Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham will entertain you from start to finish. This is Basham’s first Regency era novel, and it is superb. She has the gift of storytelling, and if you don’t believe it after reading this book, I’m not sure what to say about you.

What I Liked About Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham

This story has the perfect blend of serious and humor as only Basham can deliver. One scene will tug at your heart and the next have you rolling with laughter. This fantastic combination is just one reason she is one of my favorite authors.

If you’ve read Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, you’ll see parallels with the story of the two main characters. Simon Reeves, the Viscount of Ravenscroft, who teeters between Willoughby and Colonel Brandon, and Emmaline Lockhart, the heroine, who perfectly combines Marianne and Elinor. And another Austen book may spring to mind that involves the hero rising from the lake and meddling aunts.

The supporting cast is fabulous. The Reeves children give Simon the opportunity to show his tender side as he learns to navigate the responsibilities of raising siblings. Emmaline’s sister and her cousin are perfect supporters in her humiliating situation. The Lockhart’s Aunt Albina “Bean” Bridges provides much comic relief as she endeavors to instruct both Emmaline and Aster on the fine art of husband finding.

What You’ll Like About Sense and Suitability

Fans of Jane Austen will appreciate and enjoy this story. Basham has captured the style of the beloved author while creating something fresh.

If you like romantic comedies, this novel will please you. There are many serious moments, especially involving Simon’s siblings, but the story is also so much fun with ample laugh-out-loud moments.

The faith element is present but subtly presented. I’d almost classify this as a clean, romantic comedy, which is not the norm for Basham.

Final Thoughts

I believe there are more Regency books planned, and I’m hoping they might focus on Aster and Ben Northrop, Simon’s somewhat roguish friend, and Thomas Bridges and Arianna, Simon’s runaway sister. I’m only speculating because I don’t know.

Sense and Suitability is delightful and definitely a five-star read.

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