When Miss Beatrix Waterbury’s Chicago-bound train ride is interrupted by a heist, Mr. Norman Nesbit, a man of science who believes his research was the target of the heist, comes to her aid. Despite the fact that they immediately butt heads, they join forces to make a quick escape. Upon her arrival in Chicago, Beatrix is surprised to discover her supposedly querulous Aunt Gladys shares her own … suffragette passions. Encouraged by Gladys to leave her sheltered world, Beatrix begins working as a salesclerk at the Marshall Field and Company department store. When she again encounters Norman on a shopping expedition, he is quickly swept up in the havoc she always seems to attract. But when another attempt is made to part Norman from his research papers, and it becomes clear Beatrix’s safety is also at risk, they soon discover the curious way feelings can grow between two very different people in the midst of chaos.
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‘Ladies, I’ll have you know, don’t care for men who embrace criminal activity.’
Where do I begin to tell you just how much of a forever fan I am of Jen Turano? With each book of hers that I read, I grow even more fond of her work. It’s not long after beginning one of her enchanting novels that I am roaring with laughter! Seriously, she has a wit that will not quit. I can’t imagine anyone being able to write such hilarious work! I am completely captivated when I read he3r books. Totally.
‘You’re acting beyond peculiar, which is peculiar in and of itself since peculiar seems to be a common state for you.’
Turano gives us Miss Beatrix Waterbury and Mr. Norman Nesbit in her third book in the American Heiresses series. Beatrix and Norman just happen to be on the same train when train robbers come on board. Norman comes to her aid, which she does not need nor welcome. They make an escape, and after that, just put down anything you’re holding because you will drop it when you start laughing to beat the band. Truly. I can most highly recommend this author.
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions in this review are entirely my own. (less)
Jen Turano offers up another fantastic book, cementing herself not only as the master of humorous historical fiction but also as a wonderful storyteller. From the opening sentence, I found myself both chuckling at the situations that the characters found themselves and being totally invested in finding out where the book would take them. At the outset, Norman was incredibly frustrating–I wished I could reach through the book and bash him over the head–but I loved seeing the changes he made throughout the book and how he actually took to heart what Beatrix said and made significant changes in how he treated people–and the sweet gestures he made for others totally won me over. I also enjoyed seeing how Beatrix came to find her purpose, with focused actions she could take to further the cause of women. Secondary characters (particularly Theodosia) were also endearing. While there were plenty of madcap adventures and eccentric characters, the context of women’s rights (or lack thereof) provided an engaging backdrop for the story. With tons of humor, great dialogue, a light mystery, and a quick pace, this book was just a ton of fun to read.
4.5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Fun, Danger & Opposites Attract!
Norman Nesbit is a clueless scientist unaware of the many social blunders he makes and the proper Beatrix Waterbury, part of the New York City social set, are thrown together during a train robbery. Together, the differences between the two of them make for some zany situations. Add in eccentric Aunt Gladys, a pack of unusual house cats along with a child prodigy, and chuckles abound.
However, there are serious subjects including the plight of working women, the suffragette movement, and the very real danger that follows Norman at every turn.
Never the less, Norman’s habit of unwittingly offending scores of people, along with Beatrix’s attempt to remain incognito at Chicago’s famous Marshall Field’s Department Store, makes for some entertaining reading.
This fast-moving tale will keep your interest from the first page until the revelation at the book’s end of the one behind all the danger. The character’s faith is an attractive part of the story, and despite being part of a series, this installment stands on its own. I recommend this 5-star book to those who like well-written historical, adventures with a sprinkle of humor.
Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Storing Up Trouble, for the purpose of review.