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About this item
Highlights
- "Turano takes readers on a lighthearted romp through matchmaking season in 1888 Newport, R.I.
- About the Author: Named one of the funniest voices in inspirational romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today bestselling author known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age.
- 368 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
- Series Name: Matchmakers
Description
About the Book
When Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a paid companion position for the Newport Season, she never imagined she'd be expected to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with finding a wife for the Season's catch, Walter Townsend, her assignment becomes increasingly difficult when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.Book Synopsis
"Turano takes readers on a lighthearted romp through matchmaking season in 1888 Newport, R.I. This is a delight."--Publishers WeeklyMiss 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 employ of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond irritating.
Walter Townsend is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children who cannot keep a governess for long. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, an amateur matchmaker who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle. Constantly besieged by society ladies on a mission to win his affection, Walter must find a way to overcome their inundating attention--and his unexpected attraction toward Gwendolyn.
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.
From the Back Cover
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 employ of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond irritating.Walter Townsend is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children who cannot keep a governess for long. What he wasn't expecting was Miss Brinley, an amateur matchmaker who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle. Constantly besieged by society ladies on a mission to win his affection, Walter must find a way to overcome their inundating attention--and his unexpected attraction toward Gwendolyn.
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.
About the Author
Named one of the funniest voices in inspirational romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today bestselling author known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publishers Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from RT Book Reviews, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. She and her family live outside of Denver, Colorado. Readers can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and at jenturano.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.43 Inches (H) x 5.51 Inches (W) x 1.1 Inches (D)
Weight: .55 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 368
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Series Title: Matchmakers
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format: Paperback
Author: Jen Turano
Language: English
Street Date: February 21, 2023
TCIN: 87169238
UPC: 9780764240201
Item Number (DPCI): 247-40-1322
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 1.1 inches length x 5.51 inches width x 8.43 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.55 pounds
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Related Categories
4.8 out of 5 stars with 12 reviews
100% would recommend
12 recommendations
Delightful
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Kimp - 2 years ago
A Match in the Making by Jen Turano is the first book in her Matchmakers series. Needing a quiet rest away from her demanding cousin, Gwendolyn Brinley accepts a summer position as a paid companion in Newport. When her employer breaks her leg she expects Gwendolyn to become her assistant matchmaker! What a delightful, entertaining story this was. Gwendolyn was such an original character; and Walter was a perfectly oblivious gentleman! The cherry on top was the three precocious children! I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for more! I received this book from Celebrate-Lit for my honest review.
So Much Fun!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 2 years ago
I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book! Jen Turano cracks me up in every book of hers I’ve read, and I’m always anxious to see what she comes up with next! A Match in the Making was a blast to read! Stories with matchmakers are always fun, but she took this one to the next level. I loved watching Gwendolyn go from being a wall flower to being the main person sought out at a ball. But it isn’t for any of the normal reasons one would expect. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance books and also likes to smile and laugh while reading a book. Turano has a gift, and I don’t say that lightly. These characters were a match made in heaven and I am anxiously awaiting the next book she writes. A Match in the Making is the first book in the Matchmakers series and if you’re anything like me you will enjoy every moment spent reading it. I was given a complimentary 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.
Pure Joy
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Lucy Reynolds - 2 years ago
Oh, my! This was just what the doctor ordered to bring pure joy to my heart. Ms Turano is an expert at taking a book beyond good to absolute hilarity while still maintaining the poignant points of the story line. I loved everything from the cover, to the humor, to the storyline, characters, and pacing. Poor Gwendolyn just wanted peace and quiet for the summer and instead she finds herself thrown into mayhem as an assistant matchmaker. Walter and his children are in for a whirlwind in the form of Gwendolyn as she tries to find them a wife and mother. This is one story you don’t want to miss as the beginning to The Matchmakers series is a must read in my opinion as you don’t want to miss the joy in your heart after reading. I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
This is the worst summer ever - Gwendolyn
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Betti - 2 years ago
Matchmaking as a profession has far more worth than I thought… Oh my gosh - this was such a fun book to read. The author has the most precious sense of humor which brought me to laughter many times as I read. The matchmaking of the elite in the 1888’s must have been a sight to behold. Gwendolyn was certainly the star of the show! You don’t want to miss this absolutely wonderful story. An early copy of this first book in The Matchmakers was received through Bethany House Publishers, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.
Matchmaking in tge Gilded Age
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Deana - 2 years ago
I love the author’s humor when she writes and this book is full of laugh out loud moments. The first book in this new series is a delightful look at matchmaking with a side of antics that heighten the story with chaos. Gwendolyn is such a fun character to follow with her no nonsense ethics and need to prove herself to her employer. I laughed when she soon discovered that she not only was going to be a companion to Mrs. Parker but also her matchmaking assistant. Poor thing has no idea what she is getting herself into as she begins her summer. I liked how Gwendolyn was not afraid to speak her mind when encountering people who try to, well let’s just say try to push themselves forward in a race to marry a certain gentleman. The women were not shy about tripping each other or spilling a drink on one of their competitors. Walter is easy to figure out as he knows that he really needs a wife to help him with his three children. During the time period the story is written, the women were to be in charge of all the children’s needs and the husband was out making money. It is evident that Walter knows very little about his children when they continue to cause havoc wherever they go. I loved his children and knew they needed someone to step in and show them love while disciplining them to understand right from wrong. Walter has an encounter with Gwendolyn that doesn’t go well but she does learn what he is looking for in a wife. Their banter is fun and entertaining as Gwendolyn is now assigned to find him the perfect match. What Gwendolyn does question is why he is not looking for a marriage of love but rather a person to take care of his children. I love the way Gwendolyn is able to make a connection with Walter’s children. They respond to her well after a few less than perfect shenanigans they try. The author shows us how important it is to give children a chance to explore their world yet be able to take direction when needed. I loved their time at the beach where Gwendolyn fishes with them and allows them to just be kids. This was such a sweet moment in the story and I could see how secure the children felt around her. There may have been a little incident as they were fishing but I will not mention it here. The story is not only a look at matchmaking but a look at the Gilded Age where society is one that people think they are better than others. The author illustrates how we should not judge people because of their place in society. We should love each other equally and unconditionally . I loved the ending and can’t wait for the next book in the series. I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
A Must Read for 2023
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
BlessednBookish - 2 years ago
A Match in the Making by Jen Turano is a witty, hilarious, and thoroughly entertaining historical romance set in the Gilded age. Gwendolyn is absolutely perfect. I was floored by her keen mind and clever way with words. I looked forward to every scene with her in it, whether it was standing toe-to-toe with society’s darlings, chiding poor behavior from children, or giving Walter a proper dressing down–I was completely enthralled. Not that Walter isn’t charming because he is fairly witty himself and capable of enduring Gwendolyn’s wrath like none other. But it was definitely Gwendolyn who stole the show and made me fall head over heels for this story. I literally couldn’t put it down and lost half a night’s sleep to make my way to the end. While Gwendolyn is supposed to be a matchmaker, her gift is really in reading the unique desires of the hearts of others and helping them realize them. Yes, she matched several young couples, but I think the work she did trying to match three young children to their absent father was the most heartwarming of all. Overall, this was a FANTASTIC book. I always enjoy Jen Turano novels, but these characters really resonated with me, and I was obsessed with their story from beginning to end. Any fans of historical romance will want to read A Match in the Making! It is easily the best book I’ve read in 2023 so far! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Witty banter
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
hannah M - 2 years ago
This is an extremely witty book. I loved the dialogue and I just kept thinking, “how is Jen Turano this genius with conversation?” The banter and the story line are the main stars and I found my self laughing at the antics. I want to hire Gwendolyn to come show me how to raise my kids 😂 Also, side question. Is historical women’s fiction a thing? Because I felt like this one had romance, but it focused more on Gwendolyn than it did on the relationship throughout the whole book. It fit this style. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything while reading it, but as I got to the end I thought about it and how the romance seemed to be a side focus that picked up steam towards the end. Loved the story, I’m looking forward to the rest in this series. The characters were a delight and gosh I loved the Gilded Age time period. It was a perfect setting. Thank you @bethanyhousefiction for the copy! It was a lovely escape from my responsibilities. 4.5 ⭐️
A fabulous and charming Historical Rom Com!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Paty Hinojosa - 2 years ago
This was another delightful Historical Romance from Jen Turano and a fabulous start of a new series! Her books never fail to charm and humor me and this one was no exception! I laughed-out-loud, I fell in love with the main characters and I swooned with their sweet romance! Miss Gwendolyn Brinley thought she was spending her summer as a paid companion to Mrs. Parker in Newport, but her plans changed as her new employer asked her to be her assistant matchmaker for the Newport’s summer Season. Starting her adventure searching for gentlemen that would suit for two high society ladies, her job turns into a real challenge when compromised to find a lady for Mr. Walter Townsend, a widow in search of a mother for his spoiled and unruly children and the number one catch of the Season. Needless to say, Gwendolyn finds the man annoying and is constantly irritated with him. While Walter finds himself admiring and attracted toward the woman who now has his future and possibly love life in her hands. But is a marriage for love truly possible, or must he content himself with an amicable relationship as before? This Historical Rom Com was seriously fantastic! I don’t know how to explain it, but Ms. Turano has a way with words and dialogues that captivate you! The plot was truly engaging and fast paced, every turn of the page bringing a smile to my lips. The characters are lovable and endearing, even if you may want to throttle them at times. My favorite part is the battle of wits between Gwendolyn and Walter. It was so fun to watch their banter and sassy comments. I literally spent the book giggling and chuckling at their antics, especially Gwendolyn. I loved her attempts at matchmaking, especially because she believed in the importance of marrying for love and not for convenience as was so common during the Gilded Era. And watching her fall for Walter, the last person in the world she would have thought of loving, was a sight to behold! And her frustration when Walter didn’t find any of the ladies she suggested suitable was so funny. There were many great and hilarious scenes, which you’ll have to read the book to find out. Other secondary characters were charming too, like Mrs. Parker or Gwendolyn’s new friend Adelaide. And I loved the slow burn yet enchanting romance! Sweet, endearing and clean. The ending was hilarious to put it mildly. And so satisfying! I can’t wait for book two now! If you love books that make you laugh-out-loud, smile, and sigh at the romance, this book is for you! I totally loved it! And I highly recommend it to anyone! Ms. Turner has done it again! Another book that becomes a keeper! I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
A funny romcom set in the Gilded Age!
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
bookstagrambyalissamorgan - 2 years ago
Full of hilarity and hijinks, this romantic comedy set in the high society of the gilded age will have you snorting with laughter like me! A Match in the Making was an enjoyable quick-paced light read that had me laughing out loud, and although it was light on the romance, it was the perfect book to entertain and delight. With a cast of quirky characters like some precocious children, meddling society matrons, and spunky debutantes, the story was bound to draw a reader in and amuse. Add in a firecracker heroine and a smitten hero and you have the makings of a wonderful historical romcom. Although the delivery was light and fun, Jen Turano delivered some powerful inspirational messages on faith, purpose, and family that had me thinking and appreciating the story long after closing the book. This was my first time reading a story by Jen Turano, and it certainly will not be my last! I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own— I really did love it!
Fun historical romcom
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 2 years ago
Another fun historical romcom from the queen of the genre! Jen Turano has a way with words to make every moment of her books engaging and delightful, oftentimes with scenes that will make you burst out laughing. I thoroughly enjoyed the hours I spent in the company of 1888 Newport high society as advantageous matches were speculated and strategized. Gwendolyn, the reluctant but highly effective assistant matchmaker, is part Mary Poppins and part Julie Andrews' Maria von Trapp and equally as captivating. Her desire and efforts to make love matches for all her clients was refreshing and fun to watch. Walter is a widower with three young children, completely unschooled and unaware in the art of courtship and love. His spunky, intelligent, and charming children are the true heroes in the story and they work tirelessly to bring their father and Gwendolyn together. With witty and hysterical dialogue, lovely characters, and a beautiful setting, this newest book from Jen Turano will win you over quite quickly. I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Fun Read
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
ChritianFictionandMore - 2 years ago
Jen Turano always provides a wonderful, lighthearted read filled with quirky characters. Her romances set among the society set during the Gilded Age are perfect vehicles for the inspirational messages they deliver. A Match in the Making will delight her fans and those who need an uplifting read to raise their spirits. Miss Gwendolyn Brinley finds herself in the unexpected and unsought position of assistant matchmaker to two of society's young, husband-seeking ladies. That being difficult enough, her employer agrees to an unconventional arrangement to sponsor one of the wife-seeking men, a widower, in his desire to provide his children with a new mother. Gwendolyn finds Mr. Walter Townsend to be particularly annoying. Let the fun begin! I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of A Match in the Making, book one in Turano's The Matchmakers series, from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Delightful
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Maureen - 2 years ago
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 individuals, 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.