To save her family from financial ruin, Miss Poppy Garrison accepts an unusual proposition to participate in the New York social season in exchange for her grandmother settling a family loan that has unexpectedly come due. Ill-equipped to handle the intricacies of mingling within the New York Four Hundred, Poppy becomes embroiled in one hilarious fiasco after another, doomed to suffer a grand … societal failure instead of being deemed the diamond of the first water her grandmother longs for her to become.
Reginald Blackburn, second son of a duke, has been forced to travel to America to help his cousin, Charles Wynn, Earl of Lonsdale, find an American heiress to wed in order to shore up his family estate that is in desperate need of funds. Reginald himself has no interest in finding an heiress to marry, but when Poppy’s grandmother asks him to give etiquette lessons to Poppy, he swiftly discovers he may be in for much more than he bargained for.more
Such a fun book of crazy misadventures! The tone is set perfectly from the opening line: “Any smidgen of hope that her entrance in New York high society would be deemed a rousing success died the moment Miss Poppy Garrison’s tiara became firmly attached to the sleeve of her dancing partner.” And it only got crazier from there. Poppy was such a fun heroine. Intrepid, kind, and fully aware that mayhem followed her wherever she went yet didn’t let that slow her down. I give it a big thumb’s up.
When I was a little girl, my most favorite TV show was Three’s Company. I had a serious little-girl crush on Jack Tripper. I thought he was the funniest man ever. There was this one episode where Jack and Janet and Terri are at a barn. I cannot remember why they were there, but I can remember how funny Jack was. He was so inept at farmwork it was hilarious. He fell from a hayloft, he couldn’t milk a cow, and he smacked himself in the face with the handle end of a hoe. This one episode had little-girl me dying I was laughing so hard.
Why am I telling you this? Because Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano filled me with the same level of joy I felt when I was a little girl watching Three’s Company. Later in life, I would learn that John Ritter’s style of comedy is called slapstick, and I became quite a fan of the physical comedy schtick. I can say with certainty that when it comes to writing, Jen Turano is the queen of slapstick. There are so many delightful moments in Diamond in the Rough where I laughed out loud. Poppy Garrison, the heroine of this novel, is a veritable force to be reckoned with, and mayhem follows her at every turn. She is awesome!!!
My most favorite character is Murray. He may be the most endearing character I’ve ever had the delight to encounter, and his growth from page one to the end is superb. I quite literally cheered Murray on the whole story. Around the 60% mark, Murray makes a realization, and I found his realization to be a stellar reminder for me too. Due to earlier mayhem in the novel, Poppy, Reginald, and Murray meet a young girl named Maria. Maria and her family have fallen on hard times and now live in a rough part of town. Maria sells flowers. In an effort to help Maria’s family, Poppy, Reginald, and Murray pay exorbitant amounts of money for Maria’s flowers. Maria protests that they are giving too much but Murray counters, “I have plenty of money, Maria, but you’ve just had me realizing that I’ve never appreciated that before, nor have I ever done anything worthwhile with the money I have. You’ll be allowing me to feel useful for once if you simply accept my gift. Your Christmas present to me.”
I love this teachable moment so much! It reminds me to count my blessings and take stock in myself. Am I utilizing my blessings the way God wants? Am I filled with gratitude, or have I turned into a woman who takes God’s blessings for granted? As Murray realizes in Diamond in the Rough, I too need to make sure that I am giving thanks to God for His blessings in my life, and I need to make sure that I am honoring God by being a good steward of those blessings.
Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano is a literary gem. I thoroughly enjoyed every second spent reading this novel, and I will miss these characters greatly. If you are in the need for a well written, hilarious, and endearing read this holiday season, I highly recommend Diamond in the Rough. You will love this book!
I purchased an eBook copy of this novel from Amazon on September 3, 2019, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Diamond in the Rough, by Jen Turano, the second book in the American Heiresses series, is an utterly delightful novel bursting with unforgettable wit and humor. Once again, Ms. Turano has confirmed that she is undoubtedly a gifted writer with a talent for creating charming stories that inspire even as they entertain. A genuine pleasure to read, this book is truly memorable and endearing.
Diamond in the Rough is a wholly captivating story that is full of unexpected events and plenty of surprises. Abounding with scenes of adventure, comedy, romance, and intrigue, this novel also offers a meaningful story of hope, compassion, reconciliation, and new beginnings. The characters in this book are especially original and compelling. They display endearing qualities that make them unconventional and engaging. As they persevere through difficulties, evaluate their expectations, and pursue their goals, the characters are relatable and inspiring.
Diamond in the Rough is certainly a wonderful piece of historical fiction. Its thoughtful combination of comedy, romance, and faith makes the story very appealing and extremely enjoyable. It is a splendid novel that I recommend wholeheartedly.
*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
She’s taking New York, and him, by storm!
There are many adjectives that apply to a Jen Turano book. Delightful. Charming. Enchanting. Captivating. Fascinating. Engaging. Lovely. Scrumptious. All of these definitely apply to this Diamond In The Rough who, with the help of a certain English gentleman, is either going to turn into a diamond of the first water or a colossal disgrace during her first society season.
But, oh, Poppy’s madcap adventures are so much fun! As is Reginald’s amusing attempts to reign her in and save her from herself. I’d swear I say this with every new release, but it’s true. Diamond In The Rough is probably my favorite Jen Turano book…so far…or at least until the next American Heiresses book comes out.
You really can’t go wrong choosing to read a Jen Turano book. Whether you love historical romance or romantic comedy she’s got you covered. The addition of a suspense thread to each book is icing on a very wonderful ‘cake’! Diamond In The Rough is a definite must read in my book. What are you waiting for…?
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Full review and author q&a on FaithfullyBookish.com
Diamond in the Rough has it all from adventure and sweet romance to heartwarming faith-in-action, reconciliation, and light-hearted humor.
Poppy is simply delightful! Although her country roots and propensity for landing in outrageous situations don’t bode well for a triumphant social season among those 400 fancy folks in the big city, I greatly enjoyed the way she innocently shocked those stiff shirts and pampered ladies time and time again.
Reginald is a cautious, quiet gentleman. It’s no wonder he’s suspicious when surrounded by overly eager and flirtatious, title-seeking females and their mothers! I love the way Poppy inadvertently ruffles his feathers and leaves him hot under the collar!
Jen Turano lavishes readers with stories that touch the heart and tickle the funny bone. Fans will notice cameo appearances by characters from her previous stories yet this book can be easily be enjoyed as a standalone. Diamond in the Rough doesn’t skimp on the substance for the sake of being entertaining.
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.
I pre-ordered Jen Turano’s latest book, Diamond in the Rough, months ago and it was totally worth the wait. I absolutely LOVED it!!! Poppy is such a fun character and her antics keep the reader laughing throughout! Jen has a way of pulling her reader into the story and even while you are away from the book, you are thinking about the characters and plot and looking for ways to get back to the book. I wish I could tell you more about, but I would hate to spoil the surprises to come in this breath of fresh air that is The Diamond in the Rough. While I wait for book #3 in the American Heiresses series, I’ll be picking up a copy Serving Up Love, a novella collection of HARVEY GIRL STORIES by Jen Turano and three other great authors!!!!
Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano is the second book in the American Heiresses series. It can be read as a standalone for those new to this series of books. However, I heartily recommend reading Flights of Fancy (it is a delight to read). From the very first page, I was drawn into this engaging and humorous historical novel. Poppy Garrison is a vibrant woman with a zest for life. She is twenty-two years old and could care less about society. However, she made a promise to her grandmother and Poppy intends to keep it. Viola did not count on Poppy’s clumsiness or how often she manages to get herself into sticky situations. Poppy’s antics had me laughing through the whole book (there is a snail incident, a busy bustle, runaway horses, a tiara incident and so much more). Reginald Blackburn is an English gentleman who believes is proper decorum. He agrees to give lessons to Poppy, but he had not idea it was going to be such a challenge. I like how the characters grow as individuals as the story progresses. While Diamond in the Rough is humorous, there are some sweet, tender moments. The story focuses on Poppy and Reginald, but there are side stories involving some of the other characters (like Charles Wynn, Murray Middletown, Viola Van Rennsselaer, and Poppy’s mother). I thought Diamond in the Rough was well-written and it proceeded at a fast pace. I like how Jen Turano captured the time period with the clothing, language, the dances, books, conveyances, and people. I was swept back to the Gilded Age and watched Poppy as she was let loose on New York high society. My favorite line comes from Poppy when she states, “I’ve always felt that misfits are far more interesting than normal folks.” Diamond in the Rough is by far my favorite book by Jen Turano. I cannot wait to read the next novel in the American Heiresses series. Diamond in the Rough is an amusing historical novel that has dizzying dances, runaway rides, an eager earl, rowing relatives, slippery snails, husband hunters and a peppy Poppy.
When Turano’s heroine, Poppy Garrison, snagged her tiara on the sleeve of her dance partner in the opening scene, I knew Diamond in the Rough would be another hilarious glimpse into life in the Gilded Age. Poppy may be my favorite of Turano’s characters yet, someone I’d truly like to spend more time with. She is intelligent, kind, and did I mention a bit prone to disaster? If that isn’t enough, her grandmother hires a rather stodgy, brooding sort of a British chap to help her navigate the dos and don’ts of NYC high society. Poor Reginald has no idea what he’s in for but with each rescue Poppy slowly wins his heart.
This novel was packed with rich historical details from the intricate quadrilles, to the proper etiquette of the New York 400, or life for immigrants and the House of Industry in Manhattan’s lower east side. Have no doubt, A Diamond in the Rough is a true gem you won’t want to miss and secures Jen Turano’s place as the Queen of the historical rom-com.
Although I was given a free copy of this book by the publisher, I enjoyed it so much I purchased it on Kindle and Audible. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Loved this new audiobook from the talented Jen Turano!
From start to finish this is such a fun, high-spirited, effervescent story *insert happy sigh*!! Without fail, I know that I can depend on finding an enjoyable story when I pick up a book written by author Jen Turano.
With vivacious and often quirky characters that beacon you to kick-up your heels and join in the fun antics. Toss in a measure of light-hearted banter and you have the perfect recipe for a story that is sure to have you both gasping at the sheer genius and laughing out loud wishing you had thought of something similar yourself. I just love the characters of this book!
Jen Turano has a knack for artfully tucking into her light-hearted stories serious topics that often in polite conversations we tip-toe around. The savy reader will appreciate the delicate, balance achieved here and appreciate the blend of fun and serious that most skip right past in joyful abandon.
If you are searching for a fun, entertaining novel to lighten your mood and bring laughter to your day then this is the book for you! To be sure this story has found a place of honor on my keeper shelf!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
Jen Turano is one of my go-to authors, and this book is exactly why. I held the book for a weekend I needed a break. And then I laughed out loud through the book. So much fun!
If you enjoy historical fiction with humor then you must read Diamond in the Rough. I laughed my way through this book, certain that I need Poppy as a best friend. The characters in this story are so well developed and delightful that you will love them and want to go to a ball with them. However the story is not all humor. There is mystery afoot with an unexpected twist, and of course there is light romance. Something for everyone!
With the underlying thread of hope, forgiveness, and restoration, Turano does a great job of weaving faith into her story without preaching. And when the son of and English duke meets the daughter of an American horse farm owner, watch out. Shenanigans ensue!
Note this is the second book in the American Heiresses series but acts as a stand alone. However, after you read this you’ll want to go back and read Flights of Fancy because author Jen Turano just keeps getting better! Grab a copy of Diamond in the Rough. You’ll love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
“Allow me to be frank,” I absolutely, wholeheartedly LOVED this book!
Poppy Garrison is a unique heroine. She finds herself in the most peculiar circumstances but they don’t seem to upset her at all. She has spirit and spunk!
The humor drew me in from the first line. This story provides many moments of laughter throughout its pages, I laughed out loud more times than I can count.
One thing I always love about Jen Turano books is the underlying message of hope, forgiveness, and healing. This book had that and more.
Poppy’s parents have been mostly estranged from her grandparents since they married. When Poppy says “Mother! What are you doing here?” was fantastic. The tension between Elizabeth and Viola is palpable but it led to a much-needed conversation.
Reginald Blackburn is a wonderful hero! He truly comes to Poppy’s rescue in several situations. I love the decorum lessons he gives Poppy and the patient persistence he has with her.
I really liked the hidden references to previous series and the appearance of Miss Mabel Huxley. I loved seeing her again. It’s nice to know she hasn’t changed.
I never think of the people dwelling on Jen Turano books as characters. They are fully formed real-life people in my mind and I love them all! Even the villains.
I highly recommend this book in any format. I own the paperback, the e-book, and the audio versions. I will be reading and listening to it again and again
Diamond In The Rough, by Jen Turano, is another winner. But don’t just take my word for it, read it!
Poppy Garrison is a delightful character. If you’ve read any of Turano’s books, you’ll know there is always a quirky character and mayhem. Just what I love. Turano’s books are a wonderful stress reliever if you need a laugh out loud adventure. Reginald Blackburn matches Poppy, stride for stride, although the poor man gets a run for his money, so to speak. We all know what it’s like to feel the pressure to live up to expectations and both these characters wrestle with this concept in their own ways.
I think Murray quickly became one of my favorite characters in the book. Be warned, you may laugh out loud or dissolve into a fit of giggles while reading this book. So really, it’s good for your mental health. The societal norms of the day lend themselves to all sorts of shenanigans and seeing Poppy challenge those norms is hilarious.
I always look forward to Jen Turano’s books because they entertain and they transport me to another era. Diamond in the Rough was no different.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley, my opinion is my own.
I simply adored this hilarious, even slapstick comedy. It took me a while to say that, though, (because Poppy is a Diamond in the Rough, after all) but I eventually did connect with the characters, including Reginald, Murray, the Leggett sisters, Poppy’s family, and even Giles. Poppy was presented for a New York season after her somewhat desperate parents strike a bargain with her grandmother, to but our leading lady was a far cry from being the belle of the ball. More than a little clumsy and a magnet for mischief, it was easy for Poppy to steal readers’ hearts. Reginald was definitely a borderline curmudgeon to start, but eventually he relaxed, joined in the fun, and let his delightful true colors show. There was just a wee bit too much “insta-love”, and I really wanted to spend more time with Poppy and Reginald. That being said, the entire book was just so full of heart and warmth, and shined a light on the social causes of the Gilded Age.
When one finds that they have four books on the go and that the first finished is the last started, it should come as no surprise that it is by Jen Turano. Because, long before finishing it, the madcap nature of the story has been a reminder.
An heiress who longs to return to the country and her horses, an aristocrat hiding his title, and a formidable high society grandmother who coerces one to make her New York social debut and the other to give her etiquette lessons. An intriguing premise that, in the hands of Jen Turano, is a sheer delight.
Poppy Garrison, reluctant debutante, and Reginald Blackburn, second son of a Duke, make an unlikely but utterly charming pair as she struggles to get through the Season and he finds himself agreeing to give her etiquette lessons. Along with a lively set of secondary characters, whose own storylines add much to Poppy and Reginald’s, the references to Turano’s Apart From the Crowd trilogy – complete with a bit of a bustle mishap – enhance what is, overall, a thoroughly enjoyable and amusing story.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy their Historical Romance with a bit of humor, a bit of faith, and a satisfying Happily Ever After.
This review refers to a digital galley read through NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
This book is absolutely hilarious. The adventures of the heroine are so much fun. Can’t wait to read more by Jen Turano.
Loved the humor! First time reading this author. She has another fan!
I laughed out loud and loved everything about this book.
I love this book, it is definitely one of my favorite recent reads! All of Jen Turano’s books are so fun to read. I love her characters, their dialogue is always hilarious. I always end up laughing when I read her books. They are the kind of books I love to read when I am stressed (and grouchy), they always cheer me up.
Poppy is someone who I would love to meet in real life, or to spend more time with in a book. She is smart, funny, stubborn and tough. Poppy is always getting into trouble in some way, she just can’t seem to help it! Poppy is a breath of fresh air to her grandparents and all of the New York 400.
I loved seeing Reginald’s character develop over the book. He really lightened up and learned how to smile. Poppy and Reginald really balance each other out. I loved reading their conversations with each other, it always made me smile.
(Review Written 2019)