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
Poppy Garrison was raised out in the country on a horse ranch, but she accepts a proposition that she participate in a season, and in return her wealthy grandmother will cover her family’s debts.
Her grandmother desperately wants Poppy to excel in high society as a diamond of the first water, instead she finds herself dodging one social disaster after another. Her grandmother asks Reginald Blackburn, 2nd son of a duke, to help Poppy to make a success of her season.
Poppy is well out of her depth in high society, but I admired how she gives it her best effort. She has a no-nonsense sensibility, and doesn’t see the purpose of all the hoopla and ceremony. She longs for a life of purpose beyond the next social outing. I admired her strength to stand up to her domineering grandmother, and how she stands up for herself.
Reginald has come to America to help his cousin Earl Charles Wynn find a wealthy American wife. But he is every bit the proper English gentleman, with no interest in an American wife, he has a secret of his own that he doesn’t want to get out into society. But when word gets out that he is helping Poppy, mothers of other American heiresses leap at the opportunity to put their daughters under his cousin’s nose. Reginald is intrigued by Poppy’s forthrightness, honest charm and practical sensibilities which bring out a softer side in himself.
Jen Turano at her best, with this highly entertaining read with an admirable heroine, hilarious escapades, faith, friendship, and romance. Poppy shines as a true friend and encourager, finding her own place as a fish out of water. She befriends many others who struggle to fit the mold. Sparkling dialogue brings this book to life, especially between Poppy and Reginald. I loved the fast paced, twisting plot, with fantastic characters at every turn, plenty of laugh out loud humor. Utterly enjoyable, you won’t want to miss it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Oh I am a card carrying member of the Poppy fan club. I enjoyed the first book in this engaging series very much. This second offering is even better. Poppy is a heroine for any person who has felt awkward but kept on going anyway.
From mishap to misadventure to diabolical deeds, Poppy stays true to herself and I Think that was what I loved the most. Turano has created a humorous character for sure, but one who made me want to be a better person.
I learned an impressive amount about New York Society, loved the descriptions of various places that were so strong I could picture them clearly in my mind, and the distinctive characters that made me want to invite them over for tea.
My one bone of contention – Poppy didn’t like clotted cream on her scones. Speaking as a British person, this is sacrilegious!!!! (I still completely loved the book though).
Let me just say, our author’s books just keep getting better and better! Poppy was such a heroine- formidable, clumsy, beautiful, and totally relatable. Reginald seems cool and distant at first, but we quickly find out he has a heart under all that etiquette. The historical detail truly transported me to the time and place described, and boy did I get a real mental picture. The plot was steady placed with twists and turns and a slow blossoming romance that truly delights. I love how the author always reminds us that true loves knows no obstacles, and that everyone is perfect just the way they are. In a time when individuality was truly repressed in young ladies, Poppy brings us the heroine we all wish was a BFF. Let’s not forget the many foibles our heroine finds herself in including getting her tiara caught in her dancing partner’s sleeve! Lol Overall, this book is relatable, richly historical, and a beautiful blossoming romance all in one package. Bravo, Jen!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
Jen Turano is one of my favorite authors and I enjoy her physical comedies that often have me laughing out loud, even on my most difficult of days. One of the reasons are her quirky heroines, and Poppy is no exception, declaring that she has, “always felt that misfits are far more interesting than normal folks.” Thankfully, as a reader, I agree wholeheartedly!
The historical details are rich in this book, probably because Poppy needs instruction on proper etiquette to fit into the highest echelons of society. It must have been exhausting to learn, remember, and attempt to adhere to the myriad rules imposed on women during this time.
Poppy is a bit of a misfit, but delightfully so, refusing to do as many in her social circle would do in regards to seeking position or title, or in how they treat those who are beneath them or with fewer financial resources. She is sweet, practical, and caring.
Reginald begins the book a bit stuffy, making him the perfect candidate to teach Poppy how to adhere more strictly to the rules, at her grandmother’s request. And the time they spend together helps him to relax and learn that perhaps there is more to life than rules.
For me, aside from the humor, the best part of this book is the growth in both the main characters and even many of the secondary ones. They take on dimension with positive and negative qualities, learning and growing as the pages turn.
This is another solid novel from Turano and one I enjoyed. Those who like historical or comedic romance will turn the pages eagerly, and readers who have an interest in the Gilded Age should thoroughly enjoy this visit to the past. I highly recommend it.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
After rolling on the floor laughing I am now able to collect my thoughts. Poppy is hysterical and so full of life that I would love to be her friend. She has a big task ahead of her to help her family out which proves to be a journey she will never forget.
The opening pages of the book set the tone for the delightful writing talent of the author. She is known for witty and charming characters. Poppy is hands down my favorite and she is written with pure inspiration and charm. I could picture Poppy as she and her dashing partner danced around the room. Leave it to Poppy to make a scene at a gala with important and influential people .
Reginald is a very distinguished gentleman who Poppy’s grandmother sets her sights on to help Poppy. Oh what a deal Poppy is getting into because of her grandmother. The banter between Poppy and her grandmother is priceless. Two very determined women trying to get the upper hand on the other. The author has out done herself with this wonderful story filled with laughs, family values and faith.
As Poppy matures and becomes more refined I felt she finally realized how loved she was by many. Her grandmother wants her to marry for money. Poppy has admirers but will she do what her grandmother wants? This is one story that I couldn’t put down because it was funny yet reminiscent of someone finding their place in life.
As with all her books, the author gives us wonderful characters and leaves us with a wonderful message that stays with you forever. I love the faith elements in the story and reading how a young woman named Poppy learned to believe in herself.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and author. The review is my own opinion.
I’m not sure there are adequate words to describe how I feel about books by Ms. Turano. Anyone can say they love a book, but it doesn’t seem to be appropriate here, because I more than love them. I adore them. I can’t get enough of them. Her books always put a smile on my face, cheer me up on a bad day, and transport me to another world. Her character names are ingenious, some of their traits (and quotes) are entertaining, and the circumstances are always delightfully hilarious. Diamond in the Rough is no exception.
Poppy just might be my favorite character by Turano, ever. She says things at the wrong time, gets herself into some interesting pickles, and is a total handful. However, she is charming, not afraid to stand up for what she thinks is right, and honestly tries to do the right thing. She is loyal to her family, and the cause of her grandmother trying to make her the best of the season. The scenes she has with children, with those less fortunate, and with her friends are such a pleasure to read. They show the true nature of Poppy – which should be seen by some other not-so-nice characters in the book.
There were so many laughable scenes I can’t even remember them all! The first line alone was great, let alone talking about snails tasting like chicken, the deaf Mr. Phalen thinking Viola was changing her name to Frank, ending up in water, and so many more. Turano is known for her quirky lines and this book has several to enjoy. The way Turano weaves a little humor into a good portion of the book is just amazing. The fact that her mind can think up these crazy stories just blows my mind!
But don’t let the humor fool you – Turano is also great at weaving in remarkable lessons in her stories. My favorite in this one happened to come from a character other than Poppy (I won’t say who to refrain from having a spoiler). This person happens to have a scene with the less fortunate, and sees how they truly live. It is at that very moment the character realizes all that they truly have and take for granted. It is also at that time I started to think of all that I had and take for granted. Yes, even among the comedy, there are lessons to be learned, and thoughts you cannot help but think. Bravo Ms. Turano for reminding me how good I really have it, even on days when I don’t feel like I do!
All in all, as with every other Turano book ever written, this is a book that you need to read! The characters, the circumstances, the setting, are all worth your time. I encourage you to really read into the characters and try to figure out who the bad guys might really be. I think you’ll be a little surprised with a twist at the end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A madcap romance
My rating is 4.5 stars
Poppy took the New York Four Hundred by storm when her grandmother blackmailed her into coming for a Season. Unconventional, to say the least, she was constantly shocking the staid Upper Crust with her constant faux pas. I loved that she didn’t set out to brook convention. In fact, she really did try to do the right thing. Most of the time. . .
Reginald was so fun in his very proper way. As a very proper British (not English!) gentleman, he knew what was expected and was determined to ensure that his cousin, the Count, was not tricked into an undesirable marriage. And somehow found himself committing to help Poppy learn what was expected. What he didn’t expect was the need to constantly come to her rescue.
There were so many enjoyable characters. Murray, the mama’s boy. Oh, how I loved seeing him come into his own! Viola, Poppy’s grandmother. Charles, Reginald’s cousin. Beatrix, who I’m sure is going to have her own story. Even Nigel.
In between the laugh-out-loud moments were undercurrents of lessons learned. Forgiveness. Priorities. Helping the poor. That sometimes society doesn’t know best and it is okay to just what is right. There is a spiritual message here, though it is subtle.
Readers who enjoy humorous historical fiction will find Jen Turano‘s Diamond in the Rough to be a real gem.
Read my review of Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Diamond in the Rough is the second book in the American Heiress Series by Jen Turano. The story starts with heiress, Poppy Garrison, getting her tiara tangled up in her dance partner’s sleeve during a quadrille and that begins one of the most fun-loving and delightfully written books I have read in a long time. Poppy our heroine is funny, straight forward, and has a knack for finding trouble. (I might be able to relate) Our hero,Reginald Blackburn, is the second son of Duke who is everything that is proper. Together they are a great mix of order and chaos. I enjoyed reading all of their encounters, and laughed out loud throughout the story. There are a host of secondary characters in the story that are delightful and make this a memorable book.
Jen Turano has a way of making you smile, making sure you do not take yourself too seriously, and making you think. It really is quite impressive. I anxiously await the release of Jen Turano’s books. I was not disappointed with a Diamond in the Rough which was a joy to read. I highly recommend it.
I was given the book by the publisher and not required to write a review.
Another completely enjoyable story from this author! She never disappoints. Once again we have a heroine that doesn’t fit into the typical heroine mold and that makes her all the more lovable. Reginald was the quintessential brooding and desirable hero who unwittingly ends up in the middle of Poppy’s life. Chaos and utter adorableness ensues! I loved the twist of where the sabotage and danger was coming from. So many characters who help the story flow because they all end up playing a perfect part. (you can’t help but love Murray!!) I just want to read this all over again. And thank goodness we don’t have these society requirements now days!
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.
I found this book to be very entertaining. Poppy knows nothing about high society and how she is supposed to act. She’s only there so she can save the family farm. She has no desire to snag a titled husband. Reginald is no Duke, but he is very influential in England. He tries to keep his secret so he won’t be the target of matchmaking mothers. Poppy’s grandmother hires Reginald to help Poppy learn the niceties of society. He grudging accepts and what follows is an adventure for both of them.
This is the second book in the series. I have not read the first book and did not feel lost while reading this book. Although, Diamond in the Rough was so good I want to read the first book. I recommend this book to any one looking for an entertaining read.
I was given this book by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is fabulously witty and fast-paced with tangible descriptions of countryside and mannerisms and costume. Poppy Garrison needs to be my best friend because then there would be someone in my life clumsier than I am. Her character is vibrant and fairly leaps off the page with enthusiasm. Reginald Blackburn was a bit uptight in the beginning but I still liked him immediately. He’s British, you know. 😉 He has a big heart underneath his ‘stuffy’ exterior and is one of the best characters Turano has written, in my opinion.
Poppy and Reginald hold center stage in this book but there are a couple of other storylines that make it even richer in depth and characterization.
Diamond in the Rough has a lot of heart amid the humor.
Fans of historical romance will want to grab a copy of this novel. I was provided a review copy from the publisher with no expectation of a review.
Another amazing offering from this author that’s set in 1885! Poppy has come to New York to enter a Season with the help of her Grandmother, Viola. Lord Lonsdale and his traveling companion Reginald Blackburn have traveled to New York to find an heiress who would make a good countess for Lord Lonsdale (Charles). Viola hires Reginald to give Poppy etiquette lessons. Poppy is a delightful character and is well balanced by Reginald’s more broody nature. She loves to fling some barbs at him, plus getting out of what she can as far as her grandmother’s plans. Trouble seems to find her, which makes for many amusing situations. We get to see Mabel Huxley when they go to tea in the Tea Room, who is always fun. Nigel, whom we met in the first book of this series has moved to New York and knows Poppy since he bought a horse from her family. I spent the book wondering if he was up to something again or really had changed his ways.. Beatrix is also present at times and just as delightful as ever. A wonderful story, with likeable characters and many giggles and laughs along the way. I especially like Poppy and Beatrix’s affinity for animals.
A complimentary copy was provided by Bethany House. A positive review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Set in Gilded Age New York where it was important to be a “diamond of the first water,” Diamond in the Rough features Poppy Garrison who despairs of ever reaching that goal. Delightful, quirky, and prone to mishaps, Poppy seems to attract chaos and pandemonium wherever she goes. She meets each new disaster with aplomb and continues to be her endearing and entertaining self.
“You must have realized by now that I’m not always keen to follow rules.”
Despairing of ever seeing Poppy fit into society, her grandmother hires Reginald Blackburn to give her etiquette lessons. What follows is a hilarious, entertaining romp that left me giggling, chuckling, and laughing out loud (with maybe a snort or two for good measure)! And, yes, I realize that precludes me from being a diamond of the first water! I’ll have to settle for being a diamond in the rough like Poppy. I love Poppy and Reginald. They are both fantastic characters—some of my favorite Turano people. They aren’t perfect, but they’re perfect for each other. A stellar supporting cast adds to the enjoyment and fun of the tale. Filled with witty banter, humor, romance, intrigue, and a few life lessons, it’s a delight to read. I loved the message to be yourself and not who others want you to be.
Jen Turano is an incredibly gifted writer with an amazing sense of humor. Her characters come alive on the page and are so delightful and fun. The settings are all so richly painted, and the colorful imagery in her stories brings them to life. If you’ve never read any of her books, do yourself a favor and grab one. You can start with this one—it’s part of a series, but it can easily be read alone.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own.
I adore Jen Turano and her fabulously fun gilded age stories. Diamond in the Rough is another unforgettable, knee-slapping, giggle-inducing romp through New York high society.
Mayhem finds Poppy Garrison—a fact of life she’s come to accept as her reality. This is apparent by the end of the first sentence of this new releases. Reginald Blackburn is everything you’d expect the son of an English noble to be. So, of course, when Poppy’s grandmother strikes a deal with him to properly educated Poppy in decorum, hilarity ensues.
Yet, behind all the silly and quite memorable situations (come on, Poppy makes a list of all her society faux pas for Reginald), Poppy has a heart of gold. She values family, friendship, and honesty over appearances and gossip. Is it any wonder Reginald, who is horrified upon first meeting Poppy, becomes enamored with her as he spends time with her and sees the beauty of her heart?
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
There are times in life when you need a book to make you giggle and laugh. This book did that for me. And not only did it do that, but it challenged me also! There were nuggets of wisdom scattered throughout the pages filled with humor and antics. Snails flying across the room hitting men at fancy dinners is just a sampling of what goes on within the pages. I adored this book. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.
(You can find my full review on my blog at https://justjenniferpurcell.com/?p=1469)
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Turano’s trademark wit comes out in full force, not only in the banter between the main characters Poppy Garrison and Reginald Blackburn but also in Poppy’s interactions with friends Murray and Beatrix. The dialogue had me laughing out loud as well as the antics of Poppy’s lovable group of friends.
This is my new favorite Jen Turano book!! Oh my goodness-I couldn’t stop laughing throughout the entire book. It was a great light hearted escape from reality. This is a book that should become a movie!!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano is book #2 in the American Heiresses series.
It is a delightful romp into New York high society in 1885.
Can a “Diamond in the Rough” be turned into a “Diamond of the first water”?
After her family has been estranged from her grandparents, Poppy Garrison finds herself under the tutelage of her grandmother Viola Van Rensselaer, one of the elite in New York society. She is to make her debut, where wealthy American fathers hope to marry their daughters to titled Englishmen. The problem is Poppy has no airs or experience. She is also somewhat clumsy. But our heroine has a heart of gold and when she sees the unfortunate in need, she wants to remedy it immediately. Can she be an original by prompting wealthy patrons into helping more personally than just donating money to a cause?
In order to be schooled in proper decorum and etiquette, Poppy meets Reginald Blackburn, who is a traveling companion of his cousin, Lord Charles Lonsdale.
Madcap comedy ensues. Ms. Turano is an expert in portraying floundering females and hilarious situations with a few twists thrown in. The supporting cast is well fleshed out in Murray Middleton and Adele Tooker. Look for an incident with a horse that has the same name as Murray’s mother and the battle of the clotted cream with Adele and Poppy.
This book is not without it’s spiritual elements. Poppy’s grandfather, George, explains his awakening to Poppy and a family reconciliation is the result. The other characters express their faith naturally.
I highly recommend Jen Turano’s books, especially this American Heiresses series to fans of Christian fiction who want a nice romantic comedy kind of story.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was mot required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Another success for the original ladies who have taken early 1900s New York society by storm and sprinkled it with their unique personalities.
There was so much to love about this story. I truly cannot pick just one thing. But I will begin with the heroine of the story, Poppy. Like all of this author’s heroines, Poppy manages to get herself into some pretty funny and strange situations. She handles each situation with a grace that I know I wouldn’t be able to achieve in real life. I so admired that about her. She is strong and independent, but above all has a large capacity of kindness. She deserved a knight. Full review is at my website.
I received this book complimentary from the author. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are my own.
I adore Jen Turano’s writing. She brings the Gilded Age to life and creates remarkable and remember able characters to life. With her second addition to her American Heiress series, Diamond in the Rough, this is no exception. Poppy grew up on a horse farm in Pennsylvania and is having her season in New York. She is completely out of her element and falls, literary, over and over again on her face. She keeps getting into scraps and allowing me to shake my head in laughter as she tries to save her reputation. She transforms by the end of the season but shows her heart by wanting to do good for those less wealthy. On the other hand, Reginald, the hero, keeps his true identity a secret, but is always there to rescue Poppy. There romance appears a little disjointed, but I believe Turano wrote their romance this way on purpose. It made their happily-ever-after a little more sweeter. As for the plot, I really enjoyed spending time with these characters. I got so wrapped up in their lives that I even googled Fifth Avenue mansions during the 1890’s to have an idea of how HUGE these little homes actually were. I love this story and can’t wait to get my hand on the final installment. Thanks for another wonderful story, Turano.
I received a complimentary copy of a Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.