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 The outfits the settings and gorgeous historical content had me reading late into the night!