Member Reviews
Love this story! Jen Turano once again does not disappoint! I had a hard time putting this book down and had it read in a few days! Always looking forward to more from Ms. Turano
This book was absolutely hilarious. It made me laugh every couple of minutes because of how ridiculously funny some of the characters' antics were. It's honestly the perfect book for when you want something lighthearted and hilarious but still with rich themes and an intriguing plot.
Having read some of Jen's other works since reading Flights of Fancy, I have to say that it isn't her best one so far (in my humble opinion) because some of the plot details were stretched a bit toooooo far and were extremely unrealistic (still made for a good laugh though!). I'm still really excited to read Diamond in the Rough and would completely recommend Turano's books.
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
Isadora Delafield is running away and as the daughter of one of the wealthiest men in the country, that's kind of a big deal, especially when she tries to become a servant. And that is all I will say about that because I don't want to give out spoilers.
Picture that and all the interesting dilemmas that could result from that, along with some rogue animals and you have a rather funny story. But for me, that's really all it was. It was rather unrealistic to me and I found myself thinking more like "seriously?" than "wow, this is great."
The writing style is great, I have no complaints on Jen's style of writing and the conversation is fun and witty. Isadora's ability to deflect questions and change conversations is intriguing, etc. And there's a bit of mystery involved where you wonder how everything is going to work out.
Overall, though it was a little too off the wall for me at this time. I think, possibly, I could read the book at a later date and like it a lot more. I have read a lot of books of this genre lately and I think that is reflected in my thoughts on this book.
I will say this though, I did really appreciate the ending as it related to Isadora's parents. I thought that was quite remarkable.
I received this book from Bethany House via NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review.
This first outing in Jen Turano's new series is a bit hard to describe concisely, and it is also difficult not to tell too much (or everything). But even thinking about the story of New York heiress Isadora Delafield who, disguised as "Izzy Delmont," appears at Glory Manor just outside of small town Canonsburg, Pennsylvania in answer to an ad for a housekeeper only to be greeted by a shotgun, has me smiling. And then there's the hero of the story, Ian MacKenzie, who is determined to marry into society but also devoted to the couple who took him in as an orphan. Not to mention that sweet couple, facing troubles of their own, who have taken in newly orphaned siblings Violet, Primrose, Daisy, and Henry.
What ensues is a blend of heiress on the run getting into situations as only Jen Turano can write, mill politics, a dastardly duke, suspicious goings on, a bit of drama and suspense, a great deal of humor, some touching moments, and just right romance.
Whether you are a fan of Jen Turano or if Flights of Fancy is your first experience of her writing, you are in for a treat. It is such a fun Historical Christian Romance! The expression on the cover model's face says it all.
This review refers to an advance digital galley read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really needed a laugh and this book took care of that need. There are so many wonderfully crazy things in this book that kept me turning the pages wondering how it would all turn out. Seriously, who would let a chicken or a cow in the house as pets? Would you hire a housekeeper who couldn't boil water? Crazy!
Isadora is a New York socialite who needs a place to hide from an unwanted and murderous suitor. She finds it at a farm in Pennsylvania. She struggles and wants to be successful as a housekeeper, but when you have goats eat the laundry, it can cause complications. She has one complication after another. There are many moments where you had to laugh.
Ian is a successful attorney. He needs the farm to be as uncomplicated as possible so he can conduct business in the city. He just needs someone to manage things, deal with his aging Aunt and Uncle and the four kids they decided to take in in their old age.
This book isn't all about the humor, there are some conflicts. Ian and Isadora have some huge challenges to overcome. But really, the humor runs the book.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. My thanks to Bethany House for approving my request. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Jen Turano is one of my favorite authors and I always make sure to grab her books as soon as they are released. This novel is creative and fun with lots of hilarious scenes that made me laugh along the way. The characters are easy to like but also have a depth and development that add to the story. And the author makes incorporating historical tidbits and Biblical principles seem easy as the storyline flows seamlessly. I enjoyed this book and am eagerly awaiting the rest of the series!
I received an e-copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Miss Isadora Delafield may be an heiress, but her life is far from carefree. When her mother begins pressuring her to marry an elderly and uncouth duke, she escapes from the high society world she's always known and finds herself to be an unlikely candidate for a housekeeper position in rural Pennsylvania. Mr. Ian MacKenzie is known for his savvy business sense and has built his reputation and fortune completely on his own merits. But when his adopted parents are in need of a new housekeeper and Isadora is thrown into his path, he's unexpectedly charmed by her unconventional manner.
Jen Turano has written another delightful story. Having grown up on a farm myself, I had a good chuckle at her chicken incident. It is hard for me to believe someone could be so innocent but Isadora had led a protected life. Not only was the book fun, it also had that suspenseful part that Jen is famous for including in her books. You think you know how things are going to turn out but it's all about how you get there that keeps you guessing. This book included more than one bad guy. Just when you thought all would end well, things really go wrong.
While Jen does not hit you over the head with the religious aspects of the book, she does weave it in and make the point. Her books are always 'clean' romance. While I am not a true romance reader, I really do like her books. I know that I can curl up on the sofa with one of her books and I won't have to worry about what the book contains. Actually I think I would very much like to meet Ian. Well, maybe Isadora, too. They really seem like fun people to know.
I received an advance reading copy of this book. The comments in this review of my very own.
It has been too long since I read a Jen Turano book! There is no excuse for that.
In her usual humor and fun, Jen comes with this new book about an heiress with a mind of her own, a gentle giant for a hero, a quirky uncle, and too much cuteness involved with a few red-headed children.
Also, the layers of tenderness and vulnerability surrounding her characters make this book more than just a pass time, but a journey - a heartfelt, adventurous journey! I'm so looking forward to the next book!
I enjoyed this book! The characters were great, and I liked the relationship between Izzie and Ian. While the antics upon their first meeting were highly unlikely, they were nevertheless entertaining. Both Izzie and Ian grew as characters by the end of the book. Other characters were endearing, namely Aunt Birdie and Uncle Amos, and the orphan children they've adopted. I love historical fiction, and I especially love stories set in the countryside or on farms.
Things I didn't like: I found some scenes to drag on, and felt at times the conversations were overly explanatory, to the point where I wondered if the author was targeting a much younger audience who wouldn't get insinuated meanings. I also didn't think Izzie would have been able to adapt so quickly to a new 'lower' environment, and even take to menial labor. I can't imagine she was a very good society lady, and seemed to have a proclivity for falling into ponds. Izzie's mother also seemed very inept at life. Without giving too much away, I find it very hard to believe that neither she nor her staff realised they hadn't been receiving any correspondence, especially since the heiress was missing!
Were there a lot of unrealistic things in this book? Yes. Were there a lot of things to like in this book? Yes. It was a really fun, light read that made for a great book before bed. I would definitely check out other books by this author.
Miss Isadora Delafield may be an heiress, but her life is far from carefree. When her mother begins pressuring her to marry an elderly and uncouth duke, she escapes from the high society world she’s always known and finds herself to be an unlikely candidate for a housekeeper position in rural Pennsylvania. Mr. Ian MacKenzie is known for his savvy business sense and has built his reputation and fortune completely on his own merits. But when his adopted parents are in need of a new housekeeper and Isadora is thrown into his path, he’s unexpectedly charmed by her unconventional manner. Neither Isadora nor Ian expected to find the other so intriguing, but when mysterious incidents on the farm and the truth of Isadora’s secret threaten those they love, they’ll have to set aside everything they thought they wanted for a chance at happy-ever-after.
My Thoughts: Another winner from Jen Turano! This one will not disappoint the reader. As always Jen comes through with wonderful characters and an intriguing storyline. The reader will be amused as they read along and become acquainted with the characters.
I truly enjoyed this book, a wonderful historical romantic for anyone to enjoy. This one comes highly recommended. I look forward to the next in the series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This delightfully funny romance is full of characters you will not soon forget.
We have a Duke from London who Izzie's mother wants her to wed. It is her wish for her daughter to marry well and into a title no matter that the said Duke is loathsome.
Wanting nothing to do with the man who can't seem to get the picture Izzie runs and hides in the most unlikely place possible, a farm as the housekeeper.
Imagine a high society miss trying to pass herself off as a housekeeper.
Enter 4 wonderful orphan children and a host of farm animals along with an elderly couple that love God and their animals more than their own life.
I laughed until I cried at points during this wonderful story.
This isn't the first book I have read by this author but it may be the best.
I gave this story 4.8 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development. You will be carried on a wonderous ride with every page turn of this exciting and well written tale.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
I always enjoy reading Jen Turano’s novels. They make me laugh and strike the imagination. In Flights of Fancy Isadora is clearly a character out of place. Her background has not prepared her to be a housekeeper, but circumstances have left her no choice except to succeed. And truly, I loved how when confronted with all the areas of her life in which she measured herself and found herself wanting she refused to wilt into a corner, but instead leaned into learning how to be a better woman.
Ian is a character backed entirely into a corner by his family’s need, a collection of orphans and some crazy antics that come with life on the farm. (The cow…oh how I laughed at the cow!) Though Isadora seems woefully unequipped for the job she is available and determined.
As circumstances build, secrets abound, and the humor and chaos I’ve come to expect from Turano fills page after page. Sparks fly and Ian and Isadora learn valuable lessons about life and love.
I adored this book and would highly recommend it if you want a lighthearted and enjoyable story to brighten your day.
I received a free digital copy of this book for review
in exchange for my honest opinion.
If you are looking for a book full of humor, fun and romance you will definitely find it in this book. Jen Turano's new series, American Heiresses, will end up being a favorite of mine for 2019. I love her writing style and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Jen Turano was a new-to-me author that friends who enjoy historical romance have raved about. My friends were not wrong. I like the premise of a society heiress escaping an unpleasant (and somewhat) arranged marriage. Izzy jumps off the page and comes to life in rural Pennsylvania, while Ian brings balance and strength to match Izzy's resolve.
I'll be preordering the rest of the series with eager anticipation.
Jen Turano's Flights of Fancy is aptly named, for our main character, Izzie, as well as for us readers. Entertaining and delightful, it's like a vessel that carried our minds to many flights of fancy. 🤣 I felt like I was with Izzie from the beginning, even the many hilarious first scenes at Glory Manor to the various escapades as an heiress trying to be a staff.
Filled with light-hearted banter and the author's trademarked witty humor, readers will close this story charmed and can't wait for the next one in the American Heiresses series!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
It’s no secret that Jen Turano is an extraordinary author. Each and every one of her books brings joy and a smile to my face. There’s not a lot of authors that bring humor to their historic novels, which is too bad, because I happen to think they go together quite nicely. Turano thinks that as well.
I have been excited about Flights of Fancy since I first heard about it. A high society socialite disguising herself as a housekeeper? Sign me up! And while you know what the final outcome of the book is going to be, it is a romantic story after all, that doesn’t stop you from enjoying every single moment of it. Turano writes in such a way that you become involved in the story line. She makes you fall in love with every single character, whether they are primary or secondary.
Isadora is a hoot in this book, but what I liked about her the most was her journey in finding out what God wanted for her life. She blossomed without having her mother around to correct everything she did, and I enjoyed seeing her grow into this beautiful, strong woman. And I must say this, when she first arrived at Glory Manor, well I have never laughed so hard over a book. In fact, I had to read the scene out loud to my daughter because it was so hysterical. This my friends is why I love reading Turano’s books.
Along with the humor, she provides little lessons that will stick with you for a long time. Such as this…… “My dear, it has been my experience that God occasionally throws obstacles our way so that we’re forced to grow into the people He wants us to be.” That is my absolute favorite quote of the entire book, and not because it sets the theme for the entire book. If we’re honest, it sets the theme for all of our own, individuals lives. When I look back at everything I’ve been through, this quote absolutely makes sense and brings peace. In the midst of humor, romance and mystery, Turano has managed to speak straight to my heart about something so deep that I wasn’t expecting to find it here.
Friends, Jen Turano is a brilliant author. I adore her books, just like I adore her. If you’re looking for a great laugh, pick up this book. If you love reading historical books, read this one. If you’re looking for a deep message, you’ll find it here. And if you love seeing two people come together in unusual circumstances, you’ll see that as well. There truly is something for everyone!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jen Turano’s latest historical novel Flights of Fancy is a delightful, humorous story that readers will not want to put down. American heiress Miss Isadora Delafield is forced to flee New York to escape from her unwanted suitor the Duke of Montrose. She ends up seeking employment as a housekeeper in rural Pennsylvania and is reluctantly hired by Mr. Ian MacKenzie for a position that she has no experience doing, considering the fact that unbeknownst to him, she is a high society young woman. In true Jen Turano fashion, there were so many moments in the story where I burst out laughing, such as when the goats were eating the clothes and when Izzy was trying to do laundry and got the clothes she was wearing caught in the wringer. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of historical fiction who love a good sense of humor.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
A fun, lighthearted read. I found the book to be a little ridiculous/unbelievable sometimes but I think that was part of this story’s charm. The characters are funny and full of spunk. You will definitely be taken on an interesting ride with this book.
From the outset I took a liking to our leading lady, Isadora, and, as with a Jen Turano novel, there is a playfulness in the writing style which I so enjoy! Her arrival on the farm is now one of my favourite scenes in a novel and the book just gets better from there.
If you’re thinking this is just a historical romance, you’re selling this book short! It has mystery with strange happenings on the farm and a delusional uncle as well as a suspicious Duke and a kidnapping! It explores the meaning of family and a few savvy business moves too. God’s Love is wrapped in and lived out gently, in kindness, forgiveness and grace.
I am excited to see how this series develops and look forward to the next one, it’s a five out of five on the en-JOY-ment scale and highly recommended!
What a hilarious, totally enjoyable book! This book keeps you on the edge of your seat as you wait to see what mishaps will happen next to the main characters. You will laugh and shake your head in disbelief while all the while cheering for the main character, Isadora, who will have you head over heels in love with her from page one. Although a lighthearted read, this book also includes a depth in the characters and their beliefs. Well worth the time it takes to read!!!