I am never disappointed with a Jen Turano book, and this first book from her new series Apart From the Crowd lives up to my expectation and succeeds it. It is laugh out loud funny, has a meaningful spiritual thread with a underlying Cinderella theme. In this book she brings the Gilded age alive and colorful. As the book came to a close I found myself holding my breath and smiling. This is a great feel good book, one that will leave you smiling.

As always, Jen Turano, does not disappoint. This is a fantastic read. I loved this book. This made me laugh in so many places. There was a little bit of suspense but more fun in this story. I look forward to reading the next in this series. Permilia and Asher learn in fun ways that they are meant to be together. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit and the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I love Turano's novels. They are funny, have quirky characters, a bit of romance, and are even thought provoking.

This novel starts off with a Vanderbilt ball where one of the ladies has a dress with chicken feathers glued to it. Later on that same woman, thanks to her employer, has an orange face. It may sound crazy but makes sense because of her eccentric employer
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The most enjoyable aspect of the humorous side of this novel is the snappy dialog. Permilia has quite the ability to communicate exactly what she is thinking. Raised as somewhat of a tomboy by her mine owning father, she is now trying to be molded into high society by her persnickety stepmother. That is a recipe for disaster and Permilia feels free to express her thoughts about it.

The other characters are great too. Poor Asher. He's a gentleman who doesn't quite know what hit him when Permilia crashes into his controlled and predictable life. She is a very capable woman, something a society woman of her day was not supposed to be. Their “romance” is something else.

The novel is informative too. This was a time when women were beginning to think toward gaining the right to vote and the right to work where they wanted. Permilia is a very forward thinking woman and some of the reactions to her opinions are priceless.

Parts of this novel could have been trimmed a bit. It may not be Turano's best. Nonetheless, it is a good historical novel with humor, quirky characters, a different kind of romance, and an informative setting.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

I love Jen Turano’s books.  Behind the Scenes is a humorous tale of mischief, mayhem, and romance in the Gilded Age, and Permilia Griswold is such fun to read!

The premise of this Apart from the Crowd series is fascinating: a glimpse into the Gilded Age focused on the “wallflowers” instead of the popular ladies always twirling on the dance floor. Permilia doesn’t mind the wallflower label. Being on the fringes suits her and allows her to find fodder for her society column. She never expects to overhear a plot against businessman Asher Rutherford!

The madcap adventures that ensue with Asher, Permilia, and their friends Harrison and Gertrude make for a delightful romantic romp through New York City. Permilia’s skulking for her “Miss Quill” articles is highly entertaining, and the milk cart rescue was probably one of my favorite scenes.  Asher’s business and fashion sense was interesting, and I’m eager to read Out of the Ordinary, Harrison and Gertrude’s upcoming story.

I was a little disappointed with the sweetly-interfering older character. The Huxley sisters weren’t as much fun as Gloria Beckett or Archibald Addleshaw. Turano’s usual hint of mystery was evident here in the plot against Asher, but I have to admit that it was a little bewildering this time. Overall, though, a fun adventure with plenty of romance and Gilded Age details to enjoy!

Jen Turano has a new book released!!! Squueeeelllll
I love her books!! The new book “Behind the Scenes”
is just as entertaining and quirky as her other books and
you’ll going to love it!!!
What does a newspaper, a wallflower, a growing business,
and eccentric characters have in common?
Someone is a target for murder, who could that be?
Pick up your copy today to enter the Permillia Griswold world
to find out the answers to these questions. You will not, I repeat
you will not want to put this book down until you’ve read the
entire book. You’re going squeal with delight at this great read.
It is filled with oddities, quirkiness, humor, delight and romance.
Don’t ya just love her name. Jen Turano comes up with the craziest names
and their stories fit perfectly together.


Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating: 5*

Filled with plenty of hilariously laugh out loud moments, Turano writes her signature type of tale. However, I have to say, Behind The Scenes didn't deliver the chemistry I have come to expect from her. I love her work, but this is my least favorite book by Turano thus far.

Protagnist, Permilia was an absolutely well written and great character. I simply adore her. Hero, Asher Rutherford, however, just didn't measure up for me. He was...boring. Permilia Griswold was not. How could she be with a name like Permilia Griswold?! I felt the love story portion of this love story was flat and I didn't find myself routing for Asher.

Turano did set us up for the next story in the series and I admit that I am looking forward to it. I was much more excited to read Harrison's emerging tale.

All in all, because Harrison peaked my interest and I loved Permilia and because I did laugh, I would still recommend it to less particular Turano fans.

I rated this book a little less than four stars because I didn't care for the hero and the love story lacked chemistry.

If you have ever been stuck on the sidelines in a wallflower position, you will absolutely love this book! Jen Turano has once again created a delightful historical romance that will have you laughing and cheering on the characters as they struggle with a dastardly threat that puts their lives at risk. Miss Permilia Griswold is a feisty young woman who has been relegated to the sidelines because of her father's financial demise. In an unprecedented move she becomes friends with the other women who for whatever reason are relegated to the sidelines of posh New York society.

Turano has an amazing way of causing her readers to fall in love with characters who are so honest and flawed that one can't help but hope for their success against all odds.

I highly recommend that you read the novella, At Your Request (free for Kindle here). While Behind the Scenes truly stands alone, you will meet some of the characters and get a better feel for their situations if you read the novella first.

Honestly, I will read every book Jen Turano writes! They are all delightful.

Oh my stars but this book is a doozy, in mostly the right ways. Permilia is nothing short of a slightly ditzy yet really too smart for her ow good sort of character. Raised by a single father in the late 1800's he remarries to someone that can introduce her to the New York social scene, thinking that it would make her happy and be of future benefit to her. He was partly wrong. She doesn't 'take' to the social scene and is quickly relegated to a 'Wallflower' or outsider. But like any self-respecting too quick for her own good woman, Permilia makes the most of her situation. She makes friends with the other Wallflowers, something not traditionally done, apparently if you are a Wallflower you are to sit on the sidelines and think about what you've done to not fit in. Through all of this she meets Asher, a very eligible gentleman of the true elite society. And they form a slightly awkward, weird bond over an overheard threat to kill him, though he didn't believe her. A few twists of mystery and well you know the drill with a romance...

There were a few things with this book that didn't quite appeal to me. I felt like so many of the situations were contrived and didn't feel natural or even really accurate to the time period. They weren't inaccurate but just lacked authenticity. Permilia seemed to find herself in such awkward situations that felt too outlandish which left me lacking substance with the story. Even the mystery, blown up and then left to someone else to deal with, until it was time to reveal the truth. Though the truth did take me by surprise so the book actually gained about half a star for that. This is a Christian novel but for me the faith felt like a toss-aside. Like oh wait, um yeah here's a good place to throw a touch of God in but lets make it sorta random OK? I didn't feel like the introduction of faith and the conversations about faith truly fit into the overall scheme where they were used. The faith wasn't subtle but it wasn't consistent either. It felt like an afterthought. The last thing I want to touch on is the dialogue. Oh my gravy, it felt as though the book was all talk and now show. And the dialogue was so convoluted at times and the back and forth between speakers was easy lost on who was speaking now. I'm convinced that Permilia and Asher both speak in near run-on sentences that twist and turn instead of just sharing a conversation.

That being said, it was a good book with a great story...even with the neat little bow at the end (you know how I feel about that by now I hope!). Permilia had a good heart, a good mind, and a solid sense of self. That last one is hard to find in the average person, much less someone thrown into a situation they didn't want, don't care for, and aren't accepted in. Asher is a self-possessed gentleman that has managed to take life circumstances and do something most people wouldn't entertain. And he did it with style and heart. Though the Huxley sisters are my absolute favorite characters and add so much flavor to the story. I'd have loved to see more of Mrs. Davenport as well and hope she features more in future books in the series. I would also like to see what becomes of Permilia's dad and stepmother since their secrets came out as well and then has them trotting off to Paris with her step-sister and potential suitor. Yes, there's a neat little bow but the strings are still hanging to hopefully be addressed in future books.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

Behind the Scenes is a fun frolic in Gilded Age New York City. I have thoroughly enjoyed each of Jen's books that I've read, and this one continued in the same vein. Crazy heroines who don't fit into the Gilded Age aristocracy and heroes who aren't quite sure what to make of the heroines. Miss Permilia Griswold has been cast as a wallflower, only she's one with a twist: she's a society reporter for a large newspaper on the sly. While at the event of the season she overhears a murder plot and decides it's her duty to stop the attack. The only problem is Asher Rutherford doesn't believe her claims of a plot or that his life's in danger. The book is filled with colorful characters, smart dialogue, and a couple twists. The romance is fairly direct, but very enjoyable. I'm already wondering who will serve as heroine in the next book. Behind the Scenes is a very enjoyable, light romance for those who love the Gilded Age time-period.

Jen Turano is one of my favorite authors, this is book one from Apart from the Crowd series and I can not wait for more. Turano always has so much spunk, drama, mystery and of course romance in her books. Twist, turn and laughter. I love how she develops her characters and keeps you wanting to know more about all the characters, which makes a great series.

Miss Permilia Griswold is a fun, outgoing, wealthy woman that does not quit fit into the high society, which she does not really care either way. When she becomes aware of a death threat to a new 'friend' will she be able to keep him safe and find herself too?

Mr. Asher Rutherford is a handsome, wealthy store owner, who fits in nicely with the ton. When he finds Permillia fascinating and intriguing will he know how to handle everything that is thrown at him all at once, while keeping her safe?

Not only did I fall in love with Permilia and Asher but with their good friends and a couple of odd sisters. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and learning more about this community.

I love the characters that this author creates. Permilia had such depth and a great personality. I enjoyed her no-nonsense approach to life. I also appreciated how she was happy and secure in herself. She was indeed a great role model. Asher was such fun. He also was a great character with his integrity and his work ethic. Together they were so much fun to watch. They had a give and take relationship that, although I knew where they would end up, it was quite fun to watch it develop.

The story itself was good. At times it was a little slow paced, for me, however, it was fun trying to figure out who was truly behind the threats on Asher's life. The author does give you some hints, but you don't find out the true story and the reasons why until the end.

I recommend this book for those of you who enjoy historical romance with a hint of mystery and humor. Many of the interactions between Permilia and Asher were hysterical!

Rate this book at 4 stars!

Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher, through netgalley.com. I was not required to leave a review.

Turano had me literally laughing out loud. My husband kept asking me what was so funny. Behind the Scenes is the first book in the Apart From the Crowd series and I can’t wait to see what comes next. This book was impossible to put down. It was full of just the right amount of mystery, romance, and silliness. I have read other books by Jen Turano and have loved them all as well. The secondary characters were all so interesting, and I can’t wait to see if they will get their own story. This story follows Permilia and Asher as they try and figure out who wants them gone.

Asher is an amazing businessman, and little does he realize, that alone is a reason someone could be after him. He prides himself on providing excellent service and in doing so has angered a competitor or two. Could they be who is coming after him? Permilia being in danger as well doesn’t sit well with Asher. She is a very unique woman, and definitely doesn’t blend in well in a crowd. Blending into the background is a whole other thing, and one she is very good at. Writing the Miss Quill column has given her something to do while at society events, and she enjoys her work. When Asher is threatened she knows she can’t sit idly by while he is in danger. Can they get to the bottom of this mystery before it’s too late?

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction. Turano did an amazing job of painting a picture with her words. I loved the antics and quirks that were unique to each character, and frankly couldn’t get enough of them. I can’t wait to read what she writes next. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

Behind the Scenes by Jen Turano is the first book in Apart from the Crowd series. Miss Permilia Griswold lives in New York City with her father, stepmother and stepsister. Permilia (what an unusual name) was raised by her father, George after her mother passed away. She traveled with him around the country while he took care of his mining business. Permilia received a man’s education and Permilia thought she would help her father run his businesses. Then George Griswold married Ida, a widow. Ida is a society woman who believes a woman should debut, get married, have children and go to parties. Ida raised her daughter, Lucy in this manner. Permilia is frustrated by all of Ida’s rules and the endless functions and society parties. The Griswold’s have been invited to Mr. & Mrs. Williams Vanderbilt’s costume ball (event of the year). Permilia is considered a wallflower by society because of her unconventional ideas, manner of dress, and the way she speaks. Mr. Asher Rutherford of Rutherford and Company (a department store) is also attending the ball. Lucy is interested in Asher, but Ida does not believe he is a suitable mate for her daughter because he is “in trade”. Permilia is sneaking around the ball taking notes for her society column Miss Quill’s Quality Corner. While helping a friend, Permilia overhears a plot to murder Asher. Permilia tells Asher about it, but he does not believe her until he is attacked with arrows. Permilia and some friends come to his rescue, but the killer will not be so easily thwarted. Asher and Permilia will need to join forces to find the evildoer, before they find themselves in the obituary pages instead of the society columns.

I was looking forward to Jen Turano’s Behind the Scenes. I had enjoyed the lighthearted humor and engaging characters in her A Class of Their Own series. What I appreciated in that series was missing in Behind the Scenes. I found the writing to be awkward with stilted dialogue. Permilia was too peculiar (her education, way she spoke, unusual dress, clumsy, cannot dance, gets tongue-tied, etc.). I did not understand Asher being so possessive of Permilia at the ball. They had only had two unpleasant encounters prior to this occasion. Asher went out of his way to protect Permilia especially from Eugene Slater, an interested suitor. Then there is the offensive stepmother, Ida and her equally annoying daughter, Lucy. I give Behind the Scenes 2 out of 5 stars. I just did not like Behind the Scenes. I tried to read the complete novel, but it was impossible. I ended up skimming through some portions of the story. The ball scene took up 35% of the book (it seemed like it went on forever). The reader is subjected to every little detail about the ball. The dances, what people were wearing, room décor, food, and so forth (this attention to detail continues throughout the book). There was also one inane incident after another. I do not mind some light, fun humor, but this was just plain silly (idiotic would be a better word). Every single one of the wallflowers were eccentric. I found the ending to be predictable. The mystery was easily solved early in the story. The Christian element was very light. I did like Mrs. Davenport and the Huxley sisters (Mabel and Henrietta). I think a book about Mrs. Davenport would be more entertaining (what a character). I believe I will be skipping the rest of the Apart from the Crowd series.

Behind the Scenes is the first book in Jen Turano's Apart From the Crowd series. This historical piece taking place in New York is particularly amusing for those of us who find social class stigmas to be ridiculous and limiting. Enter Permilia Griswold who dares to defy all of these social norms and create a meaningful purpose for her life.

The antics of Permilia are often humorous as one considers the stuffiness of the social elite. Asher Rutherford is unsure whether to be attracted to or merely confused by Permilia's behaviors. It is fun to tag along as these characters evaluate their principles and desires.

The book contains many interesting and quirky characters. Hopefully many of these are included in subsequent books. Readers will want to strangle some, hug others and just laugh along with yet a few more.

Enjoy this journey into historical New York and let yourself be caught up in the challenges and triumphs of the characters. Romance, humor and some surprises await readers.

Behind the Scenes is a Christian romance set in the glittering world of New York in the 1880s that will appeal to fans of light-hearted historical fiction. I really enjoyed reading the details of New York society (Mrs. Vanderbilt and Mrs. Astor make appearances), and Turano does an excellent job bringing history to life. The beginning of the book is painfully slow, however, with nearly the first third of the book focused on Permilia being awkward at the Vanderbilts' ball. Things finally pick up when she overhears a murder plot involving her love interest, Mr. Asher Rutherford--read the book to find out if Permilia solves the mystery! A very cute love story that is perfect for younger readers.

Thank you to Bethany House and the Netgalley for the preview copy!

Hilarious action packed fun that pulls on your heartstrings. A delightful Cinderella-esque story with a special young lady you're sure to love. (Christian Historical Romance) Miss Permilia Griswold grew up with her father at his mines. Because of this upbringing she acquired special talents and a no-nonsense view on life. A new Stepmother leads her father to believe that since they are a wealthy family Permilia should be introduced to and take her place in Society. As you can imagine it was not an easy fit - and she was relegated to Wallflower status. Which was actually an advantage since she also has a soft heart and needs to earn money to help support her charity. Wait - she's from a wealthy family but has to earn money? That's some Stepmother she has - treating Permilia badly behind her father's back, yet elevating her own daughter. We need a hero!

Asher is a handsome business man who is quite comfortable in Society, but if they were aware of his family's financial situation they might not be so welcoming. He also realizes that he is a bit of a Dandy.

Stir in mystery, a murder attempt and madcap supporting characters in fast paced action. Did I mention Permilia's fabulous fashion taste and affinity for bargain shopping? Who did you think the hero was going to be?

I've said it before and I'll say it again - Cheer up! Read a Jen Turano book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Bethany House Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. 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”. http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html

After reading the novella At Your Request I was pretty excited about Behind the Scenes. Permilia seemed like a very interesting character to get to know, and I enjoyed her brief interactions with Asher.

If you are going into this book expecting depth and realism, you will probably be disappointed. However, if you go into this book expecting over the top characters and an enjoyable time, you will find yourself immersed in the story and giggling from time to time at the ridiculousness of it all.

As usual, the supporting characters are always good for more laughs and good for the story. This story is set up nicely so you can get to know just enough of Gertrude to be interested in her story when it comes out (November 2017 I think).

I had a hard time with this book. I have read other Jen Turano books and loved them. I ended up skimming through most of it and skipping to the end of the book. Not an easy read.

Another brilliant book by Jen! I love her work, and this book doesn't disappoint. Each time I turned to a new chapter I was eager to see the plot unfold and what would happen next.