About this book:

“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 company of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond annoying.
Walter is reluctantly in search of a wife for his unruly motherless children. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle.
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.”


Series: Book #1 in “The Matchmakers” series.


Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are discussed in a sermon & mentioned again later; Church going & a sermon; A few talks about God; 'H's are capital when referring to God; When Gwendolyn tells Walter’s children that they need to behave in God’s house (church), the younger two misunderstand and think that lightening will strike them if they’re not (she clarifies later that that isn’t what will happen & if they are accidently naughty, then they need to be sorry and really mean it and they’ll be fine with God); Mentions of a church, church going, services, reverends, & sermons; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of hymnals & hymns; A mention of the patience of a saint;
*Note: A couple mentions of a reverend saying that a woman might be a man’s saving grace or that God brought them together.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: three forms of ‘idiot’ and three ‘on my word’; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Fighting & Pain (up to semi-detailed); Walter doesn’t know much about his children because it isn’t expected of gentlemen to take an interest in their children until they reach their majority; Mentions of a kidnapping, ransom, threats, & a child being held at gunpoint; Mentions of a near drowning & plans to act like a woman is drowning to attract the attention of a man; Mentions of injuries & blood/bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of jail & criminals; Mentions of a shark & a fish head (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & someone who drank too much; Mentions of a saloon & someone cheating at poker; Mentions of a casino, gambling, a gambler, debts, & threats; Mentions of prejudice towards the Irish & the lower-class; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of gossip, rumors, & eavesdropping; Mentions of a divorcee & society having prejudice towards her; Mentions of the possibility of the loss/death of a children’s pet (guinea pig) & it almost being killed; Mentions of children being unruly, fighting, & biting people; Mentions of pranks caused by children (including one that started a fire); Mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of an illness & death; A few mentions of a woman’s dress catching on fire; A couple mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of fibbing/lying;
*Note: Gwendolyn decided that when she reached majority (became an adult), she wouldn’t embrace the “traditional roles expected of women” like pursuing marriage (she encourages Walter’s young daughter to try anything that interests her and don’t neglect not trying something because she’s been told it’s not for girls to do), *Spoiler* Towards the end, she realizes that she does want to be a wife and mother; She has a discussion with her mother who felt the same way before falling in love with her husband *End of Spoiler*; A few mentions of books (Frankenstein & Heidi).


Sexual Content- A forehead kiss & a borderline barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kiss; Some touches & nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Staring (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses (mainly as greetings); Mentions of loveless marriages & some men just wanting a wife who they can “rub along nicely” with; Mentions of chaperones, reputations, & a young couple wanting to be alone together and steal kisses; Mentions of flirting, winks, & blushes; Mentions of jealousy; A mention of it being expected for a wife to provide her husband with an heir; A mention of a Casanova; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of a wife in passed away in labor; A couple mentions of a mother making her daughter’s dress have the illusion of her having curves to attract a man.

-Gwendolyn Brinley, age 25
-Walter Townsend, age 33
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1888
368 pages

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My personal Rating-

Another amusing start to a new Jen Turano series!

When I first heard of the plotline of this book—particularly the matchmaking element (because who doesn’t love matchmaking?)—I was instantly excited and eager to read it.

I think what was interesting in this book was that while, yes, it is a romance book and all about finding matches for others, it was super light on the emotions and romance for our main couple. Which I really like and as an added bonus because of that, could be great read for teens or even okay pre-teen readers (depending on her family’s views about reading romance books). Gwendolyn & Walter were acquaintances/friends first (though, he was instantly attracted to her, but there was no heavy noticing of the other or accidental touches) and I thought it made this novel to be a breath of fresh air because of that new friendship.

I did find it hard to keep track of all the characters in this book, so I did make use of the search feature on my Kindle copy, but I’m looking forward to Adelaide and her many cats’ story next.

Like every other book by this author, there’s humor and wit that made me laugh out loud and it was overall a really enjoyable read. I wouldn’t put it in my top three by this author—the bar is just set too high—but I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of the series as they continue.



See y’all on Monday with a new review!




*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.

This was a hilarious and enjoyable read! As most of Jen Turano's books, A Match in the Making was full of witty characters, funny moments, and some unusual circumstances. I loved Gwendolyn and Walter's relationship and how Gwendolyn is trying to find him a wife, but failing miserably because she wants him. I like how Walter developed into a better father. This book was such an enjoyable read.

Jen Turano is the queen of Inspirational historical romantic comedy and she is back with a charming, hilarious and emotional new novel that cannot fail to delight: A Match in the Making.

When Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted the position of paid companion for the summer, she had been looking forward to spending the season in Newport having a whale of a time; she never imagined that she would find herself assuming the position of reluctant assistant matchmaker! With her employer leaving her no other choice but to get to work, Gwendolyn is tasked with the daunting prospect of finding a suitable bride for the most eligible bachelor of the season – who also happens to be the most infuriating and irritating man she has ever met – Mr. Walter Townsend! What could possibly go wrong? Quite a lot as Gwendolyn soon discovers…

Walter Townsend is in desperate need of a wife. With his unruly children unable to keep a governess for long, Walter has been left with no other option but to reluctantly walk down the aisle again in order for his offspring to have the hopefully calming influence of a new mama. Walter had hoped that a matchmaker would him help find the best possible candidate for the vacant role of wife – he certainly never imagined that Miss Gwendolyn Brinley would turn this quest into a complete and utter shambles! With society ladies desperate to become the next Mrs Townsend throwing themselves at him with an alarming frequency, Walter finds himself forced to contend with their persistent scheming – and with his unexpected attraction towards Gwendolyn!

As the two find themselves spending more and more time together, Gwendolyn wonders how she is meant to find Walter a wife when she has fallen head over heels in love with him herself…

Jen Turano is at her irrepressible best with A Match in the Making! An outstanding romantic comedy that will make readers roar with laughter, A Match in the Making is a fun and feel-good historical romance with a heroine readers will adore and a hero they will be unable to stop themselves from falling in love with.

A joy to read from beginning to end, A Match in the Making is a first class romantic comedy from one of the brightest stars of inspirational historical romance: Jen Turano.

I cannot remember a book that I have read where I was laughing or giggling at every single page. Honestly - even previous Jen Turano books. This book? I laughed the whole time. I giggled, chuckled, snorted, all the laughs. In fact, I was so busy laughing that I didn't even flag any quotes, because I probably would have flagged the entire book! We all know that Turano is the Queen of laughter, especially in historical novels. But this one? Yeah it's on the top of my list.

Gwendolyn and Walter were just perfect together. And while their romance was a super slow burn, honestly that was just fine because I had a good time with the plot and all of Gwendolyn's shenanigans to even care! But oh Walter, he was just bewildered with Gwendolyn and I loved reading all of his thoughts about her. She had spunk and was certainly a woman ahead of the times. Her wit was beyond anything I've ever read, her ability to just see others as they should be seen is uncanny. And though she would hate me saying this, her motherly instincts were above par. She was such a wonderfully scripted character and I really do think I could have jumped into the book and become her best friend.

Walter though. Oh Walter. He had his own idea of what the father role should be, and how wrong he was. But his growth throughout the story was absolutely charming, and I just adored his kiddos. Sure they seemed a little unruly from the get go, but they grew on me as their true personalities came to light. And we cannot forget to mention all of the amazing secondary characters that Turano gives us - especially a special cat lady!!

But throughout the laughs and the fun, Turano also weaves a tale of forgiveness, and the importance of family, and it absolutely pulled at my heart strings. Readers will enjoy all the laughter, perhaps a few teary moments, and the joy that comes from this book. I highly recommend putting this book on your TBR!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I always love everything Jen Turano writes and A Match in the Making definitely does not disappoint!! It’s funny, witty and grabs you by the heartstrings! I absolutely loved the tennis match scene and Gwendolyn’s humor through it all! A definite must read!

Thoroughly enjoyed “A Match in the Making”, by Jen Turano. This story is set in Newport, Rhode Island in the year 1888. Assistant Matchmaker Gwendolyn Brinley is tasked with finding the perfect marriage partners for some high society members. Easy to read and enjoyable storyline.

If ever I need a good laugh, I turn to Jen Turano’s books! This delightful beginning to a new series is a must read for historical romantic comedy fans. Set during the 1880’s Newport summer season, Gwendolyn Brinley is hoping for a restful break from her demanding opera diva cousin. She agrees to be a temporary paid companion to Mrs. Parker thinking it will be a time where she can reflect on her life. Unfortunately, Mrs. Parker has other plans. She enlists Gwendolyn to become her assistant matchmaker. That’s when the craziness ensues!

Walter Townsend, a widower with three unruly young children, is the catch of the season. When a beautiful young woman spills her drink all over him and proclaims to be an assistant matchmaker, he’s determined to enlist her help in finding him a new wife. This is the last thing Gwendolyn wants to worry about. With Gwendolyn’s uncanny success, she only draws more male clients who Mrs. Parker is happy to take on when they pay her in jewels. But, will Gwendolyn be able to find the perfect match for Walter and his children or will they realize that the perfect match is right in front of them?

Gwendolyn is a kind of Yenta and Mary Poppins all in one. She sees right off the bat that Walter’s children are good kids who just need genuine love and guidance. Walter is somewhat of an absentee father who has left his children to the grandmothers to raise. The grandmothers do what they do best, spoil the children. Gwendolyn has a way with them and teaches the children how to behave properly in a loving way. She also helps Walter see the need to be involved in his children’s lives. His expectations for a wife are merely to find someone to get along with, but Gwendolyn helps him see that he should strive for so much more.

The two of them have a sort of frenemies relationship at first. Their witty bickering had me laughing out loud. I loved the way they both changed throughout the story. Some of the crazy situations they find themselves in involve a stubborn pony, a shark, and overenthusiastic/cutthroat heiresses striving to be the next Mrs. Walter Townsend. It’s one of those hilarious books you just need to read and have nothing spoiled.

Unlike some of her previous books, this is a slow build romance where the focus is on building the relationship. There’s not a lot of physical expressions of affection such as those subtle touches or innocent kisses in this book. It’s so clean I’d have no problem recommending it to older middle grade or high school readers. It was a refreshing change to see the couple really get to know one another before any romance occurred.

Highly recommend to historical romance and historical romcom fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

Gwendolyn Brinley is a companion to a lady in Newport, RI for the summer during the season. The lady has decided than instead of just being her companion for the summer, Gwendolyn will be her assistant matchmaker. Gwendolyn is not impressed with the idea but she jumps right in to help. Walter Townsend is one of the gentlemen that are prime candidates for the marriage mart. He has 3 young children to raise by himself since his wife died a few years ago and it is becoming apparent that the grandmothers and the nannies have their hands full. This is a delightful romp in the lives and intrigues of the super rich elite of that golden age. As always, Jan Turano's stories are a pure delight.

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher, via JustRead publicity tours. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Phil. 2:3-4
Spiritual Themes

Turano explores the importance of humility, as well as the foolhardiness of ambition (James 3:16), against the backdrop of high society, as women pit themselves against one another to obtain the affections (or, the 5th Avenue estate) of an eligible bachelor. Although protagonist Gwendolyn does not participate in such “shenanigans,” she does acknowledge that such behaviors are not isolated to society. Even so, I feel it is fitting that Turano used these characters to demonstrate her point, since many in these positions obtained their wealth by ignoring the needs of others.

There’s also some discussion on the importance of entering marriage for the right reasons, which ties to the above theme. Both of these ideas are included, quite clearly, via a sermon (which flows very well with the narrative and does not feel at all forced). In addition to observing the juxtaposition of pride and humility, we also get to see the fruits that each reaps, with pride resulting in dissension, and humility bringing forth grace, love and even reconciliation.

What I Liked

When I think of A Match in the Making, the word “charming” comes to mind. In the interest of disclosure, I’m not sure whether this is my own association or a word I read in someone else’s review; however, I do feel that it is a very fitting description. The narrative is delightfully sweet and light, while also conveying a good message.

Characters

Although Gwendolyn wasn’t my favorite character (she felt too familiar as an “unconvential” woman), she is a capable woman and I do respect her convictions. I liked Adelaide (and wonder if she will emerge in a subsequent book as the protagonist), and I did enjoy reading about the antics of the various female and male characters on the “marriage mart.” Plus, it was fun to read about the vacation “season” of members of high society, and step with them into their various social engagements. This element of the plot/setting definitely added to my interest level.

As a note, there are a LOT of characters to keep track of, and I often mixed up distinguishing characteristics/actions. With that said, Turano does an admirable job of sliding in references to characters’ past actions, as subtle reminders about who is who.

I was also impressed with her presentation of Walter’s children. I was disgusted by them, at the beginning of the novel, and I expected to continue disliking them, throughout. However, by the end of the story, I could see their endearing qualities, especially Oscar’s.

Language/Dialogue

Although I’m no period scholar, I felt that the author did a good job of crafting the dialogue to fit the setting. At the beginning of the novel, I felt like I could be reading something by Jane Austen. While other books may use dialogue that sounds a lot like today’s, I felt that Turano did a great job with the syntax of the speech.

Content Notes

Amidst general busyness, this book took me a bit longer to get through. With that said, I do not currently recall any content concerns.

I will state that the book conspicuously shies away from discussions of diversity, with a fairly homogeneous cast. This does make sense, considering that the novel is about rich people taking a vacation, but this could take place in a world where slavery never occurred (when the novel is set in the period after Reconstruction). I have mixed feelings about this; on one hand, the book is a decidedly light read and I recognize that it isn’t reasonable to expect every book to address systemic ills. On the other hand, it feels odd to me that all of the characters seem to be white, with no reference to diversity (even outside of their company). But then again, I’m glad that the author didn’t portray negative, racist attitudes prevalent at the time (which certainly could have come into play, given the cast of characters).

Recommendation Status

This is my first time reading a novel by Jen Turano, and I definitely enjoyed the experience. Matchmaking is such a fun topic, in general, and one that I don’t often have the opportunity to read about. (In fact, I briefly pondered whether this was an Emma retelling, for that reason. Really though, I think the main similarity is the matchmaking. ) I’m also happy that I didn’t have content concerns to report. Based on interest level, I would recommend this title to teens and adult women who enjoy historical fiction set in the Gilded Age.

There are so many reasons I enjoyed A Match in the Making. One is because I love Jen Turano’s writing style and storytelling sense. She creates lovely, memorable characters and infuses her stories with heart, faith, and humor.

I love stories that involve female leads that are a bit eccentric or unconventional, and Gwendolyn fits that role well. I also love unexpected twists in a plot, and Gwendolyn’s summer certainly doesn’t go as she expected.

Walter is a fun character. I like witnessing his progression through the story and (surprisingly) his children’s growth as well. I’m not a huge fan of children in fiction, but this story balances things so nicely!

This enemies-to-lovers story is charming, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

This was just so cute! It made me think of Jane Austen multiple times. Full of humor and warmth, I loved so much about it. If I had one tiny critique, it’s just that it felt like the characters were talking at each other quite a bit instead of having natural conversations, but I’m sure that’s the style of the period. Overall, so cute.

This a beautifully written novel from the pen of Jen Turano, who never disappoints with her humorous faith-filled novels.

I was hooked on the novel right from the first sentence to the very end of the book. The characters of Gwendolyn Brinley and Walter Townsend drew me right from the beginning to the end. Gwendolyn, a smart, strict, and confident woman who is thrust into the unexpected and challenging role of matchmaker assistant, has to navigate her way through an elite society. The twist in the latter part of the story was the icing on the cake, especially when I thought the novel was about to end.

The book, set in the gilded age, has themes of godly love and true purpose for marriage and family, which are relevant to today’s society. I like the element of the Word of God interspersed in the novel, especially in relation to the activities in the story, which caused people to demonstrate uncharitable characteristics. The message of demonstrating love and how one can set out with one purpose but find an actual God-given purpose, in the end, resonated with me.

The challenge I had was remembering the many secondary characters. I found myself asking who this character is and what was their role in the novel again? However, having read the various series of Jen Turano, the introduction of many characters is to be as expected in the first instalment of this Matchmakers series.

Overall, this novel is a delightful read. I recommend it to anyone who wants a blend of humour and a touch of faith.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

4.5 stars. This book was so thoroughly delightful I couldn’t put it down. Gwendolyn is a charming, endearing klutz; Walter is slightly clueless but no less attractive as he awakens from his stupor and reenters the land of the living. Poor Gwendolyn is trying to escape the demands of her high strung cousin and becomes a pod companion turned assistant matchmaker for the summer season. Among other things she is tasked with finding the perfect match for Walter, and she refuses to accept “adequate” or “pleasant” for him. The problem is while she’s seeking for the elusive future Mrs Walter, she rather falls in love with his 3 adorable children who are in desperate need of a strong hand. Many books with kids come off as a little ludicrous, but I loved these precocious kids and their thoughts, how they handle the plot twists and some very grown up situations. I wish a little more time had been spent exploring the possibilities between Walter & Gwendolyn (the dance was a good start, but it left me wanting more) but overall it was a marvelous Gilded Age diamond of the first water! I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and was not obligated to leave a positive review.

This book was so much fun!

Gwendolyn planned to have a "quiet" summer in Newport as a paid companion but found herself as an assistant matchmaker. Her biggest challenge was finding the right match for Walter Townsend and his unruly children.

The premise of this story was fun and entertaining. It made me laugh and it touched my heart to see Gwendolyn's character, especially dealing with those who were of lesser status.

This may be my new favorite book by Jen Turano. If you like Turano's writing you should thoroughly enjoy this one. If you're new to Turano but like American Historical Romance with a dash of comedy then check it out!

Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Oh goodness Jen Turano does a great job at keeping me entertained. Reading her books while they hubby is asleep does not bode well for him as I start laughing and chuckling out loud. This newest book is no exception. I could not help myself in some parts.

I really enjoyed Gwendolyn. She is quite the feisty character. She heads to Newport as a companion thinking she will have time to relax and ponder on what she is supposed to next with her life and instead gets roped into being a matchmaker. Because of her no-nonsense attitude and her fondness for matches to be based on love rather than mutual agreement everyone seems to want to be under her matchmaking abilities even the gentlemen.

Walter is one of those men, and boy does he need her. He is looking for a wife to take care of his rowdy children. But through the process he realizes that he doesn’t spend enough time and therefore doesn’t know them very well. I love how Gwendolyn and Walter have this odd relationship and how she gets under his skin.

Overall this book was enjoyable. While it didn’t have a huge thread faith I would definitely consider it a clean read. It had a great cast of characters and I honestly hope we see some of them in the next book. I for one cannot wait to read it. If you enjoy comedic stories in a historical fiction setting then Jen Turano’s books are for you!

I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I LOVE Turano's books....every last one of them. This is no exception. It showed a side of the matchmaking/husband hunting that I hadn't read anything about or thought about before. It was fascinating to see the lengths some of the women would go to to sabotage another woman in competition for the same man. It was funny, ridiculous and pathetic. It made me even more glad to not have to worry about "society" and all its rules and perceptions.

I loved Gwendolyn and her commitment to finding love matches for people even though she came to the whole matchmaking business reluctantly. It was fun seeing her methods and how she even incorporated children into her research.

This was a great read full of quirky characters and a wonderful premise that makes me excited for all the books to come in this series. I loved it and I would highly recommend it.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

A Match in the Making is one of those books that keeps you smiling long after you read it. Set during the Regency era,
Gwendolyn is tasked with the job of matchmaker for the lady she is a companion for. I've so enjoyed the trials and mishaps that she finds herself in as she is determined to find Walter a match.
Gwendolyn was such an interesting person to get to know. I liked her no nonsense but also kind attitude. I think she would have made a good friend. I love getting a chance to be a part of her and Walter's friendship.
Walter's children are simply adorable and full of energy I couldn't wait to see what else would happen. I believe that Walter was the character that had the most growth.
If only these characters were real!

Jen Turano writes entertaining books that have relatable characters. It's a fun escape into a world much different than ours.

I recommend this book to my family and friends

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

This was the perfect historical romance to escape into. The second I read the blurb, I knew I had to read it—and I’m so glad I did! Gwendolyn was witty and feisty and unafraid of breaking society rules. I found myself falling for side characters left and right, curious about their story, while getting lost in Walter and Gwendolyn’s slow burn romance.

A MATCH IN THE MAKING has endless banter, the cutest family dynamic, and an example of healthy, romantic love. I cannot recommend it enough!

#BookReview: A MATCH IN THE MAKING by Jen Turano

This book was so much fun. It was a delight to read this historical romantic comedy during the gilded age. Miss Gwendolyn Brinley was a perfect matchmaker. She could also talk a mile a minute, had a no nonsense attitude and had a big heart for others. I knew she was perfect for Mr. Walter Townsend from the beginning. Their conversations were witty and entertaining.

I enjoyed the children and their role in finding a wife for their father. The numerous secondary characters were a great addition to some hilarious situations. It was a compelling read with a little bit of suspense but full of love and laughter. I highly recommend this enemies-to-lovers slow burn romance. I can’t wait for Gideon’s story.

Thank you Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Rating: 4.5 stars
Series: The Matchmakers #1
Release Date: February 21, 2023

Witty, clever, and highly entertaining!

A Match in the Making highlighted the hilarity of the three-ringed circus that can accompany a wealthy, available man who is looking for a wife, especially when there is an assistant matchmaker tasked with finding him a match and who is the last woman he is supposed to fall for. I absolutely adored this book!

Read it for:
matchmaking
slow-burn romance
single father
forbidden love
enemies to lovers vibe (more like bickering acquaintances)
naughty but adorable children
fantastic side characters
hilarious scenes
laugh-out-loud dialogue
little bit of danger and suspense

This was my first Jen Turano book but I can absolutely guarantee it will not be my last. Looking forward to the next book in the series (Gideon and Adelaide, I hope!)

I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.