Book Review: Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano
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Synopsis of the book:
After years of hiding her true nature, Miss Temperance Flowerdew is finally enjoying freedom outside of the shadow of her relations, so the last thing she expected on her way to work was to be grabbed off the street by a stranger and put on a train bound for Chicago.
When Mr. Gilbert Cavendish is called upon to rescue a missing woman, he follows the trail to Chicago only to discover that the woman is his good friend, Temperance. Before they can discover who was behind her abduction, they’re spotted alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk.
Even though Gilbert is willing to propose marriage, Temperance is determined not to lose her newfound independence. But when the misunderstanding in Chicago escalates into a threat on her life, accepting Gilbert’s help in solving the mystery may lead to more than she ever could have dreamed.
My review:
I can always count on this author supplying me a fun story with quirky characters, laugh out loud situations, and sweet romance. This story was all of that. It was also a roller coaster ride the entire way. Just when I thought Temperance and Gilbert would find their way out of trouble, more would find them. In the end love conquers all and we get to enjoy a happy ever after for a beloved couple.
I was hooked from the start as Temperance was abducted and involved in a few misunderstandings. I really enjoyed her free spirit and determination to rise above her circumstances while being true to herself.
I could really identify with Gilbert who was a list man and a planner. He was the opposite of Temperance and they really balanced each other. I especially loved it when he got so caught up in his feelings that he missed appointments. His confusion at this softening of his character was so endearing to me.
As usual, there were a cast of quirky, yet lovable characters to help Temperance and Gilbert out. I have not read the previous books in the series, but will be sure to do so because I want to know more about these colorful people.
This was a roller coaster ride and I will admit to needing a breather from the ever present trouble that stalked them. I was also a tiny bit disappointed with the mystery surrounding Temperance’s parents. Something about it just didn’t feel authentic to me.
This story neatly ties up the series and has a nicely woven inspirational thread throughout.
What I enjoyed most about this book:
I liked Gilbert so much but I think I enjoyed the secondary characters even more.
What I didn’t like about this book:
The tying up of the mystery with Temperance’s parents. I figured it out a few chapters before and didn’t care for the way it was handled when it actually happened.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes. Quirky yet lovable characters, funny situations, nice inspirational thread, and above all, sweet romance. This is the third book in the series. It can be read as a standalone. I had no problem keeping up with the secondary characters, but I wish that I had read the first two books in the series prior to this one. I think I would have enjoyed all of the characters even more.
Note: I received this book complimentary from the author. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.
Where can I learn more about this author and their books?
-Loraine Nunley
6 Comments
Laura W.
After reading your review I am even more eager to read this book and see about the mystery of Temperance’s parents. I have the other two but not this one yet!
Loraine
I read this one for a blog tour and now I need to go back to read the first two in that series. Thanks for reading my review Laura. 🙂
Winnie Thomas
I absolutely adore Jen Turano’s books, and Caught by Surprise was such a fun read! Thanks for the review!
Loraine
You’re welcome Winnie. Thanks for commenting. 🙂
Vivian Furbay
Read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. Love the suspense also.
Loraine
Thanks for commenting Vivian. 🙂