Diamond in the Rough (American Heiresses Book #2)
4.8
60
5
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352
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Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781493420292 |
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| Publisher: | Baker Publishing Group |
| Publication date: | 09/03/2019 |
| Series: | American Heiresses Series , #2 |
| Sold by: | Barnes & Noble |
| Format: | NOOK Book |
| Pages: | 352 |
| Sales rank: | 303 |
| File size: | 8 MB |
About the Author
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
Diamond in the Rough
4.8 out of 5
based on
0 ratings.
60 reviews.
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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.
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https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2844102727
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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.
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This book was an absolute JOY to read. I love every one of Jen Turano's books, but this one absolutely took the cake. All of Poppy and Reginald's madcap adventures (including some absolutely delightful etiquette lessons) on the road to love made for a hilarious and highly entertaining read.
I am eagerly awaiting Beatrix's story in Book #3, Storing Up Trouble.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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Jen has done it again! There is a reason Jen is one of my absolute favorite authors, because her books have the perfect ratio of romance, humor, a bit of mystery and characters I love. I have yet to read one of her historical books that I didn’t adore (and I have read them all!), and Diamond In The Rough is no exception. The escapades that Poppy somehow manages get tangled up in kept me in stitches and I loved the new characters we met in this story, especially Murray. He was adorable and I loved seeing his growth in the book. If you love to laugh, I HIGHLY recommend this book. As for me, this book has more than earned its place on my keeper shelf next to the rest of Jen’s lovelies.
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
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A Force to be Reckoned With!
Although Poppy was forced to take part in just one season of New York society, her penchant for attracting trouble could make her remembered for years. Time after time, she finds herself embroiled in activities that shock her genteel grandmother, Viola. Out of desperation, Viola convinces the very proper British Reginald Blackburn (who is secretly a Duke’s son) to instruct Poppy about the correct way to behave. Reginald himself is fit to be tied by Poppy since she continues getting into trouble and drags him into it as well.
Many hilarious situations develop, although, some of them unexpectedly turn out to be serious. In an unforeseen twist, the ending brings together lots of information that hadn’t seemed related. I loved this this clean, entertaining tale was told from a Christian perspective.
A good point about how secrets eventually come out was made to Reginald, but applies to others who have secrets in this story. Murray’s characteristics didn’t come together for me (was he originally going to be someone different?), but everything else in this fun tale drew me in. This 5-star book will be enjoyed by those who like well-written, light-hearted romances of yesteryear--with some unforeseen zigzags.
Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of, Diamond in the Rough, for the purpose of review.
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Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano was a laugh-out-loud, intriguing, awkward sometimes, can’t put it down read. This book has the feels of a Jane Austen. I felt she did a good job of developing her characters. Some of them had me liking them and some of them were cheats! The dressing gown incident was LAUGH-OUT-LOUD funny! The events and dresses were descriptive. The snail incident was HUMOROUS! Actually, there was a lot of laughing through this one. I recommend you pick this one up.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
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I love this author. If Jen has a new book out, I must read it. If she were to rewrite the phone book, it would be entertaining and funny. I know we don't use phone books anymore, they are antiquated, but I'm just saying! She creates some of the most interesting characters like Miss Poppy Garrison. That poor young lady can get herself into more trouble, it just seems to find her. My husband can tell when I am reading one of Jen Turano's books. They are always laugh out loud funny. Ounce I pick it up, I can't put it down. Here is the first lines of this page turning book, " Any smidgen of hope that her entrance into 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 dance partner .You can't go wrong by reading Diamond in the Rough.
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This is hands down my favorite book of Jen's to-date! (Is anyone keeping track of how many times I've said that?) Characters both charming and despicable...Predicaments both humorous and daring.
As the story weaves around Miss Poppy and her attempts at making a smooth transition into society...She gains an unwitting tutor in a very *ahem* dashing Englishman. While Reginald exhausts all avenues available to him to make Poppy a "Diamond of the first water" he conceals his true identity from Poppy.
I have never laughed so much! I kept waking up my husband from all my giggling! Jen Turano has such a unique voice and weaves a beautiful story with thrilling dynamics and a sweet romance.
I received a complimentary copy of Diamond in the Rough from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
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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.
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I went into this book thinking it was going to be like the many Regency novels I've read, and though it has some similarities with the upper class of society it was much more modern. And it should be, as the Regency era only lasted from 1811-1820 (thank you Wikipedia) and this takes place in 1885. So, while I have probably miscategorized many books as being Regency novels when they are, in fact, Victorian, one need not get hung up on the details of what to call what era. The point is that the social setting is among the wealthiest and "important" people in New York, and the main character, Poppy, is forced to socialize among them in order to save her family financially.
There is a bit of a My Fair Lady feel to Poppy being taught etiquette by Reginald Blackburn. The story was pretty lighthearted even throughout the crazy circumstances that came about. I didn't develop deep connections to the characters, but they were likable, and it was an entertaining read.
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Poppy Garrison is such a loveable character!
Bless her heart, she has some of the funniest problems. Now, one wouldn't think there would be many circumstances that would be noteable, let alone hilarious, in a New York Four Hundred social season, but Poppy manages to entertain us with all of her antics.
The perfect person to offset Poppy is Reginald Blackburn. The prim, proper Reginald is tasked with giving Poppy etiquette lessons... the results are hilariously funny.
I loved this book.
I hope you choose to pick up a copy, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
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Diamond in the Rough is the second book in the American Heiresses series, although it is not necessary to read the first book (Flights of Fancy) before reading this one. Of course, Flights of Fancy was a fabulous book and if you like fun historical romance novels you will love it.
Miss Poppy Garrison's grandmother has finagled a way to involve her in the 1985 New York social season, and the book begins with a hilarious account of the disastrous results. As usual, Turano has created a character who, despite her best efforts, gets literally tangled up in the midst of an important dance and causes a scene that is definitely not considered appropriate by high society. As a person who has two left feet, I could immediately sympathize with Poppy and the situations she finds herself in.
As the book continues, mishaps and misunderstandings continue for this young woman who really has the best interest of others at heart. I realized about two-thirds of the way through the book that my face hurt from smiling so much as I read! I love Turano's books for this reason -- it is so seldom than any author is so brilliant at engaging the reader in such crazy and yet somehow realistic escapades that I laugh out loud. They are a great way to escape the drudgery and disasters that headline our daily news.
But these books are filled with so much more than just funny events. The characters have depth, intriguing secrets, and fascinating conversations. In addition, I love the historical details that are included. The descriptions of the clothing (and their advantages/disadvantages) have me both wanting to try something so beautiful and glad we don't have to wear such things these days! While I typically don't care much for romance books, there is so much more here that I don't mind the occasional predictability about who falls in love with whom.
Diamond in the Rough is a story of trying to fit in, wanting to change the world, and helping to open the eyes of others to needs they had ignored.
I have thoroughly enjoyed every book Jen Turano has written, and I will read every book she writes in the future.
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This is an absolutely hysterical historical romantic comedy!
This wonderful story can easily be renamed Poppy’s Madcap Adventures. It kept me laughing from start to finish.
I fell in love with Poppy and her unconventional way of moving through high society from the beginning. Reading the reactions of “proper” society people was just as amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how many of the other characters developed and came into their own as the story progressed.
It wouldn’t be a Jen Turano novel if there weren’t high society ladies carrying around pistols. I love how she always manages to write such quirky characters that it fits with the story though. The other tidbit that I’ve come to expect from this author are funny animal scenes. In this story they were at least about typical household pets.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
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Enjoyable light-hearted reading...
Diamond in the Rough
American Heiresses #2
By Jen Turano
Miss Poppy Garrison is in her first New York Season in exchange for her grandmother's help for the financial difficulties in which her family has been caught up in through no fault of their own. There is just one little problem, Poppy has absolutely no idea how to behave among the New York Four Hundred, much to her grandmother's dismay.
With her future on the line, Poppy seems unable to keep herself from one social mishap after another and is in desperate need of assistance. Reginald Blackburn, who is assisting his cousin - Charles Wynn, Ninth Earl of Lonsdale - in his search for a wife, is enlisted by Viola Van Rensselaer in tutoring Poppy in what she needs to know. Reginald is a no-nonsense type person, who to keep the title hunting American heiresses, at bay has concealed his identity as the second son of a duke. He is always up for a challenge and unfortunately Poppy just might be a challenge he is unable to overcome. She's everything he doesn't like in a young outspoken, exuberant, and willful - and if he's not careful she just may turn his world upside down.
Diamond in the Rough is, like most if not of Jen Turano's works a fun read. Poppy is a walking disaster in the eyes of society but she tries her best to make the most of her current situation. And of course, there is a bit danger involved that seemingly points to someone deliberately "helping" Poppy's missteps occur. But what's a lady to do when she finds herself out her element? Well if you are Poppy Garrison you just do the best you can and accept the blame for what goes wrong.
If you like light-hearted historical fiction this is a most delightful read. Though this is the second book in the American Heiresses series it can easily be read on its own and thoroughly enjoyed. Poppy is a fun character who is caring and would be a most unique friend. Reginald is interesting seeing himself one way while those around him see something else and Poppy just might be the best thing to happen to him.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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ife can be stressful, overwhelming, and complicated sometimes. That’s why I often like to choose a book that will take me away from all the stress and let me read something lighthearted, and fun. Jen Turano is probably one of my favorite authors for escapes such as these. Her newest book, Diamond in the Rough, is definitely a gem. If you’re looking for comedy, this book has it in so many aspects. If you’re looking for romance, this book has it as well in a sweet, clean way. If you’re looking for incredible, lighthearted plots, then this is absolutely a book you should read. And as bonuses it includes a son of a duke, dogs, etiquette lessons, and a mystery as well. It’s a fun filled escape into a plot that never gets dull and always has some hilarious event happening. I highly recommend it everyone who needs a break from seriousness.
I recommend this book to any one who enjoys humor, comedy, fun, and historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Marvelous mayhem. As I always say, cheer up, read a Jen Turano book!
1885. Perfectly capable Poppy leaves her parents horse farm to spend a Season with her socially fashionable Grandmother of the Four Hundred. A Grandmother determined that Poppy will be considered a Diamond of the first water. Her Propensity for mishaps will of course keep you in stitches, rolling on the floor laughing, then in awww for the sweetness and heart of these characters.
Reginald is there from England to help his cousin find a suitable bride. He is conscripted by Poppy's Grandmother to teach Poppy how to behave properly in society, something very necessary for her to be considered as a bride in England's Social circles. Sweet people struggling to make their way, and never a dull moment with Poppy around. She can ride, run and shoot em up with the best. Not valuable traits to those in Society. But maybe its time for Society's rules to change. Poppy has her own kind of influence. As always, an excellent read!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
#DiamondInTheRough #NetGalley #JenTurano #BooksYouCanFeeGoodAbout #5Stars #ChristianHistorical
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I’ve had the pleasure of reading all of Jen Turano’s books to date, and can honestly say that she is one of my very favorite historical fiction authors. That being said, this review will probably have a bit of bias. I’ve been hooked since reading my first of her books (which was actually her second published work) and have yet to be disappointed. Though I’ve greatly enjoyed them all, I have had some favorites here and there, and this one definitely falls into that category!
As always, Ms. Turano kept me in stitches from the first few pages all the way through! I would frequently look up and find my husband trying to read over my shoulder and find out what was so funny! I couldn’t help but love Poppy’s character and her penchant for finding herself in the midst of unusual circumstances - situations that are rarely of her own making, but she jumps in with both feet. I adored her unique way of looking at things, enjoyment of life, and determination. She’s quirky and kind, but also stubborn and sometimes a bit reckless. I noticed that the author’s portrayal of society changed a bit during this book, as well. It isn’t a kind place, most of the time, with gossiping, conniving, and sabotage being things that are clearly shown. Which highlights even more the kindness in Poppy’s character, as well as several other characters we’re given the opportunity to meet. I also quite liked Reginald, with his faux stuffiness and determination to help his cousin. I loved the teasing he and Poppy regularly engage in, as well as getting to see Poppy and other characters through his eyes. I do have to say, that there were a couple characters that surprised me! When the book began, I wasn’t expecting to like them, but over the course of the story, I found them becoming some of my favorites.
And of course, there’s a bit of intrigue mixed in, which kept me curious and hurrying to finish the book before bedtime. Though I wasn’t overly surprised at “whodunit,” the reasoning behind all of the shenanigans wasn’t quite what I had anticipated.
I will definitely be rereading this book and am anxiously anticipating what I’m hoping will be Beatrix’s book!
*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
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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.
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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.
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This is book two in the American Heiresses series, however it is a stand alone book. Jen Turano is one of my favorite authors. Her books are full of history, humor, drama, romance and so much more. I can not wait for the next in this series.
Poppy Garrison is a unique lady, and full of spunk. She finds herself in some sticky situations. Reginald Blackburn is handsome, brooding and in charge of helping Poppy with her etiquette.
I love the writing style of Jen Turano. She has such a fun, spunky sense of humor that make her books so enjoyable to read.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Jen Turano has crafted a delightful second book in her American Heiresses Series. Diamond in the Rough is certain to entertain and provide hours of reading pleasure. Jen Turano is an extremely gifted author who has an intricate grasp of the era. It's always a pleasure to read her books.
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