Behind the Scenes: 1 (Apart From the Crowd) - Softcover

Start of a Delightful New Series from Historical Romance Author Jen Turano 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." Mr. Asher Rutherford has managed to maintain his status as a reputable gentleman of society despite opening his own department store. While pretending it's simply a lark to fill his time, he has quite legitimate reasons for needing to make his store the most successful in the country. When Permilia overhears a threat against the estimable Mr. Rutherford, she's determined to find and warn the man. Disgruntled at a first meeting that goes quite poorly and results in Asher not believing her, she decides to take matters into her own hands, never realizing she'll end up at risk as well. As Asher and Permilia are forced to work together and spend time away from the spotlight of society, perhaps there's more going on behind the scenes than they ever could have anticipated. . . .

"[Turano] will have readers laughing out loud and rooting for their favorite characters to fall in love."--RT Book Reviews Top Pick review of Playing the Part

After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, Miss Permilia Griswold has finally figured out a way to pass the time at all the New York high-society events she attends. Under the pseudonym "Miss Quill," she is the author of society gossip columns filled with tidbits only an insider in society--albeit one on the fringes--would know.

When she overhears a threat against Mr. Asher Rutherford, the owner of one of the most up-and-coming department stores in the city, she's determined to warn him. But the irritatingly handsome man doesn't believe her, leaving her no choice but to take matters into her own hands. What she doesn't anticipate is that she'll end up putting herself at risk in the process--or that she and Mr. Rutherford, a man with secrets of his own, just might end up joining forces after all.

"With all the charm of a Regency romance, the humor of a drawing room farce, and the swoonworthy delight of a fairy tale, Turano's first Apart from the Crowd historical absolutely sparkles. The plot's subtle highlighting of Permilia as a woman who can take care of herself--a Cinderella who doesn't need a prince--pairs well with the quietly powerful and inspiring message of finding opportunities in unexpected places."--Publishers Weekly starred review

"Readers of Mary Connealy and Karen Witemeyer will love this laugh-out-loud tale set in 1880s New York."--Christian Market

"Turano's series debut, laced with humor and populated with eccentric characters, takes an irreverent look at Gilded Age New York. Perfect for those who enjoy a light historical romance."--Library Journal

"Turano's ability to tell a great story infused with humor and light-hearted banter shows through on each page. The first novel in her new Apart From the Crowd series will delight her fans and should serve to create many new ones. There's a bit of a mystery, a headstrong heroine and a sweetly developed romance, which join together in a fun, engrossing tale. The author's strong knowledge of fashion provides an added dimension of interest to this enjoyable book." --RT Book Reviews