A review by montanamomreads
Matter of Persuasion PB by Theresa Howes

emotional hopeful informative reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Thank you to @hqstories @netgalley and the author for the #gifted e-book.

In New York during the Gilded Age, a time marked by the Industrial Revolution and the rise of suffragettes, we meet Amy, an accomplished authoress caught in a web of familial selfishness and social expectations. Eight years prior, Amy ended her engagement at the insistence of a family friend to Wareham, as he was deemed  unworthy due to his financial standing. Now, with Wareham’s unexpected return, old feelings reignite, leaving both to ponder whether they can rekindle their romance.

This narrative echoes the themes of Jane Austen's Persuasion but stands out as a distinctive retelling. The author masterfully immerses readers in the details of the era, illuminating its societal norms. Amy’s journey to strike a balance between her ambitions and family duties is both relatable and deeply moving. It’s disheartening to witness her family’s lack of support for her literary aspirations. The tension between Amy and Wareham is palpable, electric, filled with longing and unexpressed emotions. Each encounter vibrates with significance, artfully reflecting the complexities of their past and the societal pressures that bind them.

If you cherish richly crafted historical romances and adore Jane Austen, this book is an absolute must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on January 30, 2025!