3/5 ⭐️


It's a good story, but its not a book for me and that's okay not every book can be a good match.
This is a historical romance, witty characters and without spice.

Adelaide Duveen is swept into a world of intrigue and suspense after stumbling upon a mysterious meeting during a society party. After five failed seasons, Adelaide believes that she is well on her way to being a spinster, but could a chance encounter change everything?

A fun read with a fantastic heroine, in a fast paced, banter-filled adventure. Adelaide has a quick mind, and is willing to do what it takes to help Gideon's mission succeed. Gideon is attracted to Adelaide, and I liked that he was trying to protect her from the things in his life that could be a danger. Adelaide has a wonderful set of friends, and I loved seeing familiar faces along the way.

Overall, an engaging read with an excellent plot, many laugh out loud moments, and over the top characters. Highly entertaining in the best way!


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

Jen Turano's books are always such fun...full of hijinks and mayhem as her heroines go about their daily lives. Gideon is so supportive of Adelaide, and I really enjoyed their romance. Loved all her kitties as well!

I also listened to the audio book and found it quite engaging.

Meeting Her Match (book 3 in the Matchmakers series) is Camilla's story, and I can't wait for it!

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

Publication date: 14 November 2023

I greatly enjoyed this book! I really enjoy Ms. Turano's work, and this was no exception!

Adelaide and Gideon were wonderful characters! The character development was deep and really incredibly thought out. I loved Adelaide's personality, and how she really did not put a lot of stock in what society thought of her. Her mother was great in that she really seemed to care deeply about Adelaide. However, she was also determined that Adelaide get married and be accepted in society. However, Adelaide's antics to protect others around her were very humorous and really made for a great story. Gideon was determined to help Adelaide because she was clearly willing to go out on an incredible limb to "save" him!

This story was just a great deal of fun to experience. I definitely recommend it! Thank you, Bethany house and NetGalley, for giving me this opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. It's a great privilege.

Author Jen Turano can always be counted on for a fun, entertaining read with perfectly delightful eccentric characters, and this book was no exception. I loved every minute of it and was enchanted by the bookstore setting! This book was so much fun to read! Turano just keeps getting better and better!

I absolutely adored this book! Jen Turano, once again, has written a book full of wonderful character and witty banter.
Adellaide has been through the marriage mart multiple times and let's just say she's well known for not the best of reasons. She seems to have a habit of finding herself in not so advantageous to improving her social status standings. Even if she is a Knickerbocker. And truthfully, she is okay with that, much preferring her books and cats to people.
Gideon is one of the Four Hundred. A gentleman of leisure. Or is he? Gideon's life is not what it seems. He is so much more.
Gideon and Adellaide find themselves, against Gideon's best intentions, working together to provide Gideon a way of escape. Yep, not saying more than that. You need to read the book to find out the details. All I will say is that the lengths Adellaide goes to ensure his escape all but ostracize her from society. This he can't abide so enlists his best friend to make Adellaide accepted into society. And the rest, as they say, is history!
There is a mystery aspect to this story that will keep you wondering what is going on. I immediately fell in love with Adellaide and her unusual ways. And Gideon, well, he's a keeper for sure! I know I would have laughed out loud at some of their banter if I had been with them. I laughed out loud reading it!
I definitely recommend this wonderful story!

Fun historical romp!
A retired matchmaker, an impossible challenge, an undercover detective, embroidered unmentionables and cats - many cats. What more could you ask for?
Despite the inclusion of embroidered unmentionables, note that this is a clean, historical rom-com type whodunit. There is no explicit content - just an elderly lady fond of embroidering lucky unmentionables for people.
Relaunching a new-and-improved (socially acceptable) Ms. Adelaide Duveen is just the impossible challenge retired matchmaker Camilla needs. The challenge gets harder as the story goes and the list of Adelaide's foibles continues to grow. The cats? No the cats cannot go. Society will just have to learn that cats are "in".
Watching Adelaide come into her own and Camilla and Gideon growing in their support made for a great heart-warming story.
All in all, a great read. The romantic content was consistent with what I expect from Christian fiction - some chaste kisses with no in-depth descriptions, mention of butterflies and tingling, racing heart, but certainly nothing explicit. The faith content was sadly a little lacking. There are some mentions about characters attending church, and about wondering what God's plan for them is, but as far as their faith growing or dynamically impacting the story, that was absent. I do enjoy books like this, I have just come to expect a little more faith content from books that are specifically Christian fiction. I would love to see more about Camilla, Charles, Leopold and Vernon as well as more adventures for Gideon and Adelaide.

To Spark a Match, by Jen Turano, is the second book in The Matchmakers series. This delightful historical romance reads very well as a stand-alone novel. Exceedingly clever and utterly entertaining, it is well-written and very endearing. Filled with charismatic characters, plenty of surprises, and oodles of sweet romance, this novel is wonderfully compelling.

Sparkling dialogue compliments an engaging plot that makes this novel utterly captivating. As an author, Ms. Turano excels at placing her characters in unexpected and truly humorous situations. These situations require the characters to act in unconventional ways fostering a storyline that is unexpected and very interesting. The characters are certainly likable, and their unique attributes are inspiring. As they endure an array of challenges, they become quite memorable and inspiring.

To Spark a Match is a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Scenes of comedy, intrigue, and romance make this book very appealing. Page after page, this novel offers a thoughtful story of compassion, purpose, and inclusion. It is an uplifting and special story, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher/author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

I love the witty repartee and story of this delightful romantic comedy set in New York’s High Society, where a “spinster” gets involved with mysterious Gideon Abbott. I love this series and look forward to reading all of this author’s books! I received an ARC from NetGalley but this review is my own opinion. I also bought an Audible version and love the narrator!

I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was very excited to get this book. The main character, Adelaide, appeared in the first book, and I wanted to know more about her character. Her love of cats told me I would instantly like her, and I did! My main complaint about this book was the characters from the first book never made an appearance. Adelaide and Gwendolyn had such a wonderful friendship in the first book, and I missed that. Other than that, it was a great read.

A darling read with quirky characters with whom you can’t help but feel a spark. If you love period, accurate historicals, this may not be your cup of tea. However, if you love historical fiction that gives you edgy characters, such as a wallflower and collector of cats turned to amateur sleuth you will definitely enjoy this story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!

This is book two in the Matchmaker Series, yet is is a stand alone book. I always love the writing style of Jen Turano. Her books are always full of sparks, spunk, humor, romance and so much more. Adelaide seams to always find herself in some crazy circumstances, when she would really just love to spend time with her cats and her books. When she finds the handsome Gideon Abbott in a rather awkward place, she decides she must help him. Gideon and Adelaide are not meeting for the first time, in fact he has helped her a few times in the past. Yet when she helps him things really take a turn. I love the friendship that Adelaide and Gideon share, their relationship and adventures (even if not intentional) are so amusing. You will find yourself smiling, and even laughing while reading this book, I love this book and look forward to reading more from this series. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.

I have expressed my admiration for Jen Turano's books previously, and I will reiterate that sentiment, I absolutely adore Jen Turano's books. Every story she tells is entertaining and unforgettable due to her wit and humor.

Adelaide Duveen, a young woman who has remained a spinster for five seasons, and Gideon Abbott, a former intelligence officer, are the main characters of the novel.

Unlike her New York colleagues, Adelaide is an avid reader, which is what drew me to her. Her status is persona non grata, to put it briefly.

Some of the minor characters were just the right foils for the story.

The book, set during the Golden Age, is replete with mystery and intrigue. In addition, Turano also included a faith element in the narrative, which I appreciate.

I received a review copy of this book from Bethany House and NetGalley. All opinions are my own, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

This was a really fun read!

Yet again, I discovered after the fact it's Book 2 in a series; I did wonder at times, with passing references that seemed to indicate "there's an existing story here," but it still stood well on its own and I didn't feel (very :D) lost, lol. I'm excited to read Book 1 and fill in the gaps!

Fans of the movie _What a Girl Wants_ and British period pieces (book or movie) will enjoy this historical look at the deb world (I can't say "deb" without thinking of Oliver James doing the same in his delicious British accent in aforementioned movie, lol: "My mother was a deb") and all that goes with it. I loved the splash of intrigue and am super excited to dive into it more--glad there's more material readily available in Book 1!

Turano's sense of humor comes out loud and clear in this read, too, which is fantastic. It made me literally LOL at times!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Really enjoyable book! Jen never disappoints.
This is the second book in The Matchmakers series, but it easily stands alone. If you're looking for humor, romance, mystery, adventure, and just plain fun, then you've come to the right place.

Miss Adelaide Duveen has been unsuccessful finding a match due to various circumstances that just keep "happening" to her. She's come to terms with the fact that she will likely remain a spinster, and that suits her just fine thank you very much. She can tuck herself away in the library with her book during society events. Yet when doing just that thing, she comes across Mr. Gideon Abbott, who Adelaide is sure is up to some shady things. He tries to rush her out of the library, but this sets into motion many things that bring Gideon and Adelaide together again and again. Sparks fly between them, but these dangerous situations are no place for a lady...or are they?

Very rarely do romance novels cause me to laugh out loud, but this one certainly did. There are always animals involved with the hijinks in Turano's books, and this novel is no exception. The banter is on point and the romance develops naturally. I adored the interplay between the characters, and the addition of the mystery and intrigue just made it all the more engaging.

I listened to this book as an audiobook and the narrator is superb. She kept the banter flowing and made me totally invested in the story. If you're looking for a historical romance with humor, suspense, and a lot of heart, then look no further than Jen Turano's books.

I enjoyed this book a lot. It's always fun to visit the Regency era especially if it's a Jen Turano book. To Spark a Match is a delightful blend of romance, comedy and mystery. I feel like i'm right there along with the characters. I enjoyed that there was more to the story then just two people meeting or trying to find the richest match. The mystery surrounding the bookstore added depth to the story. I loved trying to solve the mystery right along with Adelaide and Gideon.

The banter between Adelaide and Gideon made me smile. I loved the easy camaraderie but spine tingling that happened whenever they were together. They feel like real people to me and someone I'd want to be friends with.

I love that I can read or listen to this story around my kids and not worry about any adult themes. I've listened to some of this story as I took my kids to school. My son got so caught up in the story, he didn't want me to stop the audiobook.

I'm looking forward to reading more books by Jen Turano. I highly 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.

Let me start by saying that Adelaide is a girl after my own heart with her love for cats and books. And when there is a mention of her possibly having essentially a place just for cats, well I was a smitten kitten. But it's also her predicaments that I can relate to. Having a bustle caught so your undergarments are exposed? Yeah, I've been there (but for the record it was a skirt not a bustle lol). Might she be one of my favorite Jen Turano heroines? I mean they are all my favorite, but she Adelaide is for sure near the top.

And Gideon? Yeah, swoony hero at it's finest right here. He has such a big heart, namely of course for Adelaide, and I just adored reading about him. Their moments were sweet, funny, swoony, and everything in between. In true Turano fashion, the banter was great, the laughter was plentiful, and the smiles were never ending. Historical Romance fans will devour Turano's latest.

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

Jen Turano’s To Spark a Match is a delightful story in which neither want to marry but find themselves drawn together all the same. The troubles they each and both find offer wonderful ways for them to get to know each other. It took some time to read as the majority of the book was dialogue, little time was spent in the characters’ heads.

To Spark a Match by Jen Turano is the second book in The Matchmakers series and a definite must read if you love inspirational historical romances with a little suspense.
Miss Adelaide Duveen has resigned herself to being a spinster after five unsuccessful Seasons until she stumbles upon Mr. Gideon Abbott engaged in a covert situation during a dinner party.
Whereas Adelaide is more than interested in Gideon's activities, Gideon feels responsible for her and asks a friend to help make her fashionable as far as society is concerned. Their acquaintance soon becomes more and puts them both in danger not only in love, but their lives as well.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more books in this series.

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

Once again I was delighted with the author’s ability to write a story that delivers funny moments and a bit of faith. It is easy to laugh along with Adelaide as she ponders her place in society. She is just fine reading books and lavishing on her adorable cats. Her embarrassing moment at the beginning of the book sets the stage for an adventure I won’t soon forget. Why does someone dear to her think she needs to wear a wig to get gentlemen’s attention? Well she will have nothing to do with that silly notion. Reading books is where she was most comfortable doing. Trying to get a husband is not something she is focused on.

Gideon sure knows how to surprise someone. Adelaide is trying to find a place to hide from the dinner party and decides the library is the perfect place. Who does she run into? Well it is Gideon hiding behind the curtains. Now why is he hiding and what is he up to? He is not really ready to explain himself as he tries different methods of distractions to get Adelaide out of the library, but I think she sees right through his ploy. What is discovered behind the couch that has both of them nervous?

The two team up which puts Adelaide in a position where society turns against her and banishes her. Gideon feels responsible and wants to help her return to society as a woman men would fight over to get her attention. I did laugh as Adelaide wants to help Gideon in his secret mission. She even tell him that she “will pinky swear” not to tell anyone what is going on. The mystery is fun to follow and there are several other characters who add to the story.

With a makeover, mystery, secrets, guns and a spark of romance this is a delightful story from an author who always delivers an entertaining adventure. I loved feeling as if I was part of the story and loved the ending. Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this new book by an author gifted in storytelling.

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