I ended up reading this book in one sitting which tells you how much I enjoyed it! I found myself smiling throughout the conversations because of how real it felt

This is a delightful fit for readers who adore lighthearted, humorous, and hopeful stories about family, romance, and self-discovery, with a touch of whimsy and a strong, optimistic heroine who will charm her way into their hearts.

Positively, Penelope

by Pepper Basham

I wondered if Pepper Basham would follow up the very bookish epistolary novel Authentically, Izzy with another epistolary novel. If so, could it be as good, as fun, as the first? How do you write an epistolary novel in the twenty-first century anyway, a time when letter writing for personal reasons is rare? Basham continues her humorous style with Positively, Penelope told mainly in emails and text messages between Penelope who has taken a job as an intern helping the marketing team in the country of Skymar and her brother and two sisters who live in the Appalachians. There is also some third person narration thrown in. As a drama major, a very dramatic teacher of elementary age children, and a lover of storytelling and princesses, I can identify so much with Penelope who attacks life with more gusto than I can dream of mustering!

Penelope is trying to rescue the dying Darling House, a theater whose owners and managers lost their spirit with the deaths of the mother and grandmother over a short span of time. Penelope with her positive attitude spreads joy wherever she goes with her smiles, singing, and creativity. Two brothers, Matt and Alec, are grumpy but could make romantic heroes in the story as they fall under Penelope’s spell along with their father, Grandpa Gray. Matt’s daughter Iris who has not been allowed to enjoy fairy tales blooms under Penelope’s friendship as they share a love of pink and princesses. While Penelope seems like cotton candy fluff, she is actually quite bright. Unfortunately, every idea she comes up with is stolen by a rival theater; it seems a mole has invaded the Darling House team.

Silliness, suspicion, fear of sea monsters, a cute seven year old, costumes, royalty, creativity, and clean romance make Positively, Penelope a fun novel; I’m packing my bag for Skymar right now.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rating: 5/5

Category: Romance, Fiction, Christian

Notes: 1. #2 in the Skymar series. It could be read as a standalone, but I wouldn’t want you to pass up the very bookish first novel, Authentically, Izzy.
2. a lot of humor as the siblings banter with each other
3. Christian undertones woven subtly into the book
4. #3 has already been published about the flannel wearing, bachelor brother in the family, Loyally, Luke

Publication: August 1, 2023—Thomas Nelson

Memorable Lines:

But no wonder he’s grumpy. Anyone who is against fairy-tale talk, singing in public, dancing on the sidewalk, and general hat-wearing has to be a sad sort of person.

Because story is the key to what we bring to the stage, how we present ourselves online, and even how we engage with one another. We all have stories, but in our hearts, we all LOVE stories (even if it takes some of us longer to admit it…kind of like a smile. Some people need more encouragement to smile than others, but you should really know a smile makes all the difference).

He came up to me, dismounted, and shot me this dazzling smile before saying, “I’ve always wanted to rescue a damsel in distress, but I never realized one would be so lovely in the rain.” Heaven HELP ME! Who says stuff like that? Only Skymarian men who ride on white horses in the rain????

This had some cute moments! I also appreciated that this story was clean.

What stops me from rating it higher though is that the writing style wasn't always my thing. The epistolary parts the majority of the book, and for the first third of the book or so, I assumed that the book was going to be all emails and texts. Penelope's style of writing was just too chaotic for me, and I could never follow what was happening. I enjoyed the book much more once it switched to more 3rd person chapters.

Penelope Edgewood arrives in Skymar for an internship at the century-old Darling House Theater which could use some help revitalizing its image and getting people back in the seats. She's a ball of unending positivity and sunshine that instantly clashes with one of the owners' closed-off personality. Matt Gray has a reason for wanting to protect his and his daughter's hearts, but Penelope's bright sunshine makes it hard to keep her at bay especially when she brings laughter and light back into all the Gray's lives. Yet it's not all happy times at the theater, and Penelope will have to work hard if she wants a HEA for her and the theater.

This one gets forward-leaning 3.5 stars because it took me a while to warm up to Penelope and her peppy, super positive vibe never meshed with me, but I liked the story overall. I really think that if Penelope had been dialed down a tiny bit, this one would have been one of my top clean romance reads of the year. There's just something about her unrelenting pepiness that I found tiring.

The story itself is sweet and has some great moments not just between Matt and Penelope but with other characters as well. It's very well-rounded in keeping the story moving by introducing characters at the right moment and continuing to use them accordingly. I like the Gray family and the situation with the Darling House Theater would have made an excellent read on its own, it's just extra nice that it has a sweet romance at the center of it.

Happy thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the sunshine read!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.

*I received a free e-copy of this book. A big thank you to the publisher and JustRead Tours! All thoughts and opinions are my own!*

Let me first start by saying, this was just such a fun read! From the plot, to the characters, to all the fun, pop culture references, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Going into this one, I did not realize Positively, Penelope was a sequel. So, I admit, I was a bit confused trying to figure out who all the characters were at first. Once I got that down, however, I really enjoyed this one. I do plan to read book one, Authentically, Izzy, which is about Penelope’s cousin, at some point to see if there was anything I missed out on. That being said, it was clear that this book, while a sequel, was still very much its own, independent story.

With most of the book written in texts and emails, I found the format to be so enjoyable and it really helped the characters come to life and feel personal to me. By the end of the novel, I truly felt like an old friend was writing to me about the details of their life. The characters are truly the best part of this novel! I loved how uplifting and positive Penelope was. I found little Iris to be so adorable as well and found Penelope sneaking princess things into her life to be so funny. I love the grumpy-sunshine trope that Matt and Penelope bring to this story. They are now one of my favorite couples who fall under that trope.

Overall, Positively, Penelope was such an endearing read. If you’re a fan of closed-door romances or are simply looking for a book that will boost your mood and make you smile, this is the book for you!

I have come to love epistolary novels with texts, letters, emails, chats, etc. It makes for a fun and quick read and also provides variety from the normal styles I read. This story has a great setting, strong characters and was a fun read overall. I missed the first book in this series and I will be going back to read that one as well!

Authentically, Izzy, Pepper Basham's first book in her Skymar series, set me up with some pretty high hopes for Positively, Penelope, book #2 and I was NOT disappointed!!! I loved all of the references and quotes from Audrey Hepburn, and the total fan-girling over Julie Andrews. Add in some Gene Kelly and Singing in the Rain, and you have a wonderfully nostalgic character in Penelope.

Fresh out of college, Penelope Edgewood is offered an internship at a historic, family-owned theater in the tiny country of Skymar. She is enchanted with the history of the theater, even though it has gotten pretty run down since the death of its founder. As she brings her positive outlook to the job, the people's attitudes begin to change. Her ideas show promise, and new life for the theater, but someone in their ranks is out to sabotage the re-opening. Her ideas keep being appropriated by their biggest competitor, from her ad campaigns right down to stealing a touring theatre troupe to perform "The Sound of Music" that she not only found, but arranged to bring into Skymar.

Matt and Alex Gray are the brothers in charge of the theatre now, but their grandfather is the man who owns it. Matt's daughter immediately falls in love with Penelope, but it takes Matt much longer. Alex is supposedly on the road most of the time "promoting" the theatre, but he makes time to take Penelope out to lunch to listen to her ideas for the theatre. Grandpa Gray is a reclusive older man who lost his enthusiasm for the theatre when his wife died. Could Penelope be the spark that brings the Gray men back to the theatre that has been a huge part of their family?

I loved Penelope and her practically encyclopedic knowledge of all things Julie Andrews, and Audrey Hepburn. She dresses in skirts everywhere she goes, and once she learns how, she rides her bike everywhere on the island. She carries a "Mary Poppins" bag that has every conceivable emergency fixer upper item inside. While she's not "practically perfect in every way" like Mary Poppins, she is practically positive in every situation, which is just as good.

I enjoyed listening to this through my Libby app. Since it is written as a series of emails and texts between characters, it was much easier to tell who was speaking/writing at any given time when I could hear their voices. I highly recommend the audio versions of both Authentically, Izzy, and Positively, Penelope. I look forward to listening to Loyally, Luke when it comes out.

Readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a lot of giggles should pick up both books in this series! I loved them!

“All the world is made of faith, trust, and pixie dust.” ~ Peter Pan

Be still my heart!! Positively, Penelope is an absolutely delightful read for theater enthusiasts and rom-com aficionados! From its clever musical and movie references to its engaging storytelling style, this book hooked me from start to finish!

“I’m beginning to realize that it’s okay just to be happy and try to spread that happiness around.” ~ Pepper Basham

After enjoying Authentically, Izzy, book one of the Skymar trilogy, but being disappointed by the lack of faith in the storyline, this second installment was the perfect blend of everything I look for in a Christian contemporary novel!! Positively, Penelope wasn’t about chasing after your heart; it was an exploration of family, life’s purpose, and redemption. God hears our prayers and knows our hearts, and when we trust Him to lead us to the right path, He will work it all out in His perfect timing!

“There is something special about belonging somewhere. It’s an indefinable sort of something, but when you are away from it for a little while, you know.” ~ Pepper Basham

The blend of romance, humor, suspense, and mystery found within the pages of Positively, Penelope was flawlessly executed. Each element contributed to a truly engaging storyline with witty banter and MANY laugh-out-loud moments. The nods to Chris Pine and Julie Andrews added an extra layer of charm, while the exploration of faith and forgiveness brought surprising depth to this light-hearted narrative.

“The biggest dreams are the ones that take the most risk, but they’re worth it, Iris. You may just have to make it through the hard things first.” ~ Pepper Basham

The characters were a fabulous ensemble! Penelope’s fiery personality and determination to make the impossible possible made me instantly adore her. Matthias was the handsome grump who stole my heart after a few chapters. And Luke was the ultimate big brother and the perfect balance between his sisters’ eccentrics; I can’t wait to read his story next!

“Your ‘hair looks beautiful in the moonlight’? (Do girls really want guys to say things like that?) How does your hair look the rest of the time?” ~ Pepper Basham

Positively, Penelope was not just a romance; it was a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and second chances. Pepper Basham’s writing was exceptional! From emails and texts to actual storytelling, the mixed styles were an excellent blend that captured my attention and heart. Positively, Penelope earned its place among my top five favorite books; it’s the book version of my favorite pick-me-up rom-com movies that I will revisit time and again.

“The world could do with a little more kindness and positivity and random acts of singing, don’t you think?” ~ Pepper Basham

If you’re looking for a heartwarming rom-com with a touch of theater magic, look no further than Positively, Penelope. It’s practically perfect in every way. 😉

*Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for providing me with a pre-release copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.*

My many thanks to the Author, Publisher, and NetGalley, for an ARC of this book!

I actually finished this book last year, I just didn’t realize I hadn’t put a review up for it yet. I found by the end my interest was waning, but before then it was okay. I really enjoyed all the Broadway and Musical references. While I definitely enjoyed Book 1 more, I am looking forward to reading Luke’s story. As always the Text and Email format is the best thing ever! 2.5 Stars.

Mostly clean, except for some detailed kisses, later into the book. (ie, running hands threw hair while kissing, kissing someone’s neck, feeling the rush, heat and warmth, wondering what it would be like to have them all to themselves, and to take it farther than kissing [no details] ) a couple looks for alone time to go kiss, including hiding in the hall closet.

I started this book but I didn't finish it. It didn't hold my attention enough to overcome the list of other books I wanted to read.

I so enjoyed another chance to spend time with Penelope & her family! While I didn’t enjoy this quite as much as the first book, I did really enjoy the romance between Penelope & Matt.

Penelope’s personality & optimism simply rub off on the reader, and it was such a delight to watch her find her own fairytale ending. I adore the grumpy/sunshine trope, so even though I preferred the bookish nature of Authentically, Izzy, I think as a whole, I enjoyed Penelope’s romance story more. It definitely had me swooning!

I think that my only complaint with these books so far is that they FEEL very long, especially considering their epistolary nature. I didn’t find either book to be difficult to read exactly, but I do think that the plot here could have been pared down. I will also say that even though I don’t know much about theater, I didn’t find that to hinder my reading experience.

Overall, I’m so glad I had another opportunity to spend time with the Edgewood siblings and to watch as Penelope found her own happy ending. I’m so excited to read Luke’s story next because he is my favorite sibling! I’d definitely recommend this book (and this series!) if you’re looking for a sweet, humorous Christian romance!

Sometimes books that only communicate via email/text get annoying. It's hard to keep track on who's sending the emails.

Just not for me.

Positively Penelope is positively delicious, positively delightful. I cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed this book!! Pepper Basham is a consummate storyteller and this book is on the top of my list!

When I “met” Penelope in the first book, I found her rather slow on the uptake. I thought perhaps she was a little ditzy. I wasn’t sure where Basham was going to go with her character, but I knew it would be an adventure. Well, I absolutely love Penelope. She is kind and sweet, feminine, and lovely. When Basham refers to her as a pixie, it is perfection. Add in the two very different Gray brothers who vie for her affection, a precious young girl, a cast of interesting secondary characters, and an old theater and you have a novel that will keep you from whatever else you need to be doing!

Basham deals with some difficult subjects in this book such as grief and deception, but she is so gentle in her treatment that I was uplifted reading even the hard parts. I let with a feeling of encouragement and hope.

Told both in epistolary and narrative form, this story is charming! I highly recommend this wonderful book.

I had a hard time reading this one because the file was formatted weird BUT I finally got through it and I’m so glad I did. The book was cute! Penelope is a great FMC; she’s definitely the friend that’s “a lot”, but she’s still someone you wanna root for.

My biggest gripe was that the writing style is all over the place. Sometimes it’s straight forward writing others it’s in email form. It was a little tough to get through considering this is a long book but I still enjoyed it.

Penelope is a fun character. You can’t help but love her. I also really like her family. The romance is fun and sweet. I really like Penelope and Matt together. The story is well crafted and takes the reader on a great journey. I highly recommend this book.

Positively, Penelope follows Authentically, Izzy. This novel tells us Izzy's sister-cousin Penelope's story as she moves to Skymar for an internship and tries her (enthusiastic) best to save a failing family theatre from a dismal ending . Of course, this story wouldn't be complete without the grumpy in the grumpy-sunshine trope. Enter the broody Matthias Gray and his precocious daughter, Iris.

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, and eagerly awaited Positively, Penelope. Like Authentically, Izzy, this one was written largely in the epistolary style with sections of in-real-time towards the end. I'll admit I struggled to connect with Penelope's character for much of the book, but appreciated her sunny disposition, work ethic, and ever optimistic attitude despite the challenges she faced. I loved seeing her gently coax Matthias out of his shell and help him find joy in life once again. Her commitment to helping the family theatre and re-involving Grandpa Gray in the daily production was beautiful. Grandpa Gray and Iris were definitely some of my favourite characters and really added to the book.

Although this wasn't a 5 star read for me, I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to reading Luke's story. If you enjoy epistolary novels and sweet romance with epic kisses and rom-com moments, you won't want to miss this one!

*I received a complimentary copy of Positively Penelope through the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

This book hangs on the reader connecting with Penelope. She's definitely one of a kind and honestly a little over the top. She has her loves and tends to speak in caps and exclamation points. Although I wasn't sure if I'd love her, the grumpy/sunshine relationship with Matt really worked for me. Sometimes the grumpy male stuff comes off as eye-rolling, but I loved that the author gave Matt a back story that made his mood make sense. Very cute clean read.

I loved this story so much! Penelope travels to Skymar to help save a family theater and looking for an epic adventure. While there, she discovers a lot about herself while she navigates a family that has gotten lost in their grief, faces big decisions, and finds herself thwarted by a potential spy within her midst! I enjoyed getting to revisit Skymar, as well as, Penelope and her siblings. Penelope's character absolutely delighted me with her joy and caring heart that sought to better the lives of those around her. I enjoyed getting to revisit favorite plays and musicals through her love for the theater. I thought her journey was so well written, and could definitely identify with her battling dreams for her life that I feel like we all tend to face as we grow up and decide where we feel like the Lord is leading us with careers and life decisions. The romance sparkled and the family she found overseas was so heart warming. This is one of my favorite reads this year! I hope you love it as much as I did!
"I'm a living example of the unexpected becoming the best decision of my life."
"And I want someone for the ever-after part, when the audience is gone and the stage is empty, and the only crowd we're in front of is each other."
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.