Author Interview & Giveaway - Jen Turano

About the Book

Miss Gertrude Cadwalader hoped her position as the paid companion to Mrs. Davenport would be easy. But as she becomes acquainted with her employer, she realizes the wealthy Mrs. Davenport has a strange tendency to be a bit light-fingered with other people’s trinkets. Gertrude is relieved when Mrs. Davenport decides to have a quiet summer away from the social scene–until the woman changes her mind in order to help a young socialite launch into society.

When Gertrude is caught in the act of trying to return one of the trinkets by Mrs. Sinclair, the mother of shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, the woman jumps to an unfortunate conclusion. Harrison is determined to mend fences with Miss Cadwalader, but he’s unprepared for the escapades a friendship with her will entail 

Welcome!

Welcome to Bookworm Mama, Jen! I can not believe that I haven't had you "officially" visit my blog yet! I am so honored to remedy that oversight today! 

Since I absolutely adore you and your blog, there is no place else I’d rather be today!!!  Thank you for inviting me for a visit. 

Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing/etc. come from?

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I started reading when I was about three. I was super shy, so loved disappearing under this drop-leaf table with a book to get away from everyone. Unbeknownst to me, people could still see me, but as far as I was concerned, I was invisible. I’ve always had stories in my head, but it took me forever to realize I could actually get those stories down on paper and into book form 😊 

When did you KNOW that you wanted to be an author?

That’s a little tricky – I didn’t really start out with that as my goal. I started writing after my son and I plodded our way through a dreadful book when he was in third grade. But it was a blast writing a story for him, and then, well, it was rather nice to use my brain again. After writing about five stories, and after my son got into middle school, I think that’s when I actively began pursuing the idea of becoming a published author.

Audrey Hepburn as Eliza Doolittle
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What literary character is most like you?

Eliza Doolittle – My Fair Lady. Because she’s a bit odd, but practical.

How did you become involved with the subject or theme of Out of the Ordinary?

Out of the Ordinary began with Miss Gertrude Cadwalader in the first book of the series Behind the Scenes. She was a great character to write because she has secrets from her past that she needs to deal with in order to move forward. By pairing her with Mrs. Davenport – a woman with secrets of her own, the theme of forgiveness just naturally evolved.

What type of research was involved for Out of the Ordinary?

Steam Yacht, 1890 - Pinterest

Interesting tidbit about my research for this particular book – because I write Gilded Age, I can often fall back on what I already know about New York High Society – However…I decided to make the hero, Mr. Harrison Sinclair, an industry leader in the shipping world. Here’s the thing, as I got into writing, I quickly came to realize I knew absolutely nothing about yachts in 1883, which meant I had to stop writing and dive into nautical research. I finally found a book on the subject – less than riveting, but I’m now in possession of more knowledge than I ever thought I needed about the inner-workings of…boats.

Hahaha! I love it! Well, you painted the picture very well. I would love to take a cruise on the Sinclair's yacht. As long as birdcages are not involved!

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What hidden talents do you have?

I can sort of paint – as in pictures – but…I’m more of an abstract painter which means no one has to feel bad if they don’t know what I’m trying to paint. 

Favorite childhood book? Why?

Andrew Henry’s Meadow by Doris Burn – It’s this charming story about a boy who feels neglected by his family. And, because he’s feeling that way, he runs away from home and makes this really cool fort in the forest. He’s soon joined by his friends who are also feeling neglected. It’s very whimsical and speaks to all children who’ve wanted to run away at some point or another, only to discover that there’s really no place like home. 

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Do you have any unusual writing habits?

I usually only write in my office, I never write when I’m off to a conference, and I don’t save any of the scenes I think aren’t working.

What writing advice do you have for pre-published authors?

Perfect your craft, get your work in front of as many people as possible, and if you’re lucky enough to get feedback from editors or agents, take it. 

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Before we go can you tell us about your current WIP?

I’m just starting a new series that revolves around American heiresses who might go a bit…rogue. The first book centers around Miss Isadora Delafield who has attracted the attention of the dastardly Duke of Montrose. The idea for the book started with this – What would have happened if Consuelo Vanderbilt refused to marry the Duke of Marlborough when her mother insisted on it – We’ll see what happens.  

Thank you so much for joining us today Jen, I admire you so much and am thankful the Lord placed you in my life!

Thank you so much for having me, Rachel!!! It’s been such fun getting to know you over the past few years!! 

About the Author

Named 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. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books named top ten romances from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. 

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Jen has graciously provided a SIGNED print copy of Out of the Ordinary for a giveaway today! Giveaway will close 11/20/17 at 12:00am. Open to continental U.S. only. Void where prohibited. Please see Policies and Disclosures for more information.

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