What a fun, sweet romance! It's the 2nd of The Matchmakers series - I haven't read the first, and had no problem following this as a stand alone book.

The characters are incredibly fascinating, intriguing and their dialogue is entertaining. The storyline is fun and adventurous.

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

WOW! This book is PHENOMENAL! It is full of heart, intriguing, romantic, gripping, full of twists and turns (including one I thought I had figured out...I most certainly did not!), suspenseful, sweet, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "To Spark a Match", I was whisked back in time to the Gilded Age, and went on such an emotional journey with this story.

This is the second book in Jen Turano's "The Matchmakers" series, but the first I have read! I absolutely think this book can work as a stand-alone novel. There were one or two moments that I think reading the first book "A Match in the Making" may have helped me understand deeper, however, this in no way took away from this book. With this said, I so look forward to going back and reading the first book, and hope this series will continue for a long time!

Jen Turano is such an amazing author! Her writing style is visceral, vivid, detailed, and full of heart. Her characters feel like such real people, and they jump right off of the page, as does the era in which her story is set in. I felt immersed in the world of the book from the first page to the last.

(Possible Spoilers!)
OH MY GOODNESS OH MY GOODNESS! Adelaide and Gideon are absolutely PERFECT together! They truly bring out the best in one another, understand and respect each other on such a deep level, and watching them fall further in love is truly so special. I love that they fully support one another for who they are, and I hope we see them again in future books!

This book truly has so much in it: romance, mystery (I don't want to say too much because of spoilers!), adorable animals, a bookshop, and much, much more.

Also, I absolutely adore Leopold and Vernon, as well as the animal characters throughout this book! The cuteness of Moe and Harvey too MY GOSH!

If you enjoy Historical Romance and / or Historical Mystery, I highly recommend this book! I so look forward to reading what Jen Turano writes next!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Austenprose PR, and Bethany House Publishers for the e-ARC of this book, and to Austenprose PR and Bethany House Publishers for the beautiful finished copy as well, and for having me on the book tour! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

To Spark A Match is book two in the Matchmakers series that is written by Jen Turano. This story can be read as a stand alone. This author is a master at her craft. She transports readers back in history. Her careful research and fun historical details make her stories so fascinating to read.

In this story we’re in 1888. Adelaide has been unsuccessful in finding a mate. She’s not that disappointed in this. She much prefers cats and books. She’s got a habit of leaving her mark in dinner parties. She frequently becomes the topic of conversation in social circles.

Enter Gideon. Adelaide finds him in a secret activity and she helps to bail him out. He finds himself in Adelaide’s debt. To try and repay her he enlists the help of a socialite, Camilla to try and make her more fashionable. Adelaide finds herself thrust into a world that she’s only read about in spy novels.

In true Turano fashion our main character is witty, humorous and doesn’t fit in the society’s norm. I loved that this story had so much packed into it. We’ve got spies, gangsters, books, cats and mystery. The characters have great chemistry. I absolutely love this series.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

A fabulous second book in the series! Adelaide and Gideon's unique relationship was fun , while the charming side characters added to the enjoyment. The emphasis on books and the bookstore is a delightful touch, making it a must-read for book lovers

Jen Turano is the queen of inspirational historical romantic comedy and she has come up trumps yet again with her latest novel, To Spark a Match.

Miss Adelaide Duveen has decided to face facts. After five unsuccessful Seasons on the marriage mart, it looks like spinsterhood beckons for her. Although she isn’t exactly overjoyed about the prospect, being unmarried will provide Adelaide with the opportunity to dedicate all of her time to her beloved cats and her books. A voracious reader of spy novels, Adelaide thinks that reading will be the only thing in her life that will provide her with some adventure and intrigue – until she inadvertently stumbles upon Mr Gideon Abbot and is thrust into a world of intrigue, danger…and romance.

Former intelligence agent Gideon feels responsible for Adelaide after her quick-thinking saved his mission from being jeopardized – but resulted in her being shunned by society. Keen to return the favor, Gideon decides to help Adelaide out by turning this unfashionable spinster into one of society’s leading lights. Finally given the time to shine, Adelaide begins to thrive away from the shadows, but when she and Gideon find themselves the target of vengeful criminals, they realize that they will need to work together and trust in one another or else risk losing everything they hold dear to their hearts.

As their feelings for one another escalate, will Gideon and Adelaide manage to have a future together? Or will a dangerous enemy put paid to any hope they had of a lifetime of happiness?

I adore Jen Turano’s books and with To Spark a Match she has once again written a fantastic historical romance that has winner written all over it. Witty, emotional, dramatic and wonderfully romantic, To Spark a Match is a delightful historical tale that sparkles with humor, intrigue, suspense and plenty of charm.

Jen Turano is a fantastic storyteller who pens dreamy, entertaining and engaging stories readers will simply adore and she has another surefire hit on her hands with her latest novel, To Spark a Match.

“I believe my propensity for mishaps, my love of books, my lack of proficiency with most feminine arts, my enormous collection of cats, and my questionable fashion sense already sets me worlds apart from the crowd – and not in a favorable manner.”

From the opening scene I knew Adelaide was going to be a character that I would adore. She didn’t disappoint!

She’s definitely prone to mishaps, but her mind is very sharp and observant, whether it’s helping to solve a mystery or realizing there’s more important things in life than embracing the status quo.

I loved how so many people saw Adelaide as being peculiar, except for Gideon. He thinks she shouldn’t attempt to change who she really is at heart, because in his eyes, she is perfect exactly the way she is. And she truly is!

I loved this story! It’s warm, funny, and full of heart. The blend of humor, mystery and intrigue, and romance was wonderfully executed. The faith element was nice, the writing was excellent, the pacing was great, and the character development was outstanding.

Thanks to Bethany House Fiction and NetGalley for a digital review copy In exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

“It wouldn’t be a normal evening for me if some manner of chaos didn’t occur.”

This quote pretty much sums up Adelaide’s life, as she tends to wreak havoc in her life with great regularity. Adelaide is definitely a unique and endearing character, and Gideon is a wonderful hero who helps Adelaide out of some of her most dangerous and crazy shenanigans. I loved the relationship and witty banter between these two main characters. Author Jen Turano is one of my favorite historical romance fiction writers, and one of the reasons is the witty humor and fun she pours into her stories. Another reason is the humorous way she pokes a little fun at high society in the Gilded Age.

As Adelaide’s friend Camilla and Gideon try to restore Adelaide’s reputation and standing in society, will they change her into someone she’s not meant to be? Adelaide isn’t sure she wants to change if it means she loses her compassion and concern for those less fortunate and less socially accepted.

“I’m relatively convinced one shouldn’t ignore God’s intentions or deviate from them simply to embrace the status quo.”

With plenty of chaos, action, a touch of mystery, and a good amount of sparks, To Spark a Match is a fun and humorous romp into Gilded Age society. Although it’s the second book in The Matchmakers series, it can easily be read alone. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to those who enjoy amusing and entertaining historical romance fiction. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.

#BookReview: TO SPARK A MATCH by Jen Turano

Miss Adelaide Duveen, a quirky character from A Match in the Making, gets her own story that showcases her adventurous and loving spirit. This standalone novel also revisits characters from the first book.

The author's writing has always appealed to me, but something about this book made it a real page-turner. It's a romantic comedy with a dash of intrigue and danger. Adelaide's beloved Bleecker Street bookshop is a special place, but it also comes with its share of excitement and funny banter.

Gideon and Adelaide had so much chemistry. Their witty banter and lingering looks were impossible to miss. At first, they were oblivious to their own feelings, but everyone around them could see it. Adelaide was persuasive and relentless when she wanted something, and Gideon seemed powerless to resist her. I enjoyed both characters, as well as the supporting cast, especially Leopold and Vernon. The book's subtle faith messages were also appreciated. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

Rating: 5 stars
Series: The Matchmakers Book 2
Pub date: 14 Nov 2023

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

While other debutants of New York City’s Four Hundred enjoy a Season's glitz, glitter, and glamour, Miss Adelaide Duveen would rather read her precious books and find homes for her darling cats. Adelaide’s mother has schemed for five years to find a suitor for her daughter, but no one seems to suit her.

Adelaide good-naturedly suffers through her mother’s machinations to find her the perfect match. But the oversized bustles, ample padding, and odd-shaped dresses just turn Adelaide into an oddity. The ill-fitting wardrobe creates more havoc than admiration.

When Adelaide’s quick thinking saves Mr. Gideon Abbott from revealing his true occupation, society decides to give Adelaide the cut direct. Gideon wants to pay Adelaide back for her kindness, so he enlists his friend, Camilla Pierpont, to turn Adelaide into the darling of society.

Adelaide reluctantly agrees although she has little hope of turning into society’s darling. Because of her fondness for spy novels, she won’t turn down an opportunity to learn about Gideon’s unusual occupation, though.

For the first time in his life, Gideon Abbott finds himself willing to share details about his profession with the unusual Miss Adelaide Duveen. Something about her zest for life and her charming dimple makes it difficult for Gideon to deny one of her requests. While his friend Camilla revamps Adelaide’s wardrobe, Gideon finds himself teaching her how to shoot.

It’s too bad his dangerous occupation prevents him from forming permanent romantic attachments. Adelaide seems perfect in every way. Gideon realizes two things too late. His heart has a will of its own, and even the most cautious man can’t keep Adelaide out of trouble.

What I Loved About This Book

Turano’s storytelling sparkles with wit and humor. Readers will fall in love with Adelaide, an avowed spinster with a zest for life and a questionable talent for turning the ordinary into a mishap. The second in The Matchmakers series, readers can enjoy To Spark a Match as a standalone novel.

Romcom fans and readers who love historical inspirational fiction will enjoy this book.

Another super fun historical romance from Jen Turano! This is book 2 in the Matchmakers series. Though this story stands alone, the main characters in this novel do show up in book 1, so you can get a fuller picture of their history perhaps by reading the first book, but it's definitely not essential to the enjoyment of this book. This book follows Adelaide Duveen, who seems to find herself in absurdly chaotic situations, which has her somewhat shunned from the rest of society. When Gideon Abbott finds himself in Adelaide's debt, he requests a favor of socialite Camilla Pierpont to make Adelaide "fashionable" for the upcoming season. The hijinks that ensue are quite hysterical, as any fan of the author's would come to expect.

In addition to the hilarity, this book had an excellent plot-line with a mystery, some bad guys, an anti-hero, and of course a romance. The character development in this one was stellar and the characters themselves were ones you could easily be friends with, even if they were high society. The faith thread in this one was subtle, but present as Adelaide felt convicted to be better than "just fashionable" and believed that God had created her for more. All in all, this was a delightful read and one I thoroughly enjoyed especially since it followed a heavier read before it. I can always count on this author to give me a wonderful novel with a lot of great laugh-out-loud moments. Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Jen Turano writes such cute witty books. I’ve done several of hers from other series and was excited to get to do one from a new series for me.

Adelaide is not quite what the high society had in mind with their pick of ladies. She always seems to find trouble and be right in the middle of it. She doesn’t have all the “qualities” of a lady, but she also doesn’t care. After helping get the handsome Gideon out of quite a pickle by subjecting herself to yet another scene of ridicule, he determines to help her get back in the good graces of the Four Hundred.
This cute book will take you on their journey of solving a mystery (one he is determined she won’t help with and she is adamant she will 😂) and finding love.
I enjoy a historical read based in the early New York days, and seeing their twists off the London society.
Overall, an easy clean read with plenty of wit and finding love. Thank you to @bethanyhousefiction for the arc. All opinions are my own.

4.75 Stars

Adelaide is such a fun character. She is always finding herself in some sort of crazy situation. Gideon always seems to see her in such a situation. Adelaide discovers that Gideon is doing some undercover work, and she wants to help. Gideon doesn't want her involved but unfortunately, she unintentionally becomes involved, and Gideon must keep her safe from the criminals. I really love this author's sense of humor; she is so funny and makes for hilarious characters. Adelaide and Gideon work great together and I love how they tease each other and are so blunt with one another. I love Adelaide wanting to give cats to everyone. This book is full of laughter, romance and danger. Overall, a great read and I definitely recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

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

I will NOT be posting this review anywhere else either. I'm so glad to see a few others who didn't like this book either.
I usually love Turano's books, but not this one. For some reason this one didn't work.for me.
The writing seems too over the top with big, unessecary words. One of the conversations I thought was silly was about wigs. I felt like I was listening in on this one and found myself smh too much.
I gave this one 3 stars for reasons stated above.
I did love that Adelaide got her own story, and I did love her big heart for cats.
I also liked some of the scenery that was described in this novel but that's it
I apologize for not liking the book. I will highly recommend it to everyone else that would enjoy it.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review..all opinions expressed are my own.

Jen Turano is the queen of historical humor and romance! To Spark A Match was everything I have come to know and love about a Jen Turano novel. Quirky characters, hysterical antics, and romance that is fun and flirty! I love this author for her light and fun romance with a hint of mystery! I was absolutely never bored in this novel and it was complete entertaining! If you are looking for a fun romance with humor and heart, this one will not disappoint!

"I don't go looking for trouble. It simply finds me."

We met Adelaide in book 1 and I knew she was a keeper from the minute she was introduced. Constantly getting into hilarious, awkward and sometimes (okay, almost always) dangerous situations she is the character you want to read about when you need some fun and entertainment in your life!

Gideon is exactly what you want in your male main character! He's rugged, tough and a big teddy bear on the inside...especially when it comes to Adelaide...whether he wants to admit it or not!

"I've clearly taken leave of my senses," -Gideon.

Oh these two are SO, SO good together! I loved having Camilla working her magic.

This book is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, hilarious encounters, slow burn romance, bookish characters, cats and a dash of mystery! I highly recommend it, friends!

Word just dropped that Camilla's romance will be book 3 and I am counting down the days until I have that book in my hands!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Content: slow burn romance, cats galore, fickle society, matchmaking, mild suspense, violence and mystery, and kisses only.

I loved Adelaide! She’s quirky, clumsy and bookish! Jen Turano writes wonderful characters that are funny and relatable.
The only criticism would be that the ending got a bit long. But, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves rom coms and quick witty books.

Jen Turano pens another great novel! Not only is it full of quirky humor, but there is some intrigue that leads to interesting events.

The characters are fabulous! I love Adelaide! She's quirky, walks to her own beat, and is inquisitive! Even though she suffers through a series of mishaps, she keeps putting herself out in society. Gideon is swoon worthy! He's a protector, humble and courageous! The secondary characters are written just as brilliantly! Leopold and Vernon are my favorites! They are always ready for action!

I like the theme of staying true to yourself. Adelaide never faltered from her dreams and goals. She is tenacious but in a good way!

All in all, a definite must-read! I look forward to reading more of this series!

I was provided a copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Jen Turano’s second installment in the Matchmaker Series follows her trademark style of hilarious encounters along with unconventional responses for the historical time period. Her books are always a fun read with lots of small surprises that add up to a great, unputdownable story.

In this story, Adelaide plans to be a spinster who enjoys cats and books, but is thwarted when she stumbles upon Gideon’s botched meeting at a dinner party. She isn’t nervous about a thug in her vicinity, and instead has lots of questions and advice for Gideon. Unfortunately, Gideon also has advice and thoughts for Adelaide–involving her style and status in society.

Being a reader, and privy to both their thoughts on each other and their situations, is quite fun and engaging.The story progresses and keeps the reader entertained by Adelaide’s antics and her ability to be charming despite the chaos she causes. Gideon deserves an award for his patience as well as for his best attempts to keep Adelaide focused on fashion instead of crime. There’s a few secondary characters, two of which hopefully will get their own story, who shine as an excellent supporting cast.

Readers of Jen Turano will adore this latest addition to her Matchmaker Series!





(Received a copy from the publisher. This is my honest review)

This is a great addition to Jen Turano's matchmaking series! I was so excited to see that Adelaide was getting her own book and even more excited to find out how her relationship with Gideon would develop. They balanced each other out so well. The pacing was great and the suspenseful plot kept me hooked until the end!

To Spark a Match by Jen Turano was a delightful read. Her books are always a joy to read and this one was not exception. She creates moments that are hilarious and heartwarming.
This is the second book in the Matchmaker series and is set in New York during the Gilded Age. Adelaide is seen as unusual to most of society.
Gideon has asked his friend, The Matchmaker to help her. She decides to create Adelaide as an ‘original’. They were such a cute couple together.
I highly recommend Jen’s books as they are refreshing and are a great escape from a dreary winter day.