09 October 2025

sense and suitability | book review + giveaway

justread publicity tours

about the book


In this clean Regency romance, a woman with a scandalous past (and an even more scandalous secret) swears off love–until the man who broke her heart needs her help. What could possibly go wrong?

After two failed social seasons, her family may think the third time will be a charm, but Emmeline Lockhart just wants to survive with her dignity (and singleness) intact. She thought she’d found her perfect match in Simon Reeves–charming, handsome, a veritable hero from a novel–until he vanished from her life without so much as a “farewell” or “my deepest regrets” (or even a vague apology scribbled on the back of a calling card). Lesson learned: never fall for a man known for his charm.

Fortunately, and unlike many of the other eligible young ladies of the ton, Emmeline has no need for a husband–because she’s already found success in her scandalous (and very anonymous) profession as an author. Why bother with matrimony when she can make her own fortune and write men exactly the way she wants them?

But fate–or the misfortune of Simon’s reckless patriarchs–has other plans. Simon’s once-proud estate is in shambles, his family fortune has been gambled away, and the younger impressionable siblings in his care are running wild across his estate (and possibly across all of England). Simon is in desperate need of a wealthy, prestigious bride . . . and a friend.

Emmeline may not fit the role of heiress, but she can certainly be a friend. Just a friend. She’ll help him find a suitable match, ensure his reputation remains intact, and keep things strictly platonic–no matter how dangerously appealing his new-and-improved sincerity and regret may be.

There’s just one small problem: the undeniable chemistry that still smolders between them. Can Emme play matchmaker for the man she’s still in love with without losing her heart all over again? And is it possible that some love stories–especially the messy, inconvenient, impossible ones–are worthy of a rewrite?

publisher: thomas nelson
release date: october 14, 2025


review

what a fun regency rom-com!

emmeline lockhart was certain simon reeves would propose... until he left with no explanation. now, she's chasing a much different dream for her future as an (anonymous) author, and simon's back to find a wife. of course, despite their attempts to avoid one another, they keep crossing paths. maybe it would be better if she just helps him with his search... or maybe not?

sense and suitability has all the charm that you can expect from one of pepper basham's books. there're humorous moments aplenty, sweet family interactions, a secret or two to reveal, second chances, and undeniable chemistry. i loved this historical romance! it's a delightful read that's sure to please historical-romance readers.

i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.


considerations:
—language: none
—spice: kisses only
—faith: mentions of God, prayer, and the bible, themes of forgiveness, hope, and truth
—content: mentions of loss of parent


about the author


Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance “peppered” with grace and humor. Writing both historical and contemporary novels, she loves to incorporate her native Appalachian culture and/or her unabashed adoration of the UK into her stories. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of southwestern VA, where she is the wife, mom to five great kids, a speech-language pathologist, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

Connect with Pepper by visiting www.pepperdbasham.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

giveaway

(2) winners will receive a signed copy of Sense and Suitability (or winner’s choice of Pepper Basham’s books) and a $25 Amazon gift card!


Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 9, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 16, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
tour schedule

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous9/10/25 12:51

    Thank You for the review.
    Marion

    ReplyDelete
  2. thrilled that you loved this one! Thanks for sharing your thoughts :)

    ReplyDelete