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    Behind the Scenes
    Behind the Scenes
    Behind the Scenes
    Audiobook10 hours

    Behind the Scenes

    Written by Jen Turano

    Narrated by Lauren Ezzo

    4.5/5

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    About this audiobook

    Miss Permilia Griswold may have been given the opportunity of a debut into New York high society, but no one warned her she wasn't guaranteed to take. After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, she's finally putting her status on the fringes of society to good use by penning anonymous society gossip columns under the pseudonym Miss Quill. The estimable Mr. Asher Rutherford has managed to maintain his status as a reputable gentleman of society despite opening his own department store. When Permilia overhears a threat against him, she's determined to find and warn the man, taking matters into her own hands and never realizing she'll end up at risk as well. As Asher and Permilia are forced to work together, they spend time away from the spotlight of society and discover that there may be more going on behind the scenes than they could have ever anticipated...
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherTwo Words Publishing, LLC
    Release dateFeb 13, 2018
    ISBN9781666585896
    Author

    Jen Turano

    Jen Turano is the author of over eight books and two novellas. A graduate of the University of Akron, she has a degree in clothing and textiles, is a member of ACFW, and lives in Denver, Colorado. For more information, visit her at www.jenturano.com.

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    Reviews for Behind the Scenes

    4.5/5

    44 ratings13 reviews

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    • 2/5
      Behind the Scenes by Jen Turano is the first book in Apart from the Crowd series. Miss Permilia Griswold lives in New York City with her father, stepmother and stepsister. Permilia (what an unusual name) was raised by her father, George after her mother passed away. She traveled with him around the country while he took care of his mining business. Permilia received a man’s education and Permilia thought she would help her father run his businesses. Then George Griswold married Ida, a widow. Ida is a society woman who believes a woman should debut, get married, have children and go to parties. Ida raised her daughter, Lucy in this manner. Permilia is frustrated by all of Ida’s rules and the endless functions and society parties. The Griswold’s have been invited to Mr. & Mrs. Williams Vanderbilt’s costume ball (event of the year). Permilia is considered a wallflower by society because of her unconventional ideas, manner of dress, and the way she speaks. Mr. Asher Rutherford of Rutherford and Company (a department store) is also attending the ball. Lucy is interested in Asher, but Ida does not believe he is a suitable mate for her daughter because he is “in trade”. Permilia is sneaking around the ball taking notes for her society column Miss Quill’s Quality Corner. While helping a friend, Permilia overhears a plot to murder Asher. Permilia tells Asher about it, but he does not believe her until he is attacked with arrows. Permilia and some friends come to his rescue, but the killer will not be so easily thwarted. Asher and Permilia will need to join forces to find the evildoer, before they find themselves in the obituary pages instead of the society columns.I was looking forward to Jen Turano’s Behind the Scenes. I had enjoyed the lighthearted humor and engaging characters in her A Class of Their Own series. What I appreciated in that series was missing in Behind the Scenes. I found the writing to be awkward with stilted dialogue. Permilia was too peculiar (her education, way she spoke, unusual dress, clumsy, cannot dance, gets tongue-tied, etc.). I did not understand Asher being so possessive of Permilia at the ball. They had only had two unpleasant encounters prior to this occasion. Asher went out of his way to protect Permilia especially from Eugene Slater, an interested suitor. Then there is the offensive stepmother, Ida and her equally annoying daughter, Lucy. I give Behind the Scenes 2 out of 5 stars. I just did not like Behind the Scenes. I tried to read the complete novel, but it was impossible. I ended up skimming through some portions of the story. The ball scene took up 35% of the book (it seemed like it went on forever). The reader is subjected to every little detail about the ball. The dances, what people were wearing, room décor, food, and so forth (this attention to detail continues throughout the book). There was also one inane incident after another. I do not mind some light, fun humor, but this was just plain silly (idiotic would be a better word). Every single one of the wallflowers were eccentric. I found the ending to be predictable. The mystery was easily solved early in the story. The Christian element was very light. I did like Mrs. Davenport and the Huxley sisters (Mabel and Henrietta). I think a book about Mrs. Davenport would be more entertaining (what a character). I believe I will be skipping the rest of the Apart from the Crowd series.

      1 person found this helpful

    • 4/5
      While this is Christian fiiction it's not preachy.Christianity is part of the character and feels quite natural for her to consult with her pastor on issues she has.Miss Permilla Griswold is the daughter of a miner and spent most of her youth with him. When she's older he marries a woman with a daughter of a similar age and connections to New York Soceity, however much she would like to be. she doesn't want to change herself a lot to fit in. She uses her wallflower status to pen a society gossip collumn under the name Miss Quill. This all changes when one of the Vanderbilts invites journalists to her ball who tell more than she ever did. She didn't want to embarass people and these people don't care.While there and trying to help a friend and fellow wallflower escape trouble she overhears a plot to assassinate the rather interesting Asher Rutherford, of course, when she tells him this he doesn't believe her so she decides to save him, with a little help from her friends. There are also some Pinkertons involved and some stress from her step-mother. There are lots of shenanigans and honestly it was a fun read.I found it a fun read with interesting characters and I'm curious about her friends.
    • 4/5
      STORY-LINE BEHIND THE SCENES BY JEN TURANO:Behind The Scenes set in New York high society, is filled with laughter, fun, and mystery. Permilia Griswold, wall flower of the society set, hides on the fringes of the ballrooms. Born to a miner who stroke it rich, part of the new wealthy of New York, Permilia is a step out of time with the high society's gentility. Thrifty, smart, and awkward, Permilia and her step-mother are ever at odds as Permilia stumbles and humbles her way through society.During one of her escapades, she hears a murder plot against Asher Rutherford. Permilia's determined to save him from himself when he does not take her warning seriously. While behind the scenes, much more's going on. Come along with Permilia, Asher, and company as they ferret out the latest secrets and plots. My reviews of romance novel, Behind The Scenes, follows.CHARACTERS, PLOTTING,DEVELOPMENT:Not only is Behind The Scenes a fine romance, it has a lot of humor; I laughed repeatedly at the antics of Permilia Griswold. Seeing high society from her perspective was refreshing. Permilia's awkward, uncoordinated, and let's face it, walks to the beat of a different drummer. As a result, she and others like her, the ones not as pretty or poised, or like Permilia hear a different drummer, find themselves the wall flowers of the balls. How hurtful this must have been for the girls who did not have Permilia's fortitude. Does this bother Permilia? Not in the least as she has other dreams and ambitions.Furthermore, I loved the characteristics Turan instilled in Permilia's character; I knew I would love to have her as a friend. Not only smart, she's definitely not a shrinking violet; she would be a woman's activist in today's world. Permilia has a secret which no one is aware. If revealed it could lead to disaster. Born before her time, Permilia is a shaker and mover. I could imagine her commanding a board room with her personality alone.The funniest thing I have ever read was Permilia's gallop through the ball room during the Go-As-You-Please Quadrille. I laughed until I cried. How proud Permilia was of herself when the dance finished! Asher was amazed, or was it appalled? Either way Asher was the perfect gentleman; a true knight in shining armor.Asher's character is a product of his time; women had a place and should not divert from their appointed place. However Permilia has a decided effect on Asher's attitudes as his character grew throughout the story-line. To say he's bemused by Permilia's an understatement. I could almost see Asher's head spinning around as Permilia ran circles around him. What starts as "what in the world" turns into "she is my world" as Permilia's outlook on life permeates every corner of Ashe's life. What a wonderful romance novel!In concluding my reviews of romance novel, Behind The Scenes, I found the plotting skillfully; and the pace fast, smooth, and steady as Permilia turns New York society and Asher underside down. I hope Turan turns this book into a series as I thoroughly enjoyed my visit with Permilia, Asher, and friends. Won't you love to read about Gertrude and Hamilton's relationship; I just know there is romance on the horizon. I see the chance for several books in the secondary characters of Behind The Scenes.BEHIND THE SCENES RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4I would not hesitate to buy this book for my self or a friend. Behind The Scenes will give hours of relaxing entertainment.FINALLY PLEASE NOTE:Additionally, I received this book from Netgalley and chose to voluntarily review the book/novel with an honest reviews for romance novel, Behind The Scenes. Furthermore, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book/novel review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book/novel reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. Furthermore, no one influenced my voluntary reviews for romance novel, Behind The Scenes.
    • 5/5
      I completely love Jen turano! I haven’t read one of her books yet that I don’t love!
    • 5/5
      Author Jen Turano long ago created her own genre. Her stories are always a reader's treat: the characters are captivating, the story lines are involving, and her writing is always infused throughout with delicious wit and abiding faith. "Behind the Scenes", Book One in the "Apart From the Crowd"series, is set in the societal whirl and world of New York City in the late 1800's. While Miss Permilia Griswold appears to onlookers to be a languishing wallflower, she is actually "Miss Quill", the mysterious gossip columnist with an insider's eye view of the whims and peccadilloes of the city's elite citizens. An overheard conversation leaves Permilia with knowledge of a threat against Mr. Asher Rutherford, a department store owner and a businessman on the rise. Convincing Mr. Rutherford that he is in danger is no easy task, and Permilia feels compelled to act upon her own resolve. Circumstances bring Permilia and Asher together, and admiration and unexpected attraction grows between them, but it will take faith and fortitude to see their way to a possible lifetime of lasting love. Once you read one story by Jen Turano, you will just have to read them all. Highly recommended.Book Copy Gratis Bethany House Books
    • 5/5
      As you quickly turn the pages of this book you soon realize that it has a bit of everything. There is humor, historical facts, a glimpse into the wealthy elite New York Society, and a plot of murder.Being banished into the wallflower group at society balls doesn’t seem in the least to bother Permilia Griswold, she is a woman who likes herself, and is so loveable, she will quickly win you over with her antics and her compassion.The author had me at the names she used for her characters, loved the chuckles, and ingenuity, this book has it all. There is a little bit of romance here, but it is so subtle that you might miss it, but a profession, which is not accepted of courtship, will give you a heads up, at least until the very end.This one kept me guessing as to whom wanted Asher’s demise, and then the secrets fell all over the place.Come and get a look at old New York City, and the making of a new department store.I received this book through Bethany House Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
    • 5/5
      I got a preview of this book with the Novella At Your Request and was glad to get the chance to read more into this world. Permila makes good use of her status or lack of in New York high society to be able to write a gossip column and finds herself in a situation where she feels like she needs to share what she has learned. I enjoyed reading how she went about getting in touch with Asher Rutherford to let him know what she has learned and going the extra mile to make him see the truth in what she is telling him. I liked how their relationship evolved and how they were able to really see who the other was by not worrying about everyone else's opinion. I received a copy of the book from the publisher, but the review is entirely my own.
    • 4/5
      For Permilia Griswold, being a wallflower is not a bad thing. She stays on the fringes of society. She shows efforts to be a lady to her stepmother and she gets the information she needs to write her society column for the newspaper. It is usually a safe position to be in, until she overhears the plotting of a murder.I love the books of Jen Turano that I have read. I know that I will have a strong heroin who gets herself into precarious situations. The book will be well paced and fun to read. This book fit all of the descriptions above. I loved Permilia and her unconventional friends. There are aspects that remind me of the Cinderella story. I guess any story that has a mean step-mother, spoiled step-sister, and a missing slipper.... You can't forget the handsome gentleman in the equation.The book is set in wealthy New York City. Permilia is a champion for the underprivileged woman who knows how to shoot a gun. She is not afraid to charge to the rescue when needed or find unique ways to get out of a room. There are many moments that make you laugh. This book is clean, with mild violence and mild kissing.Source: I received a review ebook via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.1 like
    • 3/5
      Maybe it's just my mood but I found this story to be a little too silly and not as funny as I've come to expect from the author.
    • 4/5
      With all the great qualities I now expected from one of Jen Turano’s novels, Behind the Scenes tells the story of a society wallflower determined to save the day. Mystery, suspense, and romance amidst plenty of quirky circumstances and humorous dialogue fill the pages of Permilia Griswold's high-society, life-saving adventure. It’s highly entertaining and fun at every twist and turn, and I couldn't help enjoying Behind the Scenes. Any fan of Jen Turano will not want to miss this Apart From the Crowd novel. I recommend it.Thanks to Celebrate Lit, I received a complimentary copy of Behind the Scenes and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
    • 5/5
      As always, Jen Turano, does not disappoint. This is a fantastic read. I loved this book. This made me laugh in so many places. There was a little bit of suspense but more fun in this story. I look forward to reading the next in this series. Permilia and Asher learn in fun ways that they are meant to be together. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit and the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
    • 5/5
      I love Jen Turano. She has to be my favorite author. My daughters too. I can't wait for her next book, and this one was no exception. She grabs my attention and I hold on until the last page. I find myself, several times laughing until tears come. My daughter and I often challenge to see who can finish her book first. My only complaint, there is too many months until her next release. ;-)
    • 4/5
      Sunday, April 30, 2017Behind the Scenes by Jen Turano, © 2017Apart from the Crowd, Book 1Visibly overheard ~"Your oddness is exactly why I have yet to acquire a suitable offer of marriage...."--Behind the Scenes, 11.I so enjoy Jen Turano's quirky characters and definitely not reflecting upon the one spoken of in conversation! She is already dear to my heart.I am enjoying the antics of Miss Permilia Griswold as she processes information necessary for the welfare of others. She is vivid, alive, and most certainly has active thoughts of her own to carry forth before others. Some might say "an informant" however that might not be the case in point, even innocently being in the wrong place at the right time for the benefit of being a rescuer."I'm a wallflower, Asher. We spend most of our time noticing things."--Ibid., 147.Merchant, Mr. Asher Rutherford has befriended her, much to his guile in his assuredness of charming the ladies just by his presence ~ I don't even think she has been in his establishment to make a purchase of anything; not even gloves."Have you ever considered the idea that some of our life experiences should be looked upon as stepping stones, needed in order to cross the stream at large, but not meant to be lingered on forever?"--Ibid., 230-31.Readily assured by his down-to-earth friend, Mr. Harrison Sinclair, she means him no harm beyond her outlook for his person. You might even wonder how they became friends with their differences ~ adhering to a strict regular schedule unknowingly, and the other being flexible enough to be observant.His hair was combed exactly as it was always combed, not a single strand out of place, and as he drew closer she got a distinct whiff of his cologne, a blend created specifically for him––sandalwood, a touch of lime, and something she hadn't been able to decipher but thought might simply be Asher.--Ibid., 330.A J*O*Yful entry of two antiquated sisters brings a novel change to their town by their careful perusing of the comings and goings on Broadway from their third-floor windows. The Miss Huxley's, Miss Mabel and Miss Henrietta, to ascertain to whom a conversation is being spoken, given their peculiarities might garner unassumingly trivialized insertions from times past.A merry chase is had as the characters stand to uphold each other through thick and thin.***Thank you, author Jen Turano and Celebrate Lit for a copy of the first book in the Apart from the Crowd series. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***