When I reach for historical fiction, more often than not I find myself reaching for more recent history (WWII and such), as those tend to capture my interest more than any others. Jen Turano is definitely an exception though. It doesn't matter when the story takes place or even what the story is about, I will which for one of her books based on her name alone. Yes, she's that good!

I cannot think of any other author that brings a story to life quite in the way that Jen does. Her heroines are strong and quirky... and often rather ahead of their time in one way or another. I know that right from the start, I am going to be drawn into these unique characters and their humorous antics every single time. A Match in the Making did not disappoint! It was everything I had come to expect in one of her novels- the humor and fun of course, but also lots of heart too. It has me looking forward to seeing what comes next out of this new series...I can't wait!

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

I absolutely love a feisty heroine and Gwendolyn Brinley is one such terrifying lady – in a good way.

Whether in the ballroom or fishing with the children, she is right at home and being who she needs to be. But perhaps, in this story, she finds a renewed purpose than what she’d thought at first. Her match-making skills are put to the test and this delightful story will have you giggling along with the antics that occur.

Poor Walter! He becomes a better father because of it all and you’ll see why when you read this heartwarming, smile-inducing story.

This one is full of heart!

I listened to the audiobook from my local library, my opinion is my own.

A delightful book! As always, Jen Turano weaves an extraordinary tale with fantastic characters! Gwendolyn was a true delight! She knows her own mind and isn't afraid to take charge of a situation. The love story is sweet and full of hilarious situations! A definite must read!
I was provided an ARC copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

He has met his match in his matchmaker...

If I wasn't already a diehard Jen Turano fan the title of this newest series, The Matchmakers, would have intrigued me enough to check it out and A Match In The Making would have sold me on it.

A Match In The Making has all of the charm and humor that I've come to expect from Jen Turano. Her historical romantic comedy never fails to be a cut above the rest and this start to her new The Matchmakers series is proving that to be as true as ever. Each story and its main characters are unique but the hilarious hijinks and romantic sparks are there and they are what keeps me coming back for each new story.

A Match In The Making was a completely delightful read. By turns Jen Turano had me laughing out loud and wanting to drop a frog onto the laps of those snooty society ladies. But, oh, some of the antics of the other characters more than made up for my inability to reach through a fictional book. Let's just say that you should never yell “Rat!” while everyone is dressed up in their Sunday best... At any rate I sincerely enjoyed the inaugural The Matchmakers novel and I am highly anticipating the next book in the series...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

This was so fun to read that I almost didn't want it to end! I loved Qwendolyn's spunky nature, fiery temperament, and confidence. I also really appreciated Walter's unique perspective of being raised in a society that didn't focus on love as the most important part of family relationships. The book was very well written and very hard to put down.

I love this book! It is a riot right from the start. It's everything good in a clean romance story with Jen Turano's great sense of timing and humor. The author can grab my attention right away and cause me to care for the loveable characters.
Gwendolyn gets caught up in her eccentric new employer's matchmaking escapades dealing with the elite citizens who summer in Newport. She meets an insufferable wealthy man named Walter who needs a mother to settle his children down. It's an increasingly impossible quest. The more the matchmaker assistant gets to know the father and his children the harder it is to find a match.
I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion about it. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I have a feeling readers will see Gwendolyn show up again.

I needed a light fun book to read and this did not disappoint. If you're familiar with Jen Turano it is everything you love about her books. It's full of wit, rich people of New York's 400, someone who's not as rich, yet is. Some unruly, lovable children. Quirky characters. Slapstick and comedy. It's so fun.

One thing I always love about Jen Turano's books is the interesting names she gives her characters. This book is just loaded with them. And... her characters always live up to their names.

The heroine in this book is Gwendolyn. She is from a society family. But.. their reputation is not-so-stellar. And, Gwendolyn is not your run-of-the-mill society gal, she wants to do things her own way. So she takes on a job as an assistant matchmaker. Her desire to have a low-key, uneventful summer does not materialize, and she suddenly finds herself right in the middle of all the society events.

This is a Jen Turano novel, so of course the results are...well, disastrous and quite humorous.

If you are looking for a light, fun, and funny read, then look no further!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

A MATCH IN THE MAKING is a story about a strong, unconventional woman and a traditional society man who doesn't realize that she is the one he and his children need in their lives. She becomes his matchmaker unwillingly and thus ensues a story full of humor, banter, delightful familial moments, and some rather romantic and inspiring ones as well. A definite recommendation for fans of the author and genre!

This is one of those stories that had me smiling and laughing out loud almost from the first page. Turano is in her element with a witty, confident, no-nonsense heroine and a wealthy, dashing hero who form a business agreement. Like most such romance stories, close proximity and glorious banter turns into a deeper understanding as love begins to slip in regardless that they aren’t looking for it. There are a slue of memorable characters, including some spoiled but adorable children who desperately need a mother in their life. I loved the characters and the plot overall.

My only misgivings with this story was that the middle and the end seemed to drag. There was too much dialogue in places (overly wordy conversations) as well as parts where the characters almost became one-dimensional versus their more fully-fleshed selves from the beginning of the story. The only other thing were a few places that felt rather unrealistic and over the top. I loved the beginning of this story, but that flagged a bit half-way through to the end.

In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed reading this! Recommended to inspirational romance readers who want a story that will pull on all their emotions, but especially make them smile and leave them with that satisfying happily-ever-after ending! I wish that the second half of the book was as delightful as the first half, but still a book I'd recommend.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

A new Jen Turano book! Exactly what my tired heart was needing. Ms. Turano is without a doubt one of my very favorite authors and I love to read (or re-read) her books, especially when a good laugh is in order. Her stories always bring a smile to my face and I love being able to reply to the question “what’s so funny?” with the words, “oh, this book! Let me tell you about it!”
So, in the interest of continuing to answer that question, allow me to expound a bit: Matchmaking - Always great for escapades. Newport - a place I know little about, but was suddenly very interested in. Three small children - Perfect for mischief and stealing hearts. A pony. A cat lady (I absolutely adored Adelaide! I can’t wait for her story in November!). And Gwendolyn who is very no-nonsense, especially with the schemes and craziness found in Society. I think she and I would get along wonderfully, if she wasn’t simply a fictional character. And Walter, who isn’t the typical completely oblivious hero (though he does have a couple moments). I loved seeing the two of them go from annoyance to tolerance to comradery to love.
Also, did I mention there’s a shark?

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own

Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary paid companion position for the Newport summer season, believing it would be a lark to spend the summer in America's most exclusive town. She suddenly finds her summer turning anything but amusing when her employer expects her to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with the daunting prospect of attaining advantageous matches for her clients, Gwendolyn soon finds herself in the employ of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond irritating.


Walter Townsend is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children who cannot keep a governess for long. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, an amateur matchmaker who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle. Constantly besieged by society ladies on a mission to win his affection, Walter must find a way to overcome their inundating attention--and his unexpected attraction toward Gwendolyn.

The more time they spend together throughout the Newport Season, the harder it is for Gwendolyn to find Walter a wife when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.





My Thoughts: Jen Turano has done it again. The reader is introduced to the character Ms. Gwendolyn Brinley who is not looking for a spouse. In fact, Gwendolyn refuses to marry unless it is for love. Hired as a paid companion who ends up a matchmaker to Newports' upper society. Ms. Brinely has a wonderful easy-going personality that everyone loves, including an unsuspecting Walter Townsend.

Gwendolyn has a way with children, especially unruly children like the Townsend children.

This is a fun story to read, Jen Turano definitely has a way of writing that entertains the reader and brings them into the storyline. This is one book readers will not want to miss out on.

This is a wonderful story that shows us the importance of marrying for love, not class. In the 1800's it seems that marriages were like business deals, all for money and status. Gwendolyn shows Walter to reevaluate his life with his children and to realize that love for his family must come first. But can Walter find true love?



I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and 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.”

I love the author’s humor when she writes and this book is full of laugh out loud moments. The first book in this new series is a delightful look at matchmaking with a side of antics that heighten the story with chaos. Gwendolyn is such a fun character to follow with her no nonsense ethics and need to prove herself to her employer. I laughed when she soon discovered that she not only was going to be a companion to Mrs. Parker but also her matchmaking assistant. Poor thing has no idea what she is getting herself into as she begins her summer. I liked how Gwendolyn was not afraid to speak her mind when encountering people who try to, well let’s just say try to push themselves forward in a race to marry a certain gentleman. The women were not shy about tripping each other or spilling a drink on one of their competitors.

Walter is easy to figure out as he knows that he really needs a wife to help him with his three children. During the time period the story is written, the women were to be in charge of all the children’s needs and the husband was out making money. It is evident that Walter knows very little about his children when they continue to cause havoc wherever they go. I loved his children and knew they needed someone to step in and show them love while disciplining them to understand right from wrong. Walter has an encounter with Gwendolyn that doesn’t go well but she does learn what he is looking for in a wife. Their banter is fun and entertaining as Gwendolyn is now assigned to find him the perfect match. What Gwendolyn does question is why he is not looking for a marriage of love but rather a person to take care of his children.

I love the way Gwendolyn is able to make a connection with Walter’s children. They respond to her well after a few less than perfect shenanigans they try. The author shows us how important it is to give children a chance to explore their world yet be able to take direction when needed. I loved their time at the beach where Gwendolyn fishes with them and allows them to just be kids. This was such a sweet moment in the story and I could see how secure the children felt around her. There may have been a little incident as they were fishing but I will not mention it here.

The story is not only a look at matchmaking but a look at the Gilded Age where society is one that people think they are better than others. The author illustrates how we should not judge people because of their place in society. We should love each other equally and unconditionally . I loved the ending and can’t wait for the next book in the series.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

A Match in the Making by Jen Turano is the first book in The Matchmakers series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical romances with a lot of fun and humor.
Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary position as a paid companion so that she could spend a quiet summer season in Newport. From the start it has been anything, but quiet because her job went from being a companion to an assistant matchmaker instead.
Walter Townsend is searching for the perfect wife and mother for his out of control children who run their father and grandmothers ragged and send their governess fleeing. With the search for a wife now a complete debacle he finds himself fending off the society ladies attention while an unexpected attraction towards Gwendolyn continues to be growing.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in this wonderful series.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

A Match in the Making is the first book in Jen Turano’s brand new Matchmaker’s series, but is just one in a LONG line of wonderful stories that she has created. Ever since I first discovered Jen’s works many, many years ago, she has been one of my all-time favorite authors, and with each new book she only continues to solidify her place on that list.

Let me start by saying I actually typically don’t love to read novels that feature children in such a large capacity. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE kids and I definitely think they can add much to a story, but I’m currently a mom of a toddler. And I absolutely love him more than life itself. But when I read, I want to escape my current surroundings and spend time resting, relaxing, and getting lost in a world full of someone else’s life situation.

All that being said, I can’t imagine Gwendolyn and Walter’s story without the delightful addition of Walter’s children. They bring so much life to the twists and turns this story takes, and just based on Walter’s true reasons for seeking out the matchmakers in the first place, it only makes sense that his children should be so much at the forefront of his journey to the altar.

One of the hallmarks of Jen’s novels that is part of what makes them so special is the thread of humor that she weaves all through each story, and the addition of the many scrapes her heroines always seem to find themselves in. I think Gwendolyn might be one of my favorites of all of Jen’s heroines because not only did she find herself in many such scrapes and yet still rise above them, she was so real about them. Every time something new and unexpected was thrown her way, she wasn’t afraid to be honest about how much she did not appreciate the situation. I found that to be so refreshing.

Anyways, now that I’ve rambled on far too long, it’s time I wrap this up. A Match in the Making is the perfect beginning to another wonderful new series by Jen, and I cannot wait to read the rest of the trilogy. I highly recommend this story, and everything else she has ever written, to any and every historical fiction fan. Pick up this novel as soon as you get a chance, you won’t regret it!

"Securing advantageous marriages amongst the socially elite was not for the faint of heart and, frankly, could be considered a blood sport."

Set in the Gilded Age or America, A Match in the Making follows the story of Gwendolyn Brinley, a reluctant assistant matchmaker (a position she had no intention of having) for America's most wealthy society in Newport. Gwendolyn finds herself looking for a wife for the catch of the Season, Mr. Walter Townsend, who is looking for someone to take care of his three unruly (and darling) children. However, the more time Gwendolyn and Walter spend together, the more they realize their perfect match might be right in front of them.

Oh my goodness, this book was delightful from beginning to end. I have never read a Jen Turano book, but now I feel like I need to go read everything she's ever written because she is absolutely hysterical.

I loved Gwendolyn and the entire cast of characters in Newport. They were all so fun, and some of the situations they got into were completely ridiculous, but the book was exciting and enthralling and kept me turning page after page.

Gwendolyn and Walter were well-rounded, and watching them both grow and come to understand what is truly important in life was beautiful. I especially liked the dual POV in this book, as it really helped me understand Walter and where he was coming from.

The balance of fun and ridiculousness and realistic people and experiences was probably the highlight of this book for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the escapades people got themselves into, as well as the lessons people learned from said escapades. Overall, this book was lots of fun.

Jen made me laugh out loud with the antics of her characters, and her writing made me fall in love with them as they interacted and learned and changed.

There were times where it seemed that Gwendolyn was too perfect. She always kept a level head, was always competent in anything she put her mind to (except tennis, I guess), and felt occasionally unrelatable because she never seemed to be anything less than exactly what she needed to be. I would have liked to see a few more faults in her to make her seem more real to me.

That being said, I am so glad I read this book, and I cannot wait for more in the series. I'm so hoping to see a romance about Adelaide next, as she was absolutely one of my favorite characters.

My rating: 4.5 stars—Definitely would recommend to any historical romance fan.

Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

When Gwendolyn Brinley accepts employment as a companion, she ends up in the role of assistant matchmaker. Gwendolyn keeps her family history of wealth as a secret, preferring to serve with Mrs. Parker in matchmaking and making her own way in society. However, the wealthy young ladies of Newport show their true colors in cattiness and stopping at nothing to snag a wealthy husband during the Season. Gwendolyn soon becomes quite busy as gentlemen search her out to ask for help in finding their own true loves, after she helps one such man find the courage to propose to a lady who is "persona non grata" in society and achieves visible blissful happiness!

Walter Townsend possesses the requisite wealth, but also as a widower has three incorrigible children who need a mother to take them in hand. Gwendolyn Brinley possesses beauty, confidence, and people skills. She knows how to handle his children and proves that during a disastrous day at the beach. However, will Walter realize that Gwendolyn is his perfect match? And will Gwendolyn accept him as a potential suitor, despite her independent nature?

This novel bursts with humorous situations, poking fun at the silliness and sometimes nasty exploits of the society girls as they vie for rich husbands. The story of Gwendolyn and Walter shows that love can triumph over all obstacles in the end. This was a thoroughly enjoyable novel from an accomplished and experienced author. The story maintains reader interest throughout and provides a glimpse into society details of the Newport Season.

I received this novel from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

This was such a delightful read, I can’t even express how much I loved this story. I read this all last evening and loved every fun and humorous moment. The characters are full of depth and emotion.

Get this book If you like:
Historical-RomCom
Forbidden love
Relatable characters
Enemies to lovers
Witty Banter

Jen Turano’s books have been some of my absolute favorite. They’re all filled with humor, mixed in with a little bit of chaos, intrigue, mystery, and, of course, romance. Turano is an expert at creating colorful characters and throwing them into hilarious–and oftentimes embarrassing–situations in a way that is natural, funny, and not at all cringe-y. There’s never a dull moment in her books. And A Match in the Making was no exception.

I loved the idea of a matchmaker character–although Gwendolyn did not want to be a matchmaker in the first place. However, she did take her role seriously, albeit reluctantly. And after seeing what she had to put up with throughout the Season, I did not blame her. It did give her the chance to meet and get to know a rather handsome gentleman–Mr. Walter Townsend.

I’ve read many of Jen Turano’s book, but there is something about Walter Townsend that is just…swoon-worthy. I can definitely see why he was the catch of the Season. However, he did have a bit of trouble keeping his children in line–which made Gwendolyn’s job that much harder.

Speaking of Walter’s children, I believe they were my favorite characters throughout the whole novel. Not only were they important to the plot-line, but they also added yet another level of humor and personality to the story.

To Steal a Heart is still my favorite book by Jen Turano, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this one. It was unique, funny, and light-hearted. I would highly recommend it.

I had received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest opinion.

I’ve been looking forward to A Match in the Making ever since I heard it was on the way. I wasn’t disappointed. The book is a triumph. A wonderful mix of hilarity and depth, just what fans of Turano’s would hope for.

The premise is the daughter of a wealthy family, discarded by elite society because her father married for love and married a seamstress, viewed to be beneath him. Gwendolyn’s father has made his own fortune and she has no need toward but takes a position as the paid companion of a Newport matchmaker. Despite her protests, Gwendolyn is quickly moved to perform the duties as the matchmaker’s assistant.

Walter feels the time has come to find a suitable wife for his out of control children. Since his wife’s death, he’s relied on nannies and grandparents to care for Oscar, Samuel and Priscilla. But he now sees their lack of decorum needs a mother’s influence. He doesn’t want a love match and Gwendolyn refuses to find him any other match.

Gwendolyn is highly capable, the oldest of several siblings. She leapt off the page and into my heart. Turano has written an exceptional heroine. Walter’s journey from absent father to falling in love with his children is beautiful. He became quite deserving of an exception woman.

I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley. The flat out fangirling is honest and all my own.

Highly recommended for readers of historical romance. I cannot wait for the next installment.

A Match in the Making
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From Jen Turano's first book, A Change of Fortune in 2012 to her current book A Match in the Making she has kept this reader up late reading and trying to hold in her giggles so as to not wake her sleeping husband.

Gwendolyn had no idea she would be a matchmaker for the season in Newport and Walter, our hero, needs a mother for his children. He's just looking for someone kind to care for his three minor children.

I've said before that I love when kids show up in books and I especially love when they don't act according to the "social norms" and they're just kids, and Walter's kids acted just like kids and had me laughing out loud.

This was a fun story from beginning to end; full of witty banter and crazy mishaps, that Ms. Turano is known for. I noticed the faith element popped up here and there but it was still present.

This is the beginning of Ms. Turano's Matchmakers series and book two comes out in November, so you'll want to read this one now!

Disclaimer:

I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I wasn't required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.