Behind The Scenes By Jen Turano

Behind the Scenes
by Jen Turano
Publisher: Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0764217944

I didn't realize when I was sent this book for review from Bethany House that I hadn't read any of Jen Turano's books before. The cover of the book piqued my interest and the premise definitely drew me in!

Summary:

After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, Miss Permilia Griswold has finally figured out a way to pass the time at all the New York high-society events she attends. Under the pseudonym "Miss Quill," she is the author of society gossip columns filled with tidbits only an insider in society--albeit one on the fringes--would know. 

When she overhears a threat against Mr. Asher Rutherford, the owner of one of the most up-and-coming department stores in the city, she's determined to warn him. But the irritatingly handsome man doesn't believe her, leaving her no choice but to take matters into her own hands. What she doesn't anticipate is that she'll end up putting herself at risk in the process--or that she and Mr. Rutherford, a man with secrets of his own, just might end up joining forces after all.

My Review:

This book cracked me up! I was literally laughing out loud, and texting my daughter about how much I was enjoying the story. Jen's writing is really delightful. I was surprised that much of the first part of the story covers a high-society event where Permilia & Asher form an interesting bond. He's one of the few men this wallflower is actually able to talk to about anything! Very telling I'd say.

When she tries to warn Asher about the murder plot, she's already proven herself a "little" over the top so he doesn't believe a word she says. That is until strange things like arrows and bullets are directed his way. Permilia shows up at some of the strangest times, but always just in time.

The extra characters in the story were fun. Permilia's wallflower sidekick, Gertrude, and Asher's odd friend, Harrison, are a great addition to the story. The strange sisters, Mabel & Henrietta, are so odd, we're not sure if they're to be trusted! They certainly add an interesting twist to the story.

I actually really enjoyed all of it until near the end. And let me say that the end isn't bad. It all happens so fast and seems just so thrown together. It has a different tone than the rest of the book with all kinds of things happening at once. I kind of had a hard time keeping it all straight. Not how I envisioned it all culminating. 

The very end brings everything back full circle to the rest of the story I enjoyed. I'm definitely going to check out the first book in the "Apart From the Crowd" series and the next book coming out this winter. Aside from the end part, I really enjoyed Jen's writing.

About the Author:

Jen Turano, author of eight books and two novellas, is a graduate of the University of Akron with a degree in clothing and textiles. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her website at www.jenturano.com.