Jaquelyn S
Every book I have read by Jan Turano has literally made me laugh out loud. I love to laugh, and can’t think of many authors that are accomplished at consistently making that happen. The characters are delightful and completely original. I couldn’t wait to dive in. I was blessed to read the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to hear Gertrude’s story. Behind the Scenes was a blast to read, but if you haven’t read it, this book is also a great stand alone. That being said, read the first one if you have the time because it was great. Out of the Ordinary follows Gertrude and Harrison as they end up in the most random and funny situations. Gertrude has a very big heart. Her employer expects more than what your average paid companion usually does. Gertrude finds herself dressed very different than your average lady, and her hair is sometimes far from normal. But seeing the joy such things brings her employer, she is more than happy to try these supposed new trends. If only that was all her employer Mrs. Davenport required of her. Gertrude quickly learns that being employed by Mrs. Davenport also requires returning items that don’t belong to her. Mrs. Davenport has fun sneaking around and getting into things she shouldn’t. When Gertrude is caught returning something, Harrison comes to her rescue, but can he be the alibi she needs? I can not tell you to read this book enough. I loved seeing what Gertrude would get into next and how her friends would react in the circumstances. I also enjoyed picturing Harrison’s unique style and how it drove Asher crazy. I can’t wait to see what Turano comes up with next. If this is your first book by her, be prepared to be a fan for life. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading. It was set in a fun historical setting, but I believe contemporary fans would enjoy this book as well. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
1 person found this review helpful
Blue Jeans And Teacups
Christmas Came Early when this book arrived* Out of the Ordinary – Apart from the Crowd #2 June 1883 – New York Harrison Sinclair and Miss Gertrude Cadwalader were delightful supporting characters in book 1 of this series. Now, we see them front and center, beginning on a yacht party for their dear friends. Gertrude is a paid companion for Mrs. Davenport, an eccentric older lady, who has gone missing…again. Harrison is a self-made man and has no time for romance, and an unusual fashion sense that drives his best friend mad. However, Gertrude is an intriguing and different sort altogether, as well as his friend. Mystery abounds as items go missing, and Gertrude seems to land in hot water. Harrison is so kind, and determined to help clear his friend’s name. Their “friendship” catches the attention of other women hoping to snag Harrison, and trouble quickly follows. In the meantime, Mrs. Davenport has secrets of her own that keep us guessing. And she has odd ideas of fashion design she insists on testing out on poor Gertrude; including a reconstructed birdcage! TEA MOMENT: Mrs. Davenport gulped down her tea, even though doing so had her eyes watering, probably because the tea was still rather hot. Setting her cup down on the small table beside her, she picked up a shortbread cookie and stuffed the entire cookie into her mouth. That made it all but impossible for her to respond, although she made a great show of turning to look out the drawing room window as she spit some of the cookie into a napkin. –Ch. 15 Once again, I highly recommend Jen Turano’s book. She is my all-time favorite author. With a style completely unique, and the laugh-out-loud moments you cannot go wrong! I have read every book including the free novella prequels. Never disappointing. © Nov. 2017 Bethany House / 346 pages / In exchange for my honest opinion, I received a copy from Bethany House Publ. which I am privileged to provide with no other compensation. SERIES: Apart from the Crowd 0. At Your Request – Free eNovella Prequel 1. Behind the Scenes April 2017 2. Out of the Ordinary Nov. 2017 3. Caught by Surprise July 2018
Sandra Burson
Jen is one of my favorite writers. I finish a book and look to see when the next one is coming out. This time it's not until July 2018. I can't wait that long. She is an author I will read her books two or three times. I usually have a book with me at all times. It's not safe to take her along to doctor appointments or waiting to get my hair cut. The reason, I either embarrass myself laughing out loud or crying with tears running down my face. I have absolutely loved everything I have read of hers. I won't go into the story line of this book, the introduction does a great job of that. If you want an interesting, clean and exciting read, you won't go wrong with any of her books. Caution once you start one, they are hard to put down.