A cute, clean romance. While this isn't a perfect book--some of the interaction was just overly flowery and wordy and I didn't love the conflict with the stipend and hiding that information--it is a very enjoyable read.

Such a cute read and so much fun! I'm a huge fan of epistolary novels so this was perfect for me! Definitely one that you'll breeze through and enjoy the whole time. A great summer read but it'll also be a lovely getaway on dark winter days when you need a pick me up!

4/5 stars!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Authentically, Izzy
by Pepper Basham
Pub Date 15 Nov 2022
Thomas Nelson--FICTION,Thomas Nelson
Romance


Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction provided me with Authentically Izzy to review:


Dear Reader, I'm Isabelle Louisa Edgewood. Fresh air and books keep me content in my blue-tinted mountains. Oh, and coffee and tea, of course. I am occasionally accosted by the love of my family. (You'll understand my choice of verb later.) My romantic history hasn't been the stuff of fairy tales, but I dream of opening my own bookstore. This is probably why my pregnant, misled, matchmaking cousin-who is really more like my sister-signed me up for an online dating service.


Trouble is, it worked. Almost too good to be true, I've met my book-quoting Mr. Right. Brodie lives across the ocean. Just the other day, a perfectly nice author and professor named Eli asked me out for coffee at the library where I work. It's like a rom-com with a foreboding disaster.


I've played it safe for a long time. Perhaps I should be as brave as my favorite literary heroines. Taking the adventures real might be the next step. Wish me luck.


I give Authentically, Izzy five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

This book has a lot of great humor and wit! Great character development and honestly I fell in love with the hero and heroine. Any book that is about books is a book for me! Could I say book one more time? Ha! HOWEVER, it didn't work for me and here is why. I enjoy epistolary moments in books, but what I do not enjoy is an entire book written in email and text. I want to see the characters actually engage with one another. I think we miss out on so much of the love story by not actually living in the moment with the characters. I definitely enjoyed the author's writing, and I would like to read another book by her but not in this format.

Thank you to NetGalley and to Thomas Nelson for this advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I enjoyed the epistolary nature of the first half of this book, and the swerve back to a prose storytelling method in the second half felt a bit too much of a change after this. The storyline was intriguing and enjoyable overall.

Iveliz Explains It All” is a novel in verse by Andrea Beatriz Arango. The book tells the story of Iveliz, a 12-year-old Latina girl who navigates seventh grade while facing mental health challenges. Iveliz retreats into her poetry and journal to cope with depression and PTSD. Her abuela Mimi’s arrival from Puerto Rico means a chance to feel like a family again, filling in the space left by her father’s absence. But Mimi’s Alzheimer’s has progressed since the last time Iveliz saw her, and Iveliz’s fraught relationship with her distant, always working Mami doesn’t help to keep the peace either. Meanwhile, her friendship with Amir, a boy from Afghanistan, seems to be on the rocks, and Iveliz keeps getting in trouble at school thanks to bullies, an ill-conceived revenge plot, and awkward attempts to forge a new friendship. Going to therapy and managing her medication also eat away at Iveliz even as she tries to find solace in visions of her dad. Full of heartbreak and compassion, Arango’s debut crackles with refreshing frankness and wit. The author excels at building Iveliz’s voice through each poem, leading to a tale that’s quick to read yet hard to put down.

Book Review: Authentically Izzy

Pepper Basham weaves a charming tale in "Authentically Izzy," inviting readers into a world where bookish dreams and modern romance entwine. This delightful epistolary novel introduces us to Izzy Edgewood, a passionate book lover, quote enthusiast, and aspiring bookstore owner. Izzy's life revolves around the enchanting world of books and her beloved Lord of the Rings, leaving little room for real-life romantic adventures.

Enter her pragmatic cousin, Josephine, who takes it upon herself to nudge Izzy out of her comfort zone and into the realm of online dating. Initially skeptical, Izzy finds herself engaging in conversations with a fellow book lover, Brodie, who resides oceans away in a quaint town. The connection they share over books, family, and heartfelt exchanges is endearing, but the question remains - can their burgeoning love endure the hurdles of distance, particularly when a charming local author vies for Izzy's affections?

Pepper Basham crafts a narrative that is as enchanting as the stories Izzy adores. The characters come alive through their written exchanges, allowing readers to delve deep into their hopes, fears, and burgeoning romance. Izzy's evolution from a dreamer to someone willing to take a leap of faith is beautifully depicted, highlighting the courage it takes to pursue love beyond the barriers of fear and distance.

The chemistry between Izzy and Brodie is palpable, and their blossoming relationship is portrayed with grace and authenticity. The inclusion of letters and online messages adds a unique layer to the storytelling, providing insights into their personalities and feelings. The backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the captivating world of books serves as a perfect setting for this heartwarming love story.

"Authentically Izzy" is a tale that celebrates the magic of bookish dreams and the triumph of love over uncertainty. Pepper Basham's narrative style effortlessly captures the essence of love and companionship, leaving readers with a heartwarming message - that sometimes, the most magical love stories are those that unfold beyond the pages of our beloved books.

In conclusion, "Authentically Izzy" is a captivating and delightful read, a love letter to book lovers and romantics alike. Pepper Basham's skillful storytelling and heartfelt characters make this a novel worth savoring, leaving readers yearning for their own happily-ever-after.

Loved the writing style of this author, written mostly in emails and text messages. I wasn't sure in the beginning but it turned out to be really fun and was a breeze to read through, Anything that involved books in the story line is usually a winner for me and the two main characters in this story are the cutest book nerds. Such a cute romance, no spice but the characters made up for it.

I was not a fan of this work. I really disliked the format. It felt disjointed. I would probably give this author another chance because I liked the premise.

I can't remember if I've read anything written by Pepper Basham before, but I know I have a bunch of her books tagged as "Want to Read". Authentically Izzy was a delight. I wasn't sure about the format at first, but when I listened to the audio version, it brought the characters to life, and made everything coalesce into a wonderful romantic comedy.

Izzy Edgewood has been unlucky in love, to the point that her family is worried about her disappearing into the books she reads voraciously. They know she's funny, full of great quotes, and a complete Lord of the Rings aficionado, but how is she ever going to meet anyone new when she's buried in her books? When her pregnant cousin takes matters into her own hands and signs Izzy up for an online dating community, Izzy is furious. She has no plans to even open the app, but finally succumbs to her cousin's nagging. One man captures her imagination with his bookish references to The Hobbit and witty responses to her emails. Could her Mr. Right really be "just across the pond" in the tiny island nation of Skymar?

Brodie Sutherland is intrigued by Izzy's devotion to books. His family owns the largest and oldest bookstore on Skymar, so he understands her better than any other woman he's ever met. Their instant connection thrills him but he feels a bit guilty, since he only got on the Heart-to-Heart site for monetary gain. Skymar's government is offering money to any citizen who can bring new residents to their country and the money would go a long way toward giving new life to the family business. The more Brodie gets to know Izzy, the less the money matters. Can he convince Izzy - who hates to fly - to come to Skymar for a visit, and if she comes, will she stay?

This book was beyond fun to read or to listen to. I loved the family dynamics between Izzy and her cousins Josephine, Luke, and Penelope. Each personality explodes off the page, and I can't wait to read the next installment, Positively Penelope!!! Readers who love romantic comedy that is completely swoony, will love this story. I highly recommend!!

Unique format for a wonderful story

I loved the themes of finding oneself and living authentically, all within a sweet romance. I adored the bookish references! Skymar seems to be a magical place and I love it!

The style of writing was fun! It started out as emails, texts, and messages on a dating website, then went to a more traditional story later on. The formats used worked well for the story that was told.

This was a sweet romance, I'd rate G/PG for mild kissing and mention of death of parents.

"Authentically, Izzy" by Pepper Basham is a heartfelt journey of self-discovery that captured my heart from start to finish. This novel is a beautifully crafted exploration of identity, family, and the transformative power of embracing one's true self.

Basham's writing style is tender and evocative, immersing readers in the emotions and experiences of the characters. The protagonist's personal journey of growth and self-acceptance is portrayed with authenticity and grace.

At the heart of the narrative is a poignant story of finding one's voice and breaking free from the expectations of others. The characters' struggles and triumphs are relatable, and their connections with each other add a layer of depth to the story.

"Authentically, Izzy" seamlessly blends themes of faith, love, and personal transformation, resulting in a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The exploration of the characters' inner worlds and their paths toward self-discovery make the story truly resonant.

In conclusion, "Authentically, Izzy" is a touching and beautifully written novel that celebrates the journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity. If you're seeking a book that combines faith, emotion, and the power of embracing your true identity, this novel offers a compelling and heartwarming narrative that will leave you uplifted.

I must admit, I had a little bit of trouble getting into this book at first. The way that the first half of the novel is strictly emails and text messages makes it a bit hard to really connect with the characters as it is mostly dialogue and not really in their heads as much. Of course, this is only a personal preference.

I really like most of the characters as they are each interesting in their own ways, each with their own quirks, and this I could tell just from the emails, in the way they wrote, and honestly, kudos to the author for accomplishing that so well. Writing in different voices has got to be a challenge.

Once Brodie was introduced, I especially liked all of the references to The Lord of the Rings and to other books and movies like You've Got Mail. It was great reading a book where the main characters love books so much and keep quoting favourite passages to each other like it's a totally normal thing to do.

The second half of the book I found much easier to read as Izzy and Brodie had met by that point and there was a lot more text that wasn't texts or emails. It was great getting to really see inside their minds and thoughts when Brodie was visiting Izzy and when Izzy was visiting Brodie. Also that Eli guy? My gosh, get the hint dude!

So while you go and read this book now, I'm off to watch You've Got Mail (for the first time).

First, I have to say that I've loved every book I 've read by Pepper Basham...and I did love this too. I just didn't love the epistolary form of writing. Even though I was quite engaged in the story between Izzy and Brodie and totally fell in love with Skymar I felt like it took me forever to read Authentically Izzy. However, that being said, I shall continue to read Positively, Penelope and Loyally Luke because I must know what happens to these siblings! I can't wait to go back to Skymar as well!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 15 November 2022.

I tried really hard to get into this book but I just couldn’t. Reading the passages of the Lord of the Rings inspired book were confusing and unneeded. I had a hard time believing their romance throughout the book. Not my favorite.

Thank you to the publisher for allowing me advance access to this title. I really enjoyed reading this story and look forward to reading more from this author. As a reader, I am really motivated by character driven stories and I found myself quickly becoming immersed in these characters’ lives. Full review to come.

I am a sucker for an epistolary romance and you don't see it as often these days. This story is told via emails and text messages which can sometimes be annoying in a book but in this case it worked to drive the story. I also liked the multiple pop culture and literary references.

I requested this without realising it was a Christian love story which is not my usual jam. Though the story was cute and the characters interesting, it was way to churchy and conservative for my taste. DNF'ed.

Title: Authentically Izzy

Author: Pepper D Basham


Pg: 415


Series: Skymar 1


Genre: Christian Rom Com


Rating: 5 stars


Publisher: Thomas Nelson


Authentically Izzy by Pepper D Basham is a rom com that is written in emails, letters and texts. As well as standard novel format. It’s also one they I listened to as well as read. I listened to the first half because it helped to make the emails and letters make sense. While reading the second half.


Izzy was an easy character to relate to. As a fellow book worm. But what made me love Izzy the most is that she had my career as a library assistant. That is the first time, I’ve ever seen it as a career in books let alone a rom com. For readers who don’t like love triangle there’s hints of one in the book, but it is only a hint. While most readers will easily fall for the guy Izzy’s falling for. But not me, I was falling for Izzy’s cousin Luke. What can I say I love a guy in flannel with a southern accent.


I enjoyed Authentically Izzy but I am looking forward to the next two, especially Luke’s story.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Alas, I really couldn't get into this one. I liked the idea but couldn't get past about 25% unfortunately, and I struggled with the e-mails and texts vibes. Thank you for the opportunity to read it, , however, and I really appreciate being given a copy.

I sadly didn’t get around to reading this before it expired. The title and first page I did read intrigued me so I am going to try and find a time to read this one. Thank you NetGallery for the ARC and the opportunity, I’m sad that I didn’t get to giving it my full attention but know it has potential to be amazing!