DNF @ 25%. I genuinely think that 'Perusasion' is the most difficult Austen novel to adapt, in whatever capacity one might choose to do it. You only have to look at 2023 Netflix version to prove my point. 'A Matter of Persuasion' relocates the famously melancholic story to Gilded Age New York, turns Anne into Amy and makes her a writer with a financially ailing family. And I sort of knew during one chapter where, having spent far too long having rather unpleasant family characters whine at each other, our heroine met her Wentworth with absolutely no build up. I think Howes' attempt, however valiant, is clumsy in its execution. Really, with a few plot changes, this could have been an entirely original narrative and been far more appealing to me. But because it's got the original novel to compare itself to, I just couldn't continue with it. This one just didn't click with me and, considering the other reviews on here are overwhelmingly positive, I appear to be in the minority.

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.

This was a beautiful story which really captured my attention immediately. A lovely era, gentle and mostly calm. Slower pace of life and people seem to have more time. I loved this book. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

Persuasion is a favourite Austen novel, and I enjoyed the Gilded Age series on TV, so I expected to like this retelling of the story set in New York in 1882, and I did. Amy is the overlooked middle daughter of an old-money New York family. A successful author, she has already offended their snobbish sensibilities. Still, it is apparent that Amy is the only member of the family with any common sense, and fortunately for them, Amy loves her family too. As the story progresses, It explores Amy's sacrifice, and she has to reacquaint herself with her lost love, Mr Wareham, an engineer she refused to marry at her family's behest, and discovers she still has romantic feelings. Still, he seems to have forgotten what they once were to each other. The story works well in this nineteenth-century New York setting, and the rigid society and wealth are easy to imagine. The complex characters are believable. Amy travels on a life-changing emotional journey. I like the similarities with the original and the subtle differences, which give it a fresh perspective. The unforgiving society and the misogyny define this story and resonate, as does the tumultuous love story. It's an entertaining and immersive read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Thank you NetGalley and HQ for this eCopy to review

I recently finished reading "A Matter of Persuasion" by Theresa Howes, and I must say, it was a delightful experience. Set in the opulent Gilded Age of New York, the novel is a reimagining of Jane Austen's classic "Persuasion," but with its own unique twists and turns.

The story follows Amy Eaton, a bestselling author who faces disdain from her "old money" family for her professional success. Eight years after being persuaded to give up the love of her life, Wareham, Amy finds herself navigating the complexities of her social circle when he returns as a wealthy, self-made man in search of a wife.

What I loved most about this book was the rich historical detail. Howes does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the lavish settings and societal norms of the time. The descriptions of the outfits, the grand parties, and the intricate social dynamics made me feel like I was right there in 18821.

Amy is very compelling, her struggle between familial duty and personal happiness is portrayed with depth and sensitivity. I found myself rooting for her as she grappled with her feelings for Wareham and the expectations placed upon her by her family. The romance is heartfelt and the tension between Amy and Wareham is palpable,

It's a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that fans of historical fiction and classic literature will surely enjoy. If you're looking for a book that combines romance, history, and a touch of drama, this one is definitely worth picking up.

A Matter of Persuasion by Theresa Howes is a reworking of Jane Austen's last novel, Persuasion. I approached it with trepidation as the original is my favourite of Austen's novels, However, I was pleasantly relieved. The setting has been moved to New York and its environs in the 1880s. The Eaton family has been overspending and Amy, the middle, unconsidered, daughter, persuades her father and older sister to rent out their New York house and move to the coast. Amy is a writer and funds the move, pays the debts of her family and gets only criticism. The plot unfolds as any Austen reader would expect. I found the book to be well-structured and plotted and faithful to the original by and large.

I don't usually follow fan fiction and versions of classics but this is a little different. Not set in the modern day or even in England but in old New York at the time of the industrial revolution/ coming of the railways and the emergence of Votes for Women. The story echoes elements of Austen's Persuasion but does not copy the plot. It kept me engrossed and would have been a 5 star read except for two things. Without spoilers all I can say is: how did she end her serialised novel, and what did she write in Wareham's copy of the book? Both were important parts of the story with lots of anticipation but no reveal. Disappointing.

A modern retelling of Persuasion set in America . Amy , a renowned novelist is trying to bring her family to task . Good for Jane Austen fans

I love Jane Austen and Persuasion is one of my favourites. This retelling is a good adaptation and I think the American setting will appeal to many.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In this Persuasion retelling set in the Gilded Age of the US, we follow Amy, a famous novelist, as she struggles to take care of her spendthrift family. She is forced to come to term with the choices she has made, when old flame Wareham comes back into her life.

I'm a huge Jane Austen fan and loved how this book incorporated her witty criticism of society. The tropes and general plot of the original are still there, but the characters and their preoccupations have been updated to match the new context.

A recommended read for fans of Jane Austen, Evelyn Waugh, and second-chance romance.

Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Charming, harsh and women being amazing! History has rarely been gentle with it's women, Amy has had to be stronger than most, you just have to keep reading to find out if she gets the ending she deserves.

A decent modern day version of Jane Austen's Persuasion I think (though nothing could do justice to the original). I liked the American take on it. One thing I struggled with was the inconstancy of Amy's thinking. Also, she seemed a little mean at times. Wareham was a great character. I did feel for Amy, the way she was so badly treated by her family. I wish she'd made them admit how her books were keeping them financially afloat. They didn't seem grateful at all! With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This charming romance is a delightful and quick read, making it the perfect companion for a holiday, beach, or poolside escape. As my first experience with this author, I found their storytelling engaging and enjoyable, leaving me eager to explore more of their work. The book cover is wonderfully eye-catching, sure to draw attention and spark interest in any bookshop. If you're in search of a light-hearted romance that captures the essence of love and longing, this book is a lovely choice!

Read more at The Secret Bookreview.

There is something rather Cinderellaesque about this book. Poor Amy is badly treated, derided and it’s always made to put herself last by her family, especially her sisters. She was pushed to walk away from her first love and still has a hole in her heart from that day. This is a good read with all the machinations that make a plot gripping - weddings, rapid engagements, money and intrigue- even newspaper headlines deciding the plot. There is a little too much put upon Amy and her acceptance grates a little, however she pushes on through and the last chapter is one of comeuppance.

A Matter of Persuasion completely captured my heart! The way it immerses you in the lavish details of the era, from the exquisite outfits to the opulent settings made me feel like I was living in that time. I couldn’t help but stay up late, lost in the world the author created. Amy Eaton is such a relatable character. I loved her journey of balancing her dreams with familial obligations. Her internal struggle really resonated with me, especially the way she navigates her love for writing in a society that expects women to fit a mold. The emotional depth of her character is so beautifully portrayed; I found myself cheering for her as she wrestles with the choices she made in the past, particularly regarding Wareham. The tension between Amy and Wareham is absolutely electric! Their history is rich with longing, and every interaction is charged with unspoken feelings. The writing style effortlessly captures the essence of their relationship and the societal pressures around them, making every moment feel significant. It left me with that warm, satisfied feeling, proving that second chances are indeed possible. I can’t recommend it enough for those who adore emotionally rich historical romances!

Loved this beautiful Gilded age novel! The outfits the settings and gorgeous historical content had me reading late into the night!