Miss Temperance Flowerdew is on her way to work when a stranger suddenly grabs her off the street and sends her on a Chicago-bound train before she can figure out what happened.When Mr. Gilbert Cavendish is called upon to rescue a missing woman, he follows the trail to Chicago only to discover that the woman is his good friend Temperance. Before they can discover who was behind the abduction, … abduction, they’re seen alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk.
Gilbert is willing to propose marriage–except Temperance will have none of it. She’s finally stepped out of the shadow of her relations and won’t give up her independence. But when it becomes clear the misunderstanding in Chicago has escalated into a threat on her life and followed her to New York, accepting Gilbert’s help in solving the mystery may lead to more than she ever could have dreamed.
more
Oh! I believe this might be my absolute favorite of the series! So many laughable and delightful moments, and all stories in the series tied up with a neat bow. A couple of surprises, a horrid cousin and a couple of the criminal set redeemed, and all the charm three elder ladies who don’t care in the least what anyone thinks. A wonderful read!
CAUGHT BY SURPRISE is book three in the Apart from the Crowd series by Jen Turano. Jen has outdone herself again. She has written another book that will have you in stitches. I love the laughter, determination, suspense and much more. Miss Temperance Flowerdew is a hoot. So uniquely herself doesn’t give a hoot what others think. I loved her so. Mr. Gilbert Cavendish like a knight and shining armor. A wonderful cast of characters that will have you wanting more and more. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. Be sure to grab your glass of sweet tea and kick back with this most delightful book. Be sure to get your copy of CAUGHT BY SURPRISE today. It would also make a great gift.
An utterly charming and delightful book!
I’m in love with another Jen Turano book! I just can’t help it! Each book seems to get better and better! And it only takes one glance at the front to see why it is my favorite cover from all of the lovely ones from this series and earlier ones.
Caught By Surprise is a completely delightful blend of romance, comedy, history, and suspense. I have to confess that it took me a little bit to warm up to Mr. Gilbert Cavendish, he is SUCH a stuffed shirt! However, I loved the surprising and whimsical Miss Temperance Flowerdew from the start.
With a cast of characters who are charming, quirky, villainous, and NEVER what you expect, Jen Turano’s conclusion to her irresistible Apart From The Crowd series is sure to enchant any reader. Caught By Surprise more than lives up to its title, featuring many laugh-out-loud moments, and even a few poignant ones, quite a few surprises all around, and a perfectly wonderful Happy ending…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Jen Turano always has delightful books, and this was no different. It was funny and sad all at the same time. Temperance has been grieving her parents’ death but finally decides she needs to be her true self again when she reconnects with her childhood friend Gilbert. I loved their interactions with one another. Gilbert approaches things analytically, including romance, considering it a business transaction. But Temperance is a bit more romantic, and I loved watching Gilbert try to connect with his romantic side.
One of the things I have enjoyed most about Caught by Surprise is the fact that Temperance and Gilbert have been friends since childhood. Sharing a mutual respect and admiration for one another that is evident in their words and actions, their genuine love for each other was deeply felt by this reader and it stirred my emotions time and again. The quips exchanged between the two brought forth more than one audible chuckle, and perhaps an actual guffaw or two. 😉
Turano has a natural ability when it comes to pacing a story. It is always expeditiously done with plenty of humor, thoughtfulness, laughter, quirky scenes, and much grace. I highly recommend Caught by Surprise, the final book in the Apart from the Crowd series. It is lighthearted entertainment yet inspirational, full of sound truths delivered in a gentle and whimsical manner. I do recommend reading the series from the beginning so you get the full flavor of the characters. You will fall in love with ALL of them and be asking for more.
I received a paperback copy from the publisher. No review required. No compensation received.
Caught by Surprise is a wildly appealing story of love and laughter for ladies everywhere. The longtime friendship between our hero and heroine is a solid foundation for robust banter and exasperated declarations.
Jen Turano’s delightful characters, humorous shenanigans, and sweet subtle romance entertain and inspire with sincerity and faith. I highly recommend this story for everyone from teens to the young at heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Caught by Surprise, by Jen Turano, is the third book in the Apart from the Crowd series though it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. Brimming with wit and humor, this book is simply a pleasure to read! Ms. Turano truly has a talent for shaping mere words into beautiful sentences that abound with significance and charm. This novel is certainly creative, captivating, and clever!
Aptly titled, Caught by Surprise is enriched by a swiftly paced plot that is infused with scenes of intrigue, adventure, and numerous surprises. It is also a meaningful story of hope, second chances, and new beginnings.
Above all, the characters in this novel sparkle like vibrant sea glass. Unique and multifaceted, the characters are utterly engaging and unforgettable. They possess endearing qualities that make them unconventional yet inspiring.
Caught by Surprise is a wonderful piece of historical fiction that superbly balances elements of comedy, romance, faith, and suspense, making the story thoroughly readable and wholly entertaining. It is a delightful novel from beginning to end, and I enthusiastically recommend it to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Love! Love! Love! I am obsessed with Jen Turano’s characters in this series!
I can’t choose a favorite but I absolutely love Temperance Flowerdew! “While she’d embraced the idea of living a less-than-adventurous life, she’d sacrificed her true sense of self, becoming a woman she didn’t even recognize.” Seeing her reclaim her true self was so much fun to read. The way she spoke to her captors as if they were not truly of the “criminal persuasion” was a hoot. The story is well balanced with comedy and drama, full of adventure and heart.
Without giving spoilers, I will say have a tissue handy, there are a few moments that brought me to tears. Tears of sadness, tears of laughter, and tears of ultimate joy.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I recommend the whole series!
*I own the paperback, the Kindle version and the Audible version (Lauren Ezzo is a great narrator!)
This is one of the more emotional books of the series. I enjoyed each story immensely, but particularly this one as Temperance and Gilbert learned that the best relationships are built on respect and friendship and genuine caring. They drive each other crazy and wouldn’t change a thing.
If you have started the series, you have to finish it. You will enjoy learning how life ends up for the characters you have come to know so we’ll, both major and minor. If you haven’t started the series, you will still enjoy this book as it is filled with Jen Turano’s classic humor and wit, but you will enjoy it more if you have started at the beginning and had a chance to see how each person has changed from beginning to end. Gos is busy in the lives of the characters in these three books and one novella and it’s always a shame to miss any of that even in works of fiction. You never know where you will see your own self reflected.
Thoroughly wonderful, fun, and laugh out loud enjoyable read. I think this might be my favorite by this author, though the pig Matilda still gives it a run for its money( quite literally, actually). 🙂
The main characters and secondary characters are just so fun. Due to the crazy life I lead, I so enjoyed this series. We are all a little ridiculous at times, and I, at least, love having fun. This author’s books are so unique in their humor, fun in their plots, and characters that sometimes closely resemble people I know…namely myself!
You just must give this author a chance…if you live to laugh, have fun, smile, and enjoy even the difficulties of life, then you MUST read this book and series-Apart From the Crowd. Do not miss out on her other series as well.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I have no idea what God was thinking with this one, Gilbert….I simp,y accept the results, and what we’re witnessing now, my dear friend,are wonderful results.
Reverend Perry believes God gives us these difficult times to allow us an opportunity to grow. You’ve certainly grown, risen above the neglect, and seized life in a new and exciting way…
In all honesty I’m beginning to believe that my time spent as a poor relation to Wayne and Fanny was God’s way of allowing me to see that none of us are superior to one another.
“You’re very annoying.” Were the most eloquent words she seemed capable of getting out of her mouth.
…that love had begun to change. It had begun to turn into something…more. That thought caught her completely by surprise…
I very much enjoyed reading this book. The characters were hilarious and quirky. All of them were fun to get to know.
This author packed so much drama and humor into this story it kept me guessing right up till the end.
The plot was very unique and the dialogue was so witty. The conversations between the two main characters was so funny it had me chuckling a few times. I will be reading more by this author for sure!
I so enjoyed this sweet and humorous (audiobook) finale to Jen Turano’s Apart from the Crowd series about three New York City “wallflowers” in the 1880s. I enjoyed all of the stories and the witty banter contained in each, but this last one had me laughing out loud at the conversation and repartee of not only Gilbert and Temperence but characters from the first two novels in the series who also made appearances in this book. Side characters Eugene and Mercy also added extra mirth to the story. Loved this book and highly recommend the whole series!
Gilbert cracks me up. I don’t even think he was supposed to most of the time, but his lists and schedules just made me laugh. The fact that him and Temperance were such good friends was also amusing, but it also made perfect sense. I could just imagine the “opposite ness” of their relationship being in real life. And Temperance’s stubbornness, and the Huxley sisters, and Jen Turano’s superbly funny writing all make for an absolutely wonderful story.
This couple has been friends since childhood and the adventures they find themselves in are dangerous, mysterious and some just plain fun! Lots of action and the banter between these two kept me turning the pages just to see what they would come up with next! Definitely a fun, feel good book read!
I was gifted a copy by the author and no review was required. My review is voluntary…
This was one of the best and funniest books I have read this year. Caught By Surprise caught me by surprise by making my heart smile. I ADORED the characters of Temperance and Gilbert and I loved their relationship dynamic. Their witty banter was a hoot!! Add in a dose of mystery and this made for a PERFECT book. Caught By Surprise is one of my favorite reads ever!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I was certainly “Caught by Surprise” with a few parts of this story. As always Turano as brought together another cast of misfits with humor, hijinks and of course love. I laughed out loud at so many parts in this story, from the “inept members of the criminal persuasion”, meddling matchmakers and a rangy mutt attempting to look like a dragon I was never bored for a moment. The story kept me hooked until the vary last page. I absolutely adored the epilogue at the end to the point where I had tears in my eyes as I closed the book. A Part from the Crowd is another great series from Jen Turano, I highly recommend you read it.
The Apart from the Crowd series was a laugh-out-loud fun read and book 3, Caught by Surprise was no exception. Temperance Flowerdew, a well known wallflower in society, has felt like poor Cinderella under the care of her cousins. By book 3 she begins to transform into a capable young lady full of confidence and courage. Just when she thinks things are going well, she finds herself abducted, shipped off to Chicago, and finds herself the subject of several murder attempts. In comes dashing Gilbert to the rescue, and a series of bumbling situations ensues as they attempt to find out who is out to kill Temperance. Along the way they grow in faith, strengthen in friendship, and discover that romance may be on the horizon…as well as a few surprises! I love Jen Turano’s quirky, but lovable characters, funny episodes, and how she presents faith elements in a clear, but non-preachy way. She is my “go to” author when I need a story to lighten my outlook and make me smile.
This is a wonderful historical romantic comedy!
I love the variety of quirky characters that this author has created for this series. It was so much fun looking in on them all again and catching up with the main characters from both of the earlier books. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Miss Temperance Flowerdew and Mr. Gilbert Cavendish take center stage in this final book in the series.
Temperance has come out of her shell and is letting her natural character traits shine forth for all of New York to see. She gets into the most amazingly hilarious situations that kept me laughing. At times it was laugh-out-loud funny and had people giving me very strange looks.
Gilbert has his own peculiar traits that he is working hard to tame so that he can connect with Temperance better. His efforts are just as funny as Temperance’s situations. He is steady and by her side throughout the story.
They find themselves in many dangerous situations which seems to be typical of this author’s writing style. They are surrounded by a number of staunch friends and supporters that are willing to step in and help immediately.
Caught by surprise by Jen Turano
Thought from the summary of this book it was not one I’d be enjoying, thinking of abduction and things smilar to SVU from tv shows.
I was totally wrong and this is a fun read. Temperance is abducted and Gilbert is the one to find her-in Chicago. She tells him of her ordeal, her old time friend who they grew up together.
Just when you think the Pinkerton man has found the culprits other clues come into play. and just when you think it’s been solved again, MORE clues are told.
So many secrets from the past come to light making the mysteries believeable.
Love hearing of how astritic she is in everything she touches. Like mention of the Vanderbilts and Astors from Newport, RI and their cottages-we had just visited one of the marble mansions and I can see how theses characters would fit right in.
This book is not only about Temperance but others, Clementine and all the others who come to play a part.
So many twists and turns, very unpredictable.
I was able to listen to this from the National Library Service and each character had their own voice-was a fun read for me.
Although this is book 3 it can be read as a stand alone.
recommended by Bookfun.org
Jen Turano does a fabulous job at creating hilarious tales of woe during the Gilded Age. I have loved and looked forward to all her writings. Her latest creating, Caught by Surprise, is really no surprise. It is a fabulous conclusion to the series. I have enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what the next series includes.
Turano creates a cast of characters worthy of any sitcom. They are unique, boastful, and proud to right the wrong in their lives. While in most romances, it is the girl who falls in love first and then has to practically drag the man to fall in love with her, Turano flips the story on its head and allows the women to be the ones that can’t imagine following in love with these men who are interested in them. A number of times, she had me laughing at why the women weren’t impressed by the men who obviously did outlandish things to try to impress them. It was nice to see the previous two wallflowers, who tell their stories in Behind the Scenes and Out of the Ordinary come back to support Temperance in her story.
It was nice to finally get to know and understand Temperance, the last girl of the wallflowers. She blossomed on the page, even though she was determined not to fall in love with her childhood friend, Gilbert Cavendish. Opposite Temperance is Gilbert, the hero who could have someone wanting him dead too. He protected Temperance like a true hero does and keeps begging for her to marry him.
The plot is funny and moves at a rapid pace. I wish I could spend more time with Turano’s characters. The novel is comforting and a great way to spend a couple of hours. I truly enjoyed this whole series. I think I might return and re-read them from the start again.
Overall, Jen Turano’s Caught by Surprise is a fabulous, yet surprising story filled with guns, knife fights, paint, and romance all set during the Gilded Age. I couldn’t read through the novel fast enough. I anxiously await her next series to see what new characters and what trouble Turano allows them to get into.
I received a complimentary copy of Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.