their chagrin, Theodore and Arabella's paths continue to cross when they return home to New York, but the most unusual feelings beginning to grow between them certainly can't be anything serious. When the trouble Arabella accidentally stirred up in her travels follows her home and threatens her very life, the unlikely couple must face the possibility that they might have landed in the most peculiar circumstance of all: love.
Theodore Wilder, PI, doing a favor for his good friend, Zayne Beckett, is releasing sister Arabella into their hands, or so he thinks. But in love and war, perhaps he is not contemplating the outcome, when it is the beginning. Upon seeking his help, Arabella's mother has forgotten to mention to him, in her duress, the true free-spirited nature of her daughter. She is missing and needed at home to be part of a family event. Oops, too late, with all of her adventures.
NEWS FLASH * NEWS FLASH * NEWS FLASH
"Private Investigator Theodore Wilder is on a mission to find Arabella Beckett. But this feisty suffragette may be more trouble than he bargained for!"―Provided by publisher.
Well, at least someone is letting it be known!
NEWS FLASH * NEWS FLASH * NEWS FLASH
"Private Investigator Theodore Wilder is on a mission to find Arabella Beckett. But this feisty suffragette may be more trouble than he bargained for!"―Provided by publisher.
Well, at least someone is letting it be known!
November, 1880, arriving at New York's Grand Central Railway Depot; can you imagine trying to manage getting around in this large depot! But then, not forgotten, she started out from Chicago on her own, and got off at Gilman to assist Miss James. And, before that, she chose to travel from California without her paid companion.
Her mother and brothers meet her at the station, as she leaves Theodore to fend for himself to find where she has gone through the crowd. She is on home-turf now, and continues on in her comfort.
A stab of remorse ran through her. "I am sorry, Mother, for being so negligent. I'm afraid I sometimes get so consumed with my cause that I occasionally forget to keep you and Father abreast of my whereabouts. I didn't realize I would be so late in returning to New York, but I kept getting requests to speak at rallies, and I just couldn't seem to pass up each wonderful opportunities."
--Ibid., 61
--Ibid., 61
I like the descriptiveness of Jen Turano's writing, with the humor and energy between the characters. Continuing along with Arabella, you may forget you are not there with them.
***On behalf of the author and Bethany House Publishers I was provided this complimentary book. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 3 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A fun read!
Date:June 5, 2013
lshultz
Location:Kansas
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I really enjoyed Turano's first book in this series. I was skeptical that the second book could meet my high expectations. I think I liked this one even more! You fall in love with her characters and you will miss them after the last page. This writer's talent is amazing!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 4 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Great book with many twists and turns
Date:June 4, 2013
Francis
Location:Castlegar, B.C.
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Not only was it well-written, but every time that I thought I had figured out what was going to happen next, I was pleasantly surprised by a different turn of events. Jen Turano is a wonderful author and I would highly recommend this book to others. It is filled with suspense, humour, intrigue, laughter, and romance. I am definitely going to read more books by this author.
Thank you for an enjoyable read!
Thank you for an enjoyable read!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 5 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Even better than the first in this series!
Date:June 3, 2013
SherryW
Location:Middletown, DE
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I have only had the experience of liking a second book in a series as much as or more than the 1st book two or three times. "A Most Peculiar Circumstance" has bumped that number up to four! I thoroughly enjoyed the humorous exchange between the two main characters; so much that my hubby actually asked me what I was smiling about! This book includes great action and suspense along with touching romance and a healthy dose of knowing who ultimately has everything under control. There is the perfect inclusion of repeat characters from book 1 to keep the series intertwined. I can not wait until book three is available. I encourage you to read Jen's "Ladies of Distinction" series beginning with "A Change of Fortune". Thank you Jen for sharing your talent with us.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 6 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A fun read!
Date:May 23, 2013
BookLover
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I very much enjoyed this book! The dialogue between the characters kept me laughing and I didn’t want to put it down! I loved seeing the growth in Arabella as she realized that her attitude needed to change.
My only disappointment is that I couldn’t seem to get very attached to the characters.
Overall, this is a book I would recommend if you’re looking for a light, fun read to fill some hours. If you haven’t, I would suggest reading her first book A Change of Fortune, before reading this one. I didn’t and I think I might’ve liked it better had I known what the characters were talking about. They referred to happenings in the first book often.
My opinions are based on an advance reading copy, so please don’t take my thoughts too seriously, or let them keep you from reading the book.
*I received an advance reading copy from Bethany House Publishing for my honest review, which I have given.
My only disappointment is that I couldn’t seem to get very attached to the characters.
Overall, this is a book I would recommend if you’re looking for a light, fun read to fill some hours. If you haven’t, I would suggest reading her first book A Change of Fortune, before reading this one. I didn’t and I think I might’ve liked it better had I known what the characters were talking about. They referred to happenings in the first book often.
My opinions are based on an advance reading copy, so please don’t take my thoughts too seriously, or let them keep you from reading the book.
*I received an advance reading copy from Bethany House Publishing for my honest review, which I have given.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 7 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Great Book
Date:May 23, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I loved Jen's first book A Change of Fortune so I was very excited to read this new book! I was not disappointed. Arabella is a delightful character that made me laugh many times as she interacted with others. I honestly can't imagine growing up in such a prominent family during a time when women were only meant to have children and cook and clean. Arabella clearly pushes the envelope and lands herself in jail a couple of times, which the author laces with humor. Jen Turano is such a funny author, she is so good at including small hilarious details. I'm sure if I go back and re-read her books I will notice new details I didn't the first time.
You don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one, but there are the same characters in both so I was glad that I had read the first book.
You don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one, but there are the same characters in both so I was glad that I had read the first book.
I highly recommend this book for some history on women's rights and if you need a laugh.
"I received this book from Bethany House and the author for free in exchange for an honest review."
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 8 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Delightful!
Date:May 22, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I enjoyed this book so much.
Arabella Beckett, whose brother's story was told in the first book, is off on her own working for the suffragette movement when she lands in jail in another state. Her parents hire Theodore Wilder (we met him last book, too) to find her. Theodore is a private investigator of the first rate, by the way. I really enjoyed getting to know him in this book and he is a very romantic character, despite his avowals to the contrary.
He chases Arabella down and the scene in the jail is absolutely hilarious and wonderful. Both of them can't stand the other, constantly arguing and baiting each other, but something is definitely afoot in this relationship.
Throw in even more mayhem, kidnapping, murder, assuming identities and you have the most wonderful and delightful book you'll read this year.
And even MORE good news is that there is another book in the series coming in October!!! Yay!!!!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 9 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
High Society Will Never Be the Same
Date:May 21, 2013
Cassandra Wessel
Location:Pennsylvania
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Set in the 1880s, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, by Jen Turano opens with Arabella Beckett in a most humiliating circumstance—jail. This daughter of Douglas and Gloria Beckett of the New York City railroad Becketts, suffragette and public speaker, blithely presumes upon God’s grace. “She opened her eyes and nodded. That should do the trick. God would show her a way out….” Needless to say, God answers her prayer by throwing her into circumstances that are designed to show this privileged lady just exactly Who is in charge—and it’s not Arabella.
Theodore Wilder of New York City’s high society, famous private investigator and very eligible bachelor, is hired by Arabella’s mother to track her down. He shows up to ‘spring’ the lady from a small town jail. Did I mention Theodore is handsome to the point of ladies swooning? Thus the battle of the sexes, and another romantic frolic through high society begins, but everything is not as it seems.
Branching off fancy streets lined with impressive mansion, garbage strewn alleyways plunge into darkness. Women of the night housed in them slum along the docks after dark, some disappearing. Will Arabella, Agatha and their friends discover who is behind it before more get snatched?
But the real question haunting Theodore is—could some evil be stalking Arabella as she attempts to discover who is behind the disappearances? How will he keep her safe and not lose his heart in the process?
Jen Turano has concocted yet another rollicking farce reminiscent of George Bernard Shaw comedies. Beneath the light, and sometimes boring banter of society belles and their matchmaking mothers, percolates an undercurrent of serious commentary upon society’s ills and its values. Questions, as valid today as they were in the 1880s, glide throughout the character’s thought processes. They ponder what roles are proper for women. What constitutes freedom and are only men entitled to it? When is compromise acceptable? Does station in life determine who is acceptable in one’s parlor? What role does lack of education play in the poverty of women?
If what the reader wants is a light comedy to read before bedtime, the first half of this book could fit the bill, except that it is a serious work dealing in a light hearted fashion with issues facing us today, and it becomes a page turner about midway through. Also, Jen Turano does know how to make a reader chuckle, laugh and even guffaw—a definite disadvantage if one’s spouse wants to sleep. If the reader desires a challenge while being entertained, then by all means, buy this book. You will not be disappointed by the time you read the words, “The End.” This book earned a four star rating from this reviewer based on its complicated plot and delightful humor. It is a fine novel. I received A Most Peculiar Circumstance from Bethany House and am under no obligation to provide a positive review.
Theodore Wilder of New York City’s high society, famous private investigator and very eligible bachelor, is hired by Arabella’s mother to track her down. He shows up to ‘spring’ the lady from a small town jail. Did I mention Theodore is handsome to the point of ladies swooning? Thus the battle of the sexes, and another romantic frolic through high society begins, but everything is not as it seems.
Branching off fancy streets lined with impressive mansion, garbage strewn alleyways plunge into darkness. Women of the night housed in them slum along the docks after dark, some disappearing. Will Arabella, Agatha and their friends discover who is behind it before more get snatched?
But the real question haunting Theodore is—could some evil be stalking Arabella as she attempts to discover who is behind the disappearances? How will he keep her safe and not lose his heart in the process?
Jen Turano has concocted yet another rollicking farce reminiscent of George Bernard Shaw comedies. Beneath the light, and sometimes boring banter of society belles and their matchmaking mothers, percolates an undercurrent of serious commentary upon society’s ills and its values. Questions, as valid today as they were in the 1880s, glide throughout the character’s thought processes. They ponder what roles are proper for women. What constitutes freedom and are only men entitled to it? When is compromise acceptable? Does station in life determine who is acceptable in one’s parlor? What role does lack of education play in the poverty of women?
If what the reader wants is a light comedy to read before bedtime, the first half of this book could fit the bill, except that it is a serious work dealing in a light hearted fashion with issues facing us today, and it becomes a page turner about midway through. Also, Jen Turano does know how to make a reader chuckle, laugh and even guffaw—a definite disadvantage if one’s spouse wants to sleep. If the reader desires a challenge while being entertained, then by all means, buy this book. You will not be disappointed by the time you read the words, “The End.” This book earned a four star rating from this reviewer based on its complicated plot and delightful humor. It is a fine novel. I received A Most Peculiar Circumstance from Bethany House and am under no obligation to provide a positive review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 10 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Another delightful read from Jen Turano!
Date:May 20, 2013
3men1girlygirl
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
After reading the author's debut novella and novel, I had high expectations coming into this new release. Jen Turano went above and beyond and has definitely earned a spot on my favorite authors list! I finished the book in less than a day, and hated to see it end! A Most Peculiar Circumstance is such an enjoyable read! With a combination of wit, humor, suspense, action, romance, and history, it draws you in and keeps you hooked! It's a clean Christian read that will seriously leave you wanting more. I love that the characters have strong personalities but are still completely lovable. I highly recommend A Most Peculiar Circumstance and all of Jen's other work!
*I was provided a complimentart copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion. And honestly, if you don't want to miss a fantastic novel, you need to read this!
*I was provided a complimentart copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion. And honestly, if you don't want to miss a fantastic novel, you need to read this!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 11 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
•°o•:*:•.It Has Everything!.•:*:• o°•
Date:May 20, 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
Book#2 in The Ladies of Distinction Series has everything...strength of character, amusing comedy, romance, mystery, and Christian values. I could not wait to get my hands on book #2 and Jen Turano really delivers! It was so good, I sped through it in less than a weekend. This author is new to the scene, but she lands right on top as far as I am concerned.
I enjoyed getting to know Theodore better. We were introduced to the chauvinistic private investigator in book #1 “A Change of Fortune”. It seems there is more to him than meets the eye. His grandparents are absolutely delightful as are their résumés. His sister Katherine also becomes involved in the ludicrous antics that ensue, and adds depth to his family history and sense of where he comes from. But she does not linger in the background, but rather we get to know her in her own rite.
In book #1, we learned that Zayne and Hamilton’s sister, Arabella was away touring on behalf of the suffragist movement. Now, we get to meet her in person. She is every bit as strong as Eliza and Agatha from book #1, whom she joins forces with in book#2, and she fits right in with their knack for finding trouble. She buts heads with Theodore constantly, but in a very delightful way to the reader. She does have her sensitive moments, and she finds comfort in a very close relationship to God, which I enjoyed very much. The author does a great job of showing how God is not some distant being, but someone we can intimately share our thoughts with daily. Arabella is a well rounded character.
I love that the characters in book #1, are not left behind in the dust. Grayson returns, although still a bit in the background. He enjoys taunting Theodore, although we do not seem to know why. I am looking forward to finding out more about him in the next book, “A Talent for Trouble”.
Ladies of the night also play an important role in the mysteries of this book. I was happy to get to know a little about several of them and see them portrayed in different lights. We are given a strong lesson in the importance of not judging others, but rather opening our eyes to others circumstances and beliefs in order to have compassion and consideration.
The twists and turns of the story are edge of your seat exciting. The last several chapters are somewhat heart pounding and a bit repulsive at its evil root because these things are happening in the world still (I’m trying not to give anything away directly), and the enemy always seeks to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). But, in the end, of course good triumphs and ultimately I was both happy and satisfied. Theodore devises a very grand gesture which is so sweet for the ending.
If you have not already, be sure to download the FREE e-Novella “Gentleman of Her Dreams”, from this website, which introduces Charlotte Wilson. She will return in book #4, according to the author. Jen Turano is delightfully approachable on her FB page!
5 out of 5 stars
Things that are included: *A Lovely dedication to her father. *Discussion Questions at the end. *Sweet acknowledgements – apparently Jen comes from a very big family, which I imagine gives her lots of character qualities to draw inspiration from! :)
I received an early reviewer’s copy free from the Bethany House Publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
Heather Guerrero
May 20, 2013
Heather Guerrero
May 20, 2013
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 12 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
---4.5 Stars---
Date:May 19, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This is book two in the Ladies of Distinction series. The author briefly recaps events from A Change of Fortune (Book 1) so it is easy to follow along if one hasn’t read the first book in the series.
I was engaged from the very beginning when Miss Arabella Beckett ends up in trouble after assisting a stranger. At the request of Miss Beckett’s family, Mr. Theodore Wilder, is sent to find the independent and troublesome Arabella. The verbal sparring between the hero and heroine is engaging and entertaining.
The story flows nicely even when danger and suspense are thrown in the book. The main characters are well developed and have great chemistry. It also consists of a large cast with many individuals who are constantly reminding them how well they suit each other. There are also many twists and turns that bring the hero/heroine together throughout the book.
Arabella’s faith and prayers cause Theodore to re-examine his relationship with God. Towards the end, Arabella is also made aware of her faults and it was interesting to read of her personal growth.
Light and fun read set in the 1880’s. Clean romance and I look forward to Book 3.
Thanks to Bethany House for an advanced copy in the purpose of providing an honest review.
---4.5 STARS---
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 13 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Don't Miss this Book!!!
Date:May 19, 2013
Cort
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I received this book from Bethany House for the purposes of providing a review. This is my honest opinion of A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano.
Full of hilarious twists and turns, Jen Turano’s A Most Peculiar Circumstance cannot be missed. This book is the sequel to A Change of Fortune, but it can also stand on its own. However, I would suggest reading Change of Fortune first because it will add to the humor of this book. Although funny, this book is also full of drama and mystery.
Arabella Beckett is a strong and bold heroine, and a fine match for the chauvinistic private investigator, Theodore Wilder. However, appearances are not all they seem. Both of these characters have a softer side that they must discover all while trying to solve a plot to kidnap ladies and prostitutes from a small town and New York. Unfortunately, Arabella has dug herself deeply into the trouble, and Theodore must solve the crimes quickly before someone he loves is taken.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 14 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Fun!
Date:May 18, 2013
msh09
Location:Dallas, TX
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This is my second Jen Turano book to read. If you are looking for deep and serious, she is not the author for you. These are period pieces with a great sense of humor, fun banter, and unusually entertaining predicaments. I look forward to her next novel.
Arabella Beckett is active in the suffrage movement and finds herself being rescued by a family friend who is known for his dislike for anything that involves women speaking up. He believes, as did society at the time, that they have a very distinct role that involves not having opinion about pretty much anything. This is an entertaining tale of their struggle with opposing views mixed with attraction.
I received this book from Bethany House for the purposes of providing a review. This is my honest opinion of A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 15 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Awesome story, Awesome characters!!!
Date:May 15, 2013
allimo81
Location:Mahomet, IL
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I loved it!!! 4.5 stars!! Jen does a fabulous job with the witty back and forth banter between Arabella and Theodore. Great chemistry, and I was hooked from the very beginning! It was a fun story/mystery that kept bringing these two characters (that claimed that they couldn't stand each other) into each others' paths in a very natural (and not forced!) way. So many different parts of the story had me laughing out loud, and there were also a few really great spiritual lessons that were expertly written in as well! This is the second book in her Ladies of Distinction series, and since the characters from book one are all in this one as well - you may want to pick up and read book one "A Change of Fortune" before reading this one. I've read that one also, and I highly recommend it!! Overall - awesome story, awesome characters, and I can't wait for book three - "A Talent for Trouble" - set to release October 1st of this year! :)
*In the interest of disclosure - I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 16 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
Date:May 8, 2013
Arabella Beckett is an advocate for the suffragette movement, and she travels across the country giving speeches supporting the cause. She was on her way home when she got sidetracked into helping someone. As she helped free the woman, things quickly spiraled out of control. When the sheriff came, Arabella looked guilty and was sent to the jail. As she considers her plight in walks the handsomest man ever, Mr. Wilder.
Theodore Wilder is a private investigator, and the Beckett family hired him to find Arabella before her brother's wedding. After a month of searching, he finds her in a jail which is the last place he thinks a respectable young lady should be. Needless to say they argue incessantly the whole way back to New York, but when Miss Beckett's life becomes in danger it's Theodore who comes to the rescue.
Theodore and Arabella are forced to hang out together, and they both realize they have misjudged the other. As they start to fall in love, they can't help but wonder if they will ever be able to resolve their differences.
I love the main characters, and there were a lot of really funny moments. But it didn't seem too flow as well as the first one. Plus, I didn't like how in both books she put the same recurring theme of getting thrown into jail. It just made it seem much more unrealistic that way. But even still, I really enjoyed this book. Her characters are so distinct and funny in their own ways, and I can't wait to find out more about Felicia in the next book! She is intriguing. :-)
I was given this free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 17 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A Fantastic Follow-up
Date:May 8, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I was very excited to read this book, since I loved Ms. Turano's first novel, and I wasn't disappointed. Her characters are strong, deep, and humorous. I absolutely loved the friendships that developed between Arabella, her sister-in-law Eliza (from Book 1), and Agatha (also from Book 1), and the addition of Theodore's sister Katherine. They were funny and strong, yet never too independent to seek guidance from God, or to accept help from others. Arabella was able to promote the cause of women's right to vote, yet realize that she may have not been altogether altruistic. She says "I've been so smug in my belief that God specifically chose me to change the lives of women, when in actuality it seems I'm the one whose life needs to change." And change she does. I love watching her growth through the book, even through her "peculiar circumstance[s]."
This book was also really well tied to the first novel, with a brief yet effective synopsis delivered via other characters filling in Arabella on what she missed while she was traveling. I'm especially excited now to read book 3, looking forward to more of this writing style and continuing to enjoy the characters I've already come to love.
I give this book 4 stars. Ms. Turano is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I received a copy of this e-book from Bethany House Publishers, in exchange for my honest review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 18 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A good read
Date:June 11, 2013
Lady Di
Location:Oklahoma
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
A Most Peculiar Circumstance is a charming and delightful historical Christian romance by Jen Turano about Arabella Beckett and Theodore Wilder. Prior readers of Ms. Turano will recognize Ms. Beckett as the sister of Hamilton Beckett from a prior novel. Arabella finds herself in the middle of a messy circumstance while travelling back home to New York. She has taken a side trip to help out someone, and has landed herself in jail. She is rescued by Theodore, a man her family has sent to bring her home. Arabella and Theodore are at cross purposes from the start, true opposites. Arabella is an activist for women's rights and a little too free for Theodore's tastes. However, there is that saying about opposites attracting. It doesn't take long for Theodore to figure out that his tastes have changed and that Arabella is what he wants. That is, if he can manage to keep her out of trouble long enough.
Arabella's penchant for getting into trouble and Theodore's arrival after almost every circumstance keeps the reader moving right along with the story. The story was lacking in detail in some sections to give more of an understanding of the growing attraction between the characters, in my opinion. However, this did not detract from the my overall enjoyment of the story and the characters. I found the story very enchanting and would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read in the historical Christian romance genre.
*I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an unbiased review.*
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 19 for A Most Peculiar Circumstance, Ladies of Distinction Series #1
Overall Rating:
A Most Enjoyable Read!
Date:April 16, 2013
Pamela Jo
Location:Bucks County, PA
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
"A Most Peculiar Circumstance" captured my attention on the first page and held my interest through the final page. It is one of those wonderful novels which one can't put down!
The main character, Miss Arabella Adams, is a women's suffrage activist intent on helping women better their circumstances. Her good intentions get her into quite a bit of trouble.
Private Investigator, Theodore Wilder, is sent in search of Arabella when her family can't locate her. Theodore finds her in jail as a result of Arabella trying to help a naive young woman who thought she was going to marry a man she never met. That situation is the basis for the plot of the story and leads to much more trouble for Arabella and Theodore.
Independent and unwilling to admit she needs help, Arabella is immediately at odds with Theodore Wilder. He is chauvenistic and believes a woman's place is in the home, catering to her husband.
Thus, "A Most Peculiar Circumstance" takes off and leads the reader down a high-spirited path of adventure, suspense and romance. Along the way, you will meet many interesting characters, most of whom try their matchmaking skills with Arabella and Theodore. A most unlikely match, indeed!
While enjoying this book, I found myself laughing out loud, cheering for BOTH Arabella and Theodore, and learning much about the women of the 19th Century. This novel also carries a serious message about our judgment of others. Arabella and Theodore have strong opinions, but through their involvement with one another, they learn to accept differences in others. This leads them to realize they can overcome their own stubborn, independent streaks and find themselves accepting each other, too.
It truly is a "Most Peculiar Circumstance" when they find themselves falling in love!
Thanks to "Library Thing," I was provided with an "Early Reviewers" copy of this book. What good fortune it has been to receive the novel, as I am now an avid Jen Turano fan!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.