Fabulous novel by Jen Turano! All the matchmaking in this story is hilarious. Gwendolyn is such a perfect combination of confidence and self awareness, and she has so much patience. She has to deal with a very eccentric employer, then some ruthless young ladies, as well as quite a few oblivious gentlemen. I love how Walter is such a likable character in spite of his lack of awareness of his children. Gwendolyn and Walter have so many fun conversations together. Gwendolyn is stubborn enough that Walter figures out what has really been missing in his family.
Also, as a mother, I love that Gwendolyn isn't some perfect, super mom figure; she simply loved the children and listened to their true needs. It is so endearing and inspiring to read how she interacts with Walter's children.

All in all, the humor was spot on as is always the case with any of Jen Turano's novels. I often laugh out loud whenever I read one of her books, and A Match in the Making did not disappoint.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.


@jenturanoauthor @BethanyHouseFiction #jenturano #gildedage #gildedgals #thematchmakersseries #romance #historicalficiton #amatchinthemaking #BHPfiction

I found it interesting reading about a matchmaker in the regency era where people were focused more on how had money or influence when choosing a mate. It provided lots of laughs especially as the male catch of the season hires the single matchmaker's assistance to help him find a wife and mother to his rambunctious children.

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

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.....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.

I cannot say enough good things about this book! The writing is incredible and the plot is just one to die for, too funny. My favorite part would have to be when Gwendolyn attempts to help Walter find a wife and the lengths the ladies will try to convince Walters they could be perfect for him, are just not crazy but comical. very Entertaining!

The Characters in this story were so fun to get to know. Gwendolyn was a no-nonsense, headstrong heroine. Walter was a swoon-worthy hero, changing from being a distant father to a father who begins to understand his children and sees the value of a love-filled marriage, the development of their relationship from enemies to lovers was sweet and beautiful, I remind you that in God's eyes, we are all equal.

"you're going to be told throughout your life that girls shouldn't do many things. It'll be out to you to decide whether that's true or not"

I recommend this to readers of all ages. If you love Historical fiction, and clean-romantic comedy, you will be happy to read this book. I am so excited to see where we go from here and to see which characters will be getting their own books.

#NetGalley #AMatchInTheMaking
Thank you, NetGalley and Bethany House Publisher for the eARC, a positive review was not required but happily given.

I’ve always been a fan of Jen Turano! She’s one I can count to write an intriguing historical romance with aspects in a story that I like.

Gwendolyn was such a refreshing character who told it how it was and didn’t care about who it offended. Side characters couldn’t help but like her once seeing the truthfulness behind her words.

Walter was an ignorant father who didn’t understand what it took to have kids nor find a wife for those kids. In the beginning, I felt like everyone acted as children. The actual children were horrendous, but even the adults and the women vying for Walter’s attention were childish in their tactics to snatch him up. Gwendolyn was the one person who acted mature, which was probably why I liked her. Although it was rough in the beginning with annoying characters, I soon warmed to the story and also the characters—well, some of them. 😆

It was a fun start to a series and I’m already banking on the next two couples for future books. 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

All Gwendolyn Brinley wanted was a normal summer as a paid companion. What she didn’t bargain for was Mrs. Parker, her employer, making Gwendolyn an assistant matchmaker. Gwendolyn does everything she can to try and get out of that arrangement, but Mrs. Parker is having none of it. Resigned to having possibly the worst summer ever, she reluctantly agrees to Mrs. Parker’s outrageous plans. From the moment Walter Townsend saw Gwendolyn he was captivated by her. The death of his first wife 5 years earlier, has him back on “the market” in search of wife that can handle his unruly 3 children. He is looking for a woman that is willing to be a mother to his children. He doesn’t believe that it needs to be a love match. When Gwendolyn announces to Walter that she is an assistant matchmaker, men flock to Mrs. Parker as potential candidates for her matchmaking services. Now Gwendolyn must find a match for the male candidates Mrs. Parker takes on! Since Walter needs a wife, and soon, Gwendolyn is determined to find him one before the Season ends. Much to Gwendolyn’s surprise, she is good at being a matchmaker and makes several good matches. She just can’t seem to find the right one for Walter. As Gwendolyn, fills Walter’s schedule with outings and other adventures with the Season’s most eligible ladies, she begins to realize that maybe the freedom and single life that she so desires may not be what her heart really wants. As the Season goes on, Gwendolyn and Walter both begin to realize that what they are both seeking may have been in front of them the whole time. When an announcement is made and Gwendolyn is immediately fired, will she ever be able to forgive Walter? When tragedy strikes, will Walter and Gwendolyn be able to work together, or will they lose each other forever? Can Walter and Gwendolyn find what they are looking for amidst all the chaos? Jen Turano is a fantastic author. Her books are full of sweet romance, unexpected hijinks, and laughter. Her characters are full of depth and emotion. Ms. Turano’s research into the history of a place or time is impeccable. Her books captivate the imagination from the very first words! This book is no exception. It had laugh out loud moments, witty repartee between the characters, and a fascinating look into the lives of high society during the Gilded Age. I received an ARC of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions within this review are my own.

I really enjoyed reading this one - it was so fun and I loved the characters! Jen Turano has written another great book!

Gwendolyn Brinley takes a break from her family and takes a paid position as a lady's companion in Newport for the summer - only circumstances aren't what she expected and she's soon leading upper crust clients and friends to love as a matchmaker. She's trying to find the perfect wife for Walter Townsend and mother for his three children, only every one she tries to match with them fails. Gwen and Walter's banter is hilarious and so sweetly entertaining.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

A Match in the Making #1 The Matchmakers by Jen Turano

1888 Newport, Rhode Island
When I pick up a book by Jen Turano, I know I am in for a fun read. A Match in the Making is certainly that. I found myself chuckling as I read and even laughing out loud at times, a dangerous situation causes tense moments, confrontations and jealousy, faith and love all make this a fun read.

My favorite characters are Gwendolyn Brinley and the adorable children--Priscilla, Samuel and Oscar--of Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season. I didn’t care for Walter at first, especially the way he spent very little time with his children. However, with Gwendolyn’s example and help he recognizes that his children are precious and he loves them dearly.

~I received an e-book copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

Jen Turano's books are always a delight to read! They are so funny, and this one is no exception. In the hands of a lesser storyteller, the eccentricities of some characters and the shenanigans of others could quickly become tiresome, but Turano does a fabulous job of making even over-the-top situations believable and humorous rather than annoying.
I'm very much a character-driven reader and I've read all of Turano's books, so it's pretty big thing when I say that Gwendolyn might very well be my favorite of ALL of her heroines. She is just my sort of person--intelligent, capable, and direct. I love how she says the things that need to be said without beating around the bush and how she so adeptly solves problem after problem and refuses to bow to society's expectations. Walter was a bit of a dolt initially (not a good parent, not believing in love, etc.), but in an endearing way, and I loved seeing him change throughout the book. Walter's children, especially Oscar, just stole my heart. I'm hoping we'll see more of secondary characters Gideon and Adelaide in the next book, especially as one another's love interests, because I really liked both of them as well.
I highly recommend this book to any fans of historical romance, rom-coms, and super fun books!
4.5 stars.

I read a copy of the book provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Jen Turano novels sweep me away into wonderful, and hilarious adventures. I can’t help but smile when I start to read a novel by this author. Her stories are a delight, and her leading ladies are unusual, and headstrong, yet tender-hearted. The leading male character, Walter Townsend, finds himself in quite a fix as news has gotten out, about his search for a mother for his children.

Employer Mrs. Parker unexpectedly decides to change Gwendolyn’s job description from paid companion to assistant matchmaker for the Newport Season. Gwendolyn knows nothing about this profession and fears things will not turn out well. She’s dined with the Prince of Wales, had the finest education, and traveled the world, but what did she know about love?

I was surprised at what Ethel says to Miss Brinley, “You’re an unconventional woman, And perhaps ahead of your time. I don’t know many women who would admit to knowing they can shear sheep…”

I enjoyed the witty, amusing, and overdramatic banter between Walter and Gwendolyn, as she sets out to find the best wife and mother for him and his children. Gwendolyn has Walter caught up in a whirlwind, with all the appointments and events she’s scheduled. He doesn’t mind because he gets to spend time with her as she makes plans. He thinks she’s a fascinating woman.

I loved Gwendolyn’s thought process in finding the perfect match. She even brings Walters’s children into the mix as she asks them what they are looking for in a new mother. This will help her narrow down suitable candidates for Walter to get to know. The children are adorable. I enjoyed the twist at the end I didn’t expect. This is a great escape and one to add to your book club list.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. 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”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

As always, this delightful story has laughter and mayhem woven throughout all it’s pages. Hidden secrets, the Elite 400, a rich widower, a novice matchmaker, & three out of control children make for a one of a kind story! If you are looking for romance, laughter, & some tennis, grab a copy today! The story has a richer faith element which I love seeing as it adds greatly to the depth of the story, taking it from simply a lighthearted laugh, to a more meaningful & relatable story. I’m not one of the Elite 400, but I can relate to the lessons learned by the members of it!

I received a copy of this book as a gift. All opinions expressed are entirely my own! I was under no obligations & received no financial compensation for this review.

This is my go to author for rom com with some fun added into the mix along the way!
I enjoyed this book so very much!
My favorite was Gwendolyn and Walter's bantering back and forth.
The children were my second favorite.
They were delightful and were the absolute delight!
Turano sure knows how to entertain her readers! She had me snickering the whole way through.
A can't put down book that will have you laughing out loud like it did me.
I loved the setting of this book too.
I didn't want to come back after this book was finished. I read it in one day it was so good!
You just never know what God has in store for you! Gwendolyn sure didn't and that was the best surprise of all!
I highly recommend! 5 stars for such an entertaining novel!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Comedic scenarios and hijinks abound in this latest from Jen Turano.

Gwendolyn was often quite funny as a reluctant matchmaker. The impact she had on people, especially Walter and his family, was astounding.

Walter started out convinced all he needed was a wife but realized in the end that his life was missing more than that. Under Gwendolyn's influence he was able to recognize where he fell short and was willing to make the changes. 

Their friendship changed both of them and allowed them to learn, ans accept, things about themselves that they had previously overlooked.

Readers will be reminded that in God's eyes, we're all equal--not separated by class or anything else.

I received an advanced reader's copy from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

As usual, Jen Turano never fails to entertain me with her books. Her quite unique sense of humor always has me laughing loudly, and thoroughly enjoying every minute of her stories. I just don’t know how she does it. But she does and does it well indeed. A huge favorite of mine.

My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion here is expressly my own.

I loved every inch of this book. The wit is spot on throughout, and the characters are interesting and three dimensional. Gwendolyn is someone I would want to befriend.

This is listed as Christian Fiction, but I would call it Inspirational. The characters attend church and even discuss a sermon, but it is about how to treat others as opposed to any real theological message. That said, the themes in the book are based in Christianity and make for a delightful read.

This is the first in a series, and I am excited for book two.

Recommended for all readers. Family friendly in every way.

With A Match in the Making, Jen Turano once again delivers another humorous romance set amidst the upper echelons of Gilded Age society. Her humor is one of the things I love most about her books, especially the wit in the dialogue.

Gwendolyn and Walter’s interactions had me chuckling from the beginning. The development of their relationship from annoyance to love was sweet and beautiful.

I also loved the secondary characters. Not only was it fun seeing Gwendolyn making matches but the characters added plenty of humor. I’m already footing for a few and hoping to see them again in future books.

My favorite secondary characters, though, were the children. Priscilla, Samuel, and Oscar not only added to the humor but also the depth of the characters. Walter’s love for them and his realization that he had been a distant father while buried in grief made him not only relatable but also easy to root for as he strived to be better. And Gwendolyn’s ability to connect with the kids and understand their needs made her a perfect match.

As for the spiritual thread, there’s a great discussion about what God views people as equals, not separated by class. I think this is a great reminder in a world often divided by social class and other differences.

Overall, A Match in the Making is a delightful romp in Gilded Age Newport perfect for historical romance and rom-com fans.

One word, Delightful! Yes, this was a fun page turning read!

We are walking with Gwendolyn Brinley, as she hobnobs with the 400 at summer in Newport. She has stumbled into an interesting job, she is now a matchmaker!

This is such a enjoyable read, yes, filled with some very snobby people, but, we also meet some sweet, kind and lovable individual, and some of those are children! Wait til you go fishing! How about a dark closet?

I have read many books by this author, and I really can't choose a favorite, but this one stands up as one of the best!

I am thrilled that there are more books to come in this Matchmaker series!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

"Matchmaker, matchmaker, Make me a match, Find me a find, Catch me a catch" Sophie Milman

When I think of Jen Turano, the first word that comes to mind is FUN! A Match in the Making was just the story I needed after a bit of a rough start to this year. Lighthearted, fast-paced, loaded with giggles and mishaps galore, I read this book in just over 24 hours. I love a good rom-com every now and then and Jen Turano always delivers. Her writing always brings a smile to my face and brightens my day. If you have never read anything by Jen Turano, I highly recommend that you do! Start anywhere! All her books can be read as stand alones are are very entertaining.

In, A Match in the Making, Gwendolyn Brinley thinks she is going to be enjoying a relaxing summer in Newport as a lady's companion, but her summer turns out to be nothing like she envisioned. Before long she finds herself as an assistant matchmarker, arranging matches for half of Newport's social set including a man she finds most irritating. I loved her no-nonsense, get straight to the point attitude, her love for Walter's children and her desire to do more than "rub along nicely" in a relationship.

Parts of the story were giving me The Sound of Music vibes (minus the war and the Nazis) and a bit of The Wedding Planner. Maybe because I just watched both of those recently. There was one part of the book that seemingly came out of nowhere, and this part of the storyline didn't seem to 'jive" to me. It sort of interrupted the flow/feel of the story... but I guess sometimes a "slap in the face" kind of moment is needed to make characters see what's right in front of them. I still thoroughly enjoyed this story, but for some reason I cannot let go of that moment.

I'm really hoping that the next book in this series is Gideon and Adelaide's story. I'm not a matchmaker, but they seem like a perfect match to me!

Choose this as your next read if you like:
romantic comedy
forbidden love
enemies to lovers
stories that will make you laugh
delightful characters

Thank you Jen Turano, Bethany House and Net Galley for the complimentary DRC of A Match in the Making. I was not required to give a positive review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME! I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! The non-stop banter of Miss Gwendolyn Brinley and pretty much anyone she comes in contact with is fantastic! She is no meek debutante to be sure.
In fact she is something entirely different.
Walter Townsend is considered the catch of the season and a rather shallow man, until Miss Brimley begins to unlock his better traits.
I devoured this book and because it was "that good" I did not slow down for my usual highlights, except a very few.
Here are a couple:
Regarding Adelaide, who I adore:
"I’m perfectly comfortable with who I am—a bluestocking at heart, who besides loving the written word has a great affection for cats.”“She has sixteen of them,”Phyllis said. “Twenty, Mother. You’re forgetting about those kittens I found at Mrs. Gerry’s picnic.”

“We’ll receive everyone in the parlor, but only after I have Gibbons leave them lingering about in the receiving room for a good ten minutes or so.”
Not only was it amusing but Gibbons is my maiden name so that was great fun for me! Thank you Jen 💞.

There are both animals and children which are always excellent additions to enhance charm and comedy. There is some light faithvas well. Set in Newport Rhode Island, during "The Summer Season" 1888

Gideon Abbott is most useful and certainly mysterious. I definitely hope he appears in the next book along with Adelaide as they seem to have an unrecognized spark. 😁

I have been part of "The Gilded Gals of Turano Street" (Jen's Street Team) since the beginning. She is a favorite author and everything she writes is fantastic!
While I am not required to write a positive review, I simply cannot help it 🤷🏻‍♀️🤭
Thank you to NetGalley, the author & publisher for an eVersion of this book. All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
Release Date: 2/21/2023
Read 12/15&16/2022
📖 Book 75 GoodReads Reading Challenge

Reviews have been or will be posted to my blog: BlueJeansAndTeacups.blogspot.com
Amzn, GoodReads, B&N, BAM, Kobo and my IG.

It took a little for me to dive in into the narrative, but as the story was riding, I was able to enjoy the journey of Gwendolyn and Walter. I did Liked the slightly "enemies to lovers" trope vibe in here, of course, it was just a soft vibe, but had printed a good dynamic to the text.

This historical rom-com was a delight from start to finish. With a vibrant cast of characters, A Match in the Making is a fantastic start to Jen Turano's The Matchmakers series.

Whenever I read a book by Jen, I wonder if she is as funny in person as she makes her leading ladies because this book is hilarious. Gwendolyn is the perfect female to infiltrate high society and bring them down a peg or two. And she does it most endearingly. While Gwendolyn tries to find a potential wife for Walter, she runs up against a pack of wild dogs (aka females on the hunt for a husband). So she sets out to train these dogs...er...females on how to find a suitable husband. The author had fun with Gwendolyn, and it shows! The dialogue, settings and vibrant sparring between Walter and Gwendolyn make this a book you can't put down.

The author also had fun with the ladies making a beeline for Walter. Each one had a quirk or fault that made them unsuitable for Walter but perfect for someone else. Turano's character development makes this a delightful book you'll want to read again and again.

While the ending was a little abrupt (an epilogue would have been great), I hope to see more of Walter and Gwendolyn in book two. If you enjoy historical romantic comedies, you will love this book!

I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House and NetGalley for my honest opinion.