Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano

Review: My first impression of this book was 'ridiculous'. "Caught by Surprise" reads like the author was smirking the entire time she wrote it. I found it a bit much for the first few chapters, but I quickly got into the story line and was won over rather hastily by the back-and-forth banter between Gilbert and Temperence. I got the distinct impression that this book was never meant to be taken seriously and is completely meant to illicit under the breath chuckles and even groans throughout the entirety of it. Honestly, with characters named "Flowerdew" I highly doubt Ms Turano was aiming for a serious book.

Complete with guns being drawn in almost every chapter, paper-mache swords dipped in blood coloured paint, inept criminals and clumsy assassins, and a perky 'wallflower', this book is filled with wry humor. If nothing else, this book is guaranteed to lighten your day and give you a laugh.

In addition to its hilariously long winded and impractically formal dialogue and ridiculous scenes, "Caught by Surprise" has several rather insightful messages hidden amongst the mirth. There are some definite nudges about the effects of absentee parents and the responsibilities parents have to their children. As well, there were some rather deep and meaningful thoughts regarding marriage which I felt were surprisingly prudent considering the nature of the novel. These messages were slipped in quite seamlessly and added a degree of depth to this book that was otherwise absent.

I would definitely recommend this novel for a good laugh. It is indeed absolutely ridiculous but it is hilariously ridiculous. If you are in the mood for a 'tongue-in-cheek' book, then definitely pick this one up. You will not be disappointed with the humor nor the sweet love story.

Thank you to Graf-Martin Communications and to Baker Publishing Group for a copy of this novel

Back Cover: After years of hiding her true nature, Miss Temperance Flowerdew is finally enjoying freedom outside of the shadow of her relations, so the last thing she expected on her way to work was to be grabbed off the street by a stranger and put on a train bound for Chicago.

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 her abduction, they're spotted alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk.

Even though Gilbert is willing to propose marriage, Temperance is determined not to lose her newfound independence. But when the misunderstanding in Chicago escalates into a threat on her life, accepting Gilbert's help in solving the mystery may lead to more than she ever could have dreamed.