Author: Rebecca H. Jamison
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Expected Published Date: February 14, 2012
ISBN13: 9781599559476
FTC FYI: I downloaded a copy from NetGalley, which did not affect my review.
Paperback: 240 pages
Reviewed by Mindy
Goodreads summary: “When Anne broke off her engagement seven years ago, she thought she’d never see Neil Wentworth again. But when Neil’s brother buys the house she grew up in, it seems fate has other plans in store, and Anne is woefully unprepared for the roller coaster of emotions that accompanies Neil’s return. Fans of Persuasion will love this fast-paced, modern retelling of Jane Austen’s most romantic novel.”
Anne is the responsible one. Even though her sister Liz is the one living with her Dad. The story starts with the sisters getting ready for a garage sale. They need to sale the house. Dad is deeply in debt and this is a step to help him. Anne is a successful stock broker, and is currently single. Anne and her sisters are converts to the LDS church. Her parents, before they divorced, wanted nothing to do with the church. Greg, their home teacher, comes to the house. He’s a real estate agent, and says there is an interest in the house. Their last name is Wentworth. This makes Anne stop in her tracks. Seven years ago, she dated Neil. She was so young when they were together, 19. She felt when he proposed that it was too soon. Anne was also afraid of his career choice. Neil wanted to be a police officer. She was relieved when Neil’s brother Jack was the one interested in the house. However, Neil comes with Jack to look. Anne is in her “garage sale” attire, and is embarrassed. She hasn’t seen him since the day she gave the ring back, and he sees her like this?!?
What I liked most about this book was the progression of the relationship of Neil and Anne. Time passes. Anne’s sister Mary is pregnant and is put on bed rest. Mary lives next to her in-laws, The Musgroves. When she asks (or tells) Anne she needs help, Anne rushes over. Neil has been injured and is staying with Jack, at Anne’s old house. Neil is always on Anne’s mind, even when she starts dating Will. A rich lobbyist. Who may be more trouble then he’s worth. Neil also is dating a girl named Lily. She is Mary’s sister in law. There are many times when Anne and Neil meet up and I like the “awkwardness” of Anne in these situations.
What I like most about the book are the characters. The author does a great job of character detail. My favorites were Anne and Neil. Anne is a great example of a smart, funny (even though she doesn’t mean to) girl you want to be around. One thing I wanted more from her is self confidence. She seemed down on herself a lot, and a little bit too worried about her appearance at times. However, given the fact that she is still in love with her ex-finance, and he’s dating a cute young girl, it’s a bit justified. I also really loved Neil. What a great guy. Reliable, strong, loyal, and fun to be around. No wonder Anne was smitten. I also liked how each chapter begins with Anne’s old journal entries of past events in Anne’s life.
4 out of 5 stars. My thanks to Cedar Fort for having me be part of this Blog Tour. Enjoy!
Find out more about the author here. You can find Rebecca on Facebook and watch the book trailer. Find Cedar Fort on Facebook.