Authentically, Izzy By Pepper Basham

Published by Thomas Nelson, 432 Pages

NORA’S REVIEW: I was drawn in from the start, “Dear Reader, this is a cautionary tale. A tale of family, literary classics, podiatry, matchmaking, Shakespeare, and distance.”

It’s all that and so much more. I loved the bookish setting, and the authors’ fresh voice in contemporary fiction. I found myself smiling all the way through the book because of Izzy, her love of books, her transparency, and her wit. I enjoyed how the author wrote this tale. It reminded me of how the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was written through letters. This novel is written mostly through texts, and emails which included family chats that made the story endearing, different, witty, and downright hilarious and made me laugh out loud in parts. My family kept asking me what was so funny.

I’ve read other novels by this author, which were mostly historical, it was great to see her branch out to another genre. If you love bookstores, libraries, and bookish things, you will love this novel. I also liked the two main characters, and their loving families.  Izzy, who is caught up in a library job she likes, but her heart’s desire is to own a bookstore. I enjoyed watching her get the courage to chase after her dreams and pursue her chance for true love.

Brodie has dreams of his own. Could this person he knows only online might be something more than a friend? I loved every minute of this book, it’s fun, fun, fun. It truly is a wonderful escape that keeps your heart happy, and a grin on your face as you go on a grand adventure with Izzy, her quirky family, and Brodie.

 I highly recommend this heartfelt, joyful, uplifting story that includes discussion questions for your book club. This novel is a keeper.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent

TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

The Book Club Network blog