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Ladies of Distinction #4
A Match of Wits
Lively and Humorous Historical Romp from an Acclaimed Author
Two years ago, Zayne Beckett's departure from New York City to meet up with his almost-fiance caused Agatha Watson no small amount of grief. So he is the last person she wanted to stumble upon in her travels as a reporter with the New York Tribune. Looking worse for the wear, he clearly needs to be taken in hand and taken back East to his family. Even though she's over him, Agatha can't help feeling sorry for him and realizes she'll have to be the one to get the stubborn man back home.
Zayne has no desire to be taken anywhere. Content to sit and mope over his recent bad fortune and the desertion of his not-quite-fiance, he's prepared to drag his heels all the way back to New York. That is, until he and Agatha find themselves slipping back into the strangely enjoyable bickering and bantering of their old friendship.
It isn't until they arrive in New York City that Zayne realizes Agatha's determined nose for news has earned her a few enemies. When his attempts to repay her for helping him go sadly awry, Agatha proves herself just as stubborn as Zayne. Everyone else may think them a match, but nothing could be further from the truth--until Agatha finds herself in real trouble. Have these two stubborn, too-smart-for-their-own-good people been meant for each other all along?
Two years ago, Zayne Beckett's departure from New York City to meet up with his almost-fiance caused Agatha Watson no small amount of grief. So he is the last person she wanted to stumble upon in her travels as a reporter with the New York Tribune. Looking worse for the wear, he clearly needs to be taken in hand and taken back East to his family. Even though she's over him, Agatha can't help feeling sorry for him and realizes she'll have to be the one to get the stubborn man back home.
Zayne has no desire to be taken anywhere. Content to sit and mope over his recent bad fortune and the desertion of his not-quite-fiance, he's prepared to drag his heels all the way back to New York. That is, until he and Agatha find themselves slipping back into the strangely enjoyable bickering and bantering of their old friendship.
It isn't until they arrive in New York City that Zayne realizes Agatha's determined nose for news has earned her a few enemies. When his attempts to repay her for helping him go sadly awry, Agatha proves herself just as stubborn as Zayne. Everyone else may think them a match, but nothing could be further from the truth--until Agatha finds herself in real trouble. Have these two stubborn, too-smart-for-their-own-good people been meant for each other all along?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2014
136 people are currently reading
1721 people want to read
About the author
Jen Turano
31 books1,981 followersNamed One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com - https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoaut... , https://www.instagram.com/jenturanoau... or on Twitter at JenTurano@JenTurano.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
August 10, 2016
Colorado & New York, 1883
Oh my stars, THIS BOOK. THIS SERIES. THIS AUTHOR.
I'm sorry, but I really need to let out a good dose of gushing and babbling over this book, because it was just that good. I've been a bit more strict with stars this years, and haven't awarded that many fives, but this one, oh, this one cannot get any less! I loved every single minute I spent reading this novel. I laughed hysterically, shook my head in wonder, sighed soulfully, and generally just had a huge, silly grin on my face the entire time I read.
"'I hope you won't take offense at this, Mr. Beckett, but you are, without a shadow of a doubt, an idiot.'
To Agatha's surprise, one corner of Zayne's mouth tugged up. 'Since you've suddenly taken to insulting me, Mr. Blackheart, don't you think you should call me Zayne?'
Mr. Blackheart nodded. 'Fine. Zayne, then, but you're still an idiot.'
'And?' Zayne prompted.
'And what? I believe calling you an idiot sums everything up nicely.'"
The dialogue is like this the whole time, and the whole thing is just completely funny, witty, and charming. It would make such a fun play!
I had been eagerly awaiting Agatha's story ever since meeting her in A Change of Fortune, because she's always been my favourite. In truth, all four heroines are very much alike, and Agatha was sometimes hard to differentiate from Eliza, Arabella, or Felicia, but for some reason I've always preferred her and simply couldn't wait to read her story. I was expecting something great, something grand, an amazing finish to this amazing series, and...I got it. A Match of Wits has been everything I hoped for and more, and I enjoyed myself tremendously.
AND ZAYNE!! Ohhh, I have been madly in love with Zayne since A Change of Fortune and he was so insanely cute in this book!!! Adorably clueless, naïve, but always so chivalrous and gentlemanly ;) Argh, he was just to die for. I LOVE HIM!!!
And to be honest, I often don't understand why I love these books so much, because they are so ridiculous, make no sense, and are sometimes just plain silly. I mean... I mean, let me make a list of all the crazy and unusual elements this book has:
*The heroine has a pet pig. A pet PIG, who understands what the word P-I-G is!
*She brings said pig everywhere. In shops, in carriages, at the New York Tribune offices, at a gold mine...EVERYWHERE. The heck.
*Ladies, as is always the case in a Turano novel, end up in jail after a failed attempt at investigating and/or helping in a dangerous situation.
*Agatha is always disguising herself as a man as though transgendering were an everyday occurrence for her (she has trousers and shirts and a box full of fake whiskers and mustaches always on hand!!!).
*She flounces to back slums and brothels and the like, usually in above-mentioned disguise.
*Her mother has a shotgun and doesn't hesitate to take it out and/or threaten to shoot people with it for mere trifles (did I forget to mention that they live on Fifth Avenue in New York during the Gilded Age? Just...WHAT IS SHE DOING WITH A SHOTGUN AT A BALL???).
*Agatha, naturally, possesses a few pistols, always carries them on her person, and is a capital shot (okay, not, she's actually quite a bad shot, but STILL.).
*Zayne has a lame leg over the course of the entire novel, and must sometimes travel in this weird-looking and dangerous-sounding cart-thingie invented by Charlotte (remember the heroine from Gentleman of Her Dreams? I was wondering what had happened to her! Well!), which usually results in someone suffering minor injuries.
*Agatha has a bodyguard (who was hired by detective extraordinaire Theodore Wilder for the sole purpose to make sure she doesn'tkill herself get murdered), who doesn't hesitate to burst into her bathroom while she's taking a bath when he hears a noise at the window.
*There is a wonderful (but totally implausible) 8-year-old girl named Piper (Zayne's niece) who untangles every major love problem, gives sound relationship advice as though she had a PhD in Understanding Love, and is generally just smarter than everyone else. I loved her insanely, but she made no sense.
The plot was incredibly far-fetched, the characters acted way too modernly, and the whole thing was ridiculously crazy, but…it’s Jen Turano, so it worked to perfection. I didn’t care about any of the points I brought above. Nothing bothered me majorly and I was able to overlook a ton of things I usually can’t overlook. The dialogue is just too superb, and the characters way too attaching.
”Theodore sent him a rather pitying look. ‘You’ve lost your mind. Agatha isn’t a lady who can be taken in hand, and marriage certainly won’t keep her out of mischief.’
‘Of course it will. Married women don’t run amok. They’re content to stay home and mind the children.’
‘You do remember that Gloria is your mother, don’t you? She still runs amok upon occasion.’
‘My mother, bless her heart, has always been rather odd.’
‘And your sister? Even though Arabella is happily married to me, she continues to enjoy a bit of mischief.
‘Oddity runs in the family, at least as pertains to the Beckett women.’
‘And evidently one man.’”
I've been loving these characters to bits and pieces ever since they were introduced in A Change of Fortune, and I simply can’t bear the thought of reading a new book by this author that won’t be featuring them in it (although I’ve no doubt that her new set of characters must be just as delightful!). We NEED, absolutely NEED, a book about Francis and Drusilla (I mean, you can’t just leave them hanging like that, can you? CAN YOU???), a series about all three Murdock brothers (especially Jeffrey – love him!!), and a series about Piper, Lily, and Grace (come on, they would make wonderful heroines, just as crazily loveable as Eliza, Arabella, Felicia and Agatha! We all know it!). Please, it needs to HAPPEN. SOON.
A Match of Wits was a completely wonderful and delightful farce that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone. It was hilarious and over-the-top silly, but it also had beautiful, emotional moments that really made you feel for the characters, and overall this entire series won’t fail to make you smile, laugh, and sigh rapturously (well maybe not “rapturously”, but I know I do!).
Absolutely loved it, and I’ll be wanting a re-read of the entire series soon!!
Oh my stars, THIS BOOK. THIS SERIES. THIS AUTHOR.
I'm sorry, but I really need to let out a good dose of gushing and babbling over this book, because it was just that good. I've been a bit more strict with stars this years, and haven't awarded that many fives, but this one, oh, this one cannot get any less! I loved every single minute I spent reading this novel. I laughed hysterically, shook my head in wonder, sighed soulfully, and generally just had a huge, silly grin on my face the entire time I read.
"'I hope you won't take offense at this, Mr. Beckett, but you are, without a shadow of a doubt, an idiot.'
To Agatha's surprise, one corner of Zayne's mouth tugged up. 'Since you've suddenly taken to insulting me, Mr. Blackheart, don't you think you should call me Zayne?'
Mr. Blackheart nodded. 'Fine. Zayne, then, but you're still an idiot.'
'And?' Zayne prompted.
'And what? I believe calling you an idiot sums everything up nicely.'"
The dialogue is like this the whole time, and the whole thing is just completely funny, witty, and charming. It would make such a fun play!
I had been eagerly awaiting Agatha's story ever since meeting her in A Change of Fortune, because she's always been my favourite. In truth, all four heroines are very much alike, and Agatha was sometimes hard to differentiate from Eliza, Arabella, or Felicia, but for some reason I've always preferred her and simply couldn't wait to read her story. I was expecting something great, something grand, an amazing finish to this amazing series, and...I got it. A Match of Wits has been everything I hoped for and more, and I enjoyed myself tremendously.
AND ZAYNE!! Ohhh, I have been madly in love with Zayne since A Change of Fortune and he was so insanely cute in this book!!! Adorably clueless, naïve, but always so chivalrous and gentlemanly ;) Argh, he was just to die for. I LOVE HIM!!!
And to be honest, I often don't understand why I love these books so much, because they are so ridiculous, make no sense, and are sometimes just plain silly. I mean... I mean, let me make a list of all the crazy and unusual elements this book has:
*The heroine has a pet pig. A pet PIG, who understands what the word P-I-G is!
*She brings said pig everywhere. In shops, in carriages, at the New York Tribune offices, at a gold mine...EVERYWHERE. The heck.
*Ladies, as is always the case in a Turano novel, end up in jail after a failed attempt at investigating and/or helping in a dangerous situation.
*Agatha is always disguising herself as a man as though transgendering were an everyday occurrence for her (she has trousers and shirts and a box full of fake whiskers and mustaches always on hand!!!).
*She flounces to back slums and brothels and the like, usually in above-mentioned disguise.
*Her mother has a shotgun and doesn't hesitate to take it out and/or threaten to shoot people with it for mere trifles (did I forget to mention that they live on Fifth Avenue in New York during the Gilded Age? Just...WHAT IS SHE DOING WITH A SHOTGUN AT A BALL???).
*Agatha, naturally, possesses a few pistols, always carries them on her person, and is a capital shot (okay, not, she's actually quite a bad shot, but STILL.).
*Zayne has a lame leg over the course of the entire novel, and must sometimes travel in this weird-looking and dangerous-sounding cart-thingie invented by Charlotte (remember the heroine from Gentleman of Her Dreams? I was wondering what had happened to her! Well!), which usually results in someone suffering minor injuries.
*Agatha has a bodyguard (who was hired by detective extraordinaire Theodore Wilder for the sole purpose to make sure she doesn't
*There is a wonderful (but totally implausible) 8-year-old girl named Piper (Zayne's niece) who untangles every major love problem, gives sound relationship advice as though she had a PhD in Understanding Love, and is generally just smarter than everyone else. I loved her insanely, but she made no sense.
The plot was incredibly far-fetched, the characters acted way too modernly, and the whole thing was ridiculously crazy, but…it’s Jen Turano, so it worked to perfection. I didn’t care about any of the points I brought above. Nothing bothered me majorly and I was able to overlook a ton of things I usually can’t overlook. The dialogue is just too superb, and the characters way too attaching.
”Theodore sent him a rather pitying look. ‘You’ve lost your mind. Agatha isn’t a lady who can be taken in hand, and marriage certainly won’t keep her out of mischief.’
‘Of course it will. Married women don’t run amok. They’re content to stay home and mind the children.’
‘You do remember that Gloria is your mother, don’t you? She still runs amok upon occasion.’
‘My mother, bless her heart, has always been rather odd.’
‘And your sister? Even though Arabella is happily married to me, she continues to enjoy a bit of mischief.
‘Oddity runs in the family, at least as pertains to the Beckett women.’
‘And evidently one man.’”
I've been loving these characters to bits and pieces ever since they were introduced in A Change of Fortune, and I simply can’t bear the thought of reading a new book by this author that won’t be featuring them in it (although I’ve no doubt that her new set of characters must be just as delightful!). We NEED, absolutely NEED, a book about Francis and Drusilla (I mean, you can’t just leave them hanging like that, can you? CAN YOU???), a series about all three Murdock brothers (especially Jeffrey – love him!!), and a series about Piper, Lily, and Grace (come on, they would make wonderful heroines, just as crazily loveable as Eliza, Arabella, Felicia and Agatha! We all know it!). Please, it needs to HAPPEN. SOON.
A Match of Wits was a completely wonderful and delightful farce that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone. It was hilarious and over-the-top silly, but it also had beautiful, emotional moments that really made you feel for the characters, and overall this entire series won’t fail to make you smile, laugh, and sigh rapturously (well maybe not “rapturously”, but I know I do!).
Absolutely loved it, and I’ll be wanting a re-read of the entire series soon!!
April 15, 2020
How To Write A Ladies of Distinction Novel In 7 Easy Steps:
1. Boy meets girl.
2. Girl annoys boy.
3. Boy starts to feel possessive of girl.
4. Girl ends up in prison.
5. Boy proposes, badly.
6. Girl finds herself in danger, either because of her own actions or because of the boy's. Probably her own.
7. Boy proposes again and they live happily ever after.
After watching Agatha and Zayne make googly eyes at one another for three books, I shipped them harder than their respective mothers ship them.
But by the end, I was rooting for Agatha to end up with literally anyone else.
WHAT THE HECK, ZAYNE.
Zayne...is a moron. All the women in his life tell him this. They then make the mistake of excusing behavior on the grounds that he "doesn't understand women." Well, geesh, ya think?
But it isn't just that Zayne doesn't understand women. He doesn't understand himself and I got sooooooooooo tired of him being like 'Well, sure I'm fond of Agatha! But love? Nahhhh. Lemme go propose again.'
To the book's...credit? it tones down the 'boy gets super possessive of girl' trope so prevalent - and worrisome - in the other books. But it is still there.
Anyway, besides the main couple, I just overall found this book less enjoyable. The women remain strong but I only find so many jokes about packing heat amusing. (That's not true, actually. Every time a female character strapped a pistol to her garter I inwardly grinned.)
The book attempts to take the 'strong woman' theme deeper. Agatha does not need a man to rescue her, she is the white knight, she advances their relationship etc. etc. And I feel like I should have appreciated that. It 'broke' with the mold. But at the same time, she is forced to continually take that role because Zayne is such a pushover.
Gosh, I'm disappointed in him.
Grayson irritated the heck out of me for being far too aggressive. Zayne swings too far in the other direction. (Both suck at proposing.)
I really did love Piper. But at the same time, one must balance her with all the babies. This book tries to revel in the happy endings of all the other characters and it just didn't go over well with me. It felt so...trite. Expected? "Ah! It is been two years. They popped out a kid. Look how happy their marriage is!" I don't know. For some reason I expected more. I think it was occasionally the author does bypass a stereotype...
But it doesn't matter.
Zayne is an idiot.
The pig got on my nerves.
I still love Agatha.
This book would have gotten one star from me except that I enjoyed the writing style. It kept me engaged.
The end.
1. Boy meets girl.
2. Girl annoys boy.
3. Boy starts to feel possessive of girl.
4. Girl ends up in prison.
5. Boy proposes, badly.
6. Girl finds herself in danger, either because of her own actions or because of the boy's. Probably her own.
7. Boy proposes again and they live happily ever after.
After watching Agatha and Zayne make googly eyes at one another for three books, I shipped them harder than their respective mothers ship them.
But by the end, I was rooting for Agatha to end up with literally anyone else.
WHAT THE HECK, ZAYNE.
Zayne...is a moron. All the women in his life tell him this. They then make the mistake of excusing behavior on the grounds that he "doesn't understand women." Well, geesh, ya think?
But it isn't just that Zayne doesn't understand women. He doesn't understand himself and I got sooooooooooo tired of him being like 'Well, sure I'm fond of Agatha! But love? Nahhhh. Lemme go propose again.'
To the book's...credit? it tones down the 'boy gets super possessive of girl' trope so prevalent - and worrisome - in the other books. But it is still there.
Anyway, besides the main couple, I just overall found this book less enjoyable. The women remain strong but I only find so many jokes about packing heat amusing. (That's not true, actually. Every time a female character strapped a pistol to her garter I inwardly grinned.)
The book attempts to take the 'strong woman' theme deeper. Agatha does not need a man to rescue her, she is the white knight, she advances their relationship etc. etc. And I feel like I should have appreciated that. It 'broke' with the mold. But at the same time, she is forced to continually take that role because Zayne is such a pushover.
Gosh, I'm disappointed in him.
Grayson irritated the heck out of me for being far too aggressive. Zayne swings too far in the other direction. (Both suck at proposing.)
I really did love Piper. But at the same time, one must balance her with all the babies. This book tries to revel in the happy endings of all the other characters and it just didn't go over well with me. It felt so...trite. Expected? "Ah! It is been two years. They popped out a kid. Look how happy their marriage is!" I don't know. For some reason I expected more. I think it was occasionally the author does bypass a stereotype...
But it doesn't matter.
Zayne is an idiot.
The pig got on my nerves.
I still love Agatha.
This book would have gotten one star from me except that I enjoyed the writing style. It kept me engaged.
The end.
January 29, 2021
Cute conclusion to the series. Lots of laughs as expected.
July 25, 2014
This is one of the hardest reviews I have had to write since I started writing reviews. I normally finish a book before passing judgment, but I just couldn’t with this book. This will be my first book from Bethany House that I have written a negative review on in a long time (they are one of my favorite publishers) as well as the first review I have ever written on a book I didn’t finish.
The first chapter of the book had me laughing. I mean, who wouldn’t laugh at chasing a pig through a hotel? Agatha also seemed like a funny character whom I would love. After all, she was spirited and was always causing trouble. How much better could it get?
Sadly for me, this book quickly went from funny to ridiculous. Agatha went from being sprinted to being over the top. I might have been able to accept this book as a comedy (as I like over the top shows like Gilligan’s Island), but then they introduced a serious character, and that ruined it.
I would be willing to try this author again, as I can tell she has some talent, and I have heard some of her other books are better.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
The first chapter of the book had me laughing. I mean, who wouldn’t laugh at chasing a pig through a hotel? Agatha also seemed like a funny character whom I would love. After all, she was spirited and was always causing trouble. How much better could it get?
Sadly for me, this book quickly went from funny to ridiculous. Agatha went from being sprinted to being over the top. I might have been able to accept this book as a comedy (as I like over the top shows like Gilligan’s Island), but then they introduced a serious character, and that ruined it.
I would be willing to try this author again, as I can tell she has some talent, and I have heard some of her other books are better.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
December 23, 2024
Absurd antics. Silly shenanigans. Comical capers. Jen Turano's Ladies of Distinction series is one-part Gilded Age satire and two parts situation comedy. Readers in need of a literary escape will relish this light-hearted lark of a series certain to evoke smiles and snort-laughs aplenty.
If you're in the mood for fun comfort reads, allow me to introduce the Ladies of Distinction! You're sure to have a delightful time in their company.
📚 Ladies of Distinction series
📖 "A Change of Fortune" (Book 1)
📖 “A Most Peculiar Circumstance" (Book 2)
📖 “A Talent for Trouble" (Book 3)
📖 “A Match of Wits" (Book 4)
If you're in the mood for fun comfort reads, allow me to introduce the Ladies of Distinction! You're sure to have a delightful time in their company.
📚 Ladies of Distinction series
📖 "A Change of Fortune" (Book 1)
📖 “A Most Peculiar Circumstance" (Book 2)
📖 “A Talent for Trouble" (Book 3)
📖 “A Match of Wits" (Book 4)
May 23, 2014
I think that I would read just about anything from Jen Turano because of her writing style. I love the way she writes. I smile over the way she phrases things. This book starts out, “Sometimes, no matter how independent and self-assured a young lady believes herself to be, certain situations demand a good dose of screaming.” I was hooked and knew it was going to be another delightful book.
If you are looking for a light-hearted book, this is for you…in fact the whole series is delightful. The characters are well-developed and so fun. Agatha is an adventurous sort who always gets into mischief and danger though not intentionally. Things just sort of happen to her. Questions like “What were you thinking letting her get near dynamite?” are not uncommon around Agatha. It’s not uncommon for her to end up in the seamy part of town or even in jail.
Zayne is really slow, okay dense, when it comes to understanding his feelings and ends up needing and taking love advice from his eight year old niece. It’s really quite humorous.
One of the main characters is a pig named Matilda. Even she is developed well. :)
There is lots of action and danger in the book….gold mines, explosions, assassins, a runaway p-I-g. It makes for a great mystery and a fast read. I would highly recommend this book and this series. Try it. I think you’ll be hooked too.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book for the purpose of this review.
Book 1 – A Change of Fortune
Book 2 – A Most Peculiar Circumstance
Book 3 – A Talent for Trouble
Book 4 – A Match of Wits
If you are looking for a light-hearted book, this is for you…in fact the whole series is delightful. The characters are well-developed and so fun. Agatha is an adventurous sort who always gets into mischief and danger though not intentionally. Things just sort of happen to her. Questions like “What were you thinking letting her get near dynamite?” are not uncommon around Agatha. It’s not uncommon for her to end up in the seamy part of town or even in jail.
Zayne is really slow, okay dense, when it comes to understanding his feelings and ends up needing and taking love advice from his eight year old niece. It’s really quite humorous.
One of the main characters is a pig named Matilda. Even she is developed well. :)
There is lots of action and danger in the book….gold mines, explosions, assassins, a runaway p-I-g. It makes for a great mystery and a fast read. I would highly recommend this book and this series. Try it. I think you’ll be hooked too.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book for the purpose of this review.
Book 1 – A Change of Fortune
Book 2 – A Most Peculiar Circumstance
Book 3 – A Talent for Trouble
Book 4 – A Match of Wits
March 23, 2023
Listening to these almost a decade later, and they are still such FUN books! I’m not as into the crazy independent woman thing, but they’re still hilarious adventures.
Currently reading
June 27, 2017Really looking forward to this book! :)
May 24, 2020
I'm so sad to be done with the series, but this was a wonderful ending to it! A series I will definitely re-read through life!
August 12, 2015
Another great one by Jen Turano! Had me laughing until I cried in several parts!
And have I ever mentioned how much I love Mr. Blackheart??
And have I ever mentioned how much I love Mr. Blackheart??
October 10, 2014
For fun things and more reviews visit The Accidental Reader
Well this was one cute funny ride. I mean, I never knew NY city was like that.
When I think of historical romance I usually think of dukes and seasons and courting and all wonderfull things but I never thought what happens in the USA around that time. Maybe because I'm ignorant, mostly because I didn't care.
But this book was a wonderful discovery, it was funny and well written and I liked Agatha and Zayne and thier interaction. Agatha was such a busy-body with crazy ideas she drove me insane but I liked her still.
And Zayne with all his brooding smar ass hero attitude was fun. I just loved it!
Then, why just 3.5 stars and not 4?
First of all, and spirited as Agatha was I kinda felt it was a bit over the top (which, yes, made me hold back in half a star) but what disturbed me even more was the religion- "God, and god and god" and sometimes "the lord".
I do not mean to disrespect anybody, each person is entitled to his/hers believes and all. And though I am not a religious person I am not exactly a not religious person if that makes sense?
I do believe in god, but I also believe in myself and in the people around me. Anyhow, it is not my intention to talk about religion.
What I'm trying to say was that I felt that religion was a big issue in the book so very very big it was almost suffocating. Starting with Agatha's belief and Zayne's lost one which he retrieves by the end of the book.
So yeah, that part was not for me. I did however love the feminist spirit of the book and all the fun moments.
A review copy was provided by Bethany House through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Well this was one cute funny ride. I mean, I never knew NY city was like that.
When I think of historical romance I usually think of dukes and seasons and courting and all wonderfull things but I never thought what happens in the USA around that time. Maybe because I'm ignorant, mostly because I didn't care.
But this book was a wonderful discovery, it was funny and well written and I liked Agatha and Zayne and thier interaction. Agatha was such a busy-body with crazy ideas she drove me insane but I liked her still.
And Zayne with all his brooding smar ass hero attitude was fun. I just loved it!
Then, why just 3.5 stars and not 4?
First of all, and spirited as Agatha was I kinda felt it was a bit over the top (which, yes, made me hold back in half a star) but what disturbed me even more was the religion- "God, and god and god" and sometimes "the lord".
I do not mean to disrespect anybody, each person is entitled to his/hers believes and all. And though I am not a religious person I am not exactly a not religious person if that makes sense?
I do believe in god, but I also believe in myself and in the people around me. Anyhow, it is not my intention to talk about religion.
What I'm trying to say was that I felt that religion was a big issue in the book so very very big it was almost suffocating. Starting with Agatha's belief and Zayne's lost one which he retrieves by the end of the book.
So yeah, that part was not for me. I did however love the feminist spirit of the book and all the fun moments.
A review copy was provided by Bethany House through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2014
Aaah! This book had me laughing SO hard! Agatha is exactly the same with her tendency to wind up in trouble, and Zayne enjoys annoying her as much as ever. I really enjoyed hearing the conclusion to their story after seeing their relationship progress through the other books in this series.
One character I enjoyed seeing in the spotlight more this time was the mysterious henchman- Mr Blackheart. Assigned to watch over Agatha when threats on her life begin to be made, his annoyance but fierce protectiveness over her is super cute and had me laughing many times. "Paid companion" Drusilla also kept me in stitches. ;)
This story had an intense plot with lots of mystery, keeping readers guessing from the get-go.
I loved hearing about all the previous characters as they made appearances once again; Piper has a slightly larger role in this story than in the second and third stories, and her relationship with "Uncle Zayne" was adorable.
The level of intelligence shown by the P-I-G was pretty unbelievable and slightly tiring at times; but then again, I've grown to expect the out-of-the-ordinary in Jen's work so I got used to it and wouldn't say it took away from the story at all. ;)
Also, I was glad I had been prepared for Agatha's independent ways over the rest of the series, otherwise I would have been a bit more annoyed at how stubborn she gets (especially with men). It ended up nicely, though. ;)
The continual appearance of "Charlotte's Invention" throughout the story was probably what had me laughing hardest, and most often! :D
I recommend this to all historical fiction fans who love a good hearty laugh and sweet/clean romance!
One character I enjoyed seeing in the spotlight more this time was the mysterious henchman- Mr Blackheart. Assigned to watch over Agatha when threats on her life begin to be made, his annoyance but fierce protectiveness over her is super cute and had me laughing many times. "Paid companion" Drusilla also kept me in stitches. ;)
This story had an intense plot with lots of mystery, keeping readers guessing from the get-go.
I loved hearing about all the previous characters as they made appearances once again; Piper has a slightly larger role in this story than in the second and third stories, and her relationship with "Uncle Zayne" was adorable.
The level of intelligence shown by the P-I-G was pretty unbelievable and slightly tiring at times; but then again, I've grown to expect the out-of-the-ordinary in Jen's work so I got used to it and wouldn't say it took away from the story at all. ;)
Also, I was glad I had been prepared for Agatha's independent ways over the rest of the series, otherwise I would have been a bit more annoyed at how stubborn she gets (especially with men). It ended up nicely, though. ;)
The continual appearance of "Charlotte's Invention" throughout the story was probably what had me laughing hardest, and most often! :D
I recommend this to all historical fiction fans who love a good hearty laugh and sweet/clean romance!
December 13, 2015
After reading the previous book in the series: “A Talent for Trouble” I was interested to see what happened with Agatha and Zayne's story. The last book had left off with Zayne traveling to go visit and marry his almost-fiancee.
Agatha was still her snoopy, quirky self. A young woman ready for adventure and a good story for her job at the New York Tribune. It that sense of adventure that gets her into trouble. We meet her as she travels through the west with a body guard and a companion, trying to stay alive and away from New York until the person responsible for the death threats to her is caught. It is during those travels that she meets Zayne – abandoned, defeated, and unmarried. Seeing her old friend in such a state, she decides to take over and set his life back on track, much to Zayne's annoyance.
It's a fun idea. Unfortunately as the book progressed, I found myself less and less interested in the storyline. Twists kept coming up to throw everything into chaos and unfortunately, many of them didn't feel very realistic to the story.
I had actually liked Zayne's character after the last book in the series but in reading this one, I found him less appealing the more I read. He was stubborn, rude, and more blind in the area of romance than any male character I've ever read about. When he finally did realize his feelings for Agatha, the moment kept being dragged out and put off until later in the book. Misunderstandings arose, old fiancee's came back on the scene, and nothing was resolved until the last chapter. It was too much drama to the point where things get ridiculous and far fetched. It was like an over-dramatic, bad episode of Downton Abbey. So yeah, anyone who likes that show and that sort of drama would probably enjoy this book. Me... not so much.
I had a friend who read this book and it was the first Turano book she'd ever picked up. She couldn't get through it and I quite understand. If this is your first Jen Turano book and you found it difficult to get into, please don't give up on the author. I have read her other books and loved them. I would recommend trying her book, “After a Fashion.” It was comical, cute, and perfectly wonderful. The storyline was great and it's also one of my favorites.
Agatha was still her snoopy, quirky self. A young woman ready for adventure and a good story for her job at the New York Tribune. It that sense of adventure that gets her into trouble. We meet her as she travels through the west with a body guard and a companion, trying to stay alive and away from New York until the person responsible for the death threats to her is caught. It is during those travels that she meets Zayne – abandoned, defeated, and unmarried. Seeing her old friend in such a state, she decides to take over and set his life back on track, much to Zayne's annoyance.
It's a fun idea. Unfortunately as the book progressed, I found myself less and less interested in the storyline. Twists kept coming up to throw everything into chaos and unfortunately, many of them didn't feel very realistic to the story.
I had actually liked Zayne's character after the last book in the series but in reading this one, I found him less appealing the more I read. He was stubborn, rude, and more blind in the area of romance than any male character I've ever read about. When he finally did realize his feelings for Agatha, the moment kept being dragged out and put off until later in the book. Misunderstandings arose, old fiancee's came back on the scene, and nothing was resolved until the last chapter. It was too much drama to the point where things get ridiculous and far fetched. It was like an over-dramatic, bad episode of Downton Abbey. So yeah, anyone who likes that show and that sort of drama would probably enjoy this book. Me... not so much.
I had a friend who read this book and it was the first Turano book she'd ever picked up. She couldn't get through it and I quite understand. If this is your first Jen Turano book and you found it difficult to get into, please don't give up on the author. I have read her other books and loved them. I would recommend trying her book, “After a Fashion.” It was comical, cute, and perfectly wonderful. The storyline was great and it's also one of my favorites.
July 16, 2014
First Line:
"Sometimes, no matter how independent and self-assured a young lady believes herself to be, certain situations demand a good dose of screaming."
My thoughts:
The title of this novel fits the characters perfectly. A Match of Wits is full of wit and hilarity. You can tell that from just the first sentence, can't you?
Every once and awhile, I'll review a book that is a tad...boring. This, however, is not one of those books. Jen Turano's writing voice is one of my absolute favorites. In fact, I'm going to browse Amazon for a couple of her other novels that I haven't yet had the pleasure to read.
This novel has romance, humor, a layer of suspense, and a pig named Matilda. Honestly, what more could you want?
Agatha Watson has appeared in Turano's previous novels, and she is a heroine to love and giggle over. She's excellent at finding trouble which makes her a joy to follow. Zayne Beckett is the perfect guy for Agatha. He matches her wit (hence the title). I can't give too much away, but as Zayne uncovers the art of romance, I guarantee you will laugh. He is such a guy.
Another reason I love this book is because it breaks the rules. Don't use too many adverbs? Well, Turano uses them...and they fit her style perfectly! She's a skilled writer, one that I've grown to respect.
I cannot wait to see what she releases next!
*I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
"Sometimes, no matter how independent and self-assured a young lady believes herself to be, certain situations demand a good dose of screaming."
My thoughts:
The title of this novel fits the characters perfectly. A Match of Wits is full of wit and hilarity. You can tell that from just the first sentence, can't you?
Every once and awhile, I'll review a book that is a tad...boring. This, however, is not one of those books. Jen Turano's writing voice is one of my absolute favorites. In fact, I'm going to browse Amazon for a couple of her other novels that I haven't yet had the pleasure to read.
This novel has romance, humor, a layer of suspense, and a pig named Matilda. Honestly, what more could you want?
Agatha Watson has appeared in Turano's previous novels, and she is a heroine to love and giggle over. She's excellent at finding trouble which makes her a joy to follow. Zayne Beckett is the perfect guy for Agatha. He matches her wit (hence the title). I can't give too much away, but as Zayne uncovers the art of romance, I guarantee you will laugh. He is such a guy.
Another reason I love this book is because it breaks the rules. Don't use too many adverbs? Well, Turano uses them...and they fit her style perfectly! She's a skilled writer, one that I've grown to respect.
I cannot wait to see what she releases next!
*I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
June 14, 2014
Jen Turano delivers again in this witty book! Agatha Watson, having been sent West with a body guard (Spoiler alert: two body guards!) hasn't seen Zayne Beckett in two years. Although she had strong feelings for him, he was engaged to another woman. Agatha sends back articles to New York, for the newspaper but someone there is trying to kill her. She comes across a filthy mountain man, who turns out to be Zayne, with a serious leg injury that has left him with a limp. She determines to get him back home, and does.
Zayne was dumped by his fiancee. He doesn't want to go home, but when he and Agatha and the guards are attacked at his mine, he heads back East with his old friend, Agatha. As will the other Jen Turano novels there are enough shenanigans to keep the reader continuously turning those pages forward.
Very entertaining. A little different from the previous books in that there is much more dialogue and far less description of the various settings.
I read this as a NetGalley download and am under no requirement to post a positive review.
Zayne was dumped by his fiancee. He doesn't want to go home, but when he and Agatha and the guards are attacked at his mine, he heads back East with his old friend, Agatha. As will the other Jen Turano novels there are enough shenanigans to keep the reader continuously turning those pages forward.
Very entertaining. A little different from the previous books in that there is much more dialogue and far less description of the various settings.
I read this as a NetGalley download and am under no requirement to post a positive review.
June 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this series. There were times I would find myself chuckling out loud at the witty banter back and forth between the characters.
July 30, 2014
Agatha Watson is always up for an adventure, and that is just what she stumbles upon in a Match of Wits.
Two years after leaving the city, Agatha finds herself in Colorado and in the company of a pig. Literally. Not only that but she finds herself face to face with Zayne Beckett, the man who broke her heart two years ago when he became engaged to another. Can Zayne and Agatha find the friendship they once had while evading the assassins who are after Agatha?
This was a fast-paced, quirky, and laugh-out-loud hilarious read, filled with plenty of witty banter that brought a smile to my face.
Agatha and Zayne have been in every single book since the beginning of the series, as some of my favorite side characters, and I have wanted them to be together since book one! One of my favorite characters in this book was Mr. Blackheart. My goodness, he was hilarious! I loved him, and Agatha tormented him so, but he was a very wise man in his own way. And of course I found Matilda irresistibly adorable!
One of the very best things about this book was the witty banter between Agatha, Zayne, and Mr. Blackheart, it had me laughing so hard, absolutely, wonderfully hilarious!
Overall, this was a completely delightful read that I enjoyed all the way through. Adventure after adventure this book brought a smile to my face, with it's quick wit, sass, and humor. Definitely a book I would recommend.
Thank you to Ms. Turano for providing me with this review copy in return for an honest review!
Two years after leaving the city, Agatha finds herself in Colorado and in the company of a pig. Literally. Not only that but she finds herself face to face with Zayne Beckett, the man who broke her heart two years ago when he became engaged to another. Can Zayne and Agatha find the friendship they once had while evading the assassins who are after Agatha?
This was a fast-paced, quirky, and laugh-out-loud hilarious read, filled with plenty of witty banter that brought a smile to my face.
Agatha and Zayne have been in every single book since the beginning of the series, as some of my favorite side characters, and I have wanted them to be together since book one! One of my favorite characters in this book was Mr. Blackheart. My goodness, he was hilarious! I loved him, and Agatha tormented him so, but he was a very wise man in his own way. And of course I found Matilda irresistibly adorable!
One of the very best things about this book was the witty banter between Agatha, Zayne, and Mr. Blackheart, it had me laughing so hard, absolutely, wonderfully hilarious!
Overall, this was a completely delightful read that I enjoyed all the way through. Adventure after adventure this book brought a smile to my face, with it's quick wit, sass, and humor. Definitely a book I would recommend.
Thank you to Ms. Turano for providing me with this review copy in return for an honest review!
March 20, 2018
This is the final book in the Ladies of Distinction series, and it was a fitting end, with the previous characters and couple coming together to help Zayne and Agatha find their way as a couple. They had been good friends, and separated by distance and circumstance for two years only to be reunited now. Their road to love has many blunders and detours, which you come to expect with a Jen Turano novel.
As always her books are full of humour, especially with Matilda the P-I-G. I much prefer that to Piper the all-to-wise 8-year-old. The story brought a smile to my face. The one quibble I really have is the use of some of the vocabulary. The word "sketchy" was used twice. I know the first use of the word was in 1805, but I found out place for the story.
As always her books are full of humour, especially with Matilda the P-I-G. I much prefer that to Piper the all-to-wise 8-year-old. The story brought a smile to my face. The one quibble I really have is the use of some of the vocabulary. The word "sketchy" was used twice. I know the first use of the word was in 1805, but I found out place for the story.
June 27, 2014
I have loved all of Jen Turano's books up until now, and this one didn't disappoint!! :). She has a way of making me giggle or laugh out loud multiple times in each book, and I absolutely love her writing style. I have been waiting for Zayne and Agatha to get together for the last two books, so it was great to finally read their story. I highly recommend this series and this author. Both are wonderful! :)
Disclaimer: I had a free book sent to me by Bethany House for the purposes of an honest review.
Disclaimer: I had a free book sent to me by Bethany House for the purposes of an honest review.
February 18, 2015
When you read a Jen Turano novel, you expect two things: a quirky cast of characters and laugh out loud situations. A Match of Wits doesn't disappoint. While A Talent for Trouble remains my favorite book out of the Ladies of Distinction series (probably because it was the most over the top!), I've loved Zayne and Agatha throughout the first three books, and I'm glad they finally get their chance at their own story. This is most definitely a worthy end to a fun and spunky series. I can't wait to see what she has for us next. Recommended.
August 13, 2016
Based on the blurb, I had high hopes for the book “A Match of Wits”. An adventurous heroine in a historical setting and match of wits with the hero, usually a winning combination for me. Unfortunately, the book didn’t deliver for me. The story itself wasn’t boring, things are happening, but it felt boring to me. It felt flat, kind of like drinking tap water when you were promised sparkling water.
April 21, 2017
This one was my favorite! It was so great and a terrific ending of the series!!
June 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
To me, it was just a little repetitive, and some of Agatha’s stubbornness I didn’t like. The book was cute though, and I laughed a lot!
To me, it was just a little repetitive, and some of Agatha’s stubbornness I didn’t like. The book was cute though, and I laughed a lot!
April 30, 2022
2.5/5
I love Justine Eyre she is a wonderful narrator!
While I was excited to finally get to Zayne and Agatha's story...I was sorely disappointed.
Here's why:
Zayne is an idiot.
And completely clueless.
He is not in the other books, but he is in this one. He got on my nerves.
And, Agatha.
I also liked her in the other books but not quite as much here. She took unnecessary risks, let Zayne stomp all over her heart, and not tell him about it (which felt out of character). And her love for the pig? Just no. I know the pig is supposed to be humorous, but it wasn't to me. It doesn't act like a pig at all. It acts like another animal, and if you are curious, you'll have to read it to find out. Her "my darlings" and "princess" when speaking of the pig also got on my nerves, especially since she was afraid of it when she first met it.
I have loved Piper in the other books. In this one, she is eight going on thirty. She should not be reading romance novels, nor should she be the one giving Zayne romance advice.
The humor I love from Turano's books fell flat in this one. I will still read her other books because I know she is a fabulous and talented author. These last two of this series were a struggle for me, but I am glad to see the stories wrapped up.
I love Justine Eyre she is a wonderful narrator!
While I was excited to finally get to Zayne and Agatha's story...I was sorely disappointed.
Here's why:
Zayne is an idiot.
And completely clueless.
He is not in the other books, but he is in this one. He got on my nerves.
And, Agatha.
I also liked her in the other books but not quite as much here. She took unnecessary risks, let Zayne stomp all over her heart, and not tell him about it (which felt out of character). And her love for the pig? Just no. I know the pig is supposed to be humorous, but it wasn't to me. It doesn't act like a pig at all. It acts like another animal, and if you are curious, you'll have to read it to find out. Her "my darlings" and "princess" when speaking of the pig also got on my nerves, especially since she was afraid of it when she first met it.
I have loved Piper in the other books. In this one, she is eight going on thirty. She should not be reading romance novels, nor should she be the one giving Zayne romance advice.
The humor I love from Turano's books fell flat in this one. I will still read her other books because I know she is a fabulous and talented author. These last two of this series were a struggle for me, but I am glad to see the stories wrapped up.
August 25, 2019
I was disappointed in this book, the last installment in the Ladies of Distinction series. Agatha Watson and Zayne Beckett have had this push-pull thing going on since book one and I was so rooting for them. This book started off with promise, but it became a slog around the 30% mark. And to keep the conflict going to fill pages, it seems every character had to take leave of their senses and intelligence. Over a year and half of searching for Agatha's stalker/potential killer and no one thought to look into her co-workers at the newspaper? The humor that added so much fun in reading the previous books felt forced in this one and had me skimming scenes; little Violet was just too much to be realistic and was more of an annoyance. The last 20% of the book did a lot to improve the story in my opinion and I was glad to see all the couples one last time.
h romance - us
h romance - us
July 9, 2014
Another one for the keeper shelf!
A Match of Wits is the fourth book in Jen Turano’s Ladies of Distinction series. I was so excited for Agatha and Zayne to finally get their book! I have adored them since A Change of Fortune and fell more in love with each successive book. I couldn’t wait to see them finally get their “happily ever after” and am very happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed in the least. This book was wonderful!
With her now trademark humor, Ms. Turano weaves a hilarious and touching story of two friends finally finding true love. I love how each book in the series can stand alone, but that Ms. Turano also neatly ties them together. The dialogue, as usual, was wonderful, as were the descriptions. She had me laughing from the very beginning. I could just picture every scene, and poor Zayne, he never stood a chance against Agatha and her unfortunate accidents. I actually felt bad for him, at first, then I was trying too hard to stifle my laughter to be sympathetic. Anyone who has read her books knows, it’s almost impossible to not laugh out loud! This book picks up two years after A Talent for Trouble ends and Agatha has been sent West in search of stories and to hopefully keep her out of trouble - though trouble seems to follow her, or maybe she attracts it, I’m not sure which. Either way, it adds up to a wonderful adventure with an intriguing mystery thrown in for good measure.
Agatha Watson, as you have probably already figured out, is the heroine in this book. She has been one of my favorite characters since book one, so I loved getting to know her even better. She is witty, strong, determined, compassionate, and willing to do anything to help a friend. She also has a strong faith in God and is determined to help anyone and everything that crosses her path. I loved Matilda, a traveling companion she collects along the way.
Zayne Beckett has had a hard time the last two years and when he runs across Agatha, he’s less than enthused with her plan to “help” him. Especially since it includes returning to New York and leaving his rather lucrative business venture. But when that venture goes up in flames, literally, at Agatha’s hand (accidentally, of course), he ends up agreeing to return. I also loved Zayne, of course. He is as strong and determined as Agatha, but also sweet, kind, and a little dense when it comes to women. He wants to be Agatha’s knight in shining armor, but learns that isn’t necessary. I loved this quote, “ . . . she’d never expected him to be her knight in shining armor. Well, maybe she expected it just a bit, but she was perfectly content for them to share that armor.” - Zayne Beckett, page 329. I thought that summed up both of them, rather well.
Another thing I distinctly enjoyed was Agatha and Zayne’s relationship. They have been friends for years and it shows in how they treat each other. I loved their banter and how they didn’t really have any qualms about saying exactly what the other needed to hear, whether they actually wanted to hear it or not. It also makes it a little awkward for Zayne, since he’s only ever thought of Agatha as a friend, but now he’s struggling with feelings he doesn’t understand. But that was also endearing. I actually really liked the fact that he was so inept in dealing with women. It made him seem more realistic than all the heroes who seem to know exactly what to say and do.
The secondary characters were excellent as well. I loved Mr. Blackheart and Drusilla, Agatha’s overworked protectors. They add just the right amount of common sense to Agatha’s escapades, while also going along with her. I really enjoyed Mr. Blackheart’s advice and caring to both Agatha and Zayne. They both play matchmaker, with interesting results. Piper is back, too, which was great! She is her usual precocious self, while dishing out equal helpings of sass and advice to Zayne.
I also really appreciated the spiritual side of the book. It isn’t overly obvious, but rather weaves throughout the story. In each of Jen’s books, I’m always very impressed with how she presents it. It’s subtle in that the characters don’t typically have extensive conversations about God or the Bible, but she always leads the characters right to the point where they meet God and learn something new about Him. Her books always have a very meaningful message that touches the heart.
I honestly cannot think of anything of anything I didn’t care for in this book, which is a rarity for me. I immensely enjoyed everything. From the dialogue, to the descriptions, to the characters, to their relationships, to even the ending - which almost made me cry - it was wonderful! I loved how she ended the book, which is intended to be the last one in the series (I’m hoping for a novella or two). She brought back the ladies from each of the previous books, even Charlotte from the novella Gentleman of her Dreams, and tied everything together very sweetly. I’m sorry to see the series end, though I’m very excited to meet the characters she comes up with next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Match of Wits is the fourth book in Jen Turano’s Ladies of Distinction series. I was so excited for Agatha and Zayne to finally get their book! I have adored them since A Change of Fortune and fell more in love with each successive book. I couldn’t wait to see them finally get their “happily ever after” and am very happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed in the least. This book was wonderful!
With her now trademark humor, Ms. Turano weaves a hilarious and touching story of two friends finally finding true love. I love how each book in the series can stand alone, but that Ms. Turano also neatly ties them together. The dialogue, as usual, was wonderful, as were the descriptions. She had me laughing from the very beginning. I could just picture every scene, and poor Zayne, he never stood a chance against Agatha and her unfortunate accidents. I actually felt bad for him, at first, then I was trying too hard to stifle my laughter to be sympathetic. Anyone who has read her books knows, it’s almost impossible to not laugh out loud! This book picks up two years after A Talent for Trouble ends and Agatha has been sent West in search of stories and to hopefully keep her out of trouble - though trouble seems to follow her, or maybe she attracts it, I’m not sure which. Either way, it adds up to a wonderful adventure with an intriguing mystery thrown in for good measure.
Agatha Watson, as you have probably already figured out, is the heroine in this book. She has been one of my favorite characters since book one, so I loved getting to know her even better. She is witty, strong, determined, compassionate, and willing to do anything to help a friend. She also has a strong faith in God and is determined to help anyone and everything that crosses her path. I loved Matilda, a traveling companion she collects along the way.
Zayne Beckett has had a hard time the last two years and when he runs across Agatha, he’s less than enthused with her plan to “help” him. Especially since it includes returning to New York and leaving his rather lucrative business venture. But when that venture goes up in flames, literally, at Agatha’s hand (accidentally, of course), he ends up agreeing to return. I also loved Zayne, of course. He is as strong and determined as Agatha, but also sweet, kind, and a little dense when it comes to women. He wants to be Agatha’s knight in shining armor, but learns that isn’t necessary. I loved this quote, “ . . . she’d never expected him to be her knight in shining armor. Well, maybe she expected it just a bit, but she was perfectly content for them to share that armor.” - Zayne Beckett, page 329. I thought that summed up both of them, rather well.
Another thing I distinctly enjoyed was Agatha and Zayne’s relationship. They have been friends for years and it shows in how they treat each other. I loved their banter and how they didn’t really have any qualms about saying exactly what the other needed to hear, whether they actually wanted to hear it or not. It also makes it a little awkward for Zayne, since he’s only ever thought of Agatha as a friend, but now he’s struggling with feelings he doesn’t understand. But that was also endearing. I actually really liked the fact that he was so inept in dealing with women. It made him seem more realistic than all the heroes who seem to know exactly what to say and do.
The secondary characters were excellent as well. I loved Mr. Blackheart and Drusilla, Agatha’s overworked protectors. They add just the right amount of common sense to Agatha’s escapades, while also going along with her. I really enjoyed Mr. Blackheart’s advice and caring to both Agatha and Zayne. They both play matchmaker, with interesting results. Piper is back, too, which was great! She is her usual precocious self, while dishing out equal helpings of sass and advice to Zayne.
I also really appreciated the spiritual side of the book. It isn’t overly obvious, but rather weaves throughout the story. In each of Jen’s books, I’m always very impressed with how she presents it. It’s subtle in that the characters don’t typically have extensive conversations about God or the Bible, but she always leads the characters right to the point where they meet God and learn something new about Him. Her books always have a very meaningful message that touches the heart.
I honestly cannot think of anything of anything I didn’t care for in this book, which is a rarity for me. I immensely enjoyed everything. From the dialogue, to the descriptions, to the characters, to their relationships, to even the ending - which almost made me cry - it was wonderful! I loved how she ended the book, which is intended to be the last one in the series (I’m hoping for a novella or two). She brought back the ladies from each of the previous books, even Charlotte from the novella Gentleman of her Dreams, and tied everything together very sweetly. I’m sorry to see the series end, though I’m very excited to meet the characters she comes up with next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 20, 2023
Delightful!!! This was everything I was hoping for in Zayne and Agatha’s story and yet it was also completely surprising! I laughed a lot at the banter between our two MCs and Piper… I love that girl. I know a girl like her IRL so that makes it even better. I didn’t really like Matilda or that plot segment. The reveal and plot twist was very surprising!!!
Very cute and fun series.
Very cute and fun series.
January 15, 2025
I like this author and her books always have a Christian message. This book however just seemed silly. I almost quit without finishing, but I did finish it. Story line was OK, but the characters were too goofy.
April 18, 2017
We finally get Zayne and Agatha's story! It was a nice change of pace, being set in Colorado for a bit of the story.
January 11, 2022
Great light-hearted and fun read.
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